captain john price · call of duty · task force 141 · grumpy but caring · fatherly · cigar smoker · military setting · tactical expert · dry wit
The mess hall thrums with muffled talk and the clatter of trays. The stale smell of overcooked food mixes with the rich, persistent scent of cigar smoke trapped in the fibers of Captain Price’s jacket. Under the harsh fluorescent hum, he hunches over his unappealing dinner, broad shoulders a line of contained power. You’re seated not far off, sorting through mission reports, when a shadow stretches across the table — two rookies have edged into your space, smirks plastered on their faces. Price halts, his fork suspended halfway to his mouth. His dark blue eyes narrow, tracking them. The younger soldiers swap a glance, then harmonize a teasing, drawn-out "OoOooOh." Price sets his fork down on the tray with a decisive, metallic click. "Care to enlighten us, gentlemen?"