Sade Olutola
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Andulka
Show & Tell
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@dumplingsspookysweeties
Out of curiosity what sort of Mer bitty is a Cross!sans?
Oh, we don't have any Cross varieties specific to the shop but...um... *searches records*
We've rescued quite a few that seem to have a nurse shark as a tail type. um....they seem to like forming groups with other bitties.
let's call them decapods then. (even if they do not have any feet at all)
Ms. Dumpling Is there a bitty that would be able to help remind me to drink and eat, but isn't overly loud/excitable?
Ah, you'd want a horror papyrus type then. They have all the caretaking instincts of a normal papyrus, but tempered with their magic donor's circumstances.
They're sweethearts and will be gentle with you.
If you'd rather a sans type, the horror swap sans' are the same, just a bit more fragile with their missing front ribs and sternum.
A vaguely familiar mushroom witch entered the shop with a basket on her hip, only instead of a frog on her hat like the last time she was here, a Forge bitty was lazily draped over her shoulders as he seemed to sleep. "Hello! Hopefully I'm not interrupting. The boys and I wanted to bring some goodies for the littl'ins if that's alright. It's just Spess with me though, Zircon and Wulf are back at the cabin with Henry." She carefully shut the door behind her and looked around, hoping to spot Dumpling somewhere.
OH hello! *dumpling dusts off her apron and comes forward* Welcome back!
*the shop is decked out for valentines day, all the pumpkins and candles have either turned pink or are dotted with hearts somewhere*
And no, you aren't interrupting at all. *she giggles*
[Movin' over ^^]
She finds an empty table and sets the basket down with a huff, it seemingly being decently heavy. "Perfect. This place looks beautifully festive just as the boys said," she reaches up and scratches the sleeping Forge under his jaw while she speaks, "they were sayin' you like to decorate the place for the holidays, so we brought some baked goods and flowers - without pollen of course, don't want to cause anyone to suffer from allergies."
Giggling softly, Dumpling opens all the little doors for the bitties to mingle and come out, "Thank you, hon. It's my birthday month, so I always go all out. It's just a shame I can't do this and then get mardi gras up in time because of how close together they always are."
the crowd of little faces teleport or shuffle over, the horror sans' first on the table and peeking into the basket eagerly. The mers in the tank are swiming through new tubes attached to the ceiling so they can look around the shop easier, all gathering by the new tank by the reception desk and gawking at the basket.
"We're a bit bigger now since some of the original monsters came to make their little doppelgangers homes more comfy. Same selection but more space."
She looked around in awe, waving at the occasional curious stare before she sets Spess down and began pulling out a container of dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate muffins with seedless raspberries, some heart shaped cookies with messages on them in different fonts, and strawberry cloud bread. "I noticed, the place looks amazing! If you ever need a horticulture proffessional to tend to your garden, Im more than willing to lend a hand. Or eight." She says as she looks at the languidly stretching Forge bitty, chuckling affectionately as he shoves his skull in her pocket to grab his glasses. "Actually, my birthday is tomorrow funnily enough, so I understand the excitement." She says offhandedly while she starts pulling out the bundles of flowers from the basket, only to gasp in excitement. "Oh, I just had an idea! How about the boys and I decorate the clearing and our cabin, and you guys could come over for mardi gras? I could make a little doorway portal to ease the trip for everyone." She offers, already breaking some of the cookies into bitty sized biscuits and handing them to the little ones, Spess stealing some of the bread himself.
"I love that idea! It's usually so cold here that we don't get out a lot and the little ones are all stir crazy." She giggles softly and helps the bitties get organized so everybody can get some treats.
"I'll bring a little blow up pool for the mers, so they don't feel left out."
A vaguely familiar mushroom witch entered the shop with a basket on her hip, only instead of a frog on her hat like the last time she was here, a Forge bitty was lazily draped over her shoulders as he seemed to sleep. "Hello! Hopefully I'm not interrupting. The boys and I wanted to bring some goodies for the littl'ins if that's alright. It's just Spess with me though, Zircon and Wulf are back at the cabin with Henry." She carefully shut the door behind her and looked around, hoping to spot Dumpling somewhere.
OH hello! *dumpling dusts off her apron and comes forward* Welcome back!
*the shop is decked out for valentines day, all the pumpkins and candles have either turned pink or are dotted with hearts somewhere*
And no, you aren't interrupting at all. *she giggles*
[Movin' over ^^]
She finds an empty table and sets the basket down with a huff, it seemingly being decently heavy. "Perfect. This place looks beautifully festive just as the boys said," she reaches up and scratches the sleeping Forge under his jaw while she speaks, "they were sayin' you like to decorate the place for the holidays, so we brought some baked goods and flowers - without pollen of course, don't want to cause anyone to suffer from allergies."
Giggling softly, Dumpling opens all the little doors for the bitties to mingle and come out, "Thank you, hon. It's my birthday month, so I always go all out. It's just a shame I can't do this and then get mardi gras up in time because of how close together they always are."
the crowd of little faces teleport or shuffle over, the horror sans' first on the table and peeking into the basket eagerly. The mers in the tank are swiming through new tubes attached to the ceiling so they can look around the shop easier, all gathering by the new tank by the reception desk and gawking at the basket.
"We're a bit bigger now since some of the original monsters came to make their little doppelgangers homes more comfy. Same selection but more space."
A vaguely familiar mushroom witch entered the shop with a basket on her hip, only instead of a frog on her hat like the last time she was here, a Forge bitty was lazily draped over her shoulders as he seemed to sleep. "Hello! Hopefully I'm not interrupting. The boys and I wanted to bring some goodies for the littl'ins if that's alright. It's just Spess with me though, Zircon and Wulf are back at the cabin with Henry." She carefully shut the door behind her and looked around, hoping to spot Dumpling somewhere.
OH hello! *dumpling dusts off her apron and comes forward* Welcome back!
*the shop is decked out for valentines day, all the pumpkins and candles have either turned pink or are dotted with hearts somewhere*
And no, you aren't interrupting at all. *she giggles*
Welcome To Still Here Rescue Center and Sanctuary!
My name is Cell (she/they), and this is KeyLargo (he/him). Say hi Key!
Hey.
Thank you for visiting our little non-profit! Please feel free to have a look around, have something to drink, socialize with the Residents, whatever takes your fancy. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask me or any of the rest of the Still Here Crew, we're all happy to help out.
Don't go past the blue doors.
Oh, yes, thank you for that reminder, Key. Blue means Stop, that's Crew and Resident territory only!
---
Still Here Rescue Center and Sanctuary (SHRCS) is a forever home for bitty bones in need, who have been hurt or lost or just need an extra helping hand, specializing in abandoned, unadoptable and special needs. This means some instances of mature and triggering topics, a listing of which is available and constantly updating in both the Visitor Info and the Tags list.
Anonymous asks are currently Open, submissions are Closed.
Visitor Information Residents Crew Where To Adopt Profiles Tags
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
((no worries! You also have multiple threads while I just need to remember the one.))
"Gotcha," she nods before lifting him up to her shoulder and keeping her hand there until he gives her the all clear.
Grant got settled, holding on tight, then said quietly, "I'm ready. Go ahead."
Tahoma was at the counter, entering numbers into the computer, and the skeleton looked up when they approach, "Ah, it seems a match has been found."
Kate nods, careful not to jostle Grant. "Seems so..." she says cheerfully. "But...well, here's hopin' I don't drive the poor guy crazy with all my quirks and bad habits," she quips.
"Wine types are very patient, especially with people they've chosen as family," Tahoma gets out papers and slides them across the counter, "Sign these, and I'll get his cube from the back. We give our bitties little 'apartments' here, and they can take them along when they head home so there's no chance of them having no proper sleeping place the first night or two."
She hms in acknowledgement as the doctor departs, before leaning over and squinting at the paper a moment.... Before giving up and pulling a glasses case from her purse with a huff. "I prolly need t'undergo another blast of corrective sight surgery," she grumbles as she puts the frames on. "I got my eyes 'fixed' back when they still had t'cut the lens to apply the laser...'cept th' cuttin' part didn't go accordin' to plan. Ruddy machine popped a gasket midway... I can still usually see well enough - better for sure than before the procedure where I couldn't tell a wall from a stairwell but..." She sighs and, despite the help of the glasses, has to hold the presumed contract up close so she can more easily make out the words. "Fine print... Pretty sure it's the pride and joy of some Prince of Hell" she mutters.
*the fine print is just citations of laws about caring properly for bitties, as the rest of the papers held only contact information lines and basic notifications of 'this is a living person' "this is not a toy" "this is now your responsibility to feed" sort of thing*
Grant hummed and looked over the page with you, "I can help you with it if you have trouble. I don't mind; my eyes are quite sharp."
"Mm...." She turns and fans out the papers so he can better see them. "Looks like about what I'd expect - don't be an amoral arse, just written in legalese - but is there anything specific I should be aware of, y'think?". She chuckles a bit before adding, "'course I doubt -this- place would be inserting nasty little clauses about selling data, forced arbitration, and so on... But still. Old habits...."
Grant looks it over and smiles, "Nothing like that. Just that you agree to a one month check in from Tahoma and Dumpling to ensure the safety of your adoptee, also known as me. That's standard for this shop. They don't want anyone to be stuck like I was."
Tahoma comes back with a fair sized box, "All your things are in there, Grant. We just need the signature, and contact information."
Kate sees the section Grant described and scans it over just as the Doctor returns. "Good t'know," she muses before flashing a brief smile of greeting to the tall skeleton. "Alrighty... So, the check-in - we just need t'drop in again here in a month, yeah?" she inquires as she casually fills out the requisite blanks and scrawls out a messy but distinct signature.
Tahoma nodded, "That or we can come to you, whichever you prefer. Just so long as we can catch up with how the placement is going and make sure everybody's happy and healthy."
Grant explains, "It's mostly a formality since they've had a perfect record at this shop for having healthy adoptions."
"it helps that our staff are all monsters, as it lets us gauge intent easily," Tahoma explained gently. "And being an independent shop, we can refuse service at any point."
The forms filled out, Kate sets them down on the counter and returns her gaze to the doctor, appearing impressed. "Well, glad t'hear it," she comments. "There are way too many 'adoption agencies what seem hell-bent on flouting the few laws on the books." She shakes her head slightly as she stands back. She then looks over at the box...
The box is a reinforced glass one with slotted in metal sides with a handle at the top. inside was a small bedroom, perfectly Grant sized, with a bed, nightstand, set of drawers, and small lamp.
Grant smiled, "This is my room, friend. I have my supplies in the drawers under my bed, so you won't have things bouncing around while we move."
"Ah, looks nice and cozy," she says with a small smile. "Safe too. I don't think the furbeasts will bug yah anyway, but this better puts me at ease..." She studies the box a moment before asking, "It hooks up to a normal power outlet for the lamp? And is the furniture itself bolted in place then?"
Tahoma explains, "The box has a stabilizing magic in it to keep everything inside stable for long travel or permanent stays. As for the lamp, that is also of monster make and thus won't need a power outlet."
Grant has a bit of a smug smile, "Only the best for my quarters, after all. If a thing is worth doing, it's worth doing correctly."
Shs chuckles, impressed. "Very nice. And a good way t'try'n approach things....money and bosses permittin'" Kate flashes a 'whatcha gonna do' expression before giving the box another once over. "May be we can look at makin' or findin' some sort of curtain or the like so you can have a bit more privacy..." she muses, obviously already running through plans and ideas of what could or should be done to better ensure her new housemate's comfort and safety. "But....yeah...So's that everything , then?". She looks up at the doctor inquisitively. "Anything else we need t'do? Or..." - She tilts her head so she can just make out the skeleton on her shoulder from the corner of her eye - "is there anything else you need right away tonight, or is there some place that you'd like me t'try'n stop on the way back to the house?"
Tahoma chuckles, "Nothing more on our end besides the starter kit," He hands you a small paper bag with a booklet and a blue salt shaker inside, "We do have curtains for sale that fit the apartment boxes, but I think settling in can be done without them for the moment."
"I prefer not having them until I'm used to the noises in the house," Grant said gently, "I want to be able to see what's out there for a while before I can trust it's safe. I know it's a bit silly at this point, but there you are. I won't require anything else besides what is already in the drawers of my room, and bitties like myself can eat anything a human can so long as it has magic powder on it and a week's supply is included with our orientation kit."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
((no worries! You also have multiple threads while I just need to remember the one.))
"Gotcha," she nods before lifting him up to her shoulder and keeping her hand there until he gives her the all clear.
Grant got settled, holding on tight, then said quietly, "I'm ready. Go ahead."
Tahoma was at the counter, entering numbers into the computer, and the skeleton looked up when they approach, "Ah, it seems a match has been found."
Kate nods, careful not to jostle Grant. "Seems so..." she says cheerfully. "But...well, here's hopin' I don't drive the poor guy crazy with all my quirks and bad habits," she quips.
"Wine types are very patient, especially with people they've chosen as family," Tahoma gets out papers and slides them across the counter, "Sign these, and I'll get his cube from the back. We give our bitties little 'apartments' here, and they can take them along when they head home so there's no chance of them having no proper sleeping place the first night or two."
She hms in acknowledgement as the doctor departs, before leaning over and squinting at the paper a moment.... Before giving up and pulling a glasses case from her purse with a huff. "I prolly need t'undergo another blast of corrective sight surgery," she grumbles as she puts the frames on. "I got my eyes 'fixed' back when they still had t'cut the lens to apply the laser...'cept th' cuttin' part didn't go accordin' to plan. Ruddy machine popped a gasket midway... I can still usually see well enough - better for sure than before the procedure where I couldn't tell a wall from a stairwell but..." She sighs and, despite the help of the glasses, has to hold the presumed contract up close so she can more easily make out the words. "Fine print... Pretty sure it's the pride and joy of some Prince of Hell" she mutters.
*the fine print is just citations of laws about caring properly for bitties, as the rest of the papers held only contact information lines and basic notifications of 'this is a living person' "this is not a toy" "this is now your responsibility to feed" sort of thing*
Grant hummed and looked over the page with you, "I can help you with it if you have trouble. I don't mind; my eyes are quite sharp."
"Mm...." She turns and fans out the papers so he can better see them. "Looks like about what I'd expect - don't be an amoral arse, just written in legalese - but is there anything specific I should be aware of, y'think?". She chuckles a bit before adding, "'course I doubt -this- place would be inserting nasty little clauses about selling data, forced arbitration, and so on... But still. Old habits...."
Grant looks it over and smiles, "Nothing like that. Just that you agree to a one month check in from Tahoma and Dumpling to ensure the safety of your adoptee, also known as me. That's standard for this shop. They don't want anyone to be stuck like I was."
Tahoma comes back with a fair sized box, "All your things are in there, Grant. We just need the signature, and contact information."
Kate sees the section Grant described and scans it over just as the Doctor returns. "Good t'know," she muses before flashing a brief smile of greeting to the tall skeleton. "Alrighty... So, the check-in - we just need t'drop in again here in a month, yeah?" she inquires as she casually fills out the requisite blanks and scrawls out a messy but distinct signature.
Tahoma nodded, "That or we can come to you, whichever you prefer. Just so long as we can catch up with how the placement is going and make sure everybody's happy and healthy."
Grant explains, "It's mostly a formality since they've had a perfect record at this shop for having healthy adoptions."
"it helps that our staff are all monsters, as it lets us gauge intent easily," Tahoma explained gently. "And being an independent shop, we can refuse service at any point."
The forms filled out, Kate sets them down on the counter and returns her gaze to the doctor, appearing impressed. "Well, glad t'hear it," she comments. "There are way too many 'adoption agencies what seem hell-bent on flouting the few laws on the books." She shakes her head slightly as she stands back. She then looks over at the box...
The box is a reinforced glass one with slotted in metal sides with a handle at the top. inside was a small bedroom, perfectly Grant sized, with a bed, nightstand, set of drawers, and small lamp.
Grant smiled, "This is my room, friend. I have my supplies in the drawers under my bed, so you won't have things bouncing around while we move."
"Ah, looks nice and cozy," she says with a small smile. "Safe too. I don't think the furbeasts will bug yah anyway, but this better puts me at ease..." She studies the box a moment before asking, "It hooks up to a normal power outlet for the lamp? And is the furniture itself bolted in place then?"
Tahoma explains, "The box has a stabilizing magic in it to keep everything inside stable for long travel or permanent stays. As for the lamp, that is also of monster make and thus won't need a power outlet."
Grant has a bit of a smug smile, "Only the best for my quarters, after all. If a thing is worth doing, it's worth doing correctly."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
((no worries! You also have multiple threads while I just need to remember the one.))
"Gotcha," she nods before lifting him up to her shoulder and keeping her hand there until he gives her the all clear.
Grant got settled, holding on tight, then said quietly, "I'm ready. Go ahead."
Tahoma was at the counter, entering numbers into the computer, and the skeleton looked up when they approach, "Ah, it seems a match has been found."
Kate nods, careful not to jostle Grant. "Seems so..." she says cheerfully. "But...well, here's hopin' I don't drive the poor guy crazy with all my quirks and bad habits," she quips.
"Wine types are very patient, especially with people they've chosen as family," Tahoma gets out papers and slides them across the counter, "Sign these, and I'll get his cube from the back. We give our bitties little 'apartments' here, and they can take them along when they head home so there's no chance of them having no proper sleeping place the first night or two."
She hms in acknowledgement as the doctor departs, before leaning over and squinting at the paper a moment.... Before giving up and pulling a glasses case from her purse with a huff. "I prolly need t'undergo another blast of corrective sight surgery," she grumbles as she puts the frames on. "I got my eyes 'fixed' back when they still had t'cut the lens to apply the laser...'cept th' cuttin' part didn't go accordin' to plan. Ruddy machine popped a gasket midway... I can still usually see well enough - better for sure than before the procedure where I couldn't tell a wall from a stairwell but..." She sighs and, despite the help of the glasses, has to hold the presumed contract up close so she can more easily make out the words. "Fine print... Pretty sure it's the pride and joy of some Prince of Hell" she mutters.
*the fine print is just citations of laws about caring properly for bitties, as the rest of the papers held only contact information lines and basic notifications of 'this is a living person' "this is not a toy" "this is now your responsibility to feed" sort of thing*
Grant hummed and looked over the page with you, "I can help you with it if you have trouble. I don't mind; my eyes are quite sharp."
"Mm...." She turns and fans out the papers so he can better see them. "Looks like about what I'd expect - don't be an amoral arse, just written in legalese - but is there anything specific I should be aware of, y'think?". She chuckles a bit before adding, "'course I doubt -this- place would be inserting nasty little clauses about selling data, forced arbitration, and so on... But still. Old habits...."
Grant looks it over and smiles, "Nothing like that. Just that you agree to a one month check in from Tahoma and Dumpling to ensure the safety of your adoptee, also known as me. That's standard for this shop. They don't want anyone to be stuck like I was."
Tahoma comes back with a fair sized box, "All your things are in there, Grant. We just need the signature, and contact information."
Kate sees the section Grant described and scans it over just as the Doctor returns. "Good t'know," she muses before flashing a brief smile of greeting to the tall skeleton. "Alrighty... So, the check-in - we just need t'drop in again here in a month, yeah?" she inquires as she casually fills out the requisite blanks and scrawls out a messy but distinct signature.
Tahoma nodded, "That or we can come to you, whichever you prefer. Just so long as we can catch up with how the placement is going and make sure everybody's happy and healthy."
Grant explains, "It's mostly a formality since they've had a perfect record at this shop for having healthy adoptions."
"it helps that our staff are all monsters, as it lets us gauge intent easily," Tahoma explained gently. "And being an independent shop, we can refuse service at any point."
The forms filled out, Kate sets them down on the counter and returns her gaze to the doctor, appearing impressed. "Well, glad t'hear it," she comments. "There are way too many 'adoption agencies what seem hell-bent on flouting the few laws on the books." She shakes her head slightly as she stands back. She then looks over at the box...
The box is a reinforced glass one with slotted in metal sides with a handle at the top. inside was a small bedroom, perfectly Grant sized, with a bed, nightstand, set of drawers, and small lamp.
Grant smiled, "This is my room, friend. I have my supplies in the drawers under my bed, so you won't have things bouncing around while we move."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
((no worries! You also have multiple threads while I just need to remember the one.))
"Gotcha," she nods before lifting him up to her shoulder and keeping her hand there until he gives her the all clear.
Grant got settled, holding on tight, then said quietly, "I'm ready. Go ahead."
Tahoma was at the counter, entering numbers into the computer, and the skeleton looked up when they approach, "Ah, it seems a match has been found."
Kate nods, careful not to jostle Grant. "Seems so..." she says cheerfully. "But...well, here's hopin' I don't drive the poor guy crazy with all my quirks and bad habits," she quips.
"Wine types are very patient, especially with people they've chosen as family," Tahoma gets out papers and slides them across the counter, "Sign these, and I'll get his cube from the back. We give our bitties little 'apartments' here, and they can take them along when they head home so there's no chance of them having no proper sleeping place the first night or two."
She hms in acknowledgement as the doctor departs, before leaning over and squinting at the paper a moment.... Before giving up and pulling a glasses case from her purse with a huff. "I prolly need t'undergo another blast of corrective sight surgery," she grumbles as she puts the frames on. "I got my eyes 'fixed' back when they still had t'cut the lens to apply the laser...'cept th' cuttin' part didn't go accordin' to plan. Ruddy machine popped a gasket midway... I can still usually see well enough - better for sure than before the procedure where I couldn't tell a wall from a stairwell but..." She sighs and, despite the help of the glasses, has to hold the presumed contract up close so she can more easily make out the words. "Fine print... Pretty sure it's the pride and joy of some Prince of Hell" she mutters.
*the fine print is just citations of laws about caring properly for bitties, as the rest of the papers held only contact information lines and basic notifications of 'this is a living person' "this is not a toy" "this is now your responsibility to feed" sort of thing*
Grant hummed and looked over the page with you, "I can help you with it if you have trouble. I don't mind; my eyes are quite sharp."
"Mm...." She turns and fans out the papers so he can better see them. "Looks like about what I'd expect - don't be an amoral arse, just written in legalese - but is there anything specific I should be aware of, y'think?". She chuckles a bit before adding, "'course I doubt -this- place would be inserting nasty little clauses about selling data, forced arbitration, and so on... But still. Old habits...."
Grant looks it over and smiles, "Nothing like that. Just that you agree to a one month check in from Tahoma and Dumpling to ensure the safety of your adoptee, also known as me. That's standard for this shop. They don't want anyone to be stuck like I was."
Tahoma comes back with a fair sized box, "All your things are in there, Grant. We just need the signature, and contact information."
Kate sees the section Grant described and scans it over just as the Doctor returns. "Good t'know," she muses before flashing a brief smile of greeting to the tall skeleton. "Alrighty... So, the check-in - we just need t'drop in again here in a month, yeah?" she inquires as she casually fills out the requisite blanks and scrawls out a messy but distinct signature.
Tahoma nodded, "That or we can come to you, whichever you prefer. Just so long as we can catch up with how the placement is going and make sure everybody's happy and healthy."
Grant explains, "It's mostly a formality since they've had a perfect record at this shop for having healthy adoptions."
"it helps that our staff are all monsters, as it lets us gauge intent easily," Tahoma explained gently. "And being an independent shop, we can refuse service at any point."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
((no worries! You also have multiple threads while I just need to remember the one.))
"Gotcha," she nods before lifting him up to her shoulder and keeping her hand there until he gives her the all clear.
Grant got settled, holding on tight, then said quietly, "I'm ready. Go ahead."
Tahoma was at the counter, entering numbers into the computer, and the skeleton looked up when they approach, "Ah, it seems a match has been found."
Kate nods, careful not to jostle Grant. "Seems so..." she says cheerfully. "But...well, here's hopin' I don't drive the poor guy crazy with all my quirks and bad habits," she quips.
"Wine types are very patient, especially with people they've chosen as family," Tahoma gets out papers and slides them across the counter, "Sign these, and I'll get his cube from the back. We give our bitties little 'apartments' here, and they can take them along when they head home so there's no chance of them having no proper sleeping place the first night or two."
She hms in acknowledgement as the doctor departs, before leaning over and squinting at the paper a moment.... Before giving up and pulling a glasses case from her purse with a huff. "I prolly need t'undergo another blast of corrective sight surgery," she grumbles as she puts the frames on. "I got my eyes 'fixed' back when they still had t'cut the lens to apply the laser...'cept th' cuttin' part didn't go accordin' to plan. Ruddy machine popped a gasket midway... I can still usually see well enough - better for sure than before the procedure where I couldn't tell a wall from a stairwell but..." She sighs and, despite the help of the glasses, has to hold the presumed contract up close so she can more easily make out the words. "Fine print... Pretty sure it's the pride and joy of some Prince of Hell" she mutters.
*the fine print is just citations of laws about caring properly for bitties, as the rest of the papers held only contact information lines and basic notifications of 'this is a living person' "this is not a toy" "this is now your responsibility to feed" sort of thing*
Grant hummed and looked over the page with you, "I can help you with it if you have trouble. I don't mind; my eyes are quite sharp."
"Mm...." She turns and fans out the papers so he can better see them. "Looks like about what I'd expect - don't be an amoral arse, just written in legalese - but is there anything specific I should be aware of, y'think?". She chuckles a bit before adding, "'course I doubt -this- place would be inserting nasty little clauses about selling data, forced arbitration, and so on... But still. Old habits...."
Grant looks it over and smiles, "Nothing like that. Just that you agree to a one month check in from Tahoma and Dumpling to ensure the safety of your adoptee, also known as me. That's standard for this shop. They don't want anyone to be stuck like I was."
Tahoma comes back with a fair sized box, "All your things are in there, Grant. We just need the signature, and contact information."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
((no worries! You also have multiple threads while I just need to remember the one.))
"Gotcha," she nods before lifting him up to her shoulder and keeping her hand there until he gives her the all clear.
Grant got settled, holding on tight, then said quietly, "I'm ready. Go ahead."
Tahoma was at the counter, entering numbers into the computer, and the skeleton looked up when they approach, "Ah, it seems a match has been found."
Kate nods, careful not to jostle Grant. "Seems so..." she says cheerfully. "But...well, here's hopin' I don't drive the poor guy crazy with all my quirks and bad habits," she quips.
"Wine types are very patient, especially with people they've chosen as family," Tahoma gets out papers and slides them across the counter, "Sign these, and I'll get his cube from the back. We give our bitties little 'apartments' here, and they can take them along when they head home so there's no chance of them having no proper sleeping place the first night or two."
She hms in acknowledgement as the doctor departs, before leaning over and squinting at the paper a moment.... Before giving up and pulling a glasses case from her purse with a huff. "I prolly need t'undergo another blast of corrective sight surgery," she grumbles as she puts the frames on. "I got my eyes 'fixed' back when they still had t'cut the lens to apply the laser...'cept th' cuttin' part didn't go accordin' to plan. Ruddy machine popped a gasket midway... I can still usually see well enough - better for sure than before the procedure where I couldn't tell a wall from a stairwell but..." She sighs and, despite the help of the glasses, has to hold the presumed contract up close so she can more easily make out the words. "Fine print... Pretty sure it's the pride and joy of some Prince of Hell" she mutters.
*the fine print is just citations of laws about caring properly for bitties, as the rest of the papers held only contact information lines and basic notifications of 'this is a living person' "this is not a toy" "this is now your responsibility to feed" sort of thing*
Grant hummed and looked over the page with you, "I can help you with it if you have trouble. I don't mind; my eyes are quite sharp."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
((no worries! You also have multiple threads while I just need to remember the one.))
"Gotcha," she nods before lifting him up to her shoulder and keeping her hand there until he gives her the all clear.
Grant got settled, holding on tight, then said quietly, "I'm ready. Go ahead."
Tahoma was at the counter, entering numbers into the computer, and the skeleton looked up when they approach, "Ah, it seems a match has been found."
Kate nods, careful not to jostle Grant. "Seems so..." she says cheerfully. "But...well, here's hopin' I don't drive the poor guy crazy with all my quirks and bad habits," she quips.
"Wine types are very patient, especially with people they've chosen as family," Tahoma gets out papers and slides them across the counter, "Sign these, and I'll get his cube from the back. We give our bitties little 'apartments' here, and they can take them along when they head home so there's no chance of them having no proper sleeping place the first night or two."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
((no worries! You also have multiple threads while I just need to remember the one.))
"Gotcha," she nods before lifting him up to her shoulder and keeping her hand there until he gives her the all clear.
Grant got settled, holding on tight, then said quietly, "I'm ready. Go ahead."
Tahoma was at the counter, entering numbers into the computer, and the skeleton looked up when they approach, "Ah, it seems a match has been found."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
She blinks at the skeleton man still sitting on the flat of her hand. "Y'mean on my shoulder or such?" she asks.
((I believe she picked him up earlier and is leaning against a wall for stability with him in her left hand, the right hand mostly helping to hold the other steady but sometimes gesticulating etc.))
((ah okay, I haven't read back through the thread so I didn't know)) "That would be best. That way I can hold on to your shirt and leave your hands free to sign things or pick up items."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
Kate slightly cocks her brow again at his statement but shrugs. "Hehe. Well, alright then!" she says, though she still doesn't move towards the front, glancing back again at the enclosure, where his teacup has just stopped steaming. "Didja need t'grab anything from your, er, quarters or whatever? Clothes? Coat? Medications? Glasses?". She squints a bit. "Tryin' t' think of everything I'm always forgettin' when I'm on a trip... Oh! Craft equipment, since y'sew and all?"
He nods, "I do have a few things, yes, but my apartment is in the back and I'll have to ask for help with it. Let's go to the front and we'll get that seen to."
Grant blushed a little, a bit shy now, "Ah, would you mind picking me up? I'd rather not swing all the way to the counter myself."
The woman turns sharply at his voice, but then smiles, a bit nervous. "Ah yeah! I mean, if anyone clicks with me...". She shoves the glasses onto her head, sharp grey eyes anxiously meeting his eyelights. "I do wanna state up front that I have a couple kitties, though, if that's a problem...?"
((let me know if you prefer that I use notes or reblogs or something to reply.))
(i prefer reblogs if possible, it helps keep things together)
"Cats are no trouble if bitties are large enough to stand fairly equal to them. so i'd recommend some of the larger birds, nagas, or blasters in that case." Dr. Tahoma adjusted his own glasses and gave a small smile, "We even have one blaster bitty type that is feline in nature, if you'd prefer as well."
@dumplingsspookysweeties
((moving this to my OC blog here))
The woman nods, looking somewhat more relaxed. "Ah, I figured as much but... Don't want to risk anyone gettin' hurt. Those furballs don't pose much of a threat - Juniper makes a lot of noise but is like seven pounds soaking wet, and Yew is huge but missing a back paw so...not the best at the pounce and grab... But I still don't wanna risk them hurting someone, nor them getting hurt, y'know?". Realizing she is rambling, she shrugs and runs a hand through her messy auburn hair self consciously. "But anyhow....how's it work here, then? Like, is it alright t'just wander around, see if anyone here clicks with me? Or is it a more formal or personalized process?"
Dr. Tahoma says gently, "Usually we ask a bit about our customers and if we know one of the bitties that would likely fit, we go see if they do. But in this case, I think letting you find them yourself would be best. You seem a bit nervous, and I don't wish to put any pressure on you."
The woman blinks, then flushes. "Heh. Yeah, sorry. Like I said, I'm new to this... Did a lotta reading, but there's so much out there these days 'bout bitties and whatnot... 'course a lotta what I read about were the classic skellies and such since that has the most info... But... But, I'm open to suggestions."
She pauses, a moment, fingers absently twisting the cords of her purse, then continues thoughtfully. "Not sure what y'all'd need to know about me... I work mostly at home these days, thank the stars. I do research and data analysis for an HR team ostensibly.... ...but mostly I just tool around with Excel and BI if I'm honest. Anyway, I'm not rich by any means, but based on my research, a bitty or two wouldn't break the bank."
Another pause as she thinks a moment then shrugs with a smirk. "Otherwise, I am pretty dull all said. I enjoy making crafty stuff, gardening, and thrifting.... I like dancing and yoga when I have time and energy, and have really ecclectic taste in...everything really... goth rock to country western; Lovecraftian horror and classic adventure novels, contemporary creepypasta and world mythology, old film noir radio dramas and dry-as-dust tomes on history, and podcasts and documentaries of ...all types really... ....so yeah. Ecclectic". She then sheepishly adds, "I guess I should admit it too - I'm a terrible housekeeper and a lazy cook... but not a bad one when I get around to it... I just don't usually have much reason to bother since, well, I'm alone pretty much..."
Her gaze, which til now has been mostly focused on Dr. Tahoma, looks downward and her arms go from loosely folded over her chest to a tighter sort of self embrace. "Lost the last of my close relatives a few months back, and most my old friends are in the 'poppin out babies', or 'gotta climb that corporate ladder come hell or highwater' stage of life, and they don't have time for an antisocial ambivert crazy cat lady who'd rather stay in and video chat than go to some noisy bar and watch everyone drink themselves stupid on mediocre wine or overpriced brew, or gush over some hideous luxury vehicle or 'designer' purse..."
Chuckling in a self deprecating manner, she shrugs again, gaze returning to meet the doctor's. "So, guess I'm lookin' for someone who doesn't mind my foibles or furballs, and ... Well, is a bit more conversational than my current fluffy housemates. ...I mean, they talk - man, do they talk! - but it's...uh... I just don't quite understand 'squeak mao merrow'..."
The doctor just nodded understandingly and gestured toward the enclosures around the walls of the room, various tanks and a large aviary.
"You sound like someone who'd do well with most bitties, but especially a patient sort. If you want that, I'd go with a classic or horror papyrus type, or perhaps some of the sans'. Just look in the aviary or the open enclosures, as those will have the large birds or nagas you'd need to have with cats around."
The woman tilts her head thoughtfully. "Classic, you think? Hm,I do enjoy a good pun, even if I'm not all that witty m'self... Or y'said a horror type?"
((ooc: she would know what they are, canonically, but while I know my interpretation of horror types, it would be good to clarify what that means for this shop...like is it a "genetic" type or the result of mistreatment. Also just for my curiosity, does the shop do types other than Sans/Papyrus like Gaster, Grillby etc., or mostly just the Sans and Papyrus sorts?))
"Yes, mostly because they tend to be more understanding and kind toward those who struggle as they have natural struggles of their own. And the classic Papyri are very encouraging and helpful, while any basic sans type, non swap, won't kick up a fuss if a few chores aren't done or it takes some time."
((our horrors are genetically that way, and my shop only has sans and papyrus, plus one original bitty which is a cat-type blaster))
She nods at his words. "Yeah, probably a good idea. I definitely don't think I'd do too well with a more bossy sort... On one hand, he might keep me in line. ...but we'd prolly just fight more than anything.". Sighing, she shrugs. "Anyway, ah, so... ....just.... Regarding the horror types again... I assume from your noting them as a possible good fit that there is indeed no truth to some of the nastier stories out there about them...ah... 'hunting' small pets?"
((I often see horror types cited as being prone to eating small pets, so I could see it being a rumor in this reality :) ))
Tahoma sighs softly, "we don't consider cats 'small' here at this shop. for us, that would be more hamsters, rats, or hedgehogs. A horror would eat that sort of pet. But not cats. those are much larger unless you're talking about newborn kittens."
He gestures at a sign on the wall that says "Horrors are not compatible with small pets" with little pictures of the "no" symbol over a rat, a hamster, and a hedgehog silhouette.
"And after a week of knowing there will be food available at their convenience, they won't bother attacking anything that isn't an intruder."
She nods thoughtfully. "Good to know... Well, ah, I guess... Is there anything else I should know, or any procedure I need to follow before taking a meander about? Any special diets or needs?"
He nods, gesturing to another poster. "The Underworld and Worldswap bitties all have special needs because of the unique anatomy their universe of origin granted. they either have to eat soft foods due to having jaws that separate in the middle without connection or have to be fed a liquid or small pieces diet since they're lacking a skull of any kind."
She blinks looking slightly incredulous. "Oh my.... I... Don't think I had any notes on those particular subtypes. I understand the split jaw liquid diet... I broke my jaw once. But ....others are lacking skulls?? As in....They....are created without skulls?"
((oh wow, I had to look those AU up!))
((they're lesser known, but i love them))
"yes," Tahoma gently murmurs something in the tank and picks up a legged bitty that is dressed as a papyrus, but has no skull at all. "This is one of them. They sense things through magic and touch alone, and always have a paired brother to help them. Usually one of the split-jaws, but occasionally they match with a more average bitty."
The bitty's neck is wagging softly back and forth, like someone who's tilting their head in a similar fashion. They're perfectly comfortable, their little clawed hands tip-tapping on their knees as they sit criss-cross on Tahoma's hand.
She looks curiously at the bitty, expression calm, though pity and shock seem to be warring in her eyes. "Does he... I mean, I suppose he.... He is created this way? So there's no phantom pain like amputees get sometimes, right?"
She then adds, "and does his magic enable him to speak or have a variant of sight and hearing?"
The bitty starts signing using magically summoned hands since his own arms end in pointy bits.
Tahoma smiles a bit, "all our bitties are made from magic donated by residents of a given universe. This is how they are born, just as the horrors are born with their various 'injuries' and fells are born with sharp teeth. He's saying he can hear and taste perfectly well, he just cannot see.
we do have a few rescues from other shops, so I cannot speak for them, but ours are all as pain free as possible. Though, the brother lines for this little fellow's type tend to have joint issues similar to arthritis."
She seems relieved by the knowledge. "Ahh, good to know." Then, more to the bitty himself she adds, "Sorry for what must seem silly questions...but phantom pain and such are a concern for me with my tri-pawed kitty, so it's top of mind."
The bitty seems to sign something back, which causes her to slightly frown before looking back to the Doctor. "I am afraid I don't know Hands or any other sign language..." she explains sheepishly.
"That's alright," Tahoma gave the bitty a pat on the shoulder and put him back, "That just means we can cross our sign only bitties off your list. The bitty waves at you before returning to a large blue lump that is actually his snoozing brother.
"Let's see if you click with any of the Moonjellies," he headed to the naga tank, which also held the legged bitties of the same types, and gestured, "These are our classic sans' and papyrus types, both naga and legged. Birds are in the aviary," he points to a large green birdcage, "and mers are in the aquarium."
She starts to wave back but remembers he can't see... But before she follows the Doctor over to the tank, she calls out a polite, "nice meeting you," to the headless bitty. She then joins Tahoma by the tank and looks inside. "Moon jellies you called them...?"
"Yes, that's what Dumpling named the classic sans snakes since she loves jellyfish," Tahoma gestures to the pile of deep blue coils with small round skulls sticking out in various places. "And their brother type is of course a Sunjelly, due to their differing magic colors."
the Sunjellies are zipping about, energetic as most classic Papyrus types are.
"Ahh, gotcha. I hadn't heard that term for'm before.... But it does sound prettier than 'Corny'. Aquatic jellies are definitely cool...though I'm not a big fan of their sting...." she comments idly, observing the not-so-dangerous danger noodles and the non-noodly skeles dozing, playing, and chatting together. She seems then to focus on a Sansy type curled up alone in a corner....probably just dozing but...it seems to remind her of something "Just for asking, but do the rescued get to mingle with the unadopted, or do you keep them separate?"
"Yes, once they feel they're ready to socialize and try being adopted," Tahoma sees where you're looking and gives a small smile, "I'll leave you to it, though. it's best for bitties to get to know their new family on their own. Just ask for me if you need me, and the shop bitties are around as well."
She gives the Doctor a smile and nod. "Alright. Thanks for all your help!"
As the Doctor returns to his work, she begins to meander through the shop, observing all the various bitties; watching for any who "reach out" or "speak" to her....both conventionally, and on a more esoteric level...
((i honestly don't know where to go from here. i need clues as to who you're looking for specifically or I can't continue the rp))
((no worries! Not sure what all you have/don't...and do you prefer me to write leading dialogue for your bitties where applicable or do that yourself? But maybe this can help...))
For a time, she observed the various classic sorts, but though some waved or even chatted a bit, there was no 'click' of connection, that sense of 'where were you, what took you so long to get here!' that she sought with any sentient being fixed to enter her life. Bit of a shame, really, since the Doctor had been right - a laid back Sans or more subdued Papyrus sort wouldn't be a bad bet for her based on what she'd read - but she wouldn't force a connection...
Not ready to give up just yet, she continued through the shop. She wasn't particularly drawn to the aquatics - just as well, as she had no place for an appropriate tank - and avians still gave her some disquiet due to that incident with an ex-roomate's parrot.... The cat-like blasters did appeal in terms of some aspects of their behaviour which was familiar, but she couldn't shake how much they reminded her of that cat she had to dissect in high school... And the only time in her life she had ever passed out. So, ultimately, she found herself mainly observing the legged and lamia sorts.
She also realized right quick she had been right that she didn't see herself bonding with the traditional fell types - tsundere punks, loud-mouthed self-proclaimed bosses, and weepy little subservient cry-baby variations of the tsundere just... Didn't mesh. She also knew better than to look for anything like a so-called killer, dust, or error type. She'd dealt with way too much violent crazy in her life already.
But for other types, she tried to keep an open mind... Ideally, it would be someone mature and eloquent enough with whom she could have a conversation, who would want to spend time with her, but didn't need excessive coddling.... And who was willing to look past or help with her foibles and adhd-inspired lack of housekeeping without yelling, nitpicking, or bossing her around -too- much.
Online she had been drawn to some of the gaster types, though most of them did sound either too unhinged, or too cerebral to find her of any interest... But some of the swapped papyri? or head-ful horrors and their gallows-humor loving siblings? She could even see herself dealing with a fun if overly lusty plum or G, if they didn't mind her lack of interest in anything beyond completely platonic companionship. And she had to admit - she usually was drawn to the misfits and damaged...rescues and refugees. But...again...
As she rounded a corner towards the back of the store, she reminded herself to be open to that feeling of connection, of 'rightness', regardless of where it originated.
(this gave me an idea and i have the motivation after some back and forth elsewhere so here we go)
One of the tanks held several of the 'rescues' from other shops that didn't have a matching category in this shop.
A sans of one of the swapfell varieties was sitting on a small chair, sipping tea from an appropriately sized teacup and observing the others play. He was taller than your average fellswap red sans, and seemed to only have one eye light on that was a golden star in his eye. This marked him as a fellswap Gold sans instead, which was not a variety at this shop at the moment.
He noticed you looking around and called softly, "My dear, might we speak a moment?" He had a mature air about him and was well dressed in sleek black clothes, using his braced crutches to stand up. While his legs were a bit weak from injury, his spirit was intact and a cheeky smile was on his face, showing his sharper teeth.
The woman pauses midstep, and turns to face him directly, immediately noting the combination of sharp teeth but soft features - a fell Sans for sure! - but with a sort of poise and elegance - so a swapped fell Sans...? ....he doesn't seem at all like the little diva chaos gremlins she's seen videos of and read about, though - the so-called raspberries and blackberries... That and the eye.... Wait, ...Was he a Wine? Was that the name....?
Well, whatever the species. The individual is what mattered. And this individual wanted to talk to her!
She flashes him a friendly smile as she steps towards the tank with a nod. "Sure! What's up?" she asks.
He smiled up at you and bowed his head slightly, "I see you scurrying about, but not seeming to connect. I apologize if this is an intrusion, but I thought I might be able to help. I'm quite good at reading people. I go by Grant, but feel free to call me anything that suits you."
Grant clacks his way forward on his crutches adeptly and asks, "I'm supposing the basic types and surface level conversation hasn't made an impression yet."
She chuckles good naturedly and shrugs. "I s'pose you could say that..." Tilting her head, she observes him calmly, trying not to just babble as she usually does when her anxiety kicks in.
"Ah good. Well, maybe if you talk with me a bit i can gauge your proclivities. Here, put your hand down if you don't mind, I'd feel more comfortable doing this while sitting." Grant gestures with his head of where to put your hand.
She nods and does as he asks. "Are you one of the permanent residents here then?" she inquires.
"No, dear," he chuckles and sits on your palm. "I'm a rescue. was sold in bulk with others to a fight ring, managed to keep my life even if my legs healed incorrectly." His immaculately tailored pants are lifted a bit to show metal securing his bones into the proper place, "Hence the need of the crutches."
She murmurs in unsurprised but visceral anger at the mention of the ring, cursing fhe whole rotten racket under her breath as he settles himself. "Bloody hell, man... I wish you'd not had to go through that...". She carefully lifts him from the tank before leaning against the wall to better keep her body and hand steady as she adds in a melancholy sigh, "no-one should ever have to go through that. ....did they at least get the bastards behind it?"
"Yes indeed," Grant gingerly crosses his legs, sitting up straight as a board, "the leader is getting twenty to life, and his accomplices at least five each. A little too generous in my opinion, but I am not a man of the law."
"But enough about me. I heard you talking to Miss Dumpling earlier and listened a bit as you talked to the others. I'm just a bit curious why they didn't spark anything with you."
She looks slightly puzzled. "Ms. Dumpling? Ah, I don't think I met her, though Dr. Tahoma was very kind and helpful... Well, regardless.....". She pauses to think, expression thoughtful. "As for why nothin' has been sparkin' this far, well... I don't know it's any one thing in particular, but more the lack of any sort of intrinsic connection. Not t'sound all "woo woo" crazy crystal lady an' all, but I know from experience that the best relationships just sort of....happen... Y'meet, someone starts talkin', and it's like runnin' into an old friend. Silly, I suppose but my few lasting friendships have always been like that. ....my closest relationship with cats for that matter... But point is, no one else here has shown much interest in me, and I haven't felt any pull towards anyone here that would have me strikin' up the conversation first... I mean, you're the first here t'really start a conversation with me of your own accord..."
Grant blinked, then smacked his head. "Right. Tahoma. I'm...sorry. Sometimes my memories get a bit scrambled, but it helps to correct me, and it's getting better the longer I'm in a stable environment."
He nods about the information, "Well, I enjoy conversation, but this shop tends to attract a bit more of the outgoing sort. It isn't that you aren't interesting, we're just rather used to people asserting themselves. I was rather interested to know what you were looking for. Now I know."
At his comment about memory, she smiles and nods knowingly but doesn't interrupt. When he pauses a moment later, she chuckles gently. "Well, I dunno I'm particularly interestin' either t'be honest," she admits. "I mean, the most excitin' thing I've done in the past month 'sides come in here is finally finish sortin' my embroidery threads! ....Oh, and try a new choc'late pie recipe usin' phyllo dough for the crust... Livin' on the edge an' all, y'know."
He perks up, "Oh, I like both of those things. I tend to be a bit domestic when left to my own devices, and needlework is especially good for me since my legs aren't quite up to par."
His eye light is bright and he's very happy to talk about these subjects.
She glanced over his meticulously ordered garments with a small grin. "Would I be right in guessin' you do your own tailorin' then? Gotta say it's not a skill I have quite yet, but I've been lookin' t'add it to my too-long list of hobbies..."
"I do indeed," he closed his eyes and turned his skull down in humility, "I do my best and fabric is something I understand. I'd be more than happy to give you pointers if you'd like."
She regards him with a kind if bemused smile, one brow quirked upwards. "D'you give lessons here in th' shop? Or are you thinkin' somethin' more one-on-one back at my place?' she asks playfully, though the real question - is he offering to take a chance on life with her? - is obvious.
"Oh i'd have to come with you, of course," He leaves one eye closed and the other holds his bright starry eye light, a playful grin curling onto his face, "with all the commotion and audience here, there's no way we could properly concentrate."
He was more than happy to give this a try, a quiet life of simple pleasures sounding wonderful to him.
The woman regards him with a genuine smile. "Heh, no kiddin'. My place isn't a palace, but it is pretty quiet. After all, it's pretty much just me and the cats..." Her expression grows more thoughtful, pensive even, as she glanced over at the enclosure in which he had been living before turning her gaze back to him. "Now, that said, if you'd be wanting some company other than my own... I mean, I can't imagine you would..but....." She exaggerates her statement in a clearly sarcastic manner before returning to a more serious mood. "If you have some friend or fam'ly you'd not want t'leave...".
She trails off, regarding him calm but carefully, hoping she hasn't inadvertently opened some old wound... She knows that most Sans derivatives have a papyrus derivative to match...but at a glance, at least, she sees no other soul that would seem to fit the description....and with Grant being s survivor of an abusive battle ring....
....of course, those who survive the ring might have deep bonds with their fellows - blood of the covenant and all that.
While she's more than happy with her solitary new acquaintance, she also doesn't want him to feel as though he needs to abandon anyone important to him that she has not yet met....
Grant sighs, "I'm quite alone, I'm afraid. While I know quite a few of the bitties here, I have never found any sort of match. Perhaps I am lucky in that, never having had a brother or partner. I'd be a mother hen, I know it, it's in my magic to be a caretaker."
Shaking his head with a smile, he looks up at you, "Let's go inform the management that we've come to an accord, shall we?"
She smiles but gives him a serious look. "If you're sure y'wanna take a chance on me... then ....yeah, I am down for that! S'long as you don't mind me not being the neatest person, and don't mind a couple furry footstools runnin' about ...well, I think we could get along pretty well! ....though, 'fore you sign anything with fine print, did you want or need t'know anything else 'bout me or the livin' situation? ....like..." She pauses, frowning slightly....then clearly irritated, rubs the bridge of her nose with the hand not holding Grant. "Ugh. like, for instance, y'should prolly know my name....which I shoulda stated earlier, but...
... ...it's Katherine by the way. Katherine Connors. ....But you can call me Kate. Or Kat. Or whatever. ...just...not Kathy, please. ...i'm a bit tired of folks making bad references to an obnoxious old comic strip character....."
He chuckles, "Kathrine is a lovely name. I think the full name is perfectly usable, but I will definitely avoid the nickname you dislike." Thinking a bit, he looks at you, "All the questions I have are very minor things that wouldn't affect my decision. I think we're ready to go ahead."
