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i am robbing bakerstreet again

PET PERSON MEME

>> premise

Hello, and welcome to The Care and Keeping of Your Pet! As you surely know, a pet is a big responsibility, and we're so glad you've decided to be a concientious master. A safe pet is a happy pet, and this handbook is certain to keep your precious lifelong friend as content as can be.

The history of the animal person is a long and difficult one, with their origins not being known even to this day. However, scientists believe that despite our common appearance - most animal people have humanoid forms except for the ears, tails, and sometimes teeth - we share no common ancestry, even if the ascent of this species corresponds with that of the homo sapien. We gained dominance over each breed thousands of years ago, beginning with the dog type, who have long been considered "man's best friend." Most breeds these days are docile and perfect for owners of any speed.

Of course, it is our duty as the superior species to take care of these animal creatures, and this is inherent in their genetic makeup. Everyone knows that an animal person, when matched with their correct human master, is loyal for life - a true "soulmate," if you will. Far be it for us to turn this away! Ever since the Great Domestication, these intelligent and loving animals have served us as friends, workmates, guardians, servants, and sexual companions and will for years to come. Despite recent hubbub from so-called "Pet People's Rights Activists," this way of life is wholesome and good. Scientific research shows that the natural desire of the pet person is to be owned and cared for by a human.

So, it's your first pet. What do you need to know?

As previously stated, pet people come in as many breeds as you can possibly think of. By far and away the most popular are the dog and cat types, but exotic birds and lizards have been gaining popularity among trendsetters from L.A. to Tokyo!
All pet types are best suited for certain jobs, and when hunting for one, it is best to search for a type that suits your needs best.
However, a "True Match" - when a pet person bonds with you and only you for the rest of their natural lives - comes naturally, and sometimes takes time before you can find the pet you will be able to give a forever home to.
According to all current research, pet people are completely sentient and like us in many ways. However, it is important to remember that they have many animalistic and feral characteristics. Do not be foolish and think that your pet is a person, despite the facts that many are clothed and may be allowed to read, write, and have "hobbies." Some traditional pet owners may eschew these frivolities, and that is within their right.
Pet people age more quickly than humans, at least physically, and many types have long lifespans. It is not uncommon for pets to be passed through the family. When getting your child their first pet, it's important to keep in mind that just because the pup is tiny now, a grown pet can be jumpy around a small child.
It is important to train a pet. Discipline will be necessary. This does not make you a bad owner. Failure to train early will result in a rebellious pet. Training is especially important if you want your pet to serve as a household servant.
Remember, your pet will be extremely protective of you, especially if you are Truly Bonded. It is best to socialize them early. A socialized pet is a perfect family pet.
These days, unowned and unbonded pet people are allowed to live as strays or "Frees" in certain designated areas. Some even hold "jobs." This is against their best interest, and owners who adopt these strays are to be rewarded. Still, the best place to get pets are from liscenced kennels or breeders.
Some masters find it beneficial to participate in activities with their pets, such as shows and other competitions.
Finally, much has been made about the sexual relationship between pet and master. This is a normal facet of the bond, and humans are sure to find pet people sexually alluring. But beyond that, it is only responsible and prudent for owners to care for their pet's needs. It is a well-known fact that the libidos of pet people are remarkably strong, and when they go into heat, it is usually more convenient for a master to relieve them. There is no risk of pregnancy. All rumors of hybrids are urban legends.
Despite this, masters must remember to not view their pets as romantic partners. Humans should stay with humans.

With that said, thank you and welcome to your first day as a pet's master!

>> how to play

Needless to say, The Care and Keeping of Your Pet is a bit biased and full of propaganda, but it gives a good idea of the world your character is now AU's into. They are either a pet person or a human master, and what that means for them varies.

So are they a devoted pet or a rebellious animal person looking to buck the system? A generous master or a cruel sexual sadist? Just a normal pet owner? Most likely they're something in between, but when you're raised in this world, it's difficult to see anything different on the horizon.

Rules

Comment with your character and say whether they'd be a master or a pet. Ideally, they could be played as both. Mention what kind of each they'd be and what they'd be like, (ie: "Xx-chan is a bunny girl who is happy to please her master" or "Asterothia is a cat boy who is aloof but loyal to his true master"). For pets, be sure to include features ("wolf ears, tail, teeth).

REMEMBER, pet does not automatically equal submissive and master automatically equal dominant. This is not a BDSM setting though BDSM can be included. How far you want to go with the actual "pet" aspect is up to you, as well. Your pet could just be your slightly-furry roommate or soulmate!
Comment to others.
Play out the scene.

>> prompts

This by no means an all-inclusive list, but it should get you going in the right direction.

First Time Pet/Owner: Usually, pets are gotten at a young age; you're an old dog. Can you learn new tricks?
True Bond: What all masters and pets yearn for...the pet's loyalty and adoration for life.
Love: It's expected for masters to love their pets, but to love them? Romance is strictly forbidden.
Old "Couple": Master and pet have grown together and know each other. You know, know each other.
Loss of Master: The pet has lost their master, perhaps even their True Bond. Is it possible to move on?
Young Master/Older Pet: Pets age quicker than masters, so it's possible to end up with a bit of an "age" difference.
Family Pet: This pet's been raised as part of the family. What happens when their feelings for a family member get more than platonic.
For Your Protection: You don't want to be a master, but you have to take in a pet for their protection lest they be in danger from the general public.
Stray: You're a stray or a "Free." Can you live like this with your biology screaming for you to make a match?
Servant: You're more servant than pet.
All Sex, All the Time: The only purpose for this pet is to service the master, and not in a way that means cleaning their house.
Guard: You're a loyal bodyguard, a service pet. You'll do anything for your master. Anything.
Pet Play: This is for those who prefer to keep their animals on leashes, have them eat from bowls, and keep away from clothing.
Breaking In: Training is important with any pet.
In Love with Another Master...or Pet: To lust after another's master is no better than treason, and to wish to be with another pet just cruel!
Punishment: Bad dog, no nookie!
Heat: All pets go into heat, and it's the responsibility of the owner to take care of this problem. After all, unchecked dry humping kills thousands every year.
Breeding: Breeders know the best qualities in each type and mate the cream of the crop together to continue lines. It's a hobby for some, a calling for others.
Territorial: Hey, hey, other dog person! This is your apartment. Stay the fuck out!
Kennel: Kennels are where unadopted pets are kept. They're generally agreed to be depressing places. Why not volunteer at one, keeping the pets healthy and happy with the kind of affection only humans can show?
Rebelling Against the System: Damn the Man! Pet people are people, too! Just be careful not to get talk. You know what happens to bad pets.
Instant Attraction: You ever just look at someone and know they're the one? That they're...your master? But what if you've been trying to fight it? Well, don't try!
Dominant Pet: You might be the pet, but you call the shots, at least in the bedroom.
Pet Show: Everyone wants to show off how perfect their animal is. Look at that ass! And you'll never believe their special skills...
Therapeutic: Pets, especially those bred for their kindliness, are perfect therapy for those who've been through trauma and heartache.
Jealousy: Who's that around your master? Oh, hell no. They better not be touching them!
Petting: Pet people are absolutely gaga for being touched. Even the most steely ones turn to mush for rubs.
Games: Playing with your pet and giving them exercise is a key to happiness. Of course, with a pet person, you might want to use other toys instead of a ball.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

I'd hope it's nothing so dramatic. I suppose I just don't want to think of anyone being that cruel to someone as kind as you.

[Tatsumi has no problem believing he's doing the right thing, especially after seeing those shoes. Mayoi may have been given material objects, or polished and made more beautiful aesthetically, but the scars he bears are obviously so deep... Tatsumi hates that family more than he thought possible, now. Even his own privilege didn't entitle him to treat anyone as lesser the way Mayoi was obviously treated. He sets in his heart then and there to always treat Mayoi gently and with utmost kindness.

They make their way down the hall, and he opens the door to his room, then directs Mayoi inside. At least his bed isn't tiny, but the room is otherwise lacking in personality. It doesn't feel like it was always that way; rather now it feels like something is oddly missing. It feels empty.

Tatsumi makes his way over to the bed and takes a seat on the edge, atop the gray comforter. Without hesitation, he pats the bed beside him, hoping Mayoi will sit.]

Thank you, Mayoi-san. I'll introduce you to my parents in the morning, once I've had time to explain things. For now, would you mind staying with me? The bathroom is just across the hall if you'd like a hot bath, and--oh, I should've asked if you needed something to eat.

[For a moment, Tatsumi seems legitimately troubled by not thinking of that before they made it all the way in here... But then he smiles, somewhat like an absentminded elder.]

Well. We'll figure things out, won't we?

[Mayoi thinks to himself, perhaps he will not explain the details to someone as gentle as Tatsumi. If he’s this fussed over him with what he has said …ah, he does not want to trouble him. It wouldn’t be right. Mayoi gives him a quiet smile.]

[Once they’re in his room, Mayoi …does take note of how empty it feels. It …is a stark difference to the opulent luxury that adorned the halls he has been used to, so it’s very noticeable. However …ah, he knows so little about this religion, perhaps that’s normal?]

[He takes a seat where indicated, trying to be as small as possible. He is still a little wet…]

I would be honored that you would let me share your room… Ah, I will …go utilize the bath. I’m in quite a state, and I don’t wish to track more water in your place.

[On the subject of food.]

Do not trouble yourself …If there is anything to spare I will take it, but I will be fine.

[He’s terribly hungry actually, but he feels awful for asking for anything after what Tatsumi has done for him. Hopefully Tatsumi can read in the lines.]

[Tatsumi gets to his feet without a second thought, going to his dresser to pull out some nightclothes for Mayoi to change into. It's like his legs have stopped bothering him quite suddenly, and he's grateful for it. When he comes back over, it's with clean, soft pajamas and a warm pair of socks.]

I'll make something to eat while you bathe. I'm honestly surprised, but I have an appetite suddenly. ...I haven't had much of one lately.

[A smile. This might turn out to be a lovely evening. He has a fleeting desire to spoil Mayoi a bit, and decides he'll track down a brush and something to freshly tie Mayoi's hair with, as well.]

...Do you mind being touched, Mayoi-san?

[Maybe he should ask that before he jumps to odd fantasies... It must sound like quite the leap from making him dinner, though.]

[Ah, warm clothing …he takes them with a grateful smile.]

Then I would happily take anything you may offer.

[He is watching his step for any trouble, but he is pleased to see him walking with little difficulty. Ah, perhaps being out of the rain has made him feel better, that’s good.]

[His question gives him a little pause before he shakes his head.]

I do not mind. I am certain …whatever you may wish to do will be remarkably softer than what I am used to.

[And with those cryptic words, Mayoi will slip out to head into the bathroom.]

[It's hard to hear such things, when he has only kindness in mind. These people Mayoi ran from... Tatsumi hates them with all of his heart. He'll pray to his beloved God that they get their just rewards for harming an innocent pet.

To Mayoi, Tatsumi smiles, then gently nods. Hopefully he doesn't have any allergies or food preferences... Tatsumi realizes after Mayoi is already gone that he forgot to ask. He's not an amazing host, he thinks, and it brings a slight color to his cheeks.

But then he's off to the kitchen, albeit at a slow pace, to find something to make for them both to eat. It's nothing fancy, just some miso soup and lightly sauced noodles with a little meat, but he hopes it's enough for Mayoi. Surely pet people eat a lot of meat... That's really all he could come up with as a plan.

The dishes are set out on the table with care, and he sits to calmly await Mayoi's return, only idly stirring the soup in the meantime. His appetite is back with ferocity, which is actually welcome. It's been a while.]

[Mayoi spends quite a while in the bath. He has a lot of grooming to do with his hair and the long fur of his tail, and with the cold weather, he's felt particularly bedraggled. It gives him a moment to really settle down, too. Finally it feels like ...he can stop running. He's here now and he's somewhere safe.]

[He's still afraid for the future, but he is not afraid for his immediate safety and it takes a lot out of him. If not for hunger he might have fallen asleep in the tub.]

[He takes the time to dry out both his hair and tail, which is a process and grants Tatsumi plenty of time to get their meal together. Once he's out, meekly he peeks into Tatsumi's bedroom before carefully looking for him in the kitchen. It feels ...like he is not yet supposed to be here, so he is a little bit on edge. After all, Tatsumi's folks do not yet know of him...]

[However the food smells wonderful and he all but forgets his worry once he sees Tatsumi. Now dressed in those borrowed night clothes, looking much less like a drowned rat than he did, he will approach. His steps are very quiet, like someone trained to never make a sound when they come and go.]

...It smells very good.

[Tatsumi is absolutely certain his family will welcome Mayoi completely, so he doesn't spare a second thought worrying about any of it. This will become their "normal", together, and Tatsumi finds himself looking forward to it in the strangest way as he sits alone in the silent kitchen. He doesn't hear Mayoi approach, but he just assumes it's because he's lost in his thoughts, so when he looks up and sees him, the smile comes after a short beat on confusion.

Mayoi, looking as he does much less drowned and sad, is actually more beautiful than Tatsumi originally thought. His hair looks soft, and Tatsumi's fingers itch to brush it to a sleek, beautiful silkiness. His tail has life to it now, too, and his ears don't seem quite so hesitant to animate. This... really is a good thing, then.]

Please, have a seat.

[And once Mayoi does, Tatsumi will reach across the table as if asking to take one of his hands.]

Do you mind holding my hand while I give thanks for the meal? You don't have to join me. This is just something I do. [Another little smile.] Even if you're staying here, I won't force you to believe in something you don't already. If you come to someday, that's fine, but for now I'm just asking to be humored. It comforts me.

[Oh...! Mayoi will give him his hand with a curious tilt of his head. An ear flicks idly, and that luxurious, fluffy tail that is now twice the size it was before when drenched will wrap delicately around his feet as he sits.]

Oh ...no, please. I... I am very curious, and it's something I should know more about if I am to be of use to the church.

[Mayoi will add his other hand, taking Tatsumi's.]

Will you show me...?

[The fluffy tail does bring peace and happiness to Tatsumi's heart that he didn't know was possible... He wonders if this is simply what it's like to have a pet.

Taking Mayoi's hand delicately, he put his other hand on his chest.]

Of course. It doesn't matter how you thank the Lord for His blessings, as long as you remember to do it when you can. I don't think you'll be judged harshly if you miss a prayer here and there. I know some nights I... [He doesn't feel like it's worth it, some nights. But a convenient lie sounds nicer.] ...simply fall into bed from exhaustion and forget.

But I always say a quick thanks before a meal, usually holding my parents' hands when we eat together. When we don't, if I'm eating alone, I just hold my own, really. Close your eyes and bow your head, and speak from your heart.

[He squeezes Mayoi's hand gently, then closes his eyes and bows his head, just as he said.]

Dear Lord, thank you for the blessings you have given us today. I pray this food will nourish our tired bodies and bring us closer to your grace. Amen.

[And he opens his eyes, looking up at Mayoi.]

That's all. You usually say "Amen" at the end, even if you didn't lead the prayer. As long as your heart is devoted to the message, it will reach God, so you can say things silently if needed. Sometimes when I'm out for lunch I don't want to disturb anyone by speaking, so I'll pray silently instead.

[Mayoi quietly follows his lead, bowing his head, listening to Tatsumi pray. It is ...a strangely calming, zen thing to listen to. Once he's finished, Mayoi nods, understanding his explanation.]

Amen.

[And then he smiles brightly. It is perhaps the best smile he has worn so far, and he takes his hands back to properly appraise the food.]

[He was used to nice food. After all, he was a well-kept pet, for the most part. They cared a lot about appearances, and so, he was given the best in terms of things like that. However ...there is something much more heartfelt about the meal in front of him.]

[He will glance up before he takes up a utensil, making sure he has permission to eat, but once it seems like he does, he will be as politely ravenous as humanly possible.]

[He really was terribly hungry.]

[That smile catches Tatsumi off guard, and the biggest smile he's had in months is reflected right back at Mayoi.

Of course, he's worried that someone from a wealthier household might be used to better, richer food, but he's delighted when Mayoi seems satisfied. He's so delighted, in fact, that he forgets for a moment to eat his own meal. He's mesmerized by the hunger, and the gratitude. Mayoi is more charming than Tatsumi realized, too, and once again the pious young man stares in polite awe.]

...Mayoi-san, would you like my portion as well?

[Tatsumi's offer catches him so off guard he nearly chokes on some soup broth. But, he tries as gracefully as he can to correct himself and look at Tatsumi somewhat bewildered. His ears go from being upright in alarm to pressing back, but then cautiously coming forward again.]

N-N-No, I couldn't... T-to take yours... that would be wildly inappropriate, T-Tatsumi-san...

[To even think of taking a portion meant for his Master, it makes his blood turn cold. It feels like a trap. But Tatsumi wouldn't do something like that right...? This is genuine...? But why would a human just offer up their own for him??]

[He's going through a few wild conversations in his own head waiting for Tatsumi's answer.]

[Tatsumi looks mildly alarmed that Mayoi is alarmed, which probably just serves to perpetuate the alarm for several seconds. But then he settles down and realizes he must just need to explain himself, since it seems Mayoi is a stranger to being treated kindly.]

Your hand is very thin and you've had a difficult day... I assumed you weren't fed enough at your prior home. I'm sorry for assuming things. I wouldn't mind making more if you're still hungry, though.

[A warm sound slips out of Tatsumi's throat.]

Not to call myself out, but I'm not used to people being grateful for my meager cooking skills. If it makes you feel warm and welcome, I'll probably cook for you every day.

[He does settle down somewhat, cheeks burning with some embarrassment. He had reacted rather wildly... ah... habit. Perhaps he also should explain...]

I... I am still a little peckish...

[He frowns a little, holding his hands close to his chest.]

Sometimes ...I would be offered things and assured they were okay, only to be punished. I... I had to be very careful about what I accepted and didn't around them...

[No one deserves that, and Tatsumi frowns.]

No one here will treat you like that. [...] Did no one in that family love you, Mayoi-san?

[It breaks his heart to think of it. He'd always heard that pets were to be loved and protected, treated like members of the family even if they were lesser. That was in the teachings of his religion, to minister to the suffering and love and help the downtrodden.]

I understand if you're afraid of me. I won't ask you to do anything that scares you yet, but you may have to tell me when you're scared. I've never had a pet before.

[What a question...]

[He thinks about it, but then casts his eyes down. Against his will, hot distressed tears start to stream down his face.]

No...N-No... I-I don't think they ever did...I...

[Oh, no, now the tears won't stop. He feels ...so much more upset now than he realized. It's like all of it is finally hitting him.]

Why did I not deserve their love...? What could I have done...? I tried ....a-and I tried ...but they ... I couldn't bear it any longer, Tatsumi-san...

[Hold it together, do not create a scene. You will be punished if you-]

[His heart aches for Mayoi, and he gets up with some difficulty to go to his side, his own food barely touched. As he kneels painfully beside his new pet, he moves to take his hands.]

There's nothing bad or wrong or reprehensible about you, Mayoi-san. They're the ones who were wrong. They should have loved you, at the very least as much as anyone should love all of God's creatures.

[His heart aches in a way he didn't know was possible. Injustice has always upset Tatsumi, but this feels so very personal.]

I hope you'll come to trust me. I hope you'll let me show you all the kindness they wouldn't. I'll keep you safe here, and I'll let you sleep near me and eat with me. I'll give you company when you want it and privacy when you don't. Perhaps... someday we'll come to love each other. I'd like that, really. It's what you deserve.

[How long has he yearned for those kinds of words...? All his life, he thinks. To finally hear them, it's hard to describe the way he feels. It's hard to make the tears stop, but they fall for new reasons now.]

...Have I died ...? I feel as though ...your kindness cannot possibly be of this earth. I...

[Tatsumi claims his hands, and Mayoi feels an urge he cannot suppress to lean in as close to him as he'll allow.]

I have longed for even ...a dredge of what you promise ...i-is it really true? Will you not snatch it away from me again and again...?

[Please ...he needs just one more confirmation. That he's safe and that Tatsumi is real.]

Mayoi-san. I've decided I can't just give you to the church. I want to protect you myself.

[He leans in the rest of the distance between them, pressing his forehead to Mayoi's gently.]

It's yours. All of my kindness and everything I can possibly offer someone else is yours for as long as you'll have it. No one will take you from me, and I'll care for you properly.

[And... maybe because he's stupid and impulsive, Tatsumi tips his chin up slightly to press a fleeting kiss to the corner of Mayoi's lips.]

[...!!]

[Something in him warms considerably to hear those words. He would have been content to belong to the church, but his heart had really been aching for something more ...something personal. For a single person to say the words Tatsumi was saying.]

[No more cold indifference...]

Will you...? Can I devote myself to you unquestionably and earn your love...? I'll do everything ...be anything... I promise-

[And then that little kiss happens and Mayoi goes quiet again with surprise. But, rather than freak out, something in him simply accepts. Mayoi leans down so he can tuck his head right up under Tatsumi's chin, purring gently.]

I want to be yours, Tatsumi-san...

Edited 2023-07-06 06:22 (UTC)

[The way Mayoi calms and curls into him makes Tatsumi's heart soar. After what happened at school, he never thought he'd trust or care about anyone quite so strongly again. But he feels like Mayoi wouldn't lie, or deceive him. He feels an affinity for the poor, mistreated pet.]

I want you to be mine, Mayoi-san. I'm sorry if this is too sudden. I really didn't intend to... be quite like this. But if God has brought you to my arms, I won't turn you away. Anything you need, I'll take care of. You'll be my first and only...

[He falls quiet for a moment, reveling in a feeling he’s never felt before.]

It may be sudden for you …b-but …truly I have yearned for …something so simply all my life. I feel so happy I could die…

Please don't die. For me, Mayoi-san. I haven't been able to get to know you yet. Since we're making this promise to love each other, that's the most important thing to me.

[Tatsumi reaches across the table and pulls his food over.]

Here. Eat as much as you want. I'll make more for me.

O-Okay.

[Mayoi takes a deep breath and dries his tears. He reluctantly pulls away from Tatsumi just enough to get back in his seat. It does take a bit of working up to it, of having to argue with himself that Tatsumi wouldn’t trick him, before he’s able to eat. Once he does the food doesn’t last long.]

…Does Tatsumi-san enjoy cooking…?

[Mayoi eats, and Tatsumi watches carefully, backing off when he senses the hesitation. He can only think that Mayoi's instincts are telling him it isn't safe... so he moves to make something small and simple for himself, despite his own ravenous hunger. Nothing that's going to keep him away for long will do. There's just something about the idea of sharing a meal with Mayoi, of this being the first of many...]

I think it's enjoyable to cook for others, especially when they're grateful for it. Is that too self-serving? You may have to teach me to be more humble...

PET PERSON MEME

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