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! |
no subject
[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?
no subject
[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.]
no subject
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.]
no subject
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.]
no subject
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.]
no subject
[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.
no subject
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.
no subject
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...?
no subject
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.
no subject
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.]
no subject
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?
no subject
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.]
no subject
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.
no subject
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 subject
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.
no subject
[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-]
no subject
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.
no subject
...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.]
no subject
[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.]
no subject
[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...
no subject
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...
no subject
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…
no subject
[Tatsumi reaches across the table and pulls his food over.]
Here. Eat as much as you want. I'll make more for me.
no subject
[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…?
no subject
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...
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)