Meg: *still looking around, the energy isn't coming from the shop worker. She's surprised when everyone else enters the shop behind her. She smiles at Fang but then distractedly wanders looking for the source.* It's a place people come to welcome a...pet...into their family...
*she suddenly is sure she knows where the energy is and walks to a corner of the shop. There are exotic chinchillas and seemingly hundreds of mice but kneeling down she sees a habit that houses a single, small...hamster. It's black and white and curled righting into itself and shivering despite the warmth of the crowded store.* You...little one...you're calling me...
Shelter Worker: *frowns as she sees Meg approach the small hamster and she follows her* She... is very sick. I am the only person who operates this shelter... these are all animals I have taken in. My shelter isn't getting donations... I barely have money to care for the healthy animals... *kneels down by her* I don't have the money to continue her treatment. If someone does not take her... I will have no choice put to put her to sleep. But no one is interested... her condition is only worsening and I fear we can't wait any longer before making that decision. If she isn't adopted by the end of the day... *her voice trails off*
Orion: *over petting a puppy for adoption and getting licked in the face* Haha... cut it out!
Skylar: *smiling warmly at Orion's encounter but she turns when the worker says they may have to put the hamster to sleep* ...
Orion: *puts the puppy back into the playpen and turns as well* *quietly* No, we can't let that happen...
Onyx: You're right. *He frowns* Ma'am, how much to adopt her?
Shelter Worker: Hamster adoptions are $25... can you afford her care? The veterinarian is just next door. Her treatment will cost $150... So much for such a tiny creature... *tearing up a little*
Onyx: Then it's settled... we are taking her straight to the vet to get her taken care of. *smiles* And you said your shelter isn't getting donations? I would like to make a donation.
Orion: Me too. *glances at Skylar and she gives an approving nod*
Shelter Worker: Thank you...! Cash or check is fine...
Orion: *reaches into his pocket and grabs a wallet, flipping through his money* ... *hands the shelter worker $250* I-I... *tries to swallow his shyness* ...know it isn't much but I hope it helps...
Shelter Worker: T-two hundred and fifty... thank you...!
Onyx: I'll need my checkbook... *turns to Amelia* You brought our checks right?
Amelia: *has a crossbody bag around her, she nods* Yes.
Onyx: *walks closer to her and they discuss among themselves how much to donate*
*they write a check and Amelia hands it to her*
Shelter Worker: *reads the amount and lets out a shriek before bursting into sobs* A... h-hun...hundred... thou...sand...!?!?
Onyx: I hope that can fund the repairs and upgrades your shelter needs. *smiles warmly*
Meg: *looks at the worker and opens her mouth when she says they'll have to put her down but she doesn't get to say a word before, Onyx says they'll adopt her she nods her head.*
*Turning back she smiles at the little Hamster and quietly says* You hear that little one...you're going to be OK...
Little Hamster: *cautious opens her eyes, they are red an unusual trait in such a dark hamster, although her base fur is white with black spots*
Meg: Hi...I'm Meg...
*she reaches out a hand and puts a finger on the habitat wall*
Little Hamster: *cringes curly tight again*
Meg: *takes back her finger and smiles* I'm going to have to move you a little...we're going to take you to see the doctor...OK?
*reaching out Meg gently lifts the habitat trying not to jostle her much and looks at the worker* Um... is this habitat OK for now? We're only going to be in Selvadorado for a little while but I want her to be comfortable... and we need some food too.
Shelter Worker: *grabs a bag of food from the shelf* The habitat should be fine for now... take the food no charge. *hands the bag to Onyx*
Onyx: *smiles and nods* Thank you. She will be taken care of, promise.
Hamlet: *finally makes his way to the center of the room and sees her, wide eyed* You got another hamster...!? *he grins from ear to ear*
Onyx: *smiles at Hamlet then looks at Meg* Come on, let's get her to the vet.
Meg: *smiles tentatively but she's worried about the little Hamster* Yeah, let's go.
*they all walk nextdoor to the vet*
Receptionist: May I help you?
Onyx: We need treatment for a sick hamster... she's in really bad shape...
Receptionist: *nods* We will put you down as an emergency. Sit and wait and you'll be called back as soon as we can.
*everyone sits*
Meg: *sits down on the chair holding onto the habitat tightly*
Little Hamster: *raises her head her little nose smelling the air*
Meg: *feels her chest constrict and she knows the Little Hamster is nervous although she's too exhausted to move* Hamlet...She's terrified. *looks over at him*
Could...you can talk to her...?
Hamlet: *he's been too surprised and even nervous to get too close to the fragile hamster but he smiles when Meg asks* Okay...
Onyx: Can you understand her in your human form? I'm worried you could catch what she has if you go into hamster form...
Hamlet: She might feel more comfortable if I'm a hamster. It's okay... I'll be okay. *makes sure the receptionist isn't looking and transforms into a hamster* Could you pick me up and put me in the habitat with her?
Orion: *sitting close by he stands up and lifts Hamlet into the habitat, stooping down to get a good look at the little hamster while he's at it. He smiles but figures he'll scare her so he just mutters a soft 'hello' to her and sits back down by Skylar*
Hamlet: *approaches the little hamster, speaking in... Hamsterlish?* Hello... it's okay, you don't have to be afraid. No one will hurt you.
Little Hamlet: *her breathing is fast and she looks over at Hamlet as the giant purple hand pulls back* How...do you know...we're in the place the pet shop lady brings me... they always poke and prod and nothing is ever better...I don't like it here...
*she buries her face in the sawdust, tired and terrified* I just...want to sleep...
Hamlet: My owners are going to pay for the treatment you need to get better now... okay? Don't go to sleep... *he comes closer* We want to help you... they're good people I promise. Everyone here is.
Little Hamster: *tilts her head to blink one red eye at Hamlet, if Hamsters could cry she would have tears in it* ...the pet shop lady wanted to help too......
*she tilts her head a little like she might be willing to believe Hamlet though, because maybe a part of her wants to believe him* ...but this might be different...? ...the lady holding the cage...seems different...so do you...
--
Meg: *wishing she spoke Hamsterlish watches Hamlet and the little Hamster anxiously. She glances up for a moment to look at Onyx* The doctor's not ready yet?
Hamlet: *nods* The lady wanted to help you too. But she couldn't pay for it... *looks away* So we stepped in to help. You'll be okay...
---
Onyx: *stands back up and approaches the desk* How much longer for the vet...?
Receptionist: You're next. It will only be a few minutes.
Onyx: *nods then sits back down* How is the hamster...?
Meg: *looks back at the hamsters* She's calmed down but...she's really tired. I don't like it.
*Quietly* Hold on, Little one...
--
Little Hamster: Hey Mr. Hamster...why do you smell like a human...?
Hamlet: Well... that's kind of complicated. I'm Hamlet, by the way. What's your name?
---
Veterinarian: *walks up to the group* A hamster emergency correct...? *he frowns*
Onyx: The shelter next door had this sick hamster and said it was too expensive to continue treatment...
Vet: Ahh... *nods* Did she forget to tell you what it was? Rabid Rodent Fever. The medication is very expensive and... the disease is highly contagious. Should you get bitten you will contract it and... your other hamster now most likely will contract it as well.
Amelia: *her eyes widen* Hamlet...!
Vet: I will give you medicine for both of them. They take it for three days, once a day, alright? *walks around to the other side of the counter and looks for medicine* ...here it is. *hands it to the receptionist* If her condition worsens... there is nothing more we can do. Have a good day. *walks back down the long hall of exam rooms*
Amelia: *walks up to the front desk*
Receptionist: *rings up the cost*
*Amelia pays then walks back to the others with a small bag containing the medicine* We need to dose them both... now.
Meg: *looks up feeling guilty* Both...? *looks down at Hamlet*
--
Little Hamster: ... Hamlet...? Well...
*she ducks her head, looking away from Hamlet* My old owners...they called me Ollie...
*pauses like she's waiting for Hamlet to tease her. When he doesn't she lifts her head* But...I always thought...I heard a name somewhere once...so pretty... if I could choose...Ophelia.
*she blinks obviously having trouble keeping thoughts straight* Pretty pretty Ophelia. Yep that's me...no more Ollie.
Hey, Mr. Omelette...is it warm in here...?
Amelia: *nods* It's contagious... we also have to make sure neither of them bite us. *frowns*
Onyx: Hamlet doesn't usually bite but... *frowns and looks down at the little hamster* I don't know about her.
Amelia: We'll just have to be extra careful...
---
Hamlet: ...two things... you don't need to call me Mr. and... Hamlet. Not Omelette... *he gives her a tiny rodent grin* Ophelia. I like that... my da-- er, owner loves Shakespeare... I think I remember an Ophelia in there somewhere. It's where he got Hamlet too.
---
Onyx: Here... I'll try... *opens the door to the habitat and slowly puts his hand in toward Ophelia* Hey... *smiles at her and very slowly moves his hand closer*
Meg: *sensing that Ophelia (still calling her Little Hamster in her mind) is losing touch with reality, she lays her hand on Onyx's wrist* The fever is taking hold...be very slow, give Hamlet time to talk her through it. She's scared more than anything else.
--
Ophelia: *seeing Onyx's hand and rears back, not to bite but to shy away* Hamlet--who is he...? I don't want to leave the habitat...outside the habitat... is scary....what is he doing...?
Onyx: *nods at Meg* I know. *he stops moving his hand closer for a moment*
---
Hamlet: It's okay. He's nice... he's one of my owners, Onyx. He won't hurt you... he's trying to help. See...? *he approaches Onyx's hand and sniffs it*
---
Onyx: *pats Hamlet's head with a finger and then reaches just a little further in toward the little hamster*
Meg:*watches intently looking for a sign that the little Hamster might bite*
---
Ophelia: *stops moving backwards, her head feels misty and she feels hot, but....* Okay...
*tentatively she wobbles forward, sniffing Onyx's hand* He...he seems OK.
*Taking a final wobbly step she lays down on Onyx's hand, then not sure if she is speaking to Hamlet or the world in general she says* Please...just let me feel better...
Onyx: *lifts her out of the habitat and strokes her head gently*
Amelia: Here's the medicine. *hands him a very tiny little pill*
Onyx: *nods and puts it into the little hamster's mouth without much struggle, then pets her head again*
Amelia: *reaches in and gives one to Hamlet which he willingly takes*
Orion: *approaches Onyx and looks at the little hamster* Can I pet her...?
Onyx: You can try. *turns to face Orion, holding the little hamster close*
Orion: *carefully reaches out and pets the hamster, stooping down to eye level with her* Hello... *pets her for another moment more then stops*
Onyx: Okay... *places her back in the habitat*
Alexander: Well, let's go grab some supplies to head to the jungle... then we should go back to the hotel and rest up before we go to the jungle. And we should leave the little hamster at the hotel obviously... Hamlet can stay with her.
Meg: *nods and standing lifts the cage carefully* OK, if it's alright, I think I'll take Hamlet and her...*frowns a little* back to the hotel now. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome but I just don't think it's a great idea for us to drag her all over the bazaar. She's pretty stressed.
Alexander: Okay guys, I'll go grab the supplies we need for the jungle and the rest of you can go back to the hotel... I won't be long.
Onyx: *nods* Okay. Let's go, everyone.
*everyone except Alexander heads back to the hotel*
*once everyone gets to the top of the elevator and in the hall...*
Amelia: Alright... who's room is the hamster going to stay in...?
Meg: Well, technically you and Onyx adopted her... and Hamlet is your hamster as well. It makes the most sense for them to stay in your room. *A little reluctantly she goes to hand the habitat over to Amelia*
Onyx: Well, we adopted her but... if someone else wants to take her... that would be fine. I just wanted to make sure she had a home...
Amelia: *nods in agreement* And you were the one who found her... you sure you don't want her to stay with you? *smiles*
Meg: *feeling a little sheepish* I would like her to... *glances at Fang* ...would you mind...? I know it's odd but something is telling me she needed someone...and I just have a connection with her. *does her best impression of puppy dog eyes* Please...?
Fang: *sighs and nods a little* Alright... fine... *smiles*
Amelia: Then it's settled. She's staying with you for now. Why don't you go put you in her room...? Then maybe Hamlet can tell us her name now that no one else is around...
Hamlet: *tiny hamster nod*
Meg: *smiles brightly at Fang* Thank you.
*takes the hamsters to their room and sets the habitat down on one of the worn dressers in the room*
Ophelia: *feeling a little more clear headed now that she took the medicine, curiously sniffs the air* Hamlet... where are we now...? I don't know this place...
Meg: *leans over and looks into the habitat a gentle smile on her face* Hey, there, little one... well, I guess I should ask Hamlet what your name is. I can't call you 'Little One' forever can I? Hamlet... did she tell you her name? Or... what she would like to be called?
Hamlet: We're at the hotel... where everyone is staying. We're on vacation here. *sighs a little and approaches the habitat door... somehow managing to open the door on his own* Excuse me for a moment...? I want to stretch my legs... *jumps out of the habitat and transforms into a human not thinking Ophelia will freak out...*
She said... she wants her name to be Ophelia. *smiles and stretches a little* Such a small habitat... and I've gotten used to being a human...
*There's a knock on the door*
Hamlet: *glances over at the door* ...?
k
Jaci: *Quietly* Hamlet? Can we talk?
Hamlet: *frowns and looks away from the door, muttering* I don't want to... *but he sighs and walks over to the door, opening it just a little* What do you want?
Jaci: Can we talk... *Looks at him with loong hazel eyes* ...Please?
Meg: Ophelia...huh. What are the odds?
*looks up as someone knocks on the door and frowns when she realizes it's Jaci but she realizes it's not her place to interfere. Suddenly, notices a squeaking and looks over at Ophelia*
Ophelia: *was frozen but has begun freaking out* He's a human! Oh my creator...But he was a hamster! Oh my creator...have I gone mad?
Meg: *can see Ophelia is squeaking and running in circles* Uh...Ophelia...
*she leans down and leans close to the habitat door which is still open.* Ophelia...it's OK...
Ophelia: *looks at Meg, not understanding the words but hearing her name she stops and stares frozen like a statue her little nose frantically sniffing the air* ...are you even real...? Maybe I'm already dead. Hamsters don't change into humans. But...the lady knows my name...only Hamlet knows that...
Hamlet: *glances over his shoulder at Ophelia before looking back to Jaci with a scowl* ...Fine. You've got five minutes. If you can't tell... I'm busy right now.
Jaci: I didn't mean to hurt you, Hamlet. *Frowns* I wasn't expecting that reaction from you...
Hamlet: *sighs* I thought you... liked me... but apparently not enough to matter, because you're flirting with people you just met. *frowns and looks away* And you can't tell me you're sorry and think that will fix it... Because now I know you don't like me enough to not want to flirt with other guys and an apology won't change that.
Jaci: I do like you, Hamlet. A lot. *She looks for his eyes* You didn't tell me you wanted something serious...
Hamlet: Well... that's okay, Jaci, because I don't want something serious. *he meets her gaze with a cold stare* If you really liked me, you wouldn't have done that. *and with that he turns away from her* This conversation is over.
Jaci: *Hurt, she takes a deep breath* As you wish. *She turns around and leaves*
Hamlet: *after she leaves he turns to shut the door though he ends up slamming it before bursting into tears, forgetting Meg and Ophelia are right behind him*
Jaci: *As she hears the door shut, she feels her heart getting heavy* *Swallows and mutters something before locking herself in her room*
Meg: *still looking around, the energy isn't coming from the shop worker. She's surprised when everyone else enters the shop behind her. She smiles at Fang but then distractedly wanders looking for the source.* It's a place people come to welcome a...pet...into their family...
*she suddenly is sure she knows where the energy is and walks to a corner of the shop. There are exotic chinchillas and seemingly hundreds of mice but kneeling down she sees a habit that houses a single, small...hamster. It's black and white and curled righting into itself and shivering despite the warmth of the crowded store.* You...little one...you're calling me...
Shelter Worker: *frowns as she sees Meg approach the small hamster and she follows her* She... is very sick. I am the only person who operates this shelter... these are all animals I have taken in. My shelter isn't getting donations... I barely have money to care for the healthy animals... *kneels down by her* I don't have the money to continue her treatment. If someone does not take her... I will have no choice put to put her to sleep. But no one is interested... her condition is only worsening and I fear we can't wait any longer before making that decision. If she isn't adopted by the end of the day... *her voice trails off*
Orion: *over petting a puppy for adoption and getting licked in the face* Haha... cut it out!
Skylar: *smiling warmly at Orion's encounter but she turns when the worker says they may have to put the hamster to sleep* ...
Orion: *puts the puppy back into the playpen and turns as well* *quietly* No, we can't let that happen...
Onyx: You're right. *He frowns* Ma'am, how much to adopt her?
Shelter Worker: Hamster adoptions are $25... can you afford her care? The veterinarian is just next door. Her treatment will cost $150... So much for such a tiny creature... *tearing up a little*
Onyx: Then it's settled... we are taking her straight to the vet to get her taken care of. *smiles* And you said your shelter isn't getting donations? I would like to make a donation.
Orion: Me too. *glances at Skylar and she gives an approving nod*
Shelter Worker: Thank you...! Cash or check is fine...
Orion: *reaches into his pocket and grabs a wallet, flipping through his money* ... *hands the shelter worker $250* I-I... *tries to swallow his shyness* ...know it isn't much but I hope it helps...
Shelter Worker: T-two hundred and fifty... thank you...!
Onyx: I'll need my checkbook... *turns to Amelia* You brought our checks right?
Amelia: *has a crossbody bag around her, she nods* Yes.
Onyx: *walks closer to her and they discuss among themselves how much to donate*
*they write a check and Amelia hands it to her*
Shelter Worker: *reads the amount and lets out a shriek before bursting into sobs* A... h-hun...hundred... thou...sand...!?!?
Onyx: I hope that can fund the repairs and upgrades your shelter needs. *smiles warmly*
Meg: *looks at the worker and opens her mouth when she says they'll have to put her down but she doesn't get to say a word before, Onyx says they'll adopt her she nods her head.*
*Turning back she smiles at the little Hamster and quietly says* You hear that little one...you're going to be OK...
Little Hamster: *cautious opens her eyes, they are red an unusual trait in such a dark hamster, although her base fur is white with black spots*
Meg: Hi...I'm Meg...
*she reaches out a hand and puts a finger on the habitat wall*
Little Hamster: *cringes curly tight again*
Meg: *takes back her finger and smiles* I'm going to have to move you a little...we're going to take you to see the doctor...OK?
*reaching out Meg gently lifts the habitat trying not to jostle her much and looks at the worker* Um... is this habitat OK for now? We're only going to be in Selvadorado for a little while but I want her to be comfortable... and we need some food too.
Shelter Worker: *grabs a bag of food from the shelf* The habitat should be fine for now... take the food no charge. *hands the bag to Onyx*
Onyx: *smiles and nods* Thank you. She will be taken care of, promise.
Hamlet: *finally makes his way to the center of the room and sees her, wide eyed* You got another hamster...!? *he grins from ear to ear*
Onyx: *smiles at Hamlet then looks at Meg* Come on, let's get her to the vet.
Meg: *smiles tentatively but she's worried about the little Hamster* Yeah, let's go.
*they all walk nextdoor to the vet*
Receptionist: May I help you?
Onyx: We need treatment for a sick hamster... she's in really bad shape...
Receptionist: *nods* We will put you down as an emergency. Sit and wait and you'll be called back as soon as we can.
*everyone sits*
Meg: *sits down on the chair holding onto the habitat tightly*
Little Hamster: *raises her head her little nose smelling the air*
Meg: *feels her chest constrict and she knows the Little Hamster is nervous although she's too exhausted to move* Hamlet...She's terrified. *looks over at him*
Could...you can talk to her...?
Hamlet: *he's been too surprised and even nervous to get too close to the fragile hamster but he smiles when Meg asks* Okay...
Onyx: Can you understand her in your human form? I'm worried you could catch what she has if you go into hamster form...
Hamlet: She might feel more comfortable if I'm a hamster. It's okay... I'll be okay. *makes sure the receptionist isn't looking and transforms into a hamster* Could you pick me up and put me in the habitat with her?
Orion: *sitting close by he stands up and lifts Hamlet into the habitat, stooping down to get a good look at the little hamster while he's at it. He smiles but figures he'll scare her so he just mutters a soft 'hello' to her and sits back down by Skylar*
Hamlet: *approaches the little hamster, speaking in... Hamsterlish?* Hello... it's okay, you don't have to be afraid. No one will hurt you.
Little Hamlet: *her breathing is fast and she looks over at Hamlet as the giant purple hand pulls back* How...do you know...we're in the place the pet shop lady brings me... they always poke and prod and nothing is ever better...I don't like it here...
*she buries her face in the sawdust, tired and terrified* I just...want to sleep...
Hamlet: My owners are going to pay for the treatment you need to get better now... okay? Don't go to sleep... *he comes closer* We want to help you... they're good people I promise. Everyone here is.
Little Hamster: *tilts her head to blink one red eye at Hamlet, if Hamsters could cry she would have tears in it* ...the pet shop lady wanted to help too......
*she tilts her head a little like she might be willing to believe Hamlet though, because maybe a part of her wants to believe him* ...but this might be different...? ...the lady holding the cage...seems different...so do you...
--
Meg: *wishing she spoke Hamsterlish watches Hamlet and the little Hamster anxiously. She glances up for a moment to look at Onyx* The doctor's not ready yet?
Hamlet: *nods* The lady wanted to help you too. But she couldn't pay for it... *looks away* So we stepped in to help. You'll be okay...
---
Onyx: *stands back up and approaches the desk* How much longer for the vet...?
Receptionist: You're next. It will only be a few minutes.
Onyx: *nods then sits back down* How is the hamster...?
Meg: *looks back at the hamsters* She's calmed down but...she's really tired. I don't like it.
*Quietly* Hold on, Little one...
--
Little Hamster: Hey Mr. Hamster...why do you smell like a human...?
Hamlet: Well... that's kind of complicated. I'm Hamlet, by the way. What's your name?
---
Veterinarian: *walks up to the group* A hamster emergency correct...? *he frowns*
Onyx: The shelter next door had this sick hamster and said it was too expensive to continue treatment...
Vet: Ahh... *nods* Did she forget to tell you what it was? Rabid Rodent Fever. The medication is very expensive and... the disease is highly contagious. Should you get bitten you will contract it and... your other hamster now most likely will contract it as well.
Amelia: *her eyes widen* Hamlet...!
Vet: I will give you medicine for both of them. They take it for three days, once a day, alright? *walks around to the other side of the counter and looks for medicine* ...here it is. *hands it to the receptionist* If her condition worsens... there is nothing more we can do. Have a good day. *walks back down the long hall of exam rooms*
Amelia: *walks up to the front desk*
Receptionist: *rings up the cost*
*Amelia pays then walks back to the others with a small bag containing the medicine* We need to dose them both... now.
Meg: *looks up feeling guilty* Both...? *looks down at Hamlet*
--
Little Hamster: ... Hamlet...? Well...
*she ducks her head, looking away from Hamlet* My old owners...they called me Ollie...
*pauses like she's waiting for Hamlet to tease her. When he doesn't she lifts her head* But...I always thought...I heard a name somewhere once...so pretty... if I could choose...Ophelia.
*she blinks obviously having trouble keeping thoughts straight* Pretty pretty Ophelia. Yep that's me...no more Ollie.
Hey, Mr. Omelette...is it warm in here...?
Amelia: *nods* It's contagious... we also have to make sure neither of them bite us. *frowns*
Onyx: Hamlet doesn't usually bite but... *frowns and looks down at the little hamster* I don't know about her.
Amelia: We'll just have to be extra careful...
---
Hamlet: ...two things... you don't need to call me Mr. and... Hamlet. Not Omelette... *he gives her a tiny rodent grin* Ophelia. I like that... my da-- er, owner loves Shakespeare... I think I remember an Ophelia in there somewhere. It's where he got Hamlet too.
---
Onyx: Here... I'll try... *opens the door to the habitat and slowly puts his hand in toward Ophelia* Hey... *smiles at her and very slowly moves his hand closer*
Meg: *sensing that Ophelia (still calling her Little Hamster in her mind) is losing touch with reality, she lays her hand on Onyx's wrist* The fever is taking hold...be very slow, give Hamlet time to talk her through it. She's scared more than anything else.
--
Ophelia: *seeing Onyx's hand and rears back, not to bite but to shy away* Hamlet--who is he...? I don't want to leave the habitat...outside the habitat... is scary....what is he doing...?
Onyx: *nods at Meg* I know. *he stops moving his hand closer for a moment*
---
Hamlet: It's okay. He's nice... he's one of my owners, Onyx. He won't hurt you... he's trying to help. See...? *he approaches Onyx's hand and sniffs it*
---
Onyx: *pats Hamlet's head with a finger and then reaches just a little further in toward the little hamster*
Meg:*watches intently looking for a sign that the little Hamster might bite*
---
Ophelia: *stops moving backwards, her head feels misty and she feels hot, but....* Okay...
*tentatively she wobbles forward, sniffing Onyx's hand* He...he seems OK.
*Taking a final wobbly step she lays down on Onyx's hand, then not sure if she is speaking to Hamlet or the world in general she says* Please...just let me feel better...
Onyx: *lifts her out of the habitat and strokes her head gently*
Amelia: Here's the medicine. *hands him a very tiny little pill*
Onyx: *nods and puts it into the little hamster's mouth without much struggle, then pets her head again*
Amelia: *reaches in and gives one to Hamlet which he willingly takes*
Orion: *approaches Onyx and looks at the little hamster* Can I pet her...?
Onyx: You can try. *turns to face Orion, holding the little hamster close*
Orion: *carefully reaches out and pets the hamster, stooping down to eye level with her* Hello... *pets her for another moment more then stops*
Onyx: Okay... *places her back in the habitat*
Alexander: Well, let's go grab some supplies to head to the jungle... then we should go back to the hotel and rest up before we go to the jungle. And we should leave the little hamster at the hotel obviously... Hamlet can stay with her.
Meg: *nods and standing lifts the cage carefully* OK, if it's alright, I think I'll take Hamlet and her...*frowns a little* back to the hotel now. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome but I just don't think it's a great idea for us to drag her all over the bazaar. She's pretty stressed.
Alexander: Okay guys, I'll go grab the supplies we need for the jungle and the rest of you can go back to the hotel... I won't be long.
Onyx: *nods* Okay. Let's go, everyone.
*everyone except Alexander heads back to the hotel*
*once everyone gets to the top of the elevator and in the hall...*
Amelia: Alright... who's room is the hamster going to stay in...?
Meg: Well, technically you and Onyx adopted her... and Hamlet is your hamster as well. It makes the most sense for them to stay in your room. *A little reluctantly she goes to hand the habitat over to Amelia*
Onyx: Well, we adopted her but... if someone else wants to take her... that would be fine. I just wanted to make sure she had a home...
Amelia: *nods in agreement* And you were the one who found her... you sure you don't want her to stay with you? *smiles*
Meg: *feeling a little sheepish* I would like her to... *glances at Fang* ...would you mind...? I know it's odd but something is telling me she needed someone...and I just have a connection with her. *does her best impression of puppy dog eyes* Please...?
Fang: *sighs and nods a little* Alright... fine... *smiles*
Amelia: Then it's settled. She's staying with you for now. Why don't you go put you in her room...? Then maybe Hamlet can tell us her name now that no one else is around...
Hamlet: *tiny hamster nod*
Meg: *smiles brightly at Fang* Thank you.
*takes the hamsters to their room and sets the habitat down on one of the worn dressers in the room*
Ophelia: *feeling a little more clear headed now that she took the medicine, curiously sniffs the air* Hamlet... where are we now...? I don't know this place...
Meg: *leans over and looks into the habitat a gentle smile on her face* Hey, there, little one... well, I guess I should ask Hamlet what your name is. I can't call you 'Little One' forever can I? Hamlet... did she tell you her name? Or... what she would like to be called?
Hamlet: We're at the hotel... where everyone is staying. We're on vacation here. *sighs a little and approaches the habitat door... somehow managing to open the door on his own* Excuse me for a moment...? I want to stretch my legs... *jumps out of the habitat and transforms into a human not thinking Ophelia will freak out...*
She said... she wants her name to be Ophelia. *smiles and stretches a little* Such a small habitat... and I've gotten used to being a human...
*There's a knock on the door*
Hamlet: *glances over at the door* ...?
k
Jaci: *Quietly* Hamlet? Can we talk?
Hamlet: *frowns and looks away from the door, muttering* I don't want to... *but he sighs and walks over to the door, opening it just a little* What do you want?
Jaci: Can we talk... *Looks at him with loong hazel eyes* ...Please?
Meg: Ophelia...huh. What are the odds?
*looks up as someone knocks on the door and frowns when she realizes it's Jaci but she realizes it's not her place to interfere. Suddenly, notices a squeaking and looks over at Ophelia*
Ophelia: *was frozen but has begun freaking out* He's a human! Oh my creator...But he was a hamster! Oh my creator...have I gone mad?
Meg: *can see Ophelia is squeaking and running in circles* Uh...Ophelia...
*she leans down and leans close to the habitat door which is still open.* Ophelia...it's OK...
Ophelia: *looks at Meg, not understanding the words but hearing her name she stops and stares frozen like a statue her little nose frantically sniffing the air* ...are you even real...? Maybe I'm already dead. Hamsters don't change into humans. But...the lady knows my name...only Hamlet knows that...
Hamlet: *glances over his shoulder at Ophelia before looking back to Jaci with a scowl* ...Fine. You've got five minutes. If you can't tell... I'm busy right now.
Jaci: I didn't mean to hurt you, Hamlet. *Frowns* I wasn't expecting that reaction from you...
Hamlet: *sighs* I thought you... liked me... but apparently not enough to matter, because you're flirting with people you just met. *frowns and looks away* And you can't tell me you're sorry and think that will fix it... Because now I know you don't like me enough to not want to flirt with other guys and an apology won't change that.
Jaci: I do like you, Hamlet. A lot. *She looks for his eyes* You didn't tell me you wanted something serious...
Hamlet: Well... that's okay, Jaci, because I don't want something serious. *he meets her gaze with a cold stare* If you really liked me, you wouldn't have done that. *and with that he turns away from her* This conversation is over.
Jaci: *Hurt, she takes a deep breath* As you wish. *She turns around and leaves*
Hamlet: *after she leaves he turns to shut the door though he ends up slamming it before bursting into tears, forgetting Meg and Ophelia are right behind him*
*Meg and Ophelia have been staring at each other not really sure what to do. When Hamlet closes the door Meg turns to look at him*
Meg: ...hey.... *sits back on her knees* ....you.... want to talk...?
*glances at Ophelia but she has sort of huddled down in the sawdust and is watching the two quietly*
Ophelia calmed down. I think, you may have worried her when you shifted without warning...
Meg: *still looking around, the energy isn't coming from the shop worker. She's surprised when everyone else enters the shop behind her. She smiles at Fang but then distractedly wanders looking for the source.* It's a place people come to welcome a...pet...into their family...
*she suddenly is sure she knows where the energy is and walks to a corner of the shop. There are exotic chinchillas and seemingly hundreds of mice but kneeling down she sees a habit that houses a single, small...hamster. It's black and white and curled righting into itself and shivering despite the warmth of the crowded store.* You...little one...you're calling me...
Shelter Worker: *frowns as she sees Meg approach the small hamster and she follows her* She... is very sick. I am the only person who operates this shelter... these are all animals I have taken in. My shelter isn't getting donations... I barely have money to care for the healthy animals... *kneels down by her* I don't have the money to continue her treatment. If someone does not take her... I will have no choice put to put her to sleep. But no one is interested... her condition is only worsening and I fear we can't wait any longer before making that decision. If she isn't adopted by the end of the day... *her voice trails off*
Orion: *over petting a puppy for adoption and getting licked in the face* Haha... cut it out!
Skylar: *smiling warmly at Orion's encounter but she turns when the worker says they may have to put the hamster to sleep* ...
Orion: *puts the puppy back into the playpen and turns as well* *quietly* No, we can't let that happen...
Onyx: You're right. *He frowns* Ma'am, how much to adopt her?
Shelter Worker: Hamster adoptions are $25... can you afford her care? The veterinarian is just next door. Her treatment will cost $150... So much for such a tiny creature... *tearing up a little*
Onyx: Then it's settled... we are taking her straight to the vet to get her taken care of. *smiles* And you said your shelter isn't getting donations? I would like to make a donation.
Orion: Me too. *glances at Skylar and she gives an approving nod*
Shelter Worker: Thank you...! Cash or check is fine...
Orion: *reaches into his pocket and grabs a wallet, flipping through his money* ... *hands the shelter worker $250* I-I... *tries to swallow his shyness* ...know it isn't much but I hope it helps...
Shelter Worker: T-two hundred and fifty... thank you...!
Onyx: I'll need my checkbook... *turns to Amelia* You brought our checks right?
Amelia: *has a crossbody bag around her, she nods* Yes.
Onyx: *walks closer to her and they discuss among themselves how much to donate*
*they write a check and Amelia hands it to her*
Shelter Worker: *reads the amount and lets out a shriek before bursting into sobs* A... h-hun...hundred... thou...sand...!?!?
Onyx: I hope that can fund the repairs and upgrades your shelter needs. *smiles warmly*
Meg: *looks at the worker and opens her mouth when she says they'll have to put her down but she doesn't get to say a word before, Onyx says they'll adopt her she nods her head.*
*Turning back she smiles at the little Hamster and quietly says* You hear that little one...you're going to be OK...
Little Hamster: *cautious opens her eyes, they are red an unusual trait in such a dark hamster, although her base fur is white with black spots*
Meg: Hi...I'm Meg...
*she reaches out a hand and puts a finger on the habitat wall*
Little Hamster: *cringes curly tight again*
Meg: *takes back her finger and smiles* I'm going to have to move you a little...we're going to take you to see the doctor...OK?
*reaching out Meg gently lifts the habitat trying not to jostle her much and looks at the worker* Um... is this habitat OK for now? We're only going to be in Selvadorado for a little while but I want her to be comfortable... and we need some food too.
Shelter Worker: *grabs a bag of food from the shelf* The habitat should be fine for now... take the food no charge. *hands the bag to Onyx*
Onyx: *smiles and nods* Thank you. She will be taken care of, promise.
Hamlet: *finally makes his way to the center of the room and sees her, wide eyed* You got another hamster...!? *he grins from ear to ear*
Onyx: *smiles at Hamlet then looks at Meg* Come on, let's get her to the vet.
Meg: *smiles tentatively but she's worried about the little Hamster* Yeah, let's go.
*they all walk nextdoor to the vet*
Receptionist: May I help you?
Onyx: We need treatment for a sick hamster... she's in really bad shape...
Receptionist: *nods* We will put you down as an emergency. Sit and wait and you'll be called back as soon as we can.
*everyone sits*
Meg: *sits down on the chair holding onto the habitat tightly*
Little Hamster: *raises her head her little nose smelling the air*
Meg: *feels her chest constrict and she knows the Little Hamster is nervous although she's too exhausted to move* Hamlet...She's terrified. *looks over at him*
Could...you can talk to her...?
Hamlet: *he's been too surprised and even nervous to get too close to the fragile hamster but he smiles when Meg asks* Okay...
Onyx: Can you understand her in your human form? I'm worried you could catch what she has if you go into hamster form...
Hamlet: She might feel more comfortable if I'm a hamster. It's okay... I'll be okay. *makes sure the receptionist isn't looking and transforms into a hamster* Could you pick me up and put me in the habitat with her?
Orion: *sitting close by he stands up and lifts Hamlet into the habitat, stooping down to get a good look at the little hamster while he's at it. He smiles but figures he'll scare her so he just mutters a soft 'hello' to her and sits back down by Skylar*
Hamlet: *approaches the little hamster, speaking in... Hamsterlish?* Hello... it's okay, you don't have to be afraid. No one will hurt you.
Little Hamlet: *her breathing is fast and she looks over at Hamlet as the giant purple hand pulls back* How...do you know...we're in the place the pet shop lady brings me... they always poke and prod and nothing is ever better...I don't like it here...
*she buries her face in the sawdust, tired and terrified* I just...want to sleep...
Hamlet: My owners are going to pay for the treatment you need to get better now... okay? Don't go to sleep... *he comes closer* We want to help you... they're good people I promise. Everyone here is.
Little Hamster: *tilts her head to blink one red eye at Hamlet, if Hamsters could cry she would have tears in it* ...the pet shop lady wanted to help too......
*she tilts her head a little like she might be willing to believe Hamlet though, because maybe a part of her wants to believe him* ...but this might be different...? ...the lady holding the cage...seems different...so do you...
--
Meg: *wishing she spoke Hamsterlish watches Hamlet and the little Hamster anxiously. She glances up for a moment to look at Onyx* The doctor's not ready yet?
Hamlet: *nods* The lady wanted to help you too. But she couldn't pay for it... *looks away* So we stepped in to help. You'll be okay...
---
Onyx: *stands back up and approaches the desk* How much longer for the vet...?
Receptionist: You're next. It will only be a few minutes.
Onyx: *nods then sits back down* How is the hamster...?
Meg: *looks back at the hamsters* She's calmed down but...she's really tired. I don't like it.
*Quietly* Hold on, Little one...
--
Little Hamster: Hey Mr. Hamster...why do you smell like a human...?
Hamlet: Well... that's kind of complicated. I'm Hamlet, by the way. What's your name?
---
Veterinarian: *walks up to the group* A hamster emergency correct...? *he frowns*
Onyx: The shelter next door had this sick hamster and said it was too expensive to continue treatment...
Vet: Ahh... *nods* Did she forget to tell you what it was? Rabid Rodent Fever. The medication is very expensive and... the disease is highly contagious. Should you get bitten you will contract it and... your other hamster now most likely will contract it as well.
Amelia: *her eyes widen* Hamlet...!
Vet: I will give you medicine for both of them. They take it for three days, once a day, alright? *walks around to the other side of the counter and looks for medicine* ...here it is. *hands it to the receptionist* If her condition worsens... there is nothing more we can do. Have a good day. *walks back down the long hall of exam rooms*
Amelia: *walks up to the front desk*
Receptionist: *rings up the cost*
*Amelia pays then walks back to the others with a small bag containing the medicine* We need to dose them both... now.
Meg: *looks up feeling guilty* Both...? *looks down at Hamlet*
--
Little Hamster: ... Hamlet...? Well...
*she ducks her head, looking away from Hamlet* My old owners...they called me Ollie...
*pauses like she's waiting for Hamlet to tease her. When he doesn't she lifts her head* But...I always thought...I heard a name somewhere once...so pretty... if I could choose...Ophelia.
*she blinks obviously having trouble keeping thoughts straight* Pretty pretty Ophelia. Yep that's me...no more Ollie.
Hey, Mr. Omelette...is it warm in here...?
Amelia: *nods* It's contagious... we also have to make sure neither of them bite us. *frowns*
Onyx: Hamlet doesn't usually bite but... *frowns and looks down at the little hamster* I don't know about her.
Amelia: We'll just have to be extra careful...
---
Hamlet: ...two things... you don't need to call me Mr. and... Hamlet. Not Omelette... *he gives her a tiny rodent grin* Ophelia. I like that... my da-- er, owner loves Shakespeare... I think I remember an Ophelia in there somewhere. It's where he got Hamlet too.
---
Onyx: Here... I'll try... *opens the door to the habitat and slowly puts his hand in toward Ophelia* Hey... *smiles at her and very slowly moves his hand closer*
Meg: *sensing that Ophelia (still calling her Little Hamster in her mind) is losing touch with reality, she lays her hand on Onyx's wrist* The fever is taking hold...be very slow, give Hamlet time to talk her through it. She's scared more than anything else.
--
Ophelia: *seeing Onyx's hand and rears back, not to bite but to shy away* Hamlet--who is he...? I don't want to leave the habitat...outside the habitat... is scary....what is he doing...?
Onyx: *nods at Meg* I know. *he stops moving his hand closer for a moment*
---
Hamlet: It's okay. He's nice... he's one of my owners, Onyx. He won't hurt you... he's trying to help. See...? *he approaches Onyx's hand and sniffs it*
---
Onyx: *pats Hamlet's head with a finger and then reaches just a little further in toward the little hamster*
Meg:*watches intently looking for a sign that the little Hamster might bite*
---
Ophelia: *stops moving backwards, her head feels misty and she feels hot, but....* Okay...
*tentatively she wobbles forward, sniffing Onyx's hand* He...he seems OK.
*Taking a final wobbly step she lays down on Onyx's hand, then not sure if she is speaking to Hamlet or the world in general she says* Please...just let me feel better...
Onyx: *lifts her out of the habitat and strokes her head gently*
Amelia: Here's the medicine. *hands him a very tiny little pill*
Onyx: *nods and puts it into the little hamster's mouth without much struggle, then pets her head again*
Amelia: *reaches in and gives one to Hamlet which he willingly takes*
Orion: *approaches Onyx and looks at the little hamster* Can I pet her...?
Onyx: You can try. *turns to face Orion, holding the little hamster close*
Orion: *carefully reaches out and pets the hamster, stooping down to eye level with her* Hello... *pets her for another moment more then stops*
Onyx: Okay... *places her back in the habitat*
Alexander: Well, let's go grab some supplies to head to the jungle... then we should go back to the hotel and rest up before we go to the jungle. And we should leave the little hamster at the hotel obviously... Hamlet can stay with her.
Meg: *nods and standing lifts the cage carefully* OK, if it's alright, I think I'll take Hamlet and her...*frowns a little* back to the hotel now. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome but I just don't think it's a great idea for us to drag her all over the bazaar. She's pretty stressed.
Alexander: Okay guys, I'll go grab the supplies we need for the jungle and the rest of you can go back to the hotel... I won't be long.
Onyx: *nods* Okay. Let's go, everyone.
*everyone except Alexander heads back to the hotel*
*once everyone gets to the top of the elevator and in the hall...*
Amelia: Alright... who's room is the hamster going to stay in...?
Meg: Well, technically you and Onyx adopted her... and Hamlet is your hamster as well. It makes the most sense for them to stay in your room. *A little reluctantly she goes to hand the habitat over to Amelia*
Onyx: Well, we adopted her but... if someone else wants to take her... that would be fine. I just wanted to make sure she had a home...
Amelia: *nods in agreement* And you were the one who found her... you sure you don't want her to stay with you? *smiles*
Meg: *feeling a little sheepish* I would like her to... *glances at Fang* ...would you mind...? I know it's odd but something is telling me she needed someone...and I just have a connection with her. *does her best impression of puppy dog eyes* Please...?
Fang: *sighs and nods a little* Alright... fine... *smiles*
Amelia: Then it's settled. She's staying with you for now. Why don't you go put you in her room...? Then maybe Hamlet can tell us her name now that no one else is around...
Hamlet: *tiny hamster nod*
Meg: *smiles brightly at Fang* Thank you.
*takes the hamsters to their room and sets the habitat down on one of the worn dressers in the room*
Ophelia: *feeling a little more clear headed now that she took the medicine, curiously sniffs the air* Hamlet... where are we now...? I don't know this place...
Meg: *leans over and looks into the habitat a gentle smile on her face* Hey, there, little one... well, I guess I should ask Hamlet what your name is. I can't call you 'Little One' forever can I? Hamlet... did she tell you her name? Or... what she would like to be called?
Hamlet: We're at the hotel... where everyone is staying. We're on vacation here. *sighs a little and approaches the habitat door... somehow managing to open the door on his own* Excuse me for a moment...? I want to stretch my legs... *jumps out of the habitat and transforms into a human not thinking Ophelia will freak out...*
She said... she wants her name to be Ophelia. *smiles and stretches a little* Such a small habitat... and I've gotten used to being a human...
*There's a knock on the door*
Hamlet: *glances over at the door* ...?
k
Jaci: *Quietly* Hamlet? Can we talk?
Hamlet: *frowns and looks away from the door, muttering* I don't want to... *but he sighs and walks over to the door, opening it just a little* What do you want?
Jaci: Can we talk... *Looks at him with loong hazel eyes* ...Please?
Meg: Ophelia...huh. What are the odds?
*looks up as someone knocks on the door and frowns when she realizes it's Jaci but she realizes it's not her place to interfere. Suddenly, notices a squeaking and looks over at Ophelia*
Ophelia: *was frozen but has begun freaking out* He's a human! Oh my creator...But he was a hamster! Oh my creator...have I gone mad?
Meg: *can see Ophelia is squeaking and running in circles* Uh...Ophelia...
*she leans down and leans close to the habitat door which is still open.* Ophelia...it's OK...
Ophelia: *looks at Meg, not understanding the words but hearing her name she stops and stares frozen like a statue her little nose frantically sniffing the air* ...are you even real...? Maybe I'm already dead. Hamsters don't change into humans. But...the lady knows my name...only Hamlet knows that...
Hamlet: *glances over his shoulder at Ophelia before looking back to Jaci with a scowl* ...Fine. You've got five minutes. If you can't tell... I'm busy right now.
Jaci: I didn't mean to hurt you, Hamlet. *Frowns* I wasn't expecting that reaction from you...
Hamlet: *sighs* I thought you... liked me... but apparently not enough to matter, because you're flirting with people you just met. *frowns and looks away* And you can't tell me you're sorry and think that will fix it... Because now I know you don't like me enough to not want to flirt with other guys and an apology won't change that.
Jaci: I do like you, Hamlet. A lot. *She looks for his eyes* You didn't tell me you wanted something serious...
Hamlet: Well... that's okay, Jaci, because I don't want something serious. *he meets her gaze with a cold stare* If you really liked me, you wouldn't have done that. *and with that he turns away from her* This conversation is over.
Jaci: *Hurt, she takes a deep breath* As you wish. *She turns around and leaves*
Hamlet: *after she leaves he turns to shut the door though he ends up slamming it before bursting into tears, forgetting Meg and Ophelia are right behind him*
*Meg and Ophelia have been staring at each other not really sure what to do. When Hamlet closes the door Meg turns to look at him*
Meg: ...hey.... *sits back on her knees* ....you.... want to talk...?
*glances at Ophelia but she has sort of huddled down in the sawdust and is watching the two quietly*
Ophelia calmed down. I think, you may have worried her when you shifted without warning...
Hamlet: *wipes his eyes when he realizes Meg is there* ...I just... *he slides down to the ground in defeat, sitting with his knees drawn to his chin and his arms wrapped tightly around his legs, facing Meg* ...I thought she liked me... I've been lonely for so long and I feel so... rejected... *suddenly as he looks at Meg he feels a stronger pang in his heart and he looks away* Now that I'm finally free to be a human and make friends and... maybe even find love... I feel more alone than I ever have.
*He looks over at Ophelia* ...I didn't mean to scare her...
Nightshade: A Simlit || Blogspot || Forum Thread
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Meg: *still looking around, the energy isn't coming from the shop worker. She's surprised when everyone else enters the shop behind her. She smiles at Fang but then distractedly wanders looking for the source.* It's a place people come to welcome a...pet...into their family...
*she suddenly is sure she knows where the energy is and walks to a corner of the shop. There are exotic chinchillas and seemingly hundreds of mice but kneeling down she sees a habit that houses a single, small...hamster. It's black and white and curled righting into itself and shivering despite the warmth of the crowded store.* You...little one...you're calling me...
Shelter Worker: *frowns as she sees Meg approach the small hamster and she follows her* She... is very sick. I am the only person who operates this shelter... these are all animals I have taken in. My shelter isn't getting donations... I barely have money to care for the healthy animals... *kneels down by her* I don't have the money to continue her treatment. If someone does not take her... I will have no choice put to put her to sleep. But no one is interested... her condition is only worsening and I fear we can't wait any longer before making that decision. If she isn't adopted by the end of the day... *her voice trails off*
Orion: *over petting a puppy for adoption and getting licked in the face* Haha... cut it out!
Skylar: *smiling warmly at Orion's encounter but she turns when the worker says they may have to put the hamster to sleep* ...
Orion: *puts the puppy back into the playpen and turns as well* *quietly* No, we can't let that happen...
Onyx: You're right. *He frowns* Ma'am, how much to adopt her?
Shelter Worker: Hamster adoptions are $25... can you afford her care? The veterinarian is just next door. Her treatment will cost $150... So much for such a tiny creature... *tearing up a little*
Onyx: Then it's settled... we are taking her straight to the vet to get her taken care of. *smiles* And you said your shelter isn't getting donations? I would like to make a donation.
Orion: Me too. *glances at Skylar and she gives an approving nod*
Shelter Worker: Thank you...! Cash or check is fine...
Orion: *reaches into his pocket and grabs a wallet, flipping through his money* ... *hands the shelter worker $250* I-I... *tries to swallow his shyness* ...know it isn't much but I hope it helps...
Shelter Worker: T-two hundred and fifty... thank you...!
Onyx: I'll need my checkbook... *turns to Amelia* You brought our checks right?
Amelia: *has a crossbody bag around her, she nods* Yes.
Onyx: *walks closer to her and they discuss among themselves how much to donate*
*they write a check and Amelia hands it to her*
Shelter Worker: *reads the amount and lets out a shriek before bursting into sobs* A... h-hun...hundred... thou...sand...!?!?
Onyx: I hope that can fund the repairs and upgrades your shelter needs. *smiles warmly*
Meg: *looks at the worker and opens her mouth when she says they'll have to put her down but she doesn't get to say a word before, Onyx says they'll adopt her she nods her head.*
*Turning back she smiles at the little Hamster and quietly says* You hear that little one...you're going to be OK...
Little Hamster: *cautious opens her eyes, they are red an unusual trait in such a dark hamster, although her base fur is white with black spots*
Meg: Hi...I'm Meg...
*she reaches out a hand and puts a finger on the habitat wall*
Little Hamster: *cringes curly tight again*
Meg: *takes back her finger and smiles* I'm going to have to move you a little...we're going to take you to see the doctor...OK?
*reaching out Meg gently lifts the habitat trying not to jostle her much and looks at the worker* Um... is this habitat OK for now? We're only going to be in Selvadorado for a little while but I want her to be comfortable... and we need some food too.
Shelter Worker: *grabs a bag of food from the shelf* The habitat should be fine for now... take the food no charge. *hands the bag to Onyx*
Onyx: *smiles and nods* Thank you. She will be taken care of, promise.
Hamlet: *finally makes his way to the center of the room and sees her, wide eyed* You got another hamster...!? *he grins from ear to ear*
Onyx: *smiles at Hamlet then looks at Meg* Come on, let's get her to the vet.
Meg: *smiles tentatively but she's worried about the little Hamster* Yeah, let's go.
*they all walk nextdoor to the vet*
Receptionist: May I help you?
Onyx: We need treatment for a sick hamster... she's in really bad shape...
Receptionist: *nods* We will put you down as an emergency. Sit and wait and you'll be called back as soon as we can.
*everyone sits*
Meg: *sits down on the chair holding onto the habitat tightly*
Little Hamster: *raises her head her little nose smelling the air*
Meg: *feels her chest constrict and she knows the Little Hamster is nervous although she's too exhausted to move* Hamlet...She's terrified. *looks over at him*
Could...you can talk to her...?
Hamlet: *he's been too surprised and even nervous to get too close to the fragile hamster but he smiles when Meg asks* Okay...
Onyx: Can you understand her in your human form? I'm worried you could catch what she has if you go into hamster form...
Hamlet: She might feel more comfortable if I'm a hamster. It's okay... I'll be okay. *makes sure the receptionist isn't looking and transforms into a hamster* Could you pick me up and put me in the habitat with her?
Orion: *sitting close by he stands up and lifts Hamlet into the habitat, stooping down to get a good look at the little hamster while he's at it. He smiles but figures he'll scare her so he just mutters a soft 'hello' to her and sits back down by Skylar*
Hamlet: *approaches the little hamster, speaking in... Hamsterlish?* Hello... it's okay, you don't have to be afraid. No one will hurt you.
Little Hamlet: *her breathing is fast and she looks over at Hamlet as the giant purple hand pulls back* How...do you know...we're in the place the pet shop lady brings me... they always poke and prod and nothing is ever better...I don't like it here...
*she buries her face in the sawdust, tired and terrified* I just...want to sleep...
Hamlet: My owners are going to pay for the treatment you need to get better now... okay? Don't go to sleep... *he comes closer* We want to help you... they're good people I promise. Everyone here is.
Little Hamster: *tilts her head to blink one red eye at Hamlet, if Hamsters could cry she would have tears in it* ...the pet shop lady wanted to help too......
*she tilts her head a little like she might be willing to believe Hamlet though, because maybe a part of her wants to believe him* ...but this might be different...? ...the lady holding the cage...seems different...so do you...
--
Meg: *wishing she spoke Hamsterlish watches Hamlet and the little Hamster anxiously. She glances up for a moment to look at Onyx* The doctor's not ready yet?
Hamlet: *nods* The lady wanted to help you too. But she couldn't pay for it... *looks away* So we stepped in to help. You'll be okay...
---
Onyx: *stands back up and approaches the desk* How much longer for the vet...?
Receptionist: You're next. It will only be a few minutes.
Onyx: *nods then sits back down* How is the hamster...?
Meg: *looks back at the hamsters* She's calmed down but...she's really tired. I don't like it.
*Quietly* Hold on, Little one...
--
Little Hamster: Hey Mr. Hamster...why do you smell like a human...?
Hamlet: Well... that's kind of complicated. I'm Hamlet, by the way. What's your name?
---
Veterinarian: *walks up to the group* A hamster emergency correct...? *he frowns*
Onyx: The shelter next door had this sick hamster and said it was too expensive to continue treatment...
Vet: Ahh... *nods* Did she forget to tell you what it was? Rabid Rodent Fever. The medication is very expensive and... the disease is highly contagious. Should you get bitten you will contract it and... your other hamster now most likely will contract it as well.
Amelia: *her eyes widen* Hamlet...!
Vet: I will give you medicine for both of them. They take it for three days, once a day, alright? *walks around to the other side of the counter and looks for medicine* ...here it is. *hands it to the receptionist* If her condition worsens... there is nothing more we can do. Have a good day. *walks back down the long hall of exam rooms*
Amelia: *walks up to the front desk*
Receptionist: *rings up the cost*
*Amelia pays then walks back to the others with a small bag containing the medicine* We need to dose them both... now.
Meg: *looks up feeling guilty* Both...? *looks down at Hamlet*
--
Little Hamster: ... Hamlet...? Well...
*she ducks her head, looking away from Hamlet* My old owners...they called me Ollie...
*pauses like she's waiting for Hamlet to tease her. When he doesn't she lifts her head* But...I always thought...I heard a name somewhere once...so pretty... if I could choose...Ophelia.
*she blinks obviously having trouble keeping thoughts straight* Pretty pretty Ophelia. Yep that's me...no more Ollie.
Hey, Mr. Omelette...is it warm in here...?
Amelia: *nods* It's contagious... we also have to make sure neither of them bite us. *frowns*
Onyx: Hamlet doesn't usually bite but... *frowns and looks down at the little hamster* I don't know about her.
Amelia: We'll just have to be extra careful...
---
Hamlet: ...two things... you don't need to call me Mr. and... Hamlet. Not Omelette... *he gives her a tiny rodent grin* Ophelia. I like that... my da-- er, owner loves Shakespeare... I think I remember an Ophelia in there somewhere. It's where he got Hamlet too.
---
Onyx: Here... I'll try... *opens the door to the habitat and slowly puts his hand in toward Ophelia* Hey... *smiles at her and very slowly moves his hand closer*
Meg: *sensing that Ophelia (still calling her Little Hamster in her mind) is losing touch with reality, she lays her hand on Onyx's wrist* The fever is taking hold...be very slow, give Hamlet time to talk her through it. She's scared more than anything else.
--
Ophelia: *seeing Onyx's hand and rears back, not to bite but to shy away* Hamlet--who is he...? I don't want to leave the habitat...outside the habitat... is scary....what is he doing...?
Onyx: *nods at Meg* I know. *he stops moving his hand closer for a moment*
---
Hamlet: It's okay. He's nice... he's one of my owners, Onyx. He won't hurt you... he's trying to help. See...? *he approaches Onyx's hand and sniffs it*
---
Onyx: *pats Hamlet's head with a finger and then reaches just a little further in toward the little hamster*
Meg:*watches intently looking for a sign that the little Hamster might bite*
---
Ophelia: *stops moving backwards, her head feels misty and she feels hot, but....* Okay...
*tentatively she wobbles forward, sniffing Onyx's hand* He...he seems OK.
*Taking a final wobbly step she lays down on Onyx's hand, then not sure if she is speaking to Hamlet or the world in general she says* Please...just let me feel better...
Onyx: *lifts her out of the habitat and strokes her head gently*
Amelia: Here's the medicine. *hands him a very tiny little pill*
Onyx: *nods and puts it into the little hamster's mouth without much struggle, then pets her head again*
Amelia: *reaches in and gives one to Hamlet which he willingly takes*
Orion: *approaches Onyx and looks at the little hamster* Can I pet her...?
Onyx: You can try. *turns to face Orion, holding the little hamster close*
Orion: *carefully reaches out and pets the hamster, stooping down to eye level with her* Hello... *pets her for another moment more then stops*
Onyx: Okay... *places her back in the habitat*
Alexander: Well, let's go grab some supplies to head to the jungle... then we should go back to the hotel and rest up before we go to the jungle. And we should leave the little hamster at the hotel obviously... Hamlet can stay with her.
Meg: *nods and standing lifts the cage carefully* OK, if it's alright, I think I'll take Hamlet and her...*frowns a little* back to the hotel now. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome but I just don't think it's a great idea for us to drag her all over the bazaar. She's pretty stressed.
Alexander: Okay guys, I'll go grab the supplies we need for the jungle and the rest of you can go back to the hotel... I won't be long.
Onyx: *nods* Okay. Let's go, everyone.
*everyone except Alexander heads back to the hotel*
*once everyone gets to the top of the elevator and in the hall...*
Amelia: Alright... who's room is the hamster going to stay in...?
Meg: Well, technically you and Onyx adopted her... and Hamlet is your hamster as well. It makes the most sense for them to stay in your room. *A little reluctantly she goes to hand the habitat over to Amelia*
Onyx: Well, we adopted her but... if someone else wants to take her... that would be fine. I just wanted to make sure she had a home...
Amelia: *nods in agreement* And you were the one who found her... you sure you don't want her to stay with you? *smiles*
Meg: *feeling a little sheepish* I would like her to... *glances at Fang* ...would you mind...? I know it's odd but something is telling me she needed someone...and I just have a connection with her. *does her best impression of puppy dog eyes* Please...?
Fang: *sighs and nods a little* Alright... fine... *smiles*
Amelia: Then it's settled. She's staying with you for now. Why don't you go put you in her room...? Then maybe Hamlet can tell us her name now that no one else is around...
Hamlet: *tiny hamster nod*
Meg: *smiles brightly at Fang* Thank you.
*takes the hamsters to their room and sets the habitat down on one of the worn dressers in the room*
Ophelia: *feeling a little more clear headed now that she took the medicine, curiously sniffs the air* Hamlet... where are we now...? I don't know this place...
Meg: *leans over and looks into the habitat a gentle smile on her face* Hey, there, little one... well, I guess I should ask Hamlet what your name is. I can't call you 'Little One' forever can I? Hamlet... did she tell you her name? Or... what she would like to be called?
Hamlet: We're at the hotel... where everyone is staying. We're on vacation here. *sighs a little and approaches the habitat door... somehow managing to open the door on his own* Excuse me for a moment...? I want to stretch my legs... *jumps out of the habitat and transforms into a human not thinking Ophelia will freak out...*
She said... she wants her name to be Ophelia. *smiles and stretches a little* Such a small habitat... and I've gotten used to being a human...
*There's a knock on the door*
Hamlet: *glances over at the door* ...?
k
Jaci: *Quietly* Hamlet? Can we talk?
Hamlet: *frowns and looks away from the door, muttering* I don't want to... *but he sighs and walks over to the door, opening it just a little* What do you want?
Jaci: Can we talk... *Looks at him with loong hazel eyes* ...Please?
Meg: Ophelia...huh. What are the odds?
*looks up as someone knocks on the door and frowns when she realizes it's Jaci but she realizes it's not her place to interfere. Suddenly, notices a squeaking and looks over at Ophelia*
Ophelia: *was frozen but has begun freaking out* He's a human! Oh my creator...But he was a hamster! Oh my creator...have I gone mad?
Meg: *can see Ophelia is squeaking and running in circles* Uh...Ophelia...
*she leans down and leans close to the habitat door which is still open.* Ophelia...it's OK...
Ophelia: *looks at Meg, not understanding the words but hearing her name she stops and stares frozen like a statue her little nose frantically sniffing the air* ...are you even real...? Maybe I'm already dead. Hamsters don't change into humans. But...the lady knows my name...only Hamlet knows that...
Hamlet: *glances over his shoulder at Ophelia before looking back to Jaci with a scowl* ...Fine. You've got five minutes. If you can't tell... I'm busy right now.
Jaci: I didn't mean to hurt you, Hamlet. *Frowns* I wasn't expecting that reaction from you...
Hamlet: *sighs* I thought you... liked me... but apparently not enough to matter, because you're flirting with people you just met. *frowns and looks away* And you can't tell me you're sorry and think that will fix it... Because now I know you don't like me enough to not want to flirt with other guys and an apology won't change that.
Jaci: I do like you, Hamlet. A lot. *She looks for his eyes* You didn't tell me you wanted something serious...
Hamlet: Well... that's okay, Jaci, because I don't want something serious. *he meets her gaze with a cold stare* If you really liked me, you wouldn't have done that. *and with that he turns away from her* This conversation is over.
Jaci: *Hurt, she takes a deep breath* As you wish. *She turns around and leaves*
Hamlet: *after she leaves he turns to shut the door though he ends up slamming it before bursting into tears, forgetting Meg and Ophelia are right behind him*
*Meg and Ophelia have been staring at each other not really sure what to do. When Hamlet closes the door Meg turns to look at him*
Meg: ...hey.... *sits back on her knees* ....you.... want to talk...?
*glances at Ophelia but she has sort of huddled down in the sawdust and is watching the two quietly*
Ophelia calmed down. I think, you may have worried her when you shifted without warning...
Hamlet: *wipes his eyes when he realizes Meg is there* ...I just... *he slides down to the ground in defeat, sitting with his knees drawn to his chin and his arms wrapped tightly around his legs, facing Meg* ...I thought she liked me... I've been lonely for so long and I feel so... rejected... *suddenly as he looks at Meg he feels a stronger pang in his heart and he looks away* Now that I'm finally free to be a human and make friends and... maybe even find love... I feel more alone than I ever have.
*He looks over at Ophelia* ...I didn't mean to scare her...
Meg: *folding her hands in her lap and listening quietly, she watches him. She feels the pang he feels in her own heart. But she looks at Ophelia first.* She'll be OK. It's just something new...
*looking down she finally gets up the courage to look at him again* Hamlet...you're not alone. I will always be here as a friend to talk about whatever you want to talk about. And...truthfully, we never really talked about what happened. I know you said you were OK. But I know that's not true...and I really want us to be OK...
Meg: *still looking around, the energy isn't coming from the shop worker. She's surprised when everyone else enters the shop behind her. She smiles at Fang but then distractedly wanders looking for the source.* It's a place people come to welcome a...pet...into their family...
*she suddenly is sure she knows where the energy is and walks to a corner of the shop. There are exotic chinchillas and seemingly hundreds of mice but kneeling down she sees a habit that houses a single, small...hamster. It's black and white and curled righting into itself and shivering despite the warmth of the crowded store.* You...little one...you're calling me...
Shelter Worker: *frowns as she sees Meg approach the small hamster and she follows her* She... is very sick. I am the only person who operates this shelter... these are all animals I have taken in. My shelter isn't getting donations... I barely have money to care for the healthy animals... *kneels down by her* I don't have the money to continue her treatment. If someone does not take her... I will have no choice put to put her to sleep. But no one is interested... her condition is only worsening and I fear we can't wait any longer before making that decision. If she isn't adopted by the end of the day... *her voice trails off*
Orion: *over petting a puppy for adoption and getting licked in the face* Haha... cut it out!
Skylar: *smiling warmly at Orion's encounter but she turns when the worker says they may have to put the hamster to sleep* ...
Orion: *puts the puppy back into the playpen and turns as well* *quietly* No, we can't let that happen...
Onyx: You're right. *He frowns* Ma'am, how much to adopt her?
Shelter Worker: Hamster adoptions are $25... can you afford her care? The veterinarian is just next door. Her treatment will cost $150... So much for such a tiny creature... *tearing up a little*
Onyx: Then it's settled... we are taking her straight to the vet to get her taken care of. *smiles* And you said your shelter isn't getting donations? I would like to make a donation.
Orion: Me too. *glances at Skylar and she gives an approving nod*
Shelter Worker: Thank you...! Cash or check is fine...
Orion: *reaches into his pocket and grabs a wallet, flipping through his money* ... *hands the shelter worker $250* I-I... *tries to swallow his shyness* ...know it isn't much but I hope it helps...
Shelter Worker: T-two hundred and fifty... thank you...!
Onyx: I'll need my checkbook... *turns to Amelia* You brought our checks right?
Amelia: *has a crossbody bag around her, she nods* Yes.
Onyx: *walks closer to her and they discuss among themselves how much to donate*
*they write a check and Amelia hands it to her*
Shelter Worker: *reads the amount and lets out a shriek before bursting into sobs* A... h-hun...hundred... thou...sand...!?!?
Onyx: I hope that can fund the repairs and upgrades your shelter needs. *smiles warmly*
Meg: *looks at the worker and opens her mouth when she says they'll have to put her down but she doesn't get to say a word before, Onyx says they'll adopt her she nods her head.*
*Turning back she smiles at the little Hamster and quietly says* You hear that little one...you're going to be OK...
Little Hamster: *cautious opens her eyes, they are red an unusual trait in such a dark hamster, although her base fur is white with black spots*
Meg: Hi...I'm Meg...
*she reaches out a hand and puts a finger on the habitat wall*
Little Hamster: *cringes curly tight again*
Meg: *takes back her finger and smiles* I'm going to have to move you a little...we're going to take you to see the doctor...OK?
*reaching out Meg gently lifts the habitat trying not to jostle her much and looks at the worker* Um... is this habitat OK for now? We're only going to be in Selvadorado for a little while but I want her to be comfortable... and we need some food too.
Shelter Worker: *grabs a bag of food from the shelf* The habitat should be fine for now... take the food no charge. *hands the bag to Onyx*
Onyx: *smiles and nods* Thank you. She will be taken care of, promise.
Hamlet: *finally makes his way to the center of the room and sees her, wide eyed* You got another hamster...!? *he grins from ear to ear*
Onyx: *smiles at Hamlet then looks at Meg* Come on, let's get her to the vet.
Meg: *smiles tentatively but she's worried about the little Hamster* Yeah, let's go.
*they all walk nextdoor to the vet*
Receptionist: May I help you?
Onyx: We need treatment for a sick hamster... she's in really bad shape...
Receptionist: *nods* We will put you down as an emergency. Sit and wait and you'll be called back as soon as we can.
*everyone sits*
Meg: *sits down on the chair holding onto the habitat tightly*
Little Hamster: *raises her head her little nose smelling the air*
Meg: *feels her chest constrict and she knows the Little Hamster is nervous although she's too exhausted to move* Hamlet...She's terrified. *looks over at him*
Could...you can talk to her...?
Hamlet: *he's been too surprised and even nervous to get too close to the fragile hamster but he smiles when Meg asks* Okay...
Onyx: Can you understand her in your human form? I'm worried you could catch what she has if you go into hamster form...
Hamlet: She might feel more comfortable if I'm a hamster. It's okay... I'll be okay. *makes sure the receptionist isn't looking and transforms into a hamster* Could you pick me up and put me in the habitat with her?
Orion: *sitting close by he stands up and lifts Hamlet into the habitat, stooping down to get a good look at the little hamster while he's at it. He smiles but figures he'll scare her so he just mutters a soft 'hello' to her and sits back down by Skylar*
Hamlet: *approaches the little hamster, speaking in... Hamsterlish?* Hello... it's okay, you don't have to be afraid. No one will hurt you.
Little Hamlet: *her breathing is fast and she looks over at Hamlet as the giant purple hand pulls back* How...do you know...we're in the place the pet shop lady brings me... they always poke and prod and nothing is ever better...I don't like it here...
*she buries her face in the sawdust, tired and terrified* I just...want to sleep...
Hamlet: My owners are going to pay for the treatment you need to get better now... okay? Don't go to sleep... *he comes closer* We want to help you... they're good people I promise. Everyone here is.
Little Hamster: *tilts her head to blink one red eye at Hamlet, if Hamsters could cry she would have tears in it* ...the pet shop lady wanted to help too......
*she tilts her head a little like she might be willing to believe Hamlet though, because maybe a part of her wants to believe him* ...but this might be different...? ...the lady holding the cage...seems different...so do you...
--
Meg: *wishing she spoke Hamsterlish watches Hamlet and the little Hamster anxiously. She glances up for a moment to look at Onyx* The doctor's not ready yet?
Hamlet: *nods* The lady wanted to help you too. But she couldn't pay for it... *looks away* So we stepped in to help. You'll be okay...
---
Onyx: *stands back up and approaches the desk* How much longer for the vet...?
Receptionist: You're next. It will only be a few minutes.
Onyx: *nods then sits back down* How is the hamster...?
Meg: *looks back at the hamsters* She's calmed down but...she's really tired. I don't like it.
*Quietly* Hold on, Little one...
--
Little Hamster: Hey Mr. Hamster...why do you smell like a human...?
Hamlet: Well... that's kind of complicated. I'm Hamlet, by the way. What's your name?
---
Veterinarian: *walks up to the group* A hamster emergency correct...? *he frowns*
Onyx: The shelter next door had this sick hamster and said it was too expensive to continue treatment...
Vet: Ahh... *nods* Did she forget to tell you what it was? Rabid Rodent Fever. The medication is very expensive and... the disease is highly contagious. Should you get bitten you will contract it and... your other hamster now most likely will contract it as well.
Amelia: *her eyes widen* Hamlet...!
Vet: I will give you medicine for both of them. They take it for three days, once a day, alright? *walks around to the other side of the counter and looks for medicine* ...here it is. *hands it to the receptionist* If her condition worsens... there is nothing more we can do. Have a good day. *walks back down the long hall of exam rooms*
Amelia: *walks up to the front desk*
Receptionist: *rings up the cost*
*Amelia pays then walks back to the others with a small bag containing the medicine* We need to dose them both... now.
Meg: *looks up feeling guilty* Both...? *looks down at Hamlet*
--
Little Hamster: ... Hamlet...? Well...
*she ducks her head, looking away from Hamlet* My old owners...they called me Ollie...
*pauses like she's waiting for Hamlet to tease her. When he doesn't she lifts her head* But...I always thought...I heard a name somewhere once...so pretty... if I could choose...Ophelia.
*she blinks obviously having trouble keeping thoughts straight* Pretty pretty Ophelia. Yep that's me...no more Ollie.
Hey, Mr. Omelette...is it warm in here...?
Amelia: *nods* It's contagious... we also have to make sure neither of them bite us. *frowns*
Onyx: Hamlet doesn't usually bite but... *frowns and looks down at the little hamster* I don't know about her.
Amelia: We'll just have to be extra careful...
---
Hamlet: ...two things... you don't need to call me Mr. and... Hamlet. Not Omelette... *he gives her a tiny rodent grin* Ophelia. I like that... my da-- er, owner loves Shakespeare... I think I remember an Ophelia in there somewhere. It's where he got Hamlet too.
---
Onyx: Here... I'll try... *opens the door to the habitat and slowly puts his hand in toward Ophelia* Hey... *smiles at her and very slowly moves his hand closer*
Meg: *sensing that Ophelia (still calling her Little Hamster in her mind) is losing touch with reality, she lays her hand on Onyx's wrist* The fever is taking hold...be very slow, give Hamlet time to talk her through it. She's scared more than anything else.
--
Ophelia: *seeing Onyx's hand and rears back, not to bite but to shy away* Hamlet--who is he...? I don't want to leave the habitat...outside the habitat... is scary....what is he doing...?
Onyx: *nods at Meg* I know. *he stops moving his hand closer for a moment*
---
Hamlet: It's okay. He's nice... he's one of my owners, Onyx. He won't hurt you... he's trying to help. See...? *he approaches Onyx's hand and sniffs it*
---
Onyx: *pats Hamlet's head with a finger and then reaches just a little further in toward the little hamster*
Meg:*watches intently looking for a sign that the little Hamster might bite*
---
Ophelia: *stops moving backwards, her head feels misty and she feels hot, but....* Okay...
*tentatively she wobbles forward, sniffing Onyx's hand* He...he seems OK.
*Taking a final wobbly step she lays down on Onyx's hand, then not sure if she is speaking to Hamlet or the world in general she says* Please...just let me feel better...
Onyx: *lifts her out of the habitat and strokes her head gently*
Amelia: Here's the medicine. *hands him a very tiny little pill*
Onyx: *nods and puts it into the little hamster's mouth without much struggle, then pets her head again*
Amelia: *reaches in and gives one to Hamlet which he willingly takes*
Orion: *approaches Onyx and looks at the little hamster* Can I pet her...?
Onyx: You can try. *turns to face Orion, holding the little hamster close*
Orion: *carefully reaches out and pets the hamster, stooping down to eye level with her* Hello... *pets her for another moment more then stops*
Onyx: Okay... *places her back in the habitat*
Alexander: Well, let's go grab some supplies to head to the jungle... then we should go back to the hotel and rest up before we go to the jungle. And we should leave the little hamster at the hotel obviously... Hamlet can stay with her.
Meg: *nods and standing lifts the cage carefully* OK, if it's alright, I think I'll take Hamlet and her...*frowns a little* back to the hotel now. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome but I just don't think it's a great idea for us to drag her all over the bazaar. She's pretty stressed.
Alexander: Okay guys, I'll go grab the supplies we need for the jungle and the rest of you can go back to the hotel... I won't be long.
Onyx: *nods* Okay. Let's go, everyone.
*everyone except Alexander heads back to the hotel*
*once everyone gets to the top of the elevator and in the hall...*
Amelia: Alright... who's room is the hamster going to stay in...?
Meg: Well, technically you and Onyx adopted her... and Hamlet is your hamster as well. It makes the most sense for them to stay in your room. *A little reluctantly she goes to hand the habitat over to Amelia*
Onyx: Well, we adopted her but... if someone else wants to take her... that would be fine. I just wanted to make sure she had a home...
Amelia: *nods in agreement* And you were the one who found her... you sure you don't want her to stay with you? *smiles*
Meg: *feeling a little sheepish* I would like her to... *glances at Fang* ...would you mind...? I know it's odd but something is telling me she needed someone...and I just have a connection with her. *does her best impression of puppy dog eyes* Please...?
Fang: *sighs and nods a little* Alright... fine... *smiles*
Amelia: Then it's settled. She's staying with you for now. Why don't you go put you in her room...? Then maybe Hamlet can tell us her name now that no one else is around...
Hamlet: *tiny hamster nod*
Meg: *smiles brightly at Fang* Thank you.
*takes the hamsters to their room and sets the habitat down on one of the worn dressers in the room*
Ophelia: *feeling a little more clear headed now that she took the medicine, curiously sniffs the air* Hamlet... where are we now...? I don't know this place...
Meg: *leans over and looks into the habitat a gentle smile on her face* Hey, there, little one... well, I guess I should ask Hamlet what your name is. I can't call you 'Little One' forever can I? Hamlet... did she tell you her name? Or... what she would like to be called?
Hamlet: We're at the hotel... where everyone is staying. We're on vacation here. *sighs a little and approaches the habitat door... somehow managing to open the door on his own* Excuse me for a moment...? I want to stretch my legs... *jumps out of the habitat and transforms into a human not thinking Ophelia will freak out...*
She said... she wants her name to be Ophelia. *smiles and stretches a little* Such a small habitat... and I've gotten used to being a human...
*There's a knock on the door*
Hamlet: *glances over at the door* ...?
k
Jaci: *Quietly* Hamlet? Can we talk?
Hamlet: *frowns and looks away from the door, muttering* I don't want to... *but he sighs and walks over to the door, opening it just a little* What do you want?
Jaci: Can we talk... *Looks at him with loong hazel eyes* ...Please?
Meg: Ophelia...huh. What are the odds?
*looks up as someone knocks on the door and frowns when she realizes it's Jaci but she realizes it's not her place to interfere. Suddenly, notices a squeaking and looks over at Ophelia*
Ophelia: *was frozen but has begun freaking out* He's a human! Oh my creator...But he was a hamster! Oh my creator...have I gone mad?
Meg: *can see Ophelia is squeaking and running in circles* Uh...Ophelia...
*she leans down and leans close to the habitat door which is still open.* Ophelia...it's OK...
Ophelia: *looks at Meg, not understanding the words but hearing her name she stops and stares frozen like a statue her little nose frantically sniffing the air* ...are you even real...? Maybe I'm already dead. Hamsters don't change into humans. But...the lady knows my name...only Hamlet knows that...
Hamlet: *glances over his shoulder at Ophelia before looking back to Jaci with a scowl* ...Fine. You've got five minutes. If you can't tell... I'm busy right now.
Jaci: I didn't mean to hurt you, Hamlet. *Frowns* I wasn't expecting that reaction from you...
Hamlet: *sighs* I thought you... liked me... but apparently not enough to matter, because you're flirting with people you just met. *frowns and looks away* And you can't tell me you're sorry and think that will fix it... Because now I know you don't like me enough to not want to flirt with other guys and an apology won't change that.
Jaci: I do like you, Hamlet. A lot. *She looks for his eyes* You didn't tell me you wanted something serious...
Hamlet: Well... that's okay, Jaci, because I don't want something serious. *he meets her gaze with a cold stare* If you really liked me, you wouldn't have done that. *and with that he turns away from her* This conversation is over.
Jaci: *Hurt, she takes a deep breath* As you wish. *She turns around and leaves*
Hamlet: *after she leaves he turns to shut the door though he ends up slamming it before bursting into tears, forgetting Meg and Ophelia are right behind him*
*Meg and Ophelia have been staring at each other not really sure what to do. When Hamlet closes the door Meg turns to look at him*
Meg: ...hey.... *sits back on her knees* ....you.... want to talk...?
*glances at Ophelia but she has sort of huddled down in the sawdust and is watching the two quietly*
Ophelia calmed down. I think, you may have worried her when you shifted without warning...
Hamlet: *wipes his eyes when he realizes Meg is there* ...I just... *he slides down to the ground in defeat, sitting with his knees drawn to his chin and his arms wrapped tightly around his legs, facing Meg* ...I thought she liked me... I've been lonely for so long and I feel so... rejected... *suddenly as he looks at Meg he feels a stronger pang in his heart and he looks away* Now that I'm finally free to be a human and make friends and... maybe even find love... I feel more alone than I ever have.
*He looks over at Ophelia* ...I didn't mean to scare her...
Meg: *folding her hands in her lap and listening quietly, she watches him. She feels the pang he feels in her own heart. But she looks at Ophelia first.* She'll be OK. It's just something new...
*looking down she finally gets up the courage to look at him again* Hamlet...you're not alone. I will always be here as a friend to talk about whatever you want to talk about. And...truthfully, we never really talked about what happened. I know you said you were OK. But I know that's not true...and I really want us to be OK...
Hamlet: *He looks up at Meg with sad eyes* You want the honest truth? I really do feel alone. I feel like... you... *pauses* We were so close and then you abandoned me for Fang. And now the next friend I made pretended she was interested and then... She abandoned me for some guy too I guess.
*he looks down at the floor* I just want things to be how they were before. You were the first new friend I made... the first person I truly trusted to see my true form and I... I miss you. I was so stupid to think someone like Jaci would actually want someone like me... and I was stupid to imagine... us... *He shakes his head quickly and looks at her again, now silent*
Nightshade: A Simlit || Blogspot || Forum Thread
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Meg: *still looking around, the energy isn't coming from the shop worker. She's surprised when everyone else enters the shop behind her. She smiles at Fang but then distractedly wanders looking for the source.* It's a place people come to welcome a...pet...into their family...
*she suddenly is sure she knows where the energy is and walks to a corner of the shop. There are exotic chinchillas and seemingly hundreds of mice but kneeling down she sees a habit that houses a single, small...hamster. It's black and white and curled righting into itself and shivering despite the warmth of the crowded store.* You...little one...you're calling me...
Shelter Worker: *frowns as she sees Meg approach the small hamster and she follows her* She... is very sick. I am the only person who operates this shelter... these are all animals I have taken in. My shelter isn't getting donations... I barely have money to care for the healthy animals... *kneels down by her* I don't have the money to continue her treatment. If someone does not take her... I will have no choice put to put her to sleep. But no one is interested... her condition is only worsening and I fear we can't wait any longer before making that decision. If she isn't adopted by the end of the day... *her voice trails off*
Orion: *over petting a puppy for adoption and getting licked in the face* Haha... cut it out!
Skylar: *smiling warmly at Orion's encounter but she turns when the worker says they may have to put the hamster to sleep* ...
Orion: *puts the puppy back into the playpen and turns as well* *quietly* No, we can't let that happen...
Onyx: You're right. *He frowns* Ma'am, how much to adopt her?
Shelter Worker: Hamster adoptions are $25... can you afford her care? The veterinarian is just next door. Her treatment will cost $150... So much for such a tiny creature... *tearing up a little*
Onyx: Then it's settled... we are taking her straight to the vet to get her taken care of. *smiles* And you said your shelter isn't getting donations? I would like to make a donation.
Orion: Me too. *glances at Skylar and she gives an approving nod*
Shelter Worker: Thank you...! Cash or check is fine...
Orion: *reaches into his pocket and grabs a wallet, flipping through his money* ... *hands the shelter worker $250* I-I... *tries to swallow his shyness* ...know it isn't much but I hope it helps...
Shelter Worker: T-two hundred and fifty... thank you...!
Onyx: I'll need my checkbook... *turns to Amelia* You brought our checks right?
Amelia: *has a crossbody bag around her, she nods* Yes.
Onyx: *walks closer to her and they discuss among themselves how much to donate*
*they write a check and Amelia hands it to her*
Shelter Worker: *reads the amount and lets out a shriek before bursting into sobs* A... h-hun...hundred... thou...sand...!?!?
Onyx: I hope that can fund the repairs and upgrades your shelter needs. *smiles warmly*
Meg: *looks at the worker and opens her mouth when she says they'll have to put her down but she doesn't get to say a word before, Onyx says they'll adopt her she nods her head.*
*Turning back she smiles at the little Hamster and quietly says* You hear that little one...you're going to be OK...
Little Hamster: *cautious opens her eyes, they are red an unusual trait in such a dark hamster, although her base fur is white with black spots*
Meg: Hi...I'm Meg...
*she reaches out a hand and puts a finger on the habitat wall*
Little Hamster: *cringes curly tight again*
Meg: *takes back her finger and smiles* I'm going to have to move you a little...we're going to take you to see the doctor...OK?
*reaching out Meg gently lifts the habitat trying not to jostle her much and looks at the worker* Um... is this habitat OK for now? We're only going to be in Selvadorado for a little while but I want her to be comfortable... and we need some food too.
Shelter Worker: *grabs a bag of food from the shelf* The habitat should be fine for now... take the food no charge. *hands the bag to Onyx*
Onyx: *smiles and nods* Thank you. She will be taken care of, promise.
Hamlet: *finally makes his way to the center of the room and sees her, wide eyed* You got another hamster...!? *he grins from ear to ear*
Onyx: *smiles at Hamlet then looks at Meg* Come on, let's get her to the vet.
Meg: *smiles tentatively but she's worried about the little Hamster* Yeah, let's go.
*they all walk nextdoor to the vet*
Receptionist: May I help you?
Onyx: We need treatment for a sick hamster... she's in really bad shape...
Receptionist: *nods* We will put you down as an emergency. Sit and wait and you'll be called back as soon as we can.
*everyone sits*
Meg: *sits down on the chair holding onto the habitat tightly*
Little Hamster: *raises her head her little nose smelling the air*
Meg: *feels her chest constrict and she knows the Little Hamster is nervous although she's too exhausted to move* Hamlet...She's terrified. *looks over at him*
Could...you can talk to her...?
Hamlet: *he's been too surprised and even nervous to get too close to the fragile hamster but he smiles when Meg asks* Okay...
Onyx: Can you understand her in your human form? I'm worried you could catch what she has if you go into hamster form...
Hamlet: She might feel more comfortable if I'm a hamster. It's okay... I'll be okay. *makes sure the receptionist isn't looking and transforms into a hamster* Could you pick me up and put me in the habitat with her?
Orion: *sitting close by he stands up and lifts Hamlet into the habitat, stooping down to get a good look at the little hamster while he's at it. He smiles but figures he'll scare her so he just mutters a soft 'hello' to her and sits back down by Skylar*
Hamlet: *approaches the little hamster, speaking in... Hamsterlish?* Hello... it's okay, you don't have to be afraid. No one will hurt you.
Little Hamlet: *her breathing is fast and she looks over at Hamlet as the giant purple hand pulls back* How...do you know...we're in the place the pet shop lady brings me... they always poke and prod and nothing is ever better...I don't like it here...
*she buries her face in the sawdust, tired and terrified* I just...want to sleep...
Hamlet: My owners are going to pay for the treatment you need to get better now... okay? Don't go to sleep... *he comes closer* We want to help you... they're good people I promise. Everyone here is.
Little Hamster: *tilts her head to blink one red eye at Hamlet, if Hamsters could cry she would have tears in it* ...the pet shop lady wanted to help too......
*she tilts her head a little like she might be willing to believe Hamlet though, because maybe a part of her wants to believe him* ...but this might be different...? ...the lady holding the cage...seems different...so do you...
--
Meg: *wishing she spoke Hamsterlish watches Hamlet and the little Hamster anxiously. She glances up for a moment to look at Onyx* The doctor's not ready yet?
Hamlet: *nods* The lady wanted to help you too. But she couldn't pay for it... *looks away* So we stepped in to help. You'll be okay...
---
Onyx: *stands back up and approaches the desk* How much longer for the vet...?
Receptionist: You're next. It will only be a few minutes.
Onyx: *nods then sits back down* How is the hamster...?
Meg: *looks back at the hamsters* She's calmed down but...she's really tired. I don't like it.
*Quietly* Hold on, Little one...
--
Little Hamster: Hey Mr. Hamster...why do you smell like a human...?
Hamlet: Well... that's kind of complicated. I'm Hamlet, by the way. What's your name?
---
Veterinarian: *walks up to the group* A hamster emergency correct...? *he frowns*
Onyx: The shelter next door had this sick hamster and said it was too expensive to continue treatment...
Vet: Ahh... *nods* Did she forget to tell you what it was? Rabid Rodent Fever. The medication is very expensive and... the disease is highly contagious. Should you get bitten you will contract it and... your other hamster now most likely will contract it as well.
Amelia: *her eyes widen* Hamlet...!
Vet: I will give you medicine for both of them. They take it for three days, once a day, alright? *walks around to the other side of the counter and looks for medicine* ...here it is. *hands it to the receptionist* If her condition worsens... there is nothing more we can do. Have a good day. *walks back down the long hall of exam rooms*
Amelia: *walks up to the front desk*
Receptionist: *rings up the cost*
*Amelia pays then walks back to the others with a small bag containing the medicine* We need to dose them both... now.
Meg: *looks up feeling guilty* Both...? *looks down at Hamlet*
--
Little Hamster: ... Hamlet...? Well...
*she ducks her head, looking away from Hamlet* My old owners...they called me Ollie...
*pauses like she's waiting for Hamlet to tease her. When he doesn't she lifts her head* But...I always thought...I heard a name somewhere once...so pretty... if I could choose...Ophelia.
*she blinks obviously having trouble keeping thoughts straight* Pretty pretty Ophelia. Yep that's me...no more Ollie.
Hey, Mr. Omelette...is it warm in here...?
Amelia: *nods* It's contagious... we also have to make sure neither of them bite us. *frowns*
Onyx: Hamlet doesn't usually bite but... *frowns and looks down at the little hamster* I don't know about her.
Amelia: We'll just have to be extra careful...
---
Hamlet: ...two things... you don't need to call me Mr. and... Hamlet. Not Omelette... *he gives her a tiny rodent grin* Ophelia. I like that... my da-- er, owner loves Shakespeare... I think I remember an Ophelia in there somewhere. It's where he got Hamlet too.
---
Onyx: Here... I'll try... *opens the door to the habitat and slowly puts his hand in toward Ophelia* Hey... *smiles at her and very slowly moves his hand closer*
Meg: *sensing that Ophelia (still calling her Little Hamster in her mind) is losing touch with reality, she lays her hand on Onyx's wrist* The fever is taking hold...be very slow, give Hamlet time to talk her through it. She's scared more than anything else.
--
Ophelia: *seeing Onyx's hand and rears back, not to bite but to shy away* Hamlet--who is he...? I don't want to leave the habitat...outside the habitat... is scary....what is he doing...?
Onyx: *nods at Meg* I know. *he stops moving his hand closer for a moment*
---
Hamlet: It's okay. He's nice... he's one of my owners, Onyx. He won't hurt you... he's trying to help. See...? *he approaches Onyx's hand and sniffs it*
---
Onyx: *pats Hamlet's head with a finger and then reaches just a little further in toward the little hamster*
Meg:*watches intently looking for a sign that the little Hamster might bite*
---
Ophelia: *stops moving backwards, her head feels misty and she feels hot, but....* Okay...
*tentatively she wobbles forward, sniffing Onyx's hand* He...he seems OK.
*Taking a final wobbly step she lays down on Onyx's hand, then not sure if she is speaking to Hamlet or the world in general she says* Please...just let me feel better...
Onyx: *lifts her out of the habitat and strokes her head gently*
Amelia: Here's the medicine. *hands him a very tiny little pill*
Onyx: *nods and puts it into the little hamster's mouth without much struggle, then pets her head again*
Amelia: *reaches in and gives one to Hamlet which he willingly takes*
Orion: *approaches Onyx and looks at the little hamster* Can I pet her...?
Onyx: You can try. *turns to face Orion, holding the little hamster close*
Orion: *carefully reaches out and pets the hamster, stooping down to eye level with her* Hello... *pets her for another moment more then stops*
Onyx: Okay... *places her back in the habitat*
Alexander: Well, let's go grab some supplies to head to the jungle... then we should go back to the hotel and rest up before we go to the jungle. And we should leave the little hamster at the hotel obviously... Hamlet can stay with her.
Meg: *nods and standing lifts the cage carefully* OK, if it's alright, I think I'll take Hamlet and her...*frowns a little* back to the hotel now. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome but I just don't think it's a great idea for us to drag her all over the bazaar. She's pretty stressed.
Alexander: Okay guys, I'll go grab the supplies we need for the jungle and the rest of you can go back to the hotel... I won't be long.
Onyx: *nods* Okay. Let's go, everyone.
*everyone except Alexander heads back to the hotel*
*once everyone gets to the top of the elevator and in the hall...*
Amelia: Alright... who's room is the hamster going to stay in...?
Meg: Well, technically you and Onyx adopted her... and Hamlet is your hamster as well. It makes the most sense for them to stay in your room. *A little reluctantly she goes to hand the habitat over to Amelia*
Onyx: Well, we adopted her but... if someone else wants to take her... that would be fine. I just wanted to make sure she had a home...
Amelia: *nods in agreement* And you were the one who found her... you sure you don't want her to stay with you? *smiles*
Meg: *feeling a little sheepish* I would like her to... *glances at Fang* ...would you mind...? I know it's odd but something is telling me she needed someone...and I just have a connection with her. *does her best impression of puppy dog eyes* Please...?
Fang: *sighs and nods a little* Alright... fine... *smiles*
Amelia: Then it's settled. She's staying with you for now. Why don't you go put you in her room...? Then maybe Hamlet can tell us her name now that no one else is around...
Hamlet: *tiny hamster nod*
Meg: *smiles brightly at Fang* Thank you.
*takes the hamsters to their room and sets the habitat down on one of the worn dressers in the room*
Ophelia: *feeling a little more clear headed now that she took the medicine, curiously sniffs the air* Hamlet... where are we now...? I don't know this place...
Meg: *leans over and looks into the habitat a gentle smile on her face* Hey, there, little one... well, I guess I should ask Hamlet what your name is. I can't call you 'Little One' forever can I? Hamlet... did she tell you her name? Or... what she would like to be called?
Hamlet: We're at the hotel... where everyone is staying. We're on vacation here. *sighs a little and approaches the habitat door... somehow managing to open the door on his own* Excuse me for a moment...? I want to stretch my legs... *jumps out of the habitat and transforms into a human not thinking Ophelia will freak out...*
She said... she wants her name to be Ophelia. *smiles and stretches a little* Such a small habitat... and I've gotten used to being a human...
*There's a knock on the door*
Hamlet: *glances over at the door* ...?
k
Jaci: *Quietly* Hamlet? Can we talk?
Hamlet: *frowns and looks away from the door, muttering* I don't want to... *but he sighs and walks over to the door, opening it just a little* What do you want?
Jaci: Can we talk... *Looks at him with loong hazel eyes* ...Please?
Meg: Ophelia...huh. What are the odds?
*looks up as someone knocks on the door and frowns when she realizes it's Jaci but she realizes it's not her place to interfere. Suddenly, notices a squeaking and looks over at Ophelia*
Ophelia: *was frozen but has begun freaking out* He's a human! Oh my creator...But he was a hamster! Oh my creator...have I gone mad?
Meg: *can see Ophelia is squeaking and running in circles* Uh...Ophelia...
*she leans down and leans close to the habitat door which is still open.* Ophelia...it's OK...
Ophelia: *looks at Meg, not understanding the words but hearing her name she stops and stares frozen like a statue her little nose frantically sniffing the air* ...are you even real...? Maybe I'm already dead. Hamsters don't change into humans. But...the lady knows my name...only Hamlet knows that...
Hamlet: *glances over his shoulder at Ophelia before looking back to Jaci with a scowl* ...Fine. You've got five minutes. If you can't tell... I'm busy right now.
Jaci: I didn't mean to hurt you, Hamlet. *Frowns* I wasn't expecting that reaction from you...
Hamlet: *sighs* I thought you... liked me... but apparently not enough to matter, because you're flirting with people you just met. *frowns and looks away* And you can't tell me you're sorry and think that will fix it... Because now I know you don't like me enough to not want to flirt with other guys and an apology won't change that.
Jaci: I do like you, Hamlet. A lot. *She looks for his eyes* You didn't tell me you wanted something serious...
Hamlet: Well... that's okay, Jaci, because I don't want something serious. *he meets her gaze with a cold stare* If you really liked me, you wouldn't have done that. *and with that he turns away from her* This conversation is over.
Jaci: *Hurt, she takes a deep breath* As you wish. *She turns around and leaves*
Hamlet: *after she leaves he turns to shut the door though he ends up slamming it before bursting into tears, forgetting Meg and Ophelia are right behind him*
*Meg and Ophelia have been staring at each other not really sure what to do. When Hamlet closes the door Meg turns to look at him*
Meg: ...hey.... *sits back on her knees* ....you.... want to talk...?
*glances at Ophelia but she has sort of huddled down in the sawdust and is watching the two quietly*
Ophelia calmed down. I think, you may have worried her when you shifted without warning...
Hamlet: *wipes his eyes when he realizes Meg is there* ...I just... *he slides down to the ground in defeat, sitting with his knees drawn to his chin and his arms wrapped tightly around his legs, facing Meg* ...I thought she liked me... I've been lonely for so long and I feel so... rejected... *suddenly as he looks at Meg he feels a stronger pang in his heart and he looks away* Now that I'm finally free to be a human and make friends and... maybe even find love... I feel more alone than I ever have.
*He looks over at Ophelia* ...I didn't mean to scare her...
Meg: *folding her hands in her lap and listening quietly, she watches him. She feels the pang he feels in her own heart. But she looks at Ophelia first.* She'll be OK. It's just something new...
*looking down she finally gets up the courage to look at him again* Hamlet...you're not alone. I will always be here as a friend to talk about whatever you want to talk about. And...truthfully, we never really talked about what happened. I know you said you were OK. But I know that's not true...and I really want us to be OK...
Hamlet: *He looks up at Meg with sad eyes* You want the honest truth? I really do feel alone. I feel like... you... *pauses* We were so close and then you abandoned me for Fang. And now the next friend I made pretended she was interested and then... She abandoned me for some guy too I guess.
*he looks down at the floor* I just want things to be how they were before. You were the first new friend I made... the first person I truly trusted to see my true form and I... I miss you. I was so stupid to think someone like Jaci would actually want someone like me... and I was stupid to imagine... us... *He shakes his head quickly and looks at her again, now silent*
Meg: *meets his eyes* I never-I'm sorry that I hurt you. I didn't go looking to fall in love and then when I realized it was happening... and I realized how you felt... I didn't-- *she looks down* I still don't know how to not make it awkward... So I pulled away. *laughs a little at herself* I guess I thought if I pulled away I wouldn't hurt you...But I only made it worse.
After that...about the only time we were ever on the same page was when we were fighting with someone else...and even then... you didn't trust me anymore. It hurt that I had lost that but you had every right to not trust me. Still I... I missed what we had too.
*Fidgeting, she rings her hands in her lap* You're not stupid to want to be in love...it just... doesn't always come the way you think it will... *meeting his gaze again she looks up at him* But I know... that you will find someone. You're too good a catch to not to. You are a Nightshade after all.
*she lapses into silence then, her eyes dropping to her hands. She really wants to hug Hamlet, to ruffle his hair or do anything to let him know that she's there but she just... doesn't know what will be OK....*
Meg: *still looking around, the energy isn't coming from the shop worker. She's surprised when everyone else enters the shop behind her. She smiles at Fang but then distractedly wanders looking for the source.* It's a place people come to welcome a...pet...into their family...
*she suddenly is sure she knows where the energy is and walks to a corner of the shop. There are exotic chinchillas and seemingly hundreds of mice but kneeling down she sees a habit that houses a single, small...hamster. It's black and white and curled righting into itself and shivering despite the warmth of the crowded store.* You...little one...you're calling me...
Shelter Worker: *frowns as she sees Meg approach the small hamster and she follows her* She... is very sick. I am the only person who operates this shelter... these are all animals I have taken in. My shelter isn't getting donations... I barely have money to care for the healthy animals... *kneels down by her* I don't have the money to continue her treatment. If someone does not take her... I will have no choice put to put her to sleep. But no one is interested... her condition is only worsening and I fear we can't wait any longer before making that decision. If she isn't adopted by the end of the day... *her voice trails off*
Orion: *over petting a puppy for adoption and getting licked in the face* Haha... cut it out!
Skylar: *smiling warmly at Orion's encounter but she turns when the worker says they may have to put the hamster to sleep* ...
Orion: *puts the puppy back into the playpen and turns as well* *quietly* No, we can't let that happen...
Onyx: You're right. *He frowns* Ma'am, how much to adopt her?
Shelter Worker: Hamster adoptions are $25... can you afford her care? The veterinarian is just next door. Her treatment will cost $150... So much for such a tiny creature... *tearing up a little*
Onyx: Then it's settled... we are taking her straight to the vet to get her taken care of. *smiles* And you said your shelter isn't getting donations? I would like to make a donation.
Orion: Me too. *glances at Skylar and she gives an approving nod*
Shelter Worker: Thank you...! Cash or check is fine...
Orion: *reaches into his pocket and grabs a wallet, flipping through his money* ... *hands the shelter worker $250* I-I... *tries to swallow his shyness* ...know it isn't much but I hope it helps...
Shelter Worker: T-two hundred and fifty... thank you...!
Onyx: I'll need my checkbook... *turns to Amelia* You brought our checks right?
Amelia: *has a crossbody bag around her, she nods* Yes.
Onyx: *walks closer to her and they discuss among themselves how much to donate*
*they write a check and Amelia hands it to her*
Shelter Worker: *reads the amount and lets out a shriek before bursting into sobs* A... h-hun...hundred... thou...sand...!?!?
Onyx: I hope that can fund the repairs and upgrades your shelter needs. *smiles warmly*
Meg: *looks at the worker and opens her mouth when she says they'll have to put her down but she doesn't get to say a word before, Onyx says they'll adopt her she nods her head.*
*Turning back she smiles at the little Hamster and quietly says* You hear that little one...you're going to be OK...
Little Hamster: *cautious opens her eyes, they are red an unusual trait in such a dark hamster, although her base fur is white with black spots*
Meg: Hi...I'm Meg...
*she reaches out a hand and puts a finger on the habitat wall*
Little Hamster: *cringes curly tight again*
Meg: *takes back her finger and smiles* I'm going to have to move you a little...we're going to take you to see the doctor...OK?
*reaching out Meg gently lifts the habitat trying not to jostle her much and looks at the worker* Um... is this habitat OK for now? We're only going to be in Selvadorado for a little while but I want her to be comfortable... and we need some food too.
Shelter Worker: *grabs a bag of food from the shelf* The habitat should be fine for now... take the food no charge. *hands the bag to Onyx*
Onyx: *smiles and nods* Thank you. She will be taken care of, promise.
Hamlet: *finally makes his way to the center of the room and sees her, wide eyed* You got another hamster...!? *he grins from ear to ear*
Onyx: *smiles at Hamlet then looks at Meg* Come on, let's get her to the vet.
Meg: *smiles tentatively but she's worried about the little Hamster* Yeah, let's go.
*they all walk nextdoor to the vet*
Receptionist: May I help you?
Onyx: We need treatment for a sick hamster... she's in really bad shape...
Receptionist: *nods* We will put you down as an emergency. Sit and wait and you'll be called back as soon as we can.
*everyone sits*
Meg: *sits down on the chair holding onto the habitat tightly*
Little Hamster: *raises her head her little nose smelling the air*
Meg: *feels her chest constrict and she knows the Little Hamster is nervous although she's too exhausted to move* Hamlet...She's terrified. *looks over at him*
Could...you can talk to her...?
Hamlet: *he's been too surprised and even nervous to get too close to the fragile hamster but he smiles when Meg asks* Okay...
Onyx: Can you understand her in your human form? I'm worried you could catch what she has if you go into hamster form...
Hamlet: She might feel more comfortable if I'm a hamster. It's okay... I'll be okay. *makes sure the receptionist isn't looking and transforms into a hamster* Could you pick me up and put me in the habitat with her?
Orion: *sitting close by he stands up and lifts Hamlet into the habitat, stooping down to get a good look at the little hamster while he's at it. He smiles but figures he'll scare her so he just mutters a soft 'hello' to her and sits back down by Skylar*
Hamlet: *approaches the little hamster, speaking in... Hamsterlish?* Hello... it's okay, you don't have to be afraid. No one will hurt you.
Little Hamlet: *her breathing is fast and she looks over at Hamlet as the giant purple hand pulls back* How...do you know...we're in the place the pet shop lady brings me... they always poke and prod and nothing is ever better...I don't like it here...
*she buries her face in the sawdust, tired and terrified* I just...want to sleep...
Hamlet: My owners are going to pay for the treatment you need to get better now... okay? Don't go to sleep... *he comes closer* We want to help you... they're good people I promise. Everyone here is.
Little Hamster: *tilts her head to blink one red eye at Hamlet, if Hamsters could cry she would have tears in it* ...the pet shop lady wanted to help too......
*she tilts her head a little like she might be willing to believe Hamlet though, because maybe a part of her wants to believe him* ...but this might be different...? ...the lady holding the cage...seems different...so do you...
--
Meg: *wishing she spoke Hamsterlish watches Hamlet and the little Hamster anxiously. She glances up for a moment to look at Onyx* The doctor's not ready yet?
Hamlet: *nods* The lady wanted to help you too. But she couldn't pay for it... *looks away* So we stepped in to help. You'll be okay...
---
Onyx: *stands back up and approaches the desk* How much longer for the vet...?
Receptionist: You're next. It will only be a few minutes.
Onyx: *nods then sits back down* How is the hamster...?
Meg: *looks back at the hamsters* She's calmed down but...she's really tired. I don't like it.
*Quietly* Hold on, Little one...
--
Little Hamster: Hey Mr. Hamster...why do you smell like a human...?
Hamlet: Well... that's kind of complicated. I'm Hamlet, by the way. What's your name?
---
Veterinarian: *walks up to the group* A hamster emergency correct...? *he frowns*
Onyx: The shelter next door had this sick hamster and said it was too expensive to continue treatment...
Vet: Ahh... *nods* Did she forget to tell you what it was? Rabid Rodent Fever. The medication is very expensive and... the disease is highly contagious. Should you get bitten you will contract it and... your other hamster now most likely will contract it as well.
Amelia: *her eyes widen* Hamlet...!
Vet: I will give you medicine for both of them. They take it for three days, once a day, alright? *walks around to the other side of the counter and looks for medicine* ...here it is. *hands it to the receptionist* If her condition worsens... there is nothing more we can do. Have a good day. *walks back down the long hall of exam rooms*
Amelia: *walks up to the front desk*
Receptionist: *rings up the cost*
*Amelia pays then walks back to the others with a small bag containing the medicine* We need to dose them both... now.
Meg: *looks up feeling guilty* Both...? *looks down at Hamlet*
--
Little Hamster: ... Hamlet...? Well...
*she ducks her head, looking away from Hamlet* My old owners...they called me Ollie...
*pauses like she's waiting for Hamlet to tease her. When he doesn't she lifts her head* But...I always thought...I heard a name somewhere once...so pretty... if I could choose...Ophelia.
*she blinks obviously having trouble keeping thoughts straight* Pretty pretty Ophelia. Yep that's me...no more Ollie.
Hey, Mr. Omelette...is it warm in here...?
Amelia: *nods* It's contagious... we also have to make sure neither of them bite us. *frowns*
Onyx: Hamlet doesn't usually bite but... *frowns and looks down at the little hamster* I don't know about her.
Amelia: We'll just have to be extra careful...
---
Hamlet: ...two things... you don't need to call me Mr. and... Hamlet. Not Omelette... *he gives her a tiny rodent grin* Ophelia. I like that... my da-- er, owner loves Shakespeare... I think I remember an Ophelia in there somewhere. It's where he got Hamlet too.
---
Onyx: Here... I'll try... *opens the door to the habitat and slowly puts his hand in toward Ophelia* Hey... *smiles at her and very slowly moves his hand closer*
Meg: *sensing that Ophelia (still calling her Little Hamster in her mind) is losing touch with reality, she lays her hand on Onyx's wrist* The fever is taking hold...be very slow, give Hamlet time to talk her through it. She's scared more than anything else.
--
Ophelia: *seeing Onyx's hand and rears back, not to bite but to shy away* Hamlet--who is he...? I don't want to leave the habitat...outside the habitat... is scary....what is he doing...?
Onyx: *nods at Meg* I know. *he stops moving his hand closer for a moment*
---
Hamlet: It's okay. He's nice... he's one of my owners, Onyx. He won't hurt you... he's trying to help. See...? *he approaches Onyx's hand and sniffs it*
---
Onyx: *pats Hamlet's head with a finger and then reaches just a little further in toward the little hamster*
Meg:*watches intently looking for a sign that the little Hamster might bite*
---
Ophelia: *stops moving backwards, her head feels misty and she feels hot, but....* Okay...
*tentatively she wobbles forward, sniffing Onyx's hand* He...he seems OK.
*Taking a final wobbly step she lays down on Onyx's hand, then not sure if she is speaking to Hamlet or the world in general she says* Please...just let me feel better...
Onyx: *lifts her out of the habitat and strokes her head gently*
Amelia: Here's the medicine. *hands him a very tiny little pill*
Onyx: *nods and puts it into the little hamster's mouth without much struggle, then pets her head again*
Amelia: *reaches in and gives one to Hamlet which he willingly takes*
Orion: *approaches Onyx and looks at the little hamster* Can I pet her...?
Onyx: You can try. *turns to face Orion, holding the little hamster close*
Orion: *carefully reaches out and pets the hamster, stooping down to eye level with her* Hello... *pets her for another moment more then stops*
Onyx: Okay... *places her back in the habitat*
Alexander: Well, let's go grab some supplies to head to the jungle... then we should go back to the hotel and rest up before we go to the jungle. And we should leave the little hamster at the hotel obviously... Hamlet can stay with her.
Meg: *nods and standing lifts the cage carefully* OK, if it's alright, I think I'll take Hamlet and her...*frowns a little* back to the hotel now. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome but I just don't think it's a great idea for us to drag her all over the bazaar. She's pretty stressed.
Alexander: Okay guys, I'll go grab the supplies we need for the jungle and the rest of you can go back to the hotel... I won't be long.
Onyx: *nods* Okay. Let's go, everyone.
*everyone except Alexander heads back to the hotel*
*once everyone gets to the top of the elevator and in the hall...*
Amelia: Alright... who's room is the hamster going to stay in...?
Meg: Well, technically you and Onyx adopted her... and Hamlet is your hamster as well. It makes the most sense for them to stay in your room. *A little reluctantly she goes to hand the habitat over to Amelia*
Onyx: Well, we adopted her but... if someone else wants to take her... that would be fine. I just wanted to make sure she had a home...
Amelia: *nods in agreement* And you were the one who found her... you sure you don't want her to stay with you? *smiles*
Meg: *feeling a little sheepish* I would like her to... *glances at Fang* ...would you mind...? I know it's odd but something is telling me she needed someone...and I just have a connection with her. *does her best impression of puppy dog eyes* Please...?
Fang: *sighs and nods a little* Alright... fine... *smiles*
Amelia: Then it's settled. She's staying with you for now. Why don't you go put you in her room...? Then maybe Hamlet can tell us her name now that no one else is around...
Hamlet: *tiny hamster nod*
Meg: *smiles brightly at Fang* Thank you.
*takes the hamsters to their room and sets the habitat down on one of the worn dressers in the room*
Ophelia: *feeling a little more clear headed now that she took the medicine, curiously sniffs the air* Hamlet... where are we now...? I don't know this place...
Meg: *leans over and looks into the habitat a gentle smile on her face* Hey, there, little one... well, I guess I should ask Hamlet what your name is. I can't call you 'Little One' forever can I? Hamlet... did she tell you her name? Or... what she would like to be called?
Hamlet: We're at the hotel... where everyone is staying. We're on vacation here. *sighs a little and approaches the habitat door... somehow managing to open the door on his own* Excuse me for a moment...? I want to stretch my legs... *jumps out of the habitat and transforms into a human not thinking Ophelia will freak out...*
She said... she wants her name to be Ophelia. *smiles and stretches a little* Such a small habitat... and I've gotten used to being a human...
*There's a knock on the door*
Hamlet: *glances over at the door* ...?
k
Jaci: *Quietly* Hamlet? Can we talk?
Hamlet: *frowns and looks away from the door, muttering* I don't want to... *but he sighs and walks over to the door, opening it just a little* What do you want?
Jaci: Can we talk... *Looks at him with loong hazel eyes* ...Please?
Meg: Ophelia...huh. What are the odds?
*looks up as someone knocks on the door and frowns when she realizes it's Jaci but she realizes it's not her place to interfere. Suddenly, notices a squeaking and looks over at Ophelia*
Ophelia: *was frozen but has begun freaking out* He's a human! Oh my creator...But he was a hamster! Oh my creator...have I gone mad?
Meg: *can see Ophelia is squeaking and running in circles* Uh...Ophelia...
*she leans down and leans close to the habitat door which is still open.* Ophelia...it's OK...
Ophelia: *looks at Meg, not understanding the words but hearing her name she stops and stares frozen like a statue her little nose frantically sniffing the air* ...are you even real...? Maybe I'm already dead. Hamsters don't change into humans. But...the lady knows my name...only Hamlet knows that...
Hamlet: *glances over his shoulder at Ophelia before looking back to Jaci with a scowl* ...Fine. You've got five minutes. If you can't tell... I'm busy right now.
Jaci: I didn't mean to hurt you, Hamlet. *Frowns* I wasn't expecting that reaction from you...
Hamlet: *sighs* I thought you... liked me... but apparently not enough to matter, because you're flirting with people you just met. *frowns and looks away* And you can't tell me you're sorry and think that will fix it... Because now I know you don't like me enough to not want to flirt with other guys and an apology won't change that.
Jaci: I do like you, Hamlet. A lot. *She looks for his eyes* You didn't tell me you wanted something serious...
Hamlet: Well... that's okay, Jaci, because I don't want something serious. *he meets her gaze with a cold stare* If you really liked me, you wouldn't have done that. *and with that he turns away from her* This conversation is over.
Jaci: *Hurt, she takes a deep breath* As you wish. *She turns around and leaves*
Hamlet: *after she leaves he turns to shut the door though he ends up slamming it before bursting into tears, forgetting Meg and Ophelia are right behind him*
*Meg and Ophelia have been staring at each other not really sure what to do. When Hamlet closes the door Meg turns to look at him*
Meg: ...hey.... *sits back on her knees* ....you.... want to talk...?
*glances at Ophelia but she has sort of huddled down in the sawdust and is watching the two quietly*
Ophelia calmed down. I think, you may have worried her when you shifted without warning...
Hamlet: *wipes his eyes when he realizes Meg is there* ...I just... *he slides down to the ground in defeat, sitting with his knees drawn to his chin and his arms wrapped tightly around his legs, facing Meg* ...I thought she liked me... I've been lonely for so long and I feel so... rejected... *suddenly as he looks at Meg he feels a stronger pang in his heart and he looks away* Now that I'm finally free to be a human and make friends and... maybe even find love... I feel more alone than I ever have.
*He looks over at Ophelia* ...I didn't mean to scare her...
Meg: *folding her hands in her lap and listening quietly, she watches him. She feels the pang he feels in her own heart. But she looks at Ophelia first.* She'll be OK. It's just something new...
*looking down she finally gets up the courage to look at him again* Hamlet...you're not alone. I will always be here as a friend to talk about whatever you want to talk about. And...truthfully, we never really talked about what happened. I know you said you were OK. But I know that's not true...and I really want us to be OK...
Hamlet: *He looks up at Meg with sad eyes* You want the honest truth? I really do feel alone. I feel like... you... *pauses* We were so close and then you abandoned me for Fang. And now the next friend I made pretended she was interested and then... She abandoned me for some guy too I guess.
*he looks down at the floor* I just want things to be how they were before. You were the first new friend I made... the first person I truly trusted to see my true form and I... I miss you. I was so stupid to think someone like Jaci would actually want someone like me... and I was stupid to imagine... us... *He shakes his head quickly and looks at her again, now silent*
Meg: *meets his eyes* I never-I'm sorry that I hurt you. I didn't go looking to fall in love and then when I realized it was happening... and I realized how you felt... I didn't-- *she looks down* I still don't know how to not make it awkward... So I pulled away. *laughs a little at herself* I guess I thought if I pulled away I wouldn't hurt you...But I only made it worse.
After that...about the only time we were ever on the same page was when we were fighting with someone else...and even then... you didn't trust me anymore. It hurt that I had lost that but you had every right to not trust me. Still I... I missed what we had too.
*Fidgeting, she rings her hands in her lap* You're not stupid to want to be in love...it just... doesn't always come the way you think it will... *meeting his gaze again she looks up at him* But I know... that you will find someone. You're too good a catch to not to. You are a Nightshade after all.
*she lapses into silence then, her eyes dropping to her hands. She really wants to hug Hamlet, to ruffle his hair or do anything to let him know that she's there but she just... doesn't know what will be OK....*
Hamlet: *frowns* I never wanted you to back away... it just made me feel like... you didn't care about me anymore. *He meets her gaze and manages to smile* I guess I am a Nightshade, huh...? *laughs a little* Onyx is going to be disappointed you don't want to be a Nightshade too... But I guess... you'll end up being a Fang.
I don't want it to be awkward... I just want my best friend back. So let's stop thinking about the awkwardness and... just go back to the way we were before?
Nightshade: A Simlit || Blogspot || Forum Thread
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Meg: *still looking around, the energy isn't coming from the shop worker. She's surprised when everyone else enters the shop behind her. She smiles at Fang but then distractedly wanders looking for the source.* It's a place people come to welcome a...pet...into their family...
*she suddenly is sure she knows where the energy is and walks to a corner of the shop. There are exotic chinchillas and seemingly hundreds of mice but kneeling down she sees a habit that houses a single, small...hamster. It's black and white and curled righting into itself and shivering despite the warmth of the crowded store.* You...little one...you're calling me...
Shelter Worker: *frowns as she sees Meg approach the small hamster and she follows her* She... is very sick. I am the only person who operates this shelter... these are all animals I have taken in. My shelter isn't getting donations... I barely have money to care for the healthy animals... *kneels down by her* I don't have the money to continue her treatment. If someone does not take her... I will have no choice put to put her to sleep. But no one is interested... her condition is only worsening and I fear we can't wait any longer before making that decision. If she isn't adopted by the end of the day... *her voice trails off*
Orion: *over petting a puppy for adoption and getting licked in the face* Haha... cut it out!
Skylar: *smiling warmly at Orion's encounter but she turns when the worker says they may have to put the hamster to sleep* ...
Orion: *puts the puppy back into the playpen and turns as well* *quietly* No, we can't let that happen...
Onyx: You're right. *He frowns* Ma'am, how much to adopt her?
Shelter Worker: Hamster adoptions are $25... can you afford her care? The veterinarian is just next door. Her treatment will cost $150... So much for such a tiny creature... *tearing up a little*
Onyx: Then it's settled... we are taking her straight to the vet to get her taken care of. *smiles* And you said your shelter isn't getting donations? I would like to make a donation.
Orion: Me too. *glances at Skylar and she gives an approving nod*
Shelter Worker: Thank you...! Cash or check is fine...
Orion: *reaches into his pocket and grabs a wallet, flipping through his money* ... *hands the shelter worker $250* I-I... *tries to swallow his shyness* ...know it isn't much but I hope it helps...
Shelter Worker: T-two hundred and fifty... thank you...!
Onyx: I'll need my checkbook... *turns to Amelia* You brought our checks right?
Amelia: *has a crossbody bag around her, she nods* Yes.
Onyx: *walks closer to her and they discuss among themselves how much to donate*
*they write a check and Amelia hands it to her*
Shelter Worker: *reads the amount and lets out a shriek before bursting into sobs* A... h-hun...hundred... thou...sand...!?!?
Onyx: I hope that can fund the repairs and upgrades your shelter needs. *smiles warmly*
Meg: *looks at the worker and opens her mouth when she says they'll have to put her down but she doesn't get to say a word before, Onyx says they'll adopt her she nods her head.*
*Turning back she smiles at the little Hamster and quietly says* You hear that little one...you're going to be OK...
Little Hamster: *cautious opens her eyes, they are red an unusual trait in such a dark hamster, although her base fur is white with black spots*
Meg: Hi...I'm Meg...
*she reaches out a hand and puts a finger on the habitat wall*
Little Hamster: *cringes curly tight again*
Meg: *takes back her finger and smiles* I'm going to have to move you a little...we're going to take you to see the doctor...OK?
*reaching out Meg gently lifts the habitat trying not to jostle her much and looks at the worker* Um... is this habitat OK for now? We're only going to be in Selvadorado for a little while but I want her to be comfortable... and we need some food too.
Shelter Worker: *grabs a bag of food from the shelf* The habitat should be fine for now... take the food no charge. *hands the bag to Onyx*
Onyx: *smiles and nods* Thank you. She will be taken care of, promise.
Hamlet: *finally makes his way to the center of the room and sees her, wide eyed* You got another hamster...!? *he grins from ear to ear*
Onyx: *smiles at Hamlet then looks at Meg* Come on, let's get her to the vet.
Meg: *smiles tentatively but she's worried about the little Hamster* Yeah, let's go.
*they all walk nextdoor to the vet*
Receptionist: May I help you?
Onyx: We need treatment for a sick hamster... she's in really bad shape...
Receptionist: *nods* We will put you down as an emergency. Sit and wait and you'll be called back as soon as we can.
*everyone sits*
Meg: *sits down on the chair holding onto the habitat tightly*
Little Hamster: *raises her head her little nose smelling the air*
Meg: *feels her chest constrict and she knows the Little Hamster is nervous although she's too exhausted to move* Hamlet...She's terrified. *looks over at him*
Could...you can talk to her...?
Hamlet: *he's been too surprised and even nervous to get too close to the fragile hamster but he smiles when Meg asks* Okay...
Onyx: Can you understand her in your human form? I'm worried you could catch what she has if you go into hamster form...
Hamlet: She might feel more comfortable if I'm a hamster. It's okay... I'll be okay. *makes sure the receptionist isn't looking and transforms into a hamster* Could you pick me up and put me in the habitat with her?
Orion: *sitting close by he stands up and lifts Hamlet into the habitat, stooping down to get a good look at the little hamster while he's at it. He smiles but figures he'll scare her so he just mutters a soft 'hello' to her and sits back down by Skylar*
Hamlet: *approaches the little hamster, speaking in... Hamsterlish?* Hello... it's okay, you don't have to be afraid. No one will hurt you.
Little Hamlet: *her breathing is fast and she looks over at Hamlet as the giant purple hand pulls back* How...do you know...we're in the place the pet shop lady brings me... they always poke and prod and nothing is ever better...I don't like it here...
*she buries her face in the sawdust, tired and terrified* I just...want to sleep...
Hamlet: My owners are going to pay for the treatment you need to get better now... okay? Don't go to sleep... *he comes closer* We want to help you... they're good people I promise. Everyone here is.
Little Hamster: *tilts her head to blink one red eye at Hamlet, if Hamsters could cry she would have tears in it* ...the pet shop lady wanted to help too......
*she tilts her head a little like she might be willing to believe Hamlet though, because maybe a part of her wants to believe him* ...but this might be different...? ...the lady holding the cage...seems different...so do you...
--
Meg: *wishing she spoke Hamsterlish watches Hamlet and the little Hamster anxiously. She glances up for a moment to look at Onyx* The doctor's not ready yet?
Hamlet: *nods* The lady wanted to help you too. But she couldn't pay for it... *looks away* So we stepped in to help. You'll be okay...
---
Onyx: *stands back up and approaches the desk* How much longer for the vet...?
Receptionist: You're next. It will only be a few minutes.
Onyx: *nods then sits back down* How is the hamster...?
Meg: *looks back at the hamsters* She's calmed down but...she's really tired. I don't like it.
*Quietly* Hold on, Little one...
--
Little Hamster: Hey Mr. Hamster...why do you smell like a human...?
Hamlet: Well... that's kind of complicated. I'm Hamlet, by the way. What's your name?
---
Veterinarian: *walks up to the group* A hamster emergency correct...? *he frowns*
Onyx: The shelter next door had this sick hamster and said it was too expensive to continue treatment...
Vet: Ahh... *nods* Did she forget to tell you what it was? Rabid Rodent Fever. The medication is very expensive and... the disease is highly contagious. Should you get bitten you will contract it and... your other hamster now most likely will contract it as well.
Amelia: *her eyes widen* Hamlet...!
Vet: I will give you medicine for both of them. They take it for three days, once a day, alright? *walks around to the other side of the counter and looks for medicine* ...here it is. *hands it to the receptionist* If her condition worsens... there is nothing more we can do. Have a good day. *walks back down the long hall of exam rooms*
Amelia: *walks up to the front desk*
Receptionist: *rings up the cost*
*Amelia pays then walks back to the others with a small bag containing the medicine* We need to dose them both... now.
Meg: *looks up feeling guilty* Both...? *looks down at Hamlet*
--
Little Hamster: ... Hamlet...? Well...
*she ducks her head, looking away from Hamlet* My old owners...they called me Ollie...
*pauses like she's waiting for Hamlet to tease her. When he doesn't she lifts her head* But...I always thought...I heard a name somewhere once...so pretty... if I could choose...Ophelia.
*she blinks obviously having trouble keeping thoughts straight* Pretty pretty Ophelia. Yep that's me...no more Ollie.
Hey, Mr. Omelette...is it warm in here...?
Amelia: *nods* It's contagious... we also have to make sure neither of them bite us. *frowns*
Onyx: Hamlet doesn't usually bite but... *frowns and looks down at the little hamster* I don't know about her.
Amelia: We'll just have to be extra careful...
---
Hamlet: ...two things... you don't need to call me Mr. and... Hamlet. Not Omelette... *he gives her a tiny rodent grin* Ophelia. I like that... my da-- er, owner loves Shakespeare... I think I remember an Ophelia in there somewhere. It's where he got Hamlet too.
---
Onyx: Here... I'll try... *opens the door to the habitat and slowly puts his hand in toward Ophelia* Hey... *smiles at her and very slowly moves his hand closer*
Meg: *sensing that Ophelia (still calling her Little Hamster in her mind) is losing touch with reality, she lays her hand on Onyx's wrist* The fever is taking hold...be very slow, give Hamlet time to talk her through it. She's scared more than anything else.
--
Ophelia: *seeing Onyx's hand and rears back, not to bite but to shy away* Hamlet--who is he...? I don't want to leave the habitat...outside the habitat... is scary....what is he doing...?
Onyx: *nods at Meg* I know. *he stops moving his hand closer for a moment*
---
Hamlet: It's okay. He's nice... he's one of my owners, Onyx. He won't hurt you... he's trying to help. See...? *he approaches Onyx's hand and sniffs it*
---
Onyx: *pats Hamlet's head with a finger and then reaches just a little further in toward the little hamster*
Meg:*watches intently looking for a sign that the little Hamster might bite*
---
Ophelia: *stops moving backwards, her head feels misty and she feels hot, but....* Okay...
*tentatively she wobbles forward, sniffing Onyx's hand* He...he seems OK.
*Taking a final wobbly step she lays down on Onyx's hand, then not sure if she is speaking to Hamlet or the world in general she says* Please...just let me feel better...
Onyx: *lifts her out of the habitat and strokes her head gently*
Amelia: Here's the medicine. *hands him a very tiny little pill*
Onyx: *nods and puts it into the little hamster's mouth without much struggle, then pets her head again*
Amelia: *reaches in and gives one to Hamlet which he willingly takes*
Orion: *approaches Onyx and looks at the little hamster* Can I pet her...?
Onyx: You can try. *turns to face Orion, holding the little hamster close*
Orion: *carefully reaches out and pets the hamster, stooping down to eye level with her* Hello... *pets her for another moment more then stops*
Onyx: Okay... *places her back in the habitat*
Alexander: Well, let's go grab some supplies to head to the jungle... then we should go back to the hotel and rest up before we go to the jungle. And we should leave the little hamster at the hotel obviously... Hamlet can stay with her.
Meg: *nods and standing lifts the cage carefully* OK, if it's alright, I think I'll take Hamlet and her...*frowns a little* back to the hotel now. Anyone who wants to join me is welcome but I just don't think it's a great idea for us to drag her all over the bazaar. She's pretty stressed.
Alexander: Okay guys, I'll go grab the supplies we need for the jungle and the rest of you can go back to the hotel... I won't be long.
Onyx: *nods* Okay. Let's go, everyone.
*everyone except Alexander heads back to the hotel*
*once everyone gets to the top of the elevator and in the hall...*
Amelia: Alright... who's room is the hamster going to stay in...?
Meg: Well, technically you and Onyx adopted her... and Hamlet is your hamster as well. It makes the most sense for them to stay in your room. *A little reluctantly she goes to hand the habitat over to Amelia*
Onyx: Well, we adopted her but... if someone else wants to take her... that would be fine. I just wanted to make sure she had a home...
Amelia: *nods in agreement* And you were the one who found her... you sure you don't want her to stay with you? *smiles*
Meg: *feeling a little sheepish* I would like her to... *glances at Fang* ...would you mind...? I know it's odd but something is telling me she needed someone...and I just have a connection with her. *does her best impression of puppy dog eyes* Please...?
Fang: *sighs and nods a little* Alright... fine... *smiles*
Amelia: Then it's settled. She's staying with you for now. Why don't you go put you in her room...? Then maybe Hamlet can tell us her name now that no one else is around...
Hamlet: *tiny hamster nod*
Meg: *smiles brightly at Fang* Thank you.
*takes the hamsters to their room and sets the habitat down on one of the worn dressers in the room*
Ophelia: *feeling a little more clear headed now that she took the medicine, curiously sniffs the air* Hamlet... where are we now...? I don't know this place...
Meg: *leans over and looks into the habitat a gentle smile on her face* Hey, there, little one... well, I guess I should ask Hamlet what your name is. I can't call you 'Little One' forever can I? Hamlet... did she tell you her name? Or... what she would like to be called?
Hamlet: We're at the hotel... where everyone is staying. We're on vacation here. *sighs a little and approaches the habitat door... somehow managing to open the door on his own* Excuse me for a moment...? I want to stretch my legs... *jumps out of the habitat and transforms into a human not thinking Ophelia will freak out...*
She said... she wants her name to be Ophelia. *smiles and stretches a little* Such a small habitat... and I've gotten used to being a human...
*There's a knock on the door*
Hamlet: *glances over at the door* ...?
k
Jaci: *Quietly* Hamlet? Can we talk?
Hamlet: *frowns and looks away from the door, muttering* I don't want to... *but he sighs and walks over to the door, opening it just a little* What do you want?
Jaci: Can we talk... *Looks at him with loong hazel eyes* ...Please?
Meg: Ophelia...huh. What are the odds?
*looks up as someone knocks on the door and frowns when she realizes it's Jaci but she realizes it's not her place to interfere. Suddenly, notices a squeaking and looks over at Ophelia*
Ophelia: *was frozen but has begun freaking out* He's a human! Oh my creator...But he was a hamster! Oh my creator...have I gone mad?
Meg: *can see Ophelia is squeaking and running in circles* Uh...Ophelia...
*she leans down and leans close to the habitat door which is still open.* Ophelia...it's OK...
Ophelia: *looks at Meg, not understanding the words but hearing her name she stops and stares frozen like a statue her little nose frantically sniffing the air* ...are you even real...? Maybe I'm already dead. Hamsters don't change into humans. But...the lady knows my name...only Hamlet knows that...
Hamlet: *glances over his shoulder at Ophelia before looking back to Jaci with a scowl* ...Fine. You've got five minutes. If you can't tell... I'm busy right now.
Jaci: I didn't mean to hurt you, Hamlet. *Frowns* I wasn't expecting that reaction from you...
Hamlet: *sighs* I thought you... liked me... but apparently not enough to matter, because you're flirting with people you just met. *frowns and looks away* And you can't tell me you're sorry and think that will fix it... Because now I know you don't like me enough to not want to flirt with other guys and an apology won't change that.
Jaci: I do like you, Hamlet. A lot. *She looks for his eyes* You didn't tell me you wanted something serious...
Hamlet: Well... that's okay, Jaci, because I don't want something serious. *he meets her gaze with a cold stare* If you really liked me, you wouldn't have done that. *and with that he turns away from her* This conversation is over.
Jaci: *Hurt, she takes a deep breath* As you wish. *She turns around and leaves*
Hamlet: *after she leaves he turns to shut the door though he ends up slamming it before bursting into tears, forgetting Meg and Ophelia are right behind him*
*Meg and Ophelia have been staring at each other not really sure what to do. When Hamlet closes the door Meg turns to look at him*
Meg: ...hey.... *sits back on her knees* ....you.... want to talk...?
*glances at Ophelia but she has sort of huddled down in the sawdust and is watching the two quietly*
Ophelia calmed down. I think, you may have worried her when you shifted without warning...
Hamlet: *wipes his eyes when he realizes Meg is there* ...I just... *he slides down to the ground in defeat, sitting with his knees drawn to his chin and his arms wrapped tightly around his legs, facing Meg* ...I thought she liked me... I've been lonely for so long and I feel so... rejected... *suddenly as he looks at Meg he feels a stronger pang in his heart and he looks away* Now that I'm finally free to be a human and make friends and... maybe even find love... I feel more alone than I ever have.
*He looks over at Ophelia* ...I didn't mean to scare her...
Meg: *folding her hands in her lap and listening quietly, she watches him. She feels the pang he feels in her own heart. But she looks at Ophelia first.* She'll be OK. It's just something new...
*looking down she finally gets up the courage to look at him again* Hamlet...you're not alone. I will always be here as a friend to talk about whatever you want to talk about. And...truthfully, we never really talked about what happened. I know you said you were OK. But I know that's not true...and I really want us to be OK...
Hamlet: *He looks up at Meg with sad eyes* You want the honest truth? I really do feel alone. I feel like... you... *pauses* We were so close and then you abandoned me for Fang. And now the next friend I made pretended she was interested and then... She abandoned me for some guy too I guess.
*he looks down at the floor* I just want things to be how they were before. You were the first new friend I made... the first person I truly trusted to see my true form and I... I miss you. I was so stupid to think someone like Jaci would actually want someone like me... and I was stupid to imagine... us... *He shakes his head quickly and looks at her again, now silent*
Meg: *meets his eyes* I never-I'm sorry that I hurt you. I didn't go looking to fall in love and then when I realized it was happening... and I realized how you felt... I didn't-- *she looks down* I still don't know how to not make it awkward... So I pulled away. *laughs a little at herself* I guess I thought if I pulled away I wouldn't hurt you...But I only made it worse.
After that...about the only time we were ever on the same page was when we were fighting with someone else...and even then... you didn't trust me anymore. It hurt that I had lost that but you had every right to not trust me. Still I... I missed what we had too.
*Fidgeting, she rings her hands in her lap* You're not stupid to want to be in love...it just... doesn't always come the way you think it will... *meeting his gaze again she looks up at him* But I know... that you will find someone. You're too good a catch to not to. You are a Nightshade after all.
*she lapses into silence then, her eyes dropping to her hands. She really wants to hug Hamlet, to ruffle his hair or do anything to let him know that she's there but she just... doesn't know what will be OK....*
Hamlet: *frowns* I never wanted you to back away... it just made me feel like... you didn't care about me anymore. *He meets her gaze and manages to smile* I guess I am a Nightshade, huh...? *laughs a little* Onyx is going to be disappointed you don't want to be a Nightshade too... But I guess... you'll end up being a Fang.
I don't want it to be awkward... I just want my best friend back. So let's stop thinking about the awkwardness and... just go back to the way we were before?
Meg: I'd like that. I never stopped caring and I'm sorry I made you feel that I might have.
*laughs*As to being a Fang...Maybe someday. It's still early...Although I have a feeling I'm always going to be an honorary Nightshade in Onyx's mind...no matter what my last name really is.
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
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Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
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Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Nightshade: A Simlit || Blogspot || Forum Thread
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Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Jaci: *Leaves the room* *Thinks* That's my last try...
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Ophelia: ...unassuming...well, I suppose. No one has ever really expected much from me. ...just be cute and squishy, Ollie...just go wherever everyone else goes, Ollie...
*she lets out a huff of air that might have been a sigh if she were human then looks at him more intently when he turns his head*
Meg: *looks at Hamlet when he says Jaci's name* ...is she?
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Jaci: *Leaves the room* *Thinks* That's my last try...
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Ophelia: ...unassuming...well, I suppose. No one has ever really expected much from me. ...just be cute and squishy, Ollie...just go wherever everyone else goes, Ollie...
*she lets out a huff of air that might have been a sigh if she were human then looks at him more intently when he turns his head*
Meg: *looks at Hamlet when he says Jaci's name* ...is she?
Hamlet: *He doesn't reply to Meg or Ophelia as he opens the door and steps into the hall* *thinks* Is she seriously coming back AGAIN?
Nightshade: A Simlit || Blogspot || Forum Thread
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Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Jaci: *Leaves the room* *Thinks* That's my last try...
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Ophelia: ...unassuming...well, I suppose. No one has ever really expected much from me. ...just be cute and squishy, Ollie...just go wherever everyone else goes, Ollie...
*she lets out a huff of air that might have been a sigh if she were human then looks at him more intently when he turns his head*
Meg: *looks at Hamlet when he says Jaci's name* ...is she?
Hamlet: *He doesn't reply to Meg or Ophelia as he opens the door and steps into the hall* *thinks* Is she seriously coming back AGAIN?
Jaci: *Although she went there to talk to him, she was so far in her mind that didn't notice him come into the hallway and just keeps walking her way to Meg's room*
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Jaci: *Leaves the room* *Thinks* That's my last try...
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Ophelia: ...unassuming...well, I suppose. No one has ever really expected much from me. ...just be cute and squishy, Ollie...just go wherever everyone else goes, Ollie...
*she lets out a huff of air that might have been a sigh if she were human then looks at him more intently when he turns his head*
Meg: *looks at Hamlet when he says Jaci's name* ...is she?
Hamlet: *He doesn't reply to Meg or Ophelia as he opens the door and steps into the hall* *thinks* Is she seriously coming back AGAIN?
Jaci: *Although she went there to talk to him, she was so far in her mind that didn't notice him come into the hallway and just keeps walking her way to Meg's room*
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Jaci: *Leaves the room* *Thinks* That's my last try...
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Ophelia: ...unassuming...well, I suppose. No one has ever really expected much from me. ...just be cute and squishy, Ollie...just go wherever everyone else goes, Ollie...
*she lets out a huff of air that might have been a sigh if she were human then looks at him more intently when he turns his head*
Meg: *looks at Hamlet when he says Jaci's name* ...is she?
Hamlet: *He doesn't reply to Meg or Ophelia as he opens the door and steps into the hall* *thinks* Is she seriously coming back AGAIN?
Jaci: *Although she went there to talk to him, she was so far in her mind that didn't notice him come into the hallway and just keeps walking her way to Meg's room*
Meg: *stands watching Hamlet walk out the door*
Hamlet: *turns around to see Jaci and with a sigh he walks back in* Jaci...
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Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Jaci: *Leaves the room* *Thinks* That's my last try...
Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
*Meanwhile*
Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
Ophelia: ...unassuming...well, I suppose. No one has ever really expected much from me. ...just be cute and squishy, Ollie...just go wherever everyone else goes, Ollie...
*she lets out a huff of air that might have been a sigh if she were human then looks at him more intently when he turns his head*
Meg: *looks at Hamlet when he says Jaci's name* ...is she?
Hamlet: *He doesn't reply to Meg or Ophelia as he opens the door and steps into the hall* *thinks* Is she seriously coming back AGAIN?
Jaci: *Although she went there to talk to him, she was so far in her mind that didn't notice him come into the hallway and just keeps walking her way to Meg's room*
Meg: *stands watching Hamlet walk out the door*
Hamlet: *turns around to see Jaci and with a sigh he walks back in* Jaci...
Jaci: *Snaps out of it when she hears Hamlet's voice and looks at him*
Comments
Jaci: *As she hears the door shut, she feels her heart getting heavy* *Swallows and mutters something before locking herself in her room*
I feel the hearts beating
*Meg and Ophelia have been staring at each other not really sure what to do. When Hamlet closes the door Meg turns to look at him*
Meg: ...hey.... *sits back on her knees* ....you.... want to talk...?
*glances at Ophelia but she has sort of huddled down in the sawdust and is watching the two quietly*
Ophelia calmed down. I think, you may have worried her when you shifted without warning...
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Hamlet: *wipes his eyes when he realizes Meg is there* ...I just... *he slides down to the ground in defeat, sitting with his knees drawn to his chin and his arms wrapped tightly around his legs, facing Meg* ...I thought she liked me... I've been lonely for so long and I feel so... rejected... *suddenly as he looks at Meg he feels a stronger pang in his heart and he looks away* Now that I'm finally free to be a human and make friends and... maybe even find love... I feel more alone than I ever have.
*He looks over at Ophelia* ...I didn't mean to scare her...
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Meg: *folding her hands in her lap and listening quietly, she watches him. She feels the pang he feels in her own heart. But she looks at Ophelia first.* She'll be OK. It's just something new...
*looking down she finally gets up the courage to look at him again* Hamlet...you're not alone. I will always be here as a friend to talk about whatever you want to talk about. And...truthfully, we never really talked about what happened. I know you said you were OK. But I know that's not true...and I really want us to be OK...
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Hamlet: *He looks up at Meg with sad eyes* You want the honest truth? I really do feel alone. I feel like... you... *pauses* We were so close and then you abandoned me for Fang. And now the next friend I made pretended she was interested and then... She abandoned me for some guy too I guess.
*he looks down at the floor* I just want things to be how they were before. You were the first new friend I made... the first person I truly trusted to see my true form and I... I miss you. I was so stupid to think someone like Jaci would actually want someone like me... and I was stupid to imagine... us... *He shakes his head quickly and looks at her again, now silent*
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Meg: *meets his eyes* I never-I'm sorry that I hurt you. I didn't go looking to fall in love and then when I realized it was happening... and I realized how you felt... I didn't-- *she looks down* I still don't know how to not make it awkward... So I pulled away. *laughs a little at herself* I guess I thought if I pulled away I wouldn't hurt you...But I only made it worse.
After that...about the only time we were ever on the same page was when we were fighting with someone else...and even then... you didn't trust me anymore. It hurt that I had lost that but you had every right to not trust me. Still I... I missed what we had too.
*Fidgeting, she rings her hands in her lap* You're not stupid to want to be in love...it just... doesn't always come the way you think it will... *meeting his gaze again she looks up at him* But I know... that you will find someone. You're too good a catch to not to. You are a Nightshade after all.
*she lapses into silence then, her eyes dropping to her hands. She really wants to hug Hamlet, to ruffle his hair or do anything to let him know that she's there but she just... doesn't know what will be OK....*
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Cheshire: *internal screaming* anyway.. have you seen any of those skeletons here? apparently selvadorada has loads of them!
Hamlet: *frowns* I never wanted you to back away... it just made me feel like... you didn't care about me anymore. *He meets her gaze and manages to smile* I guess I am a Nightshade, huh...? *laughs a little* Onyx is going to be disappointed you don't want to be a Nightshade too... But I guess... you'll end up being a Fang.
I don't want it to be awkward... I just want my best friend back. So let's stop thinking about the awkwardness and... just go back to the way we were before?
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Orion: ...s-skeletons...!?
Skylar: What do you mean by skeletons!? *frowns, a little disturbed herself*
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Cheshire: skeletons! apparently if you get cursed by a relic or something you get turned into a skeleton!
Orion: C-cursed!?
Alexander: *eyeroll* We aren't going to get cursed... hasn't happened to me yet. That's just an old legend...
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Meg: I'd like that. I never stopped caring and I'm sorry I made you feel that I might have.
*laughs*As to being a Fang...Maybe someday. It's still early...Although I have a feeling I'm always going to be an honorary Nightshade in Onyx's mind...no matter what my last name really is.
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Hamlet: Well, either you're a Fang or he'll be Wolfe Blackwell-Santillan and then... you can't call him Fang anymore can you? *laughs* But I think you're right... there are already plenty of honorary Nightshades. Most of the people on this vacation...
*then he looks over at Ophelia and... starts squeaking out in Hamster language!?* Hey... did I scare you? Sorry. I guess I should explain why I'm suddenly a human...
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Meg: *looks thoughtful but makes no other comment and looks over at Ophelia who is still huddled down in the sawdust when Hamlet starts to speak Hamsterlish*
Ophelia: *raises her head as Hamlet begins to squeak a small hamster ear twitching* ...the lady knows my name...Your human and yet hamster....I...I must be mad...am I...mad?
*she gets up and turns a little circle* I must be mad if I'm asking you...Hamsters do not become human. It's not possible...
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Hamlet: Well, I'm a special case. I'm the guardian of the family I stay with... the hamster form is for convenience. I'm both hamster and human... *approaches the habitat and stoops down* You're not mad, I promise.
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Ophelia: *she stops turning to look at him with her little hamster nose twitching* ...but how...? And why be a hamster...we're so little and...squishy...
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Jaci: *Lying on the bed, just staring at the ceiling* *Thinks* Maybe i should talk to him again...? No... That's not me. But.. *She stands up and wipes away a couple tears away, smudging her dripping mascara all over her face, though she doesn't notice* I'll do it.
I feel the hearts beating
Hamlet: *smiles* I like being a hamster. It's unassuming right?
*suddenly he looks over at the door* ...Jaci... *he can already sense she's coming*
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Jaci: *Leaves the room* *Thinks* That's my last try...
I feel the hearts beating
Ophelia: ...unassuming...well, I suppose. No one has ever really expected much from me. ...just be cute and squishy, Ollie...just go wherever everyone else goes, Ollie...
*she lets out a huff of air that might have been a sigh if she were human then looks at him more intently when he turns his head*
Meg: *looks at Hamlet when he says Jaci's name* ...is she?
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Hamlet: *He doesn't reply to Meg or Ophelia as he opens the door and steps into the hall* *thinks* Is she seriously coming back AGAIN?
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Jaci: *Although she went there to talk to him, she was so far in her mind that didn't notice him come into the hallway and just keeps walking her way to Meg's room*
I feel the hearts beating
Meg: *stands watching Hamlet walk out the door*
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Hamlet: *turns around to see Jaci and with a sigh he walks back in* Jaci...
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Jaci: *Snaps out of it when she hears Hamlet's voice and looks at him*
I feel the hearts beating