Jay and Mr. Sunshine are having lunch when some of the station's cats decide that these two individuals' laps will make good napping spots. -- Anon Guest
Mr Sunshine had been tasked with Jay's education. This included, according to Mr Sunshine, the student's introduction to the finer things in life. A sampling of everything that the cultures of the Universe could permit.
Today, it was sushi and blooming tea.
The tea steeped and performed in a glass teapot set between them, while a carousel brought offerings close to each and every diner. Mr Sunshine carefully explained one method of using chopsticks.
"You only move one chopstick. Not both of them," explained Mr Sunshine, demonstrating with a singular slim rod of wood. "The other remains relatively motionless, held steady by your thumb and the rest of your hand." He demonstrated by adding the other stick, and then picking up a singular tuna roll.
Jay was far clumsier, and slower. They dropped their own morsel five times before awkwardly getting it to his mouth. "I'd rather use my hands," they grumbled.
"When one is alone, or in private space, perhaps. It's generally protocol to use implements when one is in public spaces. Especially dining areas. Besides, learning new skills is good for the mind."
"I thought new experiences were good for my mind."
"They both work rather well," allowed Mr Sunshine. "As are reading, working on puzzles, gameplay, and general proceeding hence and finding out."
Jay was gradually getting the hang of it, but froze with a deep-fried morsel in their chopsticks with a stricken look on their face.
"Encountered an allergen?" guessed Mr Sunshine, ready to page for a Medik.
"What's the protocol for when a Skitty climbs onto you?"
Mr Sunshine peeked. One of the local station's cats, gengineered for pest control, had curled up on Jay's thighs and seemed set to remain there for all time.
"Harmless," said Mr Sunshine. "The protocol is to remain seated and otherwise proceed as normal. Oh!" He had his own purring lap companion. "Skitties should not have sushi, as I recall. Only the very raw fish, not shellfish, should be given to cats as a general rule."
"Right. Okay," said Jay, still nervously looking below his waist from time to time. They moved with a great deal more care when attempting to eat with better manners than they used to know. "I faced down monsters. Worse than monsters. Why is this terrifying?"
"The consequences of monsters is only death," said Mr Sunshine. "The consequences of social incompetence is the judgement of others. Of the two, death is more merciful." He poured some tea, only half-filling each cup. "However, patience is our ally in this exercise. We have cats on our laps. Therefore, we have all day."
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