Don’t give them sweets(impossible)

Ephemer glances around Hutch’s shop with some apprehension, holding some instructions on the needs of a variety of imps. Hutch themselves had put out three little blobs of black on the counter for Ephemer to look at—if he remembers correctly they are a chirop, impup, and phloof. Gazing into their big white eyes that seemed to stare into the void itself he takes note of how fluffy the phloof is, how eager and friendly the impup is, and the chirop giving the ‘big ole eyes’ look. Utterly adorable each in their own right.

Ephemer looks back up at Hutch who’s behind said counter of imps, they’d gone through a solid hour or two of the imp tamer explaining the fine details of proper imp upkeep and care but not once did Hutch mention imps needing sustenance. “So they…don’t need to eat?” He says as he looks over the imp care plan. Ephemer can guess that wasn’t the right thing to say as the collar wearing succubun’s glasses are pushed up their nose with an indignant look.

 “Of course not—in fact I discourage it! While imps seem drawn to our cuisine, especially the likes of sweets akin to dangos and mochi, it alters them from their beautiful glossy natural state. Who would want unnecessary alterations anyways like flowers?? On an imp?? Imps that look like frozen popsicles?! I just can’t imagine…” Hutch’s rant mode had been engaged. 

During the barrage of ideals Ephemer tries to pay attention but upon learning that imps can take on unique appearances from treats…he’s a simple bun. If he were to have a pet it would be spoiled and loved, treats included. Not that Hutch needed to be made aware—Ephemer was here to obtain an imp after all he’d rather not allude that he might dote on his imps with sweets that they crave lest the passionate bun decide Ephemer himself wouldn’t make a good owner.

 “So, anyways, outside of some training and making sure they don’t hurt themselves and give them plenty of love they’ll be okay?” He says once Hutch’s steam runs low on conversation. 

Hutch gives a nod. “Correct, each one’s training varies by each imp variety but otherwise they are fairly straightforward if you stick to actually reading the guide I gave you. I suppose you’re eager to have one of your very own? It just so happens I’m feeling generous. Why don’t you see which of these three you connect with the most and you can adopt them? I suppose I can waive the usual fee this time.”

Ephemer’s eyes sparkle with excitement, listening and learning from Hutch for hours prior has paid off. Maybe he will keep this imp it’s standard color after all, he’d feel bad obtaining a pet from Hutch‘s goodwill only to immediately disregard Hutch’s feelings on feeding imps. “Really? Thank you Hutch! Seriously, I’ll take really good care of them I promise.” 

He can’t help but be drawn to the impups eager and friendly disposition and gently picks it up to see how it fares. It wiggles in his hold before gazing up at him with puppy eyes and that was the moment Ephemer knew he was done for. “This little fella, if that’s okay?” 

The shopkeep gives a nod of approval before going behind the counter to pull out some basic imp supplies and puts them on an empty spot on the counter before gently ushering the chirop and phloof to the floor to roam about. Ephemer gladly takes the supplies and carefully places his new impup in the pet carrier Hutch provided him. “Thank you again, I’ll come back sometime with him to show you how well you taught me to care for imps!”

Hutch gives a half smile. “If you don’t I’ll assume you ‘accidently’ let them get into treats. But really, you're welcome Ephemer and even if they aren’t up to standard color anymore, I’d still like a visit to see how they are.”

Ephemer gives a soft smile back and tips his elegant hat, cradling the pet carrier to his chest. “Was I that easy to read? Well then it’s a promise Hutch. You have a good day, and I’ll see you again! Maybe we’ll partake in one of your classes.”  With that he opens the door of the shop and leaves, his steps feeling light at the prospect of a new friend to bring home.