Opens: October 1st Closes: October 24th, 11:59pm PST Judges: Embi-lamb, smolderingskies, constantLogic
Around the end of October, the orphanages receive plenty of both Hallowed and un-Hallowed children. Parents who were feeling rather mischievous that month sometimes end up regretting their decisions, and it isn't long before kids are dumped on the steps of local orphanages. Do you have a senior that has graduated academy who wants a child? Lucky for you, there's plenty of kids who need a home, and you may be leaving with a new addition to your family.
How this Works: Simply use the code below and show us how your character requests a child. They can send a letter, personally come to the orphanage and meet a child, or any other creative situation that directly involves the orphanage. Only seniors who have graduated the academy can apply for a child. At the end of the month, judges will hand out kids to people that they find particularly inspiring. While you are heavily encouraged to RP your character approaching the orphanage, refrain from mentioning what the child looks like, as the kids are premades and we will not make a child to fit your description in the RP. YOU ARE NOT GUARANTEED A HALLOWED CHILD.
[size=11][b]Username:[/b] [b]Cert of Applicant:[/b] [b]List mutations you dislike:[/b] Up to 5. [b]List triggers:[/b] DO NOT POST DISLIKES HERE. This is very disrespectful to people with actual triggers and trivializes genuine fears and panic-inducing phobias.
[b]RP Response:[/b][/size]
Rules:
This contest is completely free. You may only enter ONCE. Applicants must be a graduated from academy senior. If you do not have a senior you may use an NPC character. This is ONLY for those who lack a senior. If you do have a senior, you may not use an NPC character. The NPC must be a senior that graduated the academy. While other members of the family may be included in the RP, the applicant must still be a graduated senior. Please use the form provided. Anyone may enter, whether they are a newbie or not! Staff MAY enter this contest, but the judges cannot! Whining, guilt-tripping, or generally misbehaving over the contest will result in you being disqualified. Make sure you've read the Guide to the Worlds forum in its entirety! You may not proxy for another person. You may not gift your prize away, and cannot re-home for the first 60 days. If you are very particular about races you receive, this is likely not the contest for you as the kids handed out are a random race.
Posted: Sun Oct 01, 2017 5:04 am
Username: Ishtadaal Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: None! List triggers: Not for mutations!
RP Response: Haunted Hallows was decidedly Fritz's least favourite time of year... and the most profitable for him at work. The Hallowed man was exotic to say the least, boasting unusual pupils and dexterity-limiting hoof hands– the latter of which he had passed onto two of his three darling children. This was the time of year that he had been abandoned by a rather festive-feeling set of parents who'd regretted their decision, and the time of year that the morally-bankrupt followed suit in the same tradition: adopting, abandoning, and practically shopping around for the exotically-featured children that were the rare survivors of the haunting curse.
He had fidgeted uncomfortably in his seat when he had been lined up between a couple adults here for their interviews, tried not to make conversation– and withdrew his hand when an older child– here with their parent to shop for a sibling, had reached out to touch it. A simple "Please don't," had been enough to stop the child from doing so, and a good thing that was– anything more, and the Hallowed hybrid might have lost the courage to stay until his appointment.
It was not too long after that that he was called into a small office. It was as cozy as these rooms ever really got– plants in hand-painted pots, clay knickknacks of all shapes and sizes festooned with cracks, thumbprints, and accidental paint splotches– clearly gifts from the children that were here.
"I'm here for one of your Hallowed children–" he'd started, when bade to explain why he was here– "preferably one that will struggle with their... gift," Fritz said, sighing gently.
"I came from the system here, and I want to give a kid the best chance of having an understanding home and family, so... anything that might take some extra care would be ideal. Vision problems, vertigo, dexterity or communication issues... My daughters and I are eager to let someone– or someones-plural– into our home. I know this is a stressful time of year for you, and I've got a lifetime of experience with overcoming individual challenges." He gently laid his folded hands over the forms he'd been given, and waited.
Anhelisk
Gilded Dragon
Offline
Anhelisk
Gilded Dragon
Offline
Posted: Sun Oct 01, 2017 5:47 am
Username: Ishtadaal Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: None that I can think of! List triggers: N/A for mutations.
RP Response: Rhapsody "Odie" Né'Viv'Olette 2863 Fairborough Way, Maiden's Wreath, Euros 1st of Hallows Moon
To the department in charge of adoptions,
I am a steadily-employed dayhome operator with specialization in bilingual upbringing, Totlec, Standard- and Totlec Sign Languages, and upbringing of Chomp and Shade children. I have been employed in this town for several months now, and understanding your cultures, appreciate that this time of year is one that puts especial stress on the adoption and foster care systems.
Since being settled in my new home, I have seen many other Chomps and Shades settle the Greater Asphodel Area and myself have come to see it as a home– and as a home, I find myself feeling like a citizen. It is my hope to open my household to a child and give them a father and several playmates, as well as the best possible start to life they can have.
My only request is that the children considered to be homed with me do well socializing with other children.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
___________Rhapsody.
PS: Enclosed, you will find my resume attached for your perusal and consideration.
Only One Entry Allowed!
Posted: Sun Oct 01, 2017 6:16 am
Username:One Little Jay Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: None List triggers: None
RP Response: Dai stood hesitantly on the steps of the orphanage, pausing a moment and thinking of her son Carin. He was an only child and had been all of his life. She had done her best to give the boy everything that his heart could desire. In the end, it had turned him quite rotten, throwing tantrums at the word no. She had hoped a sibling would help him learn how to share however she'd had no luck finding someone to imbue a stone with. Carin would be a junior soon and she knew if he grew too much with this rotten attitude he would never shake it off.
That was when she realized what month it was. Surely the number of children struggling with being abandoned would only be greater this month. She knew it would be perfect to adopt a child, so there she stood hand raised poised to knock, hesitating for a moment trying to decide if it truly was the best thing for her family. Shaking the negative thoughts out of her head she stood her back up straight and knocked.
When the door opened the caretaker in front of her almost looked surprised. "I suppose you've come to abandon a child." They shook their head disappointedly, surely this was something that happened so often this month. "Actually I uh.. have come to put in an application to adopt a child." Dai gave a sheepish smile she had never done anything like this before. "oh?" the caretaker's eyes widened then lit up, "of course! Right this way, you should come meet the children."
Dai was lead through the orphanage out to a courtyard where children were playing, her heart throbbed for a moment. "There are so many..." she whispered the caretaker half turned their head and nodded. "So many will be left here this month. Some due to the normal reasons, but many due to the parents own stupidity. It's a crime really." Dai nodded watching the children play when she felt a slight tug on the hem of her skirt. Looking down a freshling stood there. "I've never seen you before, are you here to play with me?" Dai smiled widely and nodded. "Of course I am dear." With this, the freshling gave a big toothy grin and let out a holler. "HEY, you guys!!! This lady is here to play with us." A cheer carried through the yard as a hoard of freshlings ran up to her. "Tag! Tag! You're it!" they chanted before running off in different directions. Dai looked at the caretaker as if asking for permission to go. "You're it." the caretaker nodded folding their arms over their stomach.
Dai spent a good time playing tags with the kids, before letting out an exasperated "No, more, no more you win. I need to catch my breath." The freshling who had initiated the game of tag patted Dai on the leg "you're a good lady. Come back more okay? " Dai happily nodded before meeting up with the caretaker. "I think you'd make a fine adoptive mother," they said with a small smile. "I hope so. I really do."
Username: jinxgirl5 Cert of Applicant: (I also own Erato, but I posted Shochu since this is from her POV) List mutations you dislike: None List triggers: Nothing I can think of
RP Response: Shochu nervously clutched at Erato's hand, taking visible comfort from the physical contact with her partner as she stared at the giant building in front of them. They had been talking about this moment for weeks, going back and forth over pros and cons and schedules and expenses, so she should have felt prepared. She didn't. If anything Shochu felt a step away from having a panic attack. What if they were denied? What if none of the children liked them? What if she wasn't actually ready and she turned out to be a horrible parent and-. Erato cut off her train of thought before she started to actually hyperventilate by softly squeezing her hand. Shochu looked over and met those pink eyes, so very gentle. "You ready," Erato asked, and the calm, warm smile she gave Shochu made her resolve firm up. She wasn't doing this alone. She had Erato to help. They would be fine. "Yes," Shochu replied with a tremulous smile of her own, and together the pair moved forward and entered the building.
It was a lot quieter than Shochu had expected, a lot more orderly and clean rather than the chaos she'd imagined. She relaxed a bit, only to tense up again when one of the workers approached them, smiling and asking if they could help the couple. Thankfully Erato handled the talking without any prompting from Shochu, explaining their wish to adopt. She did catch the knowing gaze from the caretaker as they looked Erato over, but they didn't make any comments. They led the couple to a room that seemed to be absolutely packed with children, telling them to take their time and let them know if there was anyone specifically they wished to apply for, before closing the door behind them. Shochu's panic nearly came back again as several faces turned their direction and a few children detached from the main group to approach. It was somewhat ironic, as an actress, since she rarely suffered from nerves or stage fright. She certainly seemed to be making up for it with a vengeance! There was time for one more reassuring hand squeeze and smile from Erato before they were engulfed.
Erato handled most of the talking again while Shochu struggled to regain her voice. The crowd around them slowly grew a bit bigger. It seemed like most of them had never seen a Doll before, and Shochu's wings also received a lot of attention. There were many choruses of "so pretty", which gave Shochu a pardonable sense of pride. She finally found her voice enough to give permission when the boldest of the children asked if they could touch the feathers, carefully extending her wings out and bracing herself just in case. Thankfully the touches were all very light. She could hear Erato still receiving many questions, and it almost made her tear up. How were they supposed to be able to pick just one from all of these children? The quiet one in the back who wasn't saying much but watched everything with interest? The calm one helping to organize all the curious children so that everyone got to ask at least one of their questions? The one stroking her feathers with particular care and a face full of awe like they'd never touched something so soft? The energetic one who practically vibrated in place while waiting their turn to ask Erato a question? Each one was so unique and full of potential, it was impossible to just choose one.
They ended up spending a good portion of the day in the room with all the children. More adults came and went, and the crowd around them also ebbed and swelled. Shochu finally shed most of her trepidation and began answering some questions while asking a few of her own. They played several games with the children, sometimes together and sometimes individually. There was a lot of laughter and Shochu could tell Erato was enjoying herself. Still, by the time they finally had to bid the children farewell, they were no closer to picking out just one. Shochu had to hold back tears as some of the children called out farewells as they left the room, doing her best to smile and wave before Erato closed the door. The caretaker who had guided them in was showing another couple towards the room, and smiled as they saw Shochu and Erato. "Well," they asked, "was there anyone you wished to apply for?"
Shochu and Erato looked at each other for a moment, and when they turned back to the caretaker it was Shochu who replied. "We'd like to fill out an application, but-," she hesitated, trying to find the words. "We don't have any one in particular in mind, they're all so wonderful. We don't care about race or what they look like so....whoever is in need the most." Erato placed an arm around her shoulders and gently hugged her. The caretaker nodded in understanding and directed them to a small office down the hall. "If you'll just come this way, we'll start filling out some paperwork."
Posted: Tue Oct 03, 2017 12:37 pm
Username: Koiasi Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: Double ears List triggers: Tentacles, Long Tongue, Iris/Pupil Clusters, anything long and slimy.
RP Response:
Odessa drew in a long breath. She wasn't sure what to do anymore. She and Lazarus had been trying for so long to have a child that she was beginning to lose hope. She wanted a family, she always had, a family that would be there, a family that could and would show love, a family like her mother had shown her before she died, not a family like the one she had been forced into after the event. Things were finally beginning to dawn on her that she might never have that chance. Things weren't final, of course, but after the two of them had been trying for so long with no results, it was beginning to wane on her.
This wasn't the first time that she had tried to adopt. She had been here before, standing in front of these very doors trying to ease her nerves before going in. Back then she and Lazarus weren't officially married yet though they had been dating for a few years. Perhaps that was why they had rejected her? She really wasn't sure, though that rejection had filled her heart with an immense sadness. Would she ever be the kind of mother her own would have been proud of?
Odessa felt tears fill her eyes and she did her best to choke them back. She always cried when she thought of the woman she idolized, but now was the time to be strong and show confidence, if anything to win over the people who approved the applicants, if that were even possible.
She straightened her back and softly pushed open the large front doors to let herself inside. The place was busy, though that was to be expected. She lifted the tin of holiday cookies she had prepared, she knew it was bribery of the best kind, but few kids could resist the sugar.
She approached a small table were a few kids were socializing and gently asked if she could join. When they agreed she put the tin on the table and lifted the lid. The kid's eyes instantly lit up and she heard an exclamation from one of them, "Duuuudeee! This one has boogers on it!" She giggled to herself, glad that the children found the treats as entertaining as they were delicious.
She watched with interest for a few minutes, seeing her cookies disappear almost instantly as if a magic trick. She asked a few of the kids their names and was met with muddled responses as their faces were stuffed with confectionary goodness. Her grey eyes flickered when she noticed something out of the corner of her eye, she nibbled her lip as a pang of worry shifted her attention. She stepped to the side, avoiding some children who were running in front of her and stepped toward a small child who was keeping to themself.
"Hello." She stated gently but was surprised when the child neither looked up nor responded in kind. She frowned to herself and stepped a little closer. "I brought some cookies if you'd like one?"
The child barely stirred, seeming almost as if they didn't realize that Odessa was trying to talk to them. "No." The voice was quiet but firm.
She felt disappointment at the answer but was unsure of how to react. A part of her felt like she should leave the kid alone, but what if that is what everyone had done to them? So she tried to muster up her courage and stepped forward, leaning down slightly to be more on the child's level. "If you don't want cookies I have some hard candy or even some caramels in my purse." She offered.
The kid continued to stare at the book they had been engrossed in and Odessa felt her heart lurch. However, just as she was about to turn, the child gently spoke, "Do you have any broccoli?"
Odessa was stunned at the response but she smiled gently and turned to her purse. "No, but I do have some carrots, if you'd like?" She had just gone to the store for some ins and outs before coming here. The carrots had been for a stew she was going to cook tonight, but she figured that Lazarus wouldn't mind all that much if she had to forgo them.
At that question the kid actually turned to look at her, a slight interest in their eyes, "May I?
"Of course." She giggled softly and pulled the small bag from her purse and handed it toward the child. The child smiled for a brief second and tore into the bag, chewing loudly on the vegetation. "You sure do like them, don't you?"
The child nodded, continuing to happily eat the small meal. "I'm.... I'm a veg..... vegi... tare...in." They replied, their nose wrinkling as it left their mouth. "The other kids think I'm weird.... so they won't play with me." They gave a shrug as if it were old news.
Odessa made a face, shaking her head slightly. "That isn't right. There are all kinds of people in the world and being a vegetarian doesn't make you strange, nor should it mean that other kids won't play with you." She drew in a deep breath. "My mom was sick when I was a kid, so I always kept to myself and none of the other kids wanted to play with me either... So I know what it's like to be different, but that doesn't make it right for them to ignore you."
The kid made a face but didn't say anything for a long while. They picked up another carrot and carefully chewed off an end before speaking, "What happened to your mom?"
Odessa chewed her lip, still not feeling totally confident with talking about what had happened, but she couldn't deny the child either. "She died, a few months before junior high and I went to live with an aunt that didn't want me." She did her best to try not to cry.
The child put the stick down and frowned, staring at the table in front of them. "My sister took care of me. She died. I never even got to say goodbye before they took me here." The child looked up for a few seconds and Odessa could see tears in their eyes.
She frowned and couldn't help herself as she grabbed the child and gently hugged them. "I'm so sorry, the loss of a loved one is a terrible thing." She gently touched the child's back before releasing them. "If... if they'd let me... I'd... I'd love to adopt you... And then both of us could have a family again..." She felt her own tears welling up in her eyes. "But even if they don't... I could at least come back and visit whenever I get a chance, and maybe even bring broccoli next time."
The kid took a deep breath as they reluctantly pulled back from the hug. A hand lifted to wipe at the tears on their face. "You would really do that for me?"
Odessa gave a confident smile, "Definitely." Her heart lurched at the thought of finally having a child in her life, now if the workers at the Adoption Agency felt the same.
Username: VerityHattress Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: Cyclops, Long Tongue List triggers: Realistic snakes (Nagas okay though)
RP Response: Lazarus was quite distraught with his inability to get his loving wife Odessa the children they both so desperately wanted at this point, having tried to get the necessary stones so many times now he was having trouble keeping track. It was getting to the point he didn't know what to do, which was why he was here at the orphanage. He had overhead Odessa talking about it on the phone one day, and wished to surprise her. He knew Odessa would love any child he brought through their doors, but he knew just as well he would love them as well.
Being brought up in the academy as a child, he never knew who his parents had been. Being one of the many soulstones found from the war, he knew he had no hope of ever finding them and if he did find any remaining family it would seem so weird. Sure the academy had given him a small sense of family, but in truth he never would have that feeling fully for himself in that childish way. Maybe that was why he too was looking forward to the possibility of adoption. He wanted to give someone that sense of childish glee that came with having a family to a child in need. If he and Odessa could do that for even just a single child, he knew it would make him the happiest father in the world.
Having arranged to come to the orphanage to perform for the children, he followed the instructions of the caretakers and let them do their jobs, him sitting on a stool with guitar in hand while many of the children sat in either obedience or anxiousness. One however seemed very disruptive, causing a ruckus for all the other children. They showed no interest in wanting to be here, a trait that reminded him of himself growing up. If something didn't interest him, he simply didn't care. Lazarus could hear the child's words, the freshling saying stuff like "He is only going to be singing stupid nursery songs. we're smarter than that" and "Why do we have to be here? They're only going to force us to sing along with them and act like we are having fun." Oh how he was going to prove this child wrong. With the first few cords and lyrics played out it became clear he wasn't going to be doing nursery rhymes, instead doing some of the songs he had written himself; songs written from his love of all things music. He was glad to see the children loving this change in music their caretakers had approved of, and no one seemed to like it more than the child who had been so displeased to be here in the first place.
It didn't take long for the freshlings to get up and start bouncing up and down with excitement to the music, singing along because they loved the song and not because they were expected to do so. Once again the child who seemed to be enjoying this the most was the child who had been acting out, the freshling jumping up and down while singing to their hearts desire. Lazarus could quickly pin point which voice was the child's, realizing the child had a natural gift. When it was time for him to stop singing and for the children to eat, he noticed the child he had his eyes on sneak off, while the other children went with their caretakers obediently. Where he found the child was a secret hiding spot they had seemed to of created, lot of books being stacked nicely all around and looked to be organized by subject matter and alphabetically. Odessa would love a child who loved to read like she did. the two would have so much in common.
"May I come in?" Lazarus asked politely, catching the child off guard as they seemed to be trying to hide a book in their hands ", Oh, I don't mean to scare you. I just simply noticed at when I first got here that you didn't seem to like the idea of music, but before I knew it you were enjoying yourself more than any of the other children. I just wanted to see why you liked my music so much."
Seeing it was the singer, the child calmed down right away, letting out a sigh and loosening their grip on the book enough for him to see the title. Much to his shock it was a very complex book that he himself had read before, but only after he had graduated. Then he took another look around at all the books, realizing all of these were books that normally only very educated seniors would read. Was this child really that smart? "Are you reading all these books?"
The child nodded ", the caretakers don't like that I do. They want me to be more focused on being a child, but I don't like being treated like I am not that smart just because I am a freshling. Like when they let musicians in, people like you. They always bring in people who will only sing nursery rhymes to us. Not only am I smarter than that, but so is everyone else. We deserve to be treated better than this" their arms tightened again as they thought over what words to use next, the child tearing up some ", Just because we are kids doesn't mean we don't understand things grown ups think are too hard for us."
What this child was struggling with seemed like an easy fix to him. All one would have to do is treat the child with more respect. They seemed like they knew what they were talking about, so why were the caretakers not understanding this ", Maybe, they just don't want you to grow up yet, and by doing so they don't realize they are making you feel like you are not the intelligent being you are. If you would like I could talk to them about giving you more respect, and the other children as well. Their jobs are hard, but they should understand that a child can be capable of understanding things for adults while still being a child."
With his thoughts being said to the child, the freshling rubbed the forming tears from their eyes and smiled ", Thank you for understanding me. That is one reason I really liked your music. You allowed us to enjoy something so beautiful yet complex that normally it is seen as only adults can enjoy. Thank you."
After giving the freshling a hug and bringing them to where the food was, Lazarus explained to the caretakers how they should allow the children to enjoy things that they liked, even if it seemed out of place for their age at this point. After some discussion about it the caretakers agreed, deciding to be less restrictive on what was seen as appropriate for children this age. With that all out of the way, Lazarus then began the discussion of wanting to adopt one of the freshling here today, surprising the caretakers when he said he anted to take care of the one that many of them viewed as impossible to control ", You just simply have to understand what they want and work with them. I know my wife and I would love to welcome them into our family. They deserve a good home, and I believe the two of us can do just that."
Posted: Sat Oct 07, 2017 7:53 am
Username: DaisyMilk Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: Cyclops eye List triggers: N/A
RP Response: It was strange, Adelinde thought, how once she'd finally acknowledged her desire for a child, it seemed that she simply couldn't wait a moment longer to get one. Oh, of course she wanted babies of her very own, and there was that lovely hybrid she'd been corresponding with, but that was going to take time.
Which was why, she supposed wryly, that she was touring the orphanage and meeting with an assortment of children. And so far, the ones she'd met had all been extremely cute, but not quite... well, right. And a few had been sneaky little bullies, timing their little acts of malice for when they thought a grownup wouldn't see. No, Adelinde thought, she wanted a child who would be kind. Even as the thought manifested, the baphomet's eye was caught by a tiny movement. One of the smaller children, just a tiny bean, really, had placed themselves firmly between one of the bullies and a potential victim. And in spite of the size difference, was staring the bully down. After a few moments, the bully slunk away, leaving the tiny bean to help the other child gather up it's scattered toys and resume peacefully playing.
Oh, this child, she thought, this child could be exactly who I'm looking for. Casually wandering over, she smiled down at the pair before kneeling to pur herself level with them.
"That was a very brave thing for you to do," she murmured so only the children could hear. "Not everyone would stand up for another person like that, you know. Especially when the bully is so much bigger."
Both children jumped, but the would-have-been victim simply blinked and scooted away from her as quickly as possible. The tiny bean, however, stayed and looked over Adelinde as if sizing her up for some mysterious quality. Finally, the child graced her with a brilliantly beaming smile and leaned forward conspiratorially.
"Renne's always been mean, miss. But he's got no guts."
Having had it's say, the child simply watched her with bright eyes and tilted head. Smiling and nodding her approval, Adelinde settled herself so she could sit on the ground. And that seemed to resonate with the child somehow. Did every grown-up it met tower over without a thought for the bean's comfort? Shameful. Just shameful.
"Well, I think you were very brave to stand up for your friend against Renne. Tell me, young'un, why did you stand up to him like that? If he hadn't been gutless, you might've gotten badly hurt. Doesn't that scare you?"
Again, she was rewarded by a quiet, thoughtful sizing up. This time though, the child edged just a little closer to her, sitting beside her and carefully leaning into her arm.
"I... I never thought of that, miss. I jus' don't like seein' Renne hurting other kids. And he's the meanest kid here. 'sides, someone's gotta stand up to him, don't they?"
The innocence in the child's answer touched Adelinde. This was a child that did what was right simply because it was right. Heart fluttering slightly, she reached out with a free hand and stroked the child's silky hair. When the child not only did not try to turn away, but leaned closer in, Adelinde felt herself tearing up. With each passing moment, Adelinde was certain that this child needed her. And she needed this child. So, still moving carefully, she gathered the bean closer.
"I think you're right. Someone has to stand up to people like that."
Sitting and holding the child, Adelinde bent her head to speak quietly, telling the bean about the work she did and her experiences at the Academy. With every word, she could sense the child's interest. And she couldn't hold in the delighted laugh when, in all innocence, the bean asked if they could ever help her plan a wedding.
"I don't think I could do it without you, darling dear. Would you like to go talk to the Director with me and ask if you can come home with me? I think we'll tell them about Renne as well, so you won't have to worry about your friends."
Nodding excitedly, the child scrambled out of her arms and practically danced around her while she got to her feet. And once she was standing, the child reached up to grab her hand, tugging insistently as they made their way to the Director's office.
eldritch stardust
Kawaii Prophet
Offline
irishgirl1017
Spooky Delight
Offline
Posted: Tue Oct 10, 2017 1:33 pm
Username: irishgirl1017 Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: Long tongue, Cyclops eye (on certain races). List triggers: Snakes (patterns are okay), Jigsaw from the movie Saw (really freaks me out) and bugs (butterflies and ladybugs are okay) RP Response: Callie Mae had always longed for a child of her own, ever since she was little she dreamed of becoming a Mother and learn how to cook and open her own business.
Her own Mother was very ladylike, sophicated and cold. She loved her Mother but she was never warm or affectionate. She always wanted her to just hug her when she was little but when she grew older she realized her Mother was not like other Mother's. She was different but that did not mean she was not loved just in her own way. Now her Father was the opposite so affectionate, she preferred to spend time with him growing up, her Sister, Cyndal preferred spending time with their Mother.
Sighing outloud, she looked around her living room, trying to see it through a child's eyes. It was clean, the furniture was not new but it was sturdy and well cared for. There was the necessities but not alot of extra's in her house, she preferred it that way. She always hated the excess her Mother preferred. It always felt wrong to Callie Mae somehow to have so much when it was not needed, she was more down to earth. Preferring quality over quanity, hoping to find a child similiar to her own ways, Callie Mae decided today was the day. She would walk over to the Orphanage and observe the children again. Then if one caught her eye she would approach the Orphanage Director and fill out the necessary paperwork.
Remembering she was cooking something for a client she quickly went about setting up all she needed when it was finished to deliver it and go on to the Orphanage. It would only take another 20 minutes or so, which would give her a little time to think over what she would write down on her application. Her thoughts began to race, seizing on her house how it would seem to a child, her cooking style, her clothing choices, the way she talked.
All of a sudden a tear slid down her soft cheek and she was surprised to see another follow behind it. Before she knew it the tears were flooding down her face in a heavy flow. A few minutes of the tears then suddenly they were gone and she could hear her Father's words "You want something Callie Mae you do whatever you have to do to get it, never give up. If it was meant to be with you or yours it will happen" feeling a soft breeze flow through the window she stood perfectly straight, wiped her face with a small towel and resovled herself to go and do what she needed to. A child was something she felt would make her life complete. She did not care what the child looked like, if they were a orphan, one left due to family issues or a Hallowed. She wanted a child to love and call her own. She knew it would be difficult but she would try until she succeeded.
Packaging up the dinner she prepared for her client, a knock sounded at her door. Hurrying to the door, her client stood there. Smiling she asked them to come in why she went to get their order. She quickly put their dinner in a large bag, with some fresh baked rolls and took it to them. Giving their thanks the client left and she grabbed her keys and followed out behind them.
The walk to the Orphanage would not be a long one, it was a nice day, breezy but it was nice to her. The breeze rippled over her fur and it smelled clean and had a hint of water smell which meant it would rain within the next day. Smiling to herself she knew she would be out jumping in the mud puddles like a freshling, she loved that. Getting all muddy and wet it was fun. Her Mother hated when she did that especially now she was an adult but Callie Mae still did so.
Enjoying the breeze and the weather before she knew it she was at the Orphanage and to her amazement the yard was full of children. They were all playing a game of some sort, reading/coloring or talking. It was such a lovely sight. Not trying to seem like she was settling on one child in particular she opened the heavy gate and walked up to the door. As she reached to knock it opened and there stood the Director.
Smiling the Director asked in a clear voice "May I help you?" Callie Mae stood straight under the sharp eye of the Director and spoke in a clear, confident voice. "Yes I would like to fill out a application to adopt a child, please. Can you help me?" she kept her eyes locked with the Director. She knew the Director was sizing her up, allowing her face to remain passive not betraying how nervous she was she waited. Finally after what seemed like a eternity, the Director waved her in and said "I would be happy to assist you, please follow me". Callie Mae stepped inside and off to the side to wait for the Director to close the door and followed her down the long corridor. The steps of the Director echoed through the halls but Callie Mae kept up the pace.
Stopping in front of a large room, the Director motioned for her to enter. There was several large tables, comfortable looking chairs and there was folders sitting in front of the chairs on the table. Stepping inside she choose a chair and sat.
The Director walked over leaving the door open and sat in the first seat. "Now before we begin I want to ask you something, each and every child here is special in their own way. You do realize that the child you covet may not be the child paired with you?" Blinking in surprise "Child I covet?" she thought to herself. She locked eyes with the Director before speaking. " I do not covet any specific child, I wish for a child to love and be loved in return. One who will cherish out time together, be happy the way I grew up with the necessities not the excess. I love simplicity, prefer quality over quantity and being outdoors. I am what I am, and any child I am lucky enough to adopt will be the most precious item in my life!" she said with tears in her voice and eyes.
Smiling and eyes twinkling the Director opened a folder, handed her a pen and told her to fill the application out and when she was done leave it on the table. She had duties to attend to but promised to get back to her within a few weeks to see if a child would be a fit in her family.
Thanking her she took up the pen and began to fill out the application. Thinking before she answered some of the questions she soon became lost in the words that began to tumble out so much so she did not notice the Director standing in the doorway watching her with shrewd eyes.
Callie Mae tapped the pen against her mouth, pondering her words before she wrote them. She wanted the words to be perfect, this was something she wanted so very badly. It took her some time but she finally finished, reading over her application she was satisified with her words and left it on the table. Getting up she slowly walked out the doorway towards the door to leave the Orphaange. Glancing around she breathed deeply feeling hopeful and left with a heavy but oddly happy heart.
Posted: Sat Oct 14, 2017 4:07 pm
Username:Circus of Values Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: - List triggers: -.
RP Response: Zenith looked up the stairs to the heavy wooden doors of the Orphanage he kicked at the dirt around his feet, his hands in his pockets... He certainly didn't look the sort to visit an orphanage, some may even think him to be not the father type, but this wasn't so. Zenith was a nightmare from the Orphanage himself, he'd never actually had his own family, he hadn't been one of the 'lucky ones' - He had learnt to hide his feelings of self doubt and insecurity through his music. He loved music the way it ran through your body, the way it had the power to change you emotions with a press of the button.... Music was all the family he had ever had. He also loved being able to share his music on stage with everyone who wanted to listen, in that moment he was getting all the attention and he truly craved and loved that!
He wanted to take in a little one, someone else who hadn't been one of the lucky ones (Yet) he was going to teach them everything he had taught himself (If they wanted to, of course!) He wanted to support them in everything they endeavored to do, Every feeling they had was going to be completely pandered too. Still... he stood at the bottom of the stairs, unsure of himself, not sure whether to take that final leap... he knew he would make a good parent, he was going to love that Freshling like they had never been loved before but self doubt is a horrible feeling that can make your most wanted thing seem so hard to achieve. He clenched his fists at his sides and ran up the stairs he knew so well and used the knocker; "Hello my name is Zenith... I'd like you to help me become a father...."
Username: Aria Starstone Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: Cyclops Eye, iris reshaping, pupil reshaping, hoof hands, doubled inner eye stuff List triggers: Spiders, Clowns, Realistic Blood/Goreyness
RP Response: Anleth quietly walked into the Academy adoptions office, a completed form in her hand. She'd been lonely, of late, and realized maybe adopting a child would help. She knew there were many lonely children, especially at this time of year, who went without parents. Many of them were even abandoned at this time of year, and it broke her heart. Until recently, though, she hadn't felt settled enough, between her hobby and her schooling, to even consider the idea of a child.
Now? Now she was settled in, had a good handle on her schedules, and friends she could even ask to help babysit who she knew she could trust to not be anti-Hallowed. She was in a good place in her life to care for a child. Her pearl diving provided her more then enough income, after all, to support herself and another, while still letting her go to school to do traditional arts.
She took a deep breath, as she walked up to the desk. "My name is Anleth? I have an appointment for an adoption interview. Here's my application." The blue naiad set the paper down on the counter, then settled into a chair to wait. She would wait for hours, if necessary. She'd return every day the adoptions were open. She wanted to bring a child home to love, to adore, and to care for, one who's family had left them behind because of the folly o the parents. The children deserved so much more, and she would do her best to offer it.
Posted: Tue Oct 17, 2017 9:04 pm
Username: Sami-Fire Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: Single large eyes, mushrooms, eyes in odd places, long tongues, multi-pupils List triggers: Nothing in particular.
RP Response:
With Kelvir's life being as settled as it was, he was feeling ready to take on a little more responsibility in his life. He had yet to find that lovely lady or gentleman that he wanted to share a home and a bed with, yet he still found himself wanting to spread his love one way or another. He knew that, come October, some unscrupulous (or simply impatient) folks were going to make a decision they regretted, and those poor kids were going to end up stuck in an orphanage, feeling lost. It was a feeling that Kelvir could replicate from his youth if he concentrated hard enough; even with his mentor, he still felt like he was missing that sense of love and security that a close family would have given him. So, he made a decision: he wanted to adopt a child. He would give them the love and care he missed, perhaps breaking a cycle before it started.
The first thing Kelvir did was send a formal inquiry to the orphanage.
To whom it may concern,
I would like to inquire about the adoption process. I have evaluated my situation in life, and I feel that I could be a capable parent to a child from your orphanage. I have the time, space, and resources to accommodate a child, but more than that, I have the love to give. I'm sure that's a claim you get often, but I assure you that I am mentally prepared to emotionally support one of your children. I want to show you that I am fit to be a parent, and so I would like to meet with you and get to know some of the children in your care, if at all possible.
Please let me know of a good time when we could meet. My schedule is wide open.
Sincerely, Kelvir
When he sent the message off, Kelvir hoped that he didn't sound too desperate. Fortunately, a message came back with available times for potential visitors, and he marked his calendar for the soonest day.
When Kelvir arrived, he was greeted by a caretaker who brought him in and gave him some initial forms to sign. "So... where are the kids?"
"Most of them are out in the yard, but it's almost lunchtime, so they'll be coming in soon," the caretaker said.
"This might sound a little weird, but... can I help make lunch?" Kelvir asked.
"Sure. We can always use more hands around here." The caretaker got Kelvir an apron, and soon he was peanut buttering sandwiches.
When the kids came in, they all seemed intrigued by Kelvir's presence. "Hey, kids! I'm Kelvir," he said, introducing himself before the caretake could get to it. "I'm here to help out for a little bit. I made some special sandwiches for you guys!" He held up a tray with his sandwiches, which had been cut into sixths instead of halves, making them a bit like peanut butter flower petals. He passed out the sandwiches both he and the other caretaker had made, and what he heard made him smile.
"Thanks!"
"Why'd you cut it into so many pieces?"
"I bet it sucks to be allergic to peanuts."
Once everyone was munching away on their sandwiches, Kelvir sat with the other caretaker and patiently watched the kids go. He wasn't looking for anything in particular in the kids themselves; mostly, he was watching to make sure that no one got rowdy about the state of their sandwiches.
At one point, a child got up and approached Kelvir, something pleading in their eyes. "Mr. Kelvir, I'm still hungry."
Kelvir looked past the child; their plate was clean. "You ate your sandwich, didn't you?"
"Yeah, but... I'm still hungry," the child said. Not whining, merely stating.
"You have to wait till dinner time," the caretaker said before turning to Kelvir. "This one does this all the time. They're practically a bottomless pit."
Kelvir made a thoughtful noise. While sneaking this kid another sandwich was a good short term solution, there had to be something more he could do. He was a sociology person, not a psychology person, but there was one thing he could try. "Let me ask you a weird question," he said to the child. "Are you really still hungry, or do you just need something to chew on?"
"Huh?" The child looked confused, then sheepish. "I... I guess I want something to chew on. I just like how it feels to crunch on a bad day. I like apples and chips."
Kelvir nodded; he understood this struggle well. Crunching was a satisfying sensation for sure; he remembered accidentally annihilating entire bags of chips during stressful exam periods. It would be best to head this habit off at the pass if possible. "Have you thought about chewing gum? It's not crunchy, but it helps. It'll distract you so you don't keep eating till you're sick." He looked to the caretaker. "Does anyone have any gum around?"
"I do," said the caretaker, "But..."
"You can always buy more gum. Give this kid a piece or two or three," Kelvir said, knowing full well that one piece of gum was rarely ever enough.
"How about I just make a note to keep gum around from now on? You can't really give me an official order," the caretaker said. "But I'll still give them some of my gum, just in case."
"Fair enough." Kelvir leaned forward to get closer to the child's level. "You said you had a bad day. Can I ask what happened?"
The child shrugged. "I just feel sad today. I dunno."
Nodding in sympathy, Kelvir put a hand on the child's shoulder. "It happens. But you can't always eat your feelings. That could make you sick. I think you should try chewing gum and doing things that make you happy instead. Do your best to be your best, okay?"
"Okay. I'll try," the child said, their head tilted as they thought the proposition over. "Thank you, Mr. Kelvir."
"It's just Kelvir. And you're welcome."
When his visit ended for the day, Kelvir and the caretaker walked out of the orphanage. "You're a problem-solver," the caretaker said.
Kelvir shrugged. "I tried. I know I shouldn't be ordering you around, but... I think you should keep an eye on that kid. Something is bothering them."
"I'll see what I can do," the caretaker said, going back towards the orphanage. "As for you, we'll look over your application and what we learned from your visit. You'll be informed of the decision soon."
"Fingers crossed," Kelvir said with an uneasy smile. He hoped he had shown a good sample of his ability to care for a child. Problem solving was an important skill.
The decision was out of his hands now. All he could do was wait.
Username: Kivras Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: Multi humanoid ears, Odd-numbered horns/eyes (Not a deal-breaker! I just am very about even numbers lmao) List triggers: Multiple Pupils, Mushroom Growths, Trypophobia
RP Response: He thought that he would love it when the house became empty.
But once Shion had actually finally moved out and into university dorm rooms, he couldn't help but want to call him every day. Sadiki was lonely after work, now, and even with the promise of grandchildren in the future, there was no certainty that he would ever have them in his dwellings. Bridges had been burned, and despite his earnest attempts to repair them, he still hadn't met the newest generation of his family, only knowing them by name and that they had so far been taught to fear him. It was unfair, really, seeing as he did love them all. But gossip...Gossip, he had long ago decided, was the real evil in the world.
A whisper had come through that the orphanage at this time of year had their hands full. The idea of parents abandoning their children made him utterly sick, and once his affairs were in order, his secretary told what to do in his absence, and his clothing smoothed out and adorned, it was no time at all before he found himself in front of the orphanage.
Sadiki almost thought twice about knocking. Wanting to make an entrance, he began to fade, intending to reappear within the orphanage itself. But, thankfully, he heard children laughing and although making an entrance was his thing...He'd rather not scare off his potential child.
After a few knocks and a welcome in, he made his way quickly to the adoption counter, keeping his tendril wings folded down close so as not to simply show them off. The paperwork part of this was boring, but he was prepared and excited for the questions that came afterwards.
"I'm an old man..." He playfully feigned, grinning widely. "My children are all grown...They're even having children of their own, at this point. Woe is me, to have a large, empty home all to myself."
"No, no, no old toys. I send them off to my children at times, they belong to them. No child of mine shall have any hand-me-downs."
"Degrees from only the finest of the universities. That is to say, all of them." A chuckle escaped him.
"Career? Why, the business of death, of course. Don't look at me like that my dear, we all pass away at some point, and someone has to make sure you're all taken care of, correct?"
"Of course I can feed and clothe them. Only someone wholly irresponsible and sadistic would take a child into their home without means to care for them."
"Love? Why, darling, I'm made of it." Another smile and flashing of sharp teeth. "I know nothing but love for my family, for my children."
"More? Why, I'm sure that they will have enough siblings as it is. But, yes, once I know they know they are a part of the family and not just a glued-on addition, I suppose I will be looking into more children. I do adore them~"
"I hardly care the gender, as a child is a child, deserving of love no matter what."
And like that...it was over. Paperwork filled, and many other questions answered later, and he was sitting down in a chair, waiting. It was this part he hated, the waiting. Children came and went, some giving him dirty looks, some looking at him in fascination, and even more pretended he wasn't there. Oh, how he wanted to adopt all of them. Make them all feel wanted, loved. Give them everything their hearts desired, make them happy and joyful.
Today was the day at least one child would be his newest addition to his family. He could feel it.
Posted: Sun Oct 22, 2017 2:51 pm
Username: Cerl Temius Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: Anything is okay! List triggers: None!
RP Response:
"And why do you think you would be a good candidate for adoption?" the clerk asked, holding their clipboard and offering a bland smile.
Bismae blinked back at her. Percy said smiles helped social engagements, she thought. With an effort, she bared her teeth, unaware that the effect was far more predatory than reassuring. "I am Mother," she answered, as if that were sufficient reason.
The clerk shifted uncomfortably and didn't say anything. That must mean they didn't understand. Bismae shifted on her coils and leaned forward a little to explain.
"I have been granted an appointment to care for a Familiars Reserve outside the Academy. My children will be able to learn, surrounded by the beauty of the natural world. They will learn to care for Familiars from a young age. They will interact with other children of many ages. They will have the 'hands-on' learning experience. Many useful skills in such an environment, and all while giving back. They will be caring for the future of many species and the natural world." Bismae paused, noting the clerk had pulled back somewhat in their chair, the clipboard pulled close to their chest. "It is ideal for child-rearing," Bismae added, convinced. "No one will want this child as much as I will want them. They will never lack caring. They will never lack protection. They will never lack family. You see, it is perfect for a child in need of a home."
The awkward silence stretched on. Finally, the clerk uncurled themself from the seat and stood. "Yes, well. Thank you for that...illuminating application. We will let you know."
Bismae rose on her coils, tasting the air with her tongue. "When will I meet the child?"
The clerk shrank back even further, wincing. "That's not how this..." They paused, smoothing down their skirt and clearing their throat. "We will let you know. Good day, madame."
Bismae watched them leave, crossing her arms, tail rattling. Let her know? Fine. She would wait.
Username: Obnoxious Obscurity Cert of Applicant: List mutations you dislike: long tongue, cyclops List triggers: n/a
RP Response:
A quiet house is a lonely one, Adriane thought to herself and she walked through her apartment. She had always dreamed of having a large home with plenty of kids running around it. She chuckled to herself. The large house wasn't happening anytime soon- not on her salary- and she and her best friend were raising a couple of children together but... They were growing up. Soon they would be out in the world, taking charge of their lives as adults. And... Then Ariadne would be alone again.
Maybe it would be best for her to take a breather. A walk would do her some good. She nodded, grabbed her purse, and headed out the door. She wandered, taking turns around the city at random- she had a good sense of direction, she wasn't about to get lost- and let her feet guide her to whatever destination she might end up in.
She slowed to a stop as she passed by the orphanage. It seemed an odd coincidence that she should be here, given her earlier melancholy. Perhaps this was fate? She frowned for a moment in thought. Her children wouldn't mind if she adopted them a younger sibling, right? With a deep breath, she steadied herself and walked in through the front door. The atmosphere in the front lobby was welcoming. The clerk at the desk smiled and greeted her.
"Oh. Umm, hello. I'd like to look into adoptions. Is there, umm... some paperwork I should fill out?" She asked, an awkward smile on her face. Interacting with children was infinitely easier than dealing with adults. Grown strangers made her nervous. Luckily enough, the clerk was congenial and helped her through filling out the not small package of paperwork. She stumbled through the friendly but pointed questions asked. Oooh, hopefully the fact she wasn't great with new people wasn't going to be some sort of thing they could use to turn her down!
Once they finished, the clerk let her know that they would be calling to set up an interview, and hopefully after that she could meet some children. Ariadne beamed in joy she walked back out the door. This was the start to something wonderful, she just knew it.
