Don't Go Into the Long Grass

“Welcome  to Don’t Go into the Long Grass.” The pet store salesman smiled at the  young couple, who had stepped hesitantly into the shop. “With over one  thousand stores worldwide, our advanced cloning and genetic engineering  techniques make us the premier exotic pet dealer in the world. We are  here to serve your needs and desires in selecting your pet.”

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“We’re just looking,” the young woman said.

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“Of  course, of course.” He smiled at the petite woman with the dark hair  and eyes. “Take your time. We have several different animals available  which can be purchased and taken home immediately, or you can browse our  catalogue of species and options.”

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“Thank you.” The young man nodded.

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“My  name is Michael, if you have any questions or need additional  information. The available pets are in the display room, and the  catalogue can be accessed at any terminal. Call me if you need  anything.” The salesman’s image wavered, then vanished.

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“Martin, are you sure about this?”

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“Of course, Dianne. Anyone can have a dog or cat, but how many people can own a previously extinct animal?”

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“But they can be dangerous,” she said. “And what about…?” Her hand went to her abdomen.

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The  salesman reappeared. “With our advanced genetic engineering techniques,  we have been able to diminish the aggressive nature of the animals we  have available.”

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Martin and Dianne both jumped slightly, then turned to look at the salesman.

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“My  apologies. I didn’t mean to startle you. This is a common question that  comes up from people who are looking for the truly exotic. If I may  ask, what kind of animal are you thinking about?”

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“He’s the one thinking about it. I personally would prefer something a little less…exotic,” Dianne said.

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“I’m looking for a velociraptor,” Martin said.

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The salesman took a step back, the image wavering. “Velociraptor? Those are on the government’s restricted list.”

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“That’s  a shame,” Dianne said, offering Martin a smile. “Guess we’ll have to  decide on something else.” She paused and glanced at the salesman. “Why  are they restricted?”

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“Like  many of the animals on the restricted list, velociraptors are  considered to be intelligent. For a complete list of the animals  prohibited or restricted from sale as exotic pets, please visit one of  the terminals.”

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“But I’ve heard of people who were able to acquire velociraptors,” Martin said.

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“Unfortunately,  as a licensed and regulated exotic pet shop, we are not able to supply  you with one. Unless you would like to check out the pets we are legally  able to offer, I’m afraid we can’t help you. Don’t Go into the Long  Grass operates within the restrictions placed by the government. If you  want to venture outside of those restrictions—going into the long grass,  so to speak—we will not be able to help you.”

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The salesman vanished.

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“Come on, Dianne.” Martin reached for her hand.

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“Look,  I know you wanted a velociraptor, but let’s at least see what they  offer.” She pointed to the display room. “If you want something  previously extinct, how about a Scimitar Cat?”

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“It’s  just a cat,” Martin said. “They’ve made them no more dangerous than  domestic house cats. I want something that can actually be dangerous.”

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Dianne stopped and spun around. “Why? What is your fascination with having a pet that might turn around and kill you?”

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“I  want something I actually have to form a bond with. That I have to  respect and earn its respect, as well. I don’t want something that has  been programmed to be safe and fun.”

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“Excuse  me.” Another customer walked up to them. “You might consider visiting  this place.” He handed Martin a card, then turned and left.

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“Jurassic Exotics,” Martin said, reading the card. “Truly exotic pets for the adventurous pet owner.”

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“Does it list an address?” Dianne asked.

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“Yes.” Martin flipped the card over. “It’s about ten miles outside the city.”

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Dianne sighed, then shook her head. “Okay, let’s go.”