Challenge #00211: Dining with... Omnivores.

Let’s switch up an old cliche!

The subject of diet comes up, and the alien/s at the table is/are horrified and/or disgusted that humans eat plant matter.

“We’ve done our best, of course, to find compatible foods, and make you feel welcome.”

Sh'shrii had to hand it to the humans. They had only seen the Ssarqa once, over a slightly dodgy analogue communications link, but they were clever enough to cobble together near-appropriate seating and a delicious-smelling meal on the spur of the moment.

The chairs were a slight measure too short, and the food unfamiliar, but the intent of their hospitality was clear.

“What meat is the coloured fare?” asked Sh'shrii, pointing it out.

“That’s not meat. That’s a fruit salad. More or less for us, since your data indicated you’re largely carnivores.”

“And the other colours?”

“Those are the vegetables.”

“You… eat… plant matter?”

“Amongst other things. Humans are biologically omnivorous.”

Sh'shrii couldn’t help the noise of disgust. “You’re either predators or prey, you can’t have it both ways. You simply have to pick one.”

The human considered this with an expression of disbelief. “If it helps your comfort levels, I’m vegan. I choose to eat no animal-based protein.”

Another noise. Sh'shrii almost retched. “The ignominy… rescued by herbivores…”

“Omnivores,” corrected the human. “I just happen to be voluntarily herbivorous.”

“Why would you choose such a disgusting lifestyle?”

This time, their smile was a rictus. “Let’s just discuss the rescue/salvage over a nice hot meal, shall we?”

“Do not show me the way you eat, I have no desire to lose my appetite.”

“Yes, fine, whatever,” the human muttered. “Let’s just get this over with.”

[Muse food remaining: 5 (fic war prompts, 0). Submit a prompt! Ask a question! Buy my stories!]