I've developed a distinctive acquaintance with Shino-chibi. While he disapproves of my insectivorous qualities, he accepts them. I asked him to allow me to consume one of his beetles- when he asked me why, I replied to the effect of not wanting to eat any by accident and to ignore any I may come across. I realized then that asking to eat one of his beetles was probably the wrong thing to do, and made a loud and exuberant vow to not eat beetles at all.
But then he held his hand out and on it was a small shivering beetle. I put my hand under his and closed his fingers over the beetle.
"No Shino-chibi. I should not have asked that of you."
"But-"
"No! I shall live without the knowledge-"
"But you should eat this beetle. Why? Because then you will know what it tastes like and not be perturbed should you have to ingest one again."
"Well… although I cannot fault your logic, I must protest this course of action as your beetles are precious to you. I would not cause harm to your emotional wellbeing without due cause."
"Surely learning such things now before it becomes an imperative part of survival is to your benefit."
"Maybe so, but causing a young child emotional distress is not."
We argued back and forth about whether or not I should eat his beetle for what felt like a great deal of time.
Our argument stopped when the shadow of Aburame-sama fell over us both. I was crouched and mildly ruffled- I've taken to wearing the Bird Coat everywhere, it's just… easier. There are very interesting gusts and wind formations in the lower village, especially near the Aburame clan compounds. I've only face-planted like, three times today!
"You will eat my beetle."
"I will do no such thing."
"Are they without nutritional value?"
"Certainly not but they have an intrinsic emotional value made profitable by you; I would not remove even one from your person."
Shino-chibi is now bristling. Aburame-sama is… laughing?
Odd.