"We use the term 'Biological Impossibilities' at the carnival, since it's no longer considered polite society to have a 'Freak Show,'" Ada said airily, clearly not offended in the slightest since it was obvious Cosima was not freaking out about it. "--but yeah, that's why shoes and I are locked in an eternal battle of hate and all that."

She chewed her lip for a moment, considering her options. "Can I try the little black flats?" she asked. "Those don't look like they'd be as stiff as regular shoes."