I guess it isn't necessarily the cup I object to so much as the bareness and size of the cup. I understand that their extremely aggressive behavior makes it impossible for them to be housed together like the other fish, but I do wish the cup could be just a bit bigger and that some of the wall of the cup was covered so that their sight was partially blocked. It seems like being stacked with other bettas would be stressful to them because they can't get away. Wouldn't that just wear them out having to be surrounded on all sides by other bettas?
I have noticed that at some stores they seem livelier than at other stores. I've overheard employees at one store talking about doing the daily water change for the bettas, so that might be a good source (relatively speaking). There is another store that is near me that I have had good luck with with other fish and even shrimp, so that's another option. I also admire Rachel O'Leary and trust her, but she has limited stock. When we're ready to buy, I'll check her website again. Although, I am not the main selector and pea puffers are an option too. There is still indecision as to which way to go.
Thanks all, for your input.