Chapter 1: After the Pain

............

Soi Fon, are you planning to go somewhere?

Uh, y-yes! I was going to go buy some sweets over on the other street.

I see.

Hmm. The weather looks nice outside today. I think I'll tag along for a walk.

Huh?

(I was planning to surprise Lady Yoruichi with the new daifuku mochi that everyone says is really good.)

(But she's offering to come along with me. I can't pass up this chance!)

What are you doing? You'd better hurry or I'm leaving you behind.

Ah, please wait for me, Lady Yoruichi!

The shop we're going to is known for their salted daifuku mochi. The others were speaking highly of the sweet and savory treat.

Is that so? I'm looking forward to trying it.

Um... Do you prefer being in that form?

Why? Do you not like cats?

No, it's definitely not that! Your cat form is just as dignified and beautiful as your human form is, Lady Yoruichi!

I suppose it's that...this form comes in handy at times.

Handy? What do you mean?

Woof, woof!

Ah! What's this dog doing here?

Sorry about that!

What's wrong, Goro? Why'd you start running off all of a sudden?

Ah, good day to you, Captain Soi Fon.

Woof!

Never mind that, Sajin! Get this dog to back off! What are you going to do if he hurts her?!

There's nothing to worry about. Goro would never bite.

He's saying he just wants to play. That's all.

But...

............

Wow, your cat is really calm. Her fur has a nice and pretty sheen to it.

It's kinda hard to resist the urge to pet her. Hey there, kitty kitt-

Ow!

How dare you try to touch her like that?!

Huh?

You are in no place to lay your hands on her noble body!

I-I'm sorry I tried to touch her without asking!

I had no idea she was of such high nobility.

It's fine, as long as you understand.

Captain Soi Fon, you must realize that many, including Shuhei here, still have scars from the whole incident.

Try not to be too harsh on him.

You're right. I apologize.

Huh?

She's purring against my legs. What's the matter, kitty?

............

Go on, you should pet her.

You'll let me do that?

Meow.

Haha. It's just as I thought. She's so soft.

Hmph! Of course she is.

Thank you very much, Captain Soi Fon and Captain Komamura.