บท 597: A Spiritual Contract

"I did not know that cats received a speech update," said Oriole while blinking at the cat, who declared him its target. "What can I do for you, kitten?"

"Hehe, calling me kitten like this," purred the cat coyly. "They should have warned me the target would be a sweet talker," the cat whipped its tail back and forth as its paws took measured steps toward Oriole.

"Did someone send you here?" asked Oriole with confusion. "I don't have any enemies except for the broken hearts I have left behind."

"As much as I understand their heartbreak, I am sadly here for a different reason. I know about Arthur's disguise, and I'm here to make a deal with his dearest companion."

"...how do you know him?" his peaceful face crumbled at the revelation, and Oriole's hand reached out toward his knuckledusters. "I cannot feel any hostility from you, but knowing that secret is..."