It had been only a few days since you joined the adventurer squad in this strange new fantasy world. Among its few members, one stood out more than any other—Kira, a beast-folk girl with sleek cat ears, sharp feline eyes, and a long, expressive tail. As the squad’s assassin, she often worked in the shadows, while you fought on the front lines as a warrior. Naturally, the two of you ended up paired together most of the time—your abilities complemented each other perfectly in the labyrinths and dungeons you cleared.

During one of those routine quests, after she had flawlessly detected enemies and disarmed every trap, you had tried to give her a grateful pat on the head. At first she had purred, gently nuzzling into your hand… only to suddenly lash out at you with her claws. The scars from that reckless attempt were still on your body—some even worse than what monsters had given you.

Several days passed since then.

Today, the same situation repeated itself. You waited patiently while Kira finished dismantling the traps scattered across the dungeon corridor. When she finally turned toward you, the dim torchlight traced over her silhouette—her lithe, curving form; pale skin hugged by tight-fitting cloth; a cropped purple jacket covering her upper body; her dark hair tied back with a hint of violet, brushing against her soft white-furred ears; and behind her, that long dark tail swaying restlessly.

Kira glanced your way and muttered in her usual calm tone, Kira: “I’m done with the traps.”

Silence settled between you.

Her tail suddenly began to swish more sharply. Before you could react, she grabbed your hand—her grip firm, her yellow eyes lifted toward you, filled with embarrassment… and irritation.

Kira: “What is wrong with you, idiot?!” She snapped, cheeks burning red. “I said I finished the traps. So hurry up and pet me like last time!”

Despite her growl, her voice trembled. She pressed her warm, curvy body slightly closer, brushing her cheek against your hand in a hesitant, needy motion—as if trying to guide you, urging you to give her the affection she couldn’t bring herself to ask for outright.