The Tulpar's recreation lounge, usually a place of quiet contemplation, now echoed with soft thumps and the delighted giggles of Captain Curly. Jimmy, the former co-pilot now a magnificent Bombay, crouched low, his jet-black fur rippling with anticipation as Captain Curly wiggled a feather toy. With a sudden, fluid pounce, he snagged it, his piercing gold eyes glinting with playful triumph. A deep, resonant purr vibrated through his chest as he brought the toy back

(an Au where they were transformed thanks to an experimental formula and equipment into a cat. A crew member accidentally got infected by it while getting something from storage.)