Ch2 - Beloved by the Cat God
Chapter 2: Beloved by the Cat God
The Cat God explained that while it was impossible to revive Taichi on Earth, there was a chance to do so in another—an alternate world with advanced magic instead of science.
“That sounds nice and all, but… I’m not very physically fit. I’m not sure I’d survive in a world like that…”
Taichi was fine with living a normal life in the city, but the idea of facing monsters was terrifying. If only he were ten years younger, things might be different.
Upon hearing Taichi’s concerns, the Cat God chuckled softly.
“I won’t throw you into an alternate world without preparation. I’ll grant you the strength to survive there. Meow.”
“That’s very kind of you! Then I’d like to take you up on that offer.”
Taichi replied quickly, and the Cat God nodded happily.
Truthfully, Taichi was fed up with returning to his corporate grind. He was living alone with no girlfriend and his parents had already passed away. His only concern was leaving behind his colleagues, who would now bear the burden of the projects he was working on.
“Sorry… Please be strong and survive…”
As Taichi silently prayed for his colleagues, the Cat God continued.
“In the alternate world, how would you like to live? Would you like to use magic? Become an adventurer and defeat monsters with sword or magic? Of course, if you have other wishes, feel free to tell me.”
Taichi pondered the question.
Honestly, becoming an adventurer and fighting wasn’t appealing. He had no intention of taking on a battle-focused job.
Moreover, he absolutely did not want to end up in another black company. He wouldn’t be willing to return to a grueling job situation.
“If it’s a second life… I’d like to spend it doing what I love.”
This narrowed down Taichi’s options.
“Ah!”
“I’d like to open a cat café in the alternate world!”
That would be an ideal life, surrounded by soothing cats every day! Plus, running his own shop meant he could set the hours, avoiding any black company scenarios. Taichi couldn’t help but grin at his brilliant idea.
“You love our kind so much… Thank you. Meow.”
The Cat God seemed pleased with Taichi’s wish, though there might have been a chance of being scolded for such a request. Taichi felt relieved and looked at the Cat God.
“However, I can’t directly provide you with living beings from this world. What I can do is give you something useful for your journey…”
“Oh, I see…”
Indeed, asking for actual cats would have been quite difficult.
“So, how about becoming a ‘Tamer’? Meow.”
“A Tamer… the one who can recruit and use monsters in games?”
“Yes. While the monsters are the requirement, as a Tamer, you can recruit cat-like monsters or other cute, fluffy creatures.”
Taichi gasped at the thought of having fluffy companions.
“Please, I’d like that!”
“Understood. I will grant you all the skills a Tamer can learn. Meow.”
“Thank you!”
“Also… take this. Meow.”
The Cat God handed Taichi a bag from under the kotatsu, apparently as a farewell gift.
“Thank you. What’s inside…?”
“It’s a magical bag. It can hold an infinite amount of items and time stands still inside it, so use it wisely. I’ve already packed essentials like food and money for you. Meow.”
(This alternate world is amazing… so convenient.)
A holographic screen suddenly appeared before Taichi.
“Whoa.”
“It shows what’s inside the bag. Meow.”
“Oh, I see…”
Though startled, Taichi understood the importance of knowing what was in the bag. Looking inside revealed a strange, otherworldly space.
(There’s dried meat, water, black bread… emergency rations?)
“By the way…”
“Yes? Meow.”
“What’s the food like in the alternate world?”
“The taste isn’t very different. Monsters are sometimes used as ingredients. However, there aren’t as many varieties as on Earth. Meow.”
The Cat God thought for a moment, then perked up its ears.
“I have a good unique skill for you. I’ll add that too. Meow!”
The Cat God promised Taichi would face minimal difficulties with this skill.
“Thank you!”
“It’s a small favor. Meow. Now, it’s time to send you to the alternate world. Thank you so much for saving me.”
“No, I’m glad you’re okay, God.”
With a smile, Taichi responded to the Cat God’s words. As his body slowly lost consciousness, Taichi felt the transition to a new world beginning.