Nyantaro! Where are you?!

<Hmm... No sign of him here, either...>

Not a trace... Since that day, I've had a chance to see him each time I've come to do a run. What could've happened to him...?

<Does he not want any dried sardines today...?>

I don't know. I just hope he isn't going hungry...

Hey, Tsukasa!

Akiyama?

Oh, and if it isn't Airi Momoi! Long time no see!

Are you two heading somewhere together?

Again, why do you always call me by my full name?! No, I keep responding the same way... It's like some sort of weird reflex now.

Haha...

We were on our way to check out a carnival that's in Shibuya right now. It's supposed to be all cat themed and really cute!

Anyway, Tsukasa, what were you doing just now?

We heard you shouting from way over there...

Ah, about that... I'm looking for Nyantaro.

Nyantaro?

He's a stray cat I met while doing my usual run here. We became friends after I helped him out of a bind.

I've been seeing him here at the park each day and getting to know him better by giving him some dried sardines...

But he isn't at our usual spot today.

In fact, I can't find him anywhere.

So that's what's going on...

But stray cats come and go all the time.

He might be somewhere else today, right?

I mean, cats are pretty independent.

Yes, but I'm worried that he isn't getting enough to eat...

I see...

I also love cats, so I understand your concern.

Why don't we help him look before we head over to the carnival, Mizuki? We still have some time before it opens.

Yeah, works for me!

You're going to help?! Thank you both very much...!

In that case, since I've already searched this area, let's look over that wa—

Huh? Tsukasa?

Hm?

Nene?! What are you doing here...?

Me? I was just getting some running in...

Oh! Morning, Kusanagi!

What a coincidence!

M-Momoi? Akiyama...?

What are you two doing here with Tsukasa...?

We're gonna help him look for a cat!

He's called Nyantaro...

Did you happen to see him, Nene?

Nyantaro...?

I had no idea...

In that case, I'll help you guys look for him. I was actually just about to take a break.

By the way, what kind of cat should I be looking for?

Knowing his breed or the color of his fur would help...

Oh, Nene, your help is much appreciated...!

And as it so happens, he has a wonderful defining characteristic!

Believe it or not, he carries a star upon his back...!

A star?

That's right. On the left side of his back is a patch of fur that looks uncannily like a star. As for the color of his fur, he's an orange and white tabby.

An orange and white tabby with a star on his back...? That sounds like...

Does that mean you've seen him, Kusanagi?

Well, the thing is...

He's right there.

What?!

Meow.

*Gasp*

N-Nyantaro...!!

Wait, this is him...?

Wow, he really does have a star on his back! Haha. Talk about great timing!

You're late! I was worried sick!

I brought you some more sardines toda—

Oh, Nyantaro, are these new friends of yours...?

Huh...?

Meow!

Haha. That explains it.

I was wondering where you've been going on walks lately. You were seeing your friends.

P-Pardon me...

But you are...?

Ah, this is my cat...

I'm Nyantaro's owner.

His...

His owner...?!

Alright, lemme get this straight...

First, this cat isn't a stray. He has an owner...

Not only that, his name is actually Nyantaro?! What are the odds?!

That's right. And I'm his owner, Inuyama.

I never expected to meet someone who'd given him the same name.

Th-Th-Th-This...

This is terrible!!!

I'm so sorry, Mr. Inuyama!

I had no idea that he had an owner. I ended up giving him a name and a steady diet of dried sardines...

How can I ever make up for what I've done...?!?!?!

No, I'm actually very happy. I've been wondering why he's been heading out in such a good mood lately. Also, based on what I just heard, you saved him from the pond, is that right?

Nyantaro's a bit of a fraidy-cat.

Fortunately, you were there to save him. Thank you again, Tenma.

I know. If you're free, would you like to come visit my carnival...?

I feel I should thank you somehow.

I mean, you've been so good to Nyantaro...

Wait, your carnival...?

You've noticed that there's a carnival set up nearby, yes? I'm actually the owner of it.

You are...?!

We were just about to go check it out!

Ah, perfect.

I'd like to take this opportunity to invite all of you.

It isn't exactly the grandest of affairs, but your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Wait, but... Are you sure?

Inviting Tenma is one thing... But us?

Yes, you're all invited. I'm grateful that you showed genuine concern for Nyantaro here.

Thank you very much...

Then, I think we have no choice but to accept your offer!

Meow.

*Gasp*

Nyantaro's brushing up against your ankles, Tenma...!

Haha. I think this means he wants to join our group.

Meow.

Hah hah hah! You're obviously welcome to join us! We are kindred spirits, are we not...?

Wait, since when...?

Hehe. Then, I'll lead the way...

Yes, please do!

(Thank goodness they were able to find Nyantaro☆)

(And getting to check out this carnival as a group sounds like a lot of fun♪)

(Hehe. I'm so happy for you, Tsukasa!)