"So, that means the upper limit on the number of abilities you can have is nine?"
White Fox's expression changed in shock. "How did you know?"
"...I guessed." Fine—even if their Worldviews differed and the powers they displayed took different forms, some things were still mutually understood. "Mm, if you read enough books, you can naturally guess. Don't sweat the small stuff."
Jiu Ming rubbed his chin and narrowed his eyes in thought for a while before continuing, "Mm, since you put it that way, the reason you wanted to eat me back then was to gain a new ability? By devouring me?"
"...What a stupid question. Hmph. Once I saw that Space Ability, how could this fox possibly let it slip away?" White Fox looked at Jiu Ming with deep regret for quite some time. "I really... really want to eat you."
An awkward look flickered across Jiu Ming's face. He reached out and pressed a hand to White Fox's forehead. "You, stop dreaming in broad daylight. Once you help me finish what comes next, I'll give you an ability—one that won't take up one of your tail slots."
As he spoke, he grabbed one of White Fox's fluffy tails. The five-star softness of its silky fur felt so good that he could not help lifting it and rubbing it against his neck. The result was White Fox letting out an "Awoo!"—embarrassed and furious beyond measure.
"Don't touch my tail!!!"
Her voice carried a near life-or-death roar, brimming with humiliation and rage.
"What a pity... Fine." Seeing White Fox looking ready to fight him to the death, Jiu Ming wisely released her tail and raised both hands to show that he would not do it again.
White Fox shook her head. Seeing that Jiu Ming's attitude in admitting fault