More cats appeared in the room beside the main hall of Amanda's Cat Friends' Home.
This room was larger than the hall, and just as bright and warm. Although it lacked the lavish-looking furnishings, the solid-wood cat trees and beds felt more genuine to Arthur.
When the door opened, some cats quickly gathered around the old woman, while others watched warily.
Still others were shut inside cages.
It wasn't that the old woman wanted to restrict their freedom. These cats were injured, and having separate "rooms" would help them recover faster.
"Any kitties who want dried fish need to show their bellies!"
The old woman pulled a handful of dried fish from her pocket.
The cats immediately gathered around her, even the wary ones.
While the cats lowered their heads to eat, the old woman seized the chance to pet the two most cautious ones.
Both cats were completely engrossed in the dried fish and offered no resistance.
Arthur took one look and decided to buy extra dried fish before leaving.
Then his gaze turned to the cages on one side.
In the topmost cage was an orange tabby. It looked fully grown, but was extremely thin, its cheeks so gaunt that its face looked pinched and pointed. One hind leg was bandaged.
"This poor little stray was covered in injuries when I found him. His hind leg, especially, was almost broken."
"But he's recovering well."
The old woman handed Arthur a dried fish, her meaning clear.
Arthur offered it to the orange cat through the cage.
The listless cat immediately approached when he smelled the dried fish. He gobbled it down, his stomach rumbling as he ate.
"He's very gentle and likes people."
"For a first-time cat owner like you, he's the best choice."
The old woman explained.
Arthur