CH 234

“Chapter 234: Intermission: My Parents”

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(Mike’s Perspective)

It’s been so long since I was here that I don’t remember left and right.

If I was on Bay Road this would be much easier. I only have the scent of the ocean breeze to guide me.

I’m only here because my master saved me. I have to show how useful I can be.

(…Maybe over here?)

With all the snow around, the slightest movement could trigger an avalanche. I need to be careful.

Any cave should be fine. The master will take care of everything after that.

We can do anything. Just like when we saved Akane.

And then I’ll get a lot of head pats for helping.

（Wait for me, Master!）

This cave is pretty big. There must be other species using it.

I’ll just ask them if we can use the entrance.

If it was the master and me alone, I could carry him on my back anywhere, but I have to be mindful of the others.

（Excuse me…）

The only residents I could see were the bats hanging upside down while staring at me.

I turned back to human form. This place might be good for me, but I need to see if it’s appropriate for the others.

(Smells like poop all around… But the ground is warm. This is a good spot)

The road back is a little steep, but I think I can manage to carry everyone here one by one.

– Misha? Misha, is that you?

I heard a voice from deep in the cave.

– …What? Who’s there?

– That voice! Misha, it is you!

Misha? That’s not my name.

My name is Mike. The master gave it to me when he saved me. I like this name.

– Aah, my precious Misha, I’ve been so worried ever since you disappeared. I thought I’d never see you again…

From the shadows emerged a woman and a divine wolf.

I’m still on guard. Nothing good comes out of people that make no sense like this.

That’s how the master always gets hurt.

Just like with that girl… Shiori? It’s better to be on edge every second.

I should be.

But for some reason, I feel a strange sense of comfort…

– Don’t be scared, Misha. Come with papa and mama.

– …Papa? Mama?

My thoughts are a mess.

I know those words. It means they’re my parents.

What do I do? What should I do?

I can’t waste time thinking. The master and the others are waiting for me. They could be in danger.

– Master…

Why am I walking deeper into the cave? I should be going back outside.

I’m abandoning my friends for the warmth of my family.