The Neko's Tail (Book 2 of Astara)

Shopping Spree

Artemis walked slowly through the crowded port, guiding Elias ahead of him with light touches. He could tell the neko was embarrassed by his wardrobe, but that would be changing soon. Artemis himself tried to keep himself from tugging on his collar.

A hand grabbed his tail and the tiger growled quietly. The offending hand was quickly removed. It was always a problem on these ports, having appendages that stuck out, like tails. Passerby often tried to touch him, and he was hoping to spare Elias the experience.

Which was why he walked behind the neko, guarding Elias' tail.

"Through here," the tiger said quietly, pressing lightly on Elias' left shoulder.

They turned right down an alley, stopping in front of an open door. The sound of hundreds of languages faded as they left the main thoroughfare and Artemis sighed in relief. It gave him a headache trying to sort through the myriad of conversations.

Stopping the neko, Artemis said, "There are going to be many unfamiliar things inside. If you need me to explain anything, just ask- or point at it."

It was unlikely the neko would ask any questions.

Prodding his charge into the store, Artemis pointed Elias toward a counter. A young Xanar stood behind it, studying the neko with obvious interest.

"Greetings," she said graciously. "Let me know if there's anything I can help you with."

"Actually, my friend here is rather new to the technology of a starport," Artemis mentioned.

"Oh! Allow me to help you then," the Xanar smiled.

The tiger stepped back as the Xanar took over, making sure she kept all six arms to herself.

"If you step in here, we'll get your measurements," the alien said, motioning the neko toward a circle drawn on the floor.

Elias looked at Artemis, who nodded reassuringly. The neko took a cautious step over the white boundary.

"Hold out your arms.... And..."

A wall of light dropped down from the ceiling, surrounding Elias. The neko yelped in fear, but the light was gone before he could even move.

"Perfect! What type of clothing are you looking for?"

"Something suitable for cruising between systems," Artemis explained.

"Ah, light, breathy, but still insulated against a bit of chill?"

The tiger nodded and the Xanar began typing on a tablet.

"Here, try this on."

A black shirt appeared over the neko, drawing another yelp from him. It was a holograph given the properties of weight and feel. Elias still wore the purple shirt, granting him modesty, but he could feel the holographic clothes on him.

"What do you think?" the Xanar asked, holding up a mirror.

The neko stared at Artemis, and the tiger sighed.

"You're the one that will be wearing the clothes," he said. "Do you like them?"

Elias' head shook, almost imperceptibly.

"What needs to be changed? Are they too tight? Do you need shorter sleeves?"

A shrug.

"I'll try loose," the Xanar said, typing.

The clothes loosened visibly, and Artemis noticed the slightest relaxation in the neko's stance.

"Better?"