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God, what an incredibly dull day…. Johann lamented as his fingers danced amongst the surface of the clacking keyboard keys. Johann’s hands shot skyward as he stretched while seated in the recesses of his drab office chair. He lethargically rested his head atop the surface of his desk as his eyes drifted toward the ticking wall clock. The small device quietly clicked as one of the small black hands traversed the perimeter. There’s barely any work to get done today. Johann pondered with a sigh. His fingers rhythmically drummed against the desk, and his eyes scanned his dull office room, desperately trying to stave off his boredom.
Johann’s eyes fell upon a generic motivational poster depicted with a feline beastwoman desperately holding onto a branch. Hang in there, huh? Johann grumbled as he recited the words inscribed on the poster. I’m trying my best. If no clients are around, I just have to pretend I'm working on something. Johann released a sigh. Well, I guess I’m still helping people. He eyed a small potted plant on his desk, which was gifted to him from a particularly thankful dryad. That’s what the Demihuman Aptitude Agency is here for. Johann mentally steeled himself. Adapting to the big city can be challenging, especially if the client isn't used to the overwhelming presence of technology here. Johann smirked as he reminisced. Teaching an elderly werewolf from a magick-oriented tribe about cell phones was an interesting experience, to say the least. Johann glumly sighed. Still, I wish I had a client today. Nothing is going on….
Well, if Yuki were here, I definitely wouldn't be bored. Johann grumbled. She had some business today in the Kitsune sanctum she grew up in. It’s not like she gave me any details. Johann took a minute sip out of his coffee mug. My hands would be full if that Kitsune were here to bother me…. It's hard to believe that a fox woman is my superior sometimes. Johann silently pondered as he laid his coffee mug back down. Memories of Yuki's various antics flooded Johann's mind. One time Yuki handed Johann a hefty stack of paperwork, only for the illusive paperwork to dissipate as soon as Johann sat at his desk. Another time, when Johann was trying to sneak in a nap on a slow day, flickering fox fire would dance around in his room, stopping him from getting any shuteye. Sometimes Yuki would even use her shapeshifting abilities to mess with Johann. Whenever Johann saw Yuki with her signature troublesome grin, he had to brace himself for teasing from the naughty Kitsune. I can't even complain since she's extremely good at her job. Johann let out an exhausted sigh. Besides, her pranks aren’t really malicious, I guess.
A faint knocking on Johann’s door roused Johann from his trance. As soon as Johann heard that thumping, he swiftly fixed his posture, adjusted his hair, and tidied up his desk. “Yes, come in.” Johann loudly stated to the mysterious visitor. Slowly the door creaked open, and then a gigantic black snout emerged from behind the entrance.
“Um… Johann…?” The large black creature meekly squeaked out.
"Yes, what is it, Chen?" Johann calmly spoke to the colossal bear yaoguai. “Was there anything you needed from me?”
“Um, well….” Chen murmured as his form slowly crept through the door. "We have a client here, waiting for your assistance…." He nervously tapped his claws together.
“What? Really, is that true?” Johann inquired in disbelief. “Yuki never notified me about having any clients today….”
“Well, apparently, she's one of Yuki's relatives," Chen lightly mewled. “Maybe Yuki forgot to mention it to you?”
“Wha—?!“ Johann mumbled with a stupefied look on his face. “She wants me to take on a Kitsune client? Isn’t that supposed to be Yuki’s specialty?”
"That's correct," Chen stated with a nod. "However, she's not here today, so someone else will have to take care of the client."
“I don’t know if I’m qualified for this client, Chen." Johann stammered. "What about Haru? She's a Tanuki, right? They shapeshift and have an affinity for magick, just like Kitsune." Johann murmured. "Wouldn't she be more qualified?"
"When we spoke over the phone, Yuki had specifically requested that you oversee this specific client." Chen softly spoke. "She said that you've picked up on her guidance extremely fast and are more than qualified for taking on a Kitsune client."
He’s not wrong…. Johann grumbled as he recalled all the clients he had assisted Yuki with. "This isn't a prank, right?" Johann cautiously probed the yaoguai. "You know how Yuki likes to mess with me sometimes.” Why is it always me, anyways? Johann mused with a groan.
“Y—yes, I’m aware.” Chen continued to tap his claws together. "She takes our work very seriously, though, so I don't think she's playing a trick on you this time." Chen nodded.
Johann let out a weary sigh. “Okay, okay. I’ll handle it, don’t worry.” Johann composed himself. “So, when is the client coming in?”
"Actually, she's uh…." Chen's meek voice trailed off for a moment. "Your client is waiting for you to see her in the lobby."
“What?” Johann nearly shouted. "What does Yuki expect from me?" Johann furiously scanned through his work emails. "She didn't even send me a file on the client." He let out a frustrated grumble. "I don't know what to expect from our client."
"Y—Yuki said that you'd figure it out." Chen shyly stuttered. "She said you knew what to expect with Kitsune since you got along with her so well."
“Yeah, we get along great.” Johann sighed. More like she torments me for her own amusement. “Don’t worry, I’ll handle everything.” Johann slowly rose from his chair. “I’ll just give Yuki a piece of my mind when she returns." He grabbed a folder filled with various work documents from his cabinet.
"U—um, okay…." Chen slowly slinked toward the exit. "Thanks, Johann."
"Yeah, no problem, Chen," Johann murmured as he double-checked his belongings. “It’s all a part of the job description.” He casually squeezed past the meek bear yaoguai toward the lobby. Why is such a big guy like Chen so shy, anyways? Johann smirked with amusement as he continued to trek forward. I remember when I saw him on my first day. Johann lightly chuckled. I had no idea he was such a gentle giant at the time. Johann stopped before the door leading to the lobby. Alright, here goes nothing…. Johann passed through the boundary and gazed around the eerily quiet waiting room. All the chairs were vacant except for one occupied by a vulpine woman with her snout stuffed into a magazine. Well, it's pretty apparent who the client is. Johann briskly strolled toward her with an assured gait.
Johann took in her appearance as he approached the fox. She bore a striking resemblance to Yuki, with her snowy white and tan fur. She wore a simple beige sweater, black shorts, and black digitigrade anthro shoes. She was intensely focused on her reading material and did not notice Johann's approach. Johann peered down at the distracted vulpine as he stood before her. “Ahem!” Johann loudly cleared his throat in an attempt to grab her attention.
“Ah!” The fox woman violently jumped in her seat. The vulpine woman lowered her magazine and then adjusted her glasses, which were previously obfuscated by her magazine. “Um, are you…? Johann?” She gingerly laid down her magazine on the nearby table. "Sister Yuki told me that you could help me out….”
“Yes, that's correct, ma'am, though I haven’t caught your name yet, miss…?” Johann peered down at her, eager for her answer.
“It’s Kasumi.” The Kitsune stood up and gave Johann a dignified bow. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”
Johann noticed two swishing tails behind the polite Kitsune. Yuki has seven tails, so I guess Kasumi is pretty inexperienced as a Kitsune. Johann lightly chuckled. “There’s no need to be so formal, Kasumi.” He gave the polite vulpine a warm smile. “I know we’ve just met, but if you’re Yuki’s sister, you can consider me a friend.”
"Ah, thank you, Johann." Kasumi reciprocated Johann’s amiable grin with one of her own. “You’re well acquainted with sister Yuki?” She inquired with a tilt of her head.
“Uh, yes, you could say that….” Johann murmured. If by acquainted, you mean she lives to torment me? Then sure, I’m well acquainted with Yuki. “Miss Yuki has… helped me with many projects in the office as she oversaw my training," Johann nodded. "She's a hardworking woman, despite some of her… quirks.” That’s not exactly a lie…. Johann mused.
“Oh? It sounds like you get along with her!” Kasumi clasped her hands together, and her two tails began to wag. “That’s great!”
“Heh, yeah….” Johann murmured with a sheepish smile. "Anyways, how about we get started, Kasumi." Johann motioned to the door that he had arrived from. “Let’s talk in my office. Follow me.” Johann began to trek back slowly.
"Okay," Kasumi stated as she began trailing closely behind Johann. “This won’t be too hard, right?” She murmured.
"It's quite simple, don't worry," Johann spoke as the pair left the lobby together. "If I ask a question that's too personal for you, then there’s no pressure to answer it, okay?”
“I see….” Kasumi’s soft voice emanated from behind Johann.
“Yuki didn’t give me any of your personal details, so you’ll have to tell me a bit about your history," Johann stated as he briskly paced down the hall. “Here’s my office,” Johann opened the entrance to his sanctum and gestured toward its interior. “After you, Kasumi.”
“My, what a gentleman,” Kasumi gave Johann an endearing smile as she passed into his office. “I’m sure all the ladies are head over heels for you.” She planted her rear in the chair facing Johann’s desk.
“Uh, heh….” Johann followed behind Kasumi and shut the door to his office. “That’s very kind of you, but I’m actually still single….” Johann mumbled, with his face burning bright in embarrassment.
“Oh…?” Kasumi’s curious voice rang out. “Is that so….” She lightly hummed in contemplation. “Well, I’m sure a charming young man like you must have a secret admirer somewhere out there.”
Johann briefly glanced at the potted plant on his desk as he flopped into his chair. “Ah, thank you for the compliment Kasumi….” Johann loudly cleared his throat. “Anyways, enough about me,” Johann began tapping furiously on his keyboard. “Can you give me your ID?” He gazed into Kasumi’s eyes expectantly.
Kasumi nodded, reached into her pocket, and pulled out a little plastic card. She gingerly placed the ID on Johann's desk. "Here you are."
Johann grasped the little plastic card and took a closer look at it. One of his hands elegantly danced atop his keyboard keys. "Okay, I've got your basic information in the system." Johann handed Kasumi's ID back to her. “Alright, how about you tell me more about yourself?” Johann’s hovered above his keyboard.
"Well…." Kasumi bore a look of contemplation. "Back at home with my sisters, I usually help with the cooking and cleaning, though I can be a little bit clumsy at times…."
“Is that something that you enjoy doing?” Johann inquired as his hands began to labor. “Or is there some job at the Kitsune sanctum that interests you more?”
“I'm still young compared to my sisters, so I've never really done anything important around there…." Kasumi murmured. "Maybe one day I can help my sisters make talismans or assist with the shrine rituals…."
"I see…." Johann nodded as Kasumi spoke. "Kitsune have a high affinity with the spiritual and magickal, so that makes sense." Johann cracked his knuckles for a brief moment before resuming his work. "We can test your level of magickal aptitude. Also, with an empty magick cylinder, we can see if you have a knack for magick synthesis. Magick cylinders infused with foxfire are extremely valuable, after all.”
“I bet I can do that!” Kasumi spoke with fiery determination. “I’ll take any tests or exams you give me.”
"I like your enthusiasm!" Johann grinned at the resolute vulpine. "We can also do an examination for your shapeshifting abilities," Johann murmured. "There are many opportunities for a shapeshifter, especially in the entertainment industry." Johann rifled through his desk's interior and pulled out a small picture. "One of my previous clients, a shy tanuki, had a knack for shapeshifting." He pushed the small photo closer to Kasumi. "He was always so nervous and skittish as his true form, but he grew more confident when he shapeshifted." Johann smiled as he reminisced. "I hear he’s found work at the local theatre as an actor.” Kasumi curiously gazed down at the minuscule photo. Johann shook hands with a portly tanuki man; both individuals had brilliant, gleaming smiles. Johann retrieved the picture and stowed it back into his desk.
“Okay, how do we get started?” Kasumi enthusiastically inquired. “I’m ready when you are!”
“Give me just a moment….” Johann's finger crashed down onto the enter key on his keyboard. "There we go." Johann reached into his desk's interior and pulled out a small black tablet. "Just give me some signatures here and here, and then we can get started," Johann stated as one of his digits pointed to the petite device's screen.
Kasumi’s fluffy finger elegantly swiped on the tablet’s screen. “There! Now we can get started, right?” She asked with a hopeful look.
Johann’s eyes hurriedly scanned the tablet's screen. "Yes, everything should be good to go now." He rose from his chair with his tablet in hand. "Sorry about all the forms and questions. It's just standard procedure." Johann sidled around his desk while Kasumi's eyes were glued to him. "Now that all the paperwork is out of the way, we can move to an examination room." As he moved toward the door, he glanced at the thrilled vulpine.
“Okay!” Kasumi excitedly shot up from her chair. “Let’s do this!” The ecstatic Kitsune blazed past Johann, and her form disappeared through the door.
"Hold on a sec! You don't even know where the exam room is…!" Johann clumsily chased after the excitable fox woman. As he passed through the door, he heard a smug voice echo down the hallway.
"It's this one, right?" Kasumi was lounging against the wall next to a door with an assured look on her face. "That's what my Kitsune instincts are telling me!"
Johann scurried over to the pleased Kitsune with his tablet in hand. “W—well yes, that is an examination room….” Johann composed himself after his impromptu sprint. “I suppose you just got lucky….” Johann gingerly held the door open for the peculiar fox woman. “Come on in.” Johann beckoned the smug vulpine inside.
"Why, thank you." With her head held high, Kasumi confidently strode past Johann into the examination room. "It's time to showcase my talents!"
Johann followed after the excitable Kitsune with a sigh. I guess it’s just natural for Kitsune to be a handful. Johann entered the room and gently closed the door. Well, at least it’s not on purpose like Yuki….
Johann scanned the colossal, drab room as he considered his options. What should we start with…? His eyes fell upon a metal locker sitting against the flanking wall, filled with various measurement devices. We could check her magickal aptitude. Maybe she'll be a prodigy just like Yuki? Or perhaps, we could just see if Kasumi has any talent for shapeshifting before we take any tools out. Johann glanced at the other portion of the room, where many writing desks and shelves sat. She did say she was interested in making talismans; that's another option. Johann let out an exhausted sigh. Where should we start? I’ve never helped out a Kitsune client before….
"Hey! What's the hold-up!?" Kasumi's ecstatic voice boomed from Johann's flank.
“Gah!” Johann jolted in surprise. He swiftly spun around toward the excitable vulpine. “Please don’t surprise me like that….” Johann tapped away at his tablet. “How about we start with talisman writing? You seemed to have an interest in that.” Johann walked toward the writing desks, with the curious Kitsune close behind. “Take a seat anywhere you’d like.” Johann paced to the nearby shelves and quickly snatched some tools. There's a brush, some ink, and a sheet of paper. Johann returned to the Kitsune with his items in hand. He gently laid the items down within Kasumi's reach.
“Oh, I’ve seen these before!” The fox woman bounced in her chair with what seemed like limitless energy.
"Yuki brought these tools from the Kitsune sanctum, so it's good you're familiar with them." Johann swiped at his tablet and laid the device close to Kasumi. "Here are some recommended talismans for you to try painting." Johann's digit pointed toward the tablet's screen. "I'm sure you've seen your sisters make some of these before."
“Okay! I’ll give it my best shot!” Kasumi rolled up her sleeves and gently grasped the brush.
“I’ll leave you to your work. Just call me if you have any questions.” Johann paced away from the Kitsune. This isn’t so hard! I’m not sure why I was so worried earlier. Johann rummaged through his pockets in search of his cell phone. He pulled out the elusive device and activated it. Oh? A message from Yuki…? His digit swiftly tapped on the messaging app in anticipation of what his superior had said. ‘How is the appointment going so far with the client?’ Johann mentally recited Yuki's words. His digits leaped around on the digital interface of the device. ‘No problems so far! You can count on me!’ Johann mentally double-checked his response. There, that should be good. Johann paused for a moment. I should put my phone on vibrate, just in case.
“I’m done!” Kasumi’s distant voice echoed throughout the room.
“Ah, that’s wonderful!” Johann stowed his phone and sauntered back toward the Kitsune. That wasn’t long at all. She must be extremely talented, just like Yuki. Johann’s pace quickened, as did his excitement to see Kasumi’s work.
“So? How did I do?” Kasumi crossed her arms and held her head up high with pride.
“Well then, let’s see….” Johann loomed over the table, eager to examine her work. However, even a mere glance at Kasumi’s labor was enough to give Johann pause. What… am I looking at? Johann held a neutral expression, but internally he was aghast. The brushwork on the paper was highly shaky; errant ink blots stained the talisman. Bluntly put, Kasumi’s brushwork resembled the crude scribblings of a young Kitsune kit. “Uh, what type of charm were you making, exactly?”
“It’s a talisman for good fortune!” Kasumi’s furry digit shot toward the resting tablet. “Can’t you see that?”
"Uh, yes, I can see that." Johann cleared his throat in a desperate attempt to regain his composure. "Can you explain to me what that is?" Johann pointed at one of the talisman's corners.
“Oh! That’s my signature!” Kasumi held her snout skyward with pride. "So when someone's day is better because of that talisman, they know who to thank!"
“I… see…” Johann noticed yet another irregularity in the talisman. The paper charm had some ink smudges errantly on it. “Kasumi, what is that supposed to be?”
"Oh! I accidentally got some ink on my paws…." Kasumi murmured as she flexed her ink-stained digits. “Oops….” The ditsy Kitsune nonchalantly shrugged. “Well, accidents happen. The talisman should still work, right?”
"Uh, how about you wash off your paws while I prepare for the next exam. There's a bathroom right over there." Johann's hand extended toward the other side of the spacious examination room.
“Okay! You got it!” The vulpine hopped out of her chair and enthusiastically bounded toward the washroom.
Johann let out a weak sigh as his hand-typed away at his tablet. Well, that was certainly… something. Johann grumbled as he considered his words. Needs improvement…. Johann recited as his hand labored on the small device. That should be fine, right?
A buzzing sensation within Johann's pant pocket nabbed his attention. Johann's free hand swiftly fished out his humming device. Johann's thumb impacted the small button, and the machine came to life with a click. ‘That’s great to hear! Give me some updates about her progress whenever you are available.’ Johann repeated Yuki’s words in his mind. Johann felt his exhaustion intensify upon reading Yuki’s message. Oh, brother…. Johann struggled to find the proper words. After a moment of deliberation, his digits got to work. ‘She finished her first exam just now. Kasumi shows a lot of potential!’ A sigh of relief escaped from Johann’s lips. There…. Johann was nearly about to stow his phone away, yet the small device once again buzzed with activity. Brimming with curiosity, Johann brought his cell phone up to his face. ‘I’m glad I entrusted this to you, Johann. It seems you get along with Kitsune quite easily!’ Johann groaned as he read Yuki’s reply.
“Okay, I’m back!” Kasumi’s eager voice abruptly rang out close to Johann. “What’s next?”
She didn’t even surprise me that time. I guess I’m getting somewhat used to this Kitsune's antics. Johann put his cell away as he gazed at his tablet. "Well, since you've already tried drawing the talisman, how about we measure your magickal aptitude?" Johann hummed in contemplation. “You can sit back down. Give me a moment while I grab something.” Johann fished out a small metal key as he walked toward the metal locker sitting against the wall. “Drawing the talisman design is one thing, but infusing it with magick is another thing.” Johann stood before the vault with his key in hand.
“Why do we need to do that?” Kasumi’s inquisitive voice echoed throughout the room. “I’ve made the talisman. Can't you just check it out?”
“We just used some plain ink and paper for that, so no, we can’t.” Johann absentmindedly murmured as he gathered a couple peculiar devices with his free hand. "It's not like we'll use paper made from a spirit tree or ink with exceptional magick absorption for some practice. We would go out of business pretty fast.” Johann spun around and strode back to Kasumi with his items in hand.
"Oh, well, that makes sense." Kasumi nodded. “So, what’s next!?” Kasumi asked with obvious excitement written on her muzzle.
“Well, I was curious about your magick talents….” Johann gingerly placed the pair of devices atop the table. “So I grabbed these.”
“What are those?” Kasumi asked eagerly as her two tails swished erratically.
Johann lightly picked up one of the tools, a small cylindrical vial with a small glass window. "This is an empty magick cylinder." Johann gently twisted the cylinder around so Kasumi could get a better look. "I'm sure you're familiar with magick cylinders and how they affect our day-to-day life, but I still have to give you an explanation." Johann gingerly laid the magick cylinder down next to the other strange device. “It’s just standard procedure.”
Johann loudly cleared his throat. "Magick cylinders are used daily to make life easier." Johann's fingers lightly danced on his tablet’s interface. “It’s an ingenious invention that allows the magickally inclined to take advantage of their talents. With the advent of technology, the miracles of magick aren’t as necessary for many Demihuman tribes.” Johann’s head shook from side to side. Anyways, before I get on a tangent…." Johann laid his tablet on the table, which now had many pictures inscribed upon it. "Fire magick cylinders are often used for heating systems and magick firearms. Water magick cylinders tend to be used for clean water, for both irrigation systems and drinking. Lightning magick cylinders can serve as an alternative to electricity systems." Johann loudly cleared his throat. "I'm sure you get the gist; I'll try not to bore you." One of Johann’s fingers shot up. “However, there was one I forgot to mention.” Johann gazed into Kasumi’s eyes. “That would be foxfire magick cylinders.” Johann idly scratched his chin in thought. “Foxfire is a spiritual flame that lasts longer compared to typical fire magick cylinders, poses less of a safety hazard, and is less detrimental to our environment.” Johann cleared his throat. “Yet, many Kitsune sects are opposed to the idea of this for many reasons, though the reasons tend to be mostly religious. There has been much debate about the ‘exploitation of the spiritual gift of the Kitsune’ within Kitsune social circles.” He awkwardly scratched the back of his neck. “At least, that’s what Yuki has told me.”
Kasumi cocked her head to the side with a peculiar look. “You’re pretty knowledgeable for a human. I thought humans didn’t have much affinity for magick.”
"Yes, I suppose that's correct," Johann murmured thoughtfully. "Humans tend to be more technologically inclined, just like dwarves, kobolds, and lizardmen. That's only scratching the surface since we share this planet with hundreds of different types of Demihumans.” Johann hummed in contemplation. “Though, of course, most species can learn magick.” Johann’s gaze drifted off. “It’s extremely difficult to train one’s ability to sense mana. A human could study, drink magick concoctions and meditate for years in the pursuit of the magickal arts. But, even so, their abilities would be trumped by a Kitsune kit or a werewolf pup from a shamanistic tribe.”
“So why did you join the DAA anyways?” Kasumi inquired. “You seem to have a lot of interest in the magickal, even though you aren’t gifted.”
“Well….” Johann contemplated his words for a few moments. Jeez, that bit of a personal question…. “I suppose helping other people find their calling is my calling, so to say. When I came to this city, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I simply applied here on a whim.” Johann gave the inquisitive Kitsune a warm smile. “The team here has been super welcoming. It’s been pretty pleasant working here.” Johann idly tapped his foot as he continued to reminisce. “I guess most of all, I’m thankful to Yuki, even though she can be a pain in the butt at times….” Johann abruptly snapped out of his trance. “Uh, don’t tell her that.” Johann’s gaze quickly swapped between Kasumi and the magickal devices. "We shouldn't get sidetracked, though." Johann quickly snatched the empty magick cylinder and snapped it into a slot, jutting out of the other device he brought.
"What exactly is that other thing?" The peculiar device seized Kasumi's attention. The device had a small metallic base, a pole jutting out in the middle, and a glass dome covering. A small inactive monitor sat on the back of the device, right next to two handles with plastic grips.
“It’s a mana condenser.” Johann flatly stated as he continued to tinker with the two tools. “Simply put, it’s how you get an individual’s magick contained inside of the magick cylinder.” Johann’s digit flipped a small switch on the mana condenser, bringing the device to life. "What sort of magick are you versed with, Kasumi?"
“Well, I use fire magic for cooking…." Kasumi's ears and tail shot straight up. "Oh! I also have foxfire." Kasumi crossed her arms as a smug look appeared on her face. "Foxfire is the pride of the Kitsune."
"That seems pretty typical for a Kitsune." Johann idly murmured as he continued to set up the peculiar device. "Okay, we should be good to go." Johann's digit pointed at two small handles connected to the mana condenser. "Hold onto those, and then focus your magick through your palms."
“You got it!” Kasumi nodded eagerly as her furry palms gripped the device’s shafts.
"Just, uh, please start slow and make sure you keep your grip on those handles firmly." Johann let out an exhausted sigh. "One of my clients versed with lightning magick gave it their all, and they ended up overloading the breaker box."
“I understand!” Kasumi confidently said, with resolute determination plainly written on her face.
A shrill beep abruptly rang out from the device. “Okay, it looks like everything is working so far.” Johann’s hand and eyes worked in tandem to oversee the device’s progress. “You can start to add some more juice slowly."
"Okay, I'll go all out!" Kasumi's eyes narrowed as she dedicated every ounce of her focus to her magick.
“Okay….” Johann patiently observed the mana condenser’s progress.
“Bleh….” Kasumi let out a weak huff as her grip on the machine’s handles loosened. “I think that’s all I’ve got….”
"Huh?" Johann asked in disbelief. His eyes darted between the magick cylinder, the mana condenser's user interface, and Kasumi's exhausted face. That can’t be it…. right? Johann rapidly blinked his eyes in an attempt to dissolve his doubt, yet the number on the digital interface did not change. The magick power in that crystal… is nearly equivalent to a box of matches….
“Phew….” Kasumi wiped some sweat off her brow. “That was hard work!” Kasumi looked up at Johann eagerly. “So, how was I this time?”
"Uh, well, you definitely have a talent for fire magic." Johann fibbed as he sought to get his thoughts in order desperately. "What about the foxfire you mentioned earlier, though?"
"Oh? You want a demonstration?" Kasumi's two tails stood erect as a look of focus came to her muzzle. "Watch this…." A pair of faint blue lights manifested above each of Kasumi's tails. "So, are you impressed?" Kasumi questioned, without a hint of humility in her voice.
Johann silently stared at the duo of spiritual flames. That looks nothing like Yuki’s foxfire…. Johann languidly mused. I'm not an expert on Kitsune, but even I can tell it's nothing impressive. It looks more like a cheap party trick…. Johann cleared his throat in order to seize Kasumi's attention. "That's… enough." He muttered with evident exhaustion in his tone. "How about we examine your shapeshifting talents?"
“Oh, okay!” Kasumi bounced eagerly in her chair as the two fox flames disappeared. “Wait, what should I do?”
“Uh, Kitsune need a catalyst to shapeshift, right?” Johann’s arm lazily extended at one of the wooden doors nearby. “You can grab a leaf from there. I’ve seen Yuki use those sometimes.”
“I’ll find it, don’t worry!” Kasumi dashed off eagerly. A moment later, the fluffy vulpine passed through the door.
Johann lethargically flumped into the nearby chair as soon as Kasumi was out of sight. I’ve never had a client like this before. Johann groaned as he continued to slump in his seat. The third time is the charm, right? Johann sluggishly pulled out his phone from his pocket. He simply stared at the device for a few moments. What would I even tell Yuki? Johann's thumb brought the machine to life. Hey, sorry, your sister has no talent. I couldn’t help her.
As Johann despaired, his phone hummed within the palm of his hand. What, again…? Johann stared at the notification on the device’s interface. After a moment, Johann’s digit slowly clicked on the messaging app. ‘So, is the consultation going well with sister Kasumi?’ Johann swiftly scanned Yuki’s inquiry. I've never had this much trouble before; what do I tell her? Johann felt his determination sapping away. ‘We’re slowly making progress together.’ Johann’s finger tapped away on the cell phone’s interface. I don’t know how much longer I can do this….
The subtle sound of furry feet scampering across the floor reached Johann’s ears. His head slowly swiveled over to see Kasumi dashing over. Oh, there she is…. Johann lethargically mused. Well, I guess we can see if she has any talent for shapeshifting.
“I’m back!” Kasumi eagerly shouted as she gently grasped a kitsune’s leaf in her two paws. “Okay, it’s time to show you what I—“ Kasumi’s ecstatic voice abruptly stopped. “Wh—Whoa!” The ditzy vulpine yelped as she stumbled over her own feet, collapsing into a furry mass. “Oh….” The dazed fox woman groaned.
“Kasumi, are you okay?” Johann shot up from his chair to rush to her.
“I’m fine….” Kasumi mewled. “Here’s the….” Kasumi’s ears and tail shot straight up. “Oh no….”
“What?” Johann offered his hand to the Kitsune. “Is everything okay?”
"Well, I…." Kasumi murmured as she arose with Johann's help. "I might have crushed the leaf…." Kasumi's other paw shot out with a crumpled leaf in her palm.
“That’s not a big deal….” Johann let out a breath of relief. “I’m just glad you’re okay….”
"Don't worry, I can still do it!" Kasumi desperately babbled as she placed the ruined leaf atop her head. "I can shapeshift. Just watch!" Kasumi stated with resolute determination, yet her form did not change.
A drawn-out sigh escaped Johann's lips. "That's enough Kasumi."
“S—so, did I do okay?” Kasumi quietly asked, with a sheepish smile on her muzzle. “Did I get a passing grade?”
“Well, we don’t give out ‘passing grades’ here.” Johann faintly muttered as he looked over his written notes on his tablet. Needs improvement, unimpressive and insufficient…. Johann mentally recited. Well, I gave it an honest try. I just hope Yuki won’t get on my case for this…. Johann lightly cleared his throat. "Alright, Kasumi, we've tried a few things together, but I don't think—"
“Nooooo!” Kasumi yelped. “Wait, can I get another chance!?” Kasumi nearly tackled Johann, and then she desperately wrapped her furry arms around him.
“H—hey!” Johann blurted out as his face burned with embarrassment. “Kasumi!?"
“I don’t want to go back to my sisters empty-handed!" Kasumi blubbered with her snout buried in Johann's abdomen. "They'll just call me a 'clumsy two-tails'!" She sniffed as her grip on Johann tightened. "I don't want to only cook and clean!"
Johann was speechless at the sight of the sniffling vulpine clinging onto him desperately. Ugh, now I feel like a bad guy…. Johann winced as he considered his options. I'm not going to do this, am I? Johann questioned himself. I’m too much of a softie…. Johann loudly cleared his throat. "Kasumi, can you let me go, please?"
“Okay, I’m sorry….” Kasumi mewled as she reluctantly loosened her grip on Johann. “I’ll just be going now….”
“What I was going to say,” Johann loudly interjected, stopping the depressed vulpine in her tracks. “Is that you have a lot of potential that needs to be realized." Johann reached into his pocket for his wallet, and then he pulled out a small rectangular card from its interior. "Here's Yuki's personal cell number." Johann handed the cardboard card to the bewildered Kitsune. "If you just tell her Johann sent you, I'm sure she wouldn't object to overseeing your case personally." Johann awkwardly murmured. "She's a lovely woman and an extremely experienced Kitsune, so I'm sure she'd be able to make your talents flourish."
"You're really giving me this?" Kasumi asked in disbelief. "Kasumi is a seven tailed Kitsune. She's a big deal…."
"It's fine." Johann smiled at the ditzy vulpine. "I know it might be intimidating since she's your elder, but Yuki is one of the kindest people I know.” Johann nodded. “You can trust me on that.”
"Oh, thank you so much!" Kasumi babbled as she wrapped her arms around Johann once more. "Thank you!"
“Uh, it’s not a big deal….” Johann muttered as he avoided the thankful Kitsune’s gaze, fearful that she would notice his embarrassment. "You can just go back to the front lobby and go talk to Chen while I finish up your report."
“Okay!” Kasumi released Johann, and then she gleefully bounced toward the exit. “Thank you again, Johann!”
"It was no problem." Johann jolted for a second. "Uh, by the way, Chen is the male bear yaoguai, if you forgot," Johann called out to the ecstatic Kitsune, who was now gone. Jeez…. Johann let out a weak sigh as he walked toward the same door. That was certainly a challenge. Johann passed through the exam room's door with his tablet in hand. Still, I’m glad we had a happy ending. Johann smiled as his palm gripped the doorknob leading to his office. That’s what makes this job so rewarding for me. Johann deposited his rear in his comfy office chair. Seeing her happy and excited like that makes me glad.
Johann laid his tablet down on his desk, and then he cracked his knuckles. Well, I guess I should finish up her report…. One of Johann’s hands fell upon the mouse. Now, let’s see here…. The clicking of the mouse rang out as Johann scanned his client database. Kasumi starts with K, so she should be…. Johann abruptly stopped. Huh? He froze at the sight of the monitor. Where’s her file? Johann refreshed his database, yet Kasumi did not show up. I sent the file from my tablet, right? Johann's gaze swapped between the monitor and the tablet erratically. Johann scratched the top of his head with a bewildered look. I guess we've got a problem with the system, then…. Johann’s hand slowly reached for his phone.
“Thank you!” Kasumi enthusiastically called out to the nodding meek yaoguai as she ventured through the front entrance of the Demihuman agency. Today went a lot better than I expected…. Kasumi mused with a grand smile on her muzzle. The door behind her was shut, and the city was here before her in all its glory. A multitude of Demihuman races went about their days within the drab city landscape. The two-tailed Kitsune slowly ambled toward the sidewalk, joining the various other individuals in the bustling streets. Her furry arm snaked downward toward her pocket with the intent to rummage through its insides. Kasumi gingerly pulled out a little rectangular card from the depths of her shorts. She twirled the business card around as she walked, examining it from different angles. Hm…. Kasumi lightly hummed as her eyes narrowed on the cell phone number inscribed on the card’s back. A private line to Yuki, huh?
The vulpine woman let out an amused chuckle. You’re giving out special treatment now? My word Johann, how naughty. The Kitsune mischievously snickered with a cunning glint in her eye. She carelessly stuffed the little card back into the recesses of her pockets. The two-tailed fox adopted an entirely different persona as if the previously meek and ditzy Kasumi were possessed. Well, I suppose that’s enough of this little façade. The fox woman quickly weaved through various pedestrians, searching for the right spot. This should suffice. The vulpine mused as she ducked into a nearby alleyway.
Suddenly, the vulpine woman was surrounded by an otherworldly layer of mist. Her identity was obfuscated to any would-be onlookers in the area. As the haze slowly dissipated, the vulpine woman had taken on an entirely new identity. The Kitsune was now wearing an immaculate black blazer with a plain white undershirt. A pair of fancy black boot-cut pants covered her furry legs and a couple of black high-heels, which were specialized for digitigrade usage. A grand total of seven tails swished around erratically behind the fox woman. A lone furry digit adjusted the glasses perched upon the woman’s snout. The vulpine woman had completely transformed, adopting a sharp look and dignified aura.
As the fox woman reentered the streets, a buzzing within her jacket pocket seized her attention. She gingerly pulled out a humming phone and activated the small device. "Hello?" She softly spoke.
"Hey there, Yuki!" The masculine yet gentle voice boomed over the phone's speakers. "I was just calling you to update you on our client."
“Oh?” Yuki gleefully smirked. “How did it go?”
“Well, honestly, it was a bit of a challenge, but I think I found something that works for her!” Johann excitedly reported.
"Ah, that's wonderful," Yuki murmured with a warm smile on her snout.
"Just, uh, don't be surprised if you get a call from her." Johann awkwardly muttered. "I was thinking she could use some advice from an experienced Kitsune like you."
“I see. I shall keep that in mind." Yuki elegantly stated.
“Oh, uh, I’m not bothering you during your little trip, am I?” Johann apologetically mumbled. "How is that going, anyway?"
"Oh!" Yuki cleared her throat. "It went well. Thank you for asking, dear." It went exceptionally well, in fact. Yuki mused with a soft smile. It’s much more fun here with you, rather than listening to some stuffy, old Kitsune lecture me at the sanctum. “I’ll be coming back to the office soon.”
“Oh, okay,” Johann swiftly stated. “I’ll see you soon then.”
“Take care, Johann.” A shrill beep emanated from the phone’s speakers, signifying the end of the call. Yuki’s gaze lingered at the sight of Johann’s contact info inscribed on her phone’s screen. At first, I just wanted to see how Johann would fare without me…. A devious grin found its way to Yuki’s muzzle. But all of his reactions today were so cute! The Kitsune woman snickered as she stowed her cell phone away. Oh, it was just too good! He was so adorable when he desperately tried to hide his blushing face when I hugged him! Yuki’s stride stopped for a moment as her mischievous smirk intensified. Yuki, you genius! The vulpine woman quickly retrieved her phone as if her life depended on it. I can take Johann to that restaurant I love! Her furry digits elegantly drummed against her phone’s digital interface. I can just tell him it’s to celebrate all his hard work recently. Yuki giggled in delight. It’s a date! I can’t wait to have some chicken katsu…. The Kitsune resumed her stride down the sidewalk, sporting a grand smile.