Loki jumped. He'd been listening for steps on his way back from the library, but Bast walked as silently as ... well, a cat. No big surprise actually.

He took a deep breath. The kitty wasn't an enemy either, though it was a little disappointing to see that she'd changed out of her most petable shape. She was so nice and warm and soft in her cat form.

"Ouch," he complained, though not very forcefully. "Can't you talk out loud like everybody else? I happen to have two hands free. Where would you like me to scratch?"

This shape might not be as petable as the other one, but it was still furry enough to be attractive.