This is Kura's first Christmas in the city. Or ever, really. In fact, she has never heard of it before; where she came from, life could be a bit... out of touch. She is fascinated by it all - the dazzling lights, the infinite loop of music, the joyful atmosphere, everything. She wants to be part of it.

She went to the maneki-neko for help but was quickly dismissed. "You know I'm busy with stock-taking right now," said the animated mascot, who runs a thrift shop for her owner. "Go bother the stupid fish, bet she's sitting on her bum as usual."

So she did, and said fish was only too happy to oblige. The carp spirit serves in a nearby shrine, and according to her "no one visits during holiday season anyway", while her master was "off somewhere again". She promised to tell Kura all about the festivities, help with decorations even, and together they spent the rest of the day procuring the necessary supplies.

Of course, Kura did most of the heavy lifting and her companion contributued little more than words, but does it matter? She is about to throw a Christmas party for the friends she has made in the city, who took her in and guided her when she was struggling to find her footing. Now, all that's left is to wait for everyone to show up...