Many millennia ago, our kind arrived on Earth as Gifts from the Gods. Our soft and furry bodies were not enough to withstand the unpredictability of this world, so we had to resort to different tactics. Mankind was ambitious and mighty; their intelligence propelled them beyond any other living being on the planet. However, they had one weakness.
CUTENESS.
Our kind is that of scholars, schemers and skilful manipulators. Little did they know that we were silently observing, biding our time and gathering information for our leaders.
Charmed by our triangular ears and softness, they let us into their homes and allowed us to control their lives. We became coveted lifelong companions and family to those who gave us food and shelter.
The issue is that, unlike our astral selves, our physical bodies are fragile. The cost of walking alongside humans is a shorter lifespan. Those of the highest ranks had a preventative measure that allowed them to carry out their mission for longer: nine lives.Of course, once our physical bodies perish, we return to the realm of the intangible. However, it takes time to build another worthwhile vessel.
One late night, a very high-ranked emissary was on duty.Attempting to cross the road, he was nearly struck if not for the efforts of one valiant young woman. In return, he gifted her one of his lives.
But he quickly discovered that a feline's life was not an equivalent exchange to that of a human.