The neon blue light of the keyboard reflects off the smooth, wrinkled skin of the true squad leader. While the player nervously navigates the corners of the map, clutching the mouse in a focused grip, the Cat assumes its rightful post, directly on top of the hardware.
In the heat of the round, the stakes are high. The screen flashes with the tension of a Last Round Before Swap, but the Sphynx remains unbothered by the virtual gunfire. Instead, it offers a distinct tactile challenge. By draping itself across the number pad and wrist rest, it forces the gamer to adopt a new, awkward hand position. This is not sabotage, it is advanced training. If one can aim with a warm, purring weight pressing down on their wrist, one can aim through anything.
At times, the feline gaze shifts from the digital battlefield to the person holding the controls. The wide, pale eyes convey a silent commentary on the current performance. It is a look of stern coaching. You heard those footsteps, didn’t you? Go mid. Don’t peek.
The AKG microphone stands ready to capture callouts, but it mostly picks up the soft rumbling of a purr. This is the reality of modern esports in this household, a duo queue where only one participant has thumbs, but the Cat calls all the shots.
Shannon Willis can usually be found in the company of furry friends. A passionate animal enthusiast, her work is often inspired by her deep love for cats, dogs, and the animal kingdom as a whole.
