Throwback: Runaway Cats!

Summary

Summary of "Throwback: Runaway Cats!"

Stories Podcast: A Bedtime Show for Kids of All Ages
Host: Amanda Weldon
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Episode: Throwback: Runaway Cats!

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Introduction

In the "Throwback: Runaway Cats!" episode, Amanda Weldon takes listeners on a nostalgic journey by retelling one of the podcast's beloved classic stories. This episode is a perfect blend of adventure, friendship, and bravery, tailored to captivate both children and adults alike.

Story Overview

The narrative centers around two contrasting kittens, Gowen and Koma, whose deep friendship transcends their different lifestyles. Gowen, a robust and spirited kitten, lives a dual life—indoor comfort with his music teacher owner by day and adventurous prowling in the alleys by night. In contrast, Koma, a delicate and graceful kitten, enjoys a serene and pampered existence with her caring owner. Their nightly meetings under a cherry tree spark a profound bond, leading them to make a life-changing decision to live together despite the challenges it presents.

Characters

• Gowen: A tall, strong kitten with thick paws and shaggy fur. Known for his quickness, cleverness, and kindness, Gowen balances his indoor pampering with nocturnal adventures.

• Koma: A petite, soft-furred kitten characterized by her grace and quiet demeanor. She epitomizes the gentle and meticulous care provided by her owner.

• The Girl (Princess): A compassionate young girl whose timely intervention becomes pivotal in Gowen's journey.

• Owners: Gowen's owner is a music teacher who treasures his companionship, believing Gowen brings him luck. Koma's owner is a devoted lady who takes immense pride in caring for her.

Key Scenes

1. The Blossoming Friendship ([02:00] – [05:00])

Under the enchanting pink petals of a cherry tree, Gowen and Koma meet for the first time. Their immediate connection leads to nights filled with conversation, laughter, and shared songs under the moonlight. Gowen shares a heartfelt haiku, reciting at [04:30]:

"Meeting you was a happy surprise.
The sunshine at summer's dawning."

This poetic moment cements their desire to be together beyond their nightly rendezvous.

2. The Difficult Decision ([05:01] – [06:50])

Faced with the unwillingness of their respective owners to part with them, Gowen and Koma confront the reality that living apart is untenable for their friendship. At [06:00], Koma expresses her concern:

"I need to find Coma, he thought. She should be here with me that day."

Determined to stay together, they choose to leave their homes, embarking on an uncertain but hopeful adventure.

3. Encounter with Danger ([06:50] – [10:00])

Seeking refuge in a large park, the kittens are confronted by a menacing dog. Gowen bravely attempts to fend off the threat, showcasing his protective nature. However, the situation escalates when the dog corners him, leading to a perilous moment where Gowen is injured ([07:50]). Koma's distress cries out for help, prompting the arrival of a compassionate girl who rescues Gowen just in time.

4. Life in the Imperial Gardens ([10:00] – [14:00])

Post-rescue, Gowen finds himself in the opulent Imperial Gardens, a paradise he initially marvels at. Despite the splendor, Gowen's longing for Koma remains unmet, driving him to seek her out. His exploration leads to an unexpected encounter with a deadly mamushi snake threatening the princess, showcasing his bravery and quick reflexes.

5. Heroism and Reunion ([14:00] – [15:30])

In a climactic act of heroism, Gowen saves the princess from the venomous snake, earning admiration and gratitude from the palace guards. Recognizing his valor, the princess adopts both Gowen and Koma, uniting them in a life of happiness and fulfillment. Their reunion is heartfelt, symbolizing the triumph of friendship and courage.

Notable Quotes

• Gowen's Haiku ([04:30]):
  "Meeting you was a happy surprise.
  The sunshine at summer's dawning."

• Koma's Concern ([06:00]):
  "I need to find Coma, he thought. She should be here with me that day."

• Princess's Gratitude ([14:50]):
  "This kitty saves me."

• Gowen's Determination ([13:30]):
  "I have to find her. Had to."

Insights and Themes

"Runaway Cats!" delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and bravery. Gowen and Koma's journey underscores the lengths to which individuals will go to preserve meaningful relationships. The story also highlights the idea that true courage often involves selflessness, as demonstrated by Gowen's heroic act to save the princess. Additionally, the narrative emphasizes the search for belonging and the fulfillment that comes from being with loved ones.

Conclusion

In this throwback episode, Amanda Weldon masterfully retells a heartwarming story that resonates with listeners of all ages. Through the adventures of Gowen and Koma, the episode offers valuable life lessons wrapped in an engaging and magical tale. "Runaway Cats!" stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, making it a cherished episode for imaginative families seeking quality, screen-free entertainment.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Gowen's Haiku ([04:30]):
  "Meeting you was a happy surprise.
  The sunshine at summer's dawning."

• Koma's Concern ([06:00]):
  "I need to find Coma, he thought. She should be here with me that day."

• Princess's Gratitude ([14:50]):
  "This kitty saves me."

• Gowen's Determination ([13:30]):
  "I have to find her. Had to."

Additional Notes

• Adaptation and Performance:
  The story "Runaway Cats!" is an adaptation of a Japanese folktale, deftly written by Daniel Hines and brought to life through Amanda Weldon's engaging narration.

• Educational Value:
  The episode not only entertains but also imparts important moral lessons, making it an excellent choice for bedtime stories and family listening sessions.

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This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the "Throwback: Runaway Cats!" episode, highlighting its key elements, memorable moments, and the profound themes it explores. Whether you're new to the Stories Podcast or revisiting cherished episodes, this summary provides a clear and engaging overview of this delightful story.

Transcript

[Listener]

Hello.

[Amanda Weldon]

Welcome to Stories Podcast. I'm your host, Amanda Weldon. Today's story is a throwback episode. Tune in to hear one of our classic stories from the archive that you might have missed the first time around. We have Stories Podcast merch, [e-mail] shop. We're also on cameo for all of your personalized video message needs. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram Stories Podcast if you send us a drawing of your favorite scene or character, we'll share it on our feed. Now, here's a word from our sponsors. If you're a parent and you want to be doing everything you can to set your child up for success in school, then IXL is right for you. IXL is an online learning program for kids that covers math, language arts, science, and social studies and offers interactive practice problems for every topic from Pre K to 12th grade. Every topic is organized by grade and subject, or you can navigate by textbook. IXL has skill plans for specific textbooks so your child can get extra help for the exact unit they're covering in class.

[Listener]

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[Amanda Weldon]

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[Listener]

Thanks. Enjoy the episode Runaway Cats Once upon a time, there lived a mighty kitten. Though young, he was tall and strong, with thick paws and shaggy fur that twisted up from his ears. In the starlight, his his green eyes seemed to shine and pierce the gloom, letting him see even on the darkest night. He was quick and clever and kind, and his name was Gowen. By day, Gowen stayed inside with his owner, a kindly music teacher. There he would sleep above the warm stove. He'd catnap and listen with half an ear while his master taught students about pitch and timbre and the intricate workings of music theory. By night, he prowled the alleys, menacing the mice and leaping wall to wall. Next door lived a beautiful kitten by the name of Coma Where Gowan's fur was long and wild, hers was short and soft as silk. And where Gowan was huge, she was petite, tiny even for a kitten. She lived in the home of a great lady who gave her as gentle a life as you could wish for. Kolma did everything carefully and quietly. The little deer would blink her dainty eyelashes and eat her supper tidily, and when she finished, she licked her little pink nose with a delicate tongue. Every deed she did was done with grace, and she was her owner's pride and joy. Of course, it was only a matter of time before these two kittens should meet. One chance night, while Gowon was out hunting mice and Koma was taking herself for a midnight stroll, they happened upon each other under a cherry tree. There, while the pink petals danced and laughed in the moonlight, they became fast friends. They spent all night together, talking and laughing and meowing songs at the moon. They met again the next night and every night after. Soon the two cats were best friends and thought it would be better if they could live in the same house. That way they could be together during the day as well as during the night. It was a lovely idea, but there was just one problem. Neither owner was willing to part with their cat. Gowen's owner, the music teacher, thought that Gowon brought him luck. The lady who owned Coma took too much joy in doting on her. Neither was willing to part with their cat, no matter how much the two whined at them. One desperate night, the pair met again under their cherry tree. My owner will not let me go, said Gowan. He says I keep his voice sweet and his purse full. Khoma purred anxiously. Mine says much the same. I don't think they'll let us live together. Gowon paused, and then he remembered one of the haikus his master would sing. Just for practice, he said it aloud to Khoma. Meeting you was a happy surprise. The sunshine at summer's dawning. That was it. They both knew that they'd rather live on the streets together than in their houses apart. Cats are a decisive sort of creature. And so, their decision made, they left that very night. They turned their back on the cherry tree and followed the moon, laughing and singing and winding their way from one street to the next. As morning dawned, they found themselves in a large park. The grass was soft, and the trees cast dancing shadows in the gentle breeze. This seems like a good place to sleep away a sunny day, koma said. Absolutely, agreed, Gowen, stretching deeply, belly to the ground. Let's find a shady tree. The pair padded across the soft grass, leaning against each other, tails dancing as they walked. It was a beautiful morning, and they were truly hopeful for their future together. And that's when they heard the dog. It stomped from the shadow of a tree, muzzle bared, teeth festooned with thick strings of drool. It eyed the cats and growled, a low, deep growl, like rumbling earth. Koma said, gowen, get up a tree. Koma looked at him for a moment and then scrambled up a tree. The dog lunged after the tiny kitten, but Gowan got in his way. The cat arched his back, hair on end, to seem even bigger than he already was. The dog paused for a moment, unsure. It sniffed at the air, and Gowan could tell the mutt tasted cat on the breeze. He started to worry. Big as he was, the dog was much bigger.

[Amanda Weldon]

He darted for the tree, but the.

[Listener]

Dog was too close and it cut him off. Gowan spun the other way, and the dog circled him there too. Trapped. I'm trapped, he thought. From her perch high in the tree, Khoma looked on. She was too small to fight, but she spied a human girl walking through the park nearby. Taking a deep breath, she yowled for all she was worth. Excuse me. Help us. The human heard her cry and turn towards the sound, cocking her head. Oh, was that a kitty I heard? She called, walking towards Coma's tree. Here, kitty, kitty. The girl drew near and saw the dog corner Gowan and lunge forward. Its great big teeth snapped at the cat's head and Goan yelped and stumbled away, bleeding from one ear. No. Stop that. The girl said, walking between the cat and dog. The dog lowered its ears and slunk away, and the girl scooped the bloody Goan up into her arms. Before Coma could get out of the tree, the girl had tucked the big kitty into her basket and walked away. No, Gowan. She called, hurrying after him. Unfortunately, the girl walked up to a towering gate set into a towering wall, protected by gu with towering spears. The guards opened a small door for her, and she hurried through, and it shut behind her with a booming clang. Komo ran up, trying to find a way through, but there were no holes and the wall was high and smooth. What do I do now? She said to herself miserably. What in the world can I do? Gowon woke up the next morning in a bed of pillowed silk. Nearby there were bowls of food and water, and he could hear humans chatting in the next room. He climbed from bed, confused. Where am I? He wondered. He went to itch his head and his ear stung painfully. It hurt, but it brought the memories back in a rush. The park, the dog. Coma. Gowan looked all around, but Coma wasn't there. He'd have to go find her. While he thought, his belly rumbled, so he helped himself to the food and drink. Whiskers wet, he looked at his reflection in the water bowl. He had a cut on his cheek and was missing a big notch from one of his ears. Well, he said to himself, I guess it could have been worse. At least Coma got away. Oh, Kitty, you're awake. It was the girl, the one who'd saved him in the park. She scooped him up again and poked and prodded at his ear. At first it hurt, and Gowen considered giving her some claw. But then she spread on some kind of paste that felt wonderfully cool and soothing. After that, she brought Gowen outside and stood on a balcony. You see, Kitty? She asked, holding him up. It's the Imperial Gardens. You live here at the palace now, you lucky cat. The palace? He thought with wonder. It turned out the girl worked in the palace, and she gleefully showed him the kitchens dripping with food, the sparkling water that leapt from the fountains, and the beautiful ponds full of slow, fat fish. There was wonder after wonder. It was a marvelous place, truly a cat's paradise. And in the middle of it all stood a beautiful grove of cherry trees. I need to find Coma, he thought. She should be here with me that day. He prowled the grounds looking for a way out so he could find her. Try as he might, he couldn't find a way through the walls, and they were too high and steep to climb. He found a gutter he thought was promising, but it was sealed halfway down with an iron grate. Gowen wanted to scream in frustration. He lived in a paradise, but it wasn't truly a paradise without Coma. He had to find her. Had to. While he sat and thought, he watched a young girl walk across the Imperial Gardens. He didn't pay her too much attention until she sat under a rustling tree. That bothered Gowan for a second. Why was that tree rustling and no other? There wasn't a breeze. He padded closer and saw it. There in the reddish leaves of the tree, there was a great rust brown mamushi snake, one of the deadliest in all of Japan. It was uncoiling itself slowly, tongue flicking at the air. Oh no. Gowan realized it was getting ready to drop on the girl and give her its terrible bite. Without thinking, the rough and tumble cat ran towards her. At the same moment, the snake hissed as it dropped, and the girl looked up and screamed as it lashed at her face, its needle sharp fangs extended. The mamushi struck like a lightning bolt. But Gowan was faster, his reflexes sharp from hunting the quick street mice. He leapt and caught the snake in the air, just inches from the young girl's cheek. With the snake in his teeth, Gowen landed and shook his head, whipping the serpent back and forth until it went still in his jaws. He dropped it to the ground, panting. Some palace guards ran up, axes and swords at the ready. Princess, we heard the scream. They looked and saw the snake sprawled on the ground. A deadly mamushi. Were you bitten? No, said the girl, still a little shaky. This kitty saves me. A pair of guards carried the snake away, while some others checked nearby trees for more. He looks like the fighting type, the guard said, scratching Gowan behind his torn ear. Lucky for you, he's a hero, kitty. He is indeed, said the guard, smiling. Such heroism deserves a reward. Maybe a fish from the pond or a golden collar. What do you think, Princess? The little girl furrowed her brow in thought and turned towards Gowen. Kitty, you saved my life. How can I reward you? Gowan's heart leapt. They called her Princess. He had saved the princess. This was his chance. Hoping she would understand, he ran over to the gate and scratched it with his paws. You want to go out? She nodded to the guards, who pulled open a small door set within the larger gate. Gowan darted out and then turned to look at the princess, waiting. You want me to come with you? Gowan ran to her and then back away again, eyeing her expectantly. Guards, we're going on a walk with my cat. The guards smiled and were happy to humor the little princess. They made quite a parade leaving the castle, Gowan in the lead, tail swaying, the imperial Princess just behind, giggling and spinning, and the guards bringing up the rear with their long spears and ceremonial swords. It wasn't long before Gowan spotted Khoma. She was huddled in the shadow of the endless wall, looking longingly at the palace peaks beyond. Koma. He shouted, practically pouncing on her. I found you, Gowan. She replied, purring loudly. You found me. The princess and the guards caught up to the cats. The little girl was red cheeked and laughing. My hero. Is this your kitty friend? Gowan purred in response, nuzzling Koma's little pink nose with his own. It is. Cried the princess. And then she turned to the guards following her. Alright everybody, these are both my kitties. Now they'll be coming back with us. The guards cheered, and the princess scooped up both cats. They hung awkwardly in her little arms, pressed together close, cheek to cheek. But they didn't seem to mind. And as time went on, the princess married a prince who came to love Gowon and Koma just as much as his bride. The imperial couple had many children, and Gowan and Koma had many little kittens of their own. The kids and kittens all played together, and they were fast friends for the rest of their lives, which they lived together happily ever after. The End Today's story Runaway Cats was an adaptation of a Japanese folktale written for you by Daniel Hines and performed for you by me, Amanda Weldon.

[Amanda Weldon]

If you would like to support Stories podcast, you can leave us a five star review on itunes. Check out all of our merch [e-mail] Shop Commission a special video on Cameo, follow us on Instagram oriespodcast or simply tell your friends about us. In case you missed it, Dan and I have a new show on Stories rpg. We play games just like Starsworn with all your Max Goodname friends and Gigacity Guardians featuring the brilliant Firefly. Click the link in the episode description or go to patreon.com storiesrpg to get ad free episodes, play along games and coloring books. We've already got a bunch of episodes over there so check them out now.

[Listener]

Thanks for listening.