Nyan. 🐾
The Punishment-NyanNyan is the manifestation of that desire: a judge who doesn't wear a robe, but a bell collar. It tells us that even when we are facing the consequences of our actions, we desperately hope that the universe still finds us cute enough to forgive.
In anonymous online spaces, actual apologies are rare. A simple "I'm sorry" is often seen as fake. However, performing a (e.g., drawing yourself as a cat in a cage) is a costly signal . The person is willing to look stupid. They are willing to waste time. That proven sacrifice rebuilds trust faster than words.
The mainstream is finally catching on. Recent anime and manga have begun explicitly referencing or parodying the trope.
"Is the unit functional?" the VIP asked.