Arc 14

Ch. 1 Bad Personality

Sebas

Minerva's idea was simple and brilliant all at the same time. It involved numerous things, but they could easily be acquired or thrown together.

Essentially, the event was to mimic the Wall of Grandine. The teams would be made up of various contestants with a variety of skills. The horde of monsters would be broken down into categories based on the best method for killing them. A magically resistant monster, a physically resistant monster, a fast monster, a clever one, a horde, and a boss. One at a time the teams would dispatch each monster in turn until the end. They would be scored on their time, methods, wounds received, and if there were any casualties. The team with the best score won.

Figuring out teams would rely on a similar method as the Grandine hair qualifiers. Nerinin adamantly told us they were called the 'War Beads' after we started calling them weird things like 'Hair qualifiers'. Haha, she's pretty cute when she pouts like that.

Head bands or arm bands with colored shapes would be used to represent the contestant's strength and weaknesses. A professional team of Wolf Warriors from the Wall would give a short lecture about what they meant and their importance. Signs would also be made to explain them and placed around the city at popular locations and the event area.

Then two days before the event, that team of Wolf Warriors would hold a type of exhibition match showing techniques, strategies, and teamwork. They would be timed and that would become the official time to beat for an extra prize. The teams would then be given a whole day to gather information, plan strategies and overall prepare to beat out the Wolves' time. The better prepared teams had a better chance of winning while the less prepared teams might easily die.

I honestly thought it was a stroke of brilliance and most of this came to be after Minerva heard some gossip about a new type of clock that could measure something smaller than seconds. The first stopwatch in a way, but like a magic/technology hybrid. It made me a little curious as to what the different stages of technology are around the world, but that is a concern for another time.

I spend time with Minerva and Nerinin well beyond the hour that is required of me and to be completely honest, it isn't the most unpleasant thing. I'm a little fascinated by how well Minerva is able to communicate as a civilized person.

As it turns out we even had lunch together.

After Lunch, Nerinin decided it was time to go fill her father in on their idea and ask what permissions they needed.

I was about to go with her, just because it might be fun to see Banks again, but I'm stopped by Minerva.

"Actually, Sebas. May I speak with you privately for a moment?" Minerva asked, looking nervous once again. I know we are basically rivals, but now I'm starting to feel bad. When did I become the villain?... Okay, I haven't really been nice. But now she looks like a kid who just watched me kick a puppy.

We return to the dining room and sit down. Minerva begins to fidget.

"Okay you can spit it out, your starting to make me nervous." I prompt.

Minerva won't meet my eyes and stares at the paperwork still spread out on the table. "Please Sebas, I'll do anything, I'll even beg." She looks up at me with budding tears in her eyes. "But please don't tell Nerinin about what I'm really like. I know you hate me and I've given you every reason to. But I really need this thing with the demon beast tournament to work out. If she finds out about everything then..."

... Nerinin will do everything in her power to make Minerva's life difficult and probably foul up the tournament to make Minerva look like the bad guy. That's what she thinks anyway. I honestly don't know what Nerinin might do, but it was certainly within her power to make Minerva's life miserable at this point in time.

"... It's just that this is the first responsibility I've ever been given and there is so much pressure." Minerva won't look at me anymore as the tears start rolling down her cheeks. "I don't know what I'm doing, and no one else will even give me the time of day. But now, with Nerinin's help, I might be able to..." She sniffles. It is obvious the stress is weighing on the young girl and I have to remind myself once again that Minerva is in fact just a young girl. Being royalty came with it's perks, but it also came with its own share of responsibilities and expectations and sometimes they were forced onto children. Like arranged marriages for instance.

I roll my eyes and walk around the table toward her. She flinches several times when I step too loudly and when I make it over to her I cross my arms. "Minerva look up at me."

She turned and wiped her eyes with the palms of her hands before she looked up.

I lean forward and flick her squarely on the forehead. "You really don't know anything about me do you? Do you remember the first thunder storm we spent together?"

"Owie. Yes?" She rubbed her forehead.

"You were afraid I'd go behind your back and make fun of you. However, I am your betrothed, whether we like it or not. I may not like you in anyway, but I am not the kind of man that is going to sabotage you over something so petty as not liking you." I fold my arms. "This is probably the first ounce of responsibility that you've gotten because your behavior is no longer shit. Your personality still won't win any awards, but that's your problem."

"But I only got this far because of you." She protested.

I flicked her on the forehead again and she cried out in pain.

"Don't put this on me, Princess Minerva." I growled. "All I did was call you and the old man out on your shit. If he didn't love you he never would have considered my request of forcing you through more lessons, and if you didn't love him you never would have changed. You've gotten this far on your efforts alone. Nerinin and I are both where we are through our own efforts as well. We are all the same age, but I'm a Magus Initiate and Nerinin is a powerful Warrior who is qualified to fight on the Grandine wall. To do that she got stronger on her own efforts, I may have inspired her with the fire of rivalry, but she is the one her pushed herself. She may look and act like a muscle brain, but in order to get as far as she is she memorized, or is at least familiar with, almost every spell." I saw the shock on Minerva's face when I brought that up. There were a lot of spells, I was familiar with a lot of them, but I've never dedicated myself the way Nerinin has in that respect and obviously Minerva can't even comprehend it.

I look at the paperwork on the table, "You shouldn't completely compare yourselves to us, biologically speaking we are both closer to our preteens developmentally thanks our beast blood. What you should take out of this is that we all have to start somewhere to get to where we are, and nobody else can walk that road for us."

I meet her eyes. "If you are ashamed of your past, then don't repeat it. You speak of favors and begging, but the only thing I really want from you is for you to become a decent person. You can't be a good ruler over a good nation if you're horrid. If you like how well today was, then ask yourself what was different between then and now and fix it. Change your attitude and the way you think, the biggest difference between us is that I've never imagined myself to be perfect or infallible. Who you are and what you do is completely on you."

"So, you're not going to tell Nerinin?" Minerva wiped tears.

"I'll put it this way, I'm not going to hide anything from Nerinin." She deflated when I said that. "But I also want to see if you are capable of making this project succeed." She looked at me with a little bit of shock.

"Oh, don't look so surprised, until this point I thought you were a selfish idiot incapable of achieving anything except lung capacity for screaming and keeping carpenters in business. I've found myself pleasant surprised by this turn of events. I'm eager to see how things unfold."

I ruffle her hair. "Don't let me down. You have a bad personality, and if you don't like it either, then fix that while you're at it."

With that, I leave before I can think of anything else to say or do.

Ch. 2 Dark Lady

After that day, Minerva... well Minerva didn't change overnight. I don't think anyone does, but she was at least less openly hostile whenever Nerinin was around and visibly tried to bite her tongue when she wasn't. The weirdest part for me was how readily they accepted each other as sister-wives even though no one was married yet. I guess polygamy isn't uncommon among the Grandine wolves, it just wasn't as heavily practiced as the Teagon foxes because their male to female birth rates weren't as heavily lopsided.

In Teagon, there definitely were a lot more girls than boys among the foxes, it is at least three to one which is a lot better than when it started. Speaking of Teagon, it wasn't long before the Teagon representative showed up. It wasn't the king, but when they did there was a big commotion. It was partially due to the fact the war had just ended between them and Teagon a few months ago. But mostly due to people who were excited about the upcoming tournament.

It was a pretty exciting day for me too.

I can only imagine how she was able to do it, but it happened in the morning. The royal convoy wasn't expected to arrive until noon. There were even confirmed reports as to how far away they were. However, just as I walked into breakfast I saw her sitting next to Minerva with a pleasant smile. With long black hair and sipping a cup of tea, the mature woman had a smug smile fixed to her face like she knew the answer to a riddle nobody could answer.

"Sebas, who is this woman?" Minerva asked. "She just showed with her servants and sat down."

"Mother?" I say while Nerinin holds my hand. Even I knew that the Teagon representative was going to be under heavy guard and enter the city at noon. Minerva, Nerinin, and I were supposed to be present when they were welcomed.

"Sebas!" Calypso set her tea down. The next instant I was a foot off the ground and engulfed in her arms.

*

Nerinin

So this is Sebas's mother, the infamous Dark Lady Calypso. As she enthusiastically smothers him I can't help but smile. She looks just like Amelia but more queenly... except for the high level of energy. She has milky white skin and raven hair, I could even see the similarities more clearly between Sebas and Calypso than Sebas and Amelia. Sebas always has painfully intense eyes. I can't properly describe them.

It's like looking down a sword, sharp and intelligent, and by the time you realized it was a blade it was too late to realize how dangerously close it was. There were many times that they were soft and kind, but they always had a sharp intelligence hiding a dark painful secret. Calypso had those same eyes, kind, intelligent, but incredibly dangerous. I'd like to say that she seemed motherly, but I also had a terrifying feeling about her. When I looked at Minerva it was obvious that she felt the same discomfort.

This woman, she was dangerous.

The Dark Lady of Teagon had as much blood on her hands as the king, if not more. She had an entire legion of agents under her command. She single-handedly defended her spot at the top of the Beylis Ti'en house and stepped up her game since becoming a queen.

It was rumored that by spending time with all of her close and extended family she used their specialized skills and started her manipulation of the city. Any who stood in the way of the Beylis and their branch families either mysteriously vanished or began cooperating with the Beylis agenda suddenly.

Between the ages of 15 to 20 Calypso and Amelia were the known as the Dark lady and the Red Lady. Although Amelia was never rumored to have been more than a partner or underling she was no less frightful. When she was married and left the intrigue of the court and the Dark Lady's influence spread, snuffing out competition in the shadows. Only three crime families at the fringes at the city, and a handful of independently operating clandestine organizations remained outside of her direct control or influence. No one knew who they were, only that she let them be because competition bred better results than dominance.

The Dark Lady even had influence in Grandine and was close personal friends with members in the Magus Archana like the Bluecoasts and my Master. He's the one that warned me about her when he learned Sebas was her son. She was kind to her allies and ruthless to her enemies. Anything she touched turned to gold or ash, that was why she was called the Dark Lady, when she darkened your doorstep: you listened.

Truth be told, she was the merciful one out of the two sisters. Amelia was called the Red Lady because she left blood in her wake instead of ash. I saw the Red Lady the day I met Sebas. I was almost crushed by her. If Sebas hadn't stood up to her I would have been a bloody crying mess after our rematch spar. But that's who Sebas was, and why I loved him. Sebas wasn't afraid of anyone or anything; king, beast, or man.

I have been anxious about meeting the Dark Lady- I mean Sebas's real mother- since I found out about her from my master. But this woman hugging him seemed like a proper mother now that I've adjusted to her presence. She doted on him affectionately, asked him about his life, and giggled at his jokes. We sat down and had a normal meal like she was any other mother. After we finished eating she suddenly excused herself and walked out the door as swiftly and as casually as she appeared.

"Sebas, your mother is so nice." I say as I take a breath of fresh air once she leaves. She is nice, but in the back of my mind I still remember the warnings that my master gave me and every other nerve in my body was warning me about her. I wonder if either Van or Sebas truly appreciate the Ladies' dark pasts.

"She is now, but we didn't really start off on the right foot when we met." Sebas says and I feel a chill down my spine.

"What do you mean?" I ask.

"We got into a fight because I gave Nelfa's charm to Sicilia. Something about how I could make an empire and threw all of her work away. We shouted... some other stuff happened, it was a mess. We ended up making up, but it was really awkward for a while. I learned later that she was worried about me the whole time. But she was really proud of me after I met with the Assassin guild leader trying to kill me and called a cease fire." Sebas answered like he didn't just confess another impossible fact.

Both Minerva and I dropped our jaws to the ground.

"You met the Assassin's leader?" I asked.

"The one that was trying to kill you?" Minerva asked.

"Even for you that was stupid!" I stated.

"It all worked out in the end, right?" Sebas shrugged.

That's not the Point! At some point someone has got to stop him from doing reckless things like that. Even I won't jump head long into some fights. But Sebas, he is a different breed. It's like... he has not regard for his safety or value for his life.

*

I was incredibly surprised by how surprised I was later when Calypso entered the city with her convoy as if she hadn't been here the entire time. I don't care what Sebas says, his mother is scary. Awesome... but scary.

Ch. 3 Cheshire's Priorities

Cheshire

Nothing escapes my watch as I protect my master. The fox kit Sebas. There is more to him than meets the eye and in that way, we are perfectly matched. He does not sense it the way I do, but the life force he gave me thrums within my chest. No matter where he is or how he is feeling, I know it.

He was behind me in developing gravity magic and he isn't as adept as I am, but he has many other talents and strengths. I receive no end of entertainment while watching over him.

My mother, Queen Ralla, instilled honor into my very bones and I would never betray master, not for all the salmon in the world. He is more to me than just a master, he is my brother. I treasure this bond above all else. It is true that he calls me useless. It is also true that I do not communicate with him in his desired way. But I think we are fine the way we are. I know that he relies on me, and I believe that understanding one's heart without the use of words is more important than needlessly conveying every feeling with flowery sentiment.

He spends a lot of time with his mates these days and it pleases me to see him smile so often. I could not imagine a more fulfilling lifestyle.

During the night I patrol his room and the halls to make sure that no more assassins are able to disturb him, but I'm currently blessed with long nights of boredom and chasing stray mice. During the day I nap intermittently when I know that he won't be going anywhere, he does like to read often enough. He readily shares his food with me and I often hunt for birds and other rodents whenever I'm hungry.

He, his mate Nerinin, the boy pup Revein, and the human warrior Cedric are currently engaging in conversation. They will be like this for a while, master has a way of drawing out every bit of information he can. I have also identified several hidden fox warriors with master's mother's scent on them. He is as safe as he will ever be, so I stretch as hunger begins to set in.

I can use gravity magic, but I much prefer to hunt and stalk by my own power. Casually bounding away from my master, I once again explore the city via the roof tops. The air in my fur is refreshing and I push my small body as fast as it will go. I can easily change my size to fit my needs, but I won't say that I don't miss being my full size. I have fully matured and have grown to a formidable size. I may even be larger than the old king of the forest, my bastard father Rollo.

When I think about my past I grow homesick for my mother and sisters. They are loud and obnoxious, but every one of them is a capable huntress and my mother the mightiest and wisest of us all. I may possess magic and have reached my maturity, but mother has proven time and time again that she is unmatched. A true warrior queen in every way.

Speaking of warrior queens...

A strange scent stops me in my tracks. It is a lovely scent, but it isn't food. What is this? And why am I drawn to it?

Curious...

I must investigate.

*

The scent brings me to a section of the city that is patrolled by many strong warriors of the wolf race.

I have a lot of respect for them and their power. Mother taught me that when hunting new prey, I must be able to determine their strength with a glance. She also taught me how to hide my own for the sake of silent stalking.

When I sniff the air, I know that I'm getting closer to the intoxicating smell and I feel a strange. The mystery spurs me on. Is it sweet or heady? I can't put my finger on it but the closer I get the more motivated I become.

There are many cages full of other demon beasts. A part of me wonders if I should feel a sense of kinship for these creatures. However, mother emphasized the fundamental difference between familiars and common Demon Beasts. A fundamental magic ceremony rapidly accelerates self-awareness and magic potential. Naming. A bond must first be formed between a tamer and Demon Beast. Should the tamer grant a name to the demon beast and the beast accept it, the ceremony is complete. The more power the tamer the more powerful the effects of the naming.

When mother received her name from Master Sebas, she said it was like the light of knowledge flooded her mind. She recognized Sebas as a truly powerful ally, despite his size, and when he saved us her loyalty, and ours, was guaranteed. Between the time that she awoke to herself and when she swore loyalty to Sebas her mind rapidly developed and many gaps in her knowledge were magically filled. When she swore loyalty to Master she was already an evolved existence. A Familiar.

Mother's wisdom exceeded even her own sensibilities. Therefore, she raised us with the utmost diligence and pride. We are never to look down on Demon Beasts as inferior, regardless of power and intelligence even the most experienced hunter can be bested when they underestimate an opponent. Father Rollo was our example of this, a corrupted familiar who perished when he underestimated master. Our pride is not in our superiority over Demon Beasts but in our ability to serve our master. His success is our success. His power is our power. His nobility is our nobility. And our honor is in being useful to our master.

In short, comparing ourselves to demon beasts is a fundamental waste of time. Not because of superiority or inferiority, but because of priority.

Being a Familiar is just... different from being a demon beast. That said, I know I am one stride away from either of those. Master saved my life by instilling power into me.

This power has not only connected me to master in ways that stump my mother but also grant me the ability to utilize magic which is unprecedented among dire panthers. When master told me to find a way to turn invisible I somehow found a way. When I needed to be smaller to spend more time inside or around buildings, I found house cats in the nearby village and became able to imitate their size. I witnessed his air magic and I found myself able to use it. I inherently knew master's needs, powers, and mind.

Truthfully, I wasn't quite a Demon Beast, Familiar, or Dire Panther. I am a Cheshire. I don't quite know what that means. If it weren't for my mother I'd be lost because of this. But when my master was suffering after an argument with his mate I learned that those petty things were not important. Our relationship transcends master and familiar. To me he is one-part the god who gave me life and one-part family that gives me purpose. I believe the humans believe in an existence called a Demi-god. A mix between mundane and divine. Usually, Demi-gods where the children of a god and a human, but in some cases they were humans gifted divine power.

I reject Rollo, I do not accept him as anything other than a cautionary tale. However, through Master Sebas I was granted some power from beyond a simple Naming Ceremony. Calling Sebas my father is wrong, calling him my master is insufficient, calling him my god is inaccurate, calling him my benefactor is too simple, calling him family... feels right, and calling him my brother... elder brother... calms my pondering heart.

Mother is the Queen of the Forest. The strongest resident of the forest. At one point I confronted her about my inheritance. I am no true resident of the forest. I sleep and live by my master's side. Although my power will someday surpass my mother's I cannot become King of the forest if I'm not a resident of the forest. After a long discussion I told her that Sebas had once called me the 'Handsome Cheshire King' in passing.

Mother was silent for a long time. She confessed that I was not longer a true dire panther, but that wasn't a bad thing. Master had given me a unique gift and I should never look down on myself for being different. Handsome was a fitting description so that I will never forget my appearance is a gift from my master. Cheshire was both my name and my new race. Should I have children they will most likely inherit my long-striped fur and magic. They will not be dire panthers, they will be the offspring of Cheshire. I will have a new inheritance to give as the strongest who stands by master's side, therefore I am the first Cheshire King.

The Handsome Cheshire King.

This is everything I am and everything I have, and Sebas gave me all of them.

Ch. 4 Cheshire Traditions

Cheshire

These are the kinds of things on my mind as I prowl the cages of demon beasts and monsters. Some of them might even be more powerful than me. It's curious. I'm distracted by a few of them. One is a giant boar with black and red fur and metallic tusks. He might be tasty but without my sisters most of the meat would go to waste. I imagine what it might be like to fight a couple of them, but my true strength is in espionage at the moment. I'm good enough that almost none of them notice I'm even there.

I find a section with many dire cat variants. They are meowing toward the direction I'm heading in. I've noticed that the sections of cages are organized by both types and strengths. I've completely avoided the undead section. They reek.

Dire panthers, Flame lions, and Gold winged jaguars are the most common but the most powerful is at the very furthest point in a heavily strengthened and magically reinforced cage that is bolted to ground.

That was when I saw her. The most beautiful and fearsome female I've ever laid my eyes on. I marveled not only at the incredible power that radiated off her, but her regal majesty. She obviously reigned over the feline section with the pride and confidence of a queen. The Queen in Chains. She was the loveliest creature I'd ever laid my eyes on. Master didn't know that I could read, but it wasn't important until now as I read the plaque on her cage. She was a rank A Phantom Hellcat.

I don't know how long I stared in silence as she sat on her haunches like the imperial being she was. Her fur was as black as night, it wasn't as long as mine, but she did have fiery crimson stripes of longer fur down her spine to the end of her tail. Looking at her was like looking at a miracle. The shadows of her fur were hazy like the edges of a fire and her red stripes glowed with magic potential. Her eyes were what set her apart and even though I was fully aware that I was intoxicated by the scent that said she was ready to mate, it was her eyes that sealed my fate.

The piercing violet of her gaze was full of intelligence and melancholy. Although she was a demon beast female no older than myself, she seemed to know that her life was at an end and had calmly accepted her fate.

"You're staring." A youthfully feminine voice rang in my mind.

The eyes that were gazing into the distance fixed themselves on me. She... was speaking to me. I see. High ranked demon beasts were dangerous because they were smarter than the rest. The Naming Ceremony of the Familiars was a mystical thing didn't give Demon Beasts anything they couldn't attain on their own. Not really.

"I was captivated. Queen in Chains." I answer.

"It is my first season as a female. But unlike the rest, you do not mewl like a degenerate. If you have come to mate, then you may as well leave. I have no interest in fighting and dying with a full womb." She stated with the calm reserved for those who are counting the hours until their death.

"Am I?" I ask as I tilt my head. I'm not sure. It was her fertile scent that brought me here but now that I'm here I see no reason to leave if I may gaze upon her. I wonder... if I fought her would I be able to utilize my full strength. No, I'm certain that I would have to. I wonder if I could win.

I think master Sebas is rubbing off on me. I'm just glad that she didn't swat me the moment she laid eyes on me like Sebas's mates. He was stronger than them and they became his mates. If I prove I'm stronger than her will she become my mate? Hm? Is that why I'm here?

I look behind me at the loud group of males in cages. When I imagine her with one of them it angers me. I would surely crush them before they got close to her.

"Bloodlust? Cute." She lowered her body to a comfortable position making her eye level closer to mine. "Are you my executioner?" Her tail flicked to show her amusement.

"No. Not yours." I state. I would never end the life of such a lovely creature. The males' noises now annoyed me. I turned away from the Hellcat and faced the males. "Hush." I say as I inflict solid wave of gravity magic on the loudest ones. It's a very clear threat that I will kill them if they do not shut up. All but the closest dozen instantly collapsed.

Most of the cats that didn't fall immediately begin growling at the air. The closest three cats growl directly at me. Two were Sky lions, they were a deep blue with feathered wings standing as tall as Hellcat, but the most powerful one closest to me is a Silver Tiger. A divine type Demon beast and the foil to the Phantom Hellcat. They growled but they were not completely uncivil. Mother warned me about them for being prideful.

"I am the King in Chains, I order you to set us free." The Divine tiger demanded that I open his cage and release them. He was an A rank Demon beast along with the Sky Lions.

"No." I answer lazily.

"You Dare refuse the order of a king! I'll pick my teeth with your bones for your insolence!" The Divine Tiger roared. The sky lions sat back and watched the show along with my Hellcat.

"Kings do not command other kings." I saunter over and sit as relaxed as I can posture in front of his cage as I lick my paw.

The Divine Tiger wrestled against his restraints.

I waited for the inevitable.

"What's going on?" Said one of the armored Wolf Warriors I passed on the way here.

"It's the Divine Tiger he's going berserk!" Answered another of the warriors.

"Get reinforcements!" Called a third.

I lick my paw. "I suggest you calm down if you don't want to die as a chained mutt instead of a warrior king."

"You dare! You are a king of strays and housepets. I could crush your house with a flick of my tail, welp! You cannot compare to the common Demon Beasts!" the Tiger roared.

"Hm? I suppose." I stand up and stretch. "Comparing is a waste of time. If we fought I would be entertained, but you will die shortly. My condolences." I walked away from the Tiger and rested in the sun in front of Hellcat's cage.

"Curious. You are so small. Where does your confidence come from? King of strays." Hellcat asked.

"Cheshire. I'm the Handsome Cheshire King. I choose this size to best serve my master." I introduce myself.

Hellcat's tail flicked. "You are a familiar. Do you serve one of the warriors?" She looked at warriors who came in response to the Tiger's tantrum.

"No. I am Cheshire. I do not serve the warriors." I answer unsure of how to explain Sebas in a way that translates.

"Cheshire. The handsome king." Hellcat said amused. "I have come across many cats, most kinds you can see here. But I have never before met your kind."

"I am the first Cheshire, all that come after me will be called after me. I am no forest king. I am king of the Cheshire."

"You are a king with no inheritance?" Hellcat asked. "Even now I am queen over these in bondage. To be king of only yourself is blasphemy."

"I was born as a Dire Panther from my mother who is the Wise Queen of the forest. I was weak born but my master gifted me this form and power. It is Handsome. Not truly demon beast nor familiar, I am my own already. My blood is my inheritance. The blood of the Cheshire. When my blood child surpasses me then they will be the king of the Cheshire." I try to explain.

"The blood of the Cheshire. That is not a tradition of the Demon beasts." Hellcat narrowed her eyes at me. The more intelligent Demon Beasts were prideful, and they did not like things outside of tradition. Familiars were more willing to bend those rules, but they still had too much pride to adopt anything that was too unconventional.

"Do you know Foxgate?" I asked.

"It is a powerful technique of the foxes, I've only heard of such rare power." Hellcat swishes her tail.

"Master blessed me with part of his Foxgate and Named me a Cheshire, so I became Cheshire, neither demon beast, familiar, nor fox. I must begin a new tradition. The Cheshire's blood will be loyal to master's blood. A bond that is not servile but familial. Master Sebas is my brother, yet still my master." I looked at warriors who were gathering around the tiger. "New traditions are... difficult."

Ch. 5 King Dethroned

Cheshire

"I understand now." Hellcat flicked her tail twice. She looked at the Tiger. "Handsome King, will you not help him? He is loud and foolish but a death in chains is too sad for a king."

"Hm. If it is his fate to die a sad death then I should not interrupt." I answer. I may have provoked him a little, but the sky lions were in a similar situation and had not gotten themselves into that mess.

"You are the Cheshire of new Traditions. Would it not be more interesting for you to be a king of kings?" Hellcat said in a mischievous way. She was implying that if I were to save him he would owe me a life debt.

My family owes Sebas a life debt, that means after we are saved from a situation we couldn't have escaped on our own, we owe every moment afterward to that person. Mother chose the path of the Familiar, for her and her family, to pay this debt. I cannot force Tiger into the path of the Familiar for me or Sebas. But I could set a new tradition. His life debt could turn into a new path for the Cheshire.

"You are clever like my master. I don't hate that." I observed as I stood up.

I walk over to Tiger's cage. There are several Wolf mages surrounding the cage chanting spells. The metal bands around Tiger's neck and paws were causing him immense pain. He thrashed against the pain which only made them continue.

"King in Chains. I, the Handsome Cheshire King will save you in exchange for a life-debt. But only if you ask." I say.

Tiger struggled against the bonds and his pride. It became very clear that his captures were intent on killing him. "Very well, I agree! Handsome Cheshire King... my life is yours."

It wasn't hard. A little wind magic blew a bug into the mouth of one of the mages causing him to choke. I used gravity magic on the stomach of another one, I made it go up and down. He threw up. then all hell broke loose with a few quick spells like that. When the mages saw that the Tiger had calmed down after they pulled themselves together they ceased their execution. They were so embarrassed by my commotion that they swiftly assigned a single guard and departed, they agreed not to speak about it so they wouldn't look foolish. They had their own pride, and the Tiger was valuable merchandise after all.

One thing that I've been able to grasp that other demon beasts may not understand is how people think. Demon beasts have little concept of property or possessions, for them it is either precious and worthy of protection or not. Kings and Queens are titles that refer only to strength and dominance. Being king of the forest, mountain, or plains merely meant that they were the highest in the food chain that they knew of in that area or territory. Money was not an idea that held any importance to beasts since trade and bartering were concepts for the weak who were not strong enough to take what they needed.

I told Tiger to sit down and shut up. After the warriors simply left, the four A ranked beasts were surprised when Tiger was still alive. Hellcat was especially impressed and was unable to hide her satisfied tail whip.

"You... stopped them?" Tiger aske when he realized his life was no longer in danger.

"I said I would." I answered. Being around Sebas as long as I have I have learned the value in subterfuge and using minimum effort. I do lose my cool sometimes when he is in danger, but he knows how to wield knowledge like the deadliest poisoned fang. If I had killed the warriors, then they would have gotten more, and I would have been cornered. To follow that path was the simplest choice for the beasts who live and die by strength.

But I am a Cheshire and a Familiar. I serve my master. Doing things without getting noticed is what is required of me and I'm only to make a show when it's called for. Breaking the concentration of a few mages is a cub's game.

"But how?" One of the sky lions asked.

"Is this a trick?" The other lion asked.

"Is it a trick?" I think about it. And I come to a realization. "Yes, I believe it is. I'm very good at tricks. Tricking is what we do best." I use this moment to flash my curling toothy grin and the three males jump backwards. It was Sebas's idea to learn how to smile and I learned how to do it just to screw with him. Making him frustrated is one of the joys of my life. But after seeing these kings jump at the sight of it... maybe it can become something more.

"Handsome King, you are a scary male. But I don't hate that." Hellcat mused playfully.

"I agree, you are worthy of calling yourself king. I acknowledge you Cheshire King." One of the Sky lions bowed by tilting his head.

"Cheshire King. I acknowledge you." The second Sky lion bowed.

Tiger growled angrily. "Cheshire King... Accept my life-debt." He bowed begrudgingly.

"Handsome King of tricks. You have peaked my curiosity. I do not have long in this world if I stay as I am. I wish to hear more about this Master Sebas you speak so highly of." Hellcat made herself comfortable.

"Queen in Chains, you would seek out a master among the people! Have you no pride left?" Tiger demanded.

"Hush, Tiger. Do not speak of my beloved's master in such a way." Hellcat growled. "What use is a crown in captivity? I would easily trade it for a worthy master and powerful litter." When she called Tiger by this designation instead of King in Chains it meant that she no longer recognized him as her peer. If the Queen would not recognize a king, it meant she considered someone else more powerful. In order to gain his kingship back he would need to challenge the new king and prove his dominance. However, since Tiger owes me a life-debt he is forever unable to issue that challenge to me at the risk of his honor.

In technicality is life is mine, and may be seen as an extension of myself, if he killed me in a duel then I would have simply killed myself and proven I was stronger anyway. It's this round-about logic that also maintains the status-quo. The only way he might be able to regain his crown is if someone else killed me, canceling out the life-debt, and should he slay or subdue them then he would have formally beaten the thing that beat his master. He would regain his crown and maintain his honor. This is just their logic. Subterfuge is all but alien to those kings and queen who value power over all things.

"Dethroned by the Queen." A sky lion remarked as an amused outsider.

"Ouch." The other sky lion chuckled.

"Beloved?" I asked. When did that happen. We just met.

Hellcat smiled at my denseness. "I await my death during my mating period. I see no reason to hide any of my feelings of love or lust when I shall meet my end shortly."

I blinked a couple of times as my heart fluttered. I felt an unbelievable joy welling within me.

"Don't get me wrong, I'd only serve your master if he was worthy. Either way, I do not foresee even the most powerful master overcoming the warriors that captured us. Tricking a few is one thing, but changing fate is another." Hellcat stated.

Tiger growled and relaxed. "You make a fair point, Queen in Chains. The warriors are too many. I suppose that all we can do is wait for the time they choose to claim us for our meat."

"I too wish to hear about this master Sebas. I am not so prideful as to think I know all." A Sky Lion announced.

"The Cheshire King is small but wise. Your master must be interesting. Maybe he is equally small and wise." The Second Sky Lion chuckled.

They are fixated on my master because Beasts always focus on the top of the food chain. If I serve someone it means I recognize him as stronger than me. I am already stronger than Tiger- who was peers with Hellcat and superior to the sky lions- as proven by saving his, a king's, life. This cannot be ignored, and if a queen recognizes me that also cannot be ignored.

"I understand. I shall tell the story of my master, but it will require time. I shall go ask my master for that time. His life is in constant danger. In the beast tradition, many Kings, Queens, and lesser prey seek to take his life. It will not do for him to be unprepared." I say.

"To be hunted so much, is he hated or weak?" The second sky lion asked.

"He is neither and both. Master is master. Once you hear his story you will know that he is more than just a king among the people." I say as I stand up.

"What is greater than a king?" The first sky lion probed.

I paused for a second and answered with my own question, "are gods not greater than kings?" I do not think the beast tongue has a word to accurately describe Sebas. I do not think the human tongue has a word for it either. So I'll leave it at that for now. I begin to walk away but I am stopped when Hellcat addresses me.

"Handsome king. I do not want a misunderstanding. I am interested in you as a male and king. But I do not give birth to slaves." Hellcat warned.

I smile at her. "The Cheshire are not slaves, we are a noble family loyal to their head. Our honor is in service not servitude."

"A new tradition?" She asked playfully swishing her tail.

"I wonder if it is new? Maybe it's just the way it's always been?" I say in a ponderful way.

Speaking has its benefits. I see them now. I spoke with mother all the time and when speaking with these beasts that I consider my peers I have benefited much. Maybe I shall try to speak to Sebas more? On the other hand, teasing him is just so much fun.

I casually do a backflip onto one of the cages. A feat no ordinary housecat is capable of. I know that I am showing off a little. I wonder why I am so compelled to do so in front of Hellcat.

I do wish for her to be impressed with me. Interesting...

And if it's master I wonder if there will be new Cheshire sooner rather than later. With a last fleeting glance at Hellcat my heart is stirred by more than just scent, and I hope that may be the case.

Ch. 6 The Rankings

Sebas

I'm exploring parts of the city with Nerinin, Revein, Cedric, and a few soldiers in casual clothes to avoid being too imposing. The weapon shops and blacksmiths are the most exciting for us today. I learn that although Nerinin has only truly mastered three kinds of weapons she is proficient with many I've never even heard of before. They have versions of bladed gauntlets that had 'steampunk wet dream' written all over them. They were made to be primary or secondary weapons with retractable parts. They were also designed for the Wolves that were masters at beast strengthening where their size would change.

There were even some that looked like a cross between a magical item and something batman would use. Like a portable magic propelled Hook and line device for pulling off spiderman maneuvers or tying up larger enemies. There was even one that was a long fishing pole/whip/grappling hook device. Swords and spears were basic but the variety of weapons that were invented for fighting demon beasts astounds me.

This world was so full of things! The technology and culture of this world was all over the place. I've heard that on the continent southwest of us there is a religious human kingdom that wield Katana. I'm not talking about just a few people I'm talking every citizen religiously trains to fight with a high powered magical katana. The rare metals they are known for have a powerful Holy affinity and the rumors of their weaponsmiths and warriors are infamous. In contrast, the Continent to the northwest of us are more fanatical but their technology has been pushed much further than ours here.

As I was enjoying my day the strangest thing happened.

"Sebas." Came the voice in my head.

When Nerinin is talking to a famous blacksmith about her lance and what can be done for it Cheshire grabs my attention from just outside.

"Chess?" I respond telepathically. "Is something wrong?" My paranoia shoots through the room and I become suspicious of everything.

"No. I have a request." He said.

A request? Cheshire almost never requested anything. He was acting strange. I don't mean to say that he isn't allowed to want anything, but he is kneading the ground with his paws while his tail flicked back and forth. He seemed anxious.

"Okay." I press him.

"I would like the afternoon to be away." He asked.

This was an odd request. He normally stuck to me like glue. I have invisible cat hair all over my shirts to prove it. I don't think I did anything to displease him.

"May I ask why?" I press again.

Cheshire paused for a long moment. "If I say it is to do something for myself, would that be sufficient?" He asked dodging the question.

I'm not sure what in the world he could be up to, but he seems really eager to get this over with to go do the thing. I decide that Cheshire doesn't do many things for himself save when he disappears from time to time to hunt.

"You have my leave. I'm am plenty protected at the moment." I tilt my head at Nerinin. "Just don't do anything dangerous, my friend."

"Thank you. I will return as soon as I am able." Cheshire vanished using his blink skill.

He was in a hurry, I wonder what he is up to.

That reminds me.

"Hey Nerinin." I say as I realize Nerinin is done chatting with the blacksmith and is more interested in my far off look. "Cheshire was born a dire panther. Does that mean he is still a rank D Demon beast?"

"No, when a demon beast becomes a familiar their ranking can go up several ranks depending on their bond with their master and their master's potential. That said, I don't know if I would call him a dire panther anymore. He's a variant at least, if he were prolific enough he may even be the father of a new species depending on who the mother or mothers are." Nerinin said.

We leave the store and begin to walk and talk.

"Wait, what? Is he really that strong?" Revein asked.

"I'm not sure if I'm honest." Nerinin shrugged. "I only know the basics. Rollo was a Rank C bordering on B. When he died he ranked at D because he was feral. Dangerous but the scale reflects a Beast's intelligence and magic potential alongside their raw power."

"The rankings, could you go over them for me. I studied magic, not Demon Beasts, and with all the talk about the upcoming tournaments I'm curious." I say.

"I'm surprised you don't know with all the preparation you've done for being an adventurer." Nerinin said.

I shrugged, "I skimmed over most of that since I was struggling with learning the dragon's language at the time."

"Of course, you can speak dragon. Why am I even surprised anymore?" Revein rolled his eyes.

"Anyway. Demon Beasts have a wider ranking range than Adventurers since there is so much more variety. It goes from 'I' to 'A' with 'I' being the lowest. Then on top of that are the 'S', 'SS', and 'SSS' ranked beings where 'SSS' is basically a god." Nerinin explained.

"That's very concerning..." I say as I think about it. "... does that mean there is no way to know how strong he is unless we go to a professional? "

"We can always use process of elimination." Nerinin said as she began to explain the rankings.

Here is what I learned. Rank 'I' is a token rank for no threat. This basically covers normal animals, mostly herbivores, that have no extraordinary abilities to increase their lethality.

Rank 'H' beasts include natural predators like wolves or mountain lions. There are also include the minimum level of extraordinary ability to be dangerous to normal people.

Rank 'G', 'F', and 'E' are lesser monsters or army fodder. Goblins, Skeletons, Orcs, Giant Spiders, and other things like that. Chiefs, shaman, and champions, and their counterparts among the other races were higher ranks than their fodder buddies.

Rank 'D' was known as the Dire rank. It was when beasts grew to giant sizes. Dire Panthers, Dire Wolves, and Dire Apes all start here. Mostly the juveniles to adults, but when they gained experience, intelligence, magic, or wisdom they rose in rank.

Rank 'C' is the considered the Caster rank. This rank was full of many mediocre magic wielders. This was because magic among the beasts was unpredictable. Most animals had minimum spells because of their poor affinity for it. On the other hand, beings like goblin shaman, skeleton mages, orc warlocks have a high affinity for magic and are very dangerous.

Rank 'B' are the 'Boss' Rank. The ones in this class are essentially made to fight. With well-rounded abilities, specialized skills, or somewhere in between. These were intelligent beings that weren't easily manipulated or defeated. They also either lead armies, were worth one, or both.

Rank 'A' were aptly Called the 'Alpha' Rank. There were at the pinnacle of their development and potential. They were beings of high intelligence and high pride. They were so powerful that even their own kind would fear them or willingly devote themselves to them. They commanded respect and they earned it.

The 'S' Ranks were the 'Spirit' Ranks. Although this usually includes beasts that are blessed by the spirits to become more powerful it was also commonly accepted that any that could easily defeat an 'A' rank were in this class. A 'SS' was basically a monster just short of becoming a god or born of one.

"So Chess is somewhere between 'C' and 'A'." I think after absorbing the information.

"Actually, from what I've gathered he's easily an 'A' Rank." Nerinin said when we were safely back at the mansion I was staying in. We sat in a sunroom on some of the couches while Lilith brought us something cold to drink.

"How do you figure?" I ask.

"I've been writing back and forth with Julie. She's begun to learn the Familiar language with Ralla and Faunanelfa. From what I can put together Ralla's experience and wisdom put her awkwardly between 'B' and 'A' because she doesn't have any magic. Her daughters qualify as 'B' rank despite their inexperience because of their ability to work as a unit and their ability to think on their feet. If Cheshire has half the competency of his family, then he's an easy 'B'. Throw in magic, and your potential as a Master with four tails, then even if he can only make himself invisible he's an 'A'." Nerinin explained.

"Okay, but that's only if he were able to be invisible. What if he also knew how to alter his size, cast Blink at will, use wind and gravity magic, and had the potential to learn any spell I know?" I asked.

Both Nerinin and Revein's eyes grew big.

"He can learn your magic?" Nerinin asked cautiously.

"It's more like he can teach himself magic, he only learned half those spells because I mentioned them." I said.

"He can teach himself magic!" All of the blood left Revein's face.

"Is it that big of a deal?" I ask.

"Sebas." Nerinin looked at me with a mix of emotions. "That would make him 'S' Rank... if not higher."

Oh... that is kind of a big deal.

Ch.7 Cheshire's Secret

Sebas

That night I prepared for bed by reading a book with my head in Nerinin's lap.

After she sent Revein home, Nerinin insisted on giving me a lap pillow like they used to. It wasn't as plushy as Lilith's womanly thighs, but it was more comfortable since I didn't have to worry about defending my virtue... at least as much.

However, I couldn't relax with the way Cheshire was pacing by the window.

I wanted to go over Circulated Strengthening with him. But there was something weighing on his mind. Cheshire was the most laid-back cat I'd ever met. He never strained to do anything outside of battle. I've never seen him anxious before.

"All right that's it!" I sat up scaring everyone in the room. "Cheshire, front and center!"

Chess's tail frayed from start to end. He cowered a little and hopped over to the table by the couch they were sitting on. I held Chess's gaze as I closed my book and made of show of just dropping it on the ground. "You are acting funny. What's up?"

Chess licked his paw and wiped his ears as if he didn't hear me.

Nerinin looked around for him but I was the only one that could see him. I also know for a fact Chess is trying to avoid the question.

"Don't play this game again with me, Chess. You and I practically brothers and the whole 'I don't speak your language' game is not going to fly anymore." I say pointing at him. I see him flinch a little and then he bowed his head.

"I... Master forgive me. I have been keeping secrets." Chess looked really guilty.

"What kind of secrets?" I ask raising an eyebrow.

"I may have found a mate, and some friends. They would like to meet you, but it is complicated. They may hope for things you may not be able to grant." He admitted.

"You found a mate?" I ask as the implications fried my brain a little. Part of what fried my brain was that he had just strung so many words in a row.

"He what?" Nerinin exclaimed. "Where?"

Chess hung his head.

"What are you getting down about? Don't apologize for falling in love, Stupid." I flicked his nose.

Chess flinched as he shook his head.

"Why don't you start from the beginning." I smiled at him. "We are family after all. Besides, I've always wondered what kind of female you liked."

*

I don't know why I was surprised when I stood inside the demon beast area. I came with Minerva who wanted to see the beasts she would be working with, Nerinin, Revein, Calypso who was intrigued, and King Banks who was both excited to see me and concerned about my request. We were followed by his personal elite guard, Minerva's guards, Calypso's guards and my guards. We were an impressive sight when our army approached and filed through the cages of demon beasts.

I looked at the four Rank 'A' giant cats bowing to me.

There were two blue lions with wings, a silver tiger, and a black one with a glowing red stripe of fur.

"I have never seen four Rank 'A's act like that." King Banks said.

"Greetings master Sebas of my beloved, the Handsome King. I am the Queen in Chains." The black one said as she rose her head. "I am honored that you traveled here to meet with us."

"Queen in Chains, I am called Sebas Asmos Ti'en. I am a prince after the manner of the people." I say a bow slightly with my hand over my heart. "I am the Master of Ralla the Queen of the forest and her four cubs that I have named: Abby, Bella, The Handsome Cheshire King, and Daisy." I raise my hand to my mother. "This is my birth mother Calypso Asmos Ti'en, Queen of the foxes." I raise my hand to King Banks. "This is the Father of my mate, Banks, King of the Wolves." I motion toward Minerva and Nerinin. "These are two of my mates, Minerva, first daughter of Vincent, the King of Men, and Nerinin, first daughter of Banks, King of the wolves."

Thank you Ralla for teaching me how to talk to other demon beasts. The terminology isn't too hard, but the structure is different.

"It is true, you are a complicated master. The Handsome King has told us of your merits. As the Queen in Chains I have been chosen to speak on the behave of these three." She turned her head toward the three bowing cats. "Will you speak with me?"

"Yes." I said.

"We four are not mindless hunters. We are strong and yet we were still overpowered by the warriors. What is to be our fate?" The hellcat asked.

"What is going on?" Minerva asked.

"The Hellcat wants to know what will happen to them." I answered.

"I wish to know the truth and I believe you will not deceive us. My beloved has vouched for your honor." The Hellcat said.

"It is not a simple answer. Will you allow me to speak freely?" I asked.

"If you will grant us the truth, we will take it in whatever form it may come in." She responded.

"My pack and the human pack warred on one another. Neither was able to prevail over the other. In order to ensure a peace after the manner of people I, the first son of the king of the foxes, and Minerva, the first daughter of the king of the humans, were to become mates. To help the fox pack and the human pack become one, we seek to have an event where we play fight one another to see who are the strongest warriors. The wolf pack is aiding us. They are warrior who protect all the packs from the demon beasts beyond the cliffs. They have brought you and the others in chains to teach the human and fox packs how to fight those from beyond the cliffs in case the wolf pack falls." I explain as best as I can.

"It is true then, we are to be killed." Hellcat said as if this was the only logical answer.

"Yes." I answer sadly.

"Do not be saddened, Master Sebas. It is only natural for the strong to eat the weak. I was merely curious about why we had not been eaten yet." Hellcat said. She sounded a lot like Ralla only younger.

"Is that all you wished to know?" I ask.

"I have a wish that only you may grant." She said.

"If it is in my power I shall grant it." I answered.

"It is a simple wish. I know that you may not have the power to save us from our fate. We have already accepted it. I am in my first mating season, I have chosen to not die with a full womb or give birth to slaves. I have still chosen the Handsome King as my beloved. He is kind and strong. I choose to spend my final days by his side. I have judged you a worthy master, I would like a name after the manner of people and to die as your familiar. But ultimately, I merely wish to hear my beloved say my name once. With that I would be satisfied." She said. "These three recognize you as a worthy master and also desire names from you. This is our wish." She bowed her head again.

I blinked a couple of times. "You all want to become my Familiars?"

""""WHAT?"""" was the response of everyone behind me.

"Only I, desire to serve as your familiar. These three would only swear loyalty after the handsome King has proven his power over them. Only then would they choose to obey you." She answered.

"Sebas, what are you saying?" King Banks asked. "How is this possible?"

"Hold that thought, King Banks." I said. then I spoke over telepathy instead of aloud to the Hellcat and the others. "I am willing to give you names, I would speak to the males before I name them, but I have a question. I am not sure if it is possible, but if I were to free you all from your fate, would you all swear a life-debt to me and serve me loyally as my familiars?"

Hellcat's eyes widened in surprise and the three cats looked up at me from their bowed as if unsure how to proceed. Hellcat turned to them and both the blue lions nodded at her.

"I will and so will the Lions. Tiger has already sworn a life-debt to the Handsome King, as his master if you free Tiger he would be unable to refuse. Honor demands he faithfully serve both the handsome king and the Handsome king's master." Hellcat explained.

"I see." I turned to King Banks. "Father-in-law..." I said, and Banks flinched.

"I don't like that look in your eye, boy. It's too much like your mother's." King Banks crossed his arms.

Calypso squealed excitedly. "As expected of MY son, this is getting so exciting."

"... I have a favor to ask. If I can tame, and make all four of these demon beasts my familiars, as well as prove I can manage them, can I have them?" I asked remembering the day I asked Van and Amelia if I could keep Ralla and her familiar as if they were stray cats I'd brought home rather than dangerous man eating murder beasts.

Ch. 8 Cheshire's Blade

Sebas

"How in the Fels do you plan to do that?" He asked, and I could see in his eyes that he was ready to see whatever kind of show I was about to put on.

I spoke to Cheshire to confirm something. Chess didn't answer with words, but his curling Alice in Wonderland smile gave me all the confidence that I needed.

"How do you think?" I give king Banks my sliest foxy grin, and I can see my mother in the corner of my eye with the same prideful grin. "Give me three days!" I hold up three fingers. "Gather what crowds you can for a preliminary exposition match. Prince Sebas and his familiar will attempt to tame four Rank 'A' Demon Cats."

"You can't be serious?" Minerva asked.

"Darling, if you've learned anything about my son by now, you should know that accomplishing the impossible is Sebas's favorite pastime." Calypso snapped open a decorative black fan with a flip of her wrist and fanned herself arrogantly.

"Queen in Chains, how is that for a proposal? Face my familiar and I in honorable combat. Should you refuse my offer, your fate will remain unchanged. If we win you will become my familiars on top of swearing a life-debt of loyalty to serve me since you will be freed from your cages. Should you incapacitate me and Cheshire, I will swear an oath to have you returned to where you were captured over the cliff." I offer my deal to Hellcat. "However, in a show of good faith I will grant you your wish for names regardless of accepting my deal."

"Father can he do that?" Nerinin asked Banks.

"I don't see why not. If they are our kin in the form of demon beasts, then it is our duty as wolves and Felhounds to see that they are given the chance to become Familiars or an honorable death." Banks answered.

"But if he names them and fails..." Nerinin said.

"Do you have so little faith in the man you love who so easily bested you twice?" Banks scratched his chin.

"Master Sebas." Hellcat spoke to me. "I have already agreed to all of your terms is it necessary for me to fight?"

"Appreciate your importance as Queen in Chains. I must prove my dominance to the King of Wolves to ensure your release from your chains." I tell her telepathically.

"Hmm. I understand. Very well. We accept your terms. In three days we will meet you in combat for dominance, greater-than-a-king Sebas." Hellcat flicked her tail. "I look forward to testing the strength of my future master and beloved, whatever fate may have in store." She addressed Cheshire. "Should you best me, beloved, I will be your mate and our children will be the Cheshire under your master, so I swear."

"I will come for you, my Queen in Chains." Chess placed his paw on the cage.

*

"Sebas." Cheshire asked on the way back to the mansion. "Why are we waiting three days? Why not fight now? Do we not have the power?"

"Cheshire, no matter what you believe, if you have a chance to prepare for a battle you should take it. Many wars are won before they are begun, and the victor is the one who knows more. We shall use these three days to ensure our victory." I explain.

"How shall we proceed?" He asked.

"I'm about to teach you some very important war arts that you'll never learn from Ralla or the other beasts." I reveal my plot to Cheshire. "I fully expect the Queen and the others fight to their fullest, but that doesn't mean that they have any more concept in information wars than you or your mom. You will go and discuss with the Queen about the battle prowess of her and your friends. Play on their pride and ask about their greatest kills and most successful hunts. From those stories we may learn their strengths and weaknesses. I will talk Nerinin and King Banks about their capture and traditional ways to fight them."

"I see. Master, is that honorable?" Cheshire asked.

"There is a saying I feel fits our circumstances. 'All is fair in love and war'. If you love the Queen then we should use every resource at our disposal to obtain victory. I could suggest we poison their food or starve them out until our battle, but I feel like it is more important for everyone if we don't give them an excuse for failure."

"I agree that poisoning their food is dishonorable. I think I understand. We do not need to hinder them, but if we improve our chances of winning through countermeasures we will not have to." Cheshire agreed.

"There are many ways to win a war. If you know that your opponent is going to employ fire magic to light the area on fire then you prepare water attack magic, soak the battlefield in water, remove anything flammable, and wear fireproof armor. This is how the clever fight the strong. Information and preparation allow children to fight veterans and cause hundreds to conquer thousands. Do not think that I have survived as long as I have by remaining ignorant and prideful."

"What about when you stabbed yourself, explain that one." Cheshire poked.

"Errr... I know where my vitals are in my body. I chose to stab myself in a place that would avoid instant death. I taught the court mage both healing magic and mundane means for rescuing lives. I also refrained from removing the blade immediately since it would cause faster blood loss and a quicker death... But that doesn't mean it wasn't stupidly reckless." I laugh.

"So what you are saying is that a knife is only as deadly as where it strikes. And with the right information we can choose to make it lethal every time." Cheshire surmised.

"If I am to prove that I am a worthy master to those four, I must do more than overpower them. I must show that I am able to conquer any task even if it is greater than myself. Remember, we are not only trying to convince the familiars, but to everyone, that I am capable of leading and controlling them. Otherwise our victory may prove fruitless." I explain.

"Then let us not only sharpen our blades, but also coat them in poison." Cheshire was getting serious.

"Now, you are getting the hang of it." I said as I began to put my plans into action.

Ch. 9 Cheshire's Debut

Sebas

The crowds filled the arena seats in nicely. High stone walls with magical rune covered pillars circled an area of cleared earth. The high stone walls were more of a visual safety measure than any actual defense. The rune covered pillars created a powerful magical barrier. It was strong enough to stop a herd of undead Lich spellcasters hurling all their spells at it, or a thirty-foot giant bashing at it with the magical hammer of Thor for at least a whole day. And it went straight up into the sky.

Around the stone wall were wooden stands for spectators to watch the events from safety. The stands were only partially completed however the royal boxes were ready to be used at any time. Just for a situation like this. They were going to charge for the few seats they had open, but I insisted that this occasion be free. When they asked why I told them that I needed to prove that I could handle these giant cats there might be a panic if the common folk heard four Rank 'A's were released and had no idea what was going on. Plus, It would also be a great moral boost for the natives to get a free event before they were too busy to think.

What I didn't expect was how great the moral boost would be. When the news release that 'The Archangel Sebas' was going to 'subjugate four Rank 'A' Demon Beasts with his Familiar' the workers expedited the completion of the spectator stands. In three days a job that was supposed to take another week and a half was finished. I didn't realize that I was such a big deal. Maybe they all just wanted to see me get mauled? I honestly couldn't guess how people came to see me. The humans in the capital were pretty friendly toward me, but that didn't mean everyone was my biggest fan.

After one life of being the butt of every joke I have no delusions of grandeur.

I have decided that this is going to be Cheshire's debut. The Handsome Cheshire King is something that no one will be expecting. At the very least this will be a good show.

I was waiting to be announced. When I am the doors to the arena will open and I'll walk in. Cheshire is resting on my shoulders with his tail swaying back and forth eagerly. In three days we worked ourselves to the bone and came up with a strategy that will lead to our victory.

As a prince and a warrior, my mother presented me a set of armor designed by my sisters. I'm very impressed by it. Not only is the hardened leather armor cuirass comfortable and easy to move in, but it is supposed to be hardcore. With plenty of fireproofing and enchantments for regeneration its practically made for my shirt destroying curse. The leather greaves were secretly reinforced with strengthened metal plates. My boots were basically steel-toed shoes that compensated for my feral fighting style. Even my gloves and vambraces were designed with clawing on the ground and my magic in mind.

I originally wasn't going to bring in a weapon besides the knife Zorlo gifted me, but I was overruled by everyone saying that I needed something. I settled for a short sword strapped to my back. But the most defining feature of my armor was the glowing emblem of the Asmos Ti'en house on my left breast.

I feel like I should be scared. I could seriously die. But I'm too excited. I've never been able to push Cheshire to his limits, but thanks to sparing with Ralla and the girls we had some experience with fighting Giant Cats. I was also going to go all out. I couldn't afford to hold back, and I opted out of the other events so that I could throw my cards down here without worry. I've also taught Cheshire a few new skills that I can't wait to see him put into practice.

"Attention Ladies and Gentlemen," A professional announcer used magic to amplify his voice and addressed everyone in attendance. "We have made you wait long enough. Now for the moment you've all been waiting for. A young Tamer will attempt to subjugate four, count them, four Rank 'A' Demon Beasts at the same time! Such a thing has never been attempted in a setting like this. This rare treat was brought to you by the three illustrious kingdoms and their representatives. From our very own Sudaven we are graced by of future ruler, the Crown Princess Minerva. From our enemy turned Ally is the mother of our challenger and Queen of Teagon, the Dark Lady Calypso Asmos Ti'en. And last but not least, his understanding and generosity is the reason we even have these beasts to challenge, we have the King of Grandine, the Felhound Banks."

There was a large cheer from the crowd. The announcer went through his routine and charismatically stole the crowd's attention.

"Now we shall introduce the four Demon Beasts that whose futures are at stake. First, we have a couple of mighty kings, they are rulers of the earth and the heavens the mighty and swift Sky Lions." He announced and there was an applause as the two blue lions came out. "Next we have the Divine Emperor himself a Demon Beast that is considered so close to Spirits that even the Dragons of old respected his might, the Shining Tiger." There was another set of applause and whistles. However, before he even introduced the last one the crowd went silent when they saw her. "And finally, the true prize of this afternoon's battle. She is so devastatingly powerful that even the very Fels quake at her approach. She is most powerful of all you see before you, she is the Queen in Chains, the Lethally Beautiful Phantom Hellcat!" The reactions after Hellcat was introduce was a mixed bag. Some were excited to see her and other were completely afraid of her.

Next up was me.

"Making his debut as a Tamer, he has somehow managed to keep his familiar hidden from prying eyes, this boy has as many tricks and secrets up his sleeve as his mother the Dark Lady. Even so this four-tailed fox has chosen to follow a kinder path. You know him, you love him, he's your future king and hero, the Guardian Angel Sebas Asmos Ti'en!" he announced.

I stepped into the sunlight of the arena and the applause hurt my ears. I waved first at the royalty box and then the rest of the spectators. I wasn't prepared for the volume of their cheers to get even louder when I waved at them. Maybe they don't hate me as much as I thought they did? But I don't have time to think about that as I see the four Demon Cats staring at me.

"Also making his debut, is a Familiar that breaks all the rules. He has been formally recognized as a new species. He was born as a Dire Panther and when Sebas opened the infamous Foxgate he used its power to save his life. The power transformed him and made him into something new with untold potential. Give it up for a new era of Familiars, as we bring you The Handsome Cheshire King!" He announced.

The crowd roared for a moment, but the confusion only grew as they only saw me.

Cheshire you troll!

I chuckle as I roll my shoulder and I can hear him snickering in my ear as from nose to tail he becomes visible. The crowds roar of applause quickly calmed as they speculated on just how powerful the housecat on my shoulder could be.

I scratched the useless cat behind the ears. "Alright, Chess, let's show them who you really are."

Cheshire jumped off my shoulder, and in the process, he grew to his full size as he let out a loud roar that shook the entire arena. He was just as large as, if not bigger than, the Silver and White tiger on the other side of the arena.

The crowd went silent and then cheered enthusiastically at his grand entrance.

After the crowd calmed down King Banks stood up. "This is a little unorthodox to say the least. Upon meeting Cheshire and Sebas these noble beasts expressed interest in becoming Sebas's familiars if he was able to prove his strength. Should they win, they will have their freedom, and should they lose they will swear loyalty. Regardless of this arrangement they have asked that Sebas grant them Names. And so we will begin the naming Ceremony with the Sky Lions. Please approach Sebas and receive your names."

Ch. 10 Dire Names

Sebas

There was a murmur among the crowd, but everyone eventually went quiet at the unusual sight of two giant blue winged cats slowly approaching me.

"There is a story of heroes long passed," I say as I begin the naming ceremony with a bit of flair. "Two of these heroes were said to have been as close as brothers and they faced my challenges together and even fought the great Devil and won. The first was a boy that grew into a man and challenged evil with both wit and brawn, and the second was a man from the country who faced down a dragon and managed to win her heart with his valor and loyalty. I have heard much about you two and have chosen to name you after these brothers-in-arms. My'kel the hero and his brother Alvin the woodsman. Cherish these names and uphold their honor with your lives."

My'kel had a tuft of fur that was longer than the rest on the top of his head and was a solid color of blue across his whole body. Alvin was slightly larger, and his body was a darker blue while his wings were closer to white.

They bowed, thanked me for their name and returned to their starting point. Next was the white and silver tiger.

"I have heard much about you, divine tiger. Not just about your adventures but your capture. You are fearsome, strong, and at the peak of what demon beasts can achieve through their own hard work. There is a mythical material I learned about, it's at the height of what can be made without incorporating magic. A fearsome alloy precisely composed with a careful formula and forged to be as stubbornly strong as the most indomitable will. The name I give you is Tungsten. Whether you serve a master or wander free, live everyday with an unbreakable will to surpass your own limits."

Tungsten mulled over his name then he gave me a satisfactory nod and returned to his starting position.

Hellcat was the last to approach me.

I smile broadly. "Queen in Chains, I thought long and hard about your wish and your name. Cheshire hasn't been the same since he met you, but I don't hate him growing. His loyalty is more than I deserve in a thousand lifetimes. He is a man of very few words but when he speaks of you it's like he is trying to compose a poem. A woman as beautiful as you deserve a name that would fit in the shortest sonnets and the longest love songs. You are the beautiful flower of the best friend's life, Lorelei."

"Lorelei..." Cheshire stepped forward. "... my beautiful Lorelei." I could hear the joy in his voice.

"Handsome Cheshire King, show me your strength and I will be yours." Lorelei nodded at Cheshire and then she turned to me. "Thank you Sebas, you have made my dream come true. Prove that you are worthy, and my line will become your warriors."

"Don't worry, Queen Lorelei, thanks to you Cheshire and I won as soon as we entered the arena." I smile.

"Mmm? I don't understand, but if you are that confident, then I look forward to seeing what you have in store." Lorelei turned around and returned to her starting position.

"You were right master, they do not suspect a thing." Cheshire stood next to me. "I admit I was unsure about how all those stories were going to be useful, but you surprised me when you pointed out all their weaknesses from them. You really are something else master, I can understand how you defeated Rollo when you were so young."

"That was dumb luck and brute force. I'm not strong enough to face even one of them on my own, let alone all four of them even at full strength. I'll be relying on you for the bulk of the combat. I have faith that you can hold them off." I say. "Just remember our opening move will dictate our success."

"We will give them the shock of a lifetime." Cheshire smiled.

*

Zorlo

The crowd was silent at the end of the naming ceremony. I had just barely arrived with King Bastion, Fredrick, and the Princesses. We had enough time to see the naming and we then we filed in to get a better look at the fight. Sebas hasn't noticed us as we enter the nobles' box. One of the nobles from the fox kingdom gets up from his chair but Bastion just waved him to calm down. He made his way to his Wife Calypso and gave her a kiss as a greeting.

"That son of yours has no concept of danger, does he?" He laughed.

"He gets that from his bull-headed father." Calypso retorted as she reached up to lace her fingers with his.

"Zorlo, do you think he can win?" Fredrick asked me.

"I'd like to say that he wouldn't have entered this fight without a plan. Either way his dumb luck hasn't let him down yet." I answered.

Sebas looks like he has grown considerably since we parted. Before, he was a free and happy child who had responsibility thrust on his shoulders. The Sebas in front of me had the confident baring of king, the smile of a fox with a trick of his sleeve, and the eagerness of one who would never turn down a fight.

A part of me thinks that his innocence has been lost in these few short months. Another part of me wonders if the man underneath has just been polished and is shining through.

Sebas Asmos Ti'en, an eight year old, stared down four Rank 'A' Demon Beasts the size of covered wagons. All my years of witnessing impossible things hadn't prepared me very well for Sebas. I don't even know what I could have taught him. He chases danger like it's his mistress, fights against fate like it's his bitter enemy, and courts luck with unyielding charm in the only dance his two left feet will let him gracefully lead. He had the makings of a hero.

A very powerful hero.

That also worried me because he also had the capacity to be a very powerful villain. Nelfa and I never spoke of it aloud but we both knew that if he ever showed signs of cruelty or malice we would put him down like a rabid dog. I almost did once. After he tortured that Assassin in Teagon. I bit my tongue and was prepared to do what was necessary. Even if it made me an enemy of two kingdoms.

I was so close.

What stopped me was Sebas's honest introspection. When he looked at me with those tears and asked me "What am I protecting?" My heart broke. It was a moment that could have changed his fate forever. In the moment, I felt the weight of his life in my hands. He could have very easily turned his confusion into anger which he would have taken out on the world. Instead, he was saved by his family and himself. The bonds that he had created came back and saved him in the form of his sisters and the woman who should have been plotting to kill him.

I'll never tell Sebas how close I was to ending his story that day.

However, as I consider the Arena with five large demon cats and a small boy I wonder how many more times he'll dance with death. I hope that someday he comes to understand the value of his life is greater than his ability to cast a spell or swing a sword.