Azera The Cheshire

The plan had always been to unify the tribes, just without me being front and center. I had wanted them to form bonds with each other, and come together on their own. To form a council between the leaders, and let them take care of everything themselves while I offered advice from the side lines. Now, I was something of a defacto leader, holding the power to settle disputes. A position forced upon me, by the mother of this pesky beetle.

Two weeks had passed after the night of the blind eye. Liz, and those that would listen to her, were sent to the assassin support group. All of them required to attend sessions every other day to help them get familiar with the Underground. I had Jacky and Midnight passing through the tribes, letting them know what was happening. Most of the tribes were excited to finally do something like this, while others reluctantly agreed.

There was no helping it, after Mimi marched enough beetles through the streets to put even Kobe on edge. It wasn't enough to destroy a big gang, or the tribes, but it was enough to cripple a lot of people. Especially if they left people wounded, and unable to work. It forced the tribes to work together with their different shamans in an attempt to fix Richard. An attempt that sadly failed, and kept those same people on edge. No one wanted to be the one to set off this beetle's mother.

I pulled my finger back, as the brat bit on it. The first council meeting wasn't for a few hours, and I had everyone scheduled to come at different times so I could introduce them to Pandora here. The pest I put on her back, and spun, since she bit me. The bug that was able to control some of the beetles, and had a habit of putting on fire shows in the street. She kicked her legs about, rocking on her shell, to try and catch herself. Another brush from my hand had her spinning a few more times. Really, this was the best way to discipline her.

At this point, I wouldn't be surprised if Mimi just gave me her kid, so she wouldn't have to watch over it. The brat had a tendency to cause all sorts of problems. Crawling along the ceilings, and moving the beetles she could around. Scaring guards half to death, by dropping on top of them. Scaring them even more whenever they took their eyes off her and was replaced by another beetle that was a bit smaller. The worst were her tantrums whenever a tutor said she made a mistake.

She was great at math, learning how to add and subtract on her first day. She could multiply, and divide by the second day. She even understood the more advanced stuff just fine. She liked language lessons, even if she couldn't speak it. She took her time writing her sentences, and had a decent understanding of what needed to be done. I would even go so far, as to say she enjoyed them both. What she didn't like was making a mistake, or being told she was wrong. The first time it happened, Mimi had requested a new tutor and a few people to go over why it was wrong. The second time the paper was caught on fire, followed by a streak of pranks. I didn't want a third time.

Which was why I decided to take this brat with me, whenever the questions were being checked. It was fine if they weren't marked as wrong, and usually a request to show more work was enough. The bug was smart enough to see when it made a mistake, but hated being called out. I stopped Pandora from spinning, while she kicked her eight legs out at me. It was strange, how they were essentially four pairs that almost snapped together when she walked. They were almost like the stingers Mimi had, but different. They had barbs facing opposite ways to lock them together, and if too much weight was put on her, they would kind of act like springs.

Pandora looked at me, clicking her mandibles angrily. At least I assumed it was anger, because I still couldn't read beetle face. I gently rubbed her stomach, a surefire way of calming her down. The brat had to spend her down time with me, for whatever reason. I wouldn't allow it, if not for the fact that it keeps her mother placated. I had to use portals to help her take all the books she could find on rituals and curses to pore over. It was clear she had been desperate just over a week ago, locking herself in her warehouse with Richard. I kept an eye on the Fiend's Eye territory, while a few people reported seeing the hags move one night or another.

If those hags were alive, then it meant I had to keep preparing for the worst. Though I doubted those rumors when I saw the monster church covered in beetles maybe three days ago. Times were changing, and a lot of smaller gangs were fighting less. The Underground was changing, becoming more organized slowly. Curses had been broken left and right, and more people were preparing to walk the streets and alleys again. Information was scarce, as the Fiend's Eye lost a good deal of its power overnight. It was likely that Mimi was still moving plans forward for taking that husk over, but it was clearly changing everything for the South and East sides.

Now, more than ever, the tribes needed to unite in the face of this uncertainty. The Raven was gone, and I expected the vacuum he left to be filled by the Eye or Mal. The Eye was gone, and Mal had not made any meaningful moves during all of this. Kobe wasn't foolish enough to try expanding when he knew the Tribes were uniting. If he showed weakness, a few on his borders would be more than happy to expand their territory and wealth. There just was no telling how all the pieces would fall in the chaos.

The door opened, shaking me from my thoughts, as I grinned at small fox girl entering the room. Pale white fur, with a small muzzle, her four tails the only thing betraying her actual age. To me, she looked just like any other fox girl beastman, if a bit shorter due to her not getting enough food in her younger days. Her ears were as big as her head, her face hidden behind a veil with only a few patches of fur coming out. She had a silk blindfold over her eyes, but walked without a cane as Jacky came in behind her.

I lowered my head in respect for a second, while setting Pandora back on her legs in front of me. Jacky strode forward, pulling out a chair for the leader of the Mist Fox tribe. Like most tribes, this one was led by a shaman, and their most capable warrior. Where they differed, was that the Mist Fox tribe had a habit of tricking others with clever ploys and exploiting loop holes where they could. It took me years to finally find out who was their real leader, and even more time to befriend them.

Jacky pulled out a few cushions to help with Kyu's height, keeping them hidden with his illusions. The fox shaman looked right at me, bowing her head slightly. "It is a pleasure as always, Cheshire. I thank you for letting Jacky and myself arrive first."

I grinned back, despite knowing she couldn't see me. "Of course, lady Kyu. I understand this must be difficult for you, to reveal yourself to the other tribes you do not trust. To those that have not earned it yet, but I am glad you are here."

She nodded slowly, "It is fine, you are aware that I have a daughter, as well as other fine vixens waiting for you. You can make it up to me, by choosing one to be your wife. My tribe will welcome you with open arms, or legs if you're so inclined."

I shook my head, while Jacky coughed a little. "I must apologize my lady, for how can I love just one member of your tribe?" Jacky was outright blushing by this point, the poor guy didn't believe me when I said these were the things we talked about while in private.

Kyu laughed softly, "Ah, such a shame. Though you said just one member? If you love everyone, then that means even the men are up for grabs."

I returned the laugh, "Indeed it does. Your body guard might need to be careful~" I winked at Jacky, teasing him for blushing.

Jacky shook his head, "Okay! I believe you, just stop it, both of you."

Both Kyu and me laughed at his outburst. The former poking his side, "It was all in good jest, but this is how we greet each other. Cheshire, I assume you wanted us here first for a reason beyond making the attempt to keep my little game going?"

I nodded, "Indeed I did. Though you are blind, I know you can see more with your magic. Do you mind telling me if I've been manipulated by mental compulsions. I can't start this council in good faith, unless I know a certain pest here hasn't been fucking with my thoughts." I poked Pandora's back, as she turned around to bite my finger.

The blindfold glowed softly, as Kyu lowered her head. "If you were, would it truly matter?"

I took a slow breath, smiling at the pest. "I suppose it wouldn't since we could be forced to do this. Mental attacks are a nasty thing, able to turn lovers into bitter enemies. I figured the blue beetles could use mind attacks, or the like since this one always changed her colors when trying to connect with me."

"Did you ever let her in?" Kyu kept her voice calm, but devoid of emotion.

"A couple times, but she always disconnected before saying anything. I didn't think much of it at first, but now it does eat away at me. What if it was some kind of trick?" Pandora stopped gnawing at my finger, and rubbed her head against it.

"Normally, I would charge a fee for what I just did. Though, given your intentions and how you helped us in the past. I will waive that fee. You are untouched by suggestions, or manipulation. Your thoughts are your own, but you did have a memory repressed. Something about a piece of paper with an incorrect answer?"

I took a deep breath, smiling down at the little pest that I wanted to strangle. I pulled my hand away, as she moved back. I lunged forward, lifting her up with both hands, while she kicked her feet. "How many times? How many answers were wrong?" I gently set Pandora on her back, while she kicked her legs out, trying to right herself.

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"Ten I believe, at least in relation to your question and the total. I feel the number of answers that were wrong, had more to do with whatever this was about."

I looked down at Pandora, "Ten times three because you crossed me thrice. You can't end an odd multiple on an even, so thirty one spins" The pest rubbed her legs together in a pleading gesture, before I started spinning her. I kept track of the spins, while looking back to Kyu. "Thank you for that, by the way this little pest here is named Pandora. She's the daughter of the monster you met in that shed a couple nights after the incident."

"I see, I take it she will be listening in on our conversation with the others?" Kyu rubbed the muzzle under her veil in thought.

"Yeah, it's better to be open with the mother of this trouble maker. She would find out eventually anyway, but it's more important that we show how willing we are to working with her. You know, so she can focus on keeping her territory safe from the Underneath, and continue to hunt burrow worms."

Kyu and Jacky both nodded in agreement. Kyu resting both hands on her lap, "Agreed, there is nothing to gain from keeping secrets from an ally that is capable of feeding all the tribes. To that end, when the mother of this child comes to our tribe, we will bestow upon her a map of the areas we are aware of. The spots in the dead-zone with places of interest, monster nests, cults, and even beasts that are edible."

I tilted my head, "Those scouting missions Jacky went on with other warriors? That will be a wonderful gift, to welcome the new gang." I stopped spinning Pandora at fifteen spins, choosing to spin her the opposite direction to really make her suffer for playing with my memories.

"Naturally, and I do look forward to that talk once everything has settled down." We both nodded at that. The implications remaining unspoken. Kyu probably intended on sending Jacky on more scouting parties to see just how fast the Wraiths could move and secure an area. To gauge how secure they will be as a food source, while putting her tribe in a good spot for providing such information. A neutral move, that was perfectly in line with their previous actions.

The door opened again, as Levi entered, a fresh scar on her bicep. She wore the mantle that marked her as tribe leader. All conversation stopped, as she walked to her spot, sitting down with a bitter expression. I nodded in understanding, since she probably had to defeat her mother to become their leader. This meant Levi was the first battle shaman of her tribe, a figure that was both the best warrior and caster. The unquestionable leader, that held all the power her tribe could afford.

After a few minutes, I finally finished punishing Pandora. Levi looked at her, then me. I explained who she was, knowing I'll probably have to do this a few more times. I cleared my throat, smiling at Levi, "So, why are you the tribe leader now?"

Levi crossed her arms, looking down. "Mother lost interest in using me to court you. I took offense, and we decided to fight about it. I was tired of being called a kitten, and being used. I did try to explain to her that I doubted Ace would have interest in my form, now we are here."

I blinked, at her voice. How it was lower than usual, more husky. She flexed her muscles a little, showing they had grown a bit more dense. I let out a small sigh, "I'm going to miss my little kitten, now you're all grown up and the alpha of the pack. I guess I can't bully you anymore~"

She shot daggers at me, smirking. "Nope, and if you try I'll bully you in return. You better be careful Cheshire, when winter comes you might find yourself in my tent~"

I laughed a little, while Jacky coughed. "Are you two done flirting?"

Kyu covered crossed her arms, "Indeed, for it is I who bears his child in my belly. I'm afraid you were just a few seasons too late deary."

Jacky let out a groan, as we all chuckled. Levi cracked her neck, stretching a little. "Why did you want me here so early? The growing pains of becoming an alpha are kind of annoying. I'd much rather be napping, and snacking right now."

"Well, mainly to discuss what your tribe is going to do. I was kind of worried your mom would come in here, and say you were Ace's gift. It's just a terrible idea on so many levels, so don't even get me started." I looked at Levi, who returned my stare with a mildly annoyed look.

"You thought I'd lose?" Her voice low, as if challenging me.

I put my hands up, "You didn't even tell me you were going to fight her. I knew you could win if you fought her, you just had to want it. Sadly the first reason for this council joining, is to repay the Wraiths for the food they will be bringing in. Even if they are technically under us, those here know the truth of the matter. It's more apt to say this is less a gift, and more a tribute to a power that could cripple the tribes. It's also to help the other tribe leaders consider something better than poison or herbs to give."

Jacky nodded in sync with Kyu. Levi scowled a little, looking at the beetle that managed to finally right itself. "My tribe is small, and most of my kind prefer assassinating or brute work. Something I doubt is actually needed. Did you have something in mind Cheshire?"

I nodded, "A favor owed. It will probably be for the best to have most small tribes offer that. Just be prepared, since they might want to kill and eat a member of the tribe in question."

Levi growled a little, but looked away, "You want me to lead with that after Jacky's leader? To show what kind of gifts you expect to work the best?"

"Yeah, it opens the door for backroom negotiations, but I doubt any of the small tribes will be able to convince the Wraiths to work for them. I doubt even the big tribes could manage that. We'll start off meetings in the future with the small tribes saying if they repaid their favor or not."

"You would have the other tribes mock us further, for not being able to repay a debt!?" Levi bared her fangs at me for the first time.

I raised my hands, "Calm down, and think it through. You're the only one I could ask to do this. There is strength in taking this course, to lead the smaller tribes so they do not hurt themselves needlessly."

Levi clenched her clawed hand, slamming it into the table. "You still think I'm weak don't you!?"

"I never said that!" I took a second to calm my voice, a small smile on my face. "I never said that you were weak." I looked her in the eye, "I need you to do this for me. If you can't, then what was the point of becoming the leader of your tribe? Do you really think you can win if all those bugs come for you? Last I checked, they could set the entire ground on fire. Would you kill you tribe like that? Do you want to watch everything burn?"

Levi's pupils slitted, and honed in on me. She took a deep breath, "I'm not weak anymore..." She looked away, her voice still holding a spark of resistance.

I snapped my fingers, "Look at me." She glared at me again, "I never said you were weak. You were always the strongest warrior of your tribe, the strongest of your people." I got up, walking to her. She bared her fangs again, her claws out. I kept my eyes locked with her own. "Your strength wasn't your claws, your magic, or your talent." I thumped her chest. "It was here, that heart of yours that made you who you are. You did what you had to do for your tribe. You helped to keep their pride from getting them killed. They wouldn't be where they were without you." I leaned in closer, "Being alpha doesn't change a thing for you, because you always were the strongest. Think back Levi, have I ever once called you weak? Even when you were still a kit running around, playing with the others?"

She looked at my chest, lost in her memories. She was holding back her tears, as she finally shook her head slowly. I wrapped my arms around her head, pulling her into my chest. I scratched her neck, rubbing her ears. "That's right, you never were weak. You just felt like you were. I get it, you're emotional because your body aches, and you're changing. Just don't forget who you are deep down, and do what you need to do. If you fuck this up, I will put you down myself." I really didn't want to hurt her, but there was too much at stake here. The tribes were in danger, and if I needed to I would sacrifice a few of the smaller ones to protect whoever I could.

Levi nodded, "I'm better now... I apologize. I will offer a favor, as you have asked. I need to fight you tonight though. I need to see how much stronger I have become..."

I nodded, "Sure thing. I won't hold back, so just be ready."

With that out of the way, the rest of the tribes filtered in just a little early. I saw Jacky wink, a sign that he managed to keep them from hearing a single word. I thanked him with a nod, before starting our first council. The ground rules were laid out, that no aggressive action was to be taken on these grounds. Any tribe that broke these rules, were to be broken by the others, and scattered among the rest. Their leader, or the one responsible, was to be sold into slavery for the tribe they had offended. The harsh rules were enough to keep even the most radical tribe in line.

We spoke of the feuds, and what would be required to resolve them. There were questions about the new benefactor, with the more arrogant tribe leaders declaring they should demand more. That was when we spoke of the gifts we needed to give, where I dropped hints about it being a tribute to the smarter of the bunch. With the majority, we were able to reach a decent resolution with most of the problems having a solution in mind. I would need to move people around, and put Liz and her group to work making sure everything works out well enough. Even if Liz's group does something stupid, the individuals could be used as a scape goat to unite feuding tribes.

Now, we just needed Mimi to keep providing food. To give the tribes a semblance of peace for however many months to it might take to truly unite them.

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Bishop Francis

Every day, this city strays further from our gods. The patronage of the king was gone, though he did not bleed our coffers as much as we feared. He took the family of dwarves that were to support us, after the death of Oswald. Still he kept his word, like a devil, and so did the pope. I was left here as the head of the church in this city, burdened with the task of fulfilling the wills of our gods. The Deacons tended to the flocks, moving the most pious fathers and mothers in their holy tasks.

The donations were steadily coming in, though some of the flock had lost its faith with our Pope's absence. Still, good cannot be defeated by evil. Many followers made lost their way, turning their worship towards the false god Bo'chi. The proclaimed daughter, of that profane spirit, giving false miracles to the people. There was no touch of the radiance our true saviors held. There was no miracle, and yet those with lost limbs regrew them. Those afflicted with the blight of black blood were healed.

Surely it was the work of the false prophet that was foretold in the most ancient of texts. This devil of Bo'chi, the temptress that crept through the shadows. The one called blight eater, as she was a monster reclaiming her blood. The one given birth by the mad god, and was foretold to be guided by a demon. This false messiah bringing worship to a false god! If the pope were still here, he would have called for a crusade, but he could not without confirming such with his own eyes.

Thus it all falls to me, to strike against the dark being that threatens to birth the four evils. The first foretold by famine, which our most devout have found in the Underground. The pit of evil of this city. The second would be foretold by death, and the was the incident just a couple weeks ago involving people dying. The third will be foretold by war itself, and the bloody vampire was waging that. The fourth and most terrible evil would be born after the first three. The one that needed to die at all costs. Even if I was to die, it would all be worth it to declare a crusade on the root of all evil. The daughter of Bo'chi must die, evil is a weed that must be pulled out before it can grow.