King of Cats (for Seanan) copyright S. J. Tucker 2010

The King of Cats keeps promises, but don't get in his way.
The monster really isn't one, no matter what she'll try to say.
The queen is mad, as all queens are, in fiefdoms by the sea
It's on the last October Daye the truth will set us free.

Don't count on acts of mercy from those who look at kings.
When not required to make much sense, you get away with anything.
Leave your logic far away from Tybalt and his court
and never tempt the wrath of those who see well in the dark.

Musk and pennyroyal magic, coming out to play:
once he's put his eyes on you you cannot look away.
No shadow here will hide you that doesn't know his name
for tybalt is a wily one with not a lick of shame.

Fae all know the same strange roads,
but not a one is talking,
Making sure the bread crumbs go
to where the beast is stalking.

Tybalt walks the shadows, walks the sunshine like a pro.
When he turns upon his heel, be wise and do not follow.
The cheshire moon, his messenger, will follow you through town.
And when your heart is breaking, he will carry you back home.

When you've got a secret, careful what you do not say.
It's only on his pleasure, on his whim you're hale and here to stay.
How to trip up he who's never shown a weakness yet, who could take
Scones and tea with Oberon and never break a sweat?

Follow every clue you can but don't wait up for the sun.
You know whose smile you'll answer to if caught out when the dark is done.
When a whole network of murders tries to drive you out of town remember that
Other sorts of politics can help you stand your ground.

Cats all know the same strange roads,
but not a one is talking,
Putting swirls of bread crumbs where
you never thought of walking.

The King of Cats keeps promises, but don't get in his way.
The monster really isn't one, no matter what she'll try to say.
The queen is mad, as all queens are, in fiefdoms by the sea.
It's with but one October Daye the truth will set us free.



Tune's still settling in, but this was a big hit at the release party tonight for A Local Habitation.  seanan_mcguire  sat in the front row and bounced, and she laughed disconcertingly at the end of the song.  I think that was the desired effect.

Love you all.  :D  SO glad Tybalt decided to cooperate and let me finish his song in time.  It was a near thing.