The Cat Has Claws

By Viviana Rivera

Everyone knows everyone and yet no one knows anyone at all.

In a world where Earth is gifted with mystical creatures, one of a kind plantlife, and magic like


no other, the gods finally meet their match.

Wren, the Sun God, the Sun King, the man in charge of the creation of all things

and is the one that brings about the Sun and Gray, the Moon God, the Moon King,

the man in charge of all mortality and brings about the Moon and tide are faced with a disturbance that

threatens both them and their existence.

All while the threat prowls, others face their own inner demons. If they want to help their


beloved gods save the world, they’ll all have to come clean.

A lot is riding on the success of both royalty and commoners.

The fate of existence is in their hands. Should they fail in their efforts, nothing will be left.

And it will all be because the one they're up against,

will always land on his feet.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Aug 9, 2021
• ISBN: 9781664187153

Book preview

Copyright © 2021 by Viviana Rivera.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Rev. date: 07/24/2021

Xlibris

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CONTENTS

Names

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Author’s Note

Special Thanks

To my mom for being a little crazy

And watching one too many dramas…

The book would be nothing without her.

-Author

NAMES

Atmosphere (Atam)- At-moh-s-feer (At-am)

Terra- Teh-rah

Felis (Eli)- Fee-l-iss (Ee-lie)

Alchem- Al-keh-m

Wren- R-eh-n

Grave (Gray)- Gr-ay-v (Gr-ay)

Fate- F-ay-t

Lucia- Loo-sh-ia

Ember- Eh-m-ber

Ebbsen- Eh-b-s-eh-n

Helen- Heh-l-eh-n

Kaine- K-ay-ee-n

Intro

It will hide away most of the time,

but every now and again

it’ll scratch you to remind you it’s there.

CHAPTER 1

A tam, maybe we shouldn’t play with this stuff. Alchem might be mad, warned Terra.

Atmosphere, the older of the twins, scoffed at his nervous brother, Alchem? That old guy had nothing to worry about but cholesterol and getting up too fast. Atam continued to mix various liquids, pouring them all into a large beaker. Terra watched anxiously and then glanced over at the door. Right outside, Alchem was talking with Felis, also known as Eli, the only cat hybrid of the area.

Atam, we might get in trouble.

Terra’s persistence was getting on Atam’s nerves so he sighed, Gramps and the pussy boy won’t get mad if nothing happens. Nothing important anyways. Besides, there is nothing happening. I thought this would be more entertaining.

Atam rolled his eyes and added a bright green fluid to the concoction, making the mixture erupt and explode. The boys coughed at the exposure to smoke and ash. It crisped the ends of their hair, burning like hesitant sparklers.

Alchem stepped into the hut, aggravation evident in his expression, How old are you two? Five? You know better than to play with my ingredients.

With black remnants in his hair, Atam smirked at him, "My apologies, oh ancient one, but you should know better than to leave me in here alone." Alchem seemed irritated by his behavior already.

Alchem chided Atam, My bad, I thought that after 23 years of life, you would have gained self control.

Atam rolled his eyes, If you don’t loosen up, you’ll stress yourself and get wrinkles. For a man that was 274, he looked just as youthful as the twins.

Does it look like I have a wrinkling problem, Atam?

Before Atam could get the pair in any more trouble, Terra covered his mouth, Not at all! In fact, you look amazing-Incredible! Terra smiled nervously.

When Terra removed his hand from Atam’s mouth, it was more obvious that Atam was disgusted, If you kiss his ass any more you’ll get shit on your teeth.

At least he’s trying, Atam, Alchem shook his head, Why don’t you boys find something else to do? Eli and I will clean.

Is that so? Eli had a sweet and soft voice, almost melodic to the ears. No matter what he said, it seemed pleasant. He never spoke unless he felt it was vital to the conversation or the overall purpose of it.

Well I would hope so, Alchem turned to Eli.

"As much as I’d love to help, I’m sure Wren needs me back at the castle," Eli shrugged. Due to being the Sun King’s right hand man, Eli always had an excuse. It was a known fact that Eli used excuses but no one had the energy to argue with a cold cat.

Well then safe travels, Alchem didn’t speak more than he had to, generally he was more fond of the misunderstood Moon King rather than the celebrated Sun King. Without another word, Eli disappeared into the dark night, without a single shadow under the moonlight or a sound from the dry grass.

Matter of fact, why don’t you clean up Atam?

Atam’s jaw dropped, "Me? But Terra was here too!"

But I know damn well Terra only tagged along because you’re his brother.

Atam scoffed and crossed his arms but Terra was indifferent. Well, he tried to be but he could never keep his feelings in check, especially around his intimidating twin.

It’s okay, Alchem. I’ll help him.

Terra, you’re a saint, y’know that?

Atmosphere grumbled, What does that make me then?

A nightmare.

Eli made his way through the thick shrubbery in the cloak of the thick night air, hot and humid. As he neared the river, the fog thickened, the dew gathered on his skin. Crickets chimed as the witching hour struck. What are you up to, kitty cat? Eli paused in his steps and turned to the familiar voice. He saw only a tall silhouette between the trees.

Gray, Eli chuckled but almost growled between his words, "Lovely to see you. What are you up to?"

As the man known as Gray, came into view and Eli could see him point at the sky, In case you haven’t noticed, it’s nighttime. Gray was pale under the violet sky, splattered my glimmery blots of yellow and white. His dark hair and sharp features could be defined as brooding. Even in the fog, Eli could identify his signature dark grey eyes, decorated with black speckles.

Eli smiled, Ah yes, the Moon King has come in the darkness of night. Aren’t you a bad omen of sorts, soul keeper? Killer?

Gray looked away as if there was a foul stench traveling with Eli’s harsh words, It’s all a matter of the natural order, Eli. People are meant to die.

What a terrible thing to say. No wonder the whole kingdom doesn’t want to be around you. Of course, you know nothing about death, being immortal and all.

"I didn’t ask for this."

"Oh but you didn’t have to. A killer is born a killer. That is the natural order, Grave."

Gray cleared his throat, "Don’t you know better than to use my full name, Felis?"

Eli shrugged and turned to travel in his original destination, There are a lot of things I know better than to do. Using your name is not one of them. Without another word, once again, Eli disappeared without a trace.

It wasn’t long until Eli reached the glowing kingdom of the sun god. It had a goldish shine, emanating glory. Casually, Felis entered the kingdom, making his way to the king’s quarters where Wren awaited him. Everyday, a few hours before dawn, Wren awakened to prepare for dawn amongst other events, others unholier than said action.

Wren, tell me why you needed me here so early.

You’re quite demanding for a servant, Wren smiled and chuckled. Unlike Eli, Wren had a genuine smile that was as pure as sunshine.

Well I’d like to understand the man I serve.

Wren accepted the explanation and continued to get ready, I need help setting up breakfast and the village. There’s something I need to do.

Sneaking off during the witching hour? Very unlike you.

Only if you don’t know me at all, Wren winked and then put on a dark cloak.

Will you do that for me? Eli nodded. With that, Wren made his way out of the kingdom walls and to the river, at the boundary of the contrasting kingdoms. The river flowed, cool and clear, wearing away at the bank and whisking away the rocks. The bubbling and clashing of the rushing water harmonized with the sound of the fauna. For a while, he stared at the waters, contemplating the morals of his behavior. The sins and betrayal he committed in the dark only to linger in the shadows of early morning. He heard rustling in the trees, the trees blowing softly with the wind. The breeze tugged desperately at his cloak. He searches but for what?

A figure walked into the natural blue light of the water.

The sun king out at night, during the witching hour no less. What a peculiar sight to see.

Wren smiled at the voice, You must be a lucky girl.

She smiled back, I know I am.

He pulled her in for a kiss.

As they kissed, she lowered his hood to get a better look at his face.

She pressed her forehead to his, Does anyone know you’re here?

He shook his head, making her smile, What about you? Is your father around?

She looked off to the right, where the moon kingdom began, He hasn’t got a clue. She looked back at him and giggled, We’re alone.

Aren’t we usually? He placed his hands on her hips.

Only when it counts, she answered.

Her comment made him raise a brow, Are you saying it counts now?

Her hands landed on his cheeks, framing the face of her lover, In all my 230 years of life, my best moments are shared with you.

You are quite the traitor huh?

She shook her head but her smile had already stained her face, You’re not my father’s enemy. There’s peace between the kingdoms. I love my father but I could never betray my love for you. Why do you think I’m here now?

Hmm, maybe to admire the river.

She scoffed, "I traveled all the way here for the river?’

Wren shrugged, Well Fate, there’s nothing as beautiful as the boundary.

Fate shook her head again, No, what’s beautiful is no boundary. In all my life I’ve never understood all this separation bullshit.

Fay don’t be like that-

No, I will be like that, she responded tersely, Wren, you have to understand how difficult it is for me to lie to my father, to sneak to the boundary before dawn, to wonder if I will have to pick you or my father. Why can’t you two get along?

Because your father is envious, Fate. He’s jealous of my popularity, he’s jealous I have everything. He’s jealous of my power. I can’t blame him but that’s what divides us. The people. The people just seem to like me better. She looked at him with her gray eyes. Her long black hair was tied back into a braid. She was less pale than her father, with her pink undertones in comparison to his blue ones.

"What the people think is wrong though. My father isn’t evil. I’ve seen a different side of him. He is warm, tender, and kind. Everyone is so cruel. That’s what makes him...defensive. Especially Eli. He’s got quite the mouth on him. Why do you never stand up for the man that works alongside you, huh? You and my father need each other."

Your father needs nothing but a backbone and a reality check.

A swift slap landed on his cheek, first burning the surface, then seeping into his skin with a stinging sensation. "Don’t you ever speak of my father that way. He is not his reputation and he’s definitely not who you think he is." Her eyelids twitched as she tried not to cry. He looked at her with his dark, warm eyes.

He was apologetic and regretful, I-I’m sorry, I don’t know where that came from. He did, he just wouldn’t admit it, not even to himself.

Yeah well you should be, her tone was blunt with underlying pain.

Fay-

Don’t, her eyes closed, she didn’t want to look at him. Yet, it’s not out of disgust, she was just attempting to defend herself.

Fate, I didn’t mean it-

Then why did you say it? she opened her eyes, without falter, her eyes caught his.

Because I can be so lost in myself sometimes, I didn’t realize what I’m saying.

Freudian slip?

No! More like a sort of smart-ass mechanism.

Yeah for a smart ass, it was stupid of you to bad-mouth my father.

Wren nodded, having no reason to disagree, I know, I know. Fate sighed and moved closer to him again.

If I could take it back, I would.

This time, Fate was the one that nodded, I know. You’re always so lively and polite and generous. Maybe this whole sneaking around thing is starting to impact you too. Momentarily, her jaw clenched.

Maybe it is. We’ve been doing this for a long time, Fay. I just-The lying, it’s slowly but gradually chipping away at my sanity. I hate that I’m supposed to be ashamed of loving you.

But you’re not ashamed...right?

What? No, god no. Gently, he pulled her close to him, holding her firmly in his arms. Wren continued I’ve never been ashamed nor will I ever be. We’re not being selfish by staying together, we’re trying to spare the two kingdoms a war.

Yeah well it seems like we’re fighting our own battles.

Ebbsen sat on the boulders; the boulders that rested by the shore and sliced through even the thickest of waves. His turquoise skin was almost pearlescent, shifting between cool colors and silver. Scales lined his biceps and calves, his eyes were a beautiful deep violet. Although gorgeous and congruous with the environment, he was perturbed.

You look a lot like a fish out of water.

Ebbsen turned his head only to have fear plague his peaceful eyes, What do you want, Atmosphere?

Mm, a romantic walk on the beach with you of course. Word is you’re quite the...catch. Atmosphere smirked at his own play-on words. Why would I do any such thing with you?

Will it change your mind if I say ‘please’?

Doubtful.

Ouch, swim like a dolphin but sting like a jellyfish. Ebbsen looked down, If you don’t mind, I’m tired of your fish references. What do you want? Atam grew a shiesty grin, "I was hoping you could bring in another shipment, if you will?"

Ebbsen sat up, Now?

I mean, unless you want your sister-

Alright! Fine…

The grin remained as Atam got up to walk away, Meet me by the docks. As he walked past Ebbsen, he made one last pun. Just to salt the wound.

You and your sister...like fish on a hook.

CHAPTER 2

T he Sun rose, burning the hills a blood orange, the cool breeze rustling the frail grass. The chirping of the various birds of the region filled the empty spaces of an otherwise quiet morning. Wren was on the balcony of the highest tower, admiring his flawless work and feeling the lingering bliss from the earlier events. Fate had yet to arrive home.

Where is my daughter? Gray’s voice boomed. All morning, he was searching for his daughter Fate, wondering what would keep the moon princess out after dawn. The palace was dark. The decor was almost black with faint hues of purple and blue but embellished with silver accents. Gray stood in the lounge alongside Lucia, the queen of both heaven and hell, and Ember, both her servant and friend. How should I know, Gray? I have eyes all around but there are still secrets I have yet to uncover. You do understand I’m not a goddess, yes? Gray looked over at her with his steel gray eyes. His eyes were barely visible under his bangs which had a slight gap in them to the right of his face. I understand that, Lucia. But I fear my daughter might be hurt. She’s all I have, y’know? he looked down. Lucia knew exactly what he meant. Everyone shunned Gray due to his position as the keeper of souls. There were very few people that understood the importance of his duty and appreciated his strength. Lucia placed a hand on Gray’s back. Luckily, she was tall for a woman. Her colorful hazel eyes caught his monotone yet lively eyes. Her full lips formed a smile, She’ll be fine, Gray. She’s a strong girl, we both know this. If she was hurt, we would have known by now.

The palace doors opened and shut. Fate scurried to the stairs, as if in an attempt to escape. Fate! Fate stopped in her tracks at the sound of her father’s voice and his familiar tone. He was not happy. D-Dad, you’re awake.

You expect me to sleep when my daughter has disappeared? Without a trace, no less? Where have you been? Fate paused, knowing it would be difficult for her father to hear the truth. I was down by the river-

The boundary? Fate, why are you by the boundary at dawn? She didn’t have an excuse. Usually her and Gray would be home by dawn, well as far as her father was concerned, she would be home...at some point I’m sorry. She muttered as Gray’s gaze softened, Fate, don’t scare me like that.

I didn’t mean to. I just stayed out a little late. I’m a woman now, Dad. I’m not a baby anymore, Fate sighed.

I know that Fate. Trust me, I know it all too well. Just, go get some rest, alright? He kissed her temple and she walked away. Lucia was the first one to break the silence.

She’s right y’know? Lucia neared him, her long white gown brushing the marble floors. White always matched her hair and the gold layer of the gown complimented her dark cocoa skin. Gray just looked at her. She’s not a child anymore. She can protect herself now.

Does she not need me anymore?

Lucia shook her head, Of course she still needs you, Gray. Just because she’s a woman doesn’t mean she’s not your daughter anymore. Gray nodded gently before looking down, I just want her to talk to me again. Confide in me like she used to. Lucia sighed, the golden yellow centers of her iris dispersed. The truth will come out eventually. There is a lot of uncertainty in the world, but the truth coming out is inevitable.

If I didn’t know any better, I’d mistake you for a mad scientist. But you’re just mad, Eli snickered as he laid on a maroon chaise lounge. Alchem’s dark eyes met his and he laughed gently, You always have something to say, don’t you Felis? Eli’s slick tail swayed back and forth, "It’s not that, just when I have the right words. That’s when I speak. Alchem sprinkled in a fine yellow powder, earth fairy pixie dust, into his small vat of liquid. Then you must always have the right words." He didn’t move his eyes from the container. It was filled with the juice of a green aqua plant, a fruit filled with blue fresh water inside a shell and an outer green peel. He also mixed in hydra blood and earth fairy pollen. That was only so far.

Eli smirked at Alchem before looking away, I’d think by now you’d know me well enough to have established that long ago. Alchem smiled and shook his head, Sometimes I think I don’t know you at all. His thin black braids were tied back into a thick ponytail. A braid or two would escape as he was mixing. Eli started to play with his black tail, Don’t feel bad Alchem. You know enough about me. A cat’s got to have his secrets y’know. He chuckled along with Alchem. Eli’s chuckle was softer and more subtle while Alchem had a loud and pleasant laugh, deep in tone but bright in expression. Then what do wizards have, my feline friend? Alchem started to stir. They have secrets too. Except a cat keeps them in the deep folds of their brain. Alchem raised a brow at Eli. He continued, Wizards keep them in spellbooks.

Is that so? At the moment, that was all Alchem thought to say. Eli got up from the couch in one swift movement and started admiring the shelves filled with ingredients. Of course it’s true. Have I ever lied to you before.

Not that I know of. But a good liar doesn’t let the victim know they’re lying. And well I, I can never understand you anyway, Eli turned to Alchem as he elaborated, It’s true. You told me yourself. Cat’s must have their secrets. For years we’ve been the best of friends and you still keep things from me. Alchem shook his head.

Well if you must know a secret of mine, I secretly smell people sometimes to see if I like them or not.

Alchem looked at him with furrowed brows and Eli just shrugged, When you’re raised by wolves, you learn a thing or two. Alchem gave him a smile before adding aqua fruit zest, What else have you picked up? Eli smirked, still loitering around the hut.

I learned how to hunt.

That comment certainly caught Alchem’s attention, I’m surprised. Eli abruptly turned his head to look at the wizard, Why? Because I’m a ‘pussy boy’? Eli’s saturated orange and green eyes burned through Alchem’s. Sometimes the fact that Eli had complete heterochromia made his stare all that more intense.

What? No, because I’ve never seen you do much more than serve the king and lounge about. You know better than to assume I think such foolish things. Eli was standing taller, chest subtly puffed. Yeah well one should never let their guard down. At this point, Alchem just hummed in response. He wore a long skirt, covered in dark colored shapes and symbols. It blew with the wind as smoke rose suddenly from the elixir. Speaking of, what is that? Planning on poisoning me? Eli joked, which he didn’t usually do unless it was more offensive than funny. Alchem shook his head, Just plant fertilizer. It helps the plants grow ten times faster. Besides, we’ve already established you don’t let your guard down. Hypothetically speaking, if I did poison you, you have multiple lives. Haven’t you got plenty left? Alchem smiled at Eli but only received a cold gaze in response. "Well, hypothetically speaking, if I did have plenty of lives left, there’s no use in wasting any. Having multiple lives is just like being immortal. It’s difficult to die but that doesn’t mean someone won’t find a way around it. Yes?"

I suppose-

You would know all about the slippery slope of mortality, wouldn’t you? Eli’s words stung. His words came