Kate sat still as she was filled with protest and protective. These three were her family yet her father always had to be in control. When he finished speaking she squeezed Jaspers hand reassuringly and tensed.<br/>"Papa, Your intentions are good. This is not the time. She looked at Abby with a scowl and her arms crossed. The look on her face reminded her of her first meeting. She knew Abby was free and she chose to remain because of Jasper's situation. Kate was in love with the beautiful Savannah cat. Jasper was not cold-hearted or bloodthirsty. Kate kept Jasper calm and made sure he would not be in a position to fight. He fought his demons not kneel before her father.<br/>Kate mind spoke to Jasper, "<span style="font-style: italic">Your doing well, stay seated. I do not want you signing anything than your own free will. Not because Father is giving you an order. I will not have you on display before this or any court ever.</span>"<br/><br/>The mage glanced at Mat fidgeting with his empty mug as his eye could not focus on her father.<br/><br/>Kate held Jasper's hand tighter, "Papa, your intentions are well and good. What you are asking is more than Mat and Jasper can grasp right now. You are rushing this. Mat has no idea what freedom means. Jasper wants to be free but is fighting to unlearn all that he was. Serving you, serving King Atrius is more of the same. Following orders and commands. Give them the documents to sign so on paper they are free. Allow them time to acclimate and meet others."<br/><br/>The mage watched her father move closer to the middle of the room. All eye were on her. She stood up from the bench, "I refuse to have them on display at court. They will go as family members. As for eating at the King's dining hall, the decision is theirs. I have no problem with Abby and Mat staying in the suite. Jasper taking his place as my protector in the hall among the noble guards.<br/>Papa, it is late let them sleep on this and experience WinterFest without pressure as I promised."<br/><br/>Lyons lowered his pipe and arched a brow at Kate, "You promised?"<br/><br/>Kate put her arm around Jasper, "Yes. I promised them fun and no work until the Holiday is over. Mat, baking cookies and tree decorating are fun. You are making good memories. Don't ruin this holiday. Please, no now"<br/><br/>Lord Lyons tossed ashes from his pipe into the fire and looked at the dying embers, "You have grown into your Mother, Kate, alright you may keep your promise. Till the end of the holiday. They still go with us to the King's palace for your performance and they will stay with Ann. Jasper is your protector and will be vigilant."<br/><br/>Kate grinned and rubbed Jasper's back, "He will be armed to his teeth and remain hidden."<br/><br/>Lions took a few paces forward, "Do any of you have anything to say before going to bed?"