Rat King

In the intricate subculture of Namor's rat handlers, one title is coveted above all others: the Rat King. Despite its seemingly regal connotations, the title of Rat King is not something anyone can claim; it is a title bestowed by the community, earned through years of dedication, skill, and a unique understanding of the city's vermin and the intricate labyrinth they traverse.

Qualifications

The Rat King is an informal title, yet it carries great respect and reverence among Namor's rat handlers. It denotes the handler's deep connection to their rats, their understanding of the city's alleyways, sewers, and hidden passages, and their ability to train their rats to navigate these complex routes with uncanny precision.
Earning the title of Rat King is a feat that may take decades. It requires not just a handler's ability to train rats effectively, but also their intuition to understand the rats' behavior, their patience, and their resilience in facing the challenges and hazards of the city's underbelly. The Rat King is often a person of exceptional wisdom and resourcefulness, traits that are highly valued in the rat-handling community.

Appointment

Unlike traditional monarchies, there is no coronation ceremony or formal proclamation. Instead, the title of Rat King is conferred when the majority of the rat handling community starts referring to an individual by that title. It is a kind of communal acknowledgement of a handler's superior skills, reputation, and contribution to the community. The process is organic and informal, yet it carries a significant weight of tradition and recognition.

False Claimants

As the Rat King title is highly respected, it's not uncommon for newcomers or ambitious handlers to claim the title. However, these premature assertions are generally met with derision and scorn by the seasoned handlers. The wisdom of the experienced handlers usually sees through such pretensions. Once the community collectively recognizes the new Rat King, any disagreement or dispute is seen as a grave disrespect to the rat-handling community's traditions and may lead to ostracization.

Cultural Significance

The title of the Rat King goes beyond just handling rats; it is a symbol of survival, cunning, and the ability to thrive in the toughest conditions. The Rat King is a symbol of the city itself - persevering, adaptable, and ever-evolving. They represent the spirit of Namor and its denizens, illustrating the city's resilience and determination to thrive, no matter the odds.

Type

Royalty, Honorific / Ceremonial