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Not entirely thrilled about those short sub-entries, but it\'s less of a formatting mess than the original, especially minus the Alternate Character Interpretation natter.
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* Rana Sanga is this to Damodara in BelisariusSeries. Aide is this to Belisarius. Irene is not only Kungas' ChessmasterSidekick she is his [[HotConsort wife]].
** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damodara's muscleman while also happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] but it is Narses who is his main ChessmasterSidekick.
** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damodara's muscleman while also happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] but it is Narses who is his main ChessmasterSidekick.
to:
* From the ''Literature/BelisariusSeries'':
** Rana Sanga is this toDamodara in BelisariusSeries. Damodara.
** Aide is this toBelisarius. Belisarius.
** Irene is not only Kungas' ChessmasterSidekick she is his [[HotConsortwife]].
** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damodara's muscleman while also happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] but it is Narses who is his main ChessmasterSidekick.wife]].
** Rana Sanga is this to
** Aide is this to
** Irene is not only Kungas' ChessmasterSidekick she is his [[HotConsort
** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damodara's muscleman while also happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] but it is Narses who is his main ChessmasterSidekick.
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-->--'''Otto von Bismarck'''
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* The player character(s) of the twelfth and thirteenth ''FireEmblem'' games serve as the strategist for the army and are fiercely loyal to the Lords.
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* {{Batman}} to {{Superman}} in the JusticeLeague. Superman's still stronger, faster, tougher, more intelligent, more durable, just as determined and a better leader but Batman is capable of taking down pretty much anybody on Earth, if need be.
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* {{Batman}} Franchise/{{Batman}} to {{Superman}} Franchise/{{Superman}} in the JusticeLeague. Superman's still stronger, faster, tougher, more intelligent, more durable, just as determined and a better leader but Batman is capable of taking down pretty much anybody on Earth, if need be.
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* PorkyPig when he's the second-in-command to DaffyDuck.
* Cornfed is this to {{Duckman}}.
* Cornfed is this to {{Duckman}}.
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* ''Manga/OuranHighSchoolHostClub'': Kyouya is this for {{idiot hero}} Tamaki. See MagnificentBastard.
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[[folder:Television]]
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* ''TheWorldEndsWithYou'' has Sanae Hanekoma, who wins with the LastPlanStanding and is suspected by precisely no one. While the heroes are focused on defeating the Conductor, and, later, the Composer, Hanekoma skips town before the happy ending, only to appear next to the Composer in the last shot. The NewGamePlus makes the relationship between the two more obvious, along with going into more detail regarding Hanekoma's decision to turn his skills against the designated chessmaster. [[GambitPileup It's one of those games]].
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* Similarly, MercedesLackey's novel ''[[ElementalMasters Reserved For The Cat]]'' is based off of the fairy tale.
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* Similarly, MercedesLackey's Creator/MercedesLackey's novel ''[[ElementalMasters ''[[Literature/ElementalMasters Reserved For The Cat]]'' is based off of the fairy tale.
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* [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lin_Biao Lin Biao]] was this to Mao Zedong, and for a time was considered the heir apparent to the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party. Unfortunately he sealed his own fate when he leveraged his popular support and respect within the party to became TheStarscream.
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* [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lin_Biao Lin Biao]] was this to Mao Zedong, and for a time was considered the heir apparent to the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party. Unfortunately he sealed his own fate when he leveraged his popular support and respect within the party to became TheStarscream. Or so the official Chinese version says; in the West it's widely believed that at least parts of the official story are lies.
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* In ''TheChathrandVoyages'', {{Evil Overlord}}s seem to pick these up:
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* In ''TheChathrandVoyages'', ''Literature/TheChathrandVoyages'', {{Evil Overlord}}s seem to pick these up:
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* In ''DragonAge: Origins'', if you want Alistair on the throne you pretty much have to play this. Against his resistance every step of the way. Or, if you're a Human Noble, you may just [[ManipulativeBastard take it yourself]].
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* In ''DragonAge: Origins'', ''VideoGame/DragonAgeOrigins'', if you want Alistair on the throne you pretty much have to play this. Against his resistance every step of the way. Or, if you're a Human Noble, you may just [[ManipulativeBastard take it yourself]].
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* ''FullmetalAlchemist'' features Maes Hughes filling this role to Roy Mustang's {{Badass}} [[TheStrategist Strategist]]. Roy Mustang even lampshades this in the aftermath of [[spoiler:Hughes's funeral]].
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* ''FullmetalAlchemist'' ''Manga/FullmetalAlchemist'' features Maes Hughes filling this role to Roy Mustang's {{Badass}} [[TheStrategist Strategist]]. Roy Mustang even lampshades this in the aftermath of [[spoiler:Hughes's funeral]].
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* In ''TheChathrandVoyages'', {{Evil Overlord}}s seem to pick these up:
** [[TheEmperor Magad V]], ruler of Arqual, seldom appears on page but is basically characterized as a spoilt, petty, grasping manchild with way too much power. His spymaster and chief assassin (and the real power behind the throne), Sandor Ott, is a {{Chessmaster}} and MagnificentBastard ''par excellence''. Fortunately for Magad, Ott's ''other'' defining feature is his fanatical [[UndyingLoyalty Arquali patriotism]]. Magad is basically content to let Ott do all the work while he gets all the perks.
** [[GodEmperor The Shaggat Ness]], ruler of a splinter group of [[ProudWarriorRace the Mzithrin]] has [[AGodAmI a massive god complex]] and is surprisingly charismatic when it comes to convincing others of his divinity, but is an AxCrazy berserker whose reaction to every problem is basically "hit it harder". Luckily, he's got [[EvilSorcerer Arunis]] working his butt off behind the scenes to make sure he comes to TakeOverTheWorld. [[spoiler: Subverted in that Arunis actually cares not one whit for the Shaggat, despite what the Shaggat believes. Arunis is using him to kickstart the apocalypse]].
** [[TheEmperor Magad V]], ruler of Arqual, seldom appears on page but is basically characterized as a spoilt, petty, grasping manchild with way too much power. His spymaster and chief assassin (and the real power behind the throne), Sandor Ott, is a {{Chessmaster}} and MagnificentBastard ''par excellence''. Fortunately for Magad, Ott's ''other'' defining feature is his fanatical [[UndyingLoyalty Arquali patriotism]]. Magad is basically content to let Ott do all the work while he gets all the perks.
** [[GodEmperor The Shaggat Ness]], ruler of a splinter group of [[ProudWarriorRace the Mzithrin]] has [[AGodAmI a massive god complex]] and is surprisingly charismatic when it comes to convincing others of his divinity, but is an AxCrazy berserker whose reaction to every problem is basically "hit it harder". Luckily, he's got [[EvilSorcerer Arunis]] working his butt off behind the scenes to make sure he comes to TakeOverTheWorld. [[spoiler: Subverted in that Arunis actually cares not one whit for the Shaggat, despite what the Shaggat believes. Arunis is using him to kickstart the apocalypse]].
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* ''TortureGarden'' featured a variation on the Puss in Boots theme. The twist? The cat was a demon that needed to be [[HumanResources fed human heads]] to make his master rich.
* Alas, Puss in Boots from the second and third ''WesternAnimation/{{Shrek}}'' movies is not, in fact, a Puss in Boots.
** He is an intellectual badass and excellent fencer who remains fiercely loyal to Shrek, he just doesn't use any of his skills to set Shrek up in any position of power, probably because Shrek [[IJustWantToBeNormal isn't interested in ruling anyway]] and has an iron-clad legitimate claim in any case.
* Alas, Puss in Boots from the second and third ''WesternAnimation/{{Shrek}}'' movies is not, in fact, a Puss in Boots.
** He is an intellectual badass and excellent fencer who remains fiercely loyal to Shrek, he just doesn't use any of his skills to set Shrek up in any position of power, probably because Shrek [[IJustWantToBeNormal isn't interested in ruling anyway]] and has an iron-clad legitimate claim in any case.
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* ''TortureGarden'' featured a variation on the Puss in Boots theme. The twist? The cat was a demon that needed to be [[HumanResources fed human heads]] to make his master rich.
* Alas, Puss in Boots from the second and third ''WesternAnimation/{{Shrek}}'' movies is not, in fact, a Puss in Boots.
** He is an intellectual badass and excellent fencer who remains fiercely loyal to Shrek, he just doesn't use any of his skills to set Shrek up in any position of power, probably because Shrek [[IJustWantToBeNormal isn't interested in ruling anyway]] and has an iron-clad legitimate claim in any case.
rich.
* Alas, Puss in Boots from the second and third ''WesternAnimation/{{Shrek}}'' movies is not, in fact, a Puss in Boots.
** He is an intellectual badass and excellent fencer who remains fiercely loyal to Shrek, he just doesn't use any of his skills to set Shrek up in any position of power, probably because Shrek [[IJustWantToBeNormal isn't interested in ruling anyway]] and has an iron-clad legitimate claim in any case.
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* Before the prequels revealed the utter depth and breadth of Palpatine's EvilPlan, [[TheThrawnTrilogy Grand Admiral Thrawn]] was often seen this way by fans. Thrawn was loyal to the Emperor, and seemed to be a much better plotter.
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* Before the ''StarWars'' prequels revealed the utter depth and breadth of Palpatine's EvilPlan, [[TheThrawnTrilogy Grand Admiral Thrawn]] was often seen this way by fans. Thrawn was loyal to the Emperor, and seemed to be a much better plotter.
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* The Marquis de Carabas - aptly named for the alias Puss In Boots comes up with for his master in the fairy tale - serves as a [[spoiler: heroic]] version of this in ''{{Neverwhere}}''.
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* Arguably, [[TheTrickster Loki]] from NorseMythology. Of course Odin was [[MagnificentBastard no slouch himself]] but tended to [[BrilliantButLazy not bother with anything outside the battlefield]] and send Loki out to solve all his mundane problems. [[ThePrankster Which Loki]] [[LovableTraitor tended to]] [[EpicFail cause anyway]] and only escape everything with even more treasure for the gods 'cause of his SpannerInTheWorks status.
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* Arguably, [[TheTrickster Loki]] from NorseMythology. Of course Odin was [[MagnificentBastard no slouch himself]] but tended to [[BrilliantButLazy not bother with anything outside the battlefield]] and send Loki out to solve all his mundane problems. [[ThePrankster Which Loki]] [[LovableTraitor tended to]] [[EpicFail cause anyway]] and only escape everything with even more treasure for the gods 'cause of his SpannerInTheWorks status.
status. This was, of course, before Loki became a [[FaceHeelTurn full-on villain]] and murdered Baldur.
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** Fits better still with the [[Film/StarTrek 2009 reboot]], as Kirk has yet to develop his legendary leadership abilities (or for that matter much basic competence) while Spock is easily the most competent officer all around aboard the ''Enterprise''.
* [[TheHumphrey Sir Humphrey Appleby]] from ''YesMinister'' occasionally serves this function for Jim Hacker (when he isn't [[SmugSnake secretly undermining him]]).
* Barney from Series/HowIMetYourMother, though his schemes mainly involve getting Ted laid.
** Mainly '''Ted''' getting laid?
*** [[RunningGag "Haaave you met Ted?"]]
* [[TheHumphrey Sir Humphrey Appleby]] from ''YesMinister'' occasionally serves this function for Jim Hacker (when he isn't [[SmugSnake secretly undermining him]]).
* Barney from Series/HowIMetYourMother, though his schemes mainly involve getting Ted laid.
** Mainly '''Ted''' getting laid?
*** [[RunningGag "Haaave you met Ted?"]]
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** Fits better still with the [[Film/StarTrek 2009 reboot]], as Kirk has yet to develop his legendary leadership abilities (or for that matter matter, much basic competence) while Spock is easily the most competent officer all around aboard the ''Enterprise''.
* [[TheHumphrey Sir Humphrey Appleby]] from ''YesMinister'' occasionally serves this function for Jim Hacker (when he isn't[[SmugSnake secretly undermining him]]).
him).
* Barney from Series/HowIMetYourMother, though his schemes mainly involve getting Ted (and himself) laid.
** Mainly '''Ted''' getting laid?
***--> [[RunningGag "Haaave you met Ted?"]]
* [[TheHumphrey Sir Humphrey Appleby]] from ''YesMinister'' occasionally serves this function for Jim Hacker (when he isn't
* Barney from Series/HowIMetYourMother, though his schemes mainly involve getting Ted (and himself) laid.
***
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\"Cos\" was confusing. Hopefully \"\'cause\" will be less confusing, while maintaining the original slang aspect.
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* Arguably, [[TheTrickster Loki]] from NorseMythology. Of course Odin was [[MagnificentBastard no slouch himself]] but tended to [[BrilliantButLazy not bother with anything outside the battlefield]] and send Loki out to solve all his mundane problems. [[ThePrankster Which Loki]] [[LovableTraitor tended to]] [[EpicFail cause anyway]] and only escape everything with even more treasure for the gods cos of his SpannerInTheWorks status.
to:
* Arguably, [[TheTrickster Loki]] from NorseMythology. Of course Odin was [[MagnificentBastard no slouch himself]] but tended to [[BrilliantButLazy not bother with anything outside the battlefield]] and send Loki out to solve all his mundane problems. [[ThePrankster Which Loki]] [[LovableTraitor tended to]] [[EpicFail cause anyway]] and only escape everything with even more treasure for the gods cos 'cause of his SpannerInTheWorks status.
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** Appears in the Discworld novel ''Discworld/{{Pyramids}}'', in which the BigBad may or may not be stuck in a StableTimeLoop and have been "advisor" to the ''entire'' royal family.
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** Appears in the Discworld novel ''Discworld/{{Pyramids}}'', in which the BigBad may or may not be stuck in a StableTimeLoop and have been "advisor" to the ''entire'' royal family. As in, since it was founded millennia ago.
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I\'ve seen a lot of old trope names in trope entries, but this page turned it into an art!
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* In ''LegendOfGalacticHeroes'', Kircheis, [[spoiler: and later, Hilda]] serve as Reinhart's Puss in Boots: both have Reinhart's trust, and both save his life [[spoiler: Hilda manage to OutGambit Yang, who just managed to OutGambit Reinhart: [[CrowningMomentOfAwesome Demonstrating]] that she is the smartest Chessmaster in a series [[GambitPileup full of them]], way to go, Fraulein]]
** Then, Yang is a subversion of this trope: [[spoiler: He never wanted to be more than the Puss in boots of the Alliance, but its inept and corrupted politicians, fearing his popularity, and unable to see the man's selflessness, never believed he was content with his role and kept triying to constrain him, causing their own doom]]
** Then, Yang is a subversion of this trope: [[spoiler: He never wanted to be more than the Puss in boots of the Alliance, but its inept and corrupted politicians, fearing his popularity, and unable to see the man's selflessness, never believed he was content with his role and kept triying to constrain him, causing their own doom]]
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* In ''LegendOfGalacticHeroes'', Kircheis, [[spoiler: and later, Hilda]] serve as Reinhart's Puss in Boots: Chessmaster Sidekick: both have Reinhart's trust, and both save his life [[spoiler: Hilda manage to OutGambit Yang, who just managed to OutGambit Reinhart: [[CrowningMomentOfAwesome Demonstrating]] that she is the smartest Chessmaster in a series [[GambitPileup full of them]], way to go, Fraulein]]
** Then, Yang is a subversion of this trope: [[spoiler: He never wanted to be more than thePuss in boots Chessmaster Sidekick of the Alliance, but its inept and corrupted politicians, fearing his popularity, and unable to see the man's selflessness, never believed he was content with his role and kept triying to constrain him, causing their own doom]]
** Then, Yang is a subversion of this trope: [[spoiler: He never wanted to be more than the
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* In every ''{{Suikoden}}'' game, [[TheStrategist the tactician]] is the Puss in Boots of the Tenkai Star. In all games except the third, the hero leads the field operations while the Strategist devises the {{plans}}. In ''SuikodenV'', if the player gives the good answers in some [[DialogueTree discussions]], the Tactician will even claim that she is impressed by the intelligence and insight of the hero, which puts more emphasis on the fact that the Prince is not merely a figurehead.
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* In every ''{{Suikoden}}'' game, [[TheStrategist the tactician]] is the Puss in Boots Chessmaster Sidekick of the Tenkai Star. In all games except the third, the hero leads the field operations while the Strategist devises the {{plans}}. In ''SuikodenV'', if the player gives the good answers in some [[DialogueTree discussions]], the Tactician will even claim that she is impressed by the intelligence and insight of the hero, which puts more emphasis on the fact that the Prince is not merely a figurehead.
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* In ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyXII'', [[spoiler:Cid is the Puss in Boots of Vayne, while Venat is the Puss in Boots of Cid]]. On the other side, we have an aversion in [[spoiler:Vossler, who wants to be Ashe's Puss in Boots, but end up betraying her and loses his life for it]] and a subversion in [[spoiler:Larsa, who does not ''serve'' Ashe, but helps her regain her throne because he feels that an independent Dalmasca serves the interests of Archadia]].
to:
* In ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyXII'', [[spoiler:Cid is the Puss in Boots sidekick of Vayne, while Venat is the Puss in Boots sidekick of Cid]]. On the other side, we have an aversion in [[spoiler:Vossler, who wants to be Ashe's Puss in Boots, sidekick, but end up betraying her and loses his life for it]] and a subversion in [[spoiler:Larsa, who does not ''serve'' Ashe, but helps her regain her throne because he feels that an independent Dalmasca serves the interests of Archadia]].
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** Fits better still with the 2009 reboot, as Kirk has yet to develop his legendary leadership abilities (or for that matter much basic competence) while Spock is easily the most competent officer all around aboard the ''Enterprise''.
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** Fits better still with the [[Film/StarTrek 2009 reboot, reboot]], as Kirk has yet to develop his legendary leadership abilities (or for that matter much basic competence) while Spock is easily the most competent officer all around aboard the ''Enterprise''.
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I don\'t think Gin counts, because Aizen\'s the planner. Gin\'s just some of his muscle.
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* ''Manga/{{Bleach}}'' featured Gin who was absolutely loyal [[spoiler:to Rangiku. He spent a hundred years earning the trust of Aizen just to get revenge for one of Aizen's flunkies hurting her]].
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* Rana Sanga is this to Damadora in BelisariusSeries. Aide is this to Belisarius. Irene is not only Kungas' ChessmasterSidekick she is his [[HotConsort wife]].
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* Rana Sanga is this to Damadora Damodara in BelisariusSeries. Aide is this to Belisarius. Irene is not only Kungas' ChessmasterSidekick she is his [[HotConsort wife]].
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* Admiral Count Aral [[VorkosiganSaga Vorkosigan]] is this to Emperor Gregor Vorbarra, having served variously as His Regent, Prime Minister and Viceroy of 1/3rd of the Empire of Barrayar since Gregor was 6. Indeed, the case could be made that Aral had just as strong (if not a stronger) claim to the throne than the Vorbarras, and many urged him to declare himself Emperor and murder/execute young Gregor while he was Regent. [[TheCincinnatus He declined]]. A similar state of affairs can be said of Aral's son Miles to Gregor (although Miles would have far greater trouble holding the throne, considering his... deformities), Miles to Illyan, Illyan to Gregor, Illyan to Aral, Tung to Miles and Negri to Ezar.
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* Admiral Count Aral [[VorkosiganSaga Vorkosigan]] is this to Emperor Gregor Vorbarra, having served variously as His Regent, Prime Minister and Viceroy of 1/3rd of the Empire of Barrayar since Gregor was 6. Indeed, the case could be made that Aral had just as strong (if not a stronger) claim to the throne than the Vorbarras, and many urged him to declare himself Emperor and murder/execute young Gregor while he was Regent. [[TheCincinnatus [[{{Cincinnatus}} He declined]]. A similar state of affairs can be said of Aral's son Miles to Gregor (although Miles would have far greater trouble holding the throne, considering his... deformities), Miles to Illyan, Illyan to Gregor, Illyan to Aral, Tung to Miles and Negri to Ezar.
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Changed line(s) 49,50 (click to see context) from:
* The "Puss In Boots"-inspired Maurice of the Literature/{{Discworld}} novel ''The Amazing Maurice And His Educated Rodents'' combines this with JerkWithAHeartOfGold.
** Appears in the Discworld novel Pyramids, in which the BigBad may or may not be stuck in a StableTimeLoop and have been "advisor" to the ''entire'' royal family.
** Appears in the Discworld novel Pyramids, in which the BigBad may or may not be stuck in a StableTimeLoop and have been "advisor" to the ''entire'' royal family.
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* The "Puss In Boots"-inspired Maurice of the Literature/{{Discworld}} novel ''The ''Discworld/{{The Amazing Maurice And His Educated Rodents'' Rodents}}'' combines this with JerkWithAHeartOfGold.
** Appears in the Discworld novelPyramids, ''Discworld/{{Pyramids}}'', in which the BigBad may or may not be stuck in a StableTimeLoop and have been "advisor" to the ''entire'' royal family.
** Appears in the Discworld novel
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** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damadora's muscleman while also happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] but it is Narses who is his main ChessmasterSidekick.
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** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damadora's Damodara's muscleman while also happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] but it is Narses who is his main ChessmasterSidekick.
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Changed line(s) 48 (click to see context) from:
* Similarly, MercedesLackey's novel ''[[ElementalMasters Reserved For The Cat'' is based off of the fairy tale.
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* Similarly, MercedesLackey's novel ''[[ElementalMasters Reserved For The Cat'' Cat]]'' is based off of the fairy tale.
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* Similarly, MercedesLackey's novel ''Reserved For The Cat'' is based off of the fairy tale.
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* Similarly, MercedesLackey's novel ''Reserved ''[[ElementalMasters Reserved For The Cat'' is based off of the fairy tale.
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[[folder:Mythology]]
* Arguably, [[TheTrickster Loki]] from NorseMythology. Of course Odin was [[MagnificentBastard no slouch himself]] but tended to [[BrilliantButLazy not bother with anything outside the battlefield]] and send Loki out to solve all his mundane problems. [[ThePrankster Which Loki]] [[LovableTraitor tended to]] [[EpicFail cause anyway]] and only escape everything with even more treasure for the gods cos of his SpannerInTheWorks status.
[[/folder]]
* Arguably, [[TheTrickster Loki]] from NorseMythology. Of course Odin was [[MagnificentBastard no slouch himself]] but tended to [[BrilliantButLazy not bother with anything outside the battlefield]] and send Loki out to solve all his mundane problems. [[ThePrankster Which Loki]] [[LovableTraitor tended to]] [[EpicFail cause anyway]] and only escape everything with even more treasure for the gods cos of his SpannerInTheWorks status.
[[/folder]]
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Changed line(s) 56 (click to see context) from:
** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damadora's muscleman while also happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] while it is Narses who is his real ChessmasterSidekick.
to:
** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damadora's muscleman while also happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] while but it is Narses who is his real main ChessmasterSidekick.
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Changed line(s) 56 (click to see context) from:
** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damadora's muscleman while also happing to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] while it is Narses who is his real ChessmasterSidekick.
to:
** Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damadora's muscleman while also happing happening to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] while it is Narses who is his real ChessmasterSidekick.
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**Another interpretation is that Rana Sanga is Damadora's muscleman while also happing to [[GeniusBruiser know a thing or two about chessmastery]] while it is Narses who is his real ChessmasterSidekick.
**Belisarius himself is this to Justinian and Theodara.
**Belisarius himself is this to Justinian and Theodara.
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Hottip cleanup
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* General Blue of ''Manga/DragonBall'' is shown to be this to the Red Ribbon Army and Commander Red. Blue possessed superhuman endurance, superhuman strength, possibly superhuman speed, and PsychicPowers. Because of this, he could easily take over the Red Ribbon Army and dispose of Commander Red and Staff Officer Black if he so desired. Instead he follows their orders to the letter.[[hottip:*:Of course, had he lived long enough to learn about Commander Red planning to use the Dragonballs to make himself taller, he probably wouldn't mind partaking in a big TheDogBitesBack moment.]]
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* General Blue of ''Manga/DragonBall'' is shown to be this to the Red Ribbon Army and Commander Red. Blue possessed superhuman endurance, superhuman strength, possibly superhuman speed, and PsychicPowers. Because of this, he could easily take over the Red Ribbon Army and dispose of Commander Red and Staff Officer Black if he so desired. Instead he follows their orders to the letter.[[hottip:*:Of [[note]]Of course, had he lived long enough to learn about Commander Red planning to use the Dragonballs to make himself taller, he probably wouldn't mind partaking in a big TheDogBitesBack moment.]][[/note]]
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->''"It doesn't matter who's on the throne... I govern."''
-->--'''Otto von Bismarck'''
Sometimes a PoisonousFriend's chief weapons are {{plan}}s. Sometimes there's a [[TheManBehindTheMan Man Behind The]] MagnificentBastard. In those cases, the result is a ChessmasterSidekick.
The ChessmasterSidekick is a [[TheChessmaster master]] of these tactics who could easily overthrow his or her boss, but who remains [[TrueCompanions fiercely]] [[BloodBrothers loyal]] to said boss, for [[ThePowerOfFriendship diverse]] [[ThePowerOfLove reasons]]. This counts double if the master of the ChessmasterSidekick is a {{Badass}} or a [[TheStrategist Strategist]] in his own right. In this case, the ChessmasterSidekick is an [[InfinityPlusOneSword Infinity Plus One Tactician]].
If the boss is an [[ConservationOfCompetence idiot or otherwise incompetent]], this overlaps with HypercompetentSidekick. See also BattleButler, SidekickExMachina and GuardianEntity.
----
!!Examples:
[[foldercontrol]]
[[folder: Anime and Manga ]]
* In ''LegendOfGalacticHeroes'', Kircheis, [[spoiler: and later, Hilda]] serve as Reinhart's Puss in Boots: both have Reinhart's trust, and both save his life [[spoiler: Hilda manage to OutGambit Yang, who just managed to OutGambit Reinhart: [[CrowningMomentOfAwesome Demonstrating]] that she is the smartest Chessmaster in a series [[GambitPileup full of them]], way to go, Fraulein]]
** Then, Yang is a subversion of this trope: [[spoiler: He never wanted to be more than the Puss in boots of the Alliance, but its inept and corrupted politicians, fearing his popularity, and unable to see the man's selflessness, never believed he was content with his role and kept triying to constrain him, causing their own doom]]
* Askeladd to Canute in ''Manga/VinlandSaga''.
* ''FullmetalAlchemist'' features Maes Hughes filling this role to Roy Mustang's {{Badass}} [[TheStrategist Strategist]]. Roy Mustang even lampshades this in the aftermath of [[spoiler:Hughes's funeral]].
** The only character who could be said to supersede Hughes in that department would be Riza Hawkeye, Mustang's adjutant/bodyguard/secretary/oldest friend/second-in-command. Literally her entire life is dedicated to protecting Mustang and helping him reach his goals; her loyalty is so far beyond question that Mustang has appointed her to ''shoot him in the back'' if he ever strays from the righteous path.
* In ''Manga/YuYuHakusho'', [[TheChessmaster Kurama]] is much more cunning and ruthless than the other members of the Tantei (even [[TokenEvilTeamMate Hiei]] balks at the idea of facing off against him), but remains fiercely loyal to the team.
* ''Manga/{{Bleach}}'' featured Gin who was absolutely loyal [[spoiler:to Rangiku. He spent a hundred years earning the trust of Aizen just to get revenge for one of Aizen's flunkies hurting her]].
* [[AlternateCharacterInterpretation One interpretation]] of [[Anime/NeonGenesisEvangelion Yui Ikari]] is that she was one of these, since a flashback at the end of the series hints that she knew far more about what was going to happen than she let on.
* General Blue of ''Manga/DragonBall'' is shown to be this to the Red Ribbon Army and Commander Red. Blue possessed superhuman endurance, superhuman strength, possibly superhuman speed, and PsychicPowers. Because of this, he could easily take over the Red Ribbon Army and dispose of Commander Red and Staff Officer Black if he so desired. Instead he follows their orders to the letter.[[hottip:*:Of course, had he lived long enough to learn about Commander Red planning to use the Dragonballs to make himself taller, he probably wouldn't mind partaking in a big TheDogBitesBack moment.]]
* Head Maid (yes, [[EveryoneCallsHimBarkeep that's her name]]) in ''LightNovel/MaoyuuMaouYuusha'' is the right hand of the {{adorkable}} super-economist [[HollywoodNerd Demon Queen]]. Besides tending the house, being [[NinjaMaid her bodyguard]] and ''commanding her armies'' in her absence, she also makes sure she dresses like a [[MsFanservice proper]] EvilOverlord and gives her advice on her love life.
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Comic Books ]]
* {{Batman}} to {{Superman}} in the JusticeLeague. Superman's still stronger, faster, tougher, more intelligent, more durable, just as determined and a better leader but Batman is capable of taking down pretty much anybody on Earth, if need be.
** If he has time to prepare, of course.
*** [[CrazyPrepared He's had plenty of time.]]
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Film]]
* ''TortureGarden'' featured a variation on the Puss in Boots theme. The twist? The cat was a demon that needed to be [[HumanResources fed human heads]] to make his master rich.
* Alas, Puss in Boots from the second and third ''WesternAnimation/{{Shrek}}'' movies is not, in fact, a Puss in Boots.
** He is an intellectual badass and excellent fencer who remains fiercely loyal to Shrek, he just doesn't use any of his skills to set Shrek up in any position of power, probably because Shrek [[IJustWantToBeNormal isn't interested in ruling anyway]] and has an iron-clad legitimate claim in any case.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Literature]]
* The FairyTale "Literature/PussInBoots" is OlderThanSteam.
* Similarly, MercedesLackey's novel ''Reserved For The Cat'' is based off of the fairy tale.
* The "Puss In Boots"-inspired Maurice of the Literature/{{Discworld}} novel ''The Amazing Maurice And His Educated Rodents'' combines this with JerkWithAHeartOfGold.
** Appears in the Discworld novel Pyramids, in which the BigBad may or may not be stuck in a StableTimeLoop and have been "advisor" to the ''entire'' royal family.
* Capt. Dudley Smith from James Ellroy's ''L.A. Quartet'', and, of course, the motion picture ''LAConfidential'', is both a MagnificentBastard and a ChessmasterSidekick. He may not be the Chief of Police but he is both clever and manipulative, making the Los Angeles Police Department serve his ends.
* Before the prequels revealed the utter depth and breadth of Palpatine's EvilPlan, [[TheThrawnTrilogy Grand Admiral Thrawn]] was often seen this way by fans. Thrawn was loyal to the Emperor, and seemed to be a much better plotter.
** With the complete story of Palpatine's rise on the table, it was more like they were equals, but in different areas- Palpatine was the master of political and personal manipulations, while Thrawn was the master of military strategy.
* In Creator/IsaacAsimov's ''{{Foundation}}'' novels, Bel Riose apparently exemplifies this trait so thoroughly that his emperor, Cleon II, is later remembered merely as "Riose's Emperor." Much like the character's real-life inspiration, Belisarius, [[spoiler: this results in his recall.]] Unlike Belisarius, however, [[spoiler: Riose is executed for treason.]]
* Rana Sanga is this to Damadora in BelisariusSeries. Aide is this to Belisarius. Irene is not only Kungas' ChessmasterSidekick she is his [[HotConsort wife]].
* In the ''Literature/HarryPotter'' series, Snape is this for Dumbledore - and he'd be the HypercompetentSidekick, if not for the fact that Dumbledore is the most ridiculously powerful and cunning wizard alive. Of course, Dumbledore [[ManipulativeBastard manipulates]] Snape rather shamelessly, and Snape has his [[TheLostLenore own]] [[TheAtoner reasons]] for working for him, but they nonetheless seem to be friends.
* Admiral Count Aral [[VorkosiganSaga Vorkosigan]] is this to Emperor Gregor Vorbarra, having served variously as His Regent, Prime Minister and Viceroy of 1/3rd of the Empire of Barrayar since Gregor was 6. Indeed, the case could be made that Aral had just as strong (if not a stronger) claim to the throne than the Vorbarras, and many urged him to declare himself Emperor and murder/execute young Gregor while he was Regent. [[TheCincinnatus He declined]]. A similar state of affairs can be said of Aral's son Miles to Gregor (although Miles would have far greater trouble holding the throne, considering his... deformities), Miles to Illyan, Illyan to Gregor, Illyan to Aral, Tung to Miles and Negri to Ezar.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Television]]
* Noah Bennet, from ''Series/{{Heroes}}'', after the reveal that his {{Magnificent Bastard}}ry is to protect his daughter, Claire.
* This is arguably the role Spock plays in ''Series/StarTrekTheOriginalSeries''. While Kirk is shown to be a competent leader, Spock is physically stronger, more technically knowledgeable, and has telepathic abilities.
** Fits even better in the MirrorUniverse. Mirror Spock could easily take over Mirror Kirk's role as captain, but is content to stay as first officer as it means he's a lesser target for [[KlingonPromotion assassination]].
** Fits better still with the 2009 reboot, as Kirk has yet to develop his legendary leadership abilities (or for that matter much basic competence) while Spock is easily the most competent officer all around aboard the ''Enterprise''.
* [[TheHumphrey Sir Humphrey Appleby]] from ''YesMinister'' occasionally serves this function for Jim Hacker (when he isn't [[SmugSnake secretly undermining him]]).
* Barney from Series/HowIMetYourMother, though his schemes mainly involve getting Ted laid.
** Mainly '''Ted''' getting laid?
*** [[RunningGag "Haaave you met Ted?"]]
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Video Games ]]
* In every ''{{Suikoden}}'' game, [[TheStrategist the tactician]] is the Puss in Boots of the Tenkai Star. In all games except the third, the hero leads the field operations while the Strategist devises the {{plans}}. In ''SuikodenV'', if the player gives the good answers in some [[DialogueTree discussions]], the Tactician will even claim that she is impressed by the intelligence and insight of the hero, which puts more emphasis on the fact that the Prince is not merely a figurehead.
** Doesn't mean he's allowed to direct the plot any.
*** Then we enter into the metaphysical debate about whether or not the characters of video games are moving the plot while the player has no control over it.
*** Technically, you can at one point choose to defend your castle instead of taking the tactician's (and everyone else's) advice to evacuate. Doing so will result in losing one character forever, meaning no best ending.
**** [[VideoGame/MetalGearSolid Change that to whether the characters have any control over the plot, and somebody made a game about it.]]
**** Technically, [[AllThereInTheManual the game pretty much explains that almost everything is fated]], but that the heroes have the [[PowerOfFriendship power to change destiny in small ways through gathering all 108 stars]]. Considering that [[MultipleEndings this is the difference]] between a BittersweetEnding and a HappilyEverAfter ending, it can be somewhat satisfying. Especially in V, where it [[BodyguardCrush finally implies something going on between]] [[VictoriousChildHoodFriend the hero and his doting female bodyguard]].
* In ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyXII'', [[spoiler:Cid is the Puss in Boots of Vayne, while Venat is the Puss in Boots of Cid]]. On the other side, we have an aversion in [[spoiler:Vossler, who wants to be Ashe's Puss in Boots, but end up betraying her and loses his life for it]] and a subversion in [[spoiler:Larsa, who does not ''serve'' Ashe, but helps her regain her throne because he feels that an independent Dalmasca serves the interests of Archadia]].
* In ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVI'', Kefka reveals himself to be this to Emperor Gestahl. [[TheStarscream Or so it would seem.]]
* In ''DragonAge: Origins'', if you want Alistair on the throne you pretty much have to play this. Against his resistance every step of the way. Or, if you're a Human Noble, you may just [[ManipulativeBastard take it yourself]].
* In the SamAndMax games, Max is perfectly content to let Sam be in charge of their duo, despite Max gradually gaining more and more power, both political and supernatural.
* ''VideoGame/FalloutNewVegas'' has Yes Man, an A.I who is programmed to follow the orders of anyone who gives him orders and has masterminded a plan involving the usurping of [[TheChessmaster Mr. House]] and taking over Vegas in his place, free from the influences of the [[TheFederation NCR]] or [[TheHorde Caesar's Legion]]. While he starts off as [[SmugSnake Benny's]] henchman, he can be found by the Courier, at which point he'll gladly shift alliances once Benny's out of the picture for good. At no point in the game does Yes Man actively conspires against the player and will even force himself to accept counter-productive actions that he personally thinks is detrimental to his overall plans. [[spoiler:Even in the ending when he states that he found an upgrade that allows him to be more "assertive", it's only meant to make sure that he can monitor Vegas by himself without someone else stumbling upon him and pulling the same thing on you]].
* ''MegaManX'': The main protagonists of the franchise are this. X and Zero are more than capable of taking down some of the most ungodly-powerful foes on earth ''alone,'' and because of it are [[AssKickingEqualsAuthority very well established in the chain of command.]] However, they still answer and take orders from the Maverick Hunters' supreme commander, Signas, who is said to be as good in combat as his predecessor, [[BigBad Sigma.]]
* Fenrich from ''VideoGame/{{Disgaea 4|A Promise Unforgotten}}'' is an unrepentant, scheming ManipulativeBastard - it's just that all his plots and ambitions are not for himself but for his lord Valvatorez, to whom he is [[UndyingLoyalty impossibly loyal to]].
-->'''Hugo:''' Werewolf, what about you? I assume ''you're'' the man behind this conspiracy.
-->'''Fenrich:''' My scheming is only made valid by my master's presence. I cannot claim credit for it.
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Western Animation ]]
* ''WesternAnimation/{{Gargoyles}}'': Even Xanatos himself has one. Towards the end of the series, it is revealed that [[spoiler: his assistant Owen Burnett is actually the powerful fairy Puck.]] Oddly enough, he remains a loyal servant and even friend all the way. His official explaination is that [[ItAmusedMe "Xanatos is many things, but never boring."]]
* ''{{Transformers}}'': In the 80s "post Movie 2005 era cartoon" Cyclonus was easily this to Galvatron. Galvatron at least could lead by example as he had the unrestrained gung ho and toughness needed in a fighter. And he certainly wasn't afraid of rushing headfirst into the thick of battle with no regard for his own safety. Cyclonus, however, was more intelligent, careful, calmer, saner, less violent, and wasn't prone to beating his subordinates around. Cyclonus also knew how to plan strategically and act in purely diplomatic situations. In most of the situations where the Autobots and Decepticons were required to join forces and work together, the involved Decepticons were under the command of Cyclonus. Possibly, Cyclonus insisted on preserving Galvatron's leadership due to their connection with Unicron. After all, they are his creations and when Unicron decides that Cyclonus is fit to replace Galvatron, he will let Cyclonus know.
* ''WesternAnimation/TransformersPrime'' gives us Soundwave, who was essentially TheDragon to Megatron (until [[ProudWarriorRaceGuy Dreadwing]] showed up). Soundwave not only [[SinisterSurveillance keeps an eye on]] ''[[ParanoiaFuel everything]]'', he's also feared by almost everyone (with Airachnid learning [[CurbStompBattle exactly]]'' [[CurbStompBattle why]]'' [[CurbStompBattle you shouldn't pick a fight with him]]), to the point where [[TheStarscream Starscream]] kept trying to tiptoe around him/gain his approval whilst attempting to usurp Megatron. Also, according to one of the background novels, Soundwave ''almost'' bested Megatron in gladitorial combat. '''''[[AuthorityEqualsAsskicking Mega]][[{{Badass}} tron.]]'''''
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Real Life ]]
* Reinhard Heydrich, the head of the infamous Wannsee Conference planning the Holocaust, was the right hand of Reichsfuehrer-SS Heinrich Himmler who would've been barely able to survive inner-Nazi rivalry without his loyal Reinhard. [[JustifiedTrope Justified]] as Heydrich was a very poor public speaker, had no talent to win sympathy from the common people and was feared and hated by everyone, Himmler included. Even if he gained political power, he was not going to survive enough to enjoy it.
* This is often TruthInTelevision in monarchies, when the king sits on his throne and the [[EvilChancellor Chancellor]], Steward, Prime Minister, or other top servant of the Crown actually runs things, as seen in the quote above. This is sometimes even an official arrangement, like the Japanese Shogunate.
* This is arguably a good summary of how the government of the United Kingdom is run. While the reigning monarch is technically the head of state and the church in name, the elected ministers are the ones who have all the power.
** And despite the prevailing wisdom that the U.S. President is basically King of America, what makes a great U.S. President more often than not it boils down who they choose for their cabinet.
* Through numerous administrations and for many decades, the unelected J. Edgar Hoover ran his operations from behind the scenes and answered to no one, as he had detailed files on the financial and sexual foibles and failings of nearly every elected official in the USA and many prominent private citizens as well. Sitting Presidents and other politicians throughout his life generally either learned to get along with him or else stay out of his way.
* William I of ImperialGermany had this relationship with both Bismarck and Von Moltke. They were more competent then he, being ConsummateProfessional's at the crafts of scheming and slaying respectively. However William was reasonably competent himself, sensible enough to use their talents effectively and a skillful enough leader to keep them working together instead of at cross-purposes.
* Zhuge Liang, strategist extraordinaire for the [[RomanceOfTheThreeKingdoms kingdom of Shu]]. With his incredible knowledge of both military and political strategy, he could EASILY have become ruler of Shu and unified all of China. However, he was loyal to Liu Bei even beyond his master's death.
* [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belisarius Flavius Belisarius]] was a Byzantine general whose immense skill left the Empress Theodora in constant fear that he would stage a coup, resulting in Emperor Justinian frequently recalling him right in the middle of a campaign.
* Luddendorf to General Hindenberg in WorldWarI.
** Similarly Gnesniau to Blücher in the NapoleonicWars.
* [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lin_Biao Lin Biao]] was this to Mao Zedong, and for a time was considered the heir apparent to the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party. Unfortunately he sealed his own fate when he leveraged his popular support and respect within the party to became TheStarscream.
[[/folder]]
----
-->--'''Otto von Bismarck'''
Sometimes a PoisonousFriend's chief weapons are {{plan}}s. Sometimes there's a [[TheManBehindTheMan Man Behind The]] MagnificentBastard. In those cases, the result is a ChessmasterSidekick.
The ChessmasterSidekick is a [[TheChessmaster master]] of these tactics who could easily overthrow his or her boss, but who remains [[TrueCompanions fiercely]] [[BloodBrothers loyal]] to said boss, for [[ThePowerOfFriendship diverse]] [[ThePowerOfLove reasons]]. This counts double if the master of the ChessmasterSidekick is a {{Badass}} or a [[TheStrategist Strategist]] in his own right. In this case, the ChessmasterSidekick is an [[InfinityPlusOneSword Infinity Plus One Tactician]].
If the boss is an [[ConservationOfCompetence idiot or otherwise incompetent]], this overlaps with HypercompetentSidekick. See also BattleButler, SidekickExMachina and GuardianEntity.
----
!!Examples:
[[foldercontrol]]
[[folder: Anime and Manga ]]
* In ''LegendOfGalacticHeroes'', Kircheis, [[spoiler: and later, Hilda]] serve as Reinhart's Puss in Boots: both have Reinhart's trust, and both save his life [[spoiler: Hilda manage to OutGambit Yang, who just managed to OutGambit Reinhart: [[CrowningMomentOfAwesome Demonstrating]] that she is the smartest Chessmaster in a series [[GambitPileup full of them]], way to go, Fraulein]]
** Then, Yang is a subversion of this trope: [[spoiler: He never wanted to be more than the Puss in boots of the Alliance, but its inept and corrupted politicians, fearing his popularity, and unable to see the man's selflessness, never believed he was content with his role and kept triying to constrain him, causing their own doom]]
* Askeladd to Canute in ''Manga/VinlandSaga''.
* ''FullmetalAlchemist'' features Maes Hughes filling this role to Roy Mustang's {{Badass}} [[TheStrategist Strategist]]. Roy Mustang even lampshades this in the aftermath of [[spoiler:Hughes's funeral]].
** The only character who could be said to supersede Hughes in that department would be Riza Hawkeye, Mustang's adjutant/bodyguard/secretary/oldest friend/second-in-command. Literally her entire life is dedicated to protecting Mustang and helping him reach his goals; her loyalty is so far beyond question that Mustang has appointed her to ''shoot him in the back'' if he ever strays from the righteous path.
* In ''Manga/YuYuHakusho'', [[TheChessmaster Kurama]] is much more cunning and ruthless than the other members of the Tantei (even [[TokenEvilTeamMate Hiei]] balks at the idea of facing off against him), but remains fiercely loyal to the team.
* ''Manga/{{Bleach}}'' featured Gin who was absolutely loyal [[spoiler:to Rangiku. He spent a hundred years earning the trust of Aizen just to get revenge for one of Aizen's flunkies hurting her]].
* [[AlternateCharacterInterpretation One interpretation]] of [[Anime/NeonGenesisEvangelion Yui Ikari]] is that she was one of these, since a flashback at the end of the series hints that she knew far more about what was going to happen than she let on.
* General Blue of ''Manga/DragonBall'' is shown to be this to the Red Ribbon Army and Commander Red. Blue possessed superhuman endurance, superhuman strength, possibly superhuman speed, and PsychicPowers. Because of this, he could easily take over the Red Ribbon Army and dispose of Commander Red and Staff Officer Black if he so desired. Instead he follows their orders to the letter.[[hottip:*:Of course, had he lived long enough to learn about Commander Red planning to use the Dragonballs to make himself taller, he probably wouldn't mind partaking in a big TheDogBitesBack moment.]]
* Head Maid (yes, [[EveryoneCallsHimBarkeep that's her name]]) in ''LightNovel/MaoyuuMaouYuusha'' is the right hand of the {{adorkable}} super-economist [[HollywoodNerd Demon Queen]]. Besides tending the house, being [[NinjaMaid her bodyguard]] and ''commanding her armies'' in her absence, she also makes sure she dresses like a [[MsFanservice proper]] EvilOverlord and gives her advice on her love life.
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Comic Books ]]
* {{Batman}} to {{Superman}} in the JusticeLeague. Superman's still stronger, faster, tougher, more intelligent, more durable, just as determined and a better leader but Batman is capable of taking down pretty much anybody on Earth, if need be.
** If he has time to prepare, of course.
*** [[CrazyPrepared He's had plenty of time.]]
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Film]]
* ''TortureGarden'' featured a variation on the Puss in Boots theme. The twist? The cat was a demon that needed to be [[HumanResources fed human heads]] to make his master rich.
* Alas, Puss in Boots from the second and third ''WesternAnimation/{{Shrek}}'' movies is not, in fact, a Puss in Boots.
** He is an intellectual badass and excellent fencer who remains fiercely loyal to Shrek, he just doesn't use any of his skills to set Shrek up in any position of power, probably because Shrek [[IJustWantToBeNormal isn't interested in ruling anyway]] and has an iron-clad legitimate claim in any case.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Literature]]
* The FairyTale "Literature/PussInBoots" is OlderThanSteam.
* Similarly, MercedesLackey's novel ''Reserved For The Cat'' is based off of the fairy tale.
* The "Puss In Boots"-inspired Maurice of the Literature/{{Discworld}} novel ''The Amazing Maurice And His Educated Rodents'' combines this with JerkWithAHeartOfGold.
** Appears in the Discworld novel Pyramids, in which the BigBad may or may not be stuck in a StableTimeLoop and have been "advisor" to the ''entire'' royal family.
* Capt. Dudley Smith from James Ellroy's ''L.A. Quartet'', and, of course, the motion picture ''LAConfidential'', is both a MagnificentBastard and a ChessmasterSidekick. He may not be the Chief of Police but he is both clever and manipulative, making the Los Angeles Police Department serve his ends.
* Before the prequels revealed the utter depth and breadth of Palpatine's EvilPlan, [[TheThrawnTrilogy Grand Admiral Thrawn]] was often seen this way by fans. Thrawn was loyal to the Emperor, and seemed to be a much better plotter.
** With the complete story of Palpatine's rise on the table, it was more like they were equals, but in different areas- Palpatine was the master of political and personal manipulations, while Thrawn was the master of military strategy.
* In Creator/IsaacAsimov's ''{{Foundation}}'' novels, Bel Riose apparently exemplifies this trait so thoroughly that his emperor, Cleon II, is later remembered merely as "Riose's Emperor." Much like the character's real-life inspiration, Belisarius, [[spoiler: this results in his recall.]] Unlike Belisarius, however, [[spoiler: Riose is executed for treason.]]
* Rana Sanga is this to Damadora in BelisariusSeries. Aide is this to Belisarius. Irene is not only Kungas' ChessmasterSidekick she is his [[HotConsort wife]].
* In the ''Literature/HarryPotter'' series, Snape is this for Dumbledore - and he'd be the HypercompetentSidekick, if not for the fact that Dumbledore is the most ridiculously powerful and cunning wizard alive. Of course, Dumbledore [[ManipulativeBastard manipulates]] Snape rather shamelessly, and Snape has his [[TheLostLenore own]] [[TheAtoner reasons]] for working for him, but they nonetheless seem to be friends.
* Admiral Count Aral [[VorkosiganSaga Vorkosigan]] is this to Emperor Gregor Vorbarra, having served variously as His Regent, Prime Minister and Viceroy of 1/3rd of the Empire of Barrayar since Gregor was 6. Indeed, the case could be made that Aral had just as strong (if not a stronger) claim to the throne than the Vorbarras, and many urged him to declare himself Emperor and murder/execute young Gregor while he was Regent. [[TheCincinnatus He declined]]. A similar state of affairs can be said of Aral's son Miles to Gregor (although Miles would have far greater trouble holding the throne, considering his... deformities), Miles to Illyan, Illyan to Gregor, Illyan to Aral, Tung to Miles and Negri to Ezar.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Television]]
* Noah Bennet, from ''Series/{{Heroes}}'', after the reveal that his {{Magnificent Bastard}}ry is to protect his daughter, Claire.
* This is arguably the role Spock plays in ''Series/StarTrekTheOriginalSeries''. While Kirk is shown to be a competent leader, Spock is physically stronger, more technically knowledgeable, and has telepathic abilities.
** Fits even better in the MirrorUniverse. Mirror Spock could easily take over Mirror Kirk's role as captain, but is content to stay as first officer as it means he's a lesser target for [[KlingonPromotion assassination]].
** Fits better still with the 2009 reboot, as Kirk has yet to develop his legendary leadership abilities (or for that matter much basic competence) while Spock is easily the most competent officer all around aboard the ''Enterprise''.
* [[TheHumphrey Sir Humphrey Appleby]] from ''YesMinister'' occasionally serves this function for Jim Hacker (when he isn't [[SmugSnake secretly undermining him]]).
* Barney from Series/HowIMetYourMother, though his schemes mainly involve getting Ted laid.
** Mainly '''Ted''' getting laid?
*** [[RunningGag "Haaave you met Ted?"]]
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Video Games ]]
* In every ''{{Suikoden}}'' game, [[TheStrategist the tactician]] is the Puss in Boots of the Tenkai Star. In all games except the third, the hero leads the field operations while the Strategist devises the {{plans}}. In ''SuikodenV'', if the player gives the good answers in some [[DialogueTree discussions]], the Tactician will even claim that she is impressed by the intelligence and insight of the hero, which puts more emphasis on the fact that the Prince is not merely a figurehead.
** Doesn't mean he's allowed to direct the plot any.
*** Then we enter into the metaphysical debate about whether or not the characters of video games are moving the plot while the player has no control over it.
*** Technically, you can at one point choose to defend your castle instead of taking the tactician's (and everyone else's) advice to evacuate. Doing so will result in losing one character forever, meaning no best ending.
**** [[VideoGame/MetalGearSolid Change that to whether the characters have any control over the plot, and somebody made a game about it.]]
**** Technically, [[AllThereInTheManual the game pretty much explains that almost everything is fated]], but that the heroes have the [[PowerOfFriendship power to change destiny in small ways through gathering all 108 stars]]. Considering that [[MultipleEndings this is the difference]] between a BittersweetEnding and a HappilyEverAfter ending, it can be somewhat satisfying. Especially in V, where it [[BodyguardCrush finally implies something going on between]] [[VictoriousChildHoodFriend the hero and his doting female bodyguard]].
* In ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyXII'', [[spoiler:Cid is the Puss in Boots of Vayne, while Venat is the Puss in Boots of Cid]]. On the other side, we have an aversion in [[spoiler:Vossler, who wants to be Ashe's Puss in Boots, but end up betraying her and loses his life for it]] and a subversion in [[spoiler:Larsa, who does not ''serve'' Ashe, but helps her regain her throne because he feels that an independent Dalmasca serves the interests of Archadia]].
* In ''VideoGame/FinalFantasyVI'', Kefka reveals himself to be this to Emperor Gestahl. [[TheStarscream Or so it would seem.]]
* In ''DragonAge: Origins'', if you want Alistair on the throne you pretty much have to play this. Against his resistance every step of the way. Or, if you're a Human Noble, you may just [[ManipulativeBastard take it yourself]].
* In the SamAndMax games, Max is perfectly content to let Sam be in charge of their duo, despite Max gradually gaining more and more power, both political and supernatural.
* ''VideoGame/FalloutNewVegas'' has Yes Man, an A.I who is programmed to follow the orders of anyone who gives him orders and has masterminded a plan involving the usurping of [[TheChessmaster Mr. House]] and taking over Vegas in his place, free from the influences of the [[TheFederation NCR]] or [[TheHorde Caesar's Legion]]. While he starts off as [[SmugSnake Benny's]] henchman, he can be found by the Courier, at which point he'll gladly shift alliances once Benny's out of the picture for good. At no point in the game does Yes Man actively conspires against the player and will even force himself to accept counter-productive actions that he personally thinks is detrimental to his overall plans. [[spoiler:Even in the ending when he states that he found an upgrade that allows him to be more "assertive", it's only meant to make sure that he can monitor Vegas by himself without someone else stumbling upon him and pulling the same thing on you]].
* ''MegaManX'': The main protagonists of the franchise are this. X and Zero are more than capable of taking down some of the most ungodly-powerful foes on earth ''alone,'' and because of it are [[AssKickingEqualsAuthority very well established in the chain of command.]] However, they still answer and take orders from the Maverick Hunters' supreme commander, Signas, who is said to be as good in combat as his predecessor, [[BigBad Sigma.]]
* Fenrich from ''VideoGame/{{Disgaea 4|A Promise Unforgotten}}'' is an unrepentant, scheming ManipulativeBastard - it's just that all his plots and ambitions are not for himself but for his lord Valvatorez, to whom he is [[UndyingLoyalty impossibly loyal to]].
-->'''Hugo:''' Werewolf, what about you? I assume ''you're'' the man behind this conspiracy.
-->'''Fenrich:''' My scheming is only made valid by my master's presence. I cannot claim credit for it.
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[[folder: Western Animation ]]
* ''WesternAnimation/{{Gargoyles}}'': Even Xanatos himself has one. Towards the end of the series, it is revealed that [[spoiler: his assistant Owen Burnett is actually the powerful fairy Puck.]] Oddly enough, he remains a loyal servant and even friend all the way. His official explaination is that [[ItAmusedMe "Xanatos is many things, but never boring."]]
* ''{{Transformers}}'': In the 80s "post Movie 2005 era cartoon" Cyclonus was easily this to Galvatron. Galvatron at least could lead by example as he had the unrestrained gung ho and toughness needed in a fighter. And he certainly wasn't afraid of rushing headfirst into the thick of battle with no regard for his own safety. Cyclonus, however, was more intelligent, careful, calmer, saner, less violent, and wasn't prone to beating his subordinates around. Cyclonus also knew how to plan strategically and act in purely diplomatic situations. In most of the situations where the Autobots and Decepticons were required to join forces and work together, the involved Decepticons were under the command of Cyclonus. Possibly, Cyclonus insisted on preserving Galvatron's leadership due to their connection with Unicron. After all, they are his creations and when Unicron decides that Cyclonus is fit to replace Galvatron, he will let Cyclonus know.
* ''WesternAnimation/TransformersPrime'' gives us Soundwave, who was essentially TheDragon to Megatron (until [[ProudWarriorRaceGuy Dreadwing]] showed up). Soundwave not only [[SinisterSurveillance keeps an eye on]] ''[[ParanoiaFuel everything]]'', he's also feared by almost everyone (with Airachnid learning [[CurbStompBattle exactly]]'' [[CurbStompBattle why]]'' [[CurbStompBattle you shouldn't pick a fight with him]]), to the point where [[TheStarscream Starscream]] kept trying to tiptoe around him/gain his approval whilst attempting to usurp Megatron. Also, according to one of the background novels, Soundwave ''almost'' bested Megatron in gladitorial combat. '''''[[AuthorityEqualsAsskicking Mega]][[{{Badass}} tron.]]'''''
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Real Life ]]
* Reinhard Heydrich, the head of the infamous Wannsee Conference planning the Holocaust, was the right hand of Reichsfuehrer-SS Heinrich Himmler who would've been barely able to survive inner-Nazi rivalry without his loyal Reinhard. [[JustifiedTrope Justified]] as Heydrich was a very poor public speaker, had no talent to win sympathy from the common people and was feared and hated by everyone, Himmler included. Even if he gained political power, he was not going to survive enough to enjoy it.
* This is often TruthInTelevision in monarchies, when the king sits on his throne and the [[EvilChancellor Chancellor]], Steward, Prime Minister, or other top servant of the Crown actually runs things, as seen in the quote above. This is sometimes even an official arrangement, like the Japanese Shogunate.
* This is arguably a good summary of how the government of the United Kingdom is run. While the reigning monarch is technically the head of state and the church in name, the elected ministers are the ones who have all the power.
** And despite the prevailing wisdom that the U.S. President is basically King of America, what makes a great U.S. President more often than not it boils down who they choose for their cabinet.
* Through numerous administrations and for many decades, the unelected J. Edgar Hoover ran his operations from behind the scenes and answered to no one, as he had detailed files on the financial and sexual foibles and failings of nearly every elected official in the USA and many prominent private citizens as well. Sitting Presidents and other politicians throughout his life generally either learned to get along with him or else stay out of his way.
* William I of ImperialGermany had this relationship with both Bismarck and Von Moltke. They were more competent then he, being ConsummateProfessional's at the crafts of scheming and slaying respectively. However William was reasonably competent himself, sensible enough to use their talents effectively and a skillful enough leader to keep them working together instead of at cross-purposes.
* Zhuge Liang, strategist extraordinaire for the [[RomanceOfTheThreeKingdoms kingdom of Shu]]. With his incredible knowledge of both military and political strategy, he could EASILY have become ruler of Shu and unified all of China. However, he was loyal to Liu Bei even beyond his master's death.
* [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belisarius Flavius Belisarius]] was a Byzantine general whose immense skill left the Empress Theodora in constant fear that he would stage a coup, resulting in Emperor Justinian frequently recalling him right in the middle of a campaign.
* Luddendorf to General Hindenberg in WorldWarI.
** Similarly Gnesniau to Blücher in the NapoleonicWars.
* [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lin_Biao Lin Biao]] was this to Mao Zedong, and for a time was considered the heir apparent to the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party. Unfortunately he sealed his own fate when he leveraged his popular support and respect within the party to became TheStarscream.
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