Holy crap, was the answer really this simple?
"Build a bond in battle, let it realize it needs you more than you need it. It's a simple yet practical approach. Come on, my disciple."
Murphy swung his blade whip, a quirky smile appearing on his handsome face as he said to Little Brother Fu, who stood trembling with his arms crossed:
"I'll go easy on you..."
All anyone could hear were the frantic roars of the Scorpion Lion and the strange screams of Little Brother Fu coming from the hazy incense mist. The smoke cleared minutes later to reveal Little Brother Fu in a somewhat tragic state, leaning against an equally beaten Scorpion Lion.
The animal contract between the two was clearly established.
The Scorpion Lion Stinkypoo extended its tongue to lick Little Brother Fu's raised hand, reverting to its previous state of 'family-like' affection.
Murphy, on the other hand, appeared incognito.