Because it's more interesting as a rat. What kind of stupid questions are these? You only want easy solutions. I have a WHOLE concept, not just an idea that can be adapted to any race; otherwise, the original meaning is lost, and why would I just make him a simple mage-shapeshifter?
Небо – угроз не слышит
Небо – ведёт особый счёт
Небо – тебя найдёт