The definition of "c-bet" says that you have to the preflop raiser in order to make one. It is the continuation of your preflop action.

I'm no cash game expert, so I'm not gonna even try to reply to this post much Quickly running through your list though ... I'd be more inclined to c bet a single opp as opposed to more than one, I don't mind betting OOP if the flop texture is good, and I'm obviously more willing to bet vs tight players who will fold if they don't hit the flop hard. If there are players who are raising my c bets with air post flop, I'm less inclined to play pots with them and/or I'm finding an easier table.