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The mouse came to a halt and turned her head upwards, giving a resentful glare to the sky as a fresh wave of rain came pouring down. Her staff was clutched in her paws, and a bag was over her shoulder. Her robes were folded up and placed in her bags where they'd keep relatively dry. The mouse herself was fur clad. Robes drenched with rain would have been a hindrance rather a help. Droplets of rain poured down her whiskers and along her pink tail. She sighed. Why oh why did it have to rain today, she wondered, dropping her head and beginning to trudge forward again.

As more rain fell, and as the blue sky grew clouded, another rodent would share the discomfort. He had kept inside for a few days now, and was having the worst luck. All the safer areas were picked clean, no doubt by his own breathren, and to top it all off, now it was raining. Of course, there was no great reason that he had stayed inside before: It was more the result of laziness than anything, a common attribute of male rats. He'd sigh with a small huff, more than regretting his decisions at this point. His fur, of a light grey aside from his white underbelly, was soon drenched. With a short series of mumbled squeaks, no doubt concealing rat-based expletives, he'd scamper back home. Wet, tired. . . and no food to show for it: there would be little to question as to why he felt so annoyed. Reflexively his nose and whiskers twitched as he moved carefully between the trees. He wasn't particularly worried about danger, who hunts in the rain after all? Still, checking your surroundings was a habit that every rodent picks up. . . those that want to survive anyway. And so, he'd follow through and continue to sniff all as he went. Occasionally stopping and raising up on his back legs. Rat's didn't have the best eye sight, but the heightened sense of smell more than made up for that when checking for danger. . . or food.

He'd freeze. Something. . . something caught his attention with his last sniff. There was a look of genuine shock along his face. This rat had little reason to suspect a threat on his usual path, especially not in the rain. Even still, he'd of felt less surprise in sensing that over his actual discovery. A mouse. And. . . judging by the scent, a doe at that. What kind of colony sends out a mouse doe? He'd sniff again, deducing even the age of the mouse in question by smell alone. It wasn't even an especially young one, he'd reason. That. . . that could mean. . . hmmm. A sense of excitement slowly gathered in him. Male mice could get a bit wily , but a doe. . . that shouldn't be so bad. And if it was older, not just some child, it could feed him for a good while! He'd increase his pace, heading straight to the orgin of the scent with great zeal, leaves rustling and twigs snapping as he grew closer.

The mouse walked with a steady pace along the familiar path homeward. She was cold and her muscles ached, but whenever she was tempted to rest, she'd remind herself was a dry burrow and a warm furry bunny both waiting for her. Still, neither her aches or annoyance or her thoughts of getting home distracted her from keeping an eye and an ear out for danger. The first sign something was wrong was a rustle out place back along the path. She'd slow a bit, looking over her shoulder but there was nothing. Probably it was just the rain. She went a bit further. . .and there it was again. She sighed, her shoulders drooping and her eyes narrowing. No, that wasn't just the rain. There wasn't enough cover over there for something really big. It might be a small fox or even a cat. Strangely, she didn't feel fear so much as annoyance, as if the hidden pred was just some vexation nature was throwing at her akin to the rain. She'd tense inwardly, reminding herself that an overconfident prey was easy prey, and that her friend's peace of mind might depend on her ability to look after herself. She'd come to a stop and turn slowly around, scanning the bushes, staff lowered. If it turn out to be a pred, she didn't want whatever it was to realize the staff was a weapon, at least not yet. Seeing no movement, she'd call out, "Heya!" in a firm voice. "I know y'out there." She'd puase a moment to let that sink in. "This is just a friendly piece of advice. If y'huntin, I'm not gonnna be easy t'catch. I sincerely expect you'll be happier if y'seek out easier prey!" That done, she'd turn and continue on her way. Whatever the thing was, ti was its move now.

Stopping in place, he'd try to spot her by sight from behind a tree. . . though couldn't really make much out just yet. The aroma though. . . "mmm. . ." she was certainly near, and that white blur he could see, likely represented his quarry. He'd try to focus himself, and creep forward in the grass. Hunting wasn't his usual forte, but. . . the potential reward was just too tempting to pass up!

His ears flicked. A rat's sight was poor, but its hearing was nothing of the sort. At her initial statement, he'd frown. How could he of already been spotted!? Of course he wasn't the most experienced at stalking but. . . it made him feel more than disappointed. But wait. . . just because she said that. . . didn't mean she knew for sure. And she probably didn't know exactly where he was. Maybe. . . she was just bluffing on the off chance something might be there? As the mouse continued, he'd only seem to cling to that idea more and more. What could be easier to catch than a mouse-doe? Fruit? Some nuts maybe? Though you did have to crack those first. He'd smile some. . . before his stomach growled. There was no reason not to try at least. What's the worst that could happen? The mouse runs off squealing? He'd shrug.

The rat took a few breaths and tried to get himself ready. While he didn't think the mouse was serious, if it was on alert, that alone was going to make things harder. He'd step forward slowly, just a bit at a time, trying to get closer. There was no way he could chase her at such a distance. He'd try to wait till he saw the white blur (alleged mouse), moving forward again before going to fast. Once he saw that much as least, he'd scurry along, going from tree to tree and stopping to look on occasion. Finally, he'd manage to get close enough. . . make his eyes go wide. The sight of her. . . it froze him. There. . . there was certainly a lot of meat. Nice looking too. He'd blink. What was this mouse thinking being out alone!? It was a feast! He'd consider that maybe he was having better luck than he thought. Even though he was close enough to see, he'd still be blinded, unable to notice the large staff. He'd move forward again, getting just a little over eager now, paws thumping the ground harder, not being quite as careful. . . how could he focus with all that food in-front of him!? It was the same damning factor caused so many of his kind to fall to baited-traps.

He wasn't completely obliviously that the mouse would catch on at any moment now, but reasoned that he could simply run forward once that happened. . . every additional inch a welcomed bonus.

Every once in a while, a sound from the brush or a flicker of movement would tell Licthia she wasn't alone. Still, the more the thing stalked her, the more she was convinced whatever it was was kind of small. Not a fox, not even a cat. She'd almost wonder if it could be a rabbit, but a rabbit wouldn't stalk her like that. She'd heart the thumping and turn, dropping her back nad gripping her staff. She felt a surge of adrenaline, and a thrill shot through her. She felt alive, not frightened at all. She almost smiled when saw what it was. A rat! Ohhh, she hated rats. Yes, she knew it was wrong to judge a furre by their species. But in her bones, she knew rats were vermin, wicked creatures that would steal into the colony burrows and devour the children. She hated them worse than any other pred.

She could have given him another fair warning. Despite her hatred of rats, she would have, if it had only been her own life on the line. But her friends, and she owed it to them to do whatever was most likely to keep her alive. And so she let out a sharp *squeal!*, the last sound a terrified doe would instinctively make to warn her companions before she fell to a pred. She made that sound, and she gripped her staff.

The rat would tense. He could see the mouse turn. . . did it. . . yes. It saw him! He'd begin to run forward, almost bumbling over himself as he did. Ooooh! It was too scared to run away! He heard that sound before, it knew it was done for! This was great! He was going to get a large meal and wouldn't even have to do much work in the process: To a rat, there wasn't a better situation.

He'd push back and leap forward with his front paws stretched and his large teeth bared. Internally, as he moved in slow motion through the air, he imagined how scary he must seem to that silly mouse. What a rush! Maybe he should hunt more often? His eyes narrowed as he began to descend.

Licthia bent her knees, drew her knees, and braced herself as the grey rat sailed through the air towards her. She couldn't have asked for an easier target. She whipped around, putting her body into the swing as she'd learned, and felt the shock of impact through her arms as the staff connected with the rat's skull with a sickening crack.

The rat's expression would go from intimidation to complete and total confusion. . . just before the stick made contact. A surge of pain shot through him, originating at his head. *SQUEAL! SQUEAL!* Before he even landed. . . everything grew dark.

She brought the staff back up and faced the rat ready for another attack. But he just lay there, stretched out on the ground, the rain pouring done on him. "Are you ok?" she'd ask hesitantly,. Cautiously, lest this be a trap, she'd reach down for her bag and then approach him. She'd run a paw over his skull. It was bleeding, but the bone wasn't broken. But he was unconscious. Huh. Well that had been easier than she'd expected.

She looked the rat over appraising. She certainly wasn't going to let all this good meat go to waste. . . .not when her love was hungry! She pursed her lips. He was just a bit scrawny. But there was some muscle there as well, especially around the legs. She smiled. He'd make a good meal for Jaabir!

And so she knelt and started trussing him up, happy for her forsite in carrying twine and other essentials in her bag when she traveled. She laid her staff along his back, then tied both arms and legs around it. Once she was satisfied he wasn't getting away, she'd take the time to bandage up his head. Poor fellow, that would ache when he came around.

Finally, she'd hoist him up on her back, taking care of keeping his jaws away from her person. He was bigger than her, but smaller creatures can carry more weight proportionately than larger, and she wasn't that far away from the nest. Yeah, he was heavy, and she was sure she'd be aching for a couple days after this. But she smiled as she walked, happy.

As he was lifted and carried along. The rat's eyes lifted, and there would be a low groan. He was too gone at the moment to know he was being carried, and couldn't even find the strength to move. "Wha. . . a hmlph. . .ga. . .mouse?" he'd mumble incoherently. A leg would attempt to twitch on occasion in its bindings, but there would be no true attempt at escape. . . nor the capability to manage such.

As the rat spoke, there'd be an answering cry, "Take it easy!" There'd be a pause and then. "Don't try t'move, jus rest. . . . Y'had a nasty knock ty'head, but nothin's broken. Y'should be alright with a bit of rest." Of course it was uncertain how much rest he'd get, but there was no need to trouble him with that information just yet.

"Uhh. . ?" would be his initial reply. He'd simply lay near motionless, all but his tail. Slowly there would be signs of rational thought once more. "K. .. knock?" The last thing he could remember was trying to catch a mouse. Was. . . was it carrying him? And. . . did it. . . hit him? Confused wouldn't be accurate enough to describe his thoughts as his beady eyes peered forward blankly.

The mouse would turn her head around to look back up at the rat. She regarded him smiling, looking into his eyes. She had a pretty face, and a friendly smile. "Yeah, y'tried t'make a meal of me," she'd answer smiling, in a tone as if she was chiding him for some innocent silly mistake. "I did tell y'y'd be happier if y'went after easier prey." She'd sigh, and roll her eyes, an expression that suggested, what can you do if folk don't listen.

"M'name's, Lichthia. How y'feelin?" She'd ask, before turning her head back to watch where she was going.

So, it. . . it was the same mouse. And. . . it seemed as bout as non-treatening as one could expect. His head lowered some at the realization. He not only failed his hunt. . . he got beaten. . . by a doe. . . a mouse doe. It was a pretty large blow to his pride, though the same would be true for any male rat in the same position. "oh. . ." he'd mutter softly, groaning once more and shutting his eyes,. It would take a few moments before he'd add, "s. . .sor. . . sorry. . ." He'd take a heavy breath and shake his head, turning his muzzle and gazing at her with droopy eyes, "bad. . ." He was wet, hungry. . . with significant injury to both his head and pride. It was an understatement by far, but he didn't feel like using larger words right now.

The mouse would laugh at the apology, a light hearted laugh. She'd turn her head and smile at him, before facing forward again, shaking her head. "Look, I don't blame you for tryin t'pred me. Y'a pred, I'm prey, and you were hungry. But y'not sorry y'tried t'pred me!" She'd look up at him and smile again. "Y'sorry y'tried t'pred me and failed Y'sorry y'tied up on m'shoulders, and not home in y'burrow, nice n'dry with m'corpse t'feed on. I imagine I would have fed y'quite a while." She'd look forward again. "I don't blame you for doin what y'need t'do t'live, like we all do. But I would appreciate it if y'wouldn't insult m'intelligence."

The words would drift in slowly. And his ears and head lowered in a reflexive sign of submission. He'd sigh. The rat couldn't rightly disagree. It would be a happily chosen preference to have a large meal and warmth about now. . . over such an embarrassing turn of events. "al. . . right. . ." he'd mumble, almost sadly.

He'd wait for a moment, and try to conserve a bit of strength, as well as consider what was happening. "Wh. . . why . .. " he'd pause, almost posing the question of what the mouse was doing carrying him along, before reasoning an explanation himself: She had saved him. "Th. thanks for. . . not leaving me. . ."

The mouse would sigh, regretting her hard words. True, they were entirely just, but the rat was having a bad day; he was tied up and his head hurt. And he was probably going to end the day as snake food. She should be more gracious. "Y'welcome!" the mouse answered. "I'm takin y't'm'home," she'd inform him. "I got plenty of nuts n'berries hoarded away there, you'll be able to eat then." She'd look up and give him a teasing smile. "No meat though." Well, no meat he could eat!

It was all so humiliating. Still. . . it could be worse. If he was left out in the open, he'd of been dead before the rain ended. And, the mouse was doing this for him even though he tried to eat her. The mention of the food would only elevate the feeling of gratitude. . . as his stomach gave a low growl. Ooooh, he was hungry. "R-really?. . ." He'd turn to face her, almost smiling. . . then give a look of guilt at the statement of meat. "I. . . " The rat would almost try to apologize again, but knew what that would be met with. . . and she was right, he wasn't truly sorry for his actions, they made perfect sense. He was hungry, she was a potential meal, and he tried to stalk her. He wouldn't finish his statement, and instead only sigh.

"Salright, I understand," the mouse would answer his cut off reply. "I shouldn't have snapped at you earlier." There'd be a short pause and then, "What I said was true of course, but I shouldn't have snapped at you." She'd glance back and add, "So y'haven't told me y'name, yet, like I said, mine's Lichthia."

He'd only nod in reply, not making an attempt to refute her. At the question, he'd look back with rain trickling off his nose. "Tarik. . ." The rat would finally say, softly. It was certainly clear he wasn't as dazed as before, but the slow movement of his head and the tired look in his eyes would indicate he was still 'out'. He'd sigh again. "Lich. . . thia. . ." there would be another small groan, "I'll. . . make it. . . up to you. . ."

The mouse nodded. "I know you will," she answered softly. He would of course, just not in the way expected. Still, she felt no rancor towards him, and was even feeling a little sad. She'd briefly consider cutting him loose, but no. . . events were set in motion. Still, he'd have a better chance of survival than if she'd left him in the mud. "I'd say it's a pleasure to meet you, Tarik, but that isn't entirely true, probably for either one of us," she'd add with a small laugh. "Still, I find I'm enjoyin y'company." She'd turn her head to glance up at him. "So what were y'doin on y'own?" she'd ask. The mouse wasn't entirely familiar with rat culture of course, but she was aware rats, like mice, were largely communal.

The answer caught the rat a bit off guard, and his head would even tilt as if he were a bunny. He'd blink and lower his head once more as the mouse went on. What could he say to that? It really wasn't a pleasure at all for him, at least, not in the sense of being carried along, half-dazed, in the rain by something that he was trying to eat. The laugh though. . . it was just a tiny bit infections, even given his situation, and he'd smile lightly.

The look of happiness would fade rather quickly at the subject Lichthia brought up. He'd look away. "I. . ." He'd look if not a little more embaressed than he was already. "Ch . .. challenged. . . a leader. . . I lost. . . " Like mice, rat's were especially social in the sense of working in large colonies. Still, the structure was a bit different, based on rank dictated by your dominance against the one above you. One could try to raise their status . . but, try that on someone too high . . . and losing could be disastrous, despite the potential reward.

Lichthia had to suppress a smile. Oh, the poor fellow! He just couldn't do anything right, could he? Got himself kicked out from his colony, now he'd tried to pred the wrong mouse. "Oh, that sucks. . . ." the mouse would answer softly, a note of sympathy to her voice. "I'm outcast m'self," she'd answer. "Got sick in the winter, became barren. No room in the colony for a doe who can't bare kits." Lichtia would blink as she walked along. That had been a secret she'd only shared with two people, who closest friends in the world, and she'd just blurted it out. It wasn't that she felt any special affection for the rat, far from it. It just didn't seem that important anymore. What was the big deal?

The rat would be lost in his regret for a time. Reminded now, of his failures. . . that kept getting worse by the minute. He'd frown. If there was a direct path to depression, he was certainly heading that way. He'd raise an eye as Lichthia spoke once more. "oh. . ." he'd reply with a bit sadly. It certainly wasn't surprising, his colony would have done similar, and it did make sense why she was out alone. "that's. . . too bad. . ." He'd stare for a moment, "they. . . shouldn't of. . ." After all, a mouse that could take out a rat would of benefited a colony, children or no.

The mouse would smile at that. "I thank you for your kind words," she'd answer softly. "But it's alright." She'd sigh, though the smile would stay on her face. "It was painful, bein alone, for such a long time," she'd continue softly. "I go to the point where I was ready t'die." She'd sigh. "But in the end, it turned out t'be best thing that could have happened to me." Her eyes would lower, and a blissful expression would cross her face. "Cause if I hadn't been outcast, I never would've met m'love." Those last two words, spoken softly, would contain an undercurrent of intense devotion.

He'd nod to her, returning the smile faintly. At first a frown would form once more. "I. . . left recently. . ." he'd say softly, wondering if he too would experience such.At the change of tone, he'd head tilt. How could being out-casted be good? Ah. . . So she wasn't alone after all. The explanation would invoke some hope in his own plight. "That's. . . good." he'd nod. Still, it was low odds for two out-casted rodents of the same species to find each other like that. Usually, they'd just get eaten first. His head lowered, oh dear. "Um. . . he'll. . . be there?", he'd ask with a tinge of nervousness. The rat couldn't imagine a male mouse taking kindly to a rat trying to eat his mate. And with his paws tied. . . he'd be vulnerable.

The mouse nodded. "He's out lookin for food right now, but you will be meetin him,"" she'd answer. She'd turn her head to look Tarik in the eye. "I won't lie t'you. He's not gonna be happy when he finds out what happened." She'd turn her head back to look ahead. "But if you're very lucky, all he'll do is threaten you, tell you all the horrible things he'll do if y'ever even think of harmin a fur on me ever again, then let you go."

A shiver would run down the rat's spine. A mouse was a mouse. . . but with a weapon he could be looking at a much worse ordeal. Even with just a few smacks of that stick. . . he could have his bones broken, or worse. He'd attempt to squirm at the thought, but was still too weak to manage even that much, and the bindings were far too tight. "Um. . ." He'd breathe a little quicker, "if im. . . not lucky?. . ."

The mouse would shake her head at the question. "I'd try not t'think about that too hard if I was you," she'd answer softly. "It's my firm b'lief that there's no use worryin 'bout unpleasant matters that we cannot prevent and that may never occur." She'd look over at him and add, "I will untie you of course, when he comes home." She'd have to after all.

He'd calm, only faintly, at the assurances. The thought of being beat just didn't set right at all, even if it might not occur. However, the statement of being untied, that would ease him far more. He couldnt exactly be crippled if he could move, he could even fight back! Still, it was odd the mouse wouldnt consider that fact, but maybe its best not to change her mind? Slowly he'd reason she was only releasing him when the other arrived so they could both go after him should he just seek to turn around and try to eat the doe again. It wasnt a bad idea, and it made sense. The rat knew he would be undoubtly tempted. "I. . . understand. . ." he'd reply.

The mouse would glance back at the rat. He didn't really understand, did he? No, he couldn't. If he understood, he'd be begging her to let him go. Was it wrong to deceive him? She didn't think so. Why should he live in fear longer than he had to? Sill, she wouldn't be able to keep the truth from him for much long.

She carried him silently for a while, muscles sore, and she was getting hungry. A fine mist of run enshrouded the area, and she could just barely make out a familar large stone. "We're almost there," she'd quietly assure her passenger.

Tarik's nose would begin to twitch. What was that odd scent? . . . it was getting more pungent step by step. It would be easy to deduce if he wasn't feeling so groggy. He'd blink and take a good whiff of it, mulling it over. Some sort of reptile. Probably male. Maybe a salamander. . no. . . no its. . . a snake. His eyes grew wide. This was getting to be dangerous territory, and as he looked around he'd begin to recognize it. The rat knew of safe areas to forage from living with his colony, and as such, knew the areas to avoid. . .and this one was brought up frequently. If the snake came out around here. . . all the mouse would have to do is drop him and run. . . and that would be that. "Uhh. . . L-lichthia. . ." his ears lowered, "I think. . . a snake lives. . . close by here. . ." He'd pause, his voice growing a bit quieter, to that of a whisper, "you should. . . go another way. . ."

Lichthia's heart was light as it always was as she made familiar last leg of her journey home. Ohhhhh, to be able to towel herself off! To be able to eat and drink! To be able to put this stupid rat down! Ears flattened at the rat's words. She wouldn't answer him at first. Just continued steping along the path that would lead to the hill she'd climb to get home.

"I know," she'd answer after a slightly unnaturally long pause. There'd be another pause as she kept on walking steadily.

The rat would get just a little impatient at the delay, his breaths growing a bit shorter again. When the reply came though. . . it wouldn't exactly put him at ease. If she knew, why wasn't she concerned? That alone wouldn't bring any sort of worry, but still, it was. . . strange. "You. .. do?" he'd ask quietly.

The mouse would nod. They were about half away along the path lalong the ridge that lead to the hill now. She was looking around, checking the surroundings. "More than likely, he's still away hunting," she'd say softly. "He doesn't hunt near the nest, cause prey know not t'come here." There'd be another pause and finally, "And if he his home, he won't be out in the rain. He'll be in the nest."

Hearing the new reply, Tarik tilted his head, and blinked. It didn't make sense. Why risk it, even if the snake might be away hunting. And, she seemed so certain about her words. His own colony shared similar information, but it wasn't nearly as thorough. And. . . if she was out-casted since winter like she said, she wouldn't have access to any sort of grape-vine of helpful information like that, even if she was with another mouse. Maybe just a strong assumption? Though, prey who make assumptions get weeded out pretty quick. "Well. . . e-even so. . . it would be. . . safer to go around. . ."

Lichthia nodded. She wasn't going to be able to keep the truth from him for much longer. Though the enigmatic nature of her words together with the fantastic nature of the truth might keep the rat in blissfful ignorance just a little while longer. "It would be. . ." she'd agree. ". . .only, we can't go around here to get home." She'd glance back up at him. "Cause this is my home."

The rat would blink again. "Why. . ." he'd almost interrupt, then quiet himself as she continued. "R-really?" he'd ask in disbelief as she went on. What kind of mice were crazy enough to live right by the home of a predatory python. It was insane. And now. . .he was going to have to take part in that risk. He'd start to grow more on edge, looking around more often. He'd try to calm himself, try to relax. Maybe. . . maybe they were taking advantage of serpent's territory . . trading the prospect of multiple predators being close by. . . for one. . . large. . . giant. . . rodent crushing. . . He'd shake his head, no one could be that crazy.

"Mmmmmm hmmm," she'd answer softly They were at the base of the hill that lead a short way up to the nest. She looked upwards at the familiar stone entrance above. Ordinarily it was a quick scamper up, but she wasn't going to enjoy the climb with the rat on her back. At least she could tell herself it was almost over. She lifted a food, and pushed herself up, grunting softly with the effort. Soon she was huffing and grunting, making her way up.

Tarik's mind continued to race. What on earth would make this mouse believe making a home here to be a good idea. Python's didn't hunt as often as other predators, that was true at least. . . but, what happens when smells some mice close by and then gets hungry? Snakes were stupid. . . but they could at least smell, and even if the two were careful, sooner or later they'd give themselves away. It didn't make sense. It just didn't. Two mice just couldn't survive like that. . .

The rat was rather quiet, but Lichthia could guess what was going through his mind. She smiled to herself, wondering what she would have thought if another mouse had ever tried to take her to her home by a snake's lair. Her smile widened. She would have thought she was insane! The rat's silence was easy to understand. Oh, they were almost there. She could see the ominous dark passage way beneath the sunning stone ahead. "Tarik," she said softly, "I never told you my love was a mouse."

Tarik was fidgeting more and more. They were getting. . . *gulp* really close. Making a burrow near a snake's nest. . . that alone was crazy. But. . . putting one next to the snake. . . were these mice suicidal!? He had gotten to the point of verbally stating such, but Lichthia's words would hit him first. "Wha. . . what do you. . . mean? . . ." If she wasn't staying with another mouse, what was she staying with?

Licthia didn't answer the rat's question immediately. Instead, she'd shove herself upwards, lifting the rat onto an rock projection and set him down. She'd sigh at being relieved, even temporarily, of her burden, and look towards the ominous entrance of the nest just ahead. Funny. A that dark crevice, terrifying to so many, was home to her.

As he was laid down, Tarik grew uneasy. He didn't like the idea of being on the ground with his paws tied: that alone was bad enough. . . but ooooh so close to a snake nest, that it worse. "W-wait. . . h-hey." The rat thouggt to speak his mind on this one, as he attempted to squirm . He'd take a breath, however. If he offended her, she could just leave him. Tarik was doubting her burrow was truly safe, no mater what she lived with, but anything was better than being outside a python's nest!

The mouse wouldn't look at the rat as he protested. Instead, she'd peer at the entrance and point. "Y'see those?" she'd ask. It would be more difficult for him to see, but even in the rain, even with a rat's poor eyesight, bright yellow wild flowers would be visible against the rock wall and the midst on either side of the nest's entrance.

As the mouse pointed, he'd huff and raise his head. Ooooh that was definately a snake's nest, thr smell was coming from there. His eyes narrowed and strained, what were those bright things next to it? He'd turn his head and blink. "I t-think. . . b-but. . . " his words would get a little short, he was clearly getting annoyed now. What was wrong with this mouse!? Didn't she have survival instincts? . . . Well. . . considering he was tied up and suffering from a head injury, she. . . would have to.

She'd turn her head back to the rat and continue. "Those are m'flowers," she'd tell him. There was a soft smile on her face, and a distant look in her eyes. "Jaabir used to tease me when I first put flowers out there." She'd give a half chuckle, eyes focusing on the rat. "He used t'tell me, Lichthia, how are prey going to be scared of me, if I have flowers outside my nest?"

"F-flowers? . . ." Why was the mouse showing him flowers? And. . . for that mater. . . if. . . they belonged to the mouse. . . why were they outside a snakes nest? He'd look up in confusion as she spoke of her companion. . . that. . . Jaabir. Before Tarik thought he was a mouse, but now he had no idea. And. . . of course whatever it was would say something about her picking flowers and putting them in-front of a snakes nest, it was insane. Then. . . his eyes grew wide. It was talking about. . . prey? "H-his. . . n-nest?" The rat would stare at the mouse with a growing look of terror. "Y-you. . . J-jaabir is. . ." *SQUEAL!* *SQUEAL!* *SQUEAL!* He'd pant wildly. Tarik would try to thrash now, but it wouldn't do much good, the bindings were too tight! Everything was hitting hard at once now: This crazy mouse was living with a python. Then. . . what did she mean about it hitting her with a stick. . . No wait, he assumed that. She only said. . . Jaabir would be. . . angry. . . and. . . would threaten him. . . if he was lucky. *SQUEEEEEEAL!* "L-l-let me go!"

The mouse would crouch down, an exasperated look on her face. She reminded herself he was terrified, she tried to be sympathetic, but she'd been terrified before herself, and she'd never carried on like this. She'd look for an opportunity and shout, "Y'keep squealin like that, and if Jaabir's anywhere nearby he'll come straight for you. . . . Squealin rodent's like a dinner bell to him. Now you calm down, or I'm gonna get a rock and brain you."

Tarik was shaking now. Everything was making more sense. The mouse wasn't trying to save him from being eaten by a larger predator. . . she was trying to make it happen! He'd close his eyes and try to stay calm, this doe was crazy but she was right: If the snake was in there, squealing might alert it. "B-brain? . . ." He'd whimper. The thought of being struck by a rock and tossed to a giant snake. . . he wouldn't put it past this one! At least if he was still conscience. . . he could reason with her! His eyes drifted over to the entrance. . . there. . . there didn't seem to be anything coming out. . . yet. There would be a few heavy breaths, before he looked back up to the mouse. "L-l-lichthia. . . I. . . I. . . p-p-please. . ." His ears lowered, and he spoke with a low squeaky whine.

The mouse's voice would resume it's gentle tone as the rat began to beg. "Tha's better," she'd say softly. It was odd. The more time she spent with Jaabir, the more she'd shared the consciousness of a pred. She'd felt a sort of pleasure before, surveying the rat's unconscious body, sizing him up as prey. It wasn't actually hunger; the thought of eating flesh herself would revolt her. It was the joy in the knowledge her python would soon be nourished and fed. But as much as she'd become like a pred in some ways, there was something with Jaabir she didn't share. The sigh of prey in terror or crying brought her no pleasure whatsoever, and likely it never would.

"Now just take a deep breath," she'd tell him. "Take it easy, breath slowly. . . . Now you got one chance and once chance only of gettin out of this mess y'got y'self into. I'm not gonna lie to you. It's not a very good chance, but it's better than the chance you'dve given me if you'd gotten y'teeth into me. But y'gotta be calm, and y'can't get hysterical. Now you ready t'listen?"

He'd stare with a ever growing sense of dread. Still, Tarik would try to listen closely to every word this mouse spoke. Everything was important now, as she clearly had the upper hand. If he otherwise made her angry. . . he'd be done for. There. . . there was still a chance if she was telling the truth, that alone would invoke a trickle of hope. And still, he had some confidence that reason was possible aside from that. Maybe she would see her actions were unnecessary and cruel? His head lowered as she reminded him of his own intentions, and he'd doubt his previous thought.

The rat shut his eyes and took a few breaths as directed. His lids lifted and he'd nod slowly without making direct eye contact. "Y-yes. . ." It was the sort of tone and demeanor used by rats to address a superior.

Looking down, the mouse would nod, satisfied. "Alright, I'm going to give you my word," she began. "And if you look back, I think you'll see, I've been honest with you," she'd continue. "I may not have told the whole truth. I didn't feel like I owed it to you, and I didn't want to have t'carry a hysterical rat all the way home. But I never lied. Even when I told you y'd be better off goin after easier prey, I was tellin y'the truth."

Tarik would still be looking down as he was spoken to. It was almost reflexive at this point. This mouse was over him: Technically he even lost a fight of dominance. He wanted to despise her even so, however. Wasn't she right? Wouldn't he have just killed her? No, this was crazy. This. . this isn't the same! Right? . . . He'd sigh. Nothing made sense anymore. The rat nodded his head to acknowledge Lichthia's words, cringing at the reminder, she warned him.

The mouse nodded again, satisfied. Her voice wasn't so gentle as before; soft, insistent, inexorable, it wasn't cruel either. "Alright. So this mornin Jaabir went out to hunt, and I went to find m'private burrow. When he gets real hungry, he can forget who I am. So I leave, stay away for a time, and come back when he's fed." She'd pause a moment, to let that in. "Now it's possible he caught somethin this morning. Maybe some squirrel, surprised by the rain, got snapped up makin a dash for a tree." She'd shrug. "It's possible."

The mouse would bow her head. She'd try to look into his eyes, but satisfied herself with looking at his eyebrows as he seemed to determine to look way. "Now I promise you, I give you my word. . ." she'd begin, a weight to her voice. "If it turns out Jaabir's already fed today, I will make certain he lets you go unharmed." She'd pause a moment. "He'll probably insist on given you a scare, makin it very clear to you what'll happen if you ever come after me again. But I promise you, if he's already fed, that's the worse that'll happen to you. And we'll let y'go home." She'd give a tentative smile. "And you'll even get nuts and berries t'eat."

His ears flicked as Lichthia explained herself. . . and stated her offer. So, she didn't go near the snake. . . when it was hungry. Ok, that. . . that made some sense. There was still plenty of things he didn't understand about this. . . relationship, but he was much more concerned about how to survive the ordeal. He'd lift his head some, a fair bit nervous that this little agreement hinged on something he had no control over. He'd be shaking.. . not at all wanting to meet an angry python. . . hungry or no. Still, the mouse. . . hadn't lied before, and. . . seemed sincere. His stomach would even give a grow at the subject of food. "And. . . i-if. . . h-he. . . h-hasn't. . . fed?" Tarik would swallow hard and wince, "y-you'll. . . l-let him. . . eat me?"

The mouse's eyes would lower, her gentle demeanor had returned. "I wouldn't dwell on that thought too much if I were you. Whatever happens, y'time here will be more pleasant if y'concentrate on hope." She'd sigh. "But yeah. M'love needs t'eat," she'd add simply. "Normally, I have a policy, I neither help him nor hinder him in his huntin." She'd give a small shrug. "But if someone tries t'make a meal of me, someone I did not provoke, someone whose attention I did not want, someone who I tried to warn away, well. . . " She'd look down. "That changes things."

The rat shut his eyes. How could this of happened? He never thought he'd of reached a lower point, after being forced to admit defeat to a colony leader and walking out with his ex-family spitting and hissing at him. But this. . . this was worse. He didnt like to think that his time miggt only be a few more hours. . . or less, but he wanted so much to have a little hope at least. And so, he'd nod sadly. If he listened. . . if he didnt get so eager. . . But, how could he know? Woukd any other rat have done diffrent? Somehow he doubted that mattered to her. "Lichthia I'm sor. . ." he'd lower his head again. "I. . ." His eyes would all but well-up now. "I was. . . just hungry. . ." He'd sniffle, getting to be a patheic sight for a wild rat. "I. . ." There would be a sad squeak then silence.

The mouse would sigh, staring at the rat. She rather wished he could be a little braver. "S'alright, I understand," she'd answer softly. She'd take a paw and gently stroke his head. "And I don't hold it against you," she'd add. "But I play by the rules. . ." she'd add softly, ". . . even when the rules usually aren't in my favor."

She'd sigh. "Alright, I'm real eager t'get inside, I think we'll both feel better when we towel off and have somethin t'eat," she'd continue, her voice carrying more energy. "But there's one last thing I gotta tell you, one last I gotta warn y'about first, just in case y'get any ideas."

The touch of the mouse's paw prompted a tiny whimper. It was just another reaction to losing status, signaling your submission and showing knowlege that you were 'weaker' as the one above held you and threatened with their claws and teeth. In quick relization she wasn't a rat nor trying to be intimidating, his head instead relaxed at the strokes and his breathing regulated. He'd just keep nodding as she spoke.

At the suggestion of going inside, his eyes went wide, even before the suggestion of yet another thing that could spell bad news. "w-what. . . is. . . th-that?"

The mouse would pat the rat's shoulder, her voice firm, matter of fact, but unthreatening. "When y'meet Jaabir," she'd begin, "Y'might get what you think is a real clever idea." She'd take a breath; she didn't want to scare him even more than he was already scared, but she had a sense of how he thought, and she felt she had to warn him , just in case. "It might occur to you. . . . that you could save your life. . . by convincin Jaabir I'd make a better meal for him than you." She'd pause a moment to let that sink in, gazing at him steadily.

Tarik stared out, looking to the snake nest and invisioning this python, hungry and agressive. The idea spoken by the mouse would quickly start to run free in his mind. That didnt sound like a terrible thing to try if nothing else worked. It was certainly true after all, he was scrawny and she was. . . not as scrawny. Though, judging by the way she said it. . . he couldnt shake the feeling that would be unwise. Maybe she didnt want him to suggest it because she knew it could work? It. . seemed doubtful. "Th-that. . ." he'd swallow, "wouldn't. . . work. . . would it?"

For a moment, the mouse would just stare at the rat, her face unreadable. Suddenly she'd let out a snort of laughter. Smiling, chuckling, she'd shake her head. "No it wouldn't," she'd answer. Calming down, still smiling, she'd look straight at him. "You see, when that bright idea occurs to you, the thing you will not understand. . . .the thing you cannot understand. . . the thing you will find almost impossible to believe. . . . ." She'd let the words hang for a moment. ". . . is that Jaabir loves me, every bit as much as I love him." She'd look at him, fully aware what she said would be unbelievable to him, but she had to warn him. "You do that. . ." she'd finally continue, her smile having faded, ". . . and I will not be responsible for what he does to you."

The rat blinked and slowly went limp. The laughter certainly wasnt helping with his current state of hopelessness. He'd raise his eyes again when she calmed, and. . . slowly tilted his head. "L-loves? but. . . " Lichthia was correct, he certainly couldnt comprehend such a thing. After all, it would be more likely for a rat to love a mouse, they were closer in species after all. . . and even that was unheard of. He'd gulp and go quiet as she implied the concquences for atempting this 'clever' idea. She. . . seemed confident. "I. . . I. . ." hed whimper. A snake was bad. A hungry snake was worse. So was an angry snake. But. . . an angry hungry snake was absolutely terrifying! "I won't!" he'd cry out and tuck his head down, staring at the grass. "thank you. . ." he'd mutter.

The intensity of the rat's response surprised the mouse. Ok, if he did do something foolish, well she'd warned him as best she could. The thanks would also catch her by surprise, and elicit a smile. "Y'welcome," she'd answer softly, and look up at the nest. She'd put a gentle pa on the rat's forearm. "Alright. . ." she'd say softly, "I can't imagine Jaabir's home after y'did all that squealin. But I'm gonna go and make sure." She'd push herself upwards. "Soon as I'm sure it's empty, we'll see about gettin outa the rain, toweled off, and get somethin t'eat." As she rose, she'd open her bag, and pull the robes over her head. It wasn't ideal, she was soaked after all, and now the robes would be wet too. But even thought it was unlikely, she'd go forth as though Jaabir was home. And as he was hungry and hunting, that meant wearing robes. Anyway, even soaked, it felt good to pull them on. Under ordinary circumstances, she'd never have stayed furclad in the company of a pred, even a pred trussed up and destined to be her python's supper.

Tarik shivered. Oooh he didn't want that snake to be inside. He'd whimper and nod again. "If. . , if he is. . ." the rat would start to look a little teary now. "C-could. . . we t-talk. . . f-first. . ." He'd sniffle and look away, dreading the thought this snake might be home and his life could be over in a mater of minutes.

As she moved away he'd sigh, catching a gilmsp of her form before she slipped the robes on. . . prompting yet another growl. He'd try to take his mind off eating and instead focus on survival. Maybe he could just. . . wiggle free while she was away. Tarik began to squirm, tried to raise his head enough to bite himsekf free. . . but nothing was working. He'd pout and role to his side.

The mouse would clamber up to the entrance beneath the sunning rock. "Nothin more t'talk about, I think," she'd call back. "But don't worry, I doubt very much he's here. Y'were makin a lotta noise." Oh, it sure was nice not having to carry the rat up with her! Of course she'd have to eventually, but for the moment, she'd roll her shoulders, feeling relief in her aching muscles. "Jaabir? Y'home?" she'd call out, keeping distance from the entryway, peering back and forth in case he were coiled behind it. Seeing nothing, she would glance back to the rat who was wriggling around. She'd roll her eyes. She could threaten to brain him again, but she was tired of threatening him. Besides, she'd been thorough; there were plenty of redundant strands of twine tying him to the staff, he wouldn't get away in the short time it would take her to make sure the nest was empty. "Jaabir?" She'd call out. Ok, the entryway was safe, so she'd come close enough to it to scan the inside of the nest. Conceivabley he could be asleep, dead to the world with the cold. But no, the nest was empty.

"Alirght," she'd call out, jumping back down, happy to see the rat had seemingly given up. Still, she'd do a quick inspection of the knots before picking him up. . .one last time, she'd remind herself. "it's empty, le's get out of the rain!" She'd announce, making her way up.

There would be a low whimper in response to Lichthia's answer. Tarik gulped. 'Don't let him be there. Don't let him be there. Don't let him be there.' As she poked in, the rat would secretly hope that she was just crazy, and if the snake was home. . . he would only wake up in a state of confusion, devour her, and go back to sleep. At her call, he'd feel relief. . . but now wishes the other senerio had run its course. "ok. . ." he'd mumble as he was lifted. At least. . . he'd be dry. Even at her comfirmation, getting closer to the snake nest certainly made Tarik uncomfortable. He might not get eaten right away. . . but there was the possibility he might never come out of that nest again, which made it frightening in its own right. As they moved inside he'd tense as if trying to raise his paws up, try to cling to the entrance, but. . . of course that wasnt possible with his arms tied down. Instead there would be a sad quiet "*squeeek. . ..*" of stress.

As the mouse trudged inside with the rat on her back, she'd feel his arm muscles spasm. She'd look to the rat, then look back at the ceiling, remembering how it had been covered in scratches, before she'd polished the stone. She'd turn her head back forward, and carry the rat inside. How funny that this pair of potential claw marks had been added by her. "S'alright, no snake in here just now," she'd remind him. "Though most rodents do find it scary." She thought of telling him about the claw marks. . . but no, that wouldn't make him feel better. Instead she'd continue, "I was scared m'self when I first came here. Got butterflies in m'stomach just lookin at the entryway." She'd smile and set the rat down on the softest part of the nest. He'd feel and smell her fur beneath him, as well as the stench of the snake of course. He might detect a hint of rabbit as well. "I was very proud of m'self when I was able t'walk in on m'own two feet," she'd continue, walking to the wall, and returning to the rat with a dry cloth in her paws. She was wet, tired, and hungry, but he was her guest, and so she'd look after him first; she'd begin towelling off his head. "He offered to bring me in his coils, the way he brought in most prey, but I wanted t'do it m'self," she'd finish.

Tarik shut his eyes, and began panting hard. He was so was scared! His nose caught the various scents, but the ordor of the python was all but overwelming and then some. He'd even scrunch his face and wince, before offering a tiny sneeze. His eyes lifted again as he was sat down and he'd look about. . . eyes staring in terror at the distinctive paterns made along the grass bedding. Yeah, he was in a snake's nest. His nose began to process the other smells a bit more thoroughly as he listened, it was habit more than anything. . . but it did give him something to do. The mouse's smell was strong as well, he'd pick up on that right away. Then. . . a lingering scent of rabbit, probably the snake's last meal, he'd reason. There was also a fair bit of other smells, other past snake meals still detectable by his sensitive nose. There was. . . a squrriel. A bird. . . blue jay? Another rabbit. A. . . fish? He'd blink. And. . . *gulp* a rat. . . a large one even. If the python ate that one. . . he'd have no trouble with him. He'd whimper once more, before locking eyes with Lichthia as she finished her story he was only half paying attention to. He'd nod and lean forward to the towel. "If. . . if. . . he d-didnt. . . eat you. . ." he'd slowly lift his head, "is t-there a c-chance. . . he'd. . . let me live? " He'd shiver, "If he's. . . hungry I mean. . ."

The mouse would shrug her shoulders, while rubbing his neck. "Anything's possible," she'd say softly. That was literally true. She'd certainly been surprised many times in her life, you could never know anything for sure. But then of course, just because it was possible didn't mean it was the least bit likely. She couldn't imagine Jaabir sparing a rat who'd tried to eat her if he was hungry. She figured she'd have her work cut out to keep her word and get him to spare the rat even if he wasn't hungry. But anything was possible, and she wasn't going to crush his hopes, when they were all he had.

"I sure wasn't expecting him to spare me when he caught me," she'd continue smiling, a lilt to her voice. "I got careless in m'foragin. Found a bush with some berries that were just ripe! I started to enjoy them. Next thing I knew I was coiled up tight, and a giant python was smiling at me, very happy to have met me!"

The mouse laughed, working her way down the rats arms. "He was polite!" she declared. "He called me miss Mouse. And he offered me a choice!" she averred. "If I was scared, he could end it quickly for me. Break m'back for I knew what happened, n'eat me. Or. . . ." She grinned. "If I preferred, we could have a nice little chat. And then he'd eat me when we were done."

Tarik seemed just a little more at ease at the rubs and assurances. It. . . it was possible. He might be ok even if the snake hadn't made a catch. If it happened once for the mouse. . . it could happen for him. The rat even smiled just a little as the mouse told her tale, before. . . frowning. It would be the prospect of having his back snapped like a twig that tore him away from any sense of comfort. Still. . . apparently the snake liked. . . to talk? That was odd. . . but if that could save him he'd just have to keep talking! "S-so. . . you. . . convinced him. . . to. . . not eat you?" It was obvious why the rat was asking, he was looking for tactics!

"Not exactly!" the mouse answered. She knew full well what the rat was up to of course, and she knew it was useless. But it was harmless. .. even beneficial to have working over such plans rather than stewing in despair. At least it gave her someone to talk to before Jaabir came home. "I did ask if he'd let me go of course, and he said no, which I figured he would." Now she was working over the rat's belly and back. Half of him was nearly dry; she wished she could say the same for herself; the those robes were wet and cold. "I didn't ask again, cause I figured there was no point. I think he took that in my favor, cause I was dignified in acceptin my fate, not beggin or grovelin when he'd already said no." The mouse smirked to herself. Fat chance of the rat following that bit of advice.

The answer wasn't exactly what he was hoping for. He'd of preferred something more like, "I just told him I was sick. . ." or "he bought this sob story I made up." Those he could work with. But. . . he couldn't see the logic of showing acceptance in being eaten. . . to avoid being eaten! That. . . that couldn't be right. "A- accepting? . . ." he'd question with a tone of confusion.

The mouse would look up, a confused look in her eyes mirroring the confusion in the rat's tone. "Yeah. . . " she'd answer, trying to comprehend what the rat was asking. She'd look down again, giving a half shrug of her shoulders as she worked on drying the rat's feet. "I told you I play by the rules," she'd remind him.

"He was a snake," she'd continue hesitantly, trying to explain something so obvious to her, it seemed hardly require explanation. "I was a mouse. . . . his prey. Course I asked him t'let me go. But I wasn't expectin him t'say yes. He needed to eat. Why should he let me go? He caught me fairly. If he let me go, he'd have t'eat some other prey, just as deservin of life as me."

Tarik's eyes would still look a bit lost. And his head ears flickered, as if trying to discern what this silly mouse was going on about. What rules? Was there some sort of hand-out for hunting that he had missed while keeping to his colony? As she went on, his ears fell. That. .. made a little more sense. Still, it bothered him. . . although it wasn't stated, he felt like she was applying that same for him. And. . . considering this mouse didn't feel another prey was more deserving to take anothers place. . . he especially doubted an exception being made to something that tried to eat her. "O. . . oh. . ." he'd mumble.

The mouse would continue working on the rat's other leg; she was nearly done drying him. "Sides," she'd continue, soft smile on her face, "Why would I wanna spend the last minutes of m'life beggin?" She'd ask, giving a half shrug.

At the question he'd turn his head down, looking to her as she worked at him. "A-anything. . to. . ." He'd sigh, "to. . . try to survive . . ." Tarik frowned.

The mouse would smile and nod. Well that did actually make sense to her. "Well yeah!" she'd agree, some energy to her voice. "But do you really think that would work?" She'd look up at the rat, a mischievous smile on her face.

The rat sighed, not answering her question and instead just dwelling on it, mulling it over. Though, the look in his eyes would indicate doubt.

Licthia would smile, finishing up drying the rat. After a short while, she'd continue in a soft voice, "Since I started ivin with Jaabir, I've learned more what the world is like for a pred." Her smile would widen. "Y'got any idea how many prey he's heard beggin?" The mouse would laugh, letting go fo the cloth, and lifting her paws to her chest. Then she'd put on a mock pathetic face and pout, "Please, please, Mr. Python. please don't eat me! I gotta husband at home. I gotta wife, I got 20 children, they'll be lost without me." She laughed again. It was funny, how even her sense of humor had become sympathetic towards preds.

Tarik only continued to frown. It was probably true, just judging by the amount of smells he picked up. . . this snake probably devoured tons of prey. . . who all squealed for their life. While Lichthia found the prospect a bit amusing, the rat certainly did not, instead sighing sadly.

Suddenly the mouse's face would freeze, and she'd look back at the rat, a look of revelation covering her face. "Hell you're a pred!" she'd exclaim. Well, rats were sort of semi-preds, they were in an in-between state in her book. "Suppose you'd gotten me down on the ground, nice helpless plump mouse! So soft with fat underneath y'paws. Suppose I'd looked up at you, and I'd said, 'Please, please, Mr. Rat! I gotta friend back at home. He loves me so much! It'll destroy him if I'm gone! Please please please let me go." Unlike her earlier faux pleading, there was subtle soft undercurrent of sincerity to her voice, as she'd tapped into something. Jaabir really would be destroyed if she were gone. "What would you have done?" she'd ask, picking up the cloth and walking back to the corner, towards the bags of food. She didn't need to wait for an answer. She already knew, and so did he.

His head would pull back, at the sudden exclamation. He'd even wince, almost fearful she was about to strike him. He take a breath and start to settle as she went on, but if offered the choice of the mouse thinking about the proposed scenario. . . or another thwack with the stick. . . it might make survival more likely to pick the stick. The last thing he wanted was for her to feel even less sympathy for him. "I. . ." He'd sigh and try to think about it. How would he have responded to her pleas? "I. . ." The rat looked down. "I don't. . . know. . ." His eyes shut, and reopened with a small swelling of tears. He'd look away. "I. . . don't. . . usually hunt. . ."

The mouse returned, lugging a lumpy looking bag with her as well as a fresh cloth. "Ahhhhhhhhhhhh," she'd answer, and she'd a comforting paw on his shoulder. "That explains it," she'd say softly. She'd reach into the bag and pull out a walnut and crack it with her teeth, pulling out the meat and holding it up to the rat's muzzle, offering it to him. "Bad luck y'started with me," she'd add sympathetically. "Still," she'd add, a note of optimism to her voice, "If y'lucky, and make it out of this alive, you'll have learned a lesson I think!"

He'd continue to look off, a single ear flicking as she approached. The paw helped, but he wasn't even sure why. Then. . . his nose twitched quite rapidly. He could smell. . . walnut. He'd blink and turn his eyes to her, his maw parting with just a little drool forming on his lips. Ooooh he was hungry. Hesitantly, he'd lean forward, doing so careful so the mouse wouldn't mistake him as trying to bite her. Lightly his teeth closed around the nut, and he'd start to chew. "m m m. . ." His teeth would lightly brux, creating a small chattering sound that indicated pleasure or comfort from a rodent. He'd swallowed, and look back to her, nodding slowly. "I. . . wouldn't. . . hunt again. . ." Tarik paused, "thank. . . you. . ."

The mouse smiled as the rat began to eat. True, she was more than likely going to feed to a python before the day was over. But she much preferred doing good to furres rather than harm, and it made her happy inside to hear him enjoying the food, to know she was offering him a little solace in what was more than likely his last hours of life. She'd smile at his declaration, though it also made her sad. She doubted very much it was true, but she was sure he believed it was true. And while he might not hunt again, well, she was hunting him now. Y'welcome," she'd say softly, pulling out another nut, and offering it to him.

"There's plenty of food here, nuts n'berries, mostly," she'd continue. "Oh, water too of course!" she'd add. Her smile would widen and she'd add, "It's the one of the very nice things bout havin a huge python as y'best friend. It makes it real easy t'forage for food!"

He'd look over to the new offering, and moving his muzzle forward as before, though not quite as hesitantly. Still, he'd make no attempt to snap at her. Taking the new walnut in his maw he'd chew a bit more slowly, eyes shut as he did. He'd raise an eye to her, and swallow the mouthful. "I guess. . . that. . . would be nice. . " Tarik would admit, looking down at his stomach.

---

The mouse would get up and walk over towards the bags again. This time she'd return with some berries. She'd offer him one, and as these were easy to eat and she was hungry herself, she'd quickly snap up another for herself. "So. . . . " she'd venture. "I assume y'wanna hear the rest of the story?" she'd ask. "How I happen t'be here, feedin y'nuts and berries, and not digested long ago in a hungry python's coils?"

He'd look up at her, his eyes tired. "To be honest. . ." he'd say softly, "I'd. . . rather just go home. . ." Tarik frowned. "But. . . ok. . ." The rat slowly opened his maw and looked over to the bag of nuts again.

Licthia would nod and sigh. He didn't need to beg Jaabir, she realized. He only needed to convince her. It would be. . . a little dangerous for her to let him go. She was committed to spending the night in the nest with Jaabir now, something she normally wouldn't do. . . .unless he'd eaten. A little dangerous but. . . . ..she'd talked Jaabir down before when he was hungry. She patted his shoulder and cracked another nut to feed him. No, she wasn't going to free him. And it wasn't because of the danger to herself, it was because her python needed to eat, and why shouldn't it be him? She wasn't going to free him. And she wasn't going to be a hypocrite either. She wasn't going to tell him she was sorry.

"Well, I wasn't gonna beg for m'life," she continued. "And I was more than willin t'chat!" She'd sigh. "After bein alone for so long, I was very happy t'finally find someone to talk to. . ..even it was a hungry python who I was expecting to end my life." She'd pop another berry in her mouth. She could eat those without neglecting the rat. "And he told me that while he was hungry, he'd actually eaten not that long ago, so he wasn't as hungry as he might be." She smiled. "So I asked him if he'd consider lettin me have another day 'for he took me." Her smile broadened. "I even suggested he could enjoy me better when he was real hungry. We had a long conversation. . I explained I was an outcast, and offered to show him m'burrow, so he could easily catch me if I tried to renege." Her smile broadened even more. "And to my great surprise and delight, he offered me three days!"

Reaching forward to take the next nut. Tarik would continue to eat and enjoy the only bit of comfort he had right now. His ears continued to twitch and flick as she spoke, he was certainly listening but. . . he was looking if not a little distant. On occasion he'd turn his head and nod slowly. It. . . was making a little sense to him. He'd nod without speaking a word. She knew begging was useless so she just sought to live a little longer. Still, it wouldn't do much to ease the tension for him. Did she. . . just get lucky? He. . . wasn't having his fair share of luck lately, so wouldn't look very optimistic. Still, although not usually as kind, rats were social, just like mice, and at least hearing her talk made him feel a little calmer.

As Lichthia spoke, she'd straighten, and her gaze would drift to the entrance to the nest. She'd lean forward slightly, and spread her ears. She opened her mouth as though to speak, but then closed it. She didn't say anything, but would quickly continue the story. She wasn't going to worry the rat, but she realized, it wasn't raining anymore. How long had it been? She'd expect Jaabir to use the lull in the storm to come home while he could avoid the rain.

"Anyway, over that time, we got to be friends." She'd continue the story, more to distract Tarik, to keep him from noticing the change in weather worrying, than anything else.She'd walk back over to a corner of the room as she spoke, take off her wet robe, and put on a dry one. She'd been so busy looking after her 'guest', she'd never gotten round to towelling herself, though she was only damp by now. She knelt down a little distance from the rat. If Jaabir came home, she'd want to see him first, and warn him what he'd find. Occasionally she'd give surreptitious glances out the entryway.

"I can't tell you exactly how it happened, it just did." She'd sigh. "Jaabir said he liked me, cause I was selfless. And cause I didn't blame him for what he was, or what he was gonna to me. I spoke to him like a person, not some sort of monster. . .or god. And I liked him, cause even though he was a python, underneath he was so sweet. Even when he was going to eat me, he still cared for me. He saw me as a person." She'd sigh at the memory, taking a surreptitious glance towards the entryway.

Tarik would seem too focused on eating to notice the change in weather, and the story would serve as an added distraction. He'd raise up and look to Lichthia, with some of the nut still in his mouth. This part seemed important, how they became. . . 'friends'. But. . . of course the mouse couldn't give an explanation there, and in hearing that, his ears initially fell. Still, the words would trickle in, and it made him a little less nervous to hear her refer to his nature as 'sweet'. Though, this rat wasn't sure he could trust her opinion of the serpent's personality. He'd swallow the nut, and lick at his muzzle, raising his paws reflexively to clean. . . but. . . would only make a small squirm. He'd sigh.

The mouse would hesitate a moment. She wanted a view outside. Well. . . .she was pretty sure Jaabir wasn't out there yet, and it was a fair distance, assuming he came along the pond. She'd rise up and walk over to the rat, kneeling above his head. Then with a few motions, she'd groom his whiskers. As she did so, she'd sahke her head.

"And then somehow the tables got turned. We cared for each other so much, each one of us began to care for the other's life more than our own. Jaabir got hurt, bad enough he couldn't hunt and was gonna starve." Her voice would be soft and she'd look at the rat. "And I begged him t'eat me, to save his life. And he begged me to leave, to save m'own." She'd smile looking down. "That's the short version of what happened."

As she moved near and placed a paw on him, Tarik would be just a little surprised. There would even be a tiny squeak. He'd blink and look to her with a tilted head. At realization she was cleaning him off, he'd close his eyes move his head down a bit lower.

He'd just sit there, quietly, taking in the story. It. . . was an interesting story. Something that one wouldn't think possible, and yet, would have to be true. But. . . he was just a little preoccupied in his thoughts to look especially interested. When the mouse implied she not only 'accepted' being eaten but. . . asked, he'd look have a face of genuine shock. Could this be any more unbelievable? Maybe. . . he was dreaming, just delusional from being hit too hard with that stick? He'd try to pinch himself. . . but given the bindings, that didn't work.

The mouse would smile downwards seeing the look of disbelief on the rat's face. She wasn't at all surprised. She knew that by the standard of just about any species of rodent, she was insane. She'd rise up to her feet again and frown, her paw reaching for the air. Something was wrong. Something was missing. Something. . . . .She'd look downwards. Oh yeah of course. Her staff. It was doing its job, keeping the rat from bending over to be able to manipulate his bonds, but she missed having in her paw

She 'd sigh, walking back again, surreptitiously looking out the entrance as she turned. "As it happened, neither one of us had t'die," she continued. "We got lucky. An enterprisin owl thought I'd make a nice lookin catch. . . . came to close to the nest. . . and Jaabir was able t'eat." She'd smile. That had not been entirely honest, but Tarik was nowhere near ready for the full version of that story, plus that was one she still wouldn't share with just anyone.

He'd take a breath, and shake his head. Tarik wasn't about to accuse her of being mad. And would instead say, "that. . . was. . . fortunate for you. . ." The rat looked up and his eyes would follow her.

The mouse would swallow and nod. "It was fortunate for both of us, " she'd add. She'd sigh and glance out the door again. Nope still not there. "But nothin's changed since then," she'd answer. " would still give my life for his in a second. I wouldn't even have to think."

He'd continue to listen, just looking distant. . . sad. As she spoke her finally statement, that she'd still sacrifice herself, he'd get that look of shock and bewilderment again. And it would only fade. . . but instead. . . grew more intense. By looking to the mouse, even with his sight so poor, would notice the rain that ceased falling. And. . . he was shaking hard now. "Y-y-yeah. . ." He'd shut his eyes and start breathing harder. His mind was clearly racing, trying to piece together anything it could manage.

"L-l-lichthia. . ." He'd look up to her again. "I. . . I. . ." He'd swallow. "My. . . my d-den. . . isn't far from here. . . you. . . c-could. . . s-stay there. . . w-we could. . . get there. . . before. . . its dark.' There would be a look of desperation in his eyes. "I. . . w-wouldn't. . . h-hurt you. . ." He'd look down, as if to acknowledge why she might think otherwise. "I. . . don't know. . . w-what I. . . would of d-done to you. . . " His eyes teared up, "but. . . I. . . I think. . . I. . . know I wouldn't. . . of. . . k-killed you. . . right away." He'd pause at saying that, as if questioning if those were the right words to use. The rat sighed and shook his head. "I'd. . . of. . t-talked. . . and. . ." He'd lift his head up and lock eyes with her, "all I wanted. . . was food. . . if. . . you g-gave me some. . . I. . . I w-wouldn't of. . . of. . ." His ears fell.

Lichthia would kneel on the ground, and her face would be impassive. But at the rat began to shake, she felt an ache in her chest, an ache slowly spread through her body. Oh, she was a lousy pred! How did they do it? How did Jaabir bear it? It hit her then. That predatory lust, the primitive joy even the serpent took in the tears and terror of his prey. It was necessary. How could he bear their terror and their pleas otherwise. As he spoke, she'd start to feel better. The poor fellow, he was incompetent at everything, wasn't he? Yeah, like she was really going to untie him and run back with him and sleep in his den. His protest ration he wasn't really going to pred her made it worse.

"This isn't about vengeance," she'd say softly. "Y'think I hate you, cause y'tried t'pred me?" she'd ask. "Jaabir intended to pred me. If he'd caught me just two days later, he likely would have. And I love him more than I can imagine lovin any other furre," she'd say softly. "M'love needs t'eat," she'd say simply. "But if he's already caught somethin, he will do you no harm."

Tarik would stare with a sense dread, nervously nodding his head at her question. Then. . . swallowing hard as she corrected his thoughts. She wasn't mad. . . she. . . just wanted to feed her. . . giant python. His eyes shut, and he'd turn away from her whimpering. He was sooooo scared. "I. . ." Even his tail was shaking now. "no. . ." he'd mutter. "no. . . no. . ."

The mouse would sigh. Maybe she was a good pred after all. It was painful for her, but Jaabir would be out of his mind when he came home, she'd terrified the poor rat senseless. She'd glance at the entryway again, wishing the python would come home. This was torture. Well, not as bad for her as for the rat, but she hated it all the same. She wished she could think of something to calm him down. She wondered if another sharp blow to the head would be a kindness by this point. "Ywant some more walnuts?" she'd ask softly. Yeah it was pathetic, but she was running out of ideas. "Do rats have stories?" she'd try. "Y'know we mice tell stories, bout the animals we see in the stars. Legends and heroes and such." But was she even a mouse anymore? she wondered. Would a mouse do this to a rat? She'd played with death, she realized. She'd played with the deepest darkest nightmare's of the rodent psyche, and learned to make her home with them. She didn't fear them any longer, and just by speaking, she could fill another rodent with terror.

At the offer, his head moved around slowly, his eyes lifted, his lids raised half way, and some fresh tears began to well. Then. . . he'd shake his head. He'd continue to look forward, and. . . start to nod. Tarik gave a small, soft, "yes. . ." He'd sigh. "we do. . ." The rat started to open his mouth to speak again, but no words would come. A short pause later, he'd try again. "Tarik. . ." he'd say softly. "It means. . . morning star. . ."

The mouse would lean forward hopefully when the rat began to respond. Oh this was good, this seemed to help. She stayed silent as he fought to speak. She was scared to share her own stories. . . they were mostly about preds. "Morning star?" she'd ask, smiling. "Y'mean that really bright star, last one y'see after all the other's have faded with the sun?" she'd ask.

He'd blink slowly, and nod his head. "Y-yes. . ." The rat sighed. "It's. . . in. . . most of our stories. . ." Tarik would look away, seeming troubled by a new thought. "it. . . stands for. . . hope. . ."

"Hope?" the mouse would reply. Well, she imagined there was no one who could use hope than the poor defenseless rat stretched out in the nest. She thought of saying so, but maybe that wouldn't help. "S'a good name!" she'd declare instead. "How'd hope and you get named after a star?" she'd ask.

"thanks. . ." he'd mutter. At the question, Tarik looked up and stared. It was such a common prospect in his colony it felt odd that the reasoning wasn't already known or otherwise easy to infer. "It's. . . the. . . last star. . . when. . . all the others are gone. . . it. . . keeps the sky from being too dark. . . before the sun rises. We. . . " he'd sigh, "they felt it. . . represents hope. . . that. . . even when. . . things get dark. . . there's. . . still some light." The rat raised his eyes at that thought, starting to see how this applied to his current situation. He'd take a breath, "The litter. . . I was born into. . . they all got sick and died. . . but me." The rat locked eyes, "That's why. . . they named me Tarik."

The mouse nodded and listened. She was glad that talking seemed to calm him. It had been wrong, perhaps, to speak directly to him as he begged, reinforcing his fears. It was better to distract him, to look at a picture that when beyond his own seemingly narrow immediate future. As he locked eyes, the mouse would look back kindly, unperturbed, and yet unyielding. "S'a good name," she'd answer. "We mice don't have names like that. Least not in the colony I came from." She'd sigh. "LIchthia doesn't mean nothin. . . .'xept me. . . We do have names of heroes of the past. . . Jorick primarily among them. . . . but I don't think no one would name their child Jorick."

Tarik nodded again, looking if not a little less terrified for the moment. He'd listen quietly to the mouse speak of her own colony. Hearing the mouse's name spoken once more, he'd regard it as unusual, much in the way one might regard a name from another culture. He wouldn't imply such of course. He was in enough trouble as it was! "Jorick? . . ." he'd repeat, blinking as he did. That one sounded similar to his own. The rat looked back over to the entrance, the feeling of dread was coming back now, but. . . he was almost too tired to try begging again, and it showed in his eyes. He'd take another breath, and look down. "You. . . have no reason to trust me. . . but. . . I. . . would. . . t-tell you more stories. . . and. . . listen to yours. You. . . could keep my. . . arms tied too. . ." He'd shake his head sadly, "I. . . don't blame you either. . . Lichthia."

Lichthia smiled slightly. It was a pity, it seemed, that he hadn't tried to pred her on her way to visit the owl. He might have been able to buy his life with those stories from Morathi. She'd get up and have a closer look out the entryway, just to make sure she hadn't missed the python before. She didn't like making Tarik nervous, but if the python were to enter the nest unawares with the smell of the rat's terror so strong, well, she was worried he might end up eating her staff. "If Jaabir's been lucky with his huntin,' she'd say softly, "then you and I will have plenty of time to trade stories in the future. She'd turn and smile. "Even if I was so inclined, I don't think I could carry y'all the back." She'd tilt her head. "I'm kind of beat actually."

He'd watch as she kept checking outside. And each time, would shut his eyes firm, breathing deep as she stepped back in. Her answer to his restated offer didn't provide much encouragement. Tarik sighed and nodded, he wasn't expecting much else from her, but it was still upsetting. Would he of given the mouse some symphany and let her free instead of biting her neck, eating his fill, and storing the remains? . . . He wasn't sure. As hungry as he was. . . he was still a social creature, and, even in his state of fear. . . words were calming: Maybe he would have settled for talking? Tarik raised an eye, swallowing some. "If you. . . untied just my legs. . . I. . . could walk. . . and. . . you could tie my mouth. . . so. . . I'd have no choice. . . I couldn't try to bite free. . ." Before hearing an answer he'd rest his head down and shut his eyes.

Inwardly, the mouse felt she was beginning to understand why Morathi had told her he seldom talked to prey, and when he did, they rarely anything worthwhile to say. She just couldn't win. When she told the rat the varnished truth, he cowered in complete terror. When she humored him, pretending to reason with him, he'd just keep on arguing. When she tried to distract him, well that worked for a while, but he just kept coming back to the same thing. She couldn't blame him, he just wanted to live. On the other hand, she'd never carried on like this when she'd been on the wrong end of the food chain. Or Jack! The poor rabbit had been so scared, and yet all he did was beg for a last berry. And unlike rat, Jack hadn't even tried to eat the fox he was begging from! She was running out of ideas for what to do. Actually, changing the subject to something pleasant had worked better than anything else.

"Jorick's a hero of m'people," she'd say softly, returning to the previous subject as though they'd never left it. He's kind of a legend. . . . a model. . .of what mice should be." She'd look out the entryway and look up at the sky. "At night, y'can see him in the sky, in the stars. He's mischievious. He's a trickster. Of course he fights for his people, but sometimes he'll sneak into the farmer's larder, or play tricks on the slower preds." She'd smile. "Y'got any stories 'bout rats like that?" she'd ask. "What are your heros like?"

The rat would keep his eyes closed and his head laid down. His ears flickering would be the only sign he was still very much awake and listening. He'd give a simple nod of the head, sighing deeply. "Y-yeah. . ." yeah finally say, before lifting his head again and looking to her. "They. . . they are often strong. . . quick. . . and wise. . ." At reciting the three fundamental qualities valued by rats. . . Tarik looked down at his binding. . . with a big frown.

Nearby, the tan python trudged along slowly in the mud. Being a cold-blooded creature, he much preferred hunting in the warmth of the sun. One can only imagine his displeasure when the sun was blocked out by the clouds, with cold wet raining pouring out from them. The current situation was bad enough, but now he wouldn't even have a warm mouse to curl up with, no fuzzy bunny either. He'd hiss at nothing in particular as he approached a familiar hill. Jaabir paused and looked over his pound, before slithering a faster pace. After all, the storm could start up again any time.

Licthia nodded, listening to Tarik. Strong, quick and wise? She was getting a better respect for rats at least. She hoped she'd never end up in this situation again, but if it ever did happen, she'd remember this way of calming a prey. Why what Tarik was saying was actually getting interesting again. Seeing him looking downwards, she'd take the opportunity to look out the entryway again. Her eyes quickly caught the movement coming up towards the hill. It was Jaabir! And he was coming fast. She was a little disappointed she wouldn't get to hear more about the three virtues, but nevertheless she sure was happy to see him.

"Jaabir!" she'd call out brightly. "It's me, Lichthia." When he was in his more primal states, she'd noticed her name sometimes helped bring him back. "I need you to stop where you are a moment!" she'd call out. "There's somethin I need to tell you for you come up here."

The serpent raised his head. His tongue flicking out. Why did he taste rat in the air? His scales shook a bit. A very. . . very scared rat. "Hissss. . . ." He'd then hear a familiar squeaky voice. "Lichthia? . . ." he'd say softly, a bit confused. Why was his mouse coming to see him now? She had just left that morning. They had both agreed it was getting to be too risky again and she was going off to stay with the rabbit. Still, he couldn't deny his excitement. If there was ever a time he could use a soft warm mouse, this would certainly be one of them. He'd move a bit closer, "Greetingssss!" There would be a large grin, "Didn't except to ssssee you. . .!" He'd raise his head and tilt some, "what do you mean . . . !"

Tarik would start to talk about the rat heros. . . thinking a story through in his mind first. Then. . .his ears drooped. . . lower than would seem possible, as if they were about to fall off his head. "J-j-j. . ." he'd swallow hard and tremble. She was talking to the snake! It was here! "L- l -lichthia. . . !" he'd stammer and whine. "P-p-please. . . u-un. . .t-t-t-tie me. . . " He'd start to pant. "PLEASE!"

The mouse grinned from ear to ear, standing on the lip just outside the entrance to the den. Any guilt she may have felt, any remorse she might have held onto was entirely forgottten at the sight of her love come home. Not even the increasingly cries of the rat close behind her troubled her joy at his return. "Ok, Jaabir, I need you to take some deep breaths, and keep your tongue in your mouth," she'd tell him, knowing he'd already heard the cries behind here. "There's a rat in here, and he's all tied up," she'd explain. "if you haven't caught anything today, he's yours if you want, but I'm askin you to please do your best to be humane and not to lose yourself." She'd look over her shoulder. "He's very very scared."

Jaabir jerked his head and body back at the new sound coming from his nest. That was. . . that was the sound of a terrified rat! He liked that sound! He was already looking pretty excited. Though, he'd reason to check. . . just to be sure. His tongue started to poke out, before the mouse's request caused him to pull it back in. He'd tilt his head once more. His grin would being growing by the second. Tied!? Ooooh, that sounded nice! He'd pause for a moment, it wasn't often Lichthia brought him take out. Though, it was awfully considerate. The serpent chuckled, then turned his body, to display his long, smooth. . . flat body. "I could ussse a rat!" he'd answer back. The snake would think to question what this was all about, but snakes were usually of the 'eat first, ask questions later' mind-set. He'd start to climb up eagerly, then pause for a moment to nod. "That'sss. . . fine. . .!" The python pondered a moment, and his eyes started to narrow. "Did. . . thisssssss rat. . . try to. . . hurt you? . . ." he'd question with a long hiss.

Tarik would look to be in a state of shock. This couldn't be happening. It just couldn't! The only thing that truly kept him from believing this all to be a horrible dream, is the fact that not even nightmares were this unforgiving. Why. . . why didn't he listen. Why didn't he try to hunt something safer: Like an elephant. If he survived this, he'd probably run away from mice, least they were concealing a weapon. . . and a large hungry snake. As the two exchanged words, the rat couldn't even blink. Jaabir's change in tone, made things seem far worse. The rat looked to Lichthia, eyes wide. "P-please. . . d-don't. . . t-tell him. . ." he'd whisper.

The mouse would lean forwards towards the python, a teasing smile on her face. She was about to speak, when the rat blurted out his plea. Well no, she wasn't going to lie to her python, not about something like this. But she'd do her best to ameliorate the damage. "Now, Jaabir," the mouse would call downwards, a teasing on her smile. "I seem to recall you were considerin makin a meal of me when we first met!" She'd grin and turn and run into the nest, grabbing a small crude knife and running over to the rat. "So I think you can be forgiving!" she'd finish. "Sides, poor fellow is terrified enough without y'gettin mad at him."

Still paused outside, Jaabir looked very much upset. Some rat, trying to harm his sweet little mouse. Never mind that she hog-tied it and was about to fed him the creature. . . he needed to pay for his crimes! The serpent would sigh as Lichthia began to speak of silly things. . . like reason. He'd even frown at the memory of almost eating her. "Yesssss. . ." He'd finally reply, like a child admitting to their mother they had eaten cookies before dinner. "I. . . sssuppose. . ." He'd sigh, then. . . almost immediately grin at the thought of feasting on such a frightened rodent.

Tarik continued to fret now. He'd wanted so much to be home in his den. With food, without food, it didn't mater. He'd look to Lichthia again, but, was starting to wonder if he'd have better luck with the snake. Before he even managed to open his mouth to give one final plea. . . his eyes went wide as. . . the mouse seemed to be rushing toward him with a knife! *SQUEAL!* He'd wince and lower his head, trembling.

The snake would make his way inside, raising tall as he did. He obviously wanted to look intimidating. His eyes remained closed into slits, with a smile that was just a little too wide. Jaabir's gaze shifted from side to side, and his head swayed. He freeze, then lock eyes with. . . a frighted squealing rat. Hmm. He was just a bit scrawny. Well, at least it looked it have eaten recently. Oooooh! There looked to be a fair amount of muscle. . . especially around the legs. He grinned. This was a good meal!

The mouse ran behind the rat and knelt down. She'd put her paw on his shoulder and stroke it once, before lifting him upwards. She rolled her eyes as saw Jaabir posing. Jaabir, Morathi, what was it with preds? The prey would be plenty terrified no matter what they did. Reluctantly, she'd think to herself, both males could learn a thing or two from Tabatha. That feline had made an art form out of terrifying prey with sweetness and gentle words. For the moment, it didn't occur to her to wonder how scary she could be. As she worked on the twine beginning to cut some of the rats bonds, she'd smile sweetly at the python. "Jaabir. . . . please. . . be as kind to him as you can. . . ." She'd give a twitch of her tail. "It'd make me happy." There were other tools than reason for persuasion. "I need to cut his bonds, for you can hold him. . ." she'd continue. "Let me know when you're ready."

The rat would look to be a statue. Completely frozen in his tracks as he locked eyes with the snake. Why. . .why. . . why couldn't it have been an angry mouse buck, hitting him mericlessly with a stick as he was tied. He'd give a near audible gulp and just barely register himself being lifted up by Lichthia. She was. . . cutting him loose? That didn't seem to provide as much comfort as it did when she first mentioned this would occur. And, as he laid there helplessly, he'd think hard once again. He'd take a breath and turn his head, forcing his eyes to stare into Lichthia's. "D-d-don't. . . cut me free. . . ." the rat would whimper out, "n-not yet. . ."

At Lichthia's word's, Jaabir slowly turned his head and. . . glowing eyes. He'd almost chuckle some at the request then. . . his gaze honed in on that lovely little tail. "Hisss. . ." He'd blink and turn force his eyes up. "O-oh. . . yessss. . . " The snake cleared his throat, "I'll. . . go easssy. . ." He'd slither forward, stopping just before the two rodents. Ooooh, he wanted to taste his fear, but. . . that might make him a little ravenous. He laugh softly, and just look down at the creature. "Why sssshould. . . ssshe wait? . . ." he'd question with a smile "Didn't you jussst asssk the oppossssite?"

The mouse would return the rat's gaze, and smile, completely untroubled, completely without malice, and completely without mercy. She tried to think of something she could say that would make him feel better. 'Thank you for sacrifice?' 'Be brave?' 'It was nice meeting you?' None of those seemed right.

"You were gonna tell me about the rat heros. . . " she'd venture. "Maybe it'd help y'think about 'em now?"

Tarik whimpered as he snake grew ever closer. He'd look over to Lichthia, and swallow hard at the suggestion, shaking his head and lowering his ears. The rat was clearly scared out of his mind, yet. . . as the mouse requested the serpent be. . kind, he'd offer a small whispered, 'th-thank. . . you. . ." His eyes though, when they fixed back to Jaabir, he could see nothing else. He'd be forced to strain his neck up as Jaabir moved just before him. "I. . . " The rat took a breath, forced his eyes shut, then reopened. "Y-yes. . . I. . . did." He'd shake some, as he spoke. "I. . . know you. . . are hungry. . . and. . . I've b-been caught. . . " Ooooh, this wasn't easy at all, no mater what the mouse had implied. He'd pause. "I. . . thought. . . since I've. . . not eaten much. . . that you might prefer. . ." He'd look over to Lichthia, and gaze for a moment. There would be a long pause.

"I'd consider y'next words carefully, Tarik," Lichthia would interupt. "If y'thinkin of gettin me t'protect y'from Jaabir by sayin somethin that'd enrage him, s'not gonna work." She'd stare at him, and lift the knife to the bonds. "I did tell you, I won't be responsible for the consequences."

As the mouse spoke, the rat would immediately shake his head, looking quite terrified. "No no . . . that's not. . . w-what I meant. . ." he'd whine. Tarik would quickly clear his throat and force his eyes back up to the snake.

"To wait. . ." He'd continue. "s-since. . . I'm tied. . . and can't escape. . . you might. . . find it. . . benefitical. . . to. . . spare me a few days. . ." He'd look over to the bag, "I could eat more. . ."

Jaabir stared with a steady grin. Silly little rat, what was it trying to say. It was too terrified to try to act calm around him. Very quickly, the rat wouldn't be so funny to him. At even the thought he was suggesting to give up his mouse for such scrawny rat. Oooooh he was going to crush this one good, he might even have to ask Lichthia to scrub to the ceiling. He'd raise his head and tense, reading himself to bite. Then. . . as he continued. Jaabir relaxed once more. False alarm.

Lichthia would sigh at the rat's words. Well she was glad he wasn't going to do what she thought he was going to do, and felt a little foolish jumping to a conclusion, but this was getting annoying. "Jaabir, can I cut this fellow loose?" she'd ask. "You can do what you like with him, although I'd appreciate if y'could try t'be humane. But I'm real tired of having to keep this rat tied up and guarded and I'd like m'staff back. I'd like t'be able to pass him over to you, so I don't have to deal with him no more."

The rat turned to Lichthia with a look of horror, just as when first facing the snake. He'd just stare, trembling. Tarik would almost feel a sense of betrayal but. . . he did try to eat her. Whatever he said and whatever happened afterwards, that much was still true. And at least. . . she asked the snake to not be cruel. Tarik's expression of shock softened and he'd nod to her slowly. "I. . . understand. Thank you Lichthia. . ." he'd whisper. He'd close his eyes and brace himself. Not looking back at the python.

Jaabir continued to loom over Tarik, looking to be in great thought. This was a little diffrent for the serpent. He liked to give prey requests when he deemed them reasonable, which did very well lead to Lichthia's survival, but. . . he it would be nice to eat now. His eyes shifted over to his cute innocent mouse, and he'd smile kindly. "Oh. That'sss fine. If Itsss a burdern on you Lichthia. . . pleassse do." He'd look back to the rat, and gaze for a moment, nearing his head closer. That was odd, the critter looked like it gave up. That's unusual for a rat, they usually never know when to quit. He'd sigh and relax his body, eyes not so narrow. "We'll ssssee. . . " he'd say softly, before lifting his tail with a slight chuckle, "but I can tie you myssself. . ."

The mouse would immediately start hacking through the remaining twine the moment the serpent gave his ascent. She'd glance up and give a tired but sincere smile at the rat's words. Most of the time he was terribly irritating, but she was grateful for his simple words of understanding. She felt a palpable sense of relief course through her body as the twine came loose and began to unravel; she'd pull on her staff, while gently pushing the rat forward, the two separating, the staff returning to its master and the rat turning towards his. As she took the staff, exhaustion would overcome the mouse and she'd sag to the floor. She loved the thought of feeding her python, but really, she wasn't cut out to be a pred. The effort of taking and guarding the prey, both physical and psychological, had been overwhelming. She'd kept it together because she had to, but now her python had taken that burden away. She was ravenously hungry, and she'd drag herself over to the bag of walnuts and the basin of water. All she wanted to do was to eat, drink, and lie down in her beloved's coils.

Tarik was shivering hard. He very much thought he'd br crushed to death the second that twine dropped. It wasn't a baseless thought in the slightest, snakes were known for being 'to the point' on these things. So, while his head lowered at Jaabir's words, he feel just a little calmer: He wasn't going to die yet, the snake was just gonna. . . 'hold' him. That. . . that didn't seem so comforting when he mulled it over. As his bindings began to drop he'd give a tiny nervous *squeeeak*, and grunt as he was pushed forward. This. . . this was bad. He'd almost think to take his chances running for it, but he was too scared. . . and too weak: His limbs just wouldn't respond, and instead he only fell forward on his paws, in a bow.

When the rat was freed, Jaabir would waste no time. If he waited, he knew the rodent would try to flee. There wasn't a chance of escape in his own nest, but snakes were lazy! His instincts might appreciate catching a scurrying rat, but he couldn't let those out. . . he didn't want to risk making his mouse unhappy! And so, Jaabir displayed his maw in warning, and gave an intimidating "Hissssss!" before striking his head forward. He'd come less than an inch from making contact with the head, and instead lunge by. . . then turn, creating a quick first loop. The serpent manipulated the coil to force the rat to stand a bit more upright, while several more loops were formed around him. In a mater of a few seconds, Tarik would trade twine for. . . a hungry python.

The mouse would stumble back over to the bag of nuts, intending to pull out something to eat, only to freeze, a paw steadying herself against the bag as she stared at the python wrapping up the squealing rat. Soooooooooo beautiful. It happened so quick. She'd sigh, and when it was evident he had him, she'd turn to fish out a walnut.

Jaabir's head raised up, and he'd lock into that terrified gaze. It was ssssso hard not to sample his fear. He could practically taste it on his lips it was so strong, no tongue required! He'd chuckle, "Yesss. . . thanksss Lichthia. . ." the snake would repeat with a smile, looking a little amused. He'd lean in "Think you picked. . . the wrong moussse." He'd look over to her, with a smile. "Thisss one isss mine." There would be another laugh, "Wasss tempting I'm sssure. . . even with thossse sssilly robesss. . ."

The mouse would smile and nod as the python thanked her, tearing off the shell of a walnut and taking a large bit of the meat. Ohhh, she'd needed that! Her grin would widen at Jaabir's taunting as she chewed and swallowed. "I actually wasn't wearin m'robes!" she'd call back. Truth to tell, she wasn't sure how aware the rat had been of that fact; his vision didn't seem to be so good. But she didn't want Jaabir furious with Tarik, so she didn't mind making suggestions, true but perhaps misleading, that might put him in a better light. "Was rainin at the time. Those robes are like lead when they get wet, I had it packed away." She' grin, looking up. "And I think he has figured out tryin t'pred me was a bad idea. Tried to t'tell him so at the time, but. . .how was he t'know I was tellin the truth?" She'd take another, ripping away more of the shell and much down on more of the meat.

Tarik gave a reflexive *SQUEAL!* as he was captured. Well, recaptured. He had already been caught. A fact made more glaring when the snake repeated it to him. His ears were drooping, and his head would down. He wasn't even trying to squirm. The look in his eyes was that of defeat. He couldn't even stop a little mouse, how was he going to stop a giant snake? At the mention of the robes, he'd blink, and his eyes would follow Jaabir's over to Lichthia. He'd squint, making out the contrast of color on the mouse that wasn't there before. It had been there when he was in the nest, but was a little too preoccupied to study her too much at the time. He'd just watch the two speak, and turn his head slowly back to Jaabir, giving a slight nod as the mouse assessed he knew his folly: That was an understatement.

The snake's eyes grew a bit wide as the mouse admitted to scampering about in the rain unclothed. With wet fur. . . there was nothing to see but meat! She was lucky a rabbit didn't turn carnivorous and pounce her. "I sssee." he'd blink, before turning back to the rat. "Essspecially tempting." Jaabir squeezed one of his coils against the stomach of his. . . Lichthia's prey. He was only feeling. "Mussst of been hungry. . ." he'd say softly, confirming such as he did. Still, Lichthia did warn this rat. Why didn't he it listen? He'd smile again and look back to Lichthia. "That'sss true. . . " Jaabir chuckled. Internally he'd reason that if a mouse told him that, he'd probably laugh. The snake wouldn't look so mad, his eyes looking a little gentle. "What'sss. . . your name? . . ." he'd question softly.

Having finished the walnut, the would pick up a basin and drink. Ohhh, she was feeling much better. She'd reach over for another walnut, but she wouldn't crack this one. She'd pick it up, and taking that and her staff, she walk right by where the rat was trapped in the python's coils. She'd smile as Jaabir asked the rat his name. He'd probably eat him; in fact on one level she hoped he would; she wanted her python fed. But he was being kindly to him, and that was important to her. She'd trail a paw along his coils as she walked by. She'd seek out a length of coil near the tail that the python didn't seem to be needing just now for restraining the rat. She'd lie on her back, pushing herself into the coils, setting her staff on the floor. Mmmmmmm, now she felt good.

The rat swallowed hard, not at all noticing any change in the snake's demeanor aside from voice. If he was focused he might see that eyes weren't straight lines now and instead more circular, but he wasn't so focused. He felt too weak to fight. He felt too tired to move. He. . . couldn't think that clearly. This rat didn't have an inkling of even one of the three virtues so cherished by his kind. At the question he'd struggle to speak, and, judging by his own hesitation, looked to of even forgotten his own name. "t. . . t-ta. . . tar" he'd swallow and finally manage, "Tarik. . ."

His tail moving gently against Lichthia as she settled, Jaabir smiled at the rat's attempt. Whatever his mouse did to scare his one, he might have to ask for pointers. He'd bring his head down lower and rest his nose at the edge of the loop around the rat's arms. "Tarik? . . ." he'd repeat, speaking slow.

"Means 'Hope,'" Lichthia would add from where she was lying in the python's coils. "S'the name of the mornin star." She'd lift her head slightly and smile. "We were chattin earlier." It was a bit of a shame she thought to herself to spoil such a nice name. Not that that was a good enough reason to let Jaabir go hungry of course.

Jaabir smiled, "Hope? . . ." he'd look down to the mouse and listen with some interest, before letting his eyes settle back on Tarik. "That'sss a good name." He'd think to compliment "My name'sss Jaabir. . . but. . . I'm sssure Lichthia told you that already." The serpent just stared for a moment, watching him, not making an attempt to do anything that might otherwise aggravate his senses. Still, he couldn't stop from looking at the rodent from predatory prospective, even if he was trying to be friendly: He'd take a breath to help. "Sssso. . . you want. . . to live longer?" Jaabir shut his eyes in consideration and looked back up. "That'sss a risssk for me. . . you could try to essscape. . . or hurt my moussse. . ." He'd look down to Lichthia, gazing over her in admiration.

Tarik winced as the snake's head got so close. He could even feel the humid breath wash over him: That sensation scent a chill down his spine. The rat would stay silent even at the compliments and discussion of his name. Compliments were nice, but they wern't very helpful to his state of mind right now. Still, he'd try to be respectful. "Th. . . th. . . thank you. . ." he'd say, looking down. The question though, that was much more important him it seemed, and his eye's shined at it. "y-y yes." he'd reply, nodding his head. Following the serpent's eye down to Lichthia, his heart would sink. "I. . . I. . ." He'd start to pant, and would get if not a little distracted in his thoughts at seeing the mouse so peaceful, nestled against the same scales as him with an entirely different outlook. Tarik closed his eyes and shook his head, taking a sigh. He'd pause for a moment, trying to reason. But, in the end he'd only manage, "y-yes. . ."

Jaabir eye's stayed focused on Lichthia, even as Tarik attempted to speak. The final reply made him chuckle. With a smile he'd sigh, "What do you think. . . Lichthia? You ssspent more time with him. . . than I have. . . " He'd laugh softly, "he wasss your catch. . ."

As the other's spoke, a peaceful expresion would cover the mouse's face. Her eyes were half open, but she wasn't awake. She wasn't asleep either. Exhausted from her ordeal, she was in a half way state. She was acutely aware of every word spoken in the nest, and yet there was literally not a thought nor opinion in her head.

There'd be an unusual pause, a silence after Jaabir spoke. When she replied, it would be in a soft monotone voice. "I was different," she said.

Her own words brought her back partially, though she was still in deep. She was aware what she said needed explaining. And as she spoke, she explained to herself as much as to the others, her voice a soft halting monotone.

"When you caught me, Jaabir. . . . . . .I accepted my fate. . . . . .I came to terms. . with what I thought. . . was going to happen to me. . . . and because of that. . . . every day of life you gave me. . . . every second of life you gave me. . . was joy."

She'd smack her lips and swallow, her head shaking slightly. She'd turn her head to look at the rat. Her voice was firmer now, less monotone, though still halting. "He's just askin for more time. . . cause the drive to survive is working in him. . . . as it works in all of us. . . and cause he knows you gave the same thing to me." She'd turn her head towards the python. "If you granted his request, y'd only be prolonging his suffering."

She'd turn her head back up and sigh. Her voice was thoughtful, but at its normal cadence and strength. "S'also the practical side t'consider. I dont' wanna tie him up again. And if you let him go with a promise to return, I don't believe he will. You'll have t'go and get him, and it'll be unpleasant for all involved."

She'd turn her head back to the right, and there'd be very small smile on her face. "S'also, the matter, he did try t'pred me." She'd shake her head slightly. "Y'shouldn't use that as an excuse t'be cruel. He was hungry, but he wasn't cruel or horrible like that jackal." She'd tilt her head back towards the python. "On the other hand, if he's askin for special favors, that might cost you, I think it's fair enough t'take that into account."

Her gaze would fix on the ceiling, and she'd shake her head slowly. "Y'can do what y'like of course. It's your decision. But since y'askin my opinion, I can't see any good reason for giving him a couple more days of life."

She'd sigh, staring at the ceiling, and there'd a long moment of silence. "I could see some reasons for letting him go entirely though."

Tarik wasn't expecting the snake to give any more thought on him. Not after his inability to give a proper reason or excuse that might justify things. So, it would cause his ears to life some as Jaabir looked to be indecisive, and. . . turned to the mouse for advice. Maybe. . . maybe she could reason with the beast? Maybe. . . she felt sorry for him and knew how to work the snake into agreeing with his request? As she began to speak though, the rat would droop more and more. She. . . she didn't seem to be helping at all. He, couldn't find. . . anything wrong with her reasons (or lack there-of), which actually just made things worse: He wouldn't be able to refute. The rat didn't look Lichthia in the eye now, some tears welled, but they didn't look to be intentional, just an expression of sadness. . . that he knew things were only getting worse. That. . . he was going to die. The sky was fading, and there was nothing left.

At Lichthia's final statement, his ear flicked and he'd look over to her. . . his eyes stared out in disbelief at the prospect. That maybe. . . maybe there was still something.

The serpent gave his entire focus to Lichthia. He'd look to be regarding her as some sort of wise informant for a king, giving him council and advice. Jaabir would nod as she explained. It. . . seemed to make sense. Would it be so kind to let leave the rat tied up in his nest. . . having to dwell on his fate for hours with nothing else to occupy him. And. . . he wouldn't want to burden his mouse with tying this rat up again, and he could only hold the rat for so long himself. He'd turn back to Tarik before Lichthia finished, a look of symphony displayed as if to say, 'sorry, looks like I won't be granting your request', with his eyes alone. The mouse's alluding words, though, that would distract Jaabir enough to look back to her. He'd seem curious more than anything. "What would. . . thossse be?"

The mouse was staring at the ceiling rather than looking at the snake. Her brow was furrowed, and there was a strained look to her face. After another pause, she'd continue, "S'not an easy decision t'make, Jaabir. He's put us in a bind." She'd lift her head and look over at the rat. "I'm tired. There's no way I'm going back to my burrow tonight, in the dark and the wet." She'd look back to Jaabir. "But I'm not sure if I should be here, when you've been this hungry this long." She'd sigh. "Still. . . . . I've been with you when you've been hungry before. I know how t'talk you down. I could probably stay the night, go back in the mornin." She'd lift her head to regard the rat, as though assessing the possible value of some stone. "And he could. . . . be. . . useful to us," she'd continue. She'd set her head back, and look up at the python. "But Jaabir, for I explain, there's something very important I have to make clear. . . . . This is your decision to make. . . not mine. . . " She'd lift her head to regard the rat. "He's your prey. . . . not mine." She'd look up to the python, and her expression was sad and her voice was tense. "I'm no pred, Jaabir. . . . . .The power to decide. . .who lives and who dies. . is something I . . . . do. . . . . . .not. . . ..want!" Her words at the end were sharp, quite unusual for the mouse. She'd sigh and her expression would soften, and she'd look up at the python, a pleading expression in her eyes. "Do you understand, Jaabir?" she'd ask softly.

Jaabir would continue to gaze. He frowned some, obviously not liking the idea of his tired little mouse trudging back through the cold. No, he couldn't have that, regardless what he did with this rat. The serpent wiggled the coil which contained his stomach a bit, letting it slide against Tarik. It was. . . mostly empty. But. . . he'd been hungrier. He had even wondered that morning if even asking his mouse stay one more night, but only cast it out in name of not taking chances. As she went on, he'd look to Tarik just as she did. What's a rat good for other than snake food? That was a silly thought. Then again. . . not a few months before, wouldn't he of thought the same of mice and rabbits? He now enjoyed the company of one from each. Other than having them as companions, which he grew to enjoy, he did like to warm up with them at night. . . oooh and they did making shedding easier. Could a rat be multipurpose as well?

The python tilted his head at the change of tone, and would nod slowly in understanding. When she spoke the final words, he'd move his head back in surprise, not expecting it to be loud like that. He'd nod again. "Yesss. . . I underssstand Lichthia." Eyes looking to Tarik, he'd continue. "Tarik isss mine. . . and no one elssses."

As Jaabir spoke those words, instantly the mouse's face would soften with relief. Her eyelids would lower, and she'd take a deep breath. "Thank you, Jaabir," She'd say softly. She'd take a few more breaths, lying there. Then one more deep one and open her eyes. When she spoke next, she was herself again, matter of fact.

"Alright, this is what I would have suggested if y'd already eaten when y'd come home," she'd say, looking to Jaabir. Her eyes would lower, and she'd give a rye smile to the rat. "Or if y'd had the sense t'politely ask me for food, stead of takin me for it!" Her voice was humorous, but there was a certain intensity to her stare.

"Alright, Yarrik, I need to know somethin" she'd begin. "What do you think would happen if you returned t'your colony, expressin your regret, askin humbly for forgiveness. . . and carrying two bags stuffed as full as y'could carry. . ." The mouse would glance over to the bag of walnuts on the other end of the nest. ". . . with nuts. . berries. . .fruit. . . " she's shrug, ". . .whatever rats like. . ." She'd return her gaze to Tarik. "T'express your sincere regret." She'd tilt her head. "Y'think they'd take y'back?"

Tarik kept his head lowered. He was trying not to get too hopeful, but he wanted so much to think that he might survive. He. . . wanted to live. Still, the rat wouldn't look to be too focused on the initial exchange between the snake and mouse, keeping his ears down. As she got the python's answer as request, and continued, Tarik stretched his neck. This. . . this was the important part to him. Her stare would deter him though, making him feel more foolish than he felt already, and he'd give a frail nod.

He'd blink as his name was called, taking in her thought and question. He. . . wasn't expecting anything like that. . . and couldn't see why she thought to consider it. Tarik didn't have much to lose in at least seeing what she was getting at. . . and any second she had the hungry python distracted, was another second he had to live. "T-they. . . t-they. . ." He'd take a breath. "I'd. . . be an. . . outsider now. . . so. . . yes." The rat stared, becoming aware that Lichthia likely wouldn't know anything at all about rat culture. "If. . . you aren't part. . . of a rat family. . . and. . . go to their nest. . . you will. . . be attacked. . . but. . . sharing food. . . would bring acceptance. I'd. . . be lower. . . and. . . " he'd grimace, "be challenged by most. . . but. . . I'd go in. . ." There were other ways to gain rat acceptance, but they didn't seem so relevant right now. The other fundamental one being a shared experience of a traumatic event.

As Tarik spoke, Licthia would push herself to a sitting postion, leaning against her staff. This was serious enough she wasn't going to talk about it lying down. She nodded at Tarik's ascent, then turned her attention to Jaabir. "He could be useful to us," she'd continue. "His colony's not too far from here. They know about you, they know about your territory round the pond." Glancing back at the rat, she'd add, "I'm sure he'd grateful to us. Grateful to you for givin him his life, and grateful to both of us for helping get back into a colony. I'm sure he'd be glad to do us favors that didn't cost him nothin."

The rat raised his head more and more, ears flickering. How. . . how could he be useful? He wasn't sure, but. . . this was looking a bit better. As she went on though, his head dropped. There. . . would even look to be some fear in his eyes. Tarik would imagine his own reason as to why the mouse thought this was a benefit to them. She. . . she obviously wanted him to lure his family to the snake. He. . . did get out casted. . . but. . . he didn't hate them. . . he wouldn't want to see them hurt. It was understood before he picked that fight, that this might happen to him. Well, not 'this' in the sense of being captured by a mouse and fed to a snake, but that he would be banished if he lost. Rat society hinged on dominance, one able to challenge the one above them. But. . . if everyone was challenging the highest, nothing would ever be accomplished. The risk, the prospect of having to leave if you lost to a leader, kept things running smoothly enough. His face looked especially sad at the idea of choosing between himself and old friends. And he'd tense, "n-no. . ." Tarik shook his head, tears flowing, "I. . . I won't. . . betray them. . . " He'd sniffle and look down, going limp, "I. . . rather. . . d-die. "

Jaabir would be looking to Lichthia all the while as she made her proposal. The snake was looking a fair bit interested. He was curious. How could the rat going to the colony help him and his mouse? He of course wouldn't reason his mouse to suggest that Tarik sacrifice his kind, and so, that prospect didn't even enter into his thoughts. Though, when the rat seemed to get fearful and interrupted, the serpent could see why he was suspecting such. Jaabir smiled and looked over Tarik. He seemed to like the intention of the outburst, though wouldn't say anything.

The mouse was leaning forward against her staff, a surprised smile on her face as she peered at the rat. "Tarik!" she'd exclaim softly. "You actually do have some scruples. . . " she'd say softly, in a tone that made it clear this was news to her. "There actually is somethin y'wouldn't do t'save your hide." She'd glance up to Jaabir, noticing the smile. She wouldn't say anything, but it was possible the rat might have just saved his life. Jaabir respected prey who were 'selfless'. "It makes me happy to know that." She'd take a breath, straightening. "But don't worry. Jaabir would never dream of offerin you you're life in return for you betrayin y'kin or y'kind." She'd glance up at the python and smirk. "Because he knows I wouldn't stand for it," she'd add, sliding her paws down her staff. "No I actually had somethin entirely different in mind."

Tarik would be shaking, fully expecting the snake to start crushing his bones or working his maw over him. He didn't want to look. Lichthia's shout though, would cause cause him to turn slowly and look back to her. He'd blink, though would lower his head as she announced she would have expected worse from him. It didn't look to make him feel any better. Her assurance though. . . would prompt another sniffle and he'd look back up. Well, that had been unnecessary, or so he reasoned. "O. . . oh. . ." he'd mutter. But then, what else could she be seeking to gain from putting him back in his colony? It didn't make sense. He'd blink again, sighing. "What is. . . t-that? . . ."

The mouse was leaning forward against her staff, her manner animated. "You could spread rumors for us. I don't want y'tellin anyone you were beaten by a mouse, that wouldn't do any of us no good, but y'could say something like. . ..y'were near the pond, and you saw a white mouse with a stick who was playing with a python. And another ocassion, y'over heard some foxes talkin.about how one of 'em went after a white mouse, and that same python crushed him in two. Or maybe yous saw her another time, and she was talkin to a huge owl. Just chattin t'gether, almost like they were buddies Or maybe he could mention he saw us chatting t'gether with a certain tail grey feline female" The mouse would grin and glance over to Tarik. "I'm certan they know about Tabatha. . . one way or another." Her eyes would focus on the rat. (thinking of adding more here ^^) "Y'must've heard of her, Tarik? Grey female. Civilized cat. Talks real nice. Never says an angry word. Very polite if you have the good fortune t'come across her when she's already fed." She'd pause a moment. "Any rodent she sees when she's hungry is gone. . ."

Tarik would listen quietly now. When she mentioned not telling the truth, he'd nod quickly. There was no way he was going to tell his colony he got beat and tied up by a little mouse. He could just imagine. The rat blinked. He. . . could imagine. Despite the initial negative nature of the thought, it was now immensely comforting. Back in his old home, with his old friends. Could. . . could it really happen? Was it possible? The rat's eyes would practically glimmer. He'd barely register that Lichthia was implying a response out of him. A cat? . . . that one. . . sounded familiar. But wait, did this mouse really know a cat? And. . . an owl? What was this mouse? A demon? He'd blink, then slowly nod his head. "I. .. t-think. . . so." he'd say softly. He'd swallow, and his eyes got a little wider. "d-does. . . s-s-she have a. . . p-purse?"

The mouse's smile widen into a grin and she'd nod. "Filled with food," she'd answer. "Nuts, sometimes fruit, even cheese. She'll share it with any rodent who asks." The mouse was having fun giving the rat a look. "Course, she doesn't eat none of that herself. . . "

Ooooh, she didn't really mean? . . .She did. He heard a lot about that one. There were warnings all the time because she seemed nonthreatening, but she was one of the worst. Well, score wise. Tarik would give a loud *gulp*, and shake his head. "S-she. .. d-d-doesn't. . ."

The mouse would shake her head slowly. "Course not! She's pure pred." She'd grin. She'd never thought knowing Tabatha might prove so entertaining. "All that food's for her prey." She'd smile. "She's principled you see. We feed her, so she feeds us." She'd pause. "Plus I imagine she enjoys a freshly fed rat."

Tarik would shake a little at the thought now. Not just at the infamous feline which claimed several of his family, but. . . also at the mouse. . . which knew her. Maybe she really was a demon? So preoccupied in his thoughts, he'd only half comprehend what Lichthia was even saying now. Catching certain words, he'd look to be in shock. There was something about what Lichthia said, or at least, the way it was phrased, that really put him at unease. "Y-you. . . you f-feed her too?. . ." His ears sagged.

The mouse would laugh and shake her head. "Oh no! Tabatha would never descend to having some mouse help with her huntin. Do not spread that rumor. Tabatha wouldn't be happy if it ever got back to her." She'd pause, her laughter subsiding. "But Tabatha and Jaabir are good friends. They go huntin t'gether. Tabatha'd never harm me, outa respect for Jaabir." The mouse would pause to give her next words more effect. "But if she were out and about, and she saw some rat comin after me, I'm certain she wouldn't mind doin a favor for a friend. .. " she'd glance over to Jaabir, "and getting a nice lunch, all at the same time."

Tarik blinked at the laughter, and would even frown. What was so funny? It didn't seem unlikely at all given his current state. As lichthia went on, it would start to make a bit more sense to him. So. . . maybe the mouse wasn't some evil entity after all. A predator being friends with other predators, that's why she knew about the cat. It was just because of the python. The rat would lower his head at the idea of the feline devouring a rat that was seeking the mouse: It wasn't pleasing to him at all. "

"But Tabatha's not my friend," the mouse would continue. "She's not like Jaabir. I don't think she could ever be friends with a prey. Not really." The mouse would smile and sigh. "I mean we've chatted! And she's friendly with me, same as she's friendly with any rodent when she's not hungry." The mouse would pause. "I did talk her into teachin me how to fight." She'd look at the rat. "That move I used on you? That was hers." She'd smile and sit back. "I wonder what she'll think when I tell her about how I used it." The mouse would pause a moment, enjoying the effect this news having on the rat. She'd think to add, "Don't spread that rumor either. . . . Tabatha was iffy about teachin a prey to fight. I don't think she'd be happy if that rumor got out either. Just let folk know she's Jaabir's friend, and would likely be protective of his prey." She'd smile. "Specially if it meant a nice dinner for her as well."

Tarik blinked, his eyes not leaving her. He'd almost forget he was tied by a hungry puthon and not just some simple twine. The words she spoke were just so inbelieveable. One of the most notorious predators he's ever heard of. . . taught a mouse how to fight? Hed blink take notice of where he was again. in was in the grip of another notorious predator, which spared and. . . seemingly adored the very same mouse. Which was more unbelievable? The rat would blink again and nod quickly to Lichthia. "O-ok. . ." He was going to have be careful, he reasoned, when he went. . . back. Oooh, he almost thought it to be true now. That this was actually decided. No, it wasnt at all. It was just an idea, and in the likely event the snake didnt want to free him . . . he would not only never see his family. . . he'd never see another sunrise either. Still, it was strange, he felt so hopeful talking about the possibility. He'd take a breath and calm, "S-so. . . the owl. . . is t another friend of. . .Jaabir's? "

Again the mouse would laugh. "Jaabir and Morathi, friends?' She'd look over to the serpent, who she expected would be giving a sour look if he was paying attention. "Oh no!" she'd exclaim, chuckling shaking her head. "No, the owl's my friend, not Jaabir's, they wouldn't get along at all." She'd look up. Y'might not be familiar with him. He doesn't usually hunt round here. His nest is t'the north side of the lake. He's a huge owl, maybe twice the size of the ones y'sometimes see near the pond." She'd smile. "He could probably hunt them if he was so inclined," she'd murmur.

She'd look up to the python and quickly add, "Course I could never care for the owl the way I do for Jaabir. Morathi has a cruel heart. He loves t'terrify prey." She'd turn her gaze to the rat and smile softly. "Y'very lucky y'didn't try t'catch me, on the way to his nest."

Tarik frowned again. More laughter? Even when he was making sense of things by the mouse's words, he was still wrong. He didnt like that feeling: it reminded how often he keeps saying, thinking or doing the wrong thing. It made him feel slow, that it was his fault. He'd sigh. Wait. . . the mouse made friends with the owl herself? And. . . *gulp* "t-t-twice? . . ." he'd mutter as she spoke, his eyes getting wide. The rat shook his head. The words about only having a friendly plautonic relationship with the owl didn't seem to change much In his mind, though it did make things weirder. He'd look to her, shaking again. He was in the hold of a snake. A snake which would likely crush and devour him. And, still, this mouse had connection which could make it worse? He'd sigh. This settles it she was a demon.

"I-I . . . see. . ." he'd squeak out softly. "I. . . d-don't know. . . w-what I'd say. . . but. . . c-could. . . do that" What she was asking of him wouldn't be so hard, but he wasn't sure why she wanted to become so known, when it could make it harder to. . . feed her snake.

The mouse would nod. "if this is somethin Jaabir wants to do, we'd have plenty of time t'work out the details." She'd lift a paw to rub at her forehead. "The point of all this is to give me a reputation. Make any preds out there think twice bout comin after me. Or Jack for that matter." She'd sigh, leaning against her staff. "Jaabir here looks after me of course. But I also spend up a lot a time travellin on m'own." She'd smile. "And it's a real pain when some stupid rat thinks I'd be easy prey." She'd smirk. "Even if I end up with dinner for m'love, it's a huge pain, something I'd really rather avoid. And if y'could get the word out that folk should leave a certain white mouse with a stick alone, specially if y'could get it out to t'other preds, but even if it's just to rats, that'd be real nice." The mouse would sigh.

Tarik would raise his head. That. . . made sense, she would certainly be safer. Though, already he couldn't imagine much actually succeeding to catch her. At least, not a rat. And if it was something bigger she might manipulate them with whatever sorcery she was using and add another beast to her ranks. He wasnt sure how true that was, and he wasn't as superstitious as others of his clan, but it sure sounded believable. He'd start to nod his head, signaling understanding. He wasnt sure who 'Jack' was, but woukdnt worry about yet, instead listening close. But. . . one word really made him frown. His ears drooped. His head lowered. Eyes looked away. He was in a low state right now, lower than he ever had been before. And even before this had been through a lot. Things were clearly wearing at him, and. . . subtle as it was, even in jest, her insult made him nearly tear again. "P-please. . ." he'd close his eyes, "don't call me that."

The mouse's eyes would open,and she'd look uver at the rat. "I'm sorry?' she'd ask, her voice a little gentler. Had she gone to far? She was used to teasing Jaabir, but the rat looked to be more sensitive. "Not call y'what?"

Tarik would raise his head just a little, and would flick one ear. He wondered why he was bothering, and if he offended the mouse at all he would be completely done for. He'd sigh sadly and mutter, "stupid. . ."

The mouse would nod. "i am sorry,' she'd answer gently. "But I promise I didn't mean it. S'been a difficult day, and I like t'tease folk sometimes." She'd chuckle. "Heck, I've called Jaabir here stupid on occasion, and he knows I don't mean it, he knows I love him." She'd smile up at the snake, before returning her attention to the rat. "And I wasn't necessarily talkin 'bout you in particular either, Tarik. I'm thinkin about any other. . .uh. . . . .rats. . .. who might have the uh . . . . misjudgement! to think I'm easy prey." She'd grin. "I'd just much rather not t'have t'deal with it. . that's all. . .."

Tarik sniffed and nodded again. He had genuinely thought she was belittling him out of spite, or in a display of dominance. The rat would almost feel more foolish for assuming but. . . actually felt a little better. . . she. . . wasnt actually try to make him feel worse. And, he glad actually forgotten she even talked the snake down for him. At the implication she called Jaabir the same thing, the rat would jerk his head back. That, like so many other things he heard of by this mouse, was insane. If that's how you gain a snake's respect. . . he very much doubted he could manage. He'd sigh again, then nod. "t-thanks. . ." he'd lift his eyes some more, and. . . have the tinest and briefest of smiles, "my day. . . t-too. . ." The rat would frown again, at least for the mouse she knew she could see the next day, he. . . still didn't know and the uncertainty was driving at him as much as anything else. He'd try to focus back on the only thing that might save him, "I. . . u-understand. . . I'd. . . t-tell. . . anyone I c-could. . ."

Jaabir had been silent through it all. Trying hard to both listen and not have a taste of his rat. If he lost himself he might make his mouse sad, but. . . he imagined he'd have control for now either way. Mostly, he didn't want to distract Tarik. It was helping, he felt, to watch the rat talk as if he wern't trapped in coil. The replys sounded less pleading, and. . . more natural. And if he grew too scared, Jaabir doubted the rat could even be coherent. The idea Lichthia was proposing was of great interest to the snake. His mouse. . . safer? maybe even his rabbit? It was certainly a thought he was liking. But, still, he wouldn't look so sure, and in the pause between both of them, he thought to make his entrance. "That'ssss a good idea. . ." the serpent spoke softly, and moved his head closer to Tarik, locking eyes with him. "But. . . how can we be ssssure. . . he could jussst. . . not sssay anything. . . "

The rat would still be looking to Lichthia. Even though he was stressed, he was still looking far calmer than before. Jaabir's movement and voice, however, crushed all that. Tarik flinched and spun his head forward. He was panting rapidly, and trembling hard. It was like he just got captured again. Tarik stared out, not dare giving a blink, fearing he'd be snapped up before opening his eyes. He was terrified. The words reached him as if he were submerged in water: muddled and echoing. It would take time for him, and there would be a pause as he struggled to open his mouth and make words. "I. . . I . . . *squeak* I. . ." The rat took some breaths to ready himself, to calm, to think. "I. . . I. . . w-wouldn't. . . w-want them. . . t-to die."

Lichthia would nod at Tarik's reply. "It's a fair point," she'd answer. "We're not askin him t'betray his folk. It might involve tellin a white lie here and there, or exageratin the truth, but he'd be doin any folk who listened to him a favor. She'd look up at the python, an affectionate expression on her face. "You love me so much, Jaabir, it scares me t'hink what y'd do if somethin were t'happen t'me." She'd look over at Tarik. "If some rat were to really do me serious harm, I could imagine you tearin apart his colony, just lookin for the one who'd done it."

The great python would just stare, statue-like, as Tarik stammered. When he finally managed, Jaabir would smile again. He'd then turn away and look down to Lichthia, nodding. As she continued, he'd chuckle, giving a smirk. "Oh yesss. . . I'd sssearch. . . to find the one. . . and. .. wouldn't ssstop till I did. . ." Not only would Jaabir admit to the accusation. . . he would take pride in the fact.

At the exchange Tarik would fidget. Ooooh that was a scary thought. The snake forcing his way through the tunnels, demolishing the food storages, fighting halls. . . medical wards. Crushing, biting and eating what ever he could manage. The rat gave a soft whimper, and swallowed, turning back to the mouse and feeling as if he were away from the snake once more. He'd look to be in thought for a time, and his eyes looked a little scared just as before. She. . . she wouldn't expect him to ? . . . "I w-w-won't t-tell. . . wh-where my f-f-family's lives. . .e-either. . ."

Lichthia would nod affirmatively at that. "Course not," she'd answer. "I've never told Jaabir where my colony is." She'd lean forward, placing her chin on her staff. "Not that I'd particularly mind if he ever discovered them somehow on his own They did send me off expectin me t'die after all." She'd ponder that. Why didn't she tell him? She'd crossed so many other lines, why not that one? After a pause, she'd look up. "Just some things y'don't do," she'd conclude, straightening up.

The rat would take a breath, looking to have some relief. He'd nod his head some as the mouse spoke of her own family. At least the mouse wasn't too maniacal, she. . . understood, or at least felt no direct hatered for her kind, not enough to wish them harm. Tarik doubted his leaders enough to challenge one. . . but still. . . he wouldn't wish a snake on them. Or. . . a mouse that feeds rats to a snake.

"S'also the matter the matter of his peace of mind," she'd add, turning to Jaabir. "If he broke his word, he'd have t'go t'sleep at night, knowin there was likely a giant python out there who was angry at him." She'd give a small smile. "Last furre t'promise to protect me, and t'break that promise met a very sad end." She'd look over at Tarin. "If y'decide t'make him this offer, Jaabir, I'll make sure he hears the story.

She'd smile and lean back. "And on the other hand, if he does his job real well, if I go out and encounter a fox, and the fox takes one look at me and runs away. . . ." The mouse would grin at the possibility. "Well. . . he'd have a giant python on his good side!" The mouse would grin up to the snake. "i'd have say from personal experience, that's a good thing!"

Tarik would keep looking to the mouse as she conversed with Jaabir again. The mention of another creature taking up an offer before. . . and breaking it. . . sent a chill down his spine. All signs were pointing to double crossing, if granted such an opportunity, as a really bad idea. But. . . why would he? The only thing he could consider, in not doing as was asked. . . would just be taking food given to him. . . storing it in his own burrow, and never going to his colony. But. . . in having to think about his old home now. . . it. . . really made him want to go back. And. . . the mouse speaking the words of always having to sleep in fear, helped back that thought. Having some food to last for a little while, being alone and making a big snake angry at him, or. . . sharing food, having his family back and. . . having a big snake. . . happy with him? It wasn't looking to be an especially difficult decision.

The serpent went quiet as the rat spoke one on one to Lichthia. Hmm. . . he was talking of. . . his family again? Looked real concerned. Jaabir would seem to have a soft expression, watching, a little bit of a smile still. Jaabir looked back to Lichthia and grinned. Oh yes, he couldn't imagine anything sleeping so well in knowing that. After all, Jack, as he learned, had been terrified for weeks when he thought the snake took a personal interest in him and was 'angry': And as for that situation, the rabbit wasn't even sure why exactly the snake was mad. In this situation. . . Tarik would know he. . . broke his word. . . and would have little reason not at least follow through, to avoid the risk. . . to avoid the worry.

Jaabir chuckled, unable to stay silent as the mouse implied benefit in making him happy. But. . . would he be happy? The snake considered the scenario of the fox, and yes, he reasoned, such a thing would make him very happy. "Yesss. . . sssuppose. . . that'sss true. . ." he'd reply, then turn to Tarik again.

The serpent closed his eyes for a time, there would just be a long pause. . . an eerie silence. Then, the eyes opened. And, he would speak. "I'll decide now. . . and. . . won't. . . change my mind." He'd stare. "Do you. . . have anything elssse to sssay, Tarik?" His eyes shifted to the side, "Or you Lichthia. . ." he'd add.

Jaabir's voice shot another chill down the rat. He'd turn his head and all the fear. . .all the anxiety rushed back as before. Why. .. why was it closing its eyes? What was it doing? Was it thinking? Could snakes actually think? He never thought otherwise before. . . but according to the mouse and what he heard, that much was true at least. And, if the snake had to think about it, did it mean he had a chance? Ooooh, he wasn't sure about anything anymore. Tarik flinched as the eyes reappeared, the two glowing spheres focused in on him. The statement and question were both comforting and terrifying. He'd finally know for sure now. . .and he'd have a chance to speak. But. . . it would be the last say he had. . . and. . . it could mean his death would follow.

The rat was shaking like a leaf. . . in an earthquake. His mouth opened and all that came out was *squeeeak. . .* He'd pant and try again, hoping desperately that the snake wouldn't take that to be his official reply. "I. . . I. . ." Tarik's head lowered, and his ears fell. "I. . . would do what you. . . ask. . . I. . . have. . . no reason not to. . if my. . . n-n-nest-mates won't be. . . h-hurt." The rat swallowed hard, his mouth growing thick. "I was. . . h-hungry. . . but. . . I. . . s-s-shouldn't of. . . tried to. . . h-hurt Lichthia. I. . . k-know that. .. and. . . w-wouldn't try. . . a-again. . ." He'd close his eyes as some tears fell, and lean his head forward. Of all the things he did or tried, this was the hardest. It took all this strength to manage. "I. . . u-understand. . . I'm. . . y-your. . ." he'd wince, "p-prey. . ." He'd pant more. "I. . . I. . . w-wont. . . b-b-beg again. . . if. . . y-y-you say. . . no. . ." At that, he'd go very quiet.

The mouse would go very quiet, lowering her eyelids at the serpent's question, leaning forward in thought, and spreading her ears. Like Jaabir, she also felt she had a role as a counselor. To lay out all sides of the issues, including her own desires, so could decide. She'd listen intently as the rat spoke. There'd be a pause as the rat finished, and then the mouse would speak.

"Well he sounds sincere," she'd say softly. "And it seems t'me he'd have every reason to keep his word," she'd continue. "If you do this, he'd have every reason t'be grateful. You'd be givin him his life, and we'd both be makin it possible for him t'go home." She'd smile and sigh and look into the distance, shaking her head slowly. "Back when I was first outcast, I would have done just about anything t'be allowed back in. If someone had made it possible for me to return, I would have given 'em anything that was mine t'give."

She'd take a breath, gathering herself. "And I don't see why he wouldn't do what we ask. We wouldn't ask him t'do anything that'd hurt his family, or himself for that matter. Fact when we make up the stories, we could work in details that'd maybe make him look good, help with his status. And he seems to genuinely care for his kin, that'd give him plenty of motivation t'persuade 'em not to make the same mistake he did." She'd glance down, thinking. "So I think it comes down to whether this is a good idea or not, and how hungry you are."

She'd look up at the python. "If you do this, I think it should be cause you think it's a good idea, something that could benefit us, not as a kindness, cause he's a decent enough fellow." She'd look over at the rat. "I mean he is a decent enough fellow, but who knows, next prey in y'coils might turn out to be a decent enough fellow too. S'why I'm glad I don't have t'make these decisions." She'd look up to Jaabir. If he did this, she hoped the next prey he came upon didn't just happen to be some cute selfless mouse, that made him regret his offer to the rat.

"Might be nice if he could spread m'reputation among the rats. If he could do it beyond the rats, among fox's or cats, that'd be wonderful. Not sure if that's realistic. But even it's among the rats well. . ." She'd look over at Tarik. "Actually haven't run into any rats since I met you, Jaabir, but they're out there. Might even run into a foraging party some day. And even if I could handle m'self, I'd rather not have to."

She'd look up to Jaabir. "Course if y'do this, you'll wanna be sure you're not too hungry, and you won't be predding me tonight or tomorrow mornin. I mean I could probably talk you down, but I don't think that's a risk we should have t'take on his part. . ." She'd glance over at the rat. ". . . specially considerin the way we met."

She'd look up to Jaabir and smile. "S'not an easy decision. But I'll be happy whatever you do." She'd look over at Tarik. "I'd be very happy to give him a second chance, see what happens, see if this could actually work." She'd look back up to the python, and in a soft sultry voice would add, "And I'd be very happy t'see you fed. S'win win, s'far as I'm concerned," she'd finish, leaning back into the python's coils, relaxing. She'd lift her head and give apologetic smile to the rat. "S'nothin personal," she'd assure him, "I'd feed him m'own body, if I could."

With that, her head would lean back and her "Whatever you do, should do it soon. Y'wanna take the time t'make the right decision, but s'not right t'torture him, t'keep him waiting and worrying longer than y'have to."

Tarik kept quiet throughout Lichthia's words. When she spoke positively of it all, and about his intentions, he'd give small nods with his eyes shut firm. The rat was starting to feel that maybe Lichthia was on his side after all. She. . . was helping. Maybe she changed her mind, maybe she didn't want him to end up as food for her python? When she stated the cons for the python, however, he'd no longer hold faith in that. An ear flicked and he'd slowly turn his head, and just barely open his eyes. The reminder of him trying to pred her. . . and that the snake could risk losing his mouse in the night, it would make Tarik's expression droop worse than before. . . he wondered if that had sealed his fate right there. Why would she bring up that case for him. . . then end it with that? Was. . . was it really just because she felt no true remorse for him at all? Did she just not care strongly either way? It. . . made the most sense now, she was only considering it because he might be useful alive, nothing else: A fact made evident when she announced such outright. 'win-win', at those words. Tarik would look hurt. Potential snake food or letting him be useful long-term, both sounded just fine to her. His look didn't last very long, however. Tarik knew she was right, he had tried to eat her, and it was a favor she even gave him this much. And she'd even feed HERSELF to the beast, why would she care of his own life falling to it?

The rat would sigh and lower his head as if to bow. "I. . ." he'd swallow, "k--k-know. . . I. . . u-u-under. . . u-under. . ." The rat wouldn't be able to finish, and would turn back to the snake looking down.

Jaabir was unnaturally quiet as both rodents said their peace. When Tarik spoke, he'd keep his eyes steady on him, studying his movements. . . attempting to discern honesty. At Lichthia, he'd appear much softer, less intense, even smile. He was always glad to hear her, always glad to consider her every opinion. He had a smart mouse! Why shouldn't he listen? The snake knew she couldn't decide for him, it was his choice, but it was clear whatever she said carried great weight in his mind.

The python seemed pleased as she announced her belief in the rats sincerity, as well as the underlying explanation why. He'd nod his head as she went on, seeming to mull his thoughts over. There would be a heavy frown though, when Lichthia spoke of risk involved, the idea his little mouse might be hurt by him in the night. The look in his eyes would immedately show he didn't like that thought at all. His mouse being risked? For a rat? Not only a rat, but a rat which tried to eat her? No, Jaabir didn't like that at all, and it showed. At the final summary he'd nod again, but was clearly in deep thought. He'd peer back to Tarik again, terrified and in a total state of submission. Lichthia was right, he shouldn't think too long, least the rat have a heart-attack. Thinking wasn't a snake's forte, still he made an effort for this case. His eyes shut for a time, and finally. . . he'd nod his head a few times, and open his eyes. "I've. . . decided." he'd say softly.

The snake began lowering his head down, only stopping when he was eye level to the rat. "Tarik. . ." he'd say in a whisper that was spoken with enough intensity that allowed Lichthia to hear. "I want you to know. . . I. . . am happy with what you sssaid. That you. . . care for othersss. . . than yourssself. . . that you would die. . . for them. Thisss. . . isss sssomething I like." He'd close his eyes again, and take a breath, frowning some as he did, as if he were in regret. When his eyes opened they looked sympathetic. "That'sss why I'm very sssorry. I think. . . thisss isss a good plan. I think. . . you carry it out. I think. . . that it would make my moussse sssafer." He'd pause. "But. .. I won't risssk her. I won't risssk. . . taking her in my sssleep or asss i wake. That'sss. . . not sssomething I will do."

The rat waited anxiously. More-than anxiously. These words were going to decide his life. He couldnt imagine a time in his life where he felt so nervous, so uncertain, so worried: Although Tarik wouldnt say it outloud, the mouse was very right, this WAS torture. To know everything hinged on what was said next. . . it was like time moved slower. Even a pause of a few seconds felt like an eternity. When Jaabir finally began, the rat tensed, ears flicking hard enough that one might believe them to go flying off his head. The first words were pleasing: He had thought his outburst was a mistake. . . not thr most important thing he had done thus far. There was hope now. . . he seemed of earned the snakes respect. He might get to. . .

When Jaabir apologized, Tarik would look very very concerned. An apology? He couldnt imagine that as a good thing. Had he only made the snake 'feel bad', with no real change to his plight? The rats eyes began to lift and grow as the snake went on. Things would look dark now. And. .. Tarik reasoned that this was it: The snake felt some remorse, but asnt going to risk his mouse for his sake. The rat swallowed hard and trembled. He'd speak a soft waverring, "n-no. . ." It wouldnt be loud enough to be a plea, it wouldnr even seem directed at the snake. It was only a self acknokwegement, he was doomed. . . he didnt want to believe it. . . he wanted to have hope. .n. but he knew that was useless, how could he have hope when there was nothing else to hope for?

The mouse would appear quite relaxed as the serpent spoke. She was at peace. She'd said everything she thought was important to say, and she was more than content to leave the decision the serpent's coils. Her face would be placid, unmoving, even as he spoke of her, though inwardly she'd feel both happy that he cared for her so much, and undeserving of the serpent's love.

Jaabir would wait, and let that sink in. He'd turn a glance to Lichthia as well, watching her, before looking back to Tarik. Before the rat grew too distressed, he'd move his head closer. "Tarik. I won't risssk her. But, there isss a way. You can have your life, and your colony. You can do thisss plan. You can make me happy. It jussst won't be certain, till tomorrow." His eyes focused, "You mussst ssstay in my coilsss till I wake. I can't promissse you will sssurvive. I may lossse myself, essspecially if you wake me. . . trying to essscape or growing too ssscared." He'd pause. "Thisss isss the only way I could ssspare you. . . and not risssk Lichthia." His eyes shut, "If you. . . rather. I could take you now. I'd be gentle. I could make it painlesss or handle you asss you wisssh." His eyes opened. "If I lossse myssself. That won't happen. I'd probably crusssh you. . . slowly. But. . . you'd have a chance. And I would give you my word, that I'd try to the bessst of my ability. . . not to harm you, jussst asss I would with my moussse." He'd pause and lower his head fully against his coil, "Thisss isss your choice."

The rat looked lost, like a husk. He looked drained. He had tried so hard, so so hard, and. . . all was for naught, the snake wasn't going to risk his mouse. Then. . . then he'd hear Jaabir continue. Tarik's head lifted, and his eyes shined. A way? There was still a way? He had given up, expected nothing but death. And now. . . now the snake was telling him there was still a hope? He could have his life back. . . his family back. . . It was just too good to be true. He'd even take a sigh and look to smile inwardly. But what's this? An ear twitched. Tomorrow. . . he couldn't know till tomorrow? Tarik locked eyes and flinched. A snake telling you, that you might not live, was not something he could find comforting in itself: It still invoked a shiver. But. . . the possibility of dying. . . meant it wasn't certain. . . meant there was another possibility. . . the possibility of life. And so, with that in mind, he'd look to be much better than he was. Crushing down. . . painful crushing. . . ooooh that sounded terrible. He wanted to live, but. . . how likely could he survive in a snakes grasp that might forget why a rat is in his coils the next morning? . . . a snake that would just see captured food and enjoy its breakfast? Tarik wasn't at all sure. Would a quick death now. . . be better? No. . . no, he had fought so hard, he wanted this. Still, the choice wasn't as easy as he thought it was. He'd stay silent as he reflected.

The snake would turn to Lichthia. "I. . . think thisss. . . isss fair. I'd like you to be sssafer, but I won't risssk you to make that happen. I know. . . you wanted me to. . . go easssy on him. . . ssso. . . I hope thisss isss alright. He can. . . decide if. . . he rather know for sssure it won't be. . . too unbearable." He'd look if not a little unsure, "I hope itsss not too cruel. . . to give that choice. . ."

As the serpent described his plan, a smile covered the mouse's fate. "Jaabir," she'd address him teasingly. "I thought it was my job to come up with clever solutions t'problems."

Glancing back at the rat, she'd speak to the snake in a more serious tone. "I think y'makin a generous offer. S'not wrong t'cause him some stress when y'giving him a real chance t'live, and even t'help his kin." She'd pause, glancing at the rat again and add, "And he is the one who's made this necessary."

She'd turn back to talk to Tarik. "I've done this m'self. Back before Jaabir gave me his protection, when I expected eventually to be his meal, I slept every night in his coils, even when he was hungry, and I'm still here. If a mouse can do that, no reason a rat can't as well." In her mind, the last thing she'd said wasn't entirely fair. When she'd entered into the nest, she'd come in a state of surrender she suspected was rare for anyone, mouse or rat. But she hoped the gentle challenge to his pride and the pride of his species might help to inspire his courage.

The rat's eyes moved to the mouse. He wasn't speaking just yet, still in thought. Tarik wanted to speak, wanted to accept, but. . . it took effort, effort he couldn't call on just yet. When Lichthia spoke, and assured that she had done it. . . had survived, it would drive a spark in him. This mouse had lived. So could he! More than simply a mater of pride, more than 'Anything you could do. . .', was the knowledge of 'It's possible'. He'd nod to her firmly and then look to Jaabir, taking a swallow. "I'll. . . t-take your offer. . . I'll. . . I'll s-stay in your. .. c-coils.. . . t-to. . . s-survive."

Jaabir would almost spoil his serious demeanor. Hearing Lichthia's statement of his idea being clever. It made the snake swell with pride. His mouse thought he was clever! She had been staying with an owl on occasion, an owl that thought himself as really smart. But. . . his mouse thought he, a snake, was clever. Ha! He wondered if Morathi could think of such smart plans. Before his goofy smile grew too big, Jaabir would shake his head and settle for a light grin, with a nod to Lichthia. Then, the serpentine eyes settled back on Tarik, and he'd listen to his decision. The snake would even ready himself, secretly, just in-case the rat wanted things to be certain: He imagined if he wanted that route, he wouldn't care to be alive as he went down, and thus, an instant breaking of the back would be best, wouldn't have to worry any more.

If Tarik wanted the quick way, Jaabir wanted to do it before he even finished speaking, take him by surprise. That was always the way he liked to handle it, his prey didn't even know what was happening. One second they'd be talking, then they wouldn't. The rat's first words, would catch Jaabir at some confusion. 'Take your offer'. Jaabir almost squeezed right there. He had obviously taken the 'offer' to kill him now. Wait. . . maybe he considered the first choice to be the offer? Hmm. . . better wait to be sure. Jaabir would start to ease and relax. Whoops, that could have gotten embarrassing.

The snake would chuckle softly, and wouldn't look to be so intense, instead only soft, even friendly. "Then. . . that'sss what we'll do Tarik. If you're here in the morning, and I'm sssstill to my sensesss. . . then you will have your life. . . and your family." He'd pause. "Well. . . only If. . . you carry out your part. . . or at leassst try. But I don't think that. . . will be an isssue.' Jaabir rested his head down. "And of courssse. . . you'll never hurt my moussse. . . or I'll find you. . ." He'd look to Lichthia with an affectionate smile. "and make it ssslow. . ."

Tarik breathed a heavy sigh of relief. It was like a great weight fell off him. There was still a little uncertainty to his fate of course, but it looked to be a good chance. At least, a better chance than he's had all this time: It was better odds than when he was in the mud unconscious, better odds depending on Jaabir being hungry or not, and better odds than being in a hungry serpent's coils that had no intention of not eating him. The rat would nod as Jaabir explained some more. It was a little scary to think about simply, 'not being there' in the morning, but he'd try to stay calm now. He'd look over to Lichthia just as Jaabir did, and he'd nod strongly, gulping hard at the snake's threat. "I. . . I'd never h-hurt her. . . e-ever. . ." The way his eyes looked to the mouse, he would appear immensely grateful.

Jaabir laughed. "I didn't think ssso. . ." he'd whisper. A small chill hit him, and he'd turn his head. He'd sigh, it was raining again. Could be worse, at least now he has a warm rat. He'd grin, and look back to Tarik, flexing his coils and rubbing them gently against the rat's fur, getting a better feel for him now. It took a little effort to not squeeze, but with his tongue inside his maw, it wasn't so bad. "Mmm. . . Ooooh. . ." he'd mutter. Of course there may have been other ways to keep his mouse in his nest unharmed. Maybe she could of just slept away from him and tried to stay hidden? Not seeing her right away would have given the snake more time to gain his senses, should he stir awake. And if she woke first, she could just head outside and wait; keep her distance or just head home. But this, this was the best idea in Jaabir's eyes: He got to have a pillow!

The mouse smiled wide as the rat accepted Jaabir's offer and Jaabir answered him. She was very happy to see him get a second chance; he seemed a decent sort after all. She'd give a little smile as the python looked at her affectionately and described what he'd do if the harmed her again. It both touched her and scared her how much Jaabir cared for her. Of course she wouldn't really want anyone to be tortured, even if they did hurt her, but it was much easier to stay out of harms way than try to convince the python of that.

She'd be taken aback, even feeling a twinge of guilt at the intensity of the gratitude in the look the rat gave her. She had been ready to feed him to her python after all. "Think y'can uncoil him, Jaabir," she'd say softly, leaning down to pick up her nut. "I imagine he's more than ready to stretch a bit, after being tied up all day." With that she'd bite into the shell of the walnut. She was still hungry, but it hadn't felt right to eat while the rat's life was on the line. "Let him down easy. . . . his muscles are probably stiff."

The rat winced as the serpent seemed. . . to enjoy pressing his scales against him: If Jaabir thought it felt good to squeeze at a rodent. . . it didn't look to help his chances, not at all. He'd breathe. It was still a chance though. . . still a chance. There was hope! But, for now at least, he had to experience some fear and worry. As long as Jaabir held him, his state could change at an instant. As long as. . . Jaabir held him. The rat turned to his head to Lichthia with. . . a sense of longing. Relief, he could have relief! Ooooh, he needed a break from this nightmare. He'd blink. Actually a 'break' was the last thing he wanted, a reprieve though, sounded good. He'd nod to her, and then to the serpent.

Jaabir smiled. . . but soon tilted his head at the mouse. Letting his the rat go? He wouldn't look so sure, and turned to look at him. The rodent did. . . look tired. . . and had been through a lot. As look as he had him back in his coils while sleeping. . . things would be ok. Still, Jaabir was highly reluctant to give up his pillow! "Tarik. . . I'll. . . I'll let you get to your feet and rest." The snake looked to the nest entrance. "If you try to run. . . I'll jussst sssnap you up. . . I'll catch the sssudden movement. . . and probably losssse myself." He'd pause. "For your sssake. . . ssstay in front of me and don't move behind." At that, and without another warning, Jaabir would slowly uncoil a few loops. He'd leave a remaining grip of coil. . . and lower the rat to the ground with that, before releasing completely. The rat would be laid just before Jaabir, and the snake would relax. At least, there was no risk in him running right now, he was too weak.

Tarik would nod his head at the warning, gulping hard. His eyes shut and he'd relax as the coils yielded and released. The rat laid out panting on the ground, unable to even get to his feet. Ooooh, to not be bound. it was such a relief. . . but realistically, he might as well still be tied right now. He couldn't do anything but turn his head and look to Lichthia with soft tired eyes. "th-thank. . . you. . ." he mutter and close his eyes, still panting. "w-water. ." he'd swallow and raise his lids, "p-please? . . ."

The mouse would place the heel of her staff against the fur covered stone of the nest floor and push herself upwards. "Course. . ." she'd say softly, heading off to the basin. "Jaabir, now that you've made you're decision, sooner or later y'gonna have t'start trustin him," she'd say gently, scooping up water into a smaller vessel, and gathering a couple berries as well. "If he breaks his word, we will deal with it. But I don't think we need to constantly remind him what'll happen if he does." An amused smile would cross her face and she'd add, "I think he's gotten the message."

She'd kneel down beside the rat, placing the small vessel in his paws, helping him if he needed it, placing a paw gently on his shoulder. She'd look back up to the python and add, "Course if you're looking for a rodent t'squeeze for a while, for we go to sleep for the night. . . " She'd give a coy smile, "S'been a challengin day. I'd love t'spend just a little time wrapped up tight in y'coils, for we all call it a day." Ordinarily she would have twitched her tail as well, but she was playing things safe.

Jaabir would nod to his mouse, and raise an eye to Tarik. The rat. . . probably had gotten the hint by now. And. . . he would, have to trust him on some level. Though, did he already? The serpent would reason that maybe he did. . . if Tarik didn't look so sincere, that might have been the end of it. Perhaps. "Yesss. . . thisss. . . iss true"

Tarik would look very relieved at Lichthia's reply. His throat felt dry. It had been for a long while. . . all that squealing, all that panting. . . but he was too scared to notice. But now. . . now he needed something for his thirst, something to help him recover. As she and Jaabir spoke, he'd only half listen, but. . . Lichthia's statement of him getting the message, that failing his chosen responsibility would be. .. unwise, he'd nod his head looking down.

When Lichthia approach, Tarik pushed himself upright with what looked to be a bit of effort. he'd sit back, with his back arched forward, relying greatly on the support Lichthia was providing.The rat would struggle not to snatch the container as it was handed over to him, and his paws would be shaky all the while. He could barely hold it, barely lift it, but. . . he'd manage and tilt it to his lips, lapping slowly. His eyes shut as he drank, the cool refreshing waters serving as a much needed comfort and 'luxury'. From the rat's prospective, it was as if he were just brought out of hell, anything was now a luxury. "ohh. . ."he'd groan. If the snake would of allowed a last request, if he decided against sparing him, this would have certainly been the best choice.

A wide smirk would form on the serpent as Lichthia continued. "You hear that Tarik? . . ." he'd say softly with a humor to his voice. "You've been making Lichthia feel jealousss. . . having my coilsss to yourssself. . ." He'd chuckle, and gently move his tail by the mouse, rubbing her a bit. "Of courssse Lichthia. . ." There would be pause, as he watched the rat struggle with the water, "but. . . guessss I ssshould wait. . ."

The rat would blink slowly and turn his head up to Jaabir as he was addressed. He wouldn't know how to reply, unsure what may or may not offend this large hungry python. And so, Tarik would give a nervous nod. . . and a bit of a confused look. He wouldn't quite smile, but, internally he'd think 'if she wants the coils. . . she can have them. . .'.

While holding the rat and making sure he could drink the water, she'd nonetheless smirk at the python's teasing and softly, reply, "Well whuddya expect? Dunno why y'spendin so much time with this rat, when I'm right here. I'm much more squeezable than he is. N'much tastier too!" She'd look over her shoulder. "If y'had any sense, y'd snatch me up, help y'self t'dinner, n'let this poor fellow go."

She'd continue to look after the rat, smiling softly at his touch, but nodding when he suggested he should wait a bit.

Jaabir would laugh again, continuing to move his tail along the mouse's back. "I'm a ssssilly sssnake. . ." he'd say softly. "you are sssofter. . . tassstier. . . nicer to sssqueeze. . ." He'd look over to Tarik before continuing, "no offenssse. . ." Looking back, he'd frown mockingly, "I'm jussst too ssstupid. . . to do what'sss natural." The serpent would then grin, "I rather keep you. . . sssqueeze more. . . tassste more. . ." His tone would continue to carry a level of sarcasm. He'd then eye the rat, and sigh shaking his head, "and ssshedding isss ssso much nicer. . ."

Tarik would continue to lap at the water, his whiskers and nose fully submerged. Ooooh, he looked so much more relaxed now. So grateful. At one point he had thought this mouse to be crazy, merciless and. . . demonic. But not now. He'd lick some more at the water and flick an ear at the conversation, before lifting his head and turning slowly. Was she? . . . She was. She was telling the serpent to eat her. . . and to just let him go! "w-wha. . ." he'd mutter in confusion. Oooh, this could make things a lot easier. But wait. . . the snake was refusing. That's right. . . she said he would give herself up if she could. . . the snake. . . didn't want to. He had no idea if either were being truly serious, they looked to be joking. A snake joking? Before, the only thing he could picture a snake finding amusing, would be to tell a rat they would be released before crushing them and letting them drop to the ground. With a blink, Tarik felt himself glad for not recounting that earlier. He'd turn back to Lichthia, confusion still showing strong. Finally he'd shake his head. The mouse certainly wasn't merciless nor demonic. But. . . she was crazy.

The mouse would sigh contently and smile wide. Her smile would widen, seeing the look on the rat's face. "Don't mind us," she'd tell him, still helping him with the water if he needed it. "This is a game we play together, we tease each other! I wouldn't really want Jaabir t'eat me." She'd glance back at the python and add, "Poor silly snake'd be lost without me."

She'd turn back to the rat, a more serious expression on her face. "Y'through the hard part," she'd tell him. "I think y'gonna make it through all this jus fine." She'd dip a cloth in water and study his brow, cleaning it gently, debating whether to change to the bandage. "S'a little risk, nothing's ever certain, but I think you'll be fine."

Jaabir would grin at the rat's state of bewilderment. He'd look down and nod to Lichthia with a strong smirk. "Yesss. . . we enjoy playing. . . gamessss. . ." The serpent would then frown and nod, "sssso lossst. . ." he'd comment and sigh.

The change in tone from Lichthia was soon met by another nod from Jaabir, who would begin to lower his head down near the rat. He wouldn't get too close, however, as to not give him any more unnecessary stress. "Ssshe's right Tarik. . . you. . . ssshould be alright. I wasss hungrier before around Lichthia. . . and i almossst told her ssshe could wait a day. . . before ssshe left thisss morning." Of course, the snake would fail to mention that the mouse was practically in-tune to his very being. . . and as such knew how to keep from provoking him. She even knew how to talk him down should a mistake occur. There was also the mater of clothing, which served as an. . . extra layer of protection, in more ways than one.

The rat would take a breath. First his confusion would. .. fade somewhat at the mention they were just playing, which was still fairly strange to him. The words of assurance though, from both the snake and mouse. . . that brought about a level of peace that over-shadowed any confusion. He knew his chances had been better than they were. . . but still didn't anticipate the chance to be especially high. It felt like he could see the sun rising at this point. Jaabir wouldn't see it, but , given her position, Lichthia may spot a soft and relaxed smile, as he took another drink. "That's. . . that's. . . good." his voice was still a little shaky, but it would be from weakness, than fear now, and carried a tone what might be described as excitement. 'Good', he would repeat in his mind, if that wasn't an understatement. He'd pull his head away from the water, finally getting his fill. His strength would start to return now, as he flexed his paws and arms as he laid. Still, he would get up just yet. "Thank you. . . so much. . ." he'd whisper to the mouse, head turning down some in signal, a sign of acknowledgement of both her mercy. . . and his status below her.

The mouse was happy to see the rat's smile. Like Jaabir, she knew there were some things she was leaving out. But the most important thing in her mind, even more important than the rat's lack of robes, was that he didn't feel too much fear when he was in the python's coils. If the rat was convinced he would live, that could make it more likely that he would live, and to her that fully justified the slight stretch of the truth. Honesty was not always the best policy.

His thanks would make her feel uncomfortable. She would have much preferred he should thank Jaabir. She didn't want to be the giver of life, the merciful one. Yet, she didn't think it right to argue with him. So she swallowed her discomfort and nodded, "Y'welcome." She told herself perhaps he was thanking her for the water and her gentleness.

"I got a few pieces of advice for you, but first, is it alright if Jaabir holds me for a bit?" she'd ask him. "Y'got water and some berries here, and there's more food back there by the wall. Should help y'self if y'need anything."

Tarik would blink at that. Advice? A way to take the odds which already seemed high. . . and increase them? Ooooh, his eyes would sparkle. Things were getting better by the second. He'd nod, not at all thinking to tell her no. "T-that's. . . that's fine Lichthia. . ." He'd say softly, before looking over the berries. . . and all that food in the back. He'd even look back to the entrance behind the python. Would. . . would it be easier to escape if the two were preoccupied with each other? Perhaps. . . but. . . if his odds were so high, and only getting better. . . why risk instant death. . . and the knowledge he'd just been hunted every day for the rest of his life: Empty handed, he wouldn't even get to go back to his colony. He'd sigh, and nod, turning away from the entrance quite quickly least the snake feel he was getting ideas. The rat would take some time to try and stand up, almost losing his balance as he did, and proceed to one of the berries. He'd reach down and lift it to his maw. His eyes shut in bliss, as he juice teased his tongue. He'd sigh. . . and give a low chitter.

At the rat's permission, the mouse would push herself up with her staff, then to head to a wall to place the staff where it would be safe. She'd then head over towards the python, shoulders back, arms at her side, eyes half lowered. Jaabir would recognize that while she wasn't teasing him, she was still making herself defenseless as she approached.

Jaabir would watch the two calmly. He wasn't much concerned now, that the rat would try to hurt his mouse, much less run. From the looks of it, the rat could barely stand. . . even with another critter held. . . he could seal off his path with little effort. And. . . it was his own nest after all. Of all the prey he brought in here, he could not recount one which tried to run. . . and lived. When Lichthia came here, the serpents eyes honed in. A rodent approaching him, it was. . . appealing if nothing else to his senses. Nothing that which would provoke his instincts into taking over. . . far from it, but. . . it was nice. . . and it did make him stare. "Mmm. . ." Such an easy catch. He. . . felt a strong urge to strike. . . to coil her roughly. But. . . would resist. Maybe if he had fed, he would play such 'games' and delight his senses. Now though. . . with no rat in his belly (or anything else for that mater), he didn't really want to leave anything to chance: Mistakes could happen after all. And so, Jaabir would smile, and raise up a section of coil for her to climb into, a familiar gesture. . . done often in her presence.

A soft smile would spread over the mouse's face, and she'd walk straight for the raised coil. She'd drag herself up, making sure her feet were off the ground, and slip herself into the coil, letting it tight around her. She'd hold her arms at her side. Sometimes she'd hold them up to keep them free, but other times like now she wanted to be completely helpless. She'd let out a low sound of satisfaction as the coild held her. "Can you squeeze just a tiny bit tighter, please, Jaabir?" she'd ask. A moment later would come a very contented sigh. "Oh that's perfect!" she'd churr. "No tighter than that; I need t'be able t'breath, t'be able t'talk t'Tarik. Tell him what he needs to know."

The serpent would grin and laugh calmly, as the mouse settled and. . . his coils tightened to her liking. She liked to be held sometimes, that was common. But. . . to not have any power to move her arms. . . to be at his every whim. . . usually that seemed reserved for bad days: Jaabir wasn't the fastest snake, but. . . over the time he had spent with Lichthia. . . would come to understand this. Was she upset? She. . . didn't seem to be, but. . . all this had probably taken its toll. He'd look over to the rat with a quick glance, thinking maybe eating Tarik and playing a nice game would help Lichthia more. Though. .. would decide against that pretty quickly. Still, it was tempting. He'd nod to her, and smile, leaning his head against her gently, and looking down to her Tarik.

Tarik would finish up his berry while the the mouse got settled. He'd raise an eye slightly. The rational part of him, based on the world as he knew it before entering into his nest, would dictate the the snake was about to coil this mouse. . . crush it. . . fed. . . then go to sleep without much more thought on the mater. However, given that what he knew now. . . he didn't truly expect that. And. . . wouldn't look too surprised as the two of them looked pleased with each others company. The tightening, however. . . the request at the tighting, would send a chill down the rat's spine. That's. . . that's just not something you tell a snake. He'd shake his head.

With a sigh, the rat would look around once more. The two, as he thought before, were very much preoccupied with each other. While, it was his intention to not dwell on such maters. . . he couldn't help his eye's drifting to the exit once more. All that rain pouring down. . . the bleakness. . . it. . . was both inviting and deterring in its own right: Freedom. . . with an obvious and looming dread encasing it. But. . . if he wanted to escape, there would be no better time: He couldn't imagine another opportunity. And, his odds looked good right now in staying. . . but. . . its a snake. . . a hungry one. . . Snake's were unpredictable at times. Any second near him meant another second of risk. . . risk of being inside him. Ooooh. It looked to be such an easy choice before, and now it was getting hard. He'd move his legs a bit. . . stretching them.

"Alright, Tarik," the mouse would say softly. Her eyelids were half closed and she was barely looking at the rat, seemingly relishing the python's embrace. ""First thing is. . .the most important thing is. . . that you know deep inside you, that y'gonna stay the night. . . . .That you are going to do this."

She'd sigh, and look down at the rat, though her eyes were still half closed. "It's inevitable, in the dark, and the quiet, you are going to feel temptation to break your promise, you will feel temptation to run." She would have given a half shrug, though the coils would make that invisible. "S'just instinct. . . " she'd opine. "Completely natural." Her eyes would widen a bit. "But it's important you stand firm against temptation. If you're divided, it will make it harder to focus, to do what you need to do, to have the best chance of making it through the night." She'd swallow; now her eyes were fully open and she was looking full on at the rat. "When you feel that temptation, just remind yourself that if you run, not only would you be breaking your word, not only would you'd have a poor chance of makin it out, not only would y'never see y'kin if y'did make it out, and not only would you have an angry python looking for you. . . . " She'd be quite for a moment, looking full on at the rat, before continuing in a soft voice, "But Tabatha's a very good friend of Jaabir. And she'd be after you too." Her eyes would half close and she'd add, "Funny thing, there was a blue jay used to live just outside by the pond, who promised t'keep an eye out for m'welfare. She broke her promise, she even attempted t'do me harm. . . . .Tabatha caught her. . . and gave her to Jaabir." Her eyes would open again, and her voice would be soft and friendly, quite in contrast with her words. "So when y'feel temptation, just remind y'self of that, and it should help ykeep y'resolve."

The rat would be looking to the nest exit at Lichthia began to speak. He'd quickly turn his head away and look up. . . his head sagged, eyes looking to the side. How. .. how did she know? He'd sigh, then look back up, letting her words trickle in slowly. The way she spoke. . . it made him nervous. She wasn't the snake. . . but. . . it was strange: Tarik was feeling as though if he was addressing one or addressed by one. . . he was addressing both or addressed by both. It was like two halves of the same coin. And. . . this hlaf one was the 'reason' of the two. He'd gulp and slowly nod his head. All those things he had considered before. . . and forgotten. . . only now seeping back. Though. . . there was one thing, he hadn't considered. "T-tabatha? . . ." he'd repeat with a stammer. Oooooh, that's right. The snake knew the cat. He might be able to avoid the snake for awhile. .. but two predators looking for him? And not only that. . . but Tabatha was faster. . . cats naturally were. The look in his eye would indicate worry, especially when it was mentioned someone tried escape. . . and failed because of her.

He'd sigh again and nod his head. Then. . . even a stronger look of terror strike him. "a-and. . . t-the. . . owl. . ." he'd mutter. He was far more concerned with Tabatha, since owls didn't hunt in the day and. . . an angry one would be easier to avoid because of that. But. . . three. . . THREE predators after him. The nest's exit didn't look so tempting, not anymore. He'd gulp and nod his head.

The mouse would smile slightly. Actually, she didn't imagine Morathi would go out of his way to avenge a rat who'd deceived Jaabir, but if Tarik chose to be frightened of the possibility so much the better. Realistically it didn't matter; she couldn't imagine a lone outcast rat evading Tabatha for more than a day, once she'd set her sights on him.

"S'nothing t'worry about though," she'd assure him. "Cause y'gonna keep y'word, and so they aren't gonna be comin after you." She'd puase a moment to think. "Tabatha might even concievably give you a pass, if she knew you were helping Jaabir." She'd frown, thinking. "Though I wouldn't push m'luck."

Eyes would focus on Tarik as she continued. "Anyway, best thing you can do tonight is to sleep." She'd smile. "I know that's easier said than done, sleeping in a python's coils," she'd continue apologetically. "But it'll help we're all tired, and y'exhausted." She'd ponder a moment. "Most likely what's gonna happen, is we'll all sleep, you and I will wake up first. .. " She'd give a smile and turn her head to look at Jaabir. ". . .Cause snakes are lazy, and sleep in late!" She'd return her attention to Tarik. "You'll sneak out of Jaabir's coils, and we'll slip outside together, and have breakfast, and wait for our lazy python here t'wake up."

She'd chuckle and add, "If y'can't sleep, just try to lie still and relax as much as you can. Think of pleasant thoughts . .." Her eyes would half lower, "Like how nice it'll be to see your family again." The mouse would sigh. "Jaabir and I play things very safe, I leave as soon as there's any chance I might be in danger. Cause I live with him, and we can't take even small risks, cause we only have t'have one mistake, and it's a tragedy." She'd swallow. "This was the first night I was gonna leave Jaabir alone, and he's not that hungry. More likely than not, nothing'll happen, and we'll have a laugh t'morrow how much time we spent worryin about it."

The rat would nod his head affirmatively to Lichthia, as a gesture to show he was indeed not going to break his word: he wasn't about to indicate at all otherwise before the snake especially. Hearing her speak of the possibility in Tabatha giving him a 'free pass', invoked a odd look, he wouldn't look so convinced either. Then again, he considered, he certainly didn't expect the snake to let him live.

Tarik would tilt his head at the idea of 'just sleeping'. He very much doubted he'd be able to sleep. He'd sigh, but the statement of understanding helped to relax. Though. . . it was a little ironic. A mouse telling him, she understood sleepining in a snake's coils was hard. . . while she happily got herself bound by those very same coils. He'd continue to listen close. . . then flinch hard. The mouse just insulted the snake! She did it before, but. . . this sudden and unexpected mock startled the rat, made him terrified. And, even with all he had been through, everything he was told, everything he had seen. . . he still expected the snake to snap the mouse into. . . perhaps pop her head clean off her shoulders. . . at such an act of disrespect. But now. . . it only looked to respond positively. . . the mouse's head was still very much in-tact.

The snake would grin as Lichthia spoke. He'd just watch Tarik calmly, and given his position (face tucked just next to Lichthia's), he'd be very much acting as a second head to the mouse. A mouse and a snake: The two were naturally designed to fit together. . . just. . . not quite in the way Lichthia and Jaabir had developed. Jaabir would glance to Lichthia on occasion, nodding his head at times to supplement her statements, particularly those involving Tabatha. He'd give a cross look of course, at the mention of the owl by the rat, but would sigh soon after, not saying anything. Sure enough, Lichthia's 'blatant act of disrespect', would be met with an affectionate gaze and a smile.

The continuation by Lichthia, brought ease back into Tarik. It didn't sound so bad: Not at all. And the way she spoke. . . it didn't sound particularly hard to 'snake out of his coils'. He'd briefly consider applying that to the dead of night. . . when he wouldn't have to worry about the mouse alerting the snake. . . but no: the rat was already far too terrified by the prospect of breaking his word now. He could maybe. . . maybe survive for a while, with a snake hunting them. But. . . a snake, a cat and an owl. . . even if he made it out the nest in such a situation, his best chance at life would be to run for his burrow, hide there with no food. . . hoping there was some sort of disastrous fall-out that would kill all three off before he starved to death. And. . . it would even be likely that his burrow be discovered. No, it was a bad idea: A very. . . very bad idea. It was an idea Tarik would cast out with no more thought spared.

But. . . how was he going to keep sane all night, the rat would wonder. The mouse's suggestion didn't seem so bad. He. . could almost picture it now. . . arriving to the colony with all that food, they'd be shocked. It wouldn't take long, he figured, before he was brought inside. . . able to chat with old friends. He'd be at a lower position for awhile. . . probably challenged often. . . but, as a 'first day', and with so much food. . . there might even be a small celebration of acceptance, and it would be bad taste, even for rats, to issue fights during something like that. And further still. . . he'd be given all attention, he could tell of what he saw, what transpired. . . warn them. He'd sigh calmly. It wasn't a bad suggestion at all.

The rat would look up and. . . couldn't help but to smile. It all sounded. . . so sure now: That it would happen. The two were just cautious . . . despite the unlikelyhood a mouse, snuggling with a python, being able to feel caution. He'd pause for a moment, then nod. Maybe it was the friendly tone of the mouse. . . and snake, maybe it was that he himself was feeling safer, maybe. . . it was just the thought of his family again; either way. . . Tarik would take a breath, and think to joke. "I'm not sure. . . I'll be laughing. . ." he'd say with a soft smile still bared. "But. . . I will be happy. . ."

Jaabir continued his small nods of approval, eying the rat and getting a feel for his reactions. The snake was still very much unconcerned at this point. He. . . was even starting to like this one just a little. It tried to eat his mouse. . . but. . . she wasn't wearing her robes! The snake couldn't rightly fault him in being tempted. And, it would seem he endured enough for the crime: It wasn't over either, he had to have live through a little more uncertainty. That prospect, as before, did make Jaabir feel bad for him, but it really was the best way. So, when Lichthia gave her assurances, Jaabir smiled kindly and nodded his head. . . before nuzzling at the mouse.

The python paused mid-nuzzle, and looked back to the rat, looking surprised. The rat was able to share in some humor. . . and even smiled? Jaabir grinned. "Underssstandable. . . " he'd say with a chuckle.

The mouse would smile at the rat's reply. This was good! He was starting to relax, a little at least. Ok, the next would probably worry him, but it had to be said. She'd speak in an offhand matter of fact manner. . oh yeah, and if the snake does try to make a meal of you. ..here's what you do. "Now most likely nothin's gonna happen," she'd begin, "but if somethin does happen, if Jaabir takes an interest in you when he's not fully himself, best thing to do is to relax as much as y'can," she'd tell him. "If y'can just lie still, it'll confuse, he won't understand why you're not actin like a proper rat, fightin and kickin and squealin and such." She'd look over the rat, hoping he wouldn't be too badly scared. "If y'can talk to him, call him by name that can also help." She'd look down into his eyes. "S'long as y'don't act like y'food, it'll confuse him long enough for him to wake up and remember himself. I've had t'do this a couple times m'self, both times when he was hungrier than he is now." Of course it was easier for her, as by now she was literally incapable of feeling fear of the serpent, but she imagined if the rat kept his wits about him, he'd probably be ok. Probably. And if he wasn't? Well, they'd tried. And she'd still be happy to have Jaabir fed.

The rat was indeed looking much better. He'd flex and streach a bit, yawning just a little. His teeth were large like any rat, though. . . not large enough to intimidate Lichthia when even trying. He wasn't fully at ease, he was still very much in a snake's nest but. . . everything was going to be just fine now. . . and he'd even get to go home. Not just home to his burrow. . . but to his colony. His real home. At least at some level. . . he wondered if all this had been worth it for that alone. The peace of mind. . . would soon break. "H-huh? . . ." He'd look up with a gulp. An interest? When the snake's 'not himself'. That. . . didnt sound very good. How could she tell him to just stay calm!? Like it was no big deal. Talk to him as if he wernt even trapped or in danger. . . did she even know what she was saying!? He'd look to be panting a bit, and. . . would blink some. Of couse she was calm, she was in the coils right now. And. . . did it. . . before? That bit of knowledge was bitter-sweet. It meant that such a situation was survivable. It also meant. . . it wasn't too unlikely. He took a big sigh, looking less sure about things. There would be a very quiet whimper, as he stared. "T-that. . . I'm not. . ." He'd take some more breaths and looking down. "I'll t-try. " He'd look up again, trying to force down some confidence. "J-just. . . have to keep talking? . . " He'd pause, and tilt his head some, "not act like food? . . ." It would take a moment for Tarik to reason the first statement, not kicking and screaming, with 'not acting like food'. A few seconds later it would sink in, and his eyes would go a little wider. What kind of mouse would think like that!? "o-oh. . ." he'd mumble nervously. "I. . . t-think I could do that. . ." Of course it would be easy to spot the uncertainty. He'd look to the side some and fidget with his paws. "uh. . . if. . . you woke up too. . . could you help? . . ."

The mouse would tilt her head, considering the question. "Course I'd try," she'd answer. "But it's really what you do that'd be most important, I think." She'd lower her eyelids. "But most likely, this isn't gonna happen t'night. S'come up before, but both times Jaabir was hungrier than he is now. I'm just explaining all this just in case there's any trouble, so you'll know what to do."

The rat would swallow. . . and nod. Her reassurances helped. Particulary the restatement that the last two times were with a much hungrier serpent. Why be. . . so worried? What's the worst that could happen Tarik? He crushes your bones as you wither in pain? The rat cringed and shook his head. He'd then take a large sigh. "Ok. . ." He'd look up again, "t-thanks. . . for warning me. . . and. . . helping. . ." His words would be soft, and tired. . . with a lingering sense of respect.

The mouse would smile at the thanks and nod. "Y'welcome!" she'd answer him. This sort of gratitude she could handle. He was thanking her for the specific things she was doing, not for his life. Jaabir was the one giving him his life. She wasn't the bringer of life and death. She wasn't.

The mouse yawned, and her eyelids drooped. "Think that's everything that's important, for tonight" she'd say softly. "S'lot more to work out, but that can wait." She'd look over to the python. "Jaabir, I think I'm gonna sleep beneath y'coils t'night, like I did that once when I was havin nightmares. That way I'll be out'a sight." She'd sigh and smile. "Plus it's a very pleasant place t'sleep." With the coils all about her, she could pretend she was resting on the inside rather than outside of them. "We'll probably both wake up for you do. If you don't see us in the nest, most likely we'll be just outside."

The serpent would once again go silent. He noticed Tarik's spike of panic while Lichthia explained the proper procedure in dealing with one of his 'episodes'. Jaabir didn't much like the idea of not always having full control over his actions. But, befriending rodents instead of just eating them. . . wasn't entirely natural either: If he didn't choose such, the lose of control wouldn't be much of an issue. He'd sigh though, not looking particularly happy in stressing the rat. Still, he wouldn't interfere, it seemed to calm the rat to speak to Lichthia and act as if there were no giant python before him; why spoil it by talking and proving otherwise? He'd wait till Lichthia changed topics and adressed him, before turning his head to answer. "That'sss fine Lichthia. . ." he'd smile, "and you'll be sssafe there. . ." He'd pause at saying that, thinking maybe that wasn't the best thing to say infront of Tarik. If Lichthia was safe, it implied the rat wouldn't be.

The mouse would smile at the sound of the serpent's voice. Oh it felt so good to be held just now. It felt so good to be helpless. Well. . ..physically helpless anyway. Given what she was saying, it was hard to pretend she was really helpless at all. But it still felt good to be held tight; somewhere deep down, she could still pretend.

At Jaabir's assurances to her, she'd smile to herself guessing the effect they might have on the rat, and quickly continued speaking to distract him. "Tarik, tomorroow y'can take me t'y'burrow," she'd say. I'll need t'know where it is. You and I can work out plans while we wait for Jaabir t'make a catch." She'd smile. "I might introduce you t'our rabbit friend, Jack." Of course the mouse could have waited until tomorrow to explain all this, but she figured talking as though tomorrow was actually going to occur and Tarik was going to be a part of it would help reassure the rat.

Looking up as the mouse and snake spoke, Tarik would calm again. . . briefly. The snake speaking. . . it was a little unnerving at first, but now it wasnt so scary to hear when the subject didnt relate to his life. When Jaabir assured Lichthia of her safety. . . it of course made the topic very much unnerving. It was so casually spoken too. And it brought up so many questions, namely how unsafe the snake thought he was in being above Lichthia. He was basically becoming the first line of defense should the snake go primal. He'd get gobbled up before the mouse could be seen! Ooooh, being a 'shield' that wasn't a very fun job. The paniced thoughts would quiet down. . . as Tarik's ears strained the listen to the mouse. He'd raise his head and give a very shakey nod. Taking her to his burrow? That. . . sounded nice. Well, mostly not being here sounded nice: Didn't mater if the mouse was with him or not. And. . . what was this about a rabbit? Just as Lichthia sought, the rat's mind would stop thinking of terrible things like being crushed and ingested. . . to literal thoughts of peace, comfort. . . and fluffy bunny's. "I-I'll. . . s-show you. . ." he'd pause for a moment and add, "Lichthia." The phrasing would look to be a polite way of trying to say he didn't really want the python invited on that offer. "Y-you can. . . stay." He'd consider things for a moment. "I. . . guess. . . a rabbit could too. . ." His head tilted, "h-he's. . . just a rabbit?" Given Lichthia's taste in company, Tarik had reason to believe Jack might be some sort of monsterous rabbit with a thirst for blood.

The mouse would ignore the invitation for now, and instead focus on the mention of the rabbit. Truth to tell, as much as she was warming up to Tarik, she wasn't going to sleep in the den of a pred who'd tried to eat her anytime soon. Well. . ..except for Jaabir of course. "Yeeeah, Jack's just a rabbit," she'd answer chuckling. She'd shake her head, "He's the sweetest most gentle-hearted furre I have ever known. I don't think he has a mean bone in his body. Never heard him say a harsh word 'bout any other soul. One time . . .." The mouse would smile warming up to the story, ". . . .Tabatha caught him. Seemed t'have him completely dead t'rights, poor bunny was terrified." The mouse would lick her lips. "I was just able t'talk Tabatha into lettin him go." Lichthia would chuckle. "Afterwards. . . he was all sad and feeling sorry for Tabatha, because she didn't have nothin t'eat!" The mouse would laugh again. "I told him not t'worry. I don't think that cat ever goes hungry for too long." She'd sigh, relaxing in the python's coils.

There would be another sigh from the rat. So Jack wasn't a vicious monster. That's good at least, and that would be a difficult predator to warn his colony of. Not only that, but it sounded to be a friendly rabbit as well, that was nice. Given a rat's naturally smaller size to a rabbit, He wouldn't rightly be able to harm him, not as one rat. . . one right that couldn't even handle a mouse. However, he had been part of foraging groups that brought back rabbits that were already long gone, it wasn't bad, but like Lichthia, not something he'd risk getting kicked, beaten, bitten, crushed, sliced, mangaled, or eaten over. Tarik sighed. It would definately be best to be nice around the bunny.

He'd look up and take interest in the story that was spoken. A story about a cute innocent rabbit would definately be a change of pace. Finally, something to put his mind at ease! He'd frown. Not even. . . Not even THREE WORDS before something terrible was mentioned. 'Tabatha' He'd shiver. And she caught the rabbit!? If the mouse walked out of the nest and brought back a stuffed rabbit, he'd probably cry. But no. . . it sounds like he lived. But. . . "t-talked. . . into? . . . " he'd mutter. For one it shocked him that such an infamous feline could be talked into releasing a rabbit she was hunting. And second. . . it bothered him that the very same mouse that was so indifferent to him being swallowed by her python. . . tried to help out this rabbit directly: Obviously he wasn't nearly as liked. Well. . . the rabbit probably didn't try to eat the mouse. . . but it still hurt just the same. He'd look down for a moment and started to take a few breaths, before hearing out the rest. He'd blink, and nod quite firmly. That cat ate for too many stalks of his family tree to ever go hungry. And. . . the worry of the bunny was certianly hard to understand. He for one wouldn't at all be concerned for some cat, especially not one which tried to eat him! Who would feel sorry for something that tried to. . . Oh. He'd sigh again. "H-he s-sounds. . . very kind. . ." He pause and tilt his head. "but. . . h-how?" His head sunk, "s-she. . . d-doesn't let prey go. . ."

At the mention of the rabbit being kind, the mouse would nod. "He's a sweet heart," she'd agree, her voice full of affection

At he rat's confusion, she'd shake her head. "Not generally, no. Least not when she's hungry." She'd open her mouth as though to explain, but then would freeze for a moment in thought. "S'complicated," she'd explain. "Tabatha is very much a pred. . . but she's honorable in her way. She lives by a code. For one thing, she never lies t'prey." The mouse would look down to Tarik. "Or so she tells me, and I have no reason t'doubt her." She'd take a breath, continuing, "I was able t'convince her, that takin Jack would break that code. . ..that it would. . . . be at odds, with certain promises she'd made to me." The mouse's face would split into a wide smug smile. "She was not at all happy with me," she'd say proudly. Getting Tabatha to let Jack go had been one of her more cherished accomplishments, and the fact it made the cat mad had been icing on the cake. "But she did what she thought was right."

Tabatha 'honorable'? Tarik heard many stories of this cat, and the last implication in any of them would regard her as 'honorable'. Most of stories depicted her in. . . not such a good light (as to be expected with any predator which became well known). Cat's in general were none to be merciless and cruel. Surely the mouse was joking. Yet, recalling the serpent, he'd reasoned it wasn't too unlikely. His world-view was crumbling around him. A cat which didn't lie was certainly more believable than this. . . relationship, before him. But. . . how did her. . . honesty, factor into reasoning with her? That didn't make much sense. Unless. . . wait. She manipulated her!? The rat's right eye twitched. How. . . how was this mouse still living? She insulted snakes, angered cats, and who knows what to owls. All he did was try to eat a mouse, and of course. . . he was the one who's life was at stake: Life is fickle.

Jaabir would be listening calmly to to retelling, his tail thumped lightly along the ground. This was a story he liked. He didnt like Jack being scared, but. . . he very much liked the happy ending. Had the story been told by a predator under normal circumstances, it might well be an unhappy ending. However, in this case Jaabir very much liked the outcome. . . he'd of never met Jack otherwise: The fact the rabbit felt sorry for Tabatha highlighted why he liked him so much. He'd be smiling as Lichthia finished, and continued to listen at her explanation of what she did. Ah yes, he remembered feeling some guilt in his mouse upsetting the feline. Though. . . a gift of a squirrel seemed to make up for everything regarding that day: Tabatha liked that squrriel. The snake would laugh, "I think. . . ssshe told me it wasss. . . out of ressspect for me asss a predator. . ." He'd eye Lichthia teasingly, "didn't mention you. . . but guesss that ssstill appliesss. . ."

The mouse laughed at Jaabir's reply. "Course she didn't!" she replied. She'd smile back at the serpent, returning his teasing smile. Did he really think Tabatha would share with her fellow pred how a mouse had bested him.?Then she'd sigh, breakin gher gaze, her head drooping to the side. It felt good to be held, and yet. . .. she wasn't really helpless. The words she had spoken might very well save Tarik, and doom some creature she would never know. "I dunno bout you two," she'd begin, and yawn, "but I am tired. Think I'm about ready to curl up for the night."

Jaabir would give Lichthia a nuzzle along the head. "I sssuppose. . . nowsss a good time to sssleep. . ." He'd yawn wide, his fangs and jaws displayed to their fullest extent. He'd half-way uncoil to create an opening.

A dumbfounded expression still bared, Tarik looked to be lost. He would barely absorb words now. The mention of 'sleep', would invoke a wince from him, however. Oh he was tired of course. More tired than he never had been before, completely drained mentally, physically, and emotionally. Yet, the prospect of 'sleep' was of no comfort. It meant he would once again be in the coils of a snake, a snake which could easily crush his bones should he stir in the night. As if he wasn't worried enough, the rat would be treated to the sight of Jaabir's open maw. A low shaky *squeeeak. . .* could be heard ever so faintly. Tarik would swallow hard and tense, looking down and shaking. It. . . troubled him greatly to imagine going down that. "N-not. . . me. . ." he'd mumble under his breath.

The mouse would slide down from the coils, stretching with relief. "Really, Tarik?' she'd ask, hearing him answer. "With what y'been through, y'oughta be sleepier than any of us." She'd head over to where she'd been to fetch her staff. "Betcha y'fall asleep for y'know it. . ." she'd yawn, and look to the python. "If you curl up, Jaabir, we can find our spots."

Tarik would sigh, "not sure how. . ." He'd slowly raise his head and nod. The look in his eyes would uncertainly leave no doubt how exhausted he was. There would be an attempt to move a leg forward, but they felt glued. . . it was hard to walk toward a snake. Instead he'd look to Lichthia and remain where he was.

Jaabir would do his best to not be so 'terrifying', but it's difficult when even your yawns invoke fear. Still, and while not outwardly displayed, he would feel some guilt in the rat's worry. He felt the best thing to do, was to smile calmly with soft eyes, and rest his head down along his coils. Looking to Lichthia, he'd nod, shifting his body and winding in on himself as before. He'd glance over to Tarik, finding that rat's fear more-than-noticable. "I won't. . . ssstrike at you thisss time. . . you'll climb in yoursself. . ."

The mouse would pick up her staff and walk over towards Tarik, staying between him and the entrance to the burrow. She'd wait until Jaabir was ready, then put a paw around the back of the rat. "Alright, y'nearly there," she'd tell him. "Just keep thinking, only gotta get through one more night and then. . ." she'd take a moment to yawn, ". . .only more night, and then you'll be safe, and you'll be able to go home." She'd put gentle pressure on the back of the rat, guiding him towards the python. "Y'might find it easier, if y'just look downwards," she'd advise him.

Tarik would raise his head timidly to Jaabir, his paws fiddling against themselves. He'd swallow and nod, but struggle to move a paw forward. The touch against his back invoked a hard wince and a tiny squeak. Turning his head slowly he'd look up to the mouse, and feeling a strange sense of reassurance would calm him. His ears flickered at the words, and his mind would settle on the thoughts of his family he so longed for. As she gave her nudge, he'd manage one step. . . then another. Five steps later, he'd freeze, eyes wide with fear. Lichthia's suggestion would be met with a frail, "y-y-yeah. . ." and his head would downcast.

The mouse would gently stroke the rat's bag and guide him forward. She'd sigh inwardly when the rat came to a stop. Ohhhh, she was tired! She wanted to go to sleep! "S'alright. . ." she managed, rubbing the rat's back, suppressing thoughts of telling Jaabir this wasn't going to work and he might as well eat the rat up. "Y'just have a little further to go, then lie down, sleep, and then we'll be workin on gettin y'aback t'your folk. Y'not doing anything I haven't done many times. Or Jack for that matter, he was scared of Jaabir too when he first met him, but he sleeps t'gether with us often now." She'd gently urge him forward, wishing courage had been one of the rat virtues. "Just get y'legs movin a little further, and then we can all go to sleep."

The rat would nod steadily to the words. They helped, but her words of 'doing the same' didnt give him much peace of mind anymore. This 'mouse' conversed with owls, cats, snakes and who knows what else: Tarik somehow doubted he could do much of the same with such calmness. . . or without going into shock. However, the mention of the scared little bunny rabbit would provide some comfort. It didn't exactly cripple his pride so much, that was already severally mangled at this point, but it did make him feel that it was possible for something that didn't sound like it could be demon possessed, to survive a night with the snake. He'd breath deeply, and trudge along once more. Never once this time, did his eyes drift to the exit. . . he knew there was no true freedom there: He'd die. When the dark tan scales were in view, even with looking to the ground, the rat would stand in place. . . with intensified trembling. "J-just. . . o-one. . . n-night. . ." he'd repeat to himself in whisper.

"S'alright, Tarik," the mouse would mumble. "Y'doin well! Just a little further." She'd sigh. "Y'know he actually likes y'now. Least a little. He respects y've been this brave, y'come this far, 'nd he wants you to succeed." There'd be another yawn then, "S'just a few more steps. Do it for your kin. Do it for your family. They need you y'know, need y't'come through." She'd swallow, steadying herself. "I can fend off one rat like you, but you rats send out foragin parties. I dunno if I could fend off five rats. . . ten. And if that were ever t'happen, I don't even wanna think what Jaabir would do. I'm pretty sure it'd be the end of y'colony." There'd be another yawn. "So you gotta be brave. They're dependin on you. They have no idea the danger they're in, and there's no one can tell 'em but you." She'd swallow. "I'll carry you the rest of the way if y'need me too. . ..but y'gotta do this."

Tarik would look to Lichthia subtly, "r-really? . . ." he'd say softly to her mention of Jaabir 'liking him'. He'd shake his head, he couldn't imagine this. . . giant python, truly caring: It was likely a sick joke to get him to be hopeful. As the mouse continued, he'd immediately reconsider that thought. From what he's heard, he could very well imagine the snake caring. . . caring about the mouse enough to kill all off his kin. He'd tremble and wince, nodding slowly, and taking a large breath. He'd slowly lift his right paw, then follow with the left, and a few steps after, he'd be there. . . close enough to accend. "Y-y-you. . ." he'd swallow, "n-need to. . . g-go first. . . r-right?"

The mouse would feel relief as the rat took a step. It was perahps selfish; Yes, everything she was saying was true, or might be true at least (she had no idea if a foraging party of rats could catch her), Tarik's life hung in the balance, Tarik's colony might hang in the balance, but really, she just wanted to go to sleep! She'd smile and pat his back. "S'fine," she'd assure, quickly sliding her staff underneath a coil, and pulling herself up in front of the rat, showing her trust by turning her back to him as she lead the way crawling up the coils.

Tarik would watch with great hesitation as Lichthia climbed. His eyes would drift to the side, giving a final contemplation of running. The rat wondered, if he died in the night. . . this moment would be the only time to alter his fate. But. . . he'd of course consider, the same could be said if he ran and was (likely) struck down. He'd sigh, and remain standing, head still down. . . before raising a fearful paw and settling it on Jaabir's cool scales. With his arms trembling, it would take him some effort to follow-suite, and he even half-way slide down on his first attempt. He'd force himself up once more, this time more successful, and move up behind Lichthia, nearly bumping her in his nervousness.

Seeing the rat follow, Lichthia would nod and continue climbing up. She'd climb slowly, and assuming he followed, she'd stop and kneel about half way up the coils, far enough from the edge she hoped to avoid tempting him to leap for the ground, and far enough from the head she hoped to avoid terrifying him too much.

She'd smile, turning and reaching up a paw, and if he took it, gently pull at it,, wordlessly urging him to lie down. "Y'gonna be fine," she'd assure him confidently. She was lying of course, she didn't know if he'd be fine or not. But it was a permissible lie, she felt, because if he believed her, he'd be less likely to panic in the night, and more likely to make it o morning. It was the sort of lie who's very telling made it more likely to be true. She'd gesture towards the dip between two coils. "Just lie down, make y'self comfortable, close your eyes, and think how happy you'll be to see those folk you've missed," she'd say softly. "I won't be far, I'll be right beneath you," she'd assure him. "Y've had a hard day. Y'just rest, sleep as much as y'can, get y'strength back."

The larger rodent extended a nervous paw. . . ready to accept any help he could in what was, to him, a terrifying prospect: Willingly just. . . 'getting into' a snake's coils. To Tarik the prospect was just as unnerving as walking up to a cat and pushing your head beneath their claws. He was giving a creature of higher power, which could easily end his life in one of the worst way imaginable, full range to do as it liked. . . without being captured first: His instincts begged him to reconsider. And so, he'd be wince hard as he was pulled up, turning his head around. . . his legs desperately seeking to push away. At the assurance, an ear twitched, and his legs began to settle. This mouse, while his earlier experiences made her out to be a monster much like the snake, truly did give him comfort. She knew his snake, she had done the same thing: If she seemed so certain that he'd make it through the night. . . then. . . it made it harder to imagine otherwise. Tarik took a large breath, "o-ok. . .", and began to creep forward, slowly placing a leg into the opened section of coil. . . and then another. . . as he closed his eyes and settled.

The serpent, as before, would remain silent and allow the rat some comfort. Tarik was looking away from him, trying to calm his nerves and not imagine a hungry snake: In speaking, all that would be cast away. Jaabir would smile though, keep himself relaxed and intimidating, as best he could, should the rat look up. Feeling the warm bodies of both the rat and mouse ascending him. . . it was hard not to keep quiet: It felt nice. ['There's two small mammals on you! Strike! You can eat them!'] Jaabir blinked, and swallowed hard, struggling now not to tense up. Instead, he'd immedately shut his eyes and take a few calming breaths. Once the rat laid out. . . the python made a larger gap for Lichthia to climb in, so she could get underneath.

Lichthia would take her time, never letting go of Tarik, guiding him down into his bed between the coils. "That's good, y'doin fine," she'd encourage. "Just take it easy, try n'rest." She couldn't help but grin. It was so ironic, those coils that terrified the rat were to her the one place in the world she felt completely safe. There was no creature that could touch her when she was nestled in the python's coils. No creature but Jaabir himself of course, if he lost himself and took her. But if that were ever to happen, she'd just be safer still. She'd glance over to smile to Jaabir, only to see his eyes were closed and he was taking deep breaths. Well that wasn't surprising, he was hungry and he had two rodents in his coils after all. She hoped when she woke up in the morning Tarik would still be there, but if he wasn't and if there was a fresh bulge in Jaabir's coils, well, that wouldn't be so bad. Jaabir might feel guilty of course, but she reckoned she could cheer him up. "Alright, slide y'tail down there," she instructed the rat as Jaabir opened a passage for her. "That way y'can feel me down there, and you'll know you're not alone." Lichthia suspected she'd regret making that offer. Well, hopefully he'd let her get some sleep that night. "Alright, m'goin down," she'd tell Tarik, "Sleep well." And so she burrowed downwards, touching the rat's tail all the way down. Mmmmmm, she didn't sleep under Jaabir's coils like this often. It felt nice. It felt very nice. "Night, Tarik," she'd whisper. "Night, Jaabir. I love you. I love you so much." She'd yawn and curl up. In less than five minutes, she'd drift off to sleep, assuming nothing acted to prevent it.

His tail draping down as directed, the rat would give final weary look and nod to Lichthia. This would be the last he'd see of her, he reasoned, if he didn't make it. It's not that he particularly cared about seeing 'her', given everything that's happened. Instead it's more that it was yet another reminder of what might happen to him: Seemingly 'insignificant' things, suddenly felt much more important and thought-provoking. Tarik would sigh as Lichthia moved under him, and his tail would curl ever so gently against and around part of the mouse as she touched it.

The rat's tail-movement would occur without direct thought, given rat tails, as a balancer for rats, would automatically contour and 'wrap' around the nearest object. The rat tail would would feel just a tad 'bristly' but otherwise smooth: Of course, not as smooth as a mouse tail, and instead would have just a little more texture to the skin. Another important function of rat tail's, like all rodent tails. . . would be its function as a 'heat-loss' organ: It's job would be to gather all the excess heat in the rodent and hold it all in. . . omitting it until the rat cooled. Given Tarik's nervousness and frets. . . his body heat was certainly climbing, and the tail would have its work cut out for it. As an advantage to Lichthia, she would have a nice 'bed warmer'.

Jaabir would take another deep, near-blissful, sigh. Ooooh, it was really hard to keep his tongue from tasting the air. He knew it would be a bad idea, and as such, controlled himself. As a creature who could smell fear, and as a creature who could have their primal state provoked by fear. . . Tarik's obvious terror felt to be both an inviting and forbidden temptation. For the rat's sake, he hoped the creature would calm once he went to sleep. . . else he wasn't so sure this would work. "Good night Lichthia. . ." the snake would say softly, calmly. "And good night Tarik. . ." He'd pause and think to add to Lichthia's white lie, "I'll sssee you both in the morning. Jussst relax Tarik, everything will be jussst fine. . ." and with that, Jaabir's eyes would shut and he'd breath steadily.

For the rat above Lichthia, it would feel good to feel something other than the Jaabir, just as the mouse intended, and it would help to keep him just a little more 'sane'. "G-good. . . night. . ." he'd say belatedly to Lichthia, and not-so belatedly to Jaaibr, forcing his eyes shut as he did. The snake's words did carry a little tremble through him, that started at his ears and ended up at the tip of his tail. Still, the content of those words. . . would help to put him at ease. The creature around him, and the creature below him, seemed to be confident that he'd make it. Such confidence certainly began to put him at ease. He was still uncertain of course, and struggled to rest, despite how drained he was. It would ultimately be the idea of seeing his family once again. . . that provided the most comfort, and it wouldn't take long for him to finally relax enough to slip off to slumber: The final thoughts in his mind, being ones of hope.