FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

It was a sunny day, as the little mouse anthro made her way down a line of roots at the edge of a field, eyes bright, whiskers twitching as she looked across the open field. It would be unusual to see a doe out alone far from any mouse colony, particularly a doe whose robes couldn't quite conceal the curves of a rodent who was far better fed than most. Despite her vulnerability, she looked as though she didn't have a care in the world. Sure, she kept to the roots and took care whenever she approached what appeared to a blind curve. But there was a certain relaxed cadence to her stride, even as she peered about, one that you normally saw either on preds or prey when they were safe among their own kind.

She inhaled deeply, looking at the flowers. Lichthia made a point of picking different routes home, so she could explore new territory, and the small grassy clearing was new to her. There were a few flowers, and nuts scattered about. She'd definitely have to bring Jaabir here, she decided.

The doe wouldn't be entirely alone in her walk through the field. In the skies, there was sound pleasant chirping. . . contented songbirds of all sorts. And just above, the occasional movement of branches from a tree dweller. None seemed to pay much mind to the mouse, be it concern, interest, or even a greeting. It was just a mouse after all, not one of their own. Still, there was another going about their day. . . and being to the ground, exerting at least some form of caution themselves. A huge. . . white. . . rat.

His form appeared unnatural. . . heavily muscled and overly large. That perhaps wasn't even his most striking feature. Bright red eyes would pierce forward, marking the creature as albino. There was something about that red gaze that could evoke a sense of uneasiness. If that wasn't enough, his muzzle bore long yellowed teeth and paws held. . . sharp overgrown claws. At a glance, one might not think him to be a rat at all, instead. . . some sort of monster. If one could get past his physical features, they might too notice a large scaly 'belt' about his waist, which held several bags. Those sacks had a strange look to them. . . furry, with odd 'spotted' patterns.

Given his appearance, one might imagine even a fox or wolf to keep their distance. However, just as the mouse, he'd keep to the side. . . not leaving himself open. Occasionally he would pause, his nose twitching and directing him to a few laid walnuts. He'd quickly pick them up, inspect, and stash away. None of the sacks appeared quite filled, suggesting that it hadn't yet been the most successful of days. He'd almost think to turn back, before catching a stronger sent: More nuts it would seem and. . . hmm, what was that? His head turned, focusing. His sight wouldn't be much use. . . like all rats, things would grow blurry after a short distance. He'd continue to smell, and as the winds shifted he'd identify more clearly. A mouse. A. . . doe mouse? That was odd. It was rare for one to be outside their colony's nest. Regardless, he took interest, it was hard to pass up extra food. . . and meat provided a welcomed variety. He'd continue on, body tensing. . . movements slow.

The wind wasn't with the mouse and her sense of smell wasn't as good as a rats, but her hearing was perfect. She'd come to a stop and her ears would swivel forwards, as she suddenly stood completely still. What was that? A branch in the wind? No. . . . sounded low to the ground, deliberate, maybe a rabbit? Seemed big for that. And now it was silent. .. . .well, almost silent. A smile spread across the mouse's face at a barely detectable sound. It was going slow now, slow and stealthy, almost as though some creature out there had caught her scent and was contemplating a late breakfast of mouse. Her head shifted as in a split second, she took in the terrain. She could sprint down the hill there, or run into the brush there, or even make for the river that way. . . or she could duck behind that rock and take a swing at whatever it was as it came by, certainly the most tempting option! First things first, though, she wanted to know what this was. She purposely stepped on a branch to make some noise, then drew back and knelt down in a hollow next to a bush. Whatever it was, if it was stalking her, would probably come around the hill just there. With luck, she'd see it, before it saw her.

The large rat continued to inch his way forward, and with his great mass, gave something of a 'waddle'. He knew his target was close now, and the scent was beginning to drive at his instincts, make him hunger. He'd come to a pause, and sniff again, ears alert. That's when he caught the sound. It must be. . . just around that bend. While not overly experienced in hunting, he had learned enough in the last few months to avoid any sort of rustle. . . even in eagerness. He'd hold his position, before taking a few careful steps forward. Soon making his way around. . . and down the hill. He'd come to a halt, giving the mouse a first glimpse of his imposing visage. His wide muzzle raised and nose twitched strong. . . as his bright red eyes scanned ahead.

Having retreated to the hollow, the mouse knelt stock still, senses focussed ahead. Whatever it was it was taking its time. . . . that is assuming of course she hadn't just imagined. . . .no wait. . . there was movement. There it was, oh it was big. It was. . . . . As the huge face appeared, the mouse's eyes went wide, and a smile of pure delight crossed her face. 'What the hell are you?' she thought to herself. Had her colony the mythos for such, she would have identified it as a troll. As it was, all she knew was she'd never seen anything like it, and it was wonderful!

She did, after a moment, recognize it as a rat, albeit the biggest rat she'd ever seen. A big rat with red eyes. . . . . .The mouse blinked. Oh no. . . . Evidently Tarik had a gift for understatement. Well, this might not be the rat mentioned, she'd find out for herself shortly. "Bylun!" she'd call out, pressing her staff down and catapulting herself out of her hiding spot, ready to tumble back in and run away, should the rat come for her. "Bylun, I been lookin for you!" She'd laugh and assuming her greeting had caught him by surprise as she'd hoped, she'd begin walking towards him.

The rat's head would slowly move from left to right, focused. He didn't hear movement, but that smell was too strong. His prey had to be close. If it knew he was there, it might be hiding. . . getting ready to run. An ear would quickly flick and his head turned to the sound of rustling bushes. His legs would suddenly tense to give chase, expecting a mouse to squeal out and flee. Instead, there didn't appear to be any running, and. . . that didn't sound like a squeal. It was his name? He struggled to think. It all happened so suddenly, he wasn't sure at all what to do. His eyes took a intent stare. . . with a tilted head. That was about all he could manage. Bylun could make out the small white form moving closer. "Huh?. . ." a deep confused voice would mutter. He'd sniff again, maybe this wasn't a mouse after all. Maybe this was a. . . very small rat from his old colony. He couldn't always trust his vision, but his nose would dispel that notion. "Wut. . . "

"Now first things first, Bylun,. . ." the mouse would interrupt him, wanting to keep the initiative, and keep the rat off balance. She could tell from his stance that while confused, he hadn't entirely dropped the idea of attacking her. She in turn was thinking what she could do, just in case. Usually her staff gave her the longer reach, but those arms of his gave him an advantage. On the other hand, he looked to be slow, she could imagine she might even be able to dart between his legs; after he all there must be some reason a huge muscled hulk like him was a gatherer and not a hunter. Yet even as these thoughts flitted through her mind, somehow it didn't slow her speech down in the least; she didn't want to give too much time to think, until she'd given her message. ". . . I got some food for y'here if y'like!" she'd say brightly, opening her sack. It was a little awkward, because she wasn't going to let go of her staff given the circumstances, but she'd manage to cinch it open. "I got some berries and nuts y'welcome to if y'like," she'd say brightly, and with a coy smile she'd add, "and some mouse, which y'ain't." She'd pour out the food before her, tossing it at his feet. "Now just in case y'thinkin of goin beyond the nuts n'berries, I feel it's my responsibility t'warn you I'm not as helpless as I appear." She spoke light heartedly, and it might be very difficult to tell if she was joking, making fun of herself, or making a genuine threat. She wouldn't stop talking either. "Sides, y'friend Tarik's a friend of mine, and he'd be unhappy if y'did me harm." She'd grin. "So if y'll have a seat, so I can be at ease, we can talk and I can tell y'some news y'll wanna hear." The mouse smiled up brightly, her staff balanced in her paws, but otherwise without the faintest trace of fear. Secretly, she thought it would be really awesome to have a fight with a giant like him!

Slowly the rat's instincts and drive to lunge were getting a bit lost. He had little idea as to what was going on, and his intent stare would almost go blank. "Uh. . ." It didn't help that he couldn't get a word in edgewise as the mouse just kept squeaking at him. What was it going on about? Why was it throwing food? His head would slowly glance down at the offering and back up. It would still take a few seconds for the rat to get caught up. He'd blink, looking over her. The 'warning' alone, of her not being helpless, didn't seem to have much impact. But hearing that name, did give change to his posture. When she finished, his muzzle raised "You know. . . . Tur-ik?" His voice was still deep, exceedingly low pitched. He'd wait a while longer, head still tilted, before his great weight would shift. Slowly the albino's tail-end and back-legs would move into a sitting position, red eyes peering at the strange white mouse.

The mouse would lean against her staff. Relaxing a little as the great rat sat down, her eyes roam over him admiringly. "I more than know, Tarik," she answered, her voice now in a normal cadence. "Tarik's a good friend of mine." She'd smile. "Otherwise, how would I know, your name's Byrun?" she'd ask. "How would I know y'a gatherer." She'd pause. "Or how would I know, y'carried extra heavy weights for you fought Adri, and y'almost beat him?"

Eyes looking upwards, she'd smile and shake her head. "Though I gotta say. . . ..Tarik did not do you justice." Her smile widened. "He said you were strong, n'were you bigger than him." She'd chuckle lightly. "I gotta say that's one of the more profound understatements I have ever heard."

The rat continued to loom down, expression taking a sense of wonder. Some little mouse, knowing all these things about him. Knowing his friend Tarik? It was unexpected, but he wouldn't show signs of doubt. It had been months since he last saw any of his family. He'd lean himself forward, nodding his head, the mouse having captured the full attention of the 'beast'. "Do know Tur-ik. . ." he'd mumble, sounding impressed.

At the 'compliments', Bylun would almost not seem to understand what mouse was getting across, head tilting as before. Slowly a smile would form along his muzzle, a bashful sort of smile. He certainly wouldn't appear to be contemplating breakfast anymore. "How friends with Tur-ik? Mouse." His attention would leave her for a moment, his head raising. . . searching.

The mouse relaxed even more at the gentle giants bashful smile. Yeah, that's how Tarik had described him, there was a connection now. Even so, she wouldn't entirely let down her guard, habitually glance over her shoulder now as she always did. After all, Byrun might be living with another exile. At the question, she'd smile. That was a delicate matter. Bylun was an outcast, so she could perhaps be tell him more than another colony rat; but it wouldn't be wise to say too much, and besides, she didn't want to embarrass Tarik in front of his friend. "Oh I met him, same way I met you. He'd been exiled for a little while, was havin trouble foragin on account of the rain, n'was getting tired of berries n'nuts., thinkin of supplmementin his diet." The mouse grinned. "I managed to persuade him otherwise." She'd glance downwards, tracing her stick across the ground.

Bylun looked back down. "Tur-ik got. . . bunished?" He'd almost frown some at that thought. The mention how the two met, the rat managed to understand what she meant. That Tarik was hunting her just like he had. His ears lowered a little to show at least some embarrassment at the mouse's mention. Though, the thought prompted him to take a short glance over her. She was. . . a nice looking mouse. Much fatter than the few he caught before. Lots of meat. His head would shake lightly. This mouse knew his friend, she could show him where he was. He could eat her afterwards, but he wouldn't want the first member of his family he had seen in months. . . to be mad at him. Maybe if Tarik said it was ok. "Where is Tur-ik now? Mouse." he'd think to ask, nose twitching.

"Well I believe he is back home with his kin!" the mouse would answer, picking up a piece of fallen nut and chewing at it. "I first met him weeks ago. Since then he worked very hard gatherin food. . . " She'd pause and give a little smile. ".I may have helped him a little." Inhaling, she'd continue,. "Last I saw him, he was carrying two huge bags filled t'burstin with nuts and berries n'such, with four more ready for his kin t'come n'fetch, on his way back home, determined t'make amends." The mouse would sigh wistfully. "Course I couldn't accompany him, they would have mistaken me for the welcome home supper," she'd grin briefly, dropping her gaze, smile fading quickly. "But I assume he made it home alright."

The large albino tilted his head. It didn't make a lot of sense to him, that Tarik had be sent out and. . . managed to get back in. "Went. . . back?" His eyes grew a little wider, surprised. Gathering food to share with the colony, an offering that would grant an 'outsider' the status of family, it would take a least enough to feed everyone for one meal. Living alone. . . it was difficult enough to just survive. You couldn't stay out for too long at one time. How did Tarik manage, and so quickly? The help of a small mouse didn't seem significant. Yet, just as before, he wouldn't carry doubts.

She'd glance backwards. "I expect he'll be very busy for a while, fulfillin challenges and doin his job as a gatherer again. But he knows where t'find me. I expect he'll come n'visit eventually, n'when he does, I know he'll be very happy t'learn for sure y'still alive." In a softer voice, she'd add, "I do hope he manages t'come by soon. I miss him."

He'd begin to sigh, feeling a bit mixed in his emotions. While he was sad before that Tarik had got sent out. . . it was also a little upsetting that he couldn't see him. His eyes went back to the mouse, studying her. Maybe eating her wouldn't matter after all? Still, he wouldn't show signs of looking to feed. It just didn't feel right somehow, as appealing as the doe was. And. . . "Vis. . .ut?" His high spirits were beginning to return. "Mouse, show Tur-ik. . . to find By-lun? He'd nod slow. Maybe, he'd reason, Tarik could help him get back as well. It gave the albino something to hope for, and certainly gave him every reason not to hurt this mouse.

The mouse leaned back against her staff, smiling, watching the rat. She was actually fully aware of the occasional appraising glances he gave her body. It neither offended her, nor worried her. Preds were preds after all, and couldn't help their nature; she was only aware of the gazes through long experience with Jaabir after all. And while she could see the desire, there was no aggression visible. And she'd been careful to point out she'd tell Tarik about Bylun, in part because she figured it would give him yet another reason not to try anything.

"I'd be happy to," she'd answer. "I know he'd wanna find you, he spoke affectionately of you." She'd pause, lowering her eyes a moment. "If y'd be willing t'tell me where your burrow is, I'd swear not to tell no one except Tarik, or another rat who is your friend." It was an odd offer; usually that would be said from a pred to a prey. After all, why should he care if he a mouse knew where his burrow was. What was she going to do? Sneak in and nibble him to death? "Otherwise, I'll just tell him where I saw you," she finished.

Bylun sat there for a moment, smiling again. Such an imposing figure, looking all too happy, friendly. That would almost seem more unnatural than any aspect of his appearance. The offer prompted a small raise of his head. He'd only blink twice, before giving a slow nod. It was strange to him, but. . . everything about this mouse had been strange. Even if she had been a wolf, a chance to see a friend again would almost feel worth that risk. A small mouse? . . . he wouldn't think twice. "Yes. Bylun show den." He'd seem more than eager, looking behind them and rising to his feet.

The mouse looked upwards, chin against her staff, delighting in the huge rat's smile. She had a soft spot for innocent smiling monsters. She smiled to herself as he took her into his confidence. Ohhh, he was lucky, she reflected, that she scrupulously kept to her neutral position with Jaabir, or she might have been sorely tempted to tell the python where he could find the biggest rat she'd ever seen. Or maybe not. True, there was plenty of meat and muscle there, but not enough fat, too much bone. He looked like he'd be. . .gristly. . .her love could do better.

She wasn't sure what he had in mind, but would bow her head in a polite gesture, and then follow his lead, rising to follow if he rose himself.

The rat would stretch out his long form. Looking over to the mouse standing beside him, his glance came to a pause. Not on the mouse this time, but instead the small collection of food she tossed to him in all that confusion. "Oh." He'd comment. Though the rat was excited to leave, he still needed food. The mouse would be going back with him and typically that would be enough, but if he couldn't snack on her. . . it wouldn't do him much good. Even if he had caught her for that purpose, leaving behind some perfectly good nuts and berries wasn't wise. "Should take. . . gathur." Bylun put a paw to his side, and untied one of his sacks that already had a few nuts. He'd take each piece of food, and go about placing it in. From the outside, the sack he had held could be seen as black, with white spots. . . fuzzy looking.

The mouse stopped, eyes furrowed uncertain what the rat was up to for a moment, before her ears lowered in embarrassment. Of course. The food! She was really spoiled, there was a time when it would never have occurred to her to leave perfectly good food lying on the ground. Now of course, there was always plenty, everywhere she went. She'd hesitate a moment; normally she'd help him, but she wanted to make clear the food was his now, she didn't want to make any suggestion she was taking it back. After a short while, she'd set about picking it up, but would hand it to him, rather than putting it in her own bag. It was then she'd notice the fuzzy nature of the bags he carried. Her first thought was, she really ought to be horrified. But she didn't feel it. She'd already known he predded mice after all, evidently she wasn't the first and he'd had some success, and if he was going to eat them, well, it wasn't like they'd need their skin or fur anymore! And they did make nice looking bags. Of course when the day came that Jaabir took her, he'd leave nothing behind. . . . a thought that pleased her.

Bending down now, the rat wouldn't look too concerned about the mouse taking the nuts and berries for herself. . . not when she was handing them off. Given how docile he seemed now when not hunting, it could be wondered if he could even be possessive. He'd even acknowledge her help and hold open his sack on occasion, smiling and nodding his head. Inside the sacks would look very smooth, with a soft pink color. The rat himself didn't seem to realize or take notice, that even seeing such a sight would terrorize a typical mouse. . . or at least make them feel a little sick in the stomach. "Thank you mouse." he would say kindly, reaching a paw down to tie off the first bag and place it along his belt. The belt could be seen as a dark brown, and the texture rough and scaly. Another empty bag would be pulled off, this one looking like a stitching of two sets of 'material, the black with spots, and some solid grey. "Tur-ik do well? Seem good?" He'd question, as he gathered the remaining few pieces, and tied off the second bag as well. Bylun would then get to his feet, and gesture the mouse to follow.

Having picked up the food, the mouse studied the giants clothes, both the bags and the belt with interest. At the question, she nodded. "I believe so!" she answered. "Like I said, I haven't seen him since he left. But I do believe he made it back!" As the rat moved off, she'd scamper after him, the two quite the contrasting pair, the innocent little white mouse scurrying along behind the lumbering ferocious giant. "Course there was far more food than he could carry, so he left four bags behind, for his brethren to come back and pick up," she'd explain. "I didn't stick around after he left, 'cause I'm sure the rats would have thought I belonged with the bags!" That was said with an amused lilt. "But I did check back the next day. The bags were gone, and there were lots o'rat tracks!" She'd shrug. "Soooo. . .. that tells me he made it back to his kin, so he could tell 'em about the bags, and I guess they must have accepted his offer, because they took the food and he didn't come back." She'd sigh wistfully. "That was just two days ago."

Bylun would seem happy with that answer. "Good. . . good" he'd reply, moving forward in long strides. He'd occasionally turn his head to her as they walked, looking noticeably interested at details of Tarik's return. He'd give just a slight nod to her own assessment of 'belonging with the bags', and not appearing to take it as a joke. To a colony of rats, a mouse her size would at least be comparable to a few sacks of nuts. Fortunately, Bylun wouldn't take hold of that thought. . . more focused on idea this mouse would help him see one friend again, than using her to see them all. Even had he came to that conclusion, he would still be short for a good while. He'd give another nod as the mouse finished. "Yes. . . fumily took back." he'd agree, still smiling broadly. It was a pleasing subject for him, certainly. Maybe if another gatherer could do it, so could he? It was a little hard for him to imagine. So much collected. The large rat wouldn't even consider that Tarik had always been worse at gathering than himself, and was considerably weaker: Just that the task itself, gathering at least six full sacks worth of food, seemed too difficult without risk. Nuts could be stored over time, but berries would spoil if it wasn't all at once. It was then he was reminded, of the one full bag he managed earlier. He'd blink, head turning. "Where mouse get food? So much. . . " Maybe the help she gave Tarik, was useful after all.

Scurrying along to keep up, the mouse smirked, glancing up at the rat. Just because he was big and slow spoken didn't mean he was stupid. This was delicate. "Oh I've always been good at foragin'," she answered, a little evasive but true. She'd survived on her own for months, more than survived, she was quite the delectable when Jaabir caught her, even if she was even more tempting now.

As she spoke those words, the reddened gaze surveyed her once again. "Yes. . ." He seemed to agree, a mouse that plump must be good at collecting food.

The mouse grinned, seeing the way the rat was looking her over. "As for where I go, I go the same place everyone else goes t'forage. M'just good at gettin' there when the preds aren't there." She'd pause a moment; that was certainly true before she met Jaabir. "N'm'love helps me," she'd add.

Still listening, the rat would lead the mouse toward thicker brush, away from the open field. The way she spoke so naturally, it sounded like she was speaking the truth. . . not that giant rat would have suspected the little mouse to lie to him. Still, it was hard to think she managed that much herself. As she finished, he'd look back to her. A second mouse? That made a little more sense. "Is mate. . . good foruge too?"

"M'love?" the mouse answered. And then she laughed! She couldn't help it, the image of the python trying to pluck berries or pick up nuts or gather grass was just too funny. "No," she'd answer, "he's awful at it." She'd grin . "But he's good at keepin' watch over me. . . . .good at gaurdin' me. . . .good at makin' sure I'm safe." She'd give a shrug. "Hardest thing about foragin' is knowin' every second y'out there, y'might become some pred's dinner." She'd glance upwards. "Havin someone y'know y'can trust t'watch y'back makes it a lot easier."

The large albino would just look down and blink, not quite sure what was so funny. He'd eventually nod, thinking maybe the other mouse was so bad, that the idea of him being good. . . made the doe laugh: It didn't seem very nice though. It also didn't help to lift his earlier confusion. Maybe the buck watching was enough to give her more time? Fellow gatherers in his colony, took turns watching for each other. A 'spotter' did allow one to gather more than they could otherwise, and it did make things safer. But it didn't seem like that would be enough to make them so. . . well off. Especially not for mice, who would have even more dangers to watch for. He wouldn't question it more, however. They'd reach higher foliage then, just on the outskirts of the field, and he'd motion through it. There would still be a ways of walking, between a close cluster of trees. The giant could just barely fit through. Anything other than a rodent, which could squeeze themselves about tight places, would probably not be able to pass. In the middle there would be a large stone. Bylun would trudge over it, and showing little effort, would raise the boulder and force it to the side.

The mouse would be alert, eyes flitting about as they came to the high foliage. "S'good. . ." she'd mutter approvingly. It was even better guarded than her own home. The tight fit also made her feel a little more at ease. After their talk about Tarik, she doubted the giant would go for her, but the temptation to add some meat to his larder along with the fruit and nuts would be greatest when they were near his home, with a potential prey so close at hand. In that event, she'd be able to jump through the breaks in the trees faster than he could. If there was anything the mouse understood, it was the ways of preds. As they came to the door, she couldn't help but smile in admiration. A huge stone even Tarik might not be able to lift, it was far more impressive than her own doorway.

"Think that's far enough for me," she'd say softly. She liked him, and she was beginning to have some trust in his intentions, but certainly not enough to venture into his lair. "Next time I meet Tarik, I can bring him right here." Yet another reminder she might be the key to him ever seeing his friend again, or perhaps even another rat. It was a pity she couldn't be more forthcoming to him about how she was able forage so well. She liked the fellow, and wanted to be honest with him. But if he knew he'd just showed his den to the companion of a python, he might reconsider letting her go. Indeed, she was fairly sure he'd at least feel an impulse to reconsider doing so, with both home and potential meat both so close.

The great rat's home would have a rather large opening, though perhaps unsurprising given its resident. From where the mouse was standing, it was too dark to see much inside. "Yes. . . good. Safe." he'd mutter, agreeing with the mouse's earlier comment, friendly smile still bared. At her decision to leave, however, he'd look to frown. "Mouse can come. . . inside." he'd gesture. There would be a pause as he thought for a moment, perhaps considering why a little mouse might not accept his invitation. "Bylun. . . not eat." he'd think to make clear, "Tur-ik friend."

The mouse would hesitate, looking up at the hulking brute. The issues were delicate, should she insult his hospitality, should she put herself at risk? In the end, what decided it wasn't any subtle calculation, but the simple fact she'd grown to like the fellow that decided it for her. Her face would split into a grin at his assurance. "Well alright!" she'd answer, walking forward. "But I'm trustin' you!" She'd walk forward through the entrance. "M'not normally one t'enter a rat's lair." She hoped he was as honest as he seemed, by that point she would have hated having to hurt him.

Bylun smiled wide and kept to the side, allowing her to enter first. He'd give a nod, seeming to understand the seriousness of things for her, or at least trying to best he could. "Yes. Trust Bylun. Tur-ik friend safe." The mouse would first find the entrance to be at a lengthy incline, at least lengthy to a mouse. Should she walk or slide inside, she'd find the path ending just near an empty wall, also closed off to the left. To the right however, would be a large open area, grass and fur scattered around most the floor. The 'bedding' wouldn't seem as thorough as Lichthia's own burrow, but the lumbering giant seemed to at least make an effort. The fur itself seemed to be a mixture of his own white 'bristly' rat fur. . . and soft warm mouse fur. There would be a larger pile of bedding to one side, laid flat, likely the albino's resting spot. To the right of that, appeared to be a collection. Some were metal junk, yes, but it wasn't solely a shiney objects that Lichthia had seen in Tarik's burrow. Instead a wider assortment! A few extra mouse-skin sacks. A laid out mouse pelt, perhaps not yet turned into a new bag. Some. . . rope it would appear, textured much like the rats belt. There would also be some twine and some small needles made of bone. To the back and far opposite wall, would be the rat's food storage, containing only a few nuts. And of course, just beside that, would be the rat's 'discard' pile: A small cluster of bones and nut shells.

The mouse would walk right beneath the rat, accepting the invitation. If she was going to trust him, she was going to trust him. Besides, she did know some moves she could use from ahead and below. She'd make her way down the incline, her staff a third foot that kept her steady as she descended. By now, her whiskers were twitching and her head was turning about; like most mice she loved exploring. Maybe it wasn't quite as impressive as Morathi's nest littered with bones, but the giant rat's dwelling interested her nonetheless. "Ohhhhh," she gave a statisfied squeak at the yielding grass beneath her feet. "Goodness, you keep a lot nicer den than most bachelor's I meet." Unstated that for her, most bachelors included a giant python, an eagle owl, and another rat. The smell and feel of mouse fur beneath her feet was comforting, the knowledge that the owners of said fur likely hadn't donated it willingly not bothering her at all. She'd be attracted to the discard pile, and wouldn't be disappointed, discovering some bones. Again, nowhere near as impressive as the owl's nest, but she got a morbid thrill out of that sort of thing. "S'nice. . ." she muttered exploring, finding the needles. If she got to know the giant, she might trade some tools, or some sewing patterns.

The bone pile, should she pick through it, would appear to have the remains of more than just mice. It would appear that the rat had managed to capture a sizable lizard as well. . . perhaps an explanation for the belt and rope. As she explored, Lichthia would find the light to dim slightly. The albino had covered the the nest entrance back with the large heavy stone, leaving only a small gap uncovered. He'd move himself down then, looking quite excited at having a guest, red eyes looking to glow in the darkness. The mouse's own excitement and compliments would delight him further, smiling, eyes following her. "Thank you. . . mouse." he'd reply, his tone still just as friendly as before. "Yes. . . Bylun keep nest good." He'd move himself closer, untying his belt and placing it with his other tools and possitions, as well as the empty sacks. The sacks that held food, he'd take one in each paw, and walk them over to his larder. "Mouse. . . have name?" he'd finally think to ask, maybe wanting to be more polite.

The mouse smiled wide at that. Of course she'd had him at a disadvantage initially. "Why I forgot to introduce m'self. Yes, m'name's Licthia, and it's been a pleasure meetin you, Bylun." She'd peer about the burrow. It really was a pity the good natured fellow had been exiled, he would have made some rat doe a wonderful mate, or so she thought from her perspective as a nestkeeper for a python.

"Lich. . . thia. . ." he'd repeat, giving a nod. "Nice to meet Lichthia. . ." He'd open one sack and pour out the contents over his designated 'food' section. The other bag. . . he considered to dump it as well, but instead would turn back around holding it and both paws. The rat would then take a seat on the large pile of bedding, and place the mouse-skin-bag down before him, opening it. "Lichthia. . . hungry? Wunt food?" He'd gesture a paw over for her to join him, before reaching into the back to pull out a large walnut. Holding the nut up to his large teeth, he would clamp down, the shell completely shattering with loud *crunch*. He'd pull away the center, and swallow it down.

"Don't mind if I do!" While not exactly ravenous, the mouse was a nibbler, and seldom refused an offer of food. She had to get plenty to eat after all, to remain nice and squeezable for Jaabir. As she leaned, she'd glance upwards, watching the rat smash the nut, a hint of admiration in her eye. She tried to imagine what that might do to a mouse's neck; she doubted his prey suffered long.

Taking a smaller nut, and cracking it more delicately, her mind turned to the other missing rats as she munched, particularly the ominous Aidan. It seemed to her the rat would have shared a burrow with other outcasts if he knew any. Still, if he did know other rats, it would be good to know, and even better to get the word out to them she was Tarik's friend and not to be predded. Swallowing her bite, she'd look up. "So Byrun, y'get any other visitors here?" she'd ask.

The albino would smack at his lips, pulling out a berry this time and chewing it slow. As the mouse spoke, he'd pause mid-bite and peer down. A tongue would move across his lips as he stared, though. . . the gesture was more innocent than some might take it: He was licking off the berry juice. He'd almost look to speak right away before Lichthia clarified, to announce that other mice had visited. When she specified 'rats', the albino frowned and shook his head. "No. . . Bylun look. Not find friends." He'd look off, peering toward the entrance. "Find smell. Find nest. No fumily." He'd sigh sadly, looking back "Nest too small. Find big nest." He'd gesture around him, "Make bigger."

The mouse stared up at the rat, a mystery solved. So that's why Bylun, out of so many other exiles, had survived. It was true, the other outcast burrow was just big enough for Tarik; it wouldn't have been a comfortable fit for the great rat. She smiled to herself, imagining the hulking rat stooping to get around in the other den. "This one's much better," she'd agree. "Much safer." True it was larger, but the heavy stone and the good cover made it a much better burrow in her eyes. As she walked about, she'd be careful to face the fellow respectively.

Red eyes following her as she moved, the large albino regarded the doe. This mouse is friends with Tarik, and was going lead Tarik here. He already decided not to eat her, he even told her so. . . and it would be rude to lie like that. Still, he couldn't help but to think of her as meat. And not just that. . . meat that looked really tasty! She would go well with the berries. . . and there would be enough mouse left over to last a few meals. It even had shiner fur than the last few bucks he skinned, would make a great sack. . . maybe a pillow. A bag of food. . . and (at least) a food bag: That's what he saw, and it gave him a good feeling. There was a nice fat prey in his den! It couldn't get away! How, he considered, did his fellow manage to resist the urge? Like himself, there had to be a been a reason. Bylun swallowed down a mouthful of berries and lowered his muzzle. "Why Tur-ik not eat? . . ." the rat would question with a tone of innocent curiosity. He'd pause for a moment, thinking on what was said, "How pur. . . swade?"

The mouse grinned at the great brute's question. She took the question as a compliment, plus it gave her a bit of a thrill; he was saying she was nice looking plump doe. It wasn't hard to guess he'd feel temptation at the presence of a nice easy meal in his den. Had she been privy to his thoughts, she might have thought to add she actually did make a good pillow of a sort for Jaabir. Still, his question presented her with a conundrum. She liked the fellow by now, and didn't want to lie, but she couldn't really tell him the truth either. And so paused a moment to think. Then she looked up at him, chin resting at an angle on her staff, eyes twinkling, an enigmatic smile on her face. Finally she said, "He saw me t'gether with m'love."

Bylun would stare for a moment, and blink. He almost forgot the mouse had a mate. But. . . that didn't seem like a very good reason. In-fact, it made things harder to consider. Two mice. . . together? That was an opportunity, not a deterrent. Tarik wasn't too strong, did he have trouble taking both? "Mate is. . . big?" He'd look to be in thought, wondering perhaps how wily a buck could even get. If this was a large mouse, bigger than this doe, it wouldn't be too much for him to handle. Maybe the buck was just as plump? A larger mouse, that was just as fat as this one. . . that was certainly appealing!

The mouse couldn't help but smile, finding the situation amusing, in spite of, or perhaps even partly because of the danger. She shook her head slowly. "M'love is not m'mate. . ." she explained. "M'love is not a mouse. M'love is 'mlove. I love him with all my heart, and he loves me, and either one of us wouldn't hesitate to give our life for the other." She'd sigh, pushing herself a little more erect. "I'd tell'you what m'lov was,, but y'd never b'lieve me. Tarik would never have b'lieved it if he hadn't seen it himself." She'd smile, looking up at the giant, speaking in something like a story book cadence. "When Tarik comes t'visit, he'll tell you himself. . .Or perhaps some day you'll come upon me and m'love playin' in the fields together. You do and you'll understand. You'll understand why I don't have much trouble findin' food with m'love watchin over me. And you'll understand why few preds bother me when they've seen me with m'love."

Rats of Bylun's colony used the term 'mate' and 'love' near interchangeably. So by that distinction alone, the rat was already confused. Lichthia would find his expression not unlike that of their first encounter; blank eyes and a tilted head. And her mate. . . her 'love', was not her own kind? "Not. . . mouse? . . ." he'd mumble out. What else could a mouse 'love'? He'd almost ask, before she told him that he wouldn't believe her. He believed her when she said that. But. . . maybe, he considered, he shouldn't believe that he wouldn't believe her, and instead believe he would believe in spite of her belief otherwise. . . probably? "Uh. . ." the albino was most certainly lost. When she finished, his muzzle parted to speak and held there . . before slowly shutting again. A paw would raise to scratch at his head. "Bylun. . . not understand now." His stomach would growl then, effectively ceasing his confusion long enough to grab a walnut. There would be a short pause as he cracked the shell. "Luv. . . Tur-ik friend too? . . ."

The mouse smiled. "Tarik'll explain it to you," she answered, "or you'll see for y'self, then you'll understand." And in the meantime it wouldn't be a good idea to explain it to him, lest he begin to have second thoughts about letting the mouse who now knew the location of his den return to her python. Tarik could eventually explain the situation, or the rat might even happen to stumble on herself and Jaabir and Jack on one of their outings. "And yeah, m'love is his friend," she'd add, uncertain exactly how accurate that was. Certainly Jaabir had grown to like Tarik, and Tarik had grown to understand Jaabir a little more before he'd left. And it was certainly true Tarik would never think of eating Jaabir, which she figured was the intent behind the statement.

Bylun chewed his portion of food, and nodded slow, at least. . . seeming to understand that he wouldn't understand. "O. . . k. . ." he'd reply with uncertainty. Evidently he was going to have to wait on that mystery. At least hearing the reiterated mention of Tarik talking to him. . . brought a sense of comfort. "Yes. Bylun talk. . . with Tur-ik." he'd repeat, a smile creeping up along that wide muzzle. Though he didn't know what the mouse's 'love' was, hearing that Tarik had also made friends with him, pushed away his more predatory considerations. And the doe had been pretty nice. . . giving him food and helping him see his fellow gather. It also would have been fairly impolite. "Lich-thia help. . ." he reminded himself, giving a happy nod. "Bylun not eat. . . luv."

For some reason, the mouse seemed to find that promise funny. "Thank you, I know he'll appreciate that." And she was sure he would, Jaabir had as well developed a sense of humor as a python could.

The mouse would look up and around, scanning the burrow once more. "S'good y'found this place," she said softly. "Y'should stay away from that other burrow." She'd pause a moment. "Y'aware of a grey furred cat, calls herself Tabatha, very dangerous pred?"

Bylun would smile a bit wider. It made him happy that his offer and intent were well received. It was a good feeling. Perhaps not as good as eating this plumped mouse and her 'mate', but at least it was something. "Lich-thia welcum!" he'd reply. As she continued, the rat blinked. He had never thought to go back to the small burrow, not finding a reason. However, he had ventured near to find food. "Why stay. . . away? . . ." he'd mumble curiously. . . just before the question. Those words. . . that name, they brought change to his posture: His back stiffened, and head retracted. The muzzle began to lower slow. . . and steadily lift. "Yes. . . Bylun see. . . " his words were softer than before, and just a little strained. "Before ban-ush . ." his head lowered with a frown, "got friend. . . "

The mouse would bow her head in respect of the giant's loss. On impulse, she'd gently touch his paw with her own. "M'sorry," she'd say softly. It was odd. Surely the skins that graced the giants bags had once belonged to mice who'd mourned them as well, and the giant did not feel for them. But his pain was no less real, even if it was limited to his friends. "I bring her up, because she found out about that burrow, so I'm passing the warning along." She'd raise her head. "She nearly got Tarik, but he got away." She'd lower her head. "I helped, I let him m'stay in m'own burrow, 'til he found his way home." Exactly how she'd helped him would have to remain vague of course. Indeed, she wasn't certain if braining him with her staff and carrying him off to feed her love should really count as help, however well things had turned out. But she had let him stay in her den, which given her feelings about rats at that time was not a small thing, and of course Tarik would confirm she'd helped him when they finally met. "By now Tarik's already warned y'kin, I'm just tellin anyone else I meet."

The rat's nose draped. The mouse's soft fur brush brushing against him, small paw squeezing lightly. . . he didn't expect the gesture. It brought back his smile. This seemed like a nice mouse, even if it was just meat. . . even if it wasn't a rat. "Is. . . ok."

That smile would soon fade, his head quickly raising. "Cat find nest?" It was an expression of alarm. The rat was large, and perhaps a little slow, but he knew the danger, a cat discovering a burrow. He would take a breath hearing Tarik got away from her. Bylun already knew he was alive, but somehow the assurance put him at a greater ease. He could only imagine how scared Tarik was. Not only that, but what would happen afterwards, suddenly not having a home you could return to. An ear flicked, hearing what Lichthia had done. Finding a new burrow wasn't an easy thing to do, though Bylun had managed, he acknowledged the importance of the mouse's kindness: It may of saved his friend's life. The giant rat's paw, with coarse bristly fur, closed around the mouse's. . . not harshly, but in a gentle embrace. "Helped Tur-ik. Bylun. . . thank Lichthia." He'd hold there for a moment, just looking down at her. It was suddenly becoming harder to see this mouse as meat.

Bylun wouldn't yet realize what the cat's discovery had meant, that it. . . was in no way recent, that feline had known even before he was exiled. He didn't even know about all the outcasts that came after him. Of course the burrow had been empty when he showed up, and there were signs of a recent resident. . . he just wouldn't connect it. Still keeping hold of the mouse's fore-paw, the rat would raise an eye. "Tell. . . oth-urs? . . ." He'd lower his head, leaning himself forward. The mouse had been looking for him, and was told by Tarik. She could have found others too. "Lich-thia see more fumily? . . . Bylun fumily?"

The mouse sighed. This put her in a tricky spot. On the one hand, she felt he had a right to know what happened. On the other, she wasn't sure how to explain how she knew what she knew? Should she tell him she'd talked to the cat herself? That would be hard to explain and on top of that, she didn't really want to depress him any further. No, this was Tarik's decision to make, Tarik's responsibility, she'd already gone beyond done what was necessary, warning him about the nest.. She shook her head. "You're the only one I found," she answered. "Course Tarik only left the other day." A small smile would return. "S'why I was so happy when I found you."

The rat would frown, through release her paw. It was just a little upsetting she didn't find more, but it wasn't overly expected. . . just hoped for. At least there was Tarik to look forward to. "Bylun happy too. . ." he'd reply, his smile returning. "Maybe mouse. . . find more fumily." He'd nod, thinking that to be a good thought. "Lich-thia show to Bylun. . . like Tur-ik?" His high spirits having returned, the large albino took hold of a new berry.

Ohhh, the mouse did not feel so good inside. As hard as it would be, she wanted to tell the fellow the truth. She would though, eventually, after he'd met Tarik, or after he'd gotten to know her a little better. In the meantime, she reminded herself the amiable fellow before her would have had no hesitation in turning her into dinner and a new bag, had she not been a friend of Tarik's. She could be forgiven for showing a little discretion. "Course I will, if I see 'em," she answered him. "I gotta be careful though, not all rats are as nice as you." She'd lean forward a bit. "Been keepin my eye out for a rat named Aidan. Tarik told me I had to be real careful 'round him." Indeed, the former lead hunter had been on her mind since Tarik left. Tarik had not known him well, and she expected the same of Bylun. Still, it was worth fishing for some clues, just in case.

His powerful jaws gnashed at the portion of fruit. His eyes would study as before, though there was something different about the gaze: That predatory glint felt absent. He'd give a big smile, red juice staining his lips. "Is good. . . help find." He'd then pause, considering her 'concern'. It was true of course, any of his family would at least consider eating her. . . even if she told them about Tarik: He certainly had, up to a few moments before. "Yes. . . " he'd admit softly, raising an ear as she went on. "Aid-un?" he'd blink. "Got. . . bunished? . . ." It was the same initial question he had when learning of Tarik, though. . . this was just a little more surprising. "Lost. . . fight? . . ." The most common reason for a rat being exiled, was to lose a fight of dominance. . . to one of the primary colony leader. Aidan never seemed interested in the title. . . and Bylun couldn't imagine him losing otherwise. He'd look dumbfounded, but would finally blink and give a firm nod. "Aid-un hunt good. Fast. Get mouses. Burds. . . Rab-uts." He had once seen Aidan's hunting party, when gathering for the colony: Aidan Jumped on a large bird and broke a wing before the others even came close. . . then snapped the neck. It was awfully impressive. The albino regarded the doe. She. . . might not even have time to speak. "Mouse should run. . . tell Bylun."

As the large rat began to reply, the mouse was thinking to herself, planning out how she could eventually tell him the truth. Her reverie was broken as the large rat spoke of the hunter, and a tingle ran down her spine. He hunted rabbits, as Tarik had said. Ohhh, part of her really wanted to meet this rat! But only a part of her, she'd remind herself, a little taken aback seeing how the monster rat was looking down at her now. Was he concerned about her? Oh how sweet! She nodded at his instruction. "Don't worry, I will if I can," she told him. "I only talked to you, cause Tarik told me you're nice, but if I should see Aidan, I'll just hide and tell you or Tarik, or both." She'd smile, and shrug her shoulder. "M'pretty good at lookin after m'self. Survived a long while on m'own. . .. " She'd smile up at the ogre-rat. "And m'love looks after me."

The assurances seemed to put Bylun at ease. He wanted Lichthia to lead others to his burrow, but didn't want her killed. In a way it was for his own benefit, just as not eating her himself. If something happened to this mouse, then he might not get to see Tarik or any others. But strangely, that's not what brought his worry and wasn't even considered. He just. . . didn't want her hurt. He'd lean in, an ear flicking. "Said nice?" That was kind of him, the rat considered. He'd smile, then nod. As she finished he'd begin to rise to his feet, slowly. He'd lurch forward before the mouse and lean a paw down on the mouse. . . skinned bag. He'd raise his head, as he'd begin to lift, staring. "Tur-ik had stay. . . with Lich-thia. . . and luv?" He'd glance down at the food, wondering if he was being rude at storing it away without asking. "Mouse dun. Not hung. . rey?"

The mouse nodded at the question, though it wasn't entirely true. Tarik had spent one night with her and the python, albeit not by his choice! "Nah I'm fine. . .." she'd assure him. "Got plenty of food at home with m'love." She'd smile. "And that's really where I should be." It seemed her foray to check on her old burrow wouldn't happen today after all, though it was worth it to find the outcast rat. "I should be goin back b'fore it gets too late. But I'm really happy I found you, Bylun." ' Hearing she was full, Bylun began to lift the sack and carry it over. Still smiling, he'd lumber forward, large bare tail swishing behind him. Stopping at the food pile, his paws would raise the fuzzy spotted bag and begin pouring out its contents. The large imposing albino, would nod his head to her to show he was still listening: He wasn't one to be impolite. He'd begin to move back with the empty sack. . . before stopping in place, and baring a small frown. "Lich-thia. . . go?" The idea of the mouse leaving his den, was a little upsetting. From a predatory prospective, food walking right out your exit was not at all comforting: It felt nicer for them to stay. It wasn't that, however, that made him sad. In being without much interaction for the last several months, he'd grown lonely! There would be a noticeable sigh. The wide muzzle, lowering. "Bylun happy too. . ." he'd mutter, betraying his expression. He'd look to her for a moment, seemingly conflicted. Finally the rat would raise his head, and peer over to the stone which blocked the entrance. "Mouse. . . vis-ut Bylun?" he'd question, head turning back to her. Even before she answered, he'd already began trudging forward toward the stone, not looking to have made a threat.

The mouse smiled up at the giant, surprised at his reaction to her leaving. A moment's consideration, and she realized there was no cause for surprise. He was outcast and alone, with no one to talk to. She still remembered what that was like. So, it wasn't at all surprising he'd enjoy the company, even of a friendly mouse. "Course I'll visit!" she'd answer emphatically, following him towards the stone. "Y'm'friend now, I always visit m'friends." Indeed, she seemed to do little else. She'd add him to the list. True, he wasn't fuzzy like Jack, he didn't love her like Jaabir, he wasn't wise like Morathi, and she wasn't close to him like Tarik, Tarik the rat who'd surprised her by in some ways understanding her better than anyone else after only a few days. But she liked Bylun, he made her smile, which reminded her of a certain sparrow. "I'll be sure t'come by," she'd assure him.

The enthused squeak of acceptance, would remedy Bylun's depression. "O. k!" he'd reply excitedly, walking up the nest's incline and toward the stone with little hesitation. As his paws came against the 'door', he'd flick an ear. "Bylun friend? . . ." Those deep red eyes would stare then, and not unkindly. A mouse, as a friend? It was strange when he heard she was friends with a fellow colony member. . . but not now. "Yes." he'd nod with a smile, pushing away at the boulder. Light would fill the albino's lair, and he'd step aside. The opening would be a bit larger than mouse-sized. He'd turn to her, his expression one of kindness "Lich-thia. . . Bylun friend. Like Tur-ik."

Well damn. From potential meal and utility bag to friend in just one afternoon! It was time well spent. "S'good meetin y'Bylun. I'll be by again soon." She'd bow her head politely, and make her exit out the door.