A Halfing's New Life


Tavern of the Jade Moon
This tavern somehow manages to have a seedy look to it while looking very appealing. Perhaps it's the sulky furs mixed with happy waitresses. Perhaps it's the haze of smoke that is offset by the shiny wood of the floor and tables. Whatever it is, this room seems to have a sort of feel good energy to it, dispite whoever is there to try and stop it. Booths line both walls with a bar at the far end and tables spread out in-between. At one end of the bar is a set of stairs, at the other is a door which must lead into the kitchen since all the waitress seem to go in there empty handed and come out with food.
Obvious Exits:
[L]eave [T]avern [D]oor to [B]ack [Up]stairs

Durras sits at a table, his elbow resting on its top as he slowly walks a silver coin over his fingers, turning it from finger to finger and then back again. At the moment the room seems empty, except for the shadows... and for some reason tonight he finds no comfort in them.

Jade enters quite literally from the surrounding woodwork with little more then a soft chirping from her little blue friend. With only a single glance about the tavern, the elf lass makes her way over to the bar and recieves her normal drink without asking.

Durras looks up at the half-elf sitting at the bar, puzzled again at the odd ruby red wine she seemed so fond of. He glances down at his paw and, with a small twitch, causes the coin to vanish as he stands and begins to walk over towards her. "Should I ask if you would mind company?"

Jade tilts her head slightly as she looks at Durras out of the corner of her eye then smile and shrugs a little, "I don't mind at all, though I could ask the same of you, youngling." Her familiar, when he finally turns his gem-like gaze to him, chirps a soft greeting.

Durras chuckles, smiling. "Youngling? In a way, I suppose. Though I dare say I'm as grown as I'm likely to become." He winks and bows slightly to the firelizard. "And greetings to you as well, blue-flyer." He glances over to the goblet with obvious curiosity. "I don't supposed the barkeep would have another bottle of that? It looks.... different."

Jade chuckles softly, "Its just a term." then looks at her glass, takes a sip then looks at the fox mix again and says, "This is for those with highly... specialized... tastes. I wouldn't really suggest it to anyone." After a moment, she gently moves Pippin from her shoulder to the bartop then calls the 'tender over, "Bring my little friend here some fresh scraps and water." All the while, she's gently rubbing the tips of her fingers over what looks to be a very recent scar at the base of the dragonette's wing.

Durras frowns as he looks down at the still very white mark. "What happened to him? Another half-inch and he could have lost his wing." Then reached out, hesitating to touch the dragon as he knew their nature. "It must have been painful for him."

Jade hmm?s as she glances at the scar then nods slowly, "He had a run in with a bronze male while we were down south for a while. Little did I know, there was a gold ready to fly at the time while I was there." Then, with a smile, she says, "He'll be fine in a couple more days. A local animal healer took care of his injury before it became infected." The dragon bobs his head and whistles his agreement, sounding oddly ashamed for being injured for such an instinctual reason.

Durras shakes his head, then reaches out to touch one finger to the top of the fire-lizard's head in respect. "It is only what must be, little one. You did what you had to, and no doubt left that arrogant bronze with more scars of his own."

Pippin noses at the finger for a moment then ducks his head beneath his wing, churring softly. Jade only shakes her head a bit in amusement then gives her familiar a loving pat, "Bronzes are bigger than blues. He's lucky to have gotten out with just a bad injury. It's been a very long time since he last took flight for a female anyway."

Durras nods.. "Bigger is not always better, a smarter, faster figher can always beat a stronger one. Perhaps the blueone just needs more time around his own kind, it helps when you wish to attract, and earn, the attentions of the female of your choice."

Jade mms, "But they are stronger and built to catch the golds. It doesn't matter, he's not as young as he used to be. Its best that he doesn't try to catch anymore greens or golds." The look the pair shares show they are both of the same mind on the comment, and they don't need anyone else besides each other for company anyway.

Durras nods, slowly with a small smile. "If he has a companion then perhaps he doesn't need the company of other firelizards.. Finding a companion is... rare, and to be treasured when it happens." He smiles again. "And you can protect each other, so that both gain from your friendship."

Jade nods and chuckles softly, "An aquaintance of mine says the same thing. He, and a few others know to watch this little guy to judge my moods acurately." The little dragon snorts, letting a tiny puff of smoke out from his nostils though his eyes glitter with good humor.

Durras laughs softly as he pulls his fingers back from the warm smoke for an instant. "Then at the moment I'd have to say you're more than a bit amuzed and perhaps a touch curious." He winks at the other folca, still puzzled by the strange and conflicting signals he feels coming from you.

Jade mmms then nods and smirks a little, "Perhaps. I'm always a little curious about one thing or another." While watching the fox, she lifts her glass, sniffing at it delicately while taking a long sip and idly petting her familiar. In return, the dragon rumbles happily and stretches out his neck to sniff at the paw hand and give him a curious little glance.

Durras smiles again, letting his finger slowly scratch down the side of the dragon's neck and chin. "I've found curiosity to be a good thing, for the most part. It often leads to new discoveries, and new friends. And on those rare times it doesn't at least you know you've gotten to learn something new and important."

Jade chuckles softly as the glass is held delicately in her hand, "Sometimes, that same curiosity can lead one into inexcapable trouble." As the dark liquid is swirled in the glass, she looks over at Durras and smiles sweetly. "Tell me, have you thought of meeting other folca since our last meeting?"

Durras nods, looking back into her eyes with an earnest expression. "Yes, and I would like to... to find others like me, like us. All my life I've lived among.. normals, those who could never think of 'elf' and not want to spit." He chuckles slightly. "And sometimes even trouble is preferred over loneliness."

Jade nods slowly, "I know how it feels to live among the pure bloods and fight by their sides, and be tortured by their ridicule and ideals. Only two have ever earned my respect and admiration, but even they had to prove themselves to a much younger lass." Slowly, her eyes move to rest on her drink, then she drinks it down quickly. Just as she's about to get up, the order for her familiar is brought to her, so she settles once more, letting the dragon eat first and says, "I can take you to a folca village."

Durras looks back at her and smiles, clearly pleased. "I would appreciate that, and would owe you a favor for it if you.. happen to think of a way for me to repay it. I know you think of me as rather young and... hopeless, but perhaps one day I can prove myself otherwise for you."

Jade bursts out laughing at his last comment then grins, "Compared to quite a few, I'm very old. I don't look like I should be close to 600, but then, I'm more elf than fae, sadly enough." She suddenly calms then says, "There would be nothing to repay. You are a folca and should be around those who would give you the respect and admiration you deserve, regardless of your parentage."

Durras shakes his head. "Respect and admiration must be earned. acceptance must be given. The only thing that any may demand is the chance to earn both. That is all I ask. I thought I had earned that in my home at ChunnsCove. It seems not. I must depend on you to grant me that... second chance." He smiles, winking at her. "And you're not old at all.. in fact you're quite lov..." He shuts him muzzle, knowing he's going too far.

Jade chuckles softly, "Flattery, my young friend, will get you everywhere." then, with a smile, she pets Pippin, stroking her fingers over the scar as she comments, "Among the folca, you are given the same respect as any guest to their lands. More so becaue you'll be arriving by my side. For very very few are ever shown to the village by me."

Durras blushes a bit, chuckling softly. "Flattery is saying things to make one feel more important, honest praise is only that which is due." He nods, giving a small smile. "I will still owe you, my friendship if you will accept nothing else. I... I may not know how to act, among my own kind. Will they.. will they understand?"

Jade smiles, "They understand that everyone is different. You will be accepted so long as you give them the same respect. Don't be afraid of messing up, they aren't very traditional when it comes to visitors."

Durras chuckles... "Messing up, me? Whatever makes you think I would do that? Or at least.. again."

Jade smirks, "Just remember, I'm not the typical folca. For one, I'm part fae, not part fur. The rest, you don't need to know about." With Pippin now finished, he's a fast eater and drinker, she stands and gently places the little blue dragon on her shoulder and pets him.

Durras puzzles slightly, the confusion obvious on his face. "Folca is folca, half elf, half whatever our masters chose to... choose. In my case, a dark elf... which has made the reaction of others even more... dramatic. It's not as if I had a choice, but it seems that it's something I can't escape either." Then he stiffens, looking back to her. "And I shoudln't, I am who and what I am.. I am NOT my sire! I am myself, and I reject all that my sire represents."

Jade quirks a brow at his reaction then nods, "In the region I lived my first century, the fae and the elves lived peacefully side by side. Intereaction was bound to happen, if in secret among them. I'm but one of the very few that showed some sort of physical attribute of the non-elf heritage. To be accepted by others, we must accept what we are first. Be mindful of that thought, for the elders of the village will know if you don't by reading your actions."

Durras closes his eyes, sighing softly. "Then... you were wanted, desired, as the offspring of love and affection. Not created to be a tool or weapon. I envy you, Jade. I did not know what love was until... until I was expelled.. and.. " He laughs. "And trapped by an old man, who chose me to take the place of a son that died as a child." A tear seems to form in his eye, one he tries not to let be seen.

Jade shakes her head, "I was the product of love and affection, but when my fae blood started to show in force, I was no longer wanted, and my own disability at the time didn't make things any better. I was looked upon as too different to dwell among them, so I left before I was even ready to survive on my own." She looks towards the section of wall she emerged from minutes earlier as she continues, "It took a wandering tribe of wild elves to find and help a starving young girl, just barely able to find edible plants in the forest. The only one to truely take me in and show what affection really was turned into my music teacher."

Durras's eyes close sadly. "Then you too were...cast out? Forgive me, Jade. I misjudged you, again. But... your disabilty? I don't understand."

Jade mmms, "Cast out? More driven out. By the full bloods and my own siblings." Her eyes once again fall upon the foxelf then smiles, "That is a part of the past now." At the gentle chirp from her familiar, she chuckles and offers her hand, "If you wish to meet these folca, then grasp my hand. I'll take you there through one of my personal shortcuts."

Durras nods, reaching out to accept her hand... somewhat surprised at it's coolness. "What full blood has ever accepted it's half-blood kin? It seems to be a common failing, for both light and dark elves.

Jade's hand isn't that cool, but then, she was holding a cold glass too. With a soft chuckle, she nods and leads him towards the wall, "My parents, surprisingly enough didn't want me to leave, but, they supported the full bloods because they looked like them. Their fae blood couldn't be seen, or sensed." As she approches the wall, she raises her free hand, and touches the wood with the tips of her fingers. Where she touches, the wall shimmers and lets her fingers sink into it with ease.

Durras watches in amazement... feeling a sudden kinship in Jade as her relation to wood mirrors his own with the shadows of the world. "They wanted you to stay, yet supported those who would.. and did.. exile you?"

Jade mmms, "I left on my own. I couldn't stand to be around anyone who wouldn't accept me, or what I represented." Her grasp on his hand tightens as she steps into the wood, drawing the fox along with her into the darkness beyond.

Durras nods... feeling his body meld into the wall.. the sensation totally different from his oneness with the shadows.... "Jade... what.. how are you doing this?

You open a portal and step through to the darkness beyond.

Cheno-Obier - Prolgu Forest

The forest seems to press close the deeper you get into it along the winding game trails. Thick old trees fight for available space and light. The ground cover is sparse with only shade loving plants alive since very little, if any light reaches the ground. In this area, the feeling of being watched is constant and here and there among the hidden branches, the sounds of someone, or something moving can be heard clearly. Off in the distance, the sound of trickling water can be made out amid the rustle of leaves and the dry snap of twigs. The trail itself ends in a small clearing where a very large and old tree dominates the view.
Easily as big as four averaged sized oaks, this tree could be the grandfather of them all and is very much alive and filled with life. Its canopy stretches high above the earth, reaching towards the sky as if trying to pluck the clouds from the great blue expanse. Few birds nest in this tree, but evidence of something living among the branches can be made out, as well as other signs of inhabitants around the clearing, but cleverly remain out of sight.

Obvious Exits:
Game Trail [GT]

Jade chuckles softly as the darkness litterally molds around the body, "Its just something I can do. I had to be taught by my fae cousins though, it didn't come naturally." Within a few short breaths, the darkness parts and a clearing becomes visible through another portal. In the center, a very large ancient tree stands with all sorts of folca wandering, climbing, and living in its branches and around the base.

Durras shivers a bit as the sensation of having solid objects move thru him tickles and ripples his mind. "You.. learned this? Then could any learn to do.. this? I was told... my gift was inborn... that none could learn it and that I owed it to my... sire." He almost spat the word.

Jade grins, "Only another dryad could learn it. Its part of their innate magics." She draws him close as she steps through the portal and takes a quick look around. The first to notice her is a red furred lass that looks a lot like her but with feline features amid the obvious fae markings. To make sure he doesn't get caught in the quickly closing portal, Jade jerks him even closer then lets go of his hand.

Durras stumbles a bit as he's pulled thru the portal, bumping into Jade's side in the process. "I... was that.. one of us?"

Jade giggles, "Yes, she is." then takes him into the clearing itself to meet the approaching young woman.

Durras can't help but brush the dust from his clothing.. suddenly embarassed at how he must look.. he's never met another folca before, other than Jade and her only a pawful of days ago. "I... are you sure about this? I mean... She.. I..."

Jade chuckles softly, "Relax and enjoy the evning while its still young, my friend." Behind the approaching young woman, a little boy follows, looking cute with his patchwork fur of brown, red and white and a long feline tail swishing this way and that. Even the woman has a feline tail, swaying only lightly with her steps. Her voice, a soft purr comes to him with her greeting, "Evening mother. I see you've brought a visitor." then looks to the fox and smiles brightly, showing off very cat-like teeth, "Welcome stranger. I'm Tia."

Durras blushes, though it's hard to tell under his coal black fur and skin. "I.. I'm named Durras, Durras ShadowWalker. You're right, this is my first time to visit your home... to meet...." He seems to lose the ability to speak for a moment, then looks over to the youth. "Your son, perhaps?"

Tia giggles as she looks back at the little boy, "My nephew." then turns back to Durras and offers her long fingered hands to him, "Well met, Durras. Please, come and join us by the fire." She gives Jade a quick glance then a warm smile as the older woman nods to her and moves to follow though she seems to have flinched a bit with the offer.

Durras reaches out to accept the offered hand, his lightly furred paw cupping around it hesitantly. With a small nod he accepts. "I would be honored, and.. thank you." He turns and looks at Jade in surprise, his expression obviously shouting 'she didn't laugh.. she didn't reject me'

Others finally begin to take notice of the new arrivals and come to see while Tia leads Durras over to a huge bonfire pit where the fire is burning brightly. Flickering light dances against the ancient tree while smaller lights shine within each bower hidden among the branches and in the trunk. Jade follows behind, giving a respectful nod to those coming to see while she pets her familiar.

Durras smiles... both embarassed and strangely hopeful for the first time in months.. He stands still for a moment, basking in the warmth of the fire and soaking it in. Then, after only that brief moment, he turns and reaches his paw out to Jade. "Please... you brought me here, I'd be honored if you'd stay. Perhaps they have something for Pip to nibble on?"

Durras looks around the clearing.. feeling a strange kinship for the ancient trees and quiet glade.

Jade stays well away from the fire as she watches it dance about as if it were alive. The invitation to come closer is politely declined with a smile, "No, enjoy yourself while you're here. I have to go and check on Tamara while she's still awake." She gives Durras a playful wink while Tia introduces a few others and places the boy in her lap to snuggle. Then, without another glance, Jade is climbing up the tree and into one of the main trunk bowers.

Durras watches Jade climb the tree with all the ease of a skilled secondstory thief entering some rich merchant's home. He shakes his head, a bit disappointed, but turns and smiles to Tia. "Have you.. have you always lived here? I, I'm afraid I don't know a great deal of.. what is considered proper here. You're only the second folca I've ever met." He smiles down at the snuggling child in Tia's lap. "Well.. second and third, I guess."

Tia giggles and nods, "I was born and raised here." She too looks up where Jade went then grins, "Me, and both my sisters were born up in that bower she went into. Even this little guy, Innias." She gives the little boy a hug and giggles softly, "Just be yourself around us. Some, like mother, grew up among elves or furries so we don't expect anyone to have a set pattern of behaviour. We're quite open believe it or not."

Durras closes his eyes and seems to relax, slumping slightly as his paw reaches down to grip the earth below him. "To be welcomed... accepted. To know there are truely others like myself." He smiles as he looks again at Innias. "To know that there are families, who love their children and want them for.... " He shakes his head. "I'm afraid my own background is somewhat... different. Do you... are there spawn of the drow here as well? Are they as welcomed as the children of the light elves?"

Tia hmms for a moment in thought then shrugs, "Drow folca are hard to find since drows tend to be more secretive and not as welcomed on the surface by just about any race. Not everyone here shows all of their elf heritage, either. My sister, Tala, she looks more feline than I or Tamara do. And Tamara looks more like mother. You can say I'm an even mix of our parents." She then points over to what looks like a curious mix of skunk and fox, but qute elderly in age, "Take Gerant there. His skin, what shows, is dark, but we're not sure if he has drow in him or not. But, he's the darkest of us all, skin wise."

Durras glances over at the thickly furred old figure. The black of his fur was peppered with grey and seemed thin in spots but there was no mistaking the slight curve of his pointed ears or their coal-black interior. "They.. we... those that they create tend not to be proud of their backgrounds. It's difficult to be arrogant over something that causes you to be hated or feared. I.. I don't feel that here, though I don't see a lot of fox types either. I don't suppose you would have an opening for a thi... someone handy at being quiet and unseen?"

Tia smiles as she catches the thought, "A thief?" then leans in close and whispers, "We don't mind, so long as this tree remains neutral ground." She then leans back and speaks normally, "For several years in our recent history, we've had to bend towards thieving ways just to get the things we need from the nearby town. The new baroness there has since changed those old ways when she took over. If you stay with us, you will find we are simple quiet folk and support the local government."

Durras nods... feeling oddly embarassed that he should be ashamed of what had been his only way of life. He looks back to Tia with a hesitant smile. "No thieves guild here then? I... I'm afraid I know no other trade though, and my talents would be hard pressed to find use in anything else. I was born a freak, raised a thief and spy, now I no longer know what I am... save for the first time since my birth.. happy."

Tia thinks for a moment then shakes her head, "No thieves guild as far as I know, though any one of us could pass for one with our natural skills. I'm sure we could find something you're good at, even if its just hunting, or helping to protect our lands and the tree." The young woman looks into his eyes, sharing the same intense gaze as Jade, but tempered with the good life she's had so far. Eyes a darker shade of green peer into the fox's as a soft smile spreads across her muzzle.

Durras feels strange.. an odd thrill running thru his form as he looks back into the intense gaze. For a moment he can only move his mouth silently, no words coming out other than a soft 'squeek'. "I... I've never shed blood, Tia. Not the blood of other's anyway. I watched my master kill for pleasure too many times, I don't know that I could kill now, even to save my own life. But if you wish it, I will stand next to you and try."

Tia blinks a little as she tears her eyes away, finding sudden interest in her nephew's headfur for the moment while she nods, "I haven't killed anyone, nor has many of this small village. Those that have did it only to protect the rest of us from dangerous invaders." For all her years, she's still a shy young woman. Slowly, her eyes return to his, seeing if the same thrill appears within her own, as well the fox' eyes under the watchful gazes of the rest of the community.

Durras's expression seems to flit from surprise to shock to wonder several times, then his face stills as the dark eyes stare back into hers and seem to glow softly... though how anything so black could be thought of 'glowing' would defy description, yet glow they do.. warmly. He gazes back into Tia's eyes and slowly raises his paw to gently cup her cheek. "Tia.. I.... What's happening?" he speaks softly.. a small tinge of fear in his voice as he feels himself pulled into the other's eyes... being consumed in a most unusual and wonderful way.

The immediate area seems to fall silent and time stands still for that single instant when Tia's eyes meet his again. Only the sound of the bonfire crackling can be heard by this young folca woman. She can't tear her eyes away a second time, instead she looks deeper. Though there is no mental contact, she can feel his heart fluttering as a single name forms within his mind. A name that seems fitting for her: Lena. When he touches her cheek, she barely moves, caught up in the soft glow of Durras' eyes, her own twinkling like the stars above.

Durras's voice falls silent as his paw cups over her cheek.. his black fur seeming to shiver as a near electric shock sweeps down his arm and into his body. The paw doesn't release Tia though, and instead begins to slowly comb her thick cheekfur while never lifting from it's touch against her. His head slowly tilts slightly as he kneels before feline-like woman, the furry tail he'd once tried to hide in the other cities slowly sweeping from side to side behind him. Slowly his lips form a single word.. one he doesn't understand yet suddenly feels so right as he whispers it. "Lena....." His heart began to suddenly pound loudly.. blending in with her own until they began to beat in unison. He swallows slightly... unable to find other words or describe the impossible feeling sweeping thru him... yet suddenly not caring..

Tia's ears lay back for a moment when he whispers her heart's own name then they perk back up, focused solely on the fox. Indeed, much of the village's attention is now focused on the pair, some whispering to each other, and all with knowing smiles. For the time being, the kit in her lap is forgotten, then, slowly, she leans forward, her eyes never leaving Durras'. She knows what has just happened, and has accepted it completely.

Durras still has no clue what's happening.. knowing only that he's never felt this way before in his life.. as though his spirit had suddenly exploded into a great glowing sphere of wonder as it began to slowly be drawn into Tia's eyes.. feeling himself suddenly consumed by her eyes and delighting in the feeling. The black folca felt his body torn between sudden surges of cold and warmth and he felt his paw slowly pulling Tia's muzzle towards his. Everything else seems to vanish... the glow of the fire growing dim and it's loud happy crackling silent. There were others nearby.. yet they have vanished from sight, sound, and scent... only the slight feline-folca before him seems to exist as he feels his heart swell and almost burst within his chest.... "Lena?" He whispers.. his muzzle almost brushing against hers as his pulse beats loudly in his ears.

Tia blinks once, twice, then lets a smile tug at the corners of her faint muzzle as she rests one hand on his shoulder, and the other reaches to stroke back his headfur, as her lips touch his. The feeling is almost electric to her, making the short furs rise on her arms. During the moment, the rest of the folca go about their business, but cast quick glances towards the pair. Only one voice rises above faint din, calling the little boy away before he got too much in the way. While her lips are pressed against his, everything except the fox-folca's presense vanishes, forgotten until she leans back slightly and gives him a coy smile with a whisper soft purr, "Yes?"

Durras whispers.. "What.. what's happening to me.. to us?" He doesn't even realize that the others have moved on... or that they were ever there, for that matter. The swift departure of the child almost unnoticed.. until he planted a hindpaw right into the black folca's... lap as he jumped away to join his mother." Yet other than a slight wince there was no response from Durras as he smiles softly, almost purring as the paw combs over his headfur... the sweet taste of her lips screaming at him to beg for more. "I.. I don't understand.. but you... you're so perfect...."

Tia gently presses a finger against Durras' lips, silencing him while she kisses the tip of his nose then his forhead before answering. Her soft purring voice a whisper so only he can hear her, "The most wonderful thing to ever happen to anyone, Durras...." She pauses to give his cheek a nuzzle and move closer, then purrs ever so softly into his ear, "Its Recognition." Just saying the simple word sends a electrified shiver down her spine, making her tail swish across the grass and the fur rise along her arms in a wave.

Durras's eyes widen in near shock... 'Recognition?' He'd heard the word whispered among others.. then heard harsh and rude laughter as those same others had mocked it as nothing more than the ruttings of halfbreeds... with quick glances towards him. "I... I've never felt this before. It.. it's real? It.. it must be." He whispers.. feeling his fur fluff under the lose jerkin and trousers.. and knew his tail had to have filled out to a near brush behind him. "It... it's wonderful. You're... wonderful." He sighs, raising himself slightly onto his knees to close his paws around Tia as he presses his black muzzle against her's. "Then.. we're... destined?" There was more than just curiosity in his voice.. there was wonder... and hope.

Tia answers only with a soft yes before she leans into the kiss. Her heart pounds loudly against her ribs. She's wanted nothing more since she saw her little sister meet her own recognized. Slender arms encircle Durras' neck and chest as she moves closer then cradles the back of his head in her small hand. Nothing else matters to her in this single moment.

Durras slowly seems to melt into Tia's grasp, his paws closing around her sides and back as he holds her tightly... feeling her heart beat in time with his own as her softness presses against him. "I will never understand it... Le.. Tia... But I don't think I will ever be happier than I am right now. I... I feel as though I were complete, for the first time in my life." His short muzzle presses against feline-elf's soft neckfur.. his soul almost glowing with delight and joy. "I.. I don't understand it.. but I don't need to, do I? Will you.. can you accept me? I have no home, no family... I am no more than what you see.. but what I am, is your's.. if you will have me."

While Tia holds him close, she casts a quick glance up at her older sister's bower. Satisfied, she smiles and rubs her cheek against yours, purring softly, "Always Durras. Always."

Durras shakes his head slowly.. afraid to believe that this was actually happening.. that someone.. anyone.. but most especially this one... would.. could... might actually want to share her life with him. They had only just met.. spoken little more than a dozen words to each other.. yet... it WAS right!!! It WAS.. destined. He could feel it in his heart.. defying with insane hope and wonder every one of his fears and doubts... "Then for so long as you want me.. I am yours. Thru this life and the one beyond. My heart.. my destined. I..." He follows Tia's glance towards the dark opening of the bower... almost afraid to believe what that glance meant... though the thrill that ran thru his body was reinforced by the 'recognition' that still echos within him.

Tia says nothing more, just allowing the moment take its own pace. Within moments, she's claimed the fox' lap for her own, pressing her trim body against his while nuzzling at his neck and stroking her fingers through his headfur. From someplace just behind the black furred folca, a gentle, humor filled voice comes, "Destined... to father a child through her." Startled, the young woman looks up to see Jade standing there with her arms crossed and laughter twinkling in her emerald eyes.

Durras curls his paws around her slender waist and helps her move up onto his lap, slowly easing back onto his rump and spreading his slightly digigrade knees to give the cat-girl a hollow to settle into. His paws begin to slowly move up and down her back.. teasing the fur under her soft blouse and sending thrills thru her as he pulls her tightly against him. Then, almost in shock he turns with a jerk to stare at Jade with wide, startled eyes.. her sudden reappearance and the laughter in her voice throwing a chill as though of cold water over him. "To father...? " Before she can reply he looks back into Tia's face... the shock melting away as she again fills his eyes and heart.

Jade chuckles and nods while she keeps an eye on Durras, being the protective mother type for now, "That's the prime function of Recognition, to bring a new life into the world. I'm sure you'll do fine as a father." All Tia has to say when she looks over his shoulder is, "Mother... please..." then turns to meet his gaze, quivering slightly in his arms and resting her cheek on the fox's shoulder.

Durras shakes his head again.. sighing as he feels Tia's muzzle against his shoulder and neck, her warm breath working thru the thin cloth of his shirt to tease at the fur underneath. "Jade.. you don't have to be so...." Then he seems to freeze for an instant. "Mother?"

Jade grins and nods, "She's my second daughter. Quite a beauty, isn't she?" She's proud of Tia, but can't help teasing some. Better than what could happen. As she reaches down to gently stroke her daughter's headfur, Pippin stretches out, giving the fox a curious little look then flitting off into the forest. The older elf watches as her familiar leaves then nods once and says as she turns to depart, "We'll talk later, young man." There's something on the edge of her voice that doesn't bode well. Tia looks up when her headfur is touched then smiles at her mother and watches as she leaves.

Durras can't help but smile and nod in agreement. "She is.. more lovely than anyone, anything I've ever seen before. It's as though...." Then his ears flit back at Jade's parting comment... He curls his paws around Tia protectivly.. then looks back into her soft eyes.. the worry vanishing from his mind as mist fades with the rising sun. "She's right... you are lovely.. and worth anything she might say or do to me... tomorrow." He smiles softly.. "If she's leaving us alone.. then maybe that means she'll let me keep my fur tomorrow.. if I survive the night." He winks at Tia just a bit, the blush obvious in his voice if not in the blackness of his ears and cheeks.

Tia giggles, if a bit nervously at Jade's comment after the elf leaves then looks to Durras and smiles, "There's nothing she can do about Recognition. Its the strongest natural force I know of." She sits up a bit in his lap and strokes her fingers just beneath his chin while asking, "Why do you say that?"

Durras smiles back at her, his eyes closing in delight as her fingers stroke and tease his chin. "Which... that maybe Jade approves, and will leave me with a little fur still around me, or if I'm going to survive the night? He slowly began to stand, drawing his hindlegs under both himself and his intended and.. with a bit of an effort.. stands, holding her aginast him. He glances back to the dark opening of the bower nearby, the one she had looked at a moment ago. "You don't know much about me, dear one.. dear Lena. If we're to be lifemates, perhaps we should... know each other better?"

Tia mmms and nods then tilts her head curiously and asks, "Jade? Who's Jade?" She honestly has no idea he's refering to her mother of all people, even though she was just there. As he stand, she clings tight until he's steady and looking towards the bower then whispers into your ear, "That's my older sister's bower. Mine is... higher up." then motions towards the smaller branches way up in the tree.

Durras looks up into the tall branches, to a spot of darkness higher in the tall tree. "I... I'm not that great a climber, Tia... Or is there a secret way up there?" One of his paws slips down her back, gently cupping around her bottom to hold her in place against him... wondering.. without really caring... if any might be watching them... There was only one person in his heart and mind.. the sweet folca he held tightly against himself.

Tia grins, "Live around here, you learn to climb real fast." She gives his cheek a kiss then wriggles free and scampers over to the tree. With a giggle, she looks back and starts climbing up the rough trunk, using her claws to grab at the wood until she gets to the sturdy branches that go almost like a ladder to her bower. The way up is shown, but she still has to jump the short distance from the closest branch to her little den. Once inside, she leans out, waving to her fox so he can come up and join her.

Durras looks up at Tia's smiling face and hopeful... eager.. wave. He looks back at the huge tree and steps up to it, trying to dig his smaller claws into its bark. With a leap he makes it half way up the trunk before starting to slip.. sliding down to the ground with a growl... "Tia... love, I don't know if this is going to work.. I...." He looks up at her... smiling just a bit. "Love... close your eyes for a moment, please?"

Tia leans back into her bower some and rests her arms on the opening ledge, giggling as he tries to climb the great ancient tree. She looks towards the others when they pause in their work and conversations to look at him then she giggles even more. With a mischievous smile, she closes her eyes, waiting to see what he'll do.

Durras glances back to the others with a 'well?' look in his eyes. After a moment they all get the message and turn away, though he can hear their soft laughter as they nudge each other and gesture back towards the frustrated folca. With a quick glance upwards to be sure Tia's eyes are closed he steps to the side and behind the huge tree's trunk, into the black shadow cast by the still flickering fire. In an instant he vanishes.. plunging into the shadow world and darting up the tiny bits of darkness within the thick bark.. peering out from moment to moment until he reaches the branch that his destined was laying on. As quiet as a cloud as it crosses the moon's sphere he slips free from the shadows and materalizes behind Tia.. laying just behind her and remaining silent until he reachs out to tickle the bottom of her footpad. "Miss me?" he asks softly.

Tia flicks an ear towards her fox, her eyes remaining closed, when he speaks and touch her foot. One eye opens as she looks back, then a grin forms followed soon by her bubbly laughter, "You moved through the tree, almost like mother does." Her home is small, but comfortably sits at least five normal sized elves easily. Nestled against the back is a pile of furs and cushions, her bed it seems, and the front area of the bower is clear with neatly stacked baskets holding her worldly possessions up against the walls.

Durras shakes his head slightly, not sure if he were disapointed at not surprising her yet feeling oddly reassured that he'd not. "No, love.. I can't move thru... thru trees. But there are other gifts.. other ways of.. moving. I could never have done what your.. what Jade did to bring us here." He sits up, standing somewhat uneasily as he tries not to look down past the wide branch.. or think of the distance between it and the all too hard ground below. He follows her into the bower, ducking his head as it brushes against the hard wood that ringed the opening. "It's.. it's very you, I can feel you here..." He looks over at the pile of pillows and soft furs... "I've never tried to live inside a tree.. though if my.. father.. hadn't found me when he did I might have spent my life in a cave.

Tia hehs softly, "Mother doesn't have a name for what she does, only that it was taught to her by the wood fae while she was away for all those years." She settles herself onto a pillow, offering one to him as well beside her, "This tree is very much alive. Its very ancient. So old, it remembers the first folca coming to make their homes at its base." While she waits for him to sit, she asks, "Why do you call mother, Jade?"

Durras nods... "It's like how I came up the tree to you. I don't know the words.." He smiles as he moves up and slowly sits down next to Tia.. closing a paw over her own. "Have you ever tried to swim in a river? It's kind of like that.. there's a current.. and even if there's a warm sun shining down on it you feel the chill when you plunge in. I... sometimes I can swim in shadows, Tia. It's something my.. sire (there was an obvious note of bitterness at that word) gave me." He sighs, shaking his head just atouch. "Isn't that her name? It's the only one she's ever given me. I think... it suits her. Hard and brilliant, with depths that one can only guess at. Something, I suspect, you share with her?"

Tia ohs softly, nodding as Durras explains his talent then cupping his chin when she hears the bitterness in his voice and says, "Don't sound like that. He gave you life so that we could meet." Its her turn to shake her head a bit then smiles, "We call her, well, the elders and others call her, Driel, or Dre for short. Always have."

Durras feels suddenly embarassed and humble... "You don't know him, Tia... Lena. He... he was everthing that gave the Drow their reputation. Until now.. I've never felt I had a reason to have been given life.. until now." He smiles hesitantly, looking directly into her eyes as his paws close over hers, pulling her slightly toward him. "But now.. yes, I do have something to thank him for. For giving me a chance.. for giving me you." He smiles, nodding just at touch. "Driel? Do you think she'd let me call her that as well? If I'm to be her.. son in law?" With that he gently kisses the cat-woman, obviously still holding back.. but from uncertainty and not for any lack of desire or love."

Tia doesn't answer when her lips meet his. Instead, she slips her arms around his neck, purring still, as she returns the kiss. She's given herself completely to the pull of Recognition without hesitation.

Durras's eyes open in brief surprise as her arms close around his neck, and he gives in.. realizing that doubts meant nothing, fears meant nothing.. there was only Recognition, and the beautiful Tia in his paws who WAS his destined.. his.. mate. Tilting his head slightly he deepens the kiss, slowly moving his short muzzle against and into hers as she feels his paws reach around behind her to hold her closer to him. In answer to her gentle purr he rumbles deep in his throat, a sound he'd not known he could make... or had ever found a reason to make.

Deep green eyes, flecked with yellow, peer into the fox' own before Tia closes them and leans into the deepening kiss. Nothing but the fox in her arms matters and the warm comforts of the bower she calls home. A million thoughts flood through her mind, but none of them concern her for now.

Time passes, flowing towards the wee hours before the horizon announces the sun.

The black folca stirrs slightly, his arm streached out over Tia's bare chest and he slowly wakes.. smiling to find his small muzzle burried in the nape of her neck. "Hi there, my heart." He smiles.. still wrapped in the warm glow of their loving, kissing her gently. "You think we woke the neighbors?"

Tia's eyes flutter open, meeting his eyes first off. With a long languid stretch, she purrs and nuzzles into the kiss then slowly sits up, straining to hear if anyone close to her den is awake. Softly, she giggles and shakes her head, "I don't thnk so, though I'd be surprised if we did." All that really comes on the late night air are the soft strains of a lullaby being played and quiet voices of the few guards around the slowly dieing bonfire.

Durras sighs softly, nodding.. "I don't know.. you have this lovely little 'yowl' when you.. ah.." Covering his near goof he looks out the opening of the bower and into the darkness beyond.. a pawful of faint stars peeping thru the thick canopy of leaves. "Listen.. that's a beautiful song.. What is it, Lena? It's as though they were singing it for us." He gently closes his paw over her furred side, slowly brushing her thick fur smooth as he smiles into her happy eyes.

Tia listens more carefully then nods and smiles, "That sounds like mother's flute. She's probably playing for the simple enjoyment of playing and to calm what ever bad dreams may be bothering the kits in this tree." Then, with a sigh, she looks out at the stars and smiles softly, "I would love to play as well she does on my violin."

Durras nods, "She plays the flute? Funny, for some reason I hadn't expected that... but then I would never have expected that she would give life to something so lovely and sweet as you. Your song is sweeter than any flute, Tia, though I would love to hear you play. I.. I'm afraid I coudln't carry a tune in a bucket."

Durras softly growls, "I don't know about unhappy kids, but I know it makes me feel better... somehow, hearing that, makes this moment with you even more special. It's as though it were giving us it's blessing, and promising something special for our tomorrow."

Tia giggles softly and nods, "I'm not that good. I haven't had the formal training like mother had." She leans over, giving his muzzle a gentle kiss, then stands and gets dressed. Dressed in a simple tunic and breeches fit for the warm night air, she settles on the ledge just outside her bower and nods and purrs, "When it comes to mother, there is no telling. This whole village has been the only real family she's ever had and keeps watch even when we can't see her."

Durras reaches over, pulling on his breeches with some reluctance before he bends down and exits the bower to sit next to Tia. He reaches out and closes his arm around her waist, giving her a gentle kiss. "No telling? Your mother seems quite a mystery, though her daughter is no mystery to me.. only a wonder that lifts my heart and gives it wings." He chuckles at himself. "I never thought I would ever say such words.. or felt them and knew they were real. But.. how can she watch and not be seen?"

Giggling, Tia kisses Durras' cheek then looks down at the few folca sitting near the fire then further out from the tree where Jade is sitting on a lone boulder playing to her heart's content. "Mother is... mother, I must say," the young woman says as she turns to look at him again, "How she watches, I don't know, but she does. I and my sisters can feel it. More so when we're in contact with this ancient tree." As she leans against his arm, she sighs, "But... she's changed a lot since poppa died."

Durras frowns for a moment.. reminded again of his own father's death. Adopted or not, he was the only one... until Tia.. who had ever looked on him without mistrust or open revulsion. "Can you.. tell me about him? Has he been.. gone long? I... I lost my own father.. he died and I wasn't there when it happened." He sighs, shaking his head as he gently nuzzles her ear, reasuring rather than erotic. "And I can feel this tree is different, special just as you are special. But I don't understand how I know that, or why it's that way." The smile is a bit rueful as he looks back into her eyes. "I don't need to know why I feel like I do for you.. I know I do and that's all I need to know. But.. this tree, this place... it's like a dream, somehow."

Tia nods slowly, smiling lightly at the nuzzling as she recalls, "Poppa died when I was bout 26 or 27, quite young, but I was considered old enough to have my own bower and be considered an adult. He was a good man, kind, gentle, a leader in his own right, though the title of chief went to another. Poppa usually lead the hunts to make sure the village always stayed fed. That was how he and mother met, during one of those hunts. Their recognition took a couple of years to happen, and was denied for about two seasons, but he was patient and waited until mother was ready even though it was rather hard on the both of them."

Durras closes his eyes, feeling suddenly sad. "They waited for two years? That must have been.. to feel what, what you and I feel and deny it.. That must have been horrible for both of them." He shakes his head.. "I still can't believe you're as old as you say.. you're eternally young to me... though I confess to being as happy as a kit with you. He must have been a good man, and a generous one. He gave me you."

Tia giggles softly and nods, "My sisters and I are among the oldest in the village. Mother gave a new infusion of elven blood to prolong our lives. Perhaps you will add to that as well with our kit after she's born." She gives her fox's cheek one more kiss, then says softly, "Mother does want to speak to you. Might want to get that over with while she's still fairly calm and collected."

Durras begins to reply but catchs himself.. "She? Lena... we just.. I mean, it's only been.. how can you sound so sure?" Then the kiss on his cheek melts every hesitation.. "I wonder what she will look like? She'll have your eyes, I'm sure of that." He leans against you, closing both paws around Tia in a tight squeeze until she can feel each other's hearts beating. "Ah, should I ask what you think she's going to.. say? Is it safe for me to go see her unarmed?"

Tia presses a finger to his lips and grins, "I know I'll have a girl because mother is part fae. The fae she has in her blood can only have girls." Gently, she licks and nuzzles at his ears and holds him close, purring, "Its safe enough. Don't give her a reason to do anything and you'll be fine, though, she does have a temper. Comes from being a natural redhead, I think. My sisters and I are the same way."

Durras shakes his head slightly. "Well.. okay, for our first one. But maybe I'll find a way to change that for our second.. or third... or... We can keep trying for a boy." The smile he gives her is filled with both humor and love.. and a bit of a promise. "And I love redheads.. even with their tempers, though I've not seen yours yet... just the most beautiful smile in the world.. and the most beauitful eyes to go with them." He blushes just a bit at her soft ear nuzzle. "Can I ask what might.. make her unhappy? Or.. more importantly, what might make you unhappy?"

Tia smiles, "We could keep trying." then giggles softly, blushing with the compliment. After the moment passes, she kisses his cheek and scoots him on his way, "You'll have to find out on your own. Just be sure to give mother a lot of respect. She probably is the oldest in this village."

Durras smiles, looking into her eyes and sharing both the love and the promise. Reluctantly he stands and walks over to the bower's entrance, snagging his shirt and putting it on. He stands there for a moment, looking back down the long trunk to the ground far below. "I'll try, Tia. Not because she is the oldest, but because she is your mother. And because I imagine you'd prefer your mate to have all his fur intact." He chuckles, winking at her as he grabs onto the rough bark and tries to ease down the tree.. "I.. I don't think I'm ever going to get good at this, love." Just as he finishes there's a scrabbling sound and a soft 'thump'... "Owww..."

Tia calls out as he hits bottom, giggling, "Use the branches as a ladder and hook your claws into the bark." She stays there on her branch, watching as he makes his way down while listening to a couple of the neighbors grumble about being awakened. From her boulder, Jade watches, aware that the fox is coming for his talk. Though her eyes are on him, she continues to play the same soft sweet lullaby.

Durras slowly stands, groaning slightly as he rubs the suddenly aching bruise on his rump.. "Thank you.. love. I'll be sure to do that..... next time." He turns, limping slightly as he looks back towards the source of the soft music. "Why did she wait until AFTER I hit bottom to tell me.." he mutters to himself.. then chuckles as thoughts of her smile and soft voice sweeps thru him, banishing the irritation.. and almost all of the pain. He pauses for a moment, looking over toward Jade then with a 'gulp' he steps towards her. "Jade, you wanted to see me?"

Jade continues to play as he approaches, only ending the tune after he had spoken then tucking the flute into the rope belt she wears. At first, she says nothing, simply looking him over from head to toe without changing from the almost unreadable expression. There's a sense of formality about her as she nods, then says gently as she motions for him to sit. "Yes, I do."

Durras stands a bit straighter as he realizes he's being evaluated.. not especially comfortable with the thought but knowing that it was enevitable. He has a sudden bad feeling that he might have left a button undone... and prayed if he had it was on his shirt. As Jade gestures he nods and slowly lowers himself onto the soft ground at her feet. "I..." The black folca's voice falls silent as Jade stares at him and he lowers his muzzle slightly in respect.

Jade hmmms softly then nods once, more to herself, then says gently, "Not even denmates and you've Recognized my middle child. What do you plan on doing now that you've answered recognition's call?" There is a faint, hard edge to her tone, but she is genuinely concerned at the moment.

Durras closes his eyes for a moment. "I.... I don't know how, but I know that I love her. I never knew such a feeling could exist." He hesistes for a moment, then looks back up into the elf's eyes. "What do I plan? To remain with Tia, to find someway of providing for her, for our.... our daughter." There is wonder in his voice as he speaks, accepting the reality of both his feelings and comittment. "To be the best husband, mate, and father that the gods will allow me to be. To share a life, and a love, I never knew could exist."

Jade snorts, "Don't put too much faith in gods, pip. They are more trouble than they are worth." The elf lass nods slowly, thinking for a moment then hmms, "Good that you want to take care of her. Of all three of my girls, she's the most like her father in personality." As she was speaking, the elf leans over, bracing her hands on the boulder so she can peer more intently at him. "I have no reason to trust anything related to drow and their spider goddess, Lolth. But..." she states matter of factly, "... you are a folca. For that, I'll grant some leniency. Mind you, I'll be watching until such time as you've proven yourself to me."

Durras's brow furrows slightly as he looks back at you. "My... 'sire' was drow. As was the master he bound me to as a mewling kit. I have his color, and his cast. And...." He hesitated "you have seen the talent he 'gifted' me with at my birth. But I am NOT DROW!! Drow know nothing of love, of caring.. the value of a smile or the joy a gentle touch can bring. Whatever I may be, I am not my sire.." He looks back to you, a bit of desperation in his eyes. "I love your daughter, and will do all that I can for her. I will do my best to make you proud of... of her choice.. and your grandchildren."

Jade arches a brow, the only sign of emotion playing across her face. Then, as her eyes narrow slightly, she says, "I know what the drow are capable of not doing." She then sits back, resembling a petite queen there on her rock, watching his every single move and listening intently. Not only can she see the desperation, she can hear and smell it coming off of him, along with other scents. There is no softening of her expression as she nods slowly, but, within her eyes, there is the faintest hint that the fox has said and done something right in her opinion. "Be sure that you do. Tia is very nieve for all her years and trusts too easily."

Durras nods slowly, almost sadly. "She's not alone.." he whispers to himself, then finishes; "but now neither of us will ever be alone again.." He looks back to Jade, bowing his head slightly. "As you know what the drow do not feel, so I know what they can feel.. the only pleasure they find is in the pain of others. They can't.. can't feel what I feel, for Tia. It would destroy them.. as it is saving me." He bites his lip, then looks directly back to her. "Jade, please... if you feel I am, or have done, wrong.. please tell me. Don't let me... fail her. That would be worse than death."

Jade leans forward, resting her hands on her knees, "You are bound to my daughter in ways nothing but death can destroy. Such is the way of Recognition." She meets the fox' gaze as if to peer into his very soul.

Durras nods slowly, accepting her words and her intense scrutany... sensing her probe deep within his soul and unsure how to respond to it.. then remembers... 'for Tia'.. and tries to open himself as best he can.. something he's never attempted before..

Jade allows a smile to appear and nods, "Guard my daughter and grandchild well, pip." With that, she stands and hops noiselessly from the boulder and adjusts the sword hanging from her belt. Though its still dark, there is a very faint coloring behind the mountains to east, the herald to the coming sunrise. The elf gives the fox one more searching glance then bows and walks into the forest.

Durras stares at the departing elf in surprise and wonder, whispering; "I.. I will.. mother. Thank you, for.. everything." He stands slowly somewhat dizzy after the examination and a strange delight suddenly begins to fill him. "She.. she accepted me. I have a family again.." He suddenly lets out a loud and delighted laugh.. and begins running towards the great tree.. "I HAVE A FAMILY!!!!! TIA!!!!! I LOVE YOU!!"

Jade smirks as she walks off, "Shouting at this early hour won't gain you much favor, pip. Find your way back to her bower, or find an empty one and rest. You'll need all you can get in the coming days."

Durras errfs... then hushes suddenly realizing he was making an ass of himself, again. He blushes, though no one not familiar with him would never notice it under his black skin and fur... "I'll go.. home.. if I can climb up there without breaking my neck again." With that he walked back to the tree as quickly as he could, trying to regain at least the illusion of dignity. Reaching it's base he studies the many vines and the pattern of branches above.. Then, gathering himself, he leaps up to the lowest branch, digging into the tree's thick bark and slowly dragging himself up.. one branch at a time.. until he stands before Tia's bower.. He slowly reaches out to tap lightly at it's side. "Tia.. She.. I think she approves. She told me to take good care of her daughter, and grandaughter."

Tia stirs slightly when she hears the tapping then opens one eye and smiles sleepily. She had dozed off while Jade was inspecting him for worthiness, not that it would have mattered. With a soft purr, she stretches out, yawning and patting the piled furs and cushions beside her, "That's good."

Durras creeps into the bower, then lays down next to her and gives her a gentle embrace, kissing her sleepy lips. "It is.. but not as good as this... I was afraid she would not accept me as your mate... and how that might have hurt you because I can never leave you.."

Soft purrs greet the kiss as a light woven blanket covers the fox and the catelf snuggles in close. Tia only nods, knowing her mother well enough she would have done nothing more than talk.

Durras's eyes close in contentment, snuggling tightly against Tia's soft form as he feels her pull the blanket up over the both of them. "I never did get to thank her, you know. For bringing me here, to find you. She couldn't have known what was going to happen... could she?"

Tia shrugs lightly, already on the way back to the lands of dreams. An ear flicks as she rests her arm across the fox's chest and props her chin on his shoulder, content and warm to sleep the day away.

Durras would have laughed if he'd had the strength.. and realizes that the question was foolish. He had found Tia, he had found a new life, he had found a family. He could feel waves of slumber sweep over him, the soft fur and sweet scent of his mate already bringing him happier dreams then he had ever had before and he began to join her in sleep.. a paw drifting down over her tummy to rest there.. 'my child'... my famil......'

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