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Description
Honestly these two are such cuties I can't even.
Collab with Moose! I love how this has come out and I want to thank you for letting me be part of Morph and Mam's story, and a look forward to what you and ssarq get up to in the future!

RP SUMMARY:
It is Mamela's turn to pick the date location, and she decides to take her to restaurant run by her friend Hestia.

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Mamela
It was early evening, sun creeping down to illuminate the streets in a soft glow.

Tucked away in the city, the sound of cheerful chatting and laughter emerged from a tavern of noticeable standing. Its warm atmosphere from the outside was amplified upon entry. A central courtyard offered fresh air whilst a brazier kept those there warm. Above, an open air balony lining the edges of the courtyard could be seen, with cats relaxing just above their owners. The main building surrounding that was in a U-shape, with the rich on one side and the poor on the other. Waiters and attendants worked their way through them all though, keeping all happy; and so the Homestead Tavern was always bustling with life.

Glancing down from above, Mamela could just make out the humans eating their meal on the ground floor. She never fully got used to the cats having the upper balcony floor to themselves, however she understood the intent well enough. At least it meant she didn't get quite as many weird looks every time she pulled faces at Hestia when she walked by. Mamela understood the pain of working whilst trying to socialise at the same time, and had to admit the tigress had it down to an art.
When her friend came back up to check up on the cats above, the leopard gave an anxious wiggle. "Have you seen him yet? Oh, what if he can't find the place? What if he decides not to come?" Morphingo wasn't that kind of cat however that didn't stop her mind from going wild.

Hestia
Ops there is another empty bowl there. The tigress chided herself as she piled another bowl on the stack on her tray. The tavern was bustling already, with the warm late summer's evening drawing people out of their homes to socialise.
The pink sky could be seen through the dappled foliage of the climbers that surrounded the courtyard where dinners enjoyed themselves.

To those that first entered the outside area of the tavern it'd be easy to miss the second purpose of the overhang, yes it kept the rain off if the weather were to turn or the sun at midday but the unusual purpose was hinted at by the small spiral staircase at the back corner. It was far too low for a human to walk up right up but was perfect for even the largest tiger, allowing them to reach the secluded balcony that the pets of the patrons enjoyed.
Having deposited her full tray for cleaning Hestia paused at the odd group of cats to check the food met their expectations before finally managing to make it to her friend.

She'd pilled this pillows in this bit expertly if she must say. Close enough to the edge that the backdrop was lush vines and the branches of the lower trees but with enough space that both Mam and Morph could recline at ease. It was just missing one thing.
She grabbed a lantern from one of prelit selection and placed it to the side of her friend. Perfect.

She paused as she saw her friends wiggle her words anxious but excited. "Tsk Tsk, you know he'll be here soon. Maybe he's just stopped to find you more flowers" the pale tiger chided affectionately. She'd been all but prowling the front door on the look out for this guy. She had even bribed one of the younger neighbours with some tidbits if they spotted him while she was busy.

She gave her friend a reassuring smile and a quick head bump. "It'll be finneee, better than fine! Just try and relax or you'll get your stomach in a muddle and you won't be able to enjoy all the nice food" she giggled. "Are you sure you don't want anything while you wait. I could bring you some cool water"

Morphingo
The day leading up the inevitable was nerve-wracking, but excitable. That perfect mix of anxiousness that covered all surfaces but reflected the good of it all in the end. Morphingo in particular had the day off, aside from a meekly patrol assigned to him before dawn. And while it would typically take a few minutes to situate himself... It was like springs had been added to his paws.

A good mood, radiated this jaguar through and through. And with walls secured, a trip back home was due to ultimately get ready. Of course... squeeze in a mini lesson for new-comer Mordecai and equally as much the Hunters own Nephew. He was sure the less than excited islander was able to pick up on his spunky attitude, but like Morph cared much. Sporting his new saddle blanket of sorts, vibrant tropical blues and oranges painted his attire & some minimal fabrics were added into his suit... The jaguar was buckled up and ready to hit the road ultimately.

Now... Morphingo didn't truly know where he was supposed to be going. Somewhere in the middle of town, stood a uniquely arranged building. Well, from the inside at the least. But the carefree billow of sounds and smells wafted certainty into his senses, clarifying he'd arrived after many wrong turns and rushed backtracking. But...? There were no cats to be seen. It was baffling to the hunter, because he could smell them all right, but with such an open floor plan it was mind-boggling not to see any. Had he missed happy cat hour or something? Was he too early?
That was until the blurred figure of a cat hit the corner of his maroon pools. Going- Up? A staircase within the courtyard. The wheels started turning before a smile soon returned onto his muzzle and paws lightly and hurriedly carried him to the second floor of the Tavern. It was like the dining area had come to life. Hunters and City Citizens alike- Socializing in a cat cafe of sorts. It was amazing. A quick glance around and soon a double-take was made as through a crowd of gossiping pets shone the mistress that had arranged the entire event, as well as owner & close friend to the walking Clementine - Hestia.

He was in the right place.

Mamela
"Oh maybe! HNG Maybe I should have brought some myself - oh why did I forget to bring something big!" The she-cat rolled back onto her cushion and gave a huff, trying to calm down. This place was lovely; a cosy mix of friendly and proper. Closing her eyes tightly, she took in a few deep breaths and glanced up at her friend. "Thanks for all the help Hestia." Really, the tigress likely had a better idea of how this was going to pan out than her. Mamela took a moment to admire the lantern and atmosphere appreciatively and finally gave the she-cat a friendly head bump back. "Social events still go right over my head!"

Her tummy began to rumble.
Oh yeah, the food! Scooting back up so she was sitting upright she gave another eager glance around for that familiar tangerine boy. It didn't take long before her eyes settled on someone at the top of the stairs, magenta orbs staring back at her. "HE'S HERE HE'S HERE HE'S HERE." She whispers not subtly to Hestia; her stomach doing rolls once again.

"Hey Morph!" She called, trying not to be too loud amongst the other cats there. Stretching her neck, she eagerly watched him approach and gestured to where his cushion was. "Hestia this is Morphingo!" She chirped, pausing before adding, "That is Mr Fruit man." Her eyes darted between the two, hoping they'd get along so badly; however also aware she didn't want to hold the tigress up too long... oh wait should she introduce Hestia to Morphingo as well? Oh bother!
"Morphingo, this is Hestia! Hostess of the Homestead Tavern! - uh as you might have guessed haha." She gently drew a paw over her ear. "I'm glad you were able to find your way here safely."

Hestia
Hestia gave her friend a deadpan look as she freaked out, giggling as she rolled about. "Come now, don't put yourself down like that! If you really were useless at socialising then you wouldn't be having a date with a prestigious hunter HMMM" She laughed as she returned the head bump. "You are beautiful, funny and kind, tonight will be amazing just you wait and see."

And as if by clock work the male in question popped his head up. "Oh oh oh, he is quite good looking". Hestia might not 'feel' the attraction as others seemed to describe it but she knew what a good looking cat was supposed to look like and it seemed this Morph guy was a good fit.

The tigress chuckled as Mam got flustered over the introductions, gosh she really was excited! "Welcome Morph to my humble abode" The pale tiger did a cheeky bow, "where we endeavour to cater to all!" She flashed her best smile and waved for the jaguar to take his seat.

"Would you two love birds like to know the selection of dishes available now or would you like some time to catch up with some beverages first? We have fresh spring water, citrus flavoured water" She gave a subtle wink to Mam, "lightly spiced milk or, if you'd rather something with a little more bite we have both red and white wine available, a nice new hop beer, and a bitter cider open at the moment" She finished with a flourish.

Morphingo
As if he needed the call to catch his attention, Morphingo offered an excited but warm smile - glancing at the rather comfy setting Mamela had picked and gingerly plopped down upon one of the off-white cushions littering the corner. Maroon pools briefly swept the place once more before an introduction was voiced - his nickname of course not failing to shine to the public.

The jaguar could only laugh, flicking an ear back at the banter "Pleasure meeting you Hestia- I've heard many good things about you and your tavern. Standards have definitely met expectations." A purr escaped his jaws, hooking the Leopardess' eye shortly after. "It took a little trial and error, but I made it here alas."

The Tigress didn't hesitate to show her place off then, addressing the matter at hand boldly and hastily. It made the Hunter almost forget what she'd been explaining for the sudden leap of his heart. 'Lovebirds' wasn't a term he heard often.

"Why, service is proving supreme already! Mind if I take advantage of this and request some of your finest flavored delicacy? Lemon is fine for me madam thank you- Mamela?"

Once orders were placed and the Tigress made her way out to fetch the needed supplies - Morph took the opportunity to greet his date officially. "You look stunning per-usual my dear. I'm just appalled you haven't introduced me to this place before. It's incredible."

Mamela
The leopard chuckled to herself and she nodded back to her friend. "Milk please!" She purred, unable to keep back the thought of her last wine tasting tests. She was not going anywhere near that tonight, that much was for sure! "Thank you again Hestia~"

When the tigress left with a smile to grab their drinks, the leopard realised she had been smiling stupidly the entire time, and finally gave way to some light laughter. "Sorry, I can't stop thinking about the last date. I will never look at grapes and wine the same way, Sir Mango." Mamela made a last ditch effort to talk with some normality. "Good to know this was a great surprise place for the date," She sighed, "I met Hestia through work and since we have been good friends." Friends. Huh. Mamela never really considered herself friends with anyone since she didn't get to spend much free time with them, but it came out naturally. It gave her a warm feeling that maybe, perhaps, she wasn't as bad at this whole socialising thing as she initially thought! Or maybe Morphingo is rubbing off on me.

"This place is pretty cool though, right? I'm not sure I could stomach sitting with all the people below." It was a moment of reflection as whilst she was used to a crowded street - this was a different kind of social environment. Her chest felt lighter at not having to worry about being tripped or stepped on, or getting in any of the staff's way. "Oh!" She suddenly remembered her manners, how poor of her the one heading the date this time! "How are you?" Between them, they were always busy.

Morphingo
Watching the pale tigress skip along to retrieve their beverages, it didn't take but seconds before Morphingos eyes darted right back where they belonged. Entranced with his floofy partners.

Her light-hearted ramble made him grin, he could listen to that just about all day, but he didn't miss a beat upon being invited to speak himself. "Me? Why- I think I'm doing just fine Peaches. After all I'm being escorted by the city'sfinest in one of the coolest places I've ever stepped foot in. You outdid yourself my dear."

Morph winked. "A true one-up in date history if you ask me."

The hunter purred, placing a single paw upon the table. So much was going on around them, he still couldn't believe such a place existed. "Who woulda' thought a City Companion Cafe was nestled in the busy streets of Massilia." He looked around briefly again as another feline patrolled by with a tray of appetizers for a neighboring table. "Brilliant.."

Mamela
The she-cat chuckled to herself, nervously running her tongue over her chest a few times as Morph examined the surrounding area and thankfully gave his mew of approval. She bashfully gave the walking orange a playful shove when he called her the city's finest thought - he knew very well how badly she coped under pressure. WOW! That brought back bad memories indeed! How the elite coped under the constant scrutiny was beyond her.

Clearing her throat again (mainly due to the tightness that had been collecting in it), she finally nodded in consensus. "I suppose sometimes you just stumble upon something great by chance, right?" That was how you flirt, right? RIGHT? How Mr Mango made it look so easy was beyond her. She was much more comfortable with layered sarcasm that she nearly always regretted later on! "Although this kind of surprise does make really good food..."

Morphingo
"Sure looks the part-"

Morphingo took a few moments to himself before finally zoning back into what he came here for. A sheepish grin led to laughter in seconds. "Im sorry- I haven't seen cuisine like this since... never- The marketplace perhaps, if even that. Excuse my excitement Mam"

"You know,-" The jaguar started, changing topics "When my momma told me I was a handful as a cub, it's crazy to think it only took till now to realize she wasn't kidding"

"My nephew - Mordecai, I'm not sure if I ever mentioned him to you, he's visiting. Well, more than visiting. Makota is registering him into the program, to train alongside me." Morph grinned "The buggers a quiet one, and a bit to himself but he's his own character that's for sure. Reminds me a lot of my brother."

Mamela
The leopard chuckled, glad they were both having a good time. It was in a different way relaxing. She was happy about it.
She only slightly wavered from her joyful path at his following comments; however it did make her more thoughtful. Was she also a handful when she was a cub? "Having someone younger than you made you realise that youth does in fact equal inexperience?" She mused with a purr, "Can't say I've had the same experience but it's fascinating to think about. Makes me wonder what my siblings would have described me as."

She took a moment and reeled back a bit, "But a brother? Excuse me but for some reason in my head I always imagined you with lots of siblings. You sure you haven't got more than one brother stashed away in a cupboard somewhere?"

Morphingo
"What's wrong with one brother?" Morph challenged with a laugh and a smile.

"Maceo and I are all that'll ever be from our momma. Born in the peaks of our island and raised alongside a village of children, dogs and...." The hunter shivered "Chickens."

Morphingo rolled a shoulder back until the vertebrae popped, and chuckled at a few loose memories. Some of which consisted of the mischief him and Mac got into, and others just being what them as individuals got into. "Unless my mother is hiding some others away, it'll be news to the both of us yeah?" He purred.

"But... we were good kids- a handful don't get me wrong, with no other cubs to entertain us, we took the creative liberty within each other and got into so much trouble. Maceo more so than I however.." The jaguar paused, looking up briefly as if to recall some things. "It's crazy to think after all that time, my brother - who insisted on leaving home and finding his own path, very independent he was... found his way back into the village to further look after it and... Now he's got kids. Three, to be exact."

Morphingo shook his head lightly, "And some are just... little mini versions of him and his mate."

Mamela
"Oh nothing's wrong with it!" She quickly inputted, flustered, "Oh dear no, its just you seemed so well social - it just made sense in my head." Although, from what he was saying , it didn't sound like those social skills were all inclusive. Chickens? Who would have guessed? And mischief makers too...

"Well, for your sake I hope at least some of that trouble making side doesn't sneak into work," She said affirmably, before flustered adding, "Of course, outside from work is a very different deal. I'm always up for spontaneous challenges!"

This Maceo, it sounded like Morphingo was quite close to them, and it almost seemed a shock to her to find he decided to stay at the village. Then again, as much as she wanted to run, she also stuck close to her home out of a sense of family duty. Perhaps they were quite similar in that kind of way - although she wouldn't tell the Jaguar that - she didn't need Mr Orange here using that as an excuse to dub her a trouble maker too!

"Do you think they will stay over there for good, or maybe one day join you and their son over here? Either way, you have to introduce me to some of this mischievous bunch when they are on their good behaviour," She rumbled with a chuckle.

Morphingo
Morphingo shrugged, shaking his head wistfully with a smile "Maceo? Why.. I have no idea. He's full of surprises-"

Regardless of his reply, what Mamela has concluded her statement with made the jaguar chuckle, ears pinned as he nudged her. "-But as soon as I get the chance, it'll be the first thing I do. The real question is, am I gonna need to drag you on a boat? Or my brother?"

The thought triggered more laughter from the speckled hunter, causing him to bring his paw up to his muzzle as if to try and cover up his fit.

"And for the record Peach," Morph began, "That trouble making spirit is what keeps me going'. Gotta think like a criminal to catch one". The jaguar purred with amusement, only half joking in his statement.

Hestia
Hestia hadn't been eavesdropping. No that'd be rude. She had merely been making sure he was the gentleman Mamela had insisted he was... And it seemed like she was right. He did seem a sweetheart and the way he made her friend laugh definitely brought a smile to her face.

The sound of a small bell caught her attention as an exasperated serving boy finally got her attention. OPF the drinks!! She dashed over to her neatly presented tray with the bowl of fresh cooled water with a nice slice of lemon and one of lightly spiced milk. She purred in thanks to the boy before picking the handle of the tray up deftly in her mouth.

Up the steps and onto the balcony she gently hopped. Careful not to spill the drinks. She approached their little low table and placed their tray on it before gently nosing off the drinks to their prospective owners.

"Here we go!" chirped, smiling at the pair of them, "Are you ready to order food? We have a nice selection today; Fresh caught grilled plaice is proving to be a favourite at the moment or perhaps if you're not in a fishy mood maybe the sage stuffed pheasant would be more appropriate OR we have a special today of interesting variety. My owner has been trying some new things lately and has made a sweeter stew than usual of pork and apple" She finished her speech hoping she hadn't interrupted too much!

"Don't worry if you want to think over it, I can always come back when you're ready"

Mamela
The she-cat stifled a bout of chuckles, but before she could make a snide reply Hestia returned with their drinks; her presence reminding her that they were in fact in a semi-public setting. "Oh bother, I haven't even thought about it - uh - well, haha that's not strictly true but..." Her stomach rumbled audibly as if to prove the point, and the she-cats face went hot under the surface. "Well, Pheasant for me please."
Mamela didn't say it outloud, but her mind went back to their wine tasting and how she had discovered her... not so exotic palette. So as nice as the pork sounded... she wasn't going to risk something new tonight. After all, it wasn't like they could go for an evening run around the tavern if things didn't go well! ... could they?

Shaking her head in an attempt to collect some thoughts other than 'MMM FOOD', she glanced over towards Morphingo. He wasn't the riches hunter on the block, but he was still a hunter, and from an exotic background. "What takes your fancy Mr Giggles?" She rumbled, hinting that perhaps his earlier fit of giggles had not gone unnoticed after all. Not that she hadn't also been laughing as well. She had poorly hidden hers as well!

Morphingo
Morphingo let his eyes grow wide for a moment as the waitress returned with drinks and a small list of delicacies. He was with Mam on that one, he hadn’t thought much about the meal portion either.
Exchanging a glance with the leopardess, Morph let his paws shuffle, wiggling in his seat for the moment until Hesita had turned her attention to him.

The jaguar noted Mamelas choice, and after a few seconds of weighing options he’d finally landed on a decision. “Y’know.. Pheasant sounds really good right about now-“

Morphingo blew a small bout of air through his nostrils in a way of silent laughter, and nodded the tigress off as they finalized their order. “Much appreciated madam-!” He managed to call out last second, before turning to his spotted companion.

Leaning in, Morph murmured:
“..Can’t say I’m particularly fond of pheasants either.... but like chickens- They’re pretty good with a crispy exterior.”

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Word count: 3905
Hestia belongs to FeatherBrain4
Morphingo belongs to MostlyMoose
Mamela belongs to me, and very shortly ssarq

Description
Honestly these two are such cuties I can't even.
Collab with Moose! I love how this has come out and I want to thank you for letting me be part of Morph and Mam's story, and a look forward to what you and ssarq get up to in the future!

RP SUMMARY:
It is Mamela's turn to pick the date location, and she decides to take her to restaurant run by her friend Hestia.

----------

Mamela
It was early evening, sun creeping down to illuminate the streets in a soft glow.

Tucked away in the city, the sound of cheerful chatting and laughter emerged from a tavern of noticeable standing. Its warm atmosphere from the outside was amplified upon entry. A central courtyard offered fresh air whilst a brazier kept those there warm. Above, an open air balony lining the edges of the courtyard could be seen, with cats relaxing just above their owners. The main building surrounding that was in a U-shape, with the rich on one side and the poor on the other. Waiters and attendants worked their way through them all though, keeping all happy; and so the Homestead Tavern was always bustling with life.

Glancing down from above, Mamela could just make out the humans eating their meal on the ground floor. She never fully got used to the cats having the upper balcony floor to themselves, however she understood the intent well enough. At least it meant she didn't get quite as many weird looks every time she pulled faces at Hestia when she walked by. Mamela understood the pain of working whilst trying to socialise at the same time, and had to admit the tigress had it down to an art.
When her friend came back up to check up on the cats above, the leopard gave an anxious wiggle. "Have you seen him yet? Oh, what if he can't find the place? What if he decides not to come?" Morphingo wasn't that kind of cat however that didn't stop her mind from going wild.

Hestia
Ops there is another empty bowl there. The tigress chided herself as she piled another bowl on the stack on her tray. The tavern was bustling already, with the warm late summer's evening drawing people out of their homes to socialise.
The pink sky could be seen through the dappled foliage of the climbers that surrounded the courtyard where dinners enjoyed themselves.

To those that first entered the outside area of the tavern it'd be easy to miss the second purpose of the overhang, yes it kept the rain off if the weather were to turn or the sun at midday but the unusual purpose was hinted at by the small spiral staircase at the back corner. It was far too low for a human to walk up right up but was perfect for even the largest tiger, allowing them to reach the secluded balcony that the pets of the patrons enjoyed.
Having deposited her full tray for cleaning Hestia paused at the odd group of cats to check the food met their expectations before finally managing to make it to her friend.

She'd pilled this pillows in this bit expertly if she must say. Close enough to the edge that the backdrop was lush vines and the branches of the lower trees but with enough space that both Mam and Morph could recline at ease. It was just missing one thing.
She grabbed a lantern from one of prelit selection and placed it to the side of her friend. Perfect.

She paused as she saw her friends wiggle her words anxious but excited. "Tsk Tsk, you know he'll be here soon. Maybe he's just stopped to find you more flowers" the pale tiger chided affectionately. She'd been all but prowling the front door on the look out for this guy. She had even bribed one of the younger neighbours with some tidbits if they spotted him while she was busy.

She gave her friend a reassuring smile and a quick head bump. "It'll be finneee, better than fine! Just try and relax or you'll get your stomach in a muddle and you won't be able to enjoy all the nice food" she giggled. "Are you sure you don't want anything while you wait. I could bring you some cool water"

Morphingo
The day leading up the inevitable was nerve-wracking, but excitable. That perfect mix of anxiousness that covered all surfaces but reflected the good of it all in the end. Morphingo in particular had the day off, aside from a meekly patrol assigned to him before dawn. And while it would typically take a few minutes to situate himself... It was like springs had been added to his paws.

A good mood, radiated this jaguar through and through. And with walls secured, a trip back home was due to ultimately get ready. Of course... squeeze in a mini lesson for new-comer Mordecai and equally as much the Hunters own Nephew. He was sure the less than excited islander was able to pick up on his spunky attitude, but like Morph cared much. Sporting his new saddle blanket of sorts, vibrant tropical blues and oranges painted his attire & some minimal fabrics were added into his suit... The jaguar was buckled up and ready to hit the road ultimately.

Now... Morphingo didn't truly know where he was supposed to be going. Somewhere in the middle of town, stood a uniquely arranged building. Well, from the inside at the least. But the carefree billow of sounds and smells wafted certainty into his senses, clarifying he'd arrived after many wrong turns and rushed backtracking. But...? There were no cats to be seen. It was baffling to the hunter, because he could smell them all right, but with such an open floor plan it was mind-boggling not to see any. Had he missed happy cat hour or something? Was he too early?
That was until the blurred figure of a cat hit the corner of his maroon pools. Going- Up? A staircase within the courtyard. The wheels started turning before a smile soon returned onto his muzzle and paws lightly and hurriedly carried him to the second floor of the Tavern. It was like the dining area had come to life. Hunters and City Citizens alike- Socializing in a cat cafe of sorts. It was amazing. A quick glance around and soon a double-take was made as through a crowd of gossiping pets shone the mistress that had arranged the entire event, as well as owner & close friend to the walking Clementine - Hestia.

He was in the right place.

Mamela
"Oh maybe! HNG Maybe I should have brought some myself - oh why did I forget to bring something big!" The she-cat rolled back onto her cushion and gave a huff, trying to calm down. This place was lovely; a cosy mix of friendly and proper. Closing her eyes tightly, she took in a few deep breaths and glanced up at her friend. "Thanks for all the help Hestia." Really, the tigress likely had a better idea of how this was going to pan out than her. Mamela took a moment to admire the lantern and atmosphere appreciatively and finally gave the she-cat a friendly head bump back. "Social events still go right over my head!"

Her tummy began to rumble.
Oh yeah, the food! Scooting back up so she was sitting upright she gave another eager glance around for that familiar tangerine boy. It didn't take long before her eyes settled on someone at the top of the stairs, magenta orbs staring back at her. "HE'S HERE HE'S HERE HE'S HERE." She whispers not subtly to Hestia; her stomach doing rolls once again.

"Hey Morph!" She called, trying not to be too loud amongst the other cats there. Stretching her neck, she eagerly watched him approach and gestured to where his cushion was. "Hestia this is Morphingo!" She chirped, pausing before adding, "That is Mr Fruit man." Her eyes darted between the two, hoping they'd get along so badly; however also aware she didn't want to hold the tigress up too long... oh wait should she introduce Hestia to Morphingo as well? Oh bother!
"Morphingo, this is Hestia! Hostess of the Homestead Tavern! - uh as you might have guessed haha." She gently drew a paw over her ear. "I'm glad you were able to find your way here safely."

Hestia
Hestia gave her friend a deadpan look as she freaked out, giggling as she rolled about. "Come now, don't put yourself down like that! If you really were useless at socialising then you wouldn't be having a date with a prestigious hunter HMMM" She laughed as she returned the head bump. "You are beautiful, funny and kind, tonight will be amazing just you wait and see."

And as if by clock work the male in question popped his head up. "Oh oh oh, he is quite good looking". Hestia might not 'feel' the attraction as others seemed to describe it but she knew what a good looking cat was supposed to look like and it seemed this Morph guy was a good fit.

The tigress chuckled as Mam got flustered over the introductions, gosh she really was excited! "Welcome Morph to my humble abode" The pale tiger did a cheeky bow, "where we endeavour to cater to all!" She flashed her best smile and waved for the jaguar to take his seat.

"Would you two love birds like to know the selection of dishes available now or would you like some time to catch up with some beverages first? We have fresh spring water, citrus flavoured water" She gave a subtle wink to Mam, "lightly spiced milk or, if you'd rather something with a little more bite we have both red and white wine available, a nice new hop beer, and a bitter cider open at the moment" She finished with a flourish.

Morphingo
As if he needed the call to catch his attention, Morphingo offered an excited but warm smile - glancing at the rather comfy setting Mamela had picked and gingerly plopped down upon one of the off-white cushions littering the corner. Maroon pools briefly swept the place once more before an introduction was voiced - his nickname of course not failing to shine to the public.

The jaguar could only laugh, flicking an ear back at the banter "Pleasure meeting you Hestia- I've heard many good things about you and your tavern. Standards have definitely met expectations." A purr escaped his jaws, hooking the Leopardess' eye shortly after. "It took a little trial and error, but I made it here alas."

The Tigress didn't hesitate to show her place off then, addressing the matter at hand boldly and hastily. It made the Hunter almost forget what she'd been explaining for the sudden leap of his heart. 'Lovebirds' wasn't a term he heard often.

"Why, service is proving supreme already! Mind if I take advantage of this and request some of your finest flavored delicacy? Lemon is fine for me madam thank you- Mamela?"

Once orders were placed and the Tigress made her way out to fetch the needed supplies - Morph took the opportunity to greet his date officially. "You look stunning per-usual my dear. I'm just appalled you haven't introduced me to this place before. It's incredible."

Mamela
The leopard chuckled to herself and she nodded back to her friend. "Milk please!" She purred, unable to keep back the thought of her last wine tasting tests. She was not going anywhere near that tonight, that much was for sure! "Thank you again Hestia~"

When the tigress left with a smile to grab their drinks, the leopard realised she had been smiling stupidly the entire time, and finally gave way to some light laughter. "Sorry, I can't stop thinking about the last date. I will never look at grapes and wine the same way, Sir Mango." Mamela made a last ditch effort to talk with some normality. "Good to know this was a great surprise place for the date," She sighed, "I met Hestia through work and since we have been good friends." Friends. Huh. Mamela never really considered herself friends with anyone since she didn't get to spend much free time with them, but it came out naturally. It gave her a warm feeling that maybe, perhaps, she wasn't as bad at this whole socialising thing as she initially thought! Or maybe Morphingo is rubbing off on me.

"This place is pretty cool though, right? I'm not sure I could stomach sitting with all the people below." It was a moment of reflection as whilst she was used to a crowded street - this was a different kind of social environment. Her chest felt lighter at not having to worry about being tripped or stepped on, or getting in any of the staff's way. "Oh!" She suddenly remembered her manners, how poor of her the one heading the date this time! "How are you?" Between them, they were always busy.

Morphingo
Watching the pale tigress skip along to retrieve their beverages, it didn't take but seconds before Morphingos eyes darted right back where they belonged. Entranced with his floofy partners.

Her light-hearted ramble made him grin, he could listen to that just about all day, but he didn't miss a beat upon being invited to speak himself. "Me? Why- I think I'm doing just fine Peaches. After all I'm being escorted by the city'sfinest in one of the coolest places I've ever stepped foot in. You outdid yourself my dear."

Morph winked. "A true one-up in date history if you ask me."

The hunter purred, placing a single paw upon the table. So much was going on around them, he still couldn't believe such a place existed. "Who woulda' thought a City Companion Cafe was nestled in the busy streets of Massilia." He looked around briefly again as another feline patrolled by with a tray of appetizers for a neighboring table. "Brilliant.."

Mamela
The she-cat chuckled to herself, nervously running her tongue over her chest a few times as Morph examined the surrounding area and thankfully gave his mew of approval. She bashfully gave the walking orange a playful shove when he called her the city's finest thought - he knew very well how badly she coped under pressure. WOW! That brought back bad memories indeed! How the elite coped under the constant scrutiny was beyond her.

Clearing her throat again (mainly due to the tightness that had been collecting in it), she finally nodded in consensus. "I suppose sometimes you just stumble upon something great by chance, right?" That was how you flirt, right? RIGHT? How Mr Mango made it look so easy was beyond her. She was much more comfortable with layered sarcasm that she nearly always regretted later on! "Although this kind of surprise does make really good food..."

Morphingo
"Sure looks the part-"

Morphingo took a few moments to himself before finally zoning back into what he came here for. A sheepish grin led to laughter in seconds. "Im sorry- I haven't seen cuisine like this since... never- The marketplace perhaps, if even that. Excuse my excitement Mam"

"You know,-" The jaguar started, changing topics "When my momma told me I was a handful as a cub, it's crazy to think it only took till now to realize she wasn't kidding"

"My nephew - Mordecai, I'm not sure if I ever mentioned him to you, he's visiting. Well, more than visiting. Makota is registering him into the program, to train alongside me." Morph grinned "The buggers a quiet one, and a bit to himself but he's his own character that's for sure. Reminds me a lot of my brother."

Mamela
The leopard chuckled, glad they were both having a good time. It was in a different way relaxing. She was happy about it.
She only slightly wavered from her joyful path at his following comments; however it did make her more thoughtful. Was she also a handful when she was a cub? "Having someone younger than you made you realise that youth does in fact equal inexperience?" She mused with a purr, "Can't say I've had the same experience but it's fascinating to think about. Makes me wonder what my siblings would have described me as."

She took a moment and reeled back a bit, "But a brother? Excuse me but for some reason in my head I always imagined you with lots of siblings. You sure you haven't got more than one brother stashed away in a cupboard somewhere?"

Morphingo
"What's wrong with one brother?" Morph challenged with a laugh and a smile.

"Maceo and I are all that'll ever be from our momma. Born in the peaks of our island and raised alongside a village of children, dogs and...." The hunter shivered "Chickens."

Morphingo rolled a shoulder back until the vertebrae popped, and chuckled at a few loose memories. Some of which consisted of the mischief him and Mac got into, and others just being what them as individuals got into. "Unless my mother is hiding some others away, it'll be news to the both of us yeah?" He purred.

"But... we were good kids- a handful don't get me wrong, with no other cubs to entertain us, we took the creative liberty within each other and got into so much trouble. Maceo more so than I however.." The jaguar paused, looking up briefly as if to recall some things. "It's crazy to think after all that time, my brother - who insisted on leaving home and finding his own path, very independent he was... found his way back into the village to further look after it and... Now he's got kids. Three, to be exact."

Morphingo shook his head lightly, "And some are just... little mini versions of him and his mate."

Mamela
"Oh nothing's wrong with it!" She quickly inputted, flustered, "Oh dear no, its just you seemed so well social - it just made sense in my head." Although, from what he was saying , it didn't sound like those social skills were all inclusive. Chickens? Who would have guessed? And mischief makers too...

"Well, for your sake I hope at least some of that trouble making side doesn't sneak into work," She said affirmably, before flustered adding, "Of course, outside from work is a very different deal. I'm always up for spontaneous challenges!"

This Maceo, it sounded like Morphingo was quite close to them, and it almost seemed a shock to her to find he decided to stay at the village. Then again, as much as she wanted to run, she also stuck close to her home out of a sense of family duty. Perhaps they were quite similar in that kind of way - although she wouldn't tell the Jaguar that - she didn't need Mr Orange here using that as an excuse to dub her a trouble maker too!

"Do you think they will stay over there for good, or maybe one day join you and their son over here? Either way, you have to introduce me to some of this mischievous bunch when they are on their good behaviour," She rumbled with a chuckle.

Morphingo
Morphingo shrugged, shaking his head wistfully with a smile "Maceo? Why.. I have no idea. He's full of surprises-"

Regardless of his reply, what Mamela has concluded her statement with made the jaguar chuckle, ears pinned as he nudged her. "-But as soon as I get the chance, it'll be the first thing I do. The real question is, am I gonna need to drag you on a boat? Or my brother?"

The thought triggered more laughter from the speckled hunter, causing him to bring his paw up to his muzzle as if to try and cover up his fit.

"And for the record Peach," Morph began, "That trouble making spirit is what keeps me going'. Gotta think like a criminal to catch one". The jaguar purred with amusement, only half joking in his statement.

Hestia
Hestia hadn't been eavesdropping. No that'd be rude. She had merely been making sure he was the gentleman Mamela had insisted he was... And it seemed like she was right. He did seem a sweetheart and the way he made her friend laugh definitely brought a smile to her face.

The sound of a small bell caught her attention as an exasperated serving boy finally got her attention. OPF the drinks!! She dashed over to her neatly presented tray with the bowl of fresh cooled water with a nice slice of lemon and one of lightly spiced milk. She purred in thanks to the boy before picking the handle of the tray up deftly in her mouth.

Up the steps and onto the balcony she gently hopped. Careful not to spill the drinks. She approached their little low table and placed their tray on it before gently nosing off the drinks to their prospective owners.

"Here we go!" chirped, smiling at the pair of them, "Are you ready to order food? We have a nice selection today; Fresh caught grilled plaice is proving to be a favourite at the moment or perhaps if you're not in a fishy mood maybe the sage stuffed pheasant would be more appropriate OR we have a special today of interesting variety. My owner has been trying some new things lately and has made a sweeter stew than usual of pork and apple" She finished her speech hoping she hadn't interrupted too much!

"Don't worry if you want to think over it, I can always come back when you're ready"

Mamela
The she-cat stifled a bout of chuckles, but before she could make a snide reply Hestia returned with their drinks; her presence reminding her that they were in fact in a semi-public setting. "Oh bother, I haven't even thought about it - uh - well, haha that's not strictly true but..." Her stomach rumbled audibly as if to prove the point, and the she-cats face went hot under the surface. "Well, Pheasant for me please."
Mamela didn't say it outloud, but her mind went back to their wine tasting and how she had discovered her... not so exotic palette. So as nice as the pork sounded... she wasn't going to risk something new tonight. After all, it wasn't like they could go for an evening run around the tavern if things didn't go well! ... could they?

Shaking her head in an attempt to collect some thoughts other than 'MMM FOOD', she glanced over towards Morphingo. He wasn't the riches hunter on the block, but he was still a hunter, and from an exotic background. "What takes your fancy Mr Giggles?" She rumbled, hinting that perhaps his earlier fit of giggles had not gone unnoticed after all. Not that she hadn't also been laughing as well. She had poorly hidden hers as well!

Morphingo
Morphingo let his eyes grow wide for a moment as the waitress returned with drinks and a small list of delicacies. He was with Mam on that one, he hadn’t thought much about the meal portion either.
Exchanging a glance with the leopardess, Morph let his paws shuffle, wiggling in his seat for the moment until Hesita had turned her attention to him.

The jaguar noted Mamelas choice, and after a few seconds of weighing options he’d finally landed on a decision. “Y’know.. Pheasant sounds really good right about now-“

Morphingo blew a small bout of air through his nostrils in a way of silent laughter, and nodded the tigress off as they finalized their order. “Much appreciated madam-!” He managed to call out last second, before turning to his spotted companion.

Leaning in, Morph murmured:
“..Can’t say I’m particularly fond of pheasants either.... but like chickens- They’re pretty good with a crispy exterior.”

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Word count: 3905
Hestia belongs to FeatherBrain4
Morphingo belongs to MostlyMoose
Mamela belongs to me, and very shortly ssarq