When the colt introduced himself as Jackal and his dragon as Dei, Smoke paused with them memory of her daughter's story of coming across the son of Aerwen. His mention of Kimber's name cinched it for her, and her demeanor softened noticeably. "Yes, Kimber is my youngest. She told me about you, and Paladin's daughters." Dark head lowered slightly as she stepped closer, halving the distance between them before halting. "Your mother was like a daughter to me, her mother my friend. Your father was a friend of mine as well. I am dearly sorry for their loss, but am glad that you are doing well." Her voice was low and gentle as she spoke.
"What brings you to the Foothills, young Jackal?" With careful tact she changed the subject, offering the colt an escape route if he wished to dodge the things that certainly pained him the most. A trilling sing-song rose from the dual-hued throat of the blue upon her haunches, a sound that somehow whispered of sympathy while at the same time giving voice to a joy for life.