[dionysus]

[ @Arie ]

“Yes, I suppose we are middle old- compared to you at least. Tell me, Stagleech, what do you think you will be when you are forty moons? Will you be old?”

Rushingmoor sighed, shaking his head. He was convinced that Stagleech wouldn’t believe anything aside from the ideas already set in his head. Knowing the young Tom, he’d probably declare that he’d never be old even when he was Rush’s age. Any exasperation cause by the hard-headed and less than educated young cat melted away when Stag wrapped him in a hug and promised not to leave him. Rushingmoor purred and nudged the kid affectionately.

“Don’t worry, Stag, I know you’ll keep me lovely company. But I won’t be lonely if you find someone you love- there’s only so far away from me you can go without leaving the Clancy after all! I appreciate the thought, though.”

The next group of questions prompted a rumbling laugh from the warrior and he nodded heartily.

“I’ll gladly help you pull her out but that does of course mean that you have to actually go to sleep.”

More questions, of course.

“The bees may have been fun but didn’t you regret playing with them for the quarter moon after that you spent covered in welts? Remember how painful they were? No- no more bees! That has more to do with being a functioning cat who isn’t in pain constantly than with being a warrior. Technically I suppose you could continue doing your reckless games as long gn as no one else is endangered but I really don’t see why you’d want to get yourself hurt like that. I do have fun- I spend time with you, go for runs, hunt. These are all things I enjoy.
“The fact that he has a lady friend doesn’t mean Breezefeather is acting like a kit but I saw him joking and racing her the other day. He smiles ear to ear around her like he’s moons younger.”

Hearing about Stagleech’s friends put a frown on Rushingmoor’s face and he nudged the younger cat affectionately.

“I’m sorry to hear about that, Stag. I’m sure they’ll return shortly. In the meantime, you can make some new friends, surely. You’re a joy to be around.”