All In Good Fun

I like how Moxy and Brazil’s relationship has evolved. Initially, I thought that Shimmer was going to bully the Mixer, or at least periodically chase him with unpleasant intent, as he does Imogen. To be honest, I didn’t know what Brazil wanted to do if he caught Moxy. It may have been no more than an invitation to play, which the latter did not understand; he was still learning about play.

But rather rapidly, their interaction became something else. I first noticed it when they lie together on the bed. It wasn’t just the fact that they were lying peaceably together, often with Valkyrie, but that Moxy allowed it. Imo would never tolerate Brazil’s proximity.

Then I noticed Moxy trying to grab Brazil now and then, usually as Mox was lying on the floor and the other passed by. I didn’t think that someone like Moxy was trying to start a real fight. I was right.

Now, the two will wrestle. They are harder and a bit more earnest battles than those Moxy has with Valkyrie. The seizing and twisting of heads, the kicking of stomachs, the biting of necks, the tossing of bodies over shoulders: all are heavier and slightly fiercer. This may have to do with the combatants being closer in weight and size than in the duels between Moxy and Valk. It is impressive to see and hear, with the thuds and bangs, though neither the Mixer nor Brazil say anything during the match.

The cats’ silence, among other things, tells me that the fighting isn’t real. There are no growls, no hisses; the ears aren’t flat back; there are pauses when bellies are exposed and backs are turned. Neither is really afraid of the other.

This is just fun; for the beasts, and for me.