He gazes at the sleepy cat. **I do believe I'd welcome even your presence these days.** He strokes Mickey's fur gently, but Mickey rages anyway and hisses until he leaves. **I never could satisfy that cat.** Ejected from the bedroom, he is drawn to the sounds of eating.
**Now, while they are together, would be a good time. I am running out of time and energy.** Luna's frantic barking frightens him for a moment, and he looks behind him for an intruder. Slowly it dawns on him that he is the source of Luna's terror. Sadly, he lifts his hands and backs away. **Another time, I'll try again later.** In the living room he examines his plants. **They are dying too.**