It looked like the rules had disheartened the little thing, but for all that Do'al was worth, he found it a little hard to give a damn. If he was going to suddenly be responsible for some get that wasn't even his, the little brat could learn the rules and obey them. He wouldn't let him starve, at least not without damn good reason, and he'd make sure none of the others tortured him too badly. Do'al was pretty convinced he'd be an alright father figure - better than the majority of these fluffy goo-for-brains around here.
"Yes, Kip is my mate." He said with a little hesitance, a frown creasing his brows for a moment. He wasn't used to using some of these terms to describe the things in his life, but the cub seemed to be at an age where he didn't understand much of anything and the odd ways the lions around him were bound to him would probably be lost upon him. Kip was his mate, but not. His group of lions were like a pride, but not really. It was easier to use the terms and have it done with than try to explain all the little details. "And yes, she's nicer. Most days." The thought made him laugh, and a wicked smile stretched over his maw as he did so. Kip was an interesting character - he wondered if she'd give the poor runt nightmares.
"Good, come on, then," he said with a nod, turning and heading off in the direction he had left his troupe. He was mindful not to walk too fast, knowing his long legs would take bigger strides than the tiny ones of the cub. He didn't bother to glance back and make sure the little thing was following - he could either keep up, or fall behind. There was no room for being weak, not now.
