It had been a long day for everyone. Huge fire in the cornfields that Dusty and Mayday had to put out, salvaging whatever corn was left for everyone else. It was just irritating. Everyone was happy when it was all over and they could just rest.
Or in the case of Dusty and Skipper, having quality time with the little Crophoppers. They were growing up fast along with Dottie's twins. Skipper was glad he was alive to see all this… including the arrival of the youngest Crophopper.
"I could've sworn Jett was Aries size yesterday." Skipper commented, looking at the little baby girl in Dusty's arms. "What happened?"
"I honestly don't know. Just… when by really quick." Dusty rocked Aries gently, she was fast asleep currently. "Guess time really does fly."
"Yeah… Don't I know it." Skipper looked out to the fields. The two of them were on a bench, keeping an eye on the other two kids along with the twins who were playing with Sparky and Chug. Skipper smiled as Sparky scooped one of them kids up, spinning them around. "Sparky and I have been around for a long time now… We've seen a lot of changes since our prime… I'm glad we both get to know your kids. I didn't think I'd live to be this old."
"And trust me… I'm glad they get to know you too. If there was anyone I would want my kids to know it would be you." Dusty smiled a bit. "You mean a lot to me Skipper."
Skipper smiled back.
"You mean a lot to me too Dusty. You were my best student… and my best teacher."
"Skip…"
"Be that teacher for your kids. They're your legacy after all. You get to have that chance unlike me. Teach 'em well."
"I will."
"Bah!"
Both looked down, seeing Aries was awake now. She giggled as their eyes met with her big blue ones.
"Looks like Aries is in agreement." Skipper chuckled.
"Indeed… Hey, Skip?"
"Hm?"
"I'm gonna have to disagree on you not having a legacy… because you actually do."
"How you figure? I have no family."
"Propwash is your family, Skipper." Dusty gave a serious look. "You've taught us a lot… and heck, Chandra even calls you grandpa. You're one of us. You've been teaching them too… and more importantly, you taught me."
Skipper got a touched look. "Dusty."
"No legacy? I don't think so… Least… if you're okay with having ME be what you consider it along with my kids."
Skipper smiled warmly, squeezing Dusty's shoulder.
"I'd be honored."
"Bwah! Bwah!"
"And Aries agrees." Dusty chuckled.
"Good."
Skipper tickled the little girl a little, looking to her siblings again.
I don't know how much longer I'll be around… but the least I can do while I'm still here, is pass down what I know to these kids.
I want Dusty's legacy to thrive.
Because I know it will.