Birdhemian Rhapsody

Asla was insistent, trying desperately to explain her point of view and Zee did her best to seem understanding and focused. She sighed softly, looking down at her daughter with fondness and warmth. "The only things I want you to help are yourself and your brothers." She repeated calmly, moving to groom the girl as she draped herself across her legs. "The chicken does not matter to me as much as you do, and I would rather the chicken not get help at all if that's what keeps you safe. I have many chickens, I only have one you."

Hoping the point got across, she lay her head down upon her daughter's back, sandwiching her softly where she lay. "I'm not mad, I only love you. Sometimes love comes out in ways that might be scary or sad, but it's always going to be love." Zee glanced out the den with the corner of her eye, watching the world outside and wondering what next would try to take her children from her. Parenting was exhausting.