the golden rule

The anger in her father's eyes was evident but Asla couldn't even whimper. It was only when Bast put herself between Sirius and the pups that something clicked within her brain. If her father hurt the cat she would never forgive him. Bast was good and pure. She was protective and loving. Asla couldn't allow her to get hurt.

Slowly and tentatively, Aslatiel came around the side of the feline. Her shoulder touched Basts for comfort before she placed herself in the line of fire. Azure was much more confident. Much more angry. Asla's big eyes were still wide with shock and fear despite her position.

Her father's words and actions weren't at all what she expected. The girl existed to be shaken again or thrown out into the sand. Instead, Sirius expressed his disappointment and began to walk away. Az continued to explain to their father, but Asla felt that their mission had been accomplished. Her father had said he was afraid for her. She had been afraid too. They were both afraid.

Just as Azure was telling their father that Asla was his, the girl rushed past. She made a beeline for her father, wrapping her small body around one giant front paw. "I'm sorry, papa." The child's voice broke. "You're not one of the bad wolves. You're not." She clung tightly as though he would fade away if she loosened her grip. The girl needed her father. She wanted nothing more than for him to scoop her up and assure her that they would be okay again.