Wheeling Gull Isle he leaves the ninety-nine

He found them by Ava's snarls. A warning to stay away, but he was not afraid. As he drew near the place they hid he slid to the ground and crawled his way forward until he could see them.

Ava stood like a gargoyle protecting its patrons; Ana cowered. Everett could hardly see her beyond her sister's shield.

Ava, he said, unsure if he'd be heard over the girl's alarming cries, Ana.

And he reached out his paw as an offer for the children to come. To know.

Whatever had happened, they were never out of reach.