Erika purred as Nyla scratched her gently behind the ears, her tail moving side to side with happiness. But Leslie wasn't as consoled as his sister was.<span style="font-style: italic"><span style="color: #BF4000">How can I not be upset? You're hurt, Nyla, and I can't do anything to heal you. I couldn't do anything to defend you while you're at home, and knowing you could be hurt again by your father makes me feel helpless to protect you.</span></span>His growling had stopped though, turning into a soft whine.<span style="color: #BF4000"><span style="font-style: italic">I'll always be here for you. You can count on me. I will never leave you ever, especially at times like this. I will be at your side when you are hurt and upset, and I will help you when you are in danger. We've known each other for forever. Nothing will ever make me leave you.</span></span><br/><br/>Erika purred softly, nuzzling her head up under Nyla's chin.<span style="font-style: italic"><span style="color: #BF0080">We will always be here for you no matter what. We promise.</span></span>Leslie shifted a bit, letting there be enough room for all three of them to cuddle. He began to purr as well, the sound sending vibrations through his and could probably be felt by Nyla. Erika listened to the girl's answer to her question, her ears flicking slightly.<span style="color: #BF0080"><span style="font-style: italic">People fear what they don't know. And they hate what is unknown because they are unsure of whether someone will turn out to be an ally or an enemy. I would say your father wants to protect you... but he has a kind of counter-productive method of doing so. </span></span><br/><br/>Leslie nuzzled his head against Nyla's shoulder.<span style="color: #BF4000"><span style="font-style: italic">Never think you aren't strong, Nyla. No one else is as strong as you are. The weakness you have makes you physically weak, but there is more to strength that just outer looks. Your heart may be weak, but your spirit is stronger than anyone else's because you had fought against this disease and survived through it. Bravery and courage are the greatest forms of strength. And I have never seen or met anyone with even half the amount of either of those as you do. </span></span>