Art looked back at them. "If we're ready ... then let's go."
He started the car and drove. As they went, it occured to Art that he could get in major trouble for releasing a tiger in a hospital, albeit a calm and refined tiger. He banged the steering wheel with his fists. "Damn ... Looks like I'll have to go in with you, Kaira."
After a moment he realized he sounded kind of rude, then added: "Not that I wouldn't have under other circumstances ... I would have, if it weren't for my missing gun. My father left me those in his will, you see, so it's really a matter of sentimental value. I'm sorry if I've been ... inconsiderate."
He realized he really was sorry. And he felt even more guilty for it.
---
Fisher was amused by Dave's little trick. He had almost expected a mouse to manifest itself when Dave proclaimed it to be there, considering the sudden appearance of the gun.
But Akky had given up, and Dave still had that damnable gun in his hand. So it was time to go. "Come, Akky. Maybe I can help you ... elsewhere."
And away he went, drawing Akky with him.....
Dave, relieved, lowered the gun, nearly dropping it. If it did belong to Art, he'd want it back. He'd always had the idea to make the guns heirlooms. Maybe inherited from his father or grandfather. So chances were that that would be how it went.
Dave struggled with the belt a bit, but ultimately reholstered the gun. He moved on in what he hoped was the direction of the camp.
---
Fisher had taken Akky back to his Office, where he had drawn Slade and the others before. He had even "prepared" a dish of milk and a tin of cat food, as a sign of fealty towards the cat.
He indicated the dish to Akky, who had appeared on the tabletop. "Go on. Eat."
---
Blaze and Streak sat in silence, eating an unsatisfying breakfast.
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