Liam: Smiling "He's eating a nut!"

Seraphine winked at Amelia.

Seraphine: "He's very attuned."

---

Over the weeks, Liam's control improved. He learned to channel his strength and agility, and his nightmares lessened. One afternoon, after a particularly successful session, Liam approached his parents.

Liam: "Mommy, Daddy, can I ask you something?"

Amelia: "Of course, honey."

Liam: "Why am I different?"

They shared a moment of silence before Amelia spoke gently.

Amelia: "What makes you think you're different?"

Liam: "I can do things other kids can't. Like jump really high and hear things far away."

Xander knelt beside him.

Xander: "Liam, you are special, but different doesn't mean bad. It means you have gifts that others don't."

Liam: "Like a superhero?"

Amelia: Smiling "In a way, yes."

Liam: "Will I always be like this?"

Xander: "Yes, and as you grow, you'll learn more about your abilities."

Liam considered this.

Liam: "Can I help people with them?"

Amelia: "If you choose to, you can use them for good."

He smiled brightly.

Liam: "I like that."

---

One evening, after Liam was asleep, Amelia and Xander sat on the porch, the stars twinkling above.

Amelia: "He's handling this better than I expected."

Xander: "Children are resilient."

Amelia: "I was so worried about how this would affect him."

Xander: "We're guiding him, and he's not alone."

She looked at him appreciatively.

Amelia: "I'm glad you're here."