In all experience, there is something to be learned. In deepest sorrow, wisdom is found. In the well of despair, hope rises.

The warmth of his embrace soaked into me, a powerful charm against the dark things.

What I do . . . the path I tread . . . it brings some choices that test me hard.

Johnny was sobbing in shuddering gasps, telling me his small tale of woe, that the world was suddently different, and that he wanted me to make it better, right now please." --Liadan's interpretation of her baby's cries.

He would have told her - he would have said, it matters not if you are here or there, for I see you before me every moment. I see you in the light of the water, in the swaying of the young trees in the spring wind. I see you in the shadows of the great oaks, I hear your voice in the cry of the owl at night. You are the blood in my veins, and the beating of my heart. You are my first waking thought, and my last sigh before sleeping. You are - you are bone of my bone, and breath of my breath.

You are... you're like a beating heart. A glowing lamp. I've never met anyone like you before.

This had been real: real in its flaws and uncertainties, real in its small triumphs, real in its compromises and understanding.