While the Watcher story unfolded, Ariel and his mother deepened their bond.
Four centuries of separation couldn't be healed overnight. But slowly, gently, they built something new.
Amihan shared stories of Ariel's childhood—things he'd been too young to remember. His first shift. His favorite foods. The way he'd chase butterflies in dog form for hours.
"I didn't know any of that," Ariel marveled.
"Because I wasn't there to tell you. I'm sorry."
"You're here now. That's what matters."
They took walks together through Dumaguete—mother and son, finally able to be seen. Amihan marveled at the community her son had found.
"You built this," she said. "You and Glad."
"We built it together. All of us."
"Still. You chose love over fear. That's rare."
Ariel squeezed her hand. "I learned it somewhere."
Amihan's eyes filled with tears.
Healing.
Slowly.
Certainly.