He was only a kid. Sometimes, it was easy to forget, since he was always so full of energy and certainty. But no one--no matter their age--deserved to go through the things Ezra had been put through.

That went for both the short- and long-term.

Ariadne stroked his hair gently. Comforting in all cultures, of course. But particularly meaningful for the Alastrians. "This place can be a lot to cope with, sometimes. But it's okay. I think."