I found a child crying, alone. He was having a panic attack. His spirit was unmoored. And I knew in my heart. . . the last thing he needed — or wanted — was this strange, woodsy wildman crouching next to him.

So, I did what I could: I took the form of a big cat. The moment he saw me, he—

[A pause, as the weight of his story belatedly sinks in. Vyng has never given himself the chance to sit with it, let alone say it out loud. He lets out a slow breath and softly says:]

He didn't hesitate. He pulled me into his arms. And held on tight, until the panic started to subside.