Charlie and Mayra decided that Gran needed to know about what to expect when Hamish's birthday came around. Inspector Erle, of course, was already aware of the possibilities and concerns.
Erle: Charlie, we have nothing to fear right now. There's been no sign of your uncle all these years. I think he knows better than to show his face in Mountain Lake again! Hamish will be fine. We'll see to it.
Gran: Mayra, I suspected something along these lines! I just knew the Stalkers were trouble. But Charlie's a fine young man, and I love Hamish to pieces! So we'll just have to do what needs to be done. That's just life, honey!
Gran: Now, Erle dear, I know we got a little carried away lately, but we need to put that nonsense behind us and concentrate on the young people. You must see that, surely?
The transition soon began.
And Hamish entered the next stage of his life!
A new wardrobe for a new boy.
Hamish played with his favorite toy, Bot the Bear.
But he was soon biting Bot on the neck!
That didn't surprise his family, but did make them all a little uneasy.
Charlie: Come to Daddy, Hamish. Don't be afraid! I'm here for you.
Charlie: You can do it, son! Trust me.
And Hamish did.
_____
Some time later, Hamish's grandparents grew restless in their graves. They once again walked the grounds of their ancestral home.
While elsewhere, a new resident moved into Mountain Lake. Nobody saw him arrive.
He'd quietly bought the old abandoned house near the home of Cexavu the Alien.
Keeping a low profile, but hoping to hear any local rumors, the stranger visited the village laundromat. He tugged his cap lower on his head though--as if worried that someone might indeed recognize him. But who would dare approach a scruffy looking fellow like him?
No one did. He was alone, with only the Mountain Lake news and social interest stories for company. He wasn't concerned. He was a patient man. There was plenty of time to put his plans into action.
Erle: Charlie, we have nothing to fear right now. There's been no sign of your uncle all these years. I think he knows better than to show his face in Mountain Lake again! Hamish will be fine. We'll see to it.
Erle: No, Granesa Caran! I do NOT see that!
Mayra: You ready, Charlie? Let's see who our little Stalker son really is. Human ... or Diaemus.
_____
The family gathered in celebration to see Hamish age up to toddler. They would accept him, no matter what!Some time later, Hamish's grandparents grew restless in their graves. They once again walked the grounds of their ancestral home.
