Xylon, setting down the cup of tea, turned his attention to the children.
"Yes?" he prompted, inviting them to articulate their thoughts.
"Your face... it's different," Lucas remarked, his words reflecting the unfiltered honesty of a child's perception.
Mia nodded in agreement, her gaze fixed on Xylon's features with an innocent fascination.
Willy and Elara exchanged a scared glance, then quickly attempted to stifle any further conversation from their children.
Elara spoke with a forced cheerfulness, "Lucas, Mia, let's not bother our guest with such comments. We're grateful he found shelter here tonight."
Willy added, "Yes, we should focus on the warmth and safety this cabin provides during the storm. Let's enjoy our tea together."
Mia's innocent curiosity broke through the attempted redirection.
Her eyes held a mix of wonder and hesitation as she gathered the courage to voice her request, "Can I... can I touch your face?"