Jason Weiser

It was so easy to stand, but opening his eyes from the strain, he saw that he was holding on to the tree.

It was done.

He had done it.

Vitasco had lifted a tree up by its roots.

Turning, his slack, awestricken jaw didn't match his mother's.

She was smiling.

He tossed the tree to the side and asked how.

How had she known that would happen?

She put her hand on his shoulder.

Now, my son, you are strong enough, the mother said.

Now you are worthy of your name, Vitasco.

Forget not the mother who has suckled you for thrice-seven years, but now that you are grown...

take care of her.

Yes, oh my gosh, yes, Vitasco said.

I will never doubt you again, and I see now how that would be difficult for you too, you know, doing this, so I'm very glad it's over.

What should I do now?

Go out into the world, my son, and get me a house, the mother said.

Oh, but Vitasco looked back to the cottage.

We have a house?

Son, the mother said, you don't help your child become an epic hero and then stay in the same house.