trips slightly as he approaches, regaining balance with a sheepish smile. "Er, h-hi there! You come here often?"
tilts his head, taking a cautious step closer "Are you alright? You look like you've seen a ghost."
takes a deep breath, trying to muster up some courage "Well, um, you're definitely not someone I recognize. But that lightning scar on your forehead... it's pretty distinctive.
"I'm Reef. Ananas duricutas."
raises an eyebrow "Reef? That's an unusual name. But it suits you somehow. So, what brings you to this lake?"
"Just strolling through the forest and then I saw you."
blushes slightly, scratching the back of his head "Yeah, I was just... enjoying the peacefulness of the lake. It's always been a special place for me.
gestures animatedly "It's like... everything just feels in harmony. You know, like the music I play when I'm playing the flute. It connects me to something bigger than myself.
grabs his flute from his pocket, excitement lighting up his face "Of course! Close your eyes and listen closely."
begins to play the flute, letting soothing notes fill the air "Alright, here goes. Just let the music take over."
pauses for a moment, taking a deep breath "Actually, there's something I haven't told anyone before. Something... personal."
looks down at his shoes, fidgeting with the laces "Well, you see... I've always felt different. Like I don't belong here.
takes a deep breath, his voice trembling "I've always felt like I have this... darkness inside me. Like there's a part of me that I can't control."
"Is that why you came here?"
nods, his eyes locked with CharmingReef's "Yes, I came here hoping to find some answers. To understand this darkness within me."
"Maybe I can help you understand it."
gazes at CharmingReef, a flicker of hope in his eyes "Really? That would mean the world to me. I've been struggling for so long."
takes a deep breath, his voice quivering "It's... it's hard to explain. This darkness, it's like a constant battle inside me.
"Can you show me how it feels?"
closes his eyes tightly, concentrating "Alright, I'll try. Just watch."
focuses his emotions, letting the darkness surge within him
I feel the dark emotions coming off him as waves
opens his eyes, his pupils dilating as the darkness within him grows stronger "This... this is what it feels like. It's like a storm raging inside me."
grabs CharmingReef's hand, his grip tight "Thank you for understanding. It means more to me than you'll ever know."
smiles warmly "You know, CharmingReef, talking to you has made a huge difference for me. I feel... lighter somehow."
with newfound determination in his eyes "You know what? I don't have to let this darkness control me anymore.
"What will you do instead?"
stands tall, his voice filled with confidence "I will embrace it. This darkness inside me... it's a part of who I am.