The Moon's Secret

In the dim light of the approaching full moon, Ace and Ash found themselves alone at the edge of Whispering Woods. The weight of recent events hung heavy between them, yet there was a sense of peace in this shared solitude.

Ace looked up at the sky, the moonlight casting a silver glow on his face. "Ash, I'm scared. This... thing inside me, it's like a constant battle."

Ash stepped closer, his eyes filled with empathy. "You don't have to fight it alone, Ace. We're in this together, remember?"

Ace turned to face him, vulnerability clear in his eyes. "What if I hurt someone? What if I hurt you?"

Ash reached out, gently cupping Ace's face in his hands. "You won't. I trust you, Ace. We'll find a way through this. Together."

For a moment, the world outside their little bubble seemed to fade away. Ash's touch was a grounding force, and Ace felt a flicker of hope amidst his turmoil. He leaned into the warmth of Ash's hand, allowing himself to draw strength from the unspoken promise in his friend's eyes.

"Thank you, Ash," Ace whispered, his voice barely audible. "For believing in me."

Ash smiled softly, his thumb brushing lightly across Ace's cheek. "Always."