Defeating the Darkness within

[Frisk E. Coyote]

Jack mulled this conversation over, having kept silent the entire time. He was the youngest there, the quietest, and understood the least, but he was by no means slow, or stupid. He thought about what earth represented; reliability and a great sense of protectiveness. What did it mean? Did it mean he could be relied on? Did it mean he would be protected by the crystal, or would he have to use the crystal to protect others? He didn't know if he had what it takes to save others, and he didn't know if he was that selfless. He had always loved superheroes, and always wanted to be like them- protectors, defenders of the weak and innocent. But he wasn't a hero. He wasn't even a villain. He was the helpless victim, and it made him feel insignificant and weak.

Now the darkness was in his thoughts. He never thought of it as evil, as his entire life was spent hiding in the dark. The dark was safe, quiet, and peaceful. It was as calm as a moonless night, and it hid him from the light that his father's shadow was cast in. If darkness to him was a safe haven rather than something to fear or be wary of, what should earth be to him? Should he rely on his powers and just let it take over? Should he trust this power, or should he try to give it away to someone who would definitely be more worthy of it than he?

In the end, he found it hadr to think on an empty stomach. He was a skinny runt with very strong bones, but he was indeed half-malnourished. He'd have to eat and build up his strength if he wanted to fit in here... now if only he could find the courage in himself to step forward. In the end, he waited for everyone else to go ahead before joining them to eat.