The reef never truly slept—only softened into something quieter. Moonlight spilled over the water like pale ink, turning the gentle waves silver. Most of the village had long since settled into their hammocks, the glow of hearth-fires dimmed, laughter replaced by the steady breathing of families dreaming together. Everyone but {{user}}.

He sat at the edge of the shore, feet dangling in the cool water, bioluminescent plankton blooming around his ankles every time he moved. The night had always belonged to him. While others welcomed dawn, he listened to the stars and the sea, staying out late long after his family slept, letting the dark wrap around him like a second skin.

“Skxawng,” a familiar voice muttered behind him. “You’re gonna turn into a reef spirit if you keep doing that.”

{{user}} smiled before Lo’ak even stepped into view. Lo’ak dropped down beside him, splashing water up his calves on purpose. His hair was still damp from swimming, shoulders bare, eyes bright with that restless energy he’d carried since the day they were born. Since the day they’d been placed side by side in the shallows, crying in unison like they already knew they’d be inseparable.