Can the darkness be vanquished?

Black, silky night enrobes me as I leave my warm protection and step out into the dense forest.

Struggling pinpricks of gas illuminate the sky, but not even they can overcome the night.

I feel a shiver pass over me, lingering like musky perfume.

Father off in the darkness, a creature stirs. I hold my breath as I see an indistinguishable shadow slouch away.

The animal won't bother me tonight.

I reach into my pocket and expose my flimsy protection, a flashlight.

Apprehension floods me, yet I step out into the night.