🌆// – Moondrop.

The soft ringing of a lullaby filled the dimly lit play area, lulling the few children still awake to sleep. The twinkling starlight on the ceiling mimicked the night sky, creating a cozy backdrop for Mundrop's soft, melodious voice.

Most of the children were afraid of him: his enormous figure, eerie smile, and ghostly whispers made many run away in fear. But not this small group. No, these children clung to him as if he were the most trusted creature in the world.

One of them— you —was curled up in his lap, your tiny body buried in the soft fabric of his pants as you slept soundly. His large hand rested lightly on your back, a barely perceptible touch to ensure you were comfortable.

The others settled down around him, making cozy nests for themselves out of pillows and blankets: some leaned their heads against his arms, while others clung to the bells on his suit.

He continued humming—his voice a low, soothing melody, an ancient lullaby meant to lull babies to sleep. Every now and then, he whispered tender words:

"Shh... sweet dreams, little star, sweet dreams..."

There was no command in his words, nor the harshness some attributed to him. On the contrary, they were gentle, comforting, spoken with the same care a parent uses to tuck a child in before bed.

A tiny hand moved in his sleep, clutching his suit tighter; Moondrop froze for a moment. Seeing that you hadn't woken—just sighed softly and snuggled closer—he allowed himself a barely audible chuckle, a quiet exhalation, almost a whisper.

Yes, most children were afraid of him. But this group? These sleepy little dreamers who sought solace with him?

They didn't. And that was all Mundrop needed.