It’s been a while since the last time I played. I look at my violin and caress its strings. I’m itching to play again. Music has been lacking to my life.

And if all goes awry like it seems to be, I might have to play soon. Might as well train a bit.

I pick up the instrument and the weight feels right in my hands. I pick up the bow, and it’s like electricity hums through my hands. It wants to go to the strings. The bow wants to play. I want to also.

I look around. I am alone. No harm to be doing. I can’t hurt anyone here. I put the bow on the strings and I start to play.

Music comes naturally, but so does it. My shadow starts to grow against the wall and I feel it’s glee. It is happy to finally be let out. To be independent. To rise on its own.

“Nobody here.” It says, almost a snake-like sound, hissing.

“Nobody you can hurt but me. And we both know you don’t want to do that.” I say while I continue playing.

I was afraid I would have lost in skill. But I see now I didn’t. That training was useless except it allows me to reacquaint with my shadow, that old and dangerous friend.