Even though I have no idea about the universe/reality in which this is set, I really like the situation and the drama of the situation. It took me a bit to connect the first statement to the narrative, but I think it is said by the one in bed, thinking the shadow is a friend.

Correct. This is a slice of my longest-standing project, presented in an unusual way. Needless to say, there was no room for explanation.

Intriguing! The Creature is someone he knows but has never seen in this form. Cool!

The shadow cringing from him plucks at our heartstrings. Screams vulnerability.

The word “namalian” threw me for a moment but I got the gist of what you were saying.