The Clearing

Linda Lee Ruzicka

As I stumble down the twisted path
branches reach out to rake my skin;
clutch me to impede my progress
while the wind whispers my name

     It mocks me…….

The full moon is behind the clouds,
it's impossible to see clearly
what pitfalls lie before me
and the hidden dangers beside me

      Something watches me…….

Finally, the clearing, with trees long dead
I burst through, gasping, frantic for air
the ebony wolf stretches, slowly advances
His tongue lolls over sharp white teeth

     He reaches me………  

PAIN.. white hot agony, oh the torment!
it rips through my body without mercy
as bones are wrecked and tendons stretch,
everything is as red as the blood moon

     I cannot endure………….

I collapse into a heap of kaleidoscope colors
as I feel his fetid breath on my face,
I open my eyes into the bright night
his dark muzzle touches my silver one

     I am changed…….

Oh, my mate…….my love