A Willing Sacrifice

This forest is old, dark … seductive.

The trees have witnessed much and they hold many secrets.

No wind blows, nothing here gives opportunity for movement.

There is a chilling silence that settles into my bones.

Footsteps disappear, my very breath is stolen … my mind consumed.

Through the fog, I see the Gathering

Hooded forms

My heart has jumped into my throat, I struggle to swallow

A twig snaps under my foot, the hooded forms turn

They have seen me, they have risen!

I changed my mind, I changed my mind

What once was willingness has been replaced.

Fear. This is fear.

Before I turn to run, I risk one more look

The Gathering is gone

I have no sense of direction, I have lost my place

This forest is old, dark … seductive.

The trees have witnessed much and they hold many secrets.

Tonight, I will give up my own secrets.

Tonight, I will give up my life.

Reviews

[Chris]

This one really sucked me in, which is tough to do with a short piece. Very nice work, and leaves me at the end really thinking about what exactly might have led up to that chilling final statement. Great stuff!

[blackbird]

Thanks, Chris! I might explore this story a little more and see where it leads. :)

[RileyRedding]

This piece was riddled with beautifully haunting imagery.
It leaves one wanting more, but the simplicity in which you convey such powerful emotion is a force to be reckoned with.

[blackbird]

Seriously humbling praise. Thank you, Sir