I was afraid of the dark,
Of what lurked in the shadows
But something compelled me
To venture out and chase answers...
Follow the shapes outside my window--
Quietly, holding my breath
Light steps, the gentle trod of dainty feet
And I'm more scared
Of being caught...
But I have to know.
The glow of lanterns pass
And the forest's shadow lingers
Drapes itself over my eyes--
Shapes blend to bark and leaf--
The panicked thought
Of losing my way,
And I fear I won't make it back
But I had to know.
What secret did these shapes share
Here in the dark of the night
Away from the city lights aglow;
Here, where dangers prowled
And we were nothing but prey--
Or was it all a lie...
A fable meant to cage us in?
The silence of the stalking
Scares me most...
But I need to know.
Crackle,
The sound of footsteps
Crunchy atop fallen leaves
Heavy and meancing behind me--
A predator enjoying my scent?
Bravery comes at odd times;
Should I be afraid to scream,
But I can't feel the fear,
I only see shadows,
Shapes before me disappear...
And now I know.