Muse

I see her in my dreams.
A fleeting shadow, leaving heavenscented black rose petals in her wake. Medusa strains of midnight hair flowing past her hips, and I notice they never move in the same direction the wind is blowing. Her dress seems to join with the darkness, there is no definite end.
She makes plants wither where she walks, but her hands and lips bring life where she blesses.
The moment I see her I know.
All I need is one kiss from her to be alive. But she's just out of reach. I try to call out to her, but her name eludes me. She is on one knee, bringing a faded flower to full bloom. I step forward to see, and a twig snaps underfoot.
Her head snaps towards me. I see a glimmer of blood running from her mouth. Her eyes shine like a cat's in the dark.
We stand, frozen for a while. Then she straightens up.
"What is it that brought you here?"
Her voice is like velvet, wrapping around me and echoing in my head. I realize her lips have not moved.
I hesitate. I knew the answer, but I was afraid to say. I open my mouth to answer.
And I awake.


I run my hand through my hair and sigh.
"Not tonight...."
But I know I'll see her again.