That enforced embrace Drew us together Her pale arms folding Around my neck I close-cradled her

I’m rice-paper Before a rainstorm Meadow blessed Beauty bound But time tied

Stirred by early light Dream amnesia melts Me back from half-life My arm lies coldly Where it once circled

With pious intent She sought the penance Confession could grant Her sins for sackcloth Seemed a fair exchange

The sanctuary of His morning ritual Was breached by a panic A terror of not knowing A faulty neural pathway

Tainted hands covering his face Asterion the monster Captive of the labyrinth Mourned the bloody tribute Devastated at his feet

Just before waking A woman in black Gently took my hand In a kindly way As I crossed a road