A sentiment, a melody
a chance remark
and from his long slumber
the Beast rises within
claws extended, fangs bared,
crouched and ready
to tear innocent throats in close confines.
I run
chasing the Beast
its snarling voice mocking my pursuit
fists clenched, jaw tight,
eyes fixed on the darkness
tracking it, following it
Terrified.
You came with me
on the hunt, the chase,
unknowing of the danger
willing to help
not knowing how or why
but giving me a bystander to protect
marking return paths.
I found the Beast
laughing, daring
he tried to turn on you, but I stopped him
before you knew or suspected
razor teeth
ripping my arm.
With this tender bait
internal iron snaps!
The Beast is caught again
cage covered in darkness
tucked away in the cellar
that I need not see his face reflected –
and never again
will you know of him
or, by your gentleness, free him.