November.
Another abysmally beautiful day, with crystalline blue skies and the ever-present golden glow trying to seep into what remains of my spirit.

I can feel the desperate thirst of the maple trees as they shed their by-now-shrivelled and blackened leaves upon the cracked earth.

Is that why I am so distraught?

Seeking refuge inside, I turn up the stereo volume. The powerful gravelly voice of Johnette Napolitano resounds in my aching head. "And all the games I have to play, I got to give a lot of me away, but a part of us will never be for sale" - she is singing.

How I wish I could believe that!

I huddle tightly, pressing my knees to my chin as Kali walks, the ground trembling with Her heavy tread.

Having been indentured to the Dark Goddess was never easy though the rewards have been many. Is She coming to claim Her due? Am I to be sacrificed upon Her altar, as I have done to others in Her name?

I feel Her wrath surging through my veins, I am Her reluctant and rebellious slave. Will I surrender and unleash the Hounds?