I Followed

by C.B. Jerman

Slowly I walked through a meadow

there was life as far as eyes see

to my surprise the sun's dim slow rise

was blackened by clouds and a breeze.

I stood still and gazed at the sky

a smile had crept to my lips

for I saw there'd be rain

and lightning and wind:

the quivering leaves and the silence of beasts;

to witness the power and brilliance and awe

and to see the dark maelstrom of chaos erupt

made me shiver and look on with glee.

Just a short moment later a bright flash of light

then a booming a short minute later;

I moved forward then

and a flash and a crack and a flame had erupted near me.

The splinters blew out in directions

as far as my eyes could see

I saw I was safe and then moved with a pace--

deliberate and careful and braced myself

for the heat of the flames

and when there was none I was filled with wonder

and a terrible fear and cold longing.

For her smile and her touch and the red of her blush

and I knew that the flame was then spreading

my hand was engulfed but I did not feel pain--

just amused as I turned into embers.

I felt happy and sad, but--to be honest--glad

that my journey was finally ending.

I was gone far too long

I heard my siren's song

and I followed until I was nothing.