An Omen of Death

By Dominique Estioko of 11-Mercy

Illustration by Ana Lim

Life was well-lived and prosperous for the people:

Bubbles and suds floated along the guided stream in the morning,

Laughter and chatter flitted throughout the green fields during the afternoon,

While dancing and music filled in the rest of the evening.

One fateful day did change it all

When the fog shrouded the woods like a barrier of magic,

And the piercing echo of a cry

Washed over their town like a dark and unsettling omen.

Nothing but screams were heard

Until a more humane shriek replaced them.

Then they all knew

That Death had come and gone.

A mere introduction that simply was,

For the worst omen has yet to come.

One night of joyous celebration

Turned into one of bloodshed and fear.

The fog surrounded the woods once more,

And the unholy shrieks sounded,

But they did not cease.

Not until their underlying message was delivered.

Their visions grew dark,

And in a moment of shadow, everything was calm.

Their eyes opened to a vivid red,

And each one fell into their own chaos.

The morning peeked over the horizon, attempting to spread warmth and peace,

But it was only met with anguish.

From the stream which flowed crimson

Until the bloodstained gleam of their dead maniacal grins.

So when the fog thickens around the surrounding wood,

Drown out the thoughts of death and destruction,

For one can never know what may be concealed

When one hears the wails of a banshee.