The Curse

On a full moon’s night, my baby wakes

Eyes wide, on her face shines fear

I pull her into my arms, rock her from side to side

Her tiny palms clench into tight fists

Fear grips her from head to toe

Teeth bared, she challenges her foe

Do not come for her, oh curse long forgotten

She is but a child, innocent, but not forgiven

On a full moon’s night, my baby wakes

Eyes wide, on her face shines fear

Oh elders, have mercy on this little one

No part in the bloodshed she played

Silently I pray, hugging her to my chest

Eyes closed, I feel her change

Skin turns to fur, hands to paws

With a final howl, she leaps from my arms

On a full moon’s night, my baby wakes

Eyes wide, on her face shines fear

At the door, she turns to face me

Fear ebbing, her eyes turn predatory

With a final bow, she runs out

into the darkness, answering the call of her true friend

Her form reduces to a silhouette

I blink, and she’s gone.

On a full moon’s night, my baby wakes

Eyes wide, on her face shines fear

Come morning, I know she’ll return

But in what state, makes me concerned

Waiting by the door, I fall asleep

The Sun is bright, but I don’t open my eyes

When her gentle hands brush my cheek

I know she’s back, all mine.

On a full moon’s night, my baby wakes

Take my instead, I say to no avail