The group of friends decided to explore
the mountain near where they lived
shear sides at its base a barren expanse
a narrow trail extended half way up
that terminated at holes in the rock face
intrigued had to search this place!
Ignoring all the warnings of the elders
who kept away from this rock
knew it was haunted by ancient beings
watched the group slowly ascend
fearlessly focused on their exploration
to seek an unknown abomination!
Half a day later arrived at the mountain
large boulders and bones lay strewn
at its base not a sight they wanted to see
a flowing river halted their progress
until a rotting tree trunk came into view
already tiring their impatience grew!
Together dragged the tree to make a bridge
thankfully it reached over the small gap
tiring decided to camp there for the night
though had little sleep sounds close by
kept them awake fearing it was a wild beast
upon their flesh wanting to feast!
As dawn broke set off up the twisty path
that crumbled at each slow step
anxiety began to emerge as the entrance
became within a few yards ahead
then their leader was able to peer inside
entering with a very cautious stride!
Switched on the torch upon his forehead
venturing into the black interior
taking his first look at the forbidden cave
the rest followed like lost sheep
they switched on their piercing headlights
making them feel like neophytes!
Where few dared to venture in centuries
here gathered a defying band
curiosity and adventure overriding fear
more bones scattered about
moving further in every sound amplified
thinking their presence justified!
A joint decision was made to go in deeper
the entrance was out of sight
ahead looked ominous but they went on
in single file as the passageways
became claustrophobic as they narrowed
their progress rapidly slowed!
Occasional scratching made them jumpy
but it began to increase
ten minutes later they came to a chamber
there the remains of bodies
were strewn and the smell of decay strong
was this a nest they walked in on?
Their lights picked out shapes which moved
quickly clinging to the walls
and above a sticky goo dropped on them
turning to exit their path blocked
by a large thin white creature with no eyes
with intent on them to brutalize!
Their screams were absorbed by the rock
the elders stood knowing they were dead!
The Foureyed Poet.