Bone white mist rises like cold breath
from the dying earth;
a thin spectral veil,
it floats and swirls
through skeletal branches
that stab into her memories
and rip the fabric,
dragging her back.
Shadows swarm through her mind;
black images like ravens
with razored wings and tearing talons.
They swoop down in violent flight,
shrieking a chorus of accusation.
She must lift up her face
against the blaring assault
and keep moving forward.