the sky darkened on the horizon, the black slowly creeping in my direction. it was beckoning for me, calling me closer, waiting to swallow me whole. i started to run, but once i hit the hard road, i broke. at my back i could feel the cold, numbing at the edges, but freezing me to the core. my body shook but i could not feel the gravel beneath my bare hands and feet. i stood, unsure if i was really standing. and i ran. small pebbles became lodged in the soles of my feet, raw and bleeding. but i didn't stop.

somewhere in the corner of my vision, a figure materialized from the gloom. his eyes gleaming a blood thirsty red and a dark leather gloved hand griping the base of a weapon. in my fear i stumbled, scraping my hands against the rough terrain. i could not see him anymore, and deciding it was best not to wait around i lurched forward and attempted to continue my escape. however, i did not see him as he approached me head on. i desperately tried to stop, but i could not get a grip on the stony ground. as i skidded toward him he lifted the barrel of the gun for a dead center aim. i turned my head away and covered my ears, but not in enough time to stop the cracking thunder and boom of the bullet being launched. i ducked, but not in time to get away. and as it came, tearing into my flesh, i doubled over. my body was forced backwards and i had not the time to scream. and even after he disappeared a dark malicious smile still hung in the air.

stammering backwards, i finally let the black overtake me.