i. the first time she sees her
they’re aiming for the same mortal.
frail, weak, he is easily forgettable -
but she. pale and proud
the glee in her eyes
is unmistakable.

ii. in their part of the world,
no one has forgotten the power
of womanhood. mortal, gods
both are the same. both cringe
before them, queens of the dark.

iii. she has never understood
why some of her devotees love her so.
but drowning in poison kisses, she
thinks she finally understands
the draw that nightmares have.

iv. death slithers. nightmares fly.
together -
- oh, together,
they rule the world.