Lament

I have cried over my loneliness, but I fear it’s better than the alternative.

Someone else has taken to wandering these silent halls.

Someone who moves in secret but leaves a lingering feeling of malice.

Even through my ruined nose, I can smell the rank odors of stale smoke and drink, unwashed clothing and filth.

I fear he looks for me.

He would ask something of me.

Even if I was inclined to show myself to him,

I doubt I could give him what he wants.

I cannot remember the simple ways of human interaction.

Far too much has changed.