It was a damp night, the night creating a dark blanket against the stars and moon. My father lay moribund just as he’s been for the past hour. Each breath more weaker than the last.

Does he see mom? Maybe that’ll bring solace to his pain. The end ever so bleak cracked my belief as a rattling sound emits from my father.

“Doctor, come quickly, Doctor” I knew i shouldn’t have called for him. Knew it was futile, that he wouldn’t be able to do anything. Yet I left fear get to my heart as it gripped like a vice

Standing I turn on my heel, a sudden coldness billowing through the room. A gasp ripping past my lips eyes widening. A dark figure stood against the shadows, a whispery cloak adorning her shoulders

Stepping back I look her up and down. I wasn’t scared? I don’t think I was scared. The fear of loosing my father trumped whatever was standing before me, quiet and unnerving.

“What are you?” My voice came out less shaky than expected, but my heart told a different story. Can she hear my heart? I wouldn’t expect anything less if she could. Those eyes, hidden behind the deer skull tell a story of burden. Maybe even pain?

“I’m the one who man fears” her voice came out gravely. I watched as she stepped forward, I couldn’t step back. Didn’t know if it was from the shock of it all or maybe the odd sense of comfort I felt.

“I’m the one you call…death.” The mention of death made my heart beat, as if it was a trapped bird inside my ribs. “You killed him” I whispered, my hand touching my lips involuntarily.

“No. Life is an hour glass, my lady.” She began to circle around me, a biting chill following after her every step. “It inevitably runs out, And everyone’s amount of sand is different, this man’s sand is gone.” I turned along with her not wanting her out of my sight.

“I don’t understand. Then what? You’re a demon that takes souls?”