The Darkness

I found myself lying on the ground, on a cold slab, then on wet grass. I walked to the corners of the Universe and bowed, prostrated thee times to the sky. Kissed the Earth, touched ground.

Two more weeks I spent only eating milk. Bathing in milk. _LA_ I shaved the body of all hair, trimmed back the nails, and scrubbed the skin until the milk turned pink.

For three days I closed the doors of the cave, fasted and drew silent. I was ready for her, the Swan of the North.

Within the temple all portals having been sealed, the perimeter is walked, touching the walls with my hands – where these things can not be accomplished and individual is designated to stand and watch, and guard against entry by foreign matter.

From this room a circle is made, and within this circle is scribed a sigil for the operation.

I am the light and the life of Her Love.

Using blood from my left hand, cut by a ceremonial knife, is mixed with the topknot cut from my head, and burnt. _FA_ The dance is commenced and sweat mixed with the earth. The walls reverberate with my breath, and my body. The body is dragged and beaten like a baton against a bell.

Running the Nerves through a series of scales, ratcheting up the mind, ready to fall at any time. The world is expelled in a fit of screams and curses, puking up words. Releasing the body the mind uncovered, I fall to the ground. Slowly the one is recovered and the body raised up. The costume and mask are removed. A prostration is made. The body is powdered white. An old hag chants.

She loves him.