Precedent

Helming the room 

Masked in black lace;

Ashen brick and specks of candlelight.

Quieting at her gavel.

At snapping fingers 

She stands slender, raven, and bare armed.

And I long

Like black seeds stuck in gums, 

Like wax dripped slowly on paper.

I rouse

Inky, slate rising,

So sanguine lipped and proud,

The staunch judge orders

And I serve.

© Malcolm Bare, 2015

Masked Woman
Photo from Pinterest
Masquerade by Belina Starscream