Guardians

Guardians at the door I stood between two thin dogs,
blue breath connecting us three to Night
who drank Her jasmine tea, watching us through
a large round window. How could I have known
She watched us then?

The curtains were magenta
and I could not see beyond the glass. I shook with
chill but the dogs were steady staring at nothing,
while poised for an intruder who would not come.

By morning we were thirsty, put our faces in a silver river
and lapped our own reflections. They did not recognize
themselves. Did they?

A swimmer with a strong stroke made our heads turn at once.
There was enough time for a thin gray bird to walk behind us.
Tricked, we began to howl
the forest now taunting and mocking.

Pain shown in our eyes
because we began to whimper
and lick each other. I know. I know.

We stood quietly while the souls of The Dead marched
one by one to the house of Night. Three old bearded men
said “What She has done to the cranes she will do to us!"

How could I tell my companions?

I did so with my laughter. Our happiness filled the sky
and I knew that She was watching over us from Her
kitchen window
sipping from Her starry cup.