Agony In a Cave

The grotto's black maw beckoning in the gathering shadows, Creeping vines try to deny entry to the innocent. Abruptly the shock of fetid air assailed my senses And, helpless, unable to retreat, I draw near. What is this force drawing my feet forward Into the blackness of an unknown hell ? While fingers on my neck turn my blood to ice.. Whispers urge the need for haste…the time is now. What brushes against my cheek? Step forward… The mire beneath my feet is sucking me down. Evil grabbing my hand.. I have so will or voice. I can not see, but feel the abyss approaching. Thrashing ,screaming, begging, I try to find the light. Only seconds remaining, my heart will surely burst with fright. My hands find purchase; I grasp with my last ounce of strength.. The demons prying at my fingers, laughing.. laughing. I suddenly awake to find the fire has burned low, My tent collapsed around my head. Drenched with sweat..I manage to crawl from my cave. Trying to believe I am safe.. …… Perhaps it was only the ghosts of campers past. For Deb's "wicked" contest.