The Ghost Came Out of the Lake

A red moon greeted me as I arrived at Eilean Donan Castle, late at dinner time, a heat wave wrecking zest of our intended peaceful nightly rest. It was late but I decided on a nocturnal swim. O blessed water, so calm, so cool, so placid. Suddenly I heard the crash of the waves, an echo, a forlorn ululation of sweet melodious tune. Alarmed I looked behind and saw a fog cover the lake. Foamy white lamb-like waves danced around me. The waves dragged me up on to the sandy beach. Behind me I saw a figure surrounded by a nebula, Swimming slowly towards the splendiferous shore. She came out all wet still wearing an old-fashioned gown. Both out of breath, we lay on the smooth sand. Above a red moon shone brightly that cloaked the stars. In the strange night we looked at each other and smiled. Soon we were embraced in a long lingering kiss. Ecstasy escalated rapidly, emotions running riot, Until the red moon descended behind Donan Castle. I turned back to her and saw her in the water Swimming into a swirling mist and disappear. Back at the castle I climbed up to my room. There hanging on the wall was a painting of her doom. Lady Murdina, Warrior of the Sea, drowned 1888. Seeing the painting and the date, I fainted. 7 January 2022 A Ghost Story Poetry Contest Sponsored by: Angela Tune