The night was soft, gentle, easily lulling people to slumber, And yet, a rumble came through the distance, The sound swelled, as a great tide before crashing into the shore, What may have been thunder took on something less welcome, That of a multitude of horsemen, all too familiar to those whose ears it touched,... Continue Reading →
The Children of Bilal, Complete
He stood on the roof’s edge, sweeping his gaze across the city. So many were sleeping peacefully elsewhere, but this place was alive with sounds of life. Street vendors were gaily calling out to those passing by, bright lights cast their colors across those searching for tonight’s pleasure, and over all of this were the... Continue Reading →
The Children of Bilal, Part Five
Irfaan gasped, his words emerging breathlessly. “Bilal, what is that?” The older bear looked as shocked as his companion. “I have no idea,” he stated, “it isn’t a ghost or a phantasm. However, it is also between us and the door. Isn’t there a window behind us?” “There is.” “Then we should be exiting through... Continue Reading →
The Children of Bilal, Part Four
Bilal gripped Irfaan by the shoulder and, with a warm smile, led the younger bear down a maze of alleys. Another tormented soul was pulling at the bear and he was pleased to see that his new friend was reacting to it. “Just remember,” Bilal stated, “try not to get lost in all the cries... Continue Reading →
The Children of Bilal, Part Two
There were so many nightmares drawing his attention, but Bilal focused on two brothers. Their dreams had become intertwined, tainted by another presence. They slept fitfully, any rest disrupted by whatever was preying upon them. Rather than sitting outside to avoid intruding on their home, Bilalslipped into the small apartment. The dwelling was one room... Continue Reading →