Ecstasis

The skies were covered with velvet as if it was bathed in fine wine, below was an area with absolute desolation; ashes and rubble flowing through the wind covering the sun from above. I wander and stood, not knowing how I ended up in this place; all I know is that I need to find my way out.

On my way to find an exit, I saw a silhouette resembling a man, sitting alone on a cranky old wooden chair between two demolished buildings in the vicinity. Judging from his appearance, I can say he's an enemy, not a friend. Wearing a scarf to hide his face, and rough coat with We all have a depiction of what a bad guy or a good guy is, subjective comparison of what is and what is not.

I still have yet to confirm if my hunches are right; either way, I need a companion in this god-forsaken place.

"One step closer and I'll hack you to pieces." The figure said as I was heading towards him.

"Come on; I was just-" I was interrupted as he swung he sword into my direction with killing intent in his eyes.

"This place is already shattered from the core, turn away, and don't disturb its peace." He said, I was surprised that I was one distance away from death, and my escape is just behind him as I caught a glimpse of light.

That must be a good sign.

I must defeat this guy.

I smirked, "I got to this place for a reason, aye." Much to my surprise, a sword lays down flat on the ground beside me. "This place amazes me," I murmured.

After consecutive provocations, we made the area a battleground with every dance of our swords, making him a much more formidable foe. I admit inside myself that I'm in the verge of defeat, with his aura so dark that it slowly creeps inside my soul to devour me.

"WHERE DID YOU COME FROM?" I asked frantically but to no response, only me, barely parrying his every swing with my blade.

I can't seem to see an opening so that I can deal with the killing blow, he's like a mirror of me, reflecting and always knowing what move I'll make.

I know to myself I'm screwed, as my blade shattered with his powerful strike, leaving me fallen on the ground, barehanded.

Is this death itself? Is it over? Nevertheless, it doesn't matter anymore. I'm contented to make this place my final resting place. I closed my eyes, expecting for the final plunge of his blade right through my heart.

I waited for a couple of seconds to meet my ancestors in the afterlife, but, nothing happened. I was confused so I opened my eyes and there I saw him removing his scarf, showing his dreadful smile, and his cold eyes.

"It's not time yet, boy." He said, "What lies beyond is beyond your comprehension. When the time comes, I shall be the one who'll escort you."

I understood when I saw his face, the sense of clarity that I found in this mysterious place was worth the price of my existence. I smiled in relief, and I can feel the rays of sunshine fall before my face.

And so, I woke up to reality with a gun pointed in my head saying, "I guess, not today."

-Marcmire.