When the Barguest comes

When the Barguest comes 

do not run for there is nowhere to run

do not hide for there is nowhere to hide. 

It will come in the night 

or in the darkest places of day

but it will come. 

You may have called on the Barguest

 even without knowing 

or it may have been sent for you 

either way it will find you.

It follows the scent of your soul  

and tracks your fear.

Even in your sleep it follows you 

turning your dreams into nightmares.

There can be no escape 

you may avoid it for a while 

but ultimately  

the Barguest will find you 

and when it does

stand firm 

look into its eyes  

bare the smell of its fetid breath 

and pray.

Do not show your fear

control your thoughts 

and if you are lucky 

it may let you keep your soul.