THE WITNESS

Two youths, both burly

came out of a prostitute’s house

late into the night.

The glimmering

stars and full moon

woven out a pretty 

saree for the land.

But for them 

the thick solid

darkness would have

gulped the land

like a python swallowing its victim.

The youths, both sturdy

were walking ahead

in an elevated mood

both cracking wits.

Comfortably seated in a

chair close to the window sills

with curiosity shining in my eyes.

I was watching

them walk the talk.

In an unexpected moment

like a bolt from the blue

each lost his temper

and their pent up emotions burst out

and one of them dared to

slap the other on his cheeks.

All hell broke loose and with the speed of

lightning the other youth took out his dagger

and in a fit of fury  

thrust his weapon

on the other  

several times forcing the victim

fall on the floor.

He thru the dagger away

and melted

into the thin air?

Whether I alone

was the mute witness to the tragedy?

No idea, I couldn’t

sleep that night and

the nights after.

The tragic event

continue s to haunt me

even after months.