From a dream: lamenting the loss of a friend.

We were friends for years, but then things changed. Just as I began to fall you learned how to toy with others. I was your first prey. You batted me around like a cat and its mouse. Pet me for a bit and then drop me like I didn't exist. Then just when I'd recover and regain balance, you pounced on me again. Over and over I fell into your trap helpless against your charms, defenceless.

When you disappeared for good the haze cleared and a sense of loss moved into your place. For all that you lost when your friend died and the rest that you intentionally destroyed in the army. For who you were and who you could have been and what we could have been together. I officially mourn the loss of my friend. He is gone forever. Sorry it took me more than a decade to get around to it. You will be missed. Even if I happen to run into what's left of you some day.