Mirage at cusp of darkness

Dry leaves,

drenched in a patch of mud,

deserted forest,

birds squeaking,

 legs lolling in quest of destination,

yearning for the lone wooden ship,

growing small and disappearing in distance,

 flowing in the still water,

silent glances of travelers,

 Pain,

defeat,

dim hope,

leaving present memory behind,

vision of opening eyes to a new world,

wait is longer,

chased by batons and arms,

no dignity left perhaps,

moon losing its sheen,

eruption of darkness,

a mirage at cusp of darkness.