Part 9 | The Raccoon

Downtown.  Basks in the glow of a setting sun
Buildings stand tall.  Casting shadows on concrete streets
Set on a small hill.  An old track
Two cars.  Orange and black
Ascend.  Descend.  Repeat
Forever.  Trapped on the same path
The Angel’s Flight

Tonight.  Track remains still.  Cars.  Unmoving
I climb.  To the top of the railway
Mechanic.  Works tirelessly.  Frantically.  In the dark of night
I shine a light.  Onto a battered engine
Provide him a hand
In no time.  Train fires up. Roaring
Continuing a destined journey
To nowhere

I ride.  Alone.  The night’s sole passenger
Sitting on conductor’s seat.  A hat
Starting to move.  Playfully.  And then
Mist.  Pouring out from beneath the brim
Mist grows.  Hat levitates
Grey tail.  Ringed black
Black paws.  Furred grey body
Eyes.  Masked in black
Hat.  Resting on mischievous face
The Racoon

He speaks

“My train.  Broken for an age.  Running again
And you.  Careless one.  Lending your hand
I offer you my thanks
Only three totems remain 
Soon you will be gifted with your own guardian spirit
And begin your long awaited journey
Go now.   Careless one
Venture to the middle of town.  Our famed Museum of Art
By night.  Street lamps form a jungle of light
Seek out my sister.  The Monkey”