She softly intones the sacred words
Hunger-sharpened eyes appraising
Her fattened sunset-ritual sacrifice
Promising healing in long tradition
Of all obsidian-bladed priestesses
Wrist-deep in my chest to remove
All fear and fervor and to reassure
That the sun will never again falter
Beaded blouse and quetzal headdress
Making mockery of my slovenly devotion
Dying light glinting on red-painted skin
Soot-smeared hair flying in holy ecstasy
She dances barefoot in my lifeblood
The only worship I am worthy to offer