I remember the night the master’s eyes glazed over
suddenly someone else was staring from his face
a stranger driven by a mindless purpose
to vanquish me utterly and leave not a trace
I still feel the blows he dealt me with his fists
the kicks he launched at my crouching form
as I cowered helpless and fearful in the corner
hands held in front to ward off the storm
When the withering attack subsided
and the light crept back into his eyes
I rose battered bruised and beaten
yet stronger for I knew I’d survived
When I at last become the master
and hold the fate of others in my hands
may I spite the monster inside me
resist his craven and cowardly commands