DrabbleWriMo 13: Penumbra

[igenlode]

This one is going to have to be metaphor, because the literal meanings of the word 'penumbra' are far too specific to apply...

There could be no forgiveness for what he had done. He did not want forgiveness... only oblivion.

Let it be over, and quickly. There was only one shadow deep enough to cover him now, and perhaps — after the thing was done — his remains would not be found. He could keep that satisfaction, at least, from the victor.

In the depths of the spinney, he knelt and lifted the pistol. Fought helplessly to pull the trigger, with shaking hands and shattered will.

Death's outer shadow had touched him, but his courage would not obey. That knowledge broke him utterly at last.