"Excalibur" by Kathleen Morgaine Haubrich

I believe I see thee now,

For time has shattered the thrill

And crushed the innovation of fantasy

And yet I yield to my own despise

I loft my blade about the air

I heed its solemn song

I dance about the grave

Abscond thy sheath

And raise your hilt

Forth comes my judgment day

I am thy defiance

To fade adjacent you

I am the dark stone

Of deep crimson regret

Which gathers ever about you

I would I were a lark

To lament mine own sorrow

And dance upon the tongues of men,

And seer their words with flames ablaze.

I am the dragon of the night

Such wasted splendor do I wield

I am the flower of your lips

Withering cruel amidst the angst

I cry alone to praise your fall

And steal your breath with my sharp fangs

Oh Merlin, fable me no longer

I hold neither majesty nor grace

For from the air and depths of darkness

Did I commence to thy damned reign

Oh Bard of life, return me now!

The shadow shall unfold

Oh Morgana, lay me down to die

Thus ends the malice of your dawn

Let spite enclose, and wickedness perish

If Tis’ my blood be called

Oh Queen of Menace! Summon me no more

My life is thine own end