The Art of War

A craving to conquer, a hunger for war Ships set sail, to foreign soil Across dark seas onto treacherous shores Archer’s drawback their bows, Fiery arrows climb high, Flying with fury, they darken the sky. The awful odor of pure detest running through their veins Projectiles sores then pour like horror’s heated rains Golden Chariots carry both, man and beast, Corpses fall And vultures feast, Upon their flesh, gnawing on their bones What lays ahead it is unknown. Night has fallen and they retreat, no victory, and no defeat Surrounding blazing camp fires they celebrate, Drunken songs, mourn fallen mates Reeking of sulfur, comes morning dew They suit for battle, Combat ensues Gallant and fearless, they stand with pride, Shoulder to shoulder, side by side. Mesmerized by the enchanted sounds The squawking of crows, their heart’s that pound The sun beams down Their armor of silver, reflecting light Their faces are raw, no sign of fright Bold bronze shields and, Sharpened spears Salted sweat trickling down, they have no fear. They draw their swords, they stand their ground. It echoes NOW! !!! That dreaded sound. Metal on metal, Daggers ripping through skin, All attack, the battle begins Blades penetrate through tissue and bone The horrific uttering of shrieks and moans Mutilated bodies All are pierced, Rivers of blood. All is spilt The ghastly stench of carcasses, rest at their feet The sounds of skeletons buckling underneath. Soldiers collapsing all around, Thunderous, it shacks the land Great warriors, dying noble men “Forward!!!” They roar Javelins take flight, and lances thrust Onward they march, thirsting death From dawn to dusk Gaping wounds, detached limbs, and vengeful eyes They push ahead; they hold the lines, until all adversaries have met their demise. IN THE ART OF WAR Chiquita Baity