Chalice of Night Ceremony

Resting inside a brass cauldron of craven curiosity Lay a horror unexpected to anyone who peered, A chalice of old silver containing a rotting hand Surrounded by gold coins and ivory contraband Stashed purloined treasure of one who steered, An evil buccaneer known for murderous ferocity. They who dared look fell victim to similar atrocity Parts of their bodies protected more stolen loot, When they no longer were trusted with treasures Be it small tokens of bronze or gold measures, More than one was peg-legged, missing hand or foot There was no escaping this tyrannical monstrosity. Dreaded they the feared Chalice of Night Ceremony, Praying that parts of their body are not forfeited For some minor infraction they had committed Which no longer could be rationally defended, And no paid substitute be willingly counterfeited Though many a pirate pleaded a godly testimony. Submitted to "Second Chance" Poetry Contest Sponsored by Sotto Poet N/A written January 19, 2022 especially for "Chalice of the Night" Poetry Contest sponsored by Chatelle Anne Cooke