Rome

In battles hymn, raise your shield, Sharpen metals sword. All hail bow low unto Rome, Be blinded by opulence's glitter, And greed’s excess Salves feel her golden sandles, Upon bare skins flesh. Shackles hand cuffs, bind generations, Under whips task masters. Architectural thieves, swallowing, Cultures as the serpent gorging itself. On it's twisted belly the beast, Encircles it's prey. At blades sharp edged point, the innocent Lie slain, In histories dust humanity bleeds. Crimson skies light Cesar's horizon, As thousands gather in the Colosseum. The gladiator stands alone, facing madness's Throne Awaiting death's final release from bondage. A simple thumbs motion, Down meaning liberation, Up for another soul taken. Behold blood sports ultimate challenge, To live or die by strength and valor. Fates twisted sense of humor, Laughs at him behind justice's, Blackened curtain. Mocking the crowds lustful, Calls of encouragements. Sacrifices altar burns brightly, Upon the false Gods alabaster statue. Patiently waiting veracity’s venom, Ambitions royal descriptors feasting, At harvests festive table. The warrior faces reflections honored soul, And behind them destiny's predator stalks, Those soon to fall it's victim. To a coiled cobra poised to strike, Decadence audience claimers at fevers pitch, Adrenaline rush, excelling the Combatants deadliest game. Immoralities remembrances, Or defeats cowardly shame. Devastation final reckoning To the victor goes spoils waste, For the dead remains emptiness. Champions hero kneels before, The emperor's mighty power. An evergreen crown of laurel leaves, His treasures only gift. Freedoms mercy to live another day, Beyond the arenas iron gates. BY: CHERYL ANNA DUNN