Bryan Banks
YYY
He felt compelled to visit the Maker,
His mind troubled by the ancient wisdoms.
The Maker at his forge stirred latent embers,
Thrust in the metal with his hardened hands.
He would, as ordered, produce the sharp weapon,
Temper point and edge to seek out foes,
Give swift death to the deserving tyrant,
Eliminate the monster that preys on mortal man.
A tall order, yes, but not impossible
In such a world of primary tales.
He watched impassively the bright brand appear
Moulded to fit the hand of destiny.
He felt the heat of satisfaction applying the power
That comes from ownership of power itself.
The Maker, aware of his masterpiece creating,
Narrowed his eyes at the running flames.
Establishing their story along its shaft,
Ensuring their part in its future tale,
While the hero, impatient of having,
Saw only the gleaming steel.
Picture the Maker’s alarm, as he glimpses
The subsequent misadventures:
The trivial cruelty, the mean spirit unatoned,
The sly barbarities born of delight
And of its ultimate victim
Surrendering his blood to the chill blade.
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