An Essay Upon That Which Claws at Me

[Nectarine Sunset]

He's changed. He suits you much better than I.

Hand in hand intertwined, you two unite.

And yet I'd never bothered to ask why-

At least up 'til that rather bloody fight.

Hearing bones snap was music to my heart

considering I'd held that grudge for years;

in a moment, it tore itself apart

as I watched your sobbing and all your tears.

You begged. In that moment, I forgave you.

I think that you'll understand it one day.

Just like now, I did what I had to do;

it couldn't have been any other way.

Now that the grudge is settled, let it be;

I'd like to know you for the sake of me.

Do you remember when you looked so weak?

I do - and it was quite the sight to see.

Moments before, things had been awfully bleak,

and then it was you and Varrach and me.

That collar was quite cute, but it's gone now;

although that was the point of debt incurred.

I thought payback would be slow, but somehow

your presence led action which had then stirred.

And now we're here, your name upon my tongue

A recommendation to those in charge

of services rendered by those still young

who happen to seek names and stories large.

Do you still think of it? I wonder still.

Yet I won't ask - perhaps I never will.

Shall I compare thee to a winter's day?

Or perhaps a deal would suit you more-

Cards across the table, players astray

As they realize their game's become a bore.

Down the rabbit hole, an eternal dive

Was what you claimed to me upon that night.

But really, did you think I wouldn't thrive?

Your eyes upon me are a great delight.

Make your offers better, I pray you try;

We both know it'll never be enough,

For that would mean I'd have to say goodbye

To all I know in favor of the rough.

Your story pales when I look at mine.

Now listen close and hear just how I shine.

Am I not a beauty to behold now?

With wings upon the wind so fancy free-

my words are heeded, hearkened through the bough,

and with their rustle, I may truly be.

At eighteen, I sit amidst legends old,

yet talked to more than any of their kind;

my counsel taken straight into their fold,

I know that I'm the closest to their mind.

How many words dost thou must sling at me?

How many words until you tire still?

How many instances of giving up

will you find trying to shatter my will?

I will be glorious, I declare so-

and since I have, the world cannot say no.

I know my entrance down to the second.