I tremble, with fear.

I feel it close in, so near.

Knees locked, I stand and quiver beyond eyesight.

Falsely ready to fight.

Steely complexion shining, a faulty glint.

Hands appear loose, fingertips clenched.

Desperately holding to something perhaps not meant.

Careful to guard, but behind shield,

I await, ready to yield.

Knock it down, out of hand.

Knock me down, no longer can stand,

The fright of a battle lost.

But ready to pay the cost of surrender.

If I will be held tender.

And the beat drums seize,

The grounds shaking cease.

Solace in tentative peace.