LJ Idol, Home Game, Week 24: “Don’t Shoot the Messenger”

I stand on the smoky field, surveying his unexplained
Treachery, to behold bodies rent and ruined, the
Sweet smell of decay and rot assaulting my senses.

Nowhere to be seen are the decorated generals
Of this battle - heads violently separated from
Torsos, so all are equal unto Death.

My black steed snorts and stomps his hooves,
Yearning to move forward to unblemished territory.

Famine, War, Conquest, and Death await our eventual arrival
As I raise my sword skyward and murmur a prayer for
Unappreciated soldiers, who blindly follow commands from
Leaders, and give their all with steel in their hands and hearts,
Tasked with defense and dedication to king and country.