Axis and Orion ... an Immortals poem

If you are following the Immortals Series, you will know that the mountain, Arcanis, is the keeper of the secrets of the  Immortals of Valrou'hain. Since the mortals have begun their assault on that mountain, some of the elders of Valrou'hain are concerned, especially since the "sword of stars" is now to be seen in the aggressors' possession. However, the younger members of the Immortals, led by Orino, are of a mind to simply erase offending mortals. Can his father, Axis, make any of them see sense?


Of Axis' loins, Orino sighs and all who hear him quake:
"What trouble now from irritants who Cendua's waters slake?
I told Arcanis what would happen should he not beware,
and guard against the greedy ones who think it's brave to dare."

The Guardians nod, accepting of their Lord Orino's word.
Not one would risk e’en slight displeasure; every one has heard
the tales which stick like jubi gum to this elite's renown.
No crime is worse, to Valrou'hain, than wearing Gluttony's gown.

One being speaks with words aflame, his blue veins standing proud,
"Who is this youth, so short of tooth, who risks the blackened cloud?
Why do his feet still walk abroad beneath the noon day sun
and in his hand the star-forged sword? Come rally everyone!"

Much laughter greets his boldest speech, led by Orino's wave,
"What, Guardian? Shall we unleash Immortal powers to save
the whole of Valrou'hain itself from this one puny mortal?"
The red faced Guardian takes his seat, shamed by his leader's chortle.

The youthful Lord of Axis now appears before his son
and in his hand the purple grapes from which sweet juices run.
His wave encompasses the crowd, the grape juice soiling all
though none would dare to criticise the god all gods recall.

"What say you father? Shall Valrou'hain bow down to this threat?
(The tow-haired progeny of Adam, lest we e'er forget)
Or shall we pluck him like a feather from a peacock's tail
and dangle him upon a branch and listen to him wail?"

The smile upon his parents face is not without affection; 
no matter that his son displays a want of all perfection,
he shall not spare the rod and spoil this moment that hails rare
"The Sword of Stars has vanquished more than heads of mortal hair."

A hushed gasp grips the throng of Guardians as Orino’s brow is raised
"My father's beauty does belie the years which leave him dazed.
But pray, my source of wisdom, do enlighten all who hear.
Which head was lost by mortal sword to make Valrou'hain fear?"

Accustomed to such disrespect from one whose head is swelled, 
the god of gods breaks not his smile; his steely gaze is held
“Why don’t you ask Arcanis since you place such faith upon
the fealty of one whose feet are common rock and stone?

“Why not look there for answers, son, for further education?
I’m sure a mountain’s memory can help assuage frustration.”
“Oh father, I was merely jesting, save your protestation
I fancy I will act the bear and take to hibernation!”

So saying, Orino assumes the form to no one’s great surprise
and Axis merely shakes his head and looks towards the skies
“Immortal parenting never has come easily to me.
Come children of Valrou’hain, let the sullen infant be.”

“Arcanis will protect its crags and doubtless shield its peak
but each of us must learn to heed the words that mortals speak.
They only live one lifetime and while many waste the whole,
the ones who don’t will fight to death to save their mortal souls”

“Don’t think that Immortality will save you from this sword
for each of you should know by now that isn’t our reward
It’s just a cross for us to bear, and one that weighs like lead
for there is worse, you must admit, than burying the dead”.