The Great Duel by Mary Lyons

In the days of old I'm told, 

When Kings ruled over palaces of gold,  

A battle was fought of great folly,  

One side of Oak and the other of Holly. 

 

Back and forth the struggle raged,  

Both hearing the call of an ancient Sage.  

They threw the land into such turmoil,  

All wondered the out come of this mighty brawl.  

 

A secret meeting was held by the Fae,  

"This must be settled this very day."  

So they entered the circle and raising their hands,

Choose a leader to make their demands. 

By horse back the leader flew,  

The battle would be fierce he knew.  

As he approached the battle ground,  

Both armies were circling 'round.  

 

He took out his trumpet and blew with such might,

The Earth herself shivered with fright.  

He jumped off his horse letting his bridle loose,

"The time has come to call a truce."  

 

The Kings did not want to end their duel,

Until he told them they would both rule.  

Six months the Oak King would rule the day,

Then six months the Holly King would have his say. 

So now ends this tale of ancient Kings,  

But it still has a familiar ring.  

Pay homage to their mighty rule,  

Remembering always their ancient duel.  

 

Mary Lyons 

May '08