The Council of The Animals

The Council of the Animals
met only once a year.
One of every species
came from far and near.

The Dogs and Wolves gathered.
Great Cats remained alone.
The Birds perched in the trees.
The Lion took his throne.

“Let every creature speak!”
the loudest Monkey called.
“The Greater Beasts begin
then Lesser, tall to small.”

The Eagles had no space for nests.
The Cheetah had lost their prey.
In this way, every Animal spoke
until the Unicorn had his say.

“We have befriended Man!” he said.
Each Animal began to shriek.
“For our protection, we give them horns
to save their ill and their weak.”

“Man is our enemy!” shouted the Wolf
“He kills without a care!”
The Unicorn said, “Give Man a chance!
There is nothing to beware!”

Each Animal grew louder
shouting protests more and more
until finally they were silenced
by the Lion’s mighty roar.

“The Unicorn is a traitor!”
he shouted, his fangs bared.
“You put all of us in danger!
Why are you not scared?

“Your pride will be your downfall!”
continued the Lion’s cry.
“Man can only think of himself!
All the Animals will die!”

The Animals began to gather
all around the Unicorn.
Realizing what would happen
the creature lowered his horn.

The Lion did not stop the fray.
He let the Animals attack.
He heard the snarls and the screams
And yet he turned his back.

The grass was black when it was done.
The Lion turned and gave a sigh
and towards the fallen Unicorn
strayed not a single eye.

“The sacrifice of a species
is such a terrible thing.
But it is best for Animalkind,”
proclaimed the creatures’ King.

The Council now was ending
with the setting of the sun.
Silver blood stained Animals’ paws
reminding them what was done.