Daybreak Sullen Night savors his transient win. A tyrant, his tenacious fist holds Earth in spellbound thrall, While Moon and Stars in silence spin, Across a high black dome they list, obeying the monarch's call. Solemn air, so meek and still Quakes when struck by mordant sound that leaps from the furled brush. As feathered creatures rise and trill, Raucous music darts around, shattering the submissive hush. Slim fingers rip the eastern shroud And freckled Dawn peers through the cracks. Alarmed and angry, stealthy Night Seals them with his mantle-cloud. Intent on stopping the attack, he vows to prolong his might. Fissures widen and capricious Dawn Bids feisty Wind to scuttle in. Scattering batten, creating gaps, Wind gathers strength, tests her brawn, Tickles treetops, makes them grin, shivers every leaf she taps. Craven Night summons his corps and regroups To halt the imminent reign of Day. General Moon a last stand makes Against encroaching sun-armed troops. Determined Dawn finds a way to fire streams of golden flakes. Moon is vanquished by Day's radiant eye. Stars, spent warriors, yield and grow dim. Cowardly Night retreats lest he burn, And flees in defeat to the far western sky, Dragging his mantle-cloud over the rim. He plots revenge. He will return. --Cat Dubie