V. H. King's Ink

the candle is burning, 
flameless wick warmed
by a fire on high. may the 

belladonna on my tongue
take your breath away 
when you force me to kiss 

your ring.

the snow is falling 
and so is the empire.

no kings 

unless every soul reigns supreme
in their own agency. I pledge allegiance 
only to dignity and destiny for all—

found, made, 
chosen, discovered,

curated from all that resonates
most deeply—never dictated
nor demanded by the power-drunk.

the snow is falling 
and so is the empire. 

(and so shall we all)

the candle is burning 
and so is the empire.

(and so shall we all)

the art is healing hearts 
freed from the empire. 

(and so shall we all)
(and so shall we all)
(and so shall we all)

candle of the day: Coven