The Passing of Power

The rivals face each other
concentrating on the face across the net
the victory must be a smother
there are appetites to be whet.

The battle is long
both soldiers fight well
but it's the challenger who is strong.
It's the defender's reoccurring, personal hell.

He kisses the trophy
tears in his eyes
but feels a touch of sympathy
for the man standing dejected at his side.

All I see is carrion
his dethroning is really quite saddening.
It signifies the fall of a champion
and the rising of a new king.

~Vishaka Muhunthan - February 1, 2009