Thus came the final exchange of the play
And hands swapped hands in fate's array
But last stepped forth at Banazir's command
The leaden approach of feted Laorir's hand.

A votary proud, unbeaten then still
Who had threaded the game with skilful will
He rode forth again in Grukaian refrain
Upon a twin-toothed bunyip's shifting mane.

They cast their lots, and ties repeated came
Move by move blazed with Icossian mein
Rock met rock in each mirrored strain
Each paper folded, each steel in vain!

The crowd grew hushed, the air grew thin
As neither side could break nor grasp the win
But Shadowbane waited with patient heart
Preparing his hand with the Erishkan art.

One final throw, two flourishes made
No boast, no prayer, no Vashnarian parade
De'lajessian scissors flashed with southern grace
Like tailor's shears opening and slicing into place.

But stone's hand descended, heavy and still
Undaunted by pride, uncut by steel will
It broke the chemist's blades, it ended the strain
And flashed the victory sign for Shadowbane!

Time's Hero awarded Her starbright smile
Even as Evil throats challenged from the western isle.
And crimson skies turned lucent with holy declaim
For luck had shone favour upon Light-blessed Shadowbane.



Penned by my hand on the 1st of Daedalan, in the year 1004 AF.