A juggernaut, he parts the startled crowd
With promised force alone.  The mothers hide
Their children, chiding those who speak out loud;
The men retreat, unmindful of their pride.
All travelers give him space, and no one wakes
The colors on his skin, bizarre designs
Entwining his arms, ouroboros snakes
Beginning where they end and primed to strike!
He moves unquestioned like an edgy Khan
Just waiting to project his latest loss
Upon the hordes.  We give him what he wants.
We all stand down.  But is it worth the cost?
Not if his gates stay closed.  We can expect
Our souls will rot if fear precludes respect.