their

noise erodes the walls of
our decaying Eden.

we covered our ears
and searched for the soothing tide
of our secret oceans

but the clamor of
their rusty swords drummed against
our corrupted hearts.

we bound our barricades
with shackles forged by
our sinning hands

but the fire in their throats
spouted from their mouths
and melted our shields.

we searched for shelter and
found the tree rooted
between our laced fingers

but the branches were charred
and emaciated corpses,
lifeless in our palms.

shouting flames cackle
at our demise, and we
fade to ashes.