An ancient ruler of a distant land, Cheating death, I overplayed my hand, Now here I am with my rocky friend, Rolling together until the end

I stand between each rival side, My age recalls when knights would ride, My ground's where compromise holds sway, My finger flips the peace away

I break the beat and break your bones- Get too close and hear the moans. I’ve crowned the kings, I’ve sunk the ships, All that weight with jagged lips.

I claim to shield, yet make you pay, A price for daring trades away. I draw a line where none need be, And profit from hypocrisy. A patriot’s toll or petty bluff? Depends on who has bought enough.

I show up late but always collect, Fund your roads with quiet neglect. I promise the rich will carry the strain, Then siphon your sweat down the capital drain.