The Knights

we gather at the table, round
for there is evil to confound
our armor long has lost its shine
but yet again, there is no sign
the lake still still, its lady sleeps
Excalibur lies in its deeps

we gather at the table, round
some happy to be homeward bound
some desperate for news from home
homes they've forgotten as they roam
and some embrace their nomad life
the only home they know is strife

we gather at the table, round
for there is evil to confound
and tell our tales of how we fail
drink from plain cups, no holy grail
and toast the lady of the lake
oh, how we long to see her wake

we gather at the table, round
but yet again, no sign is found
the hand won't rise above the lake
Excalibur, it's telltale wake
is still asleep, so not this year
but someday, Arthur will appear

Author notes: https://allpoetry.com/contest/2795123-The-legend-of-king-Arthur-