There Once Lived

I know, Great Ruler, it is hardly my place
To intrude so boldly into this space
I pray, dear Empress, that you take no offense
as of your behavior I attempt to make sense.

Two nights ago, on one troubled eve
You stumbled--though gracefully--and tore up my sleeve
Now Empress, rest assured, I could not care less
Whether my appearance is rendered a mess
But your mumbled goodbye
And the tears in your eye
Have caused such concern I can't help but stop by.

This note I have wrote, and left on your desk
Now quotes a friend with story grotesque:

'A fortnight ago, I was blessed with the presence
'Of our dear Empress with face luminescent
'She bid us glad tidings throughout her visit
'Yet I could not help but notice things inexplicit

'The Empress, it seemed, had on a large mask
'It covered her body throughout her task
'A sadness, so hidden I could scarcely detect
'It was pain, plain and simple, though I could not inspect

'My friend, it seems to me our dear ruler is mourning
'I urge you to action; we may get no further warning'.

Now Empress, your subjects could never blame you for lying
For each one of us all, these new times have been trying.
Yet still, you surely will not resist
My efforts to help, my attempt to insist.

Empress, your servants endeavor to support
It's my wish for us to build a solid rapport
You're not alone in your grief; it's affecting us all
Only together can we make it through this pall
Dear Empress, I plead, please with us stand tall
Do not hide behind such a wall.

My concerns I've kept private, only a close-knit group
Knows of your sorrows and attempts to recoup
As further incentive, perhaps consolation
I supply you with gossip that's spread through the nation:

Rumors have begun to circulate
That there's been laid sufficient bait
The murderer may soon be revealed
Then he can be brought to yield

With utmost love and devotion this vessel I close
--and one more apology, for I have imposed--
I hope to be your solemn friend
I hope that from this we may mend

--Your humble servant, Ruby Day.