King of Beasts by Invitation

The Lion, Panthera leo
Leopold by name, Leopold by nature,
The King of beasts unquestioned.
Yes Tiger you are bigger, also fiercer
But strangely I have had more mates.
Must be My wondrous mane,
Or musky scent,
Perhaps because I let them serve
As is their want and need,
Whilst admiring lazily.

The Lion, Panthera leo
I am nocturnal, I like the dark
My female stalking patiently.
She serves Me supper and pleasure
Equally important to My health.
See My lustrous shining coat,
Wicked glinting claws,
She manicures and preens them
With such manifest joy,
Under My tutelage.

The Lion, Panthera leo
Hear My roar, now a whisper
Worldly wise and mannered.
No purpose now in bellicose
Posturing and self importance.
Empires crumble doubtless,
Past Sovereigns evaporate easily
As if in nursery rhymes,
Characters without foundation.

The Lion, Panthera leo
Leopold by name, Leopold by nature,
King of beasts by invitation.
Pedestalled high on marble base
In danger of lightheadedness.
Comfortably enough throned,
Upon good solid foundations
Through your diligent duty,
Refurbished and recognized.