the ancient warriors eyed each other warily
the campaign paused
the battle frozen, briefly
was that a shot fired?
how would attila respond?
atilla shrugged and poured herself more coffee
fingers relaxed off of triggers
safeties were placed back on
brows were mopped
relief was sighed
saddam changed the subject
tact prevailed
but grudgingly
salvos of the sort that were just ignored had ignited decades long battles
epic tests of endurance and acrimony
holy warriors on both sides of the DMZ
burning with righteous justice
zealous in their defense of their holy ground
and in kitchens and living and dining rooms all across the country
the spirit of the season prevailed
saddam passed attila a plate of christmas cookies