Stone by stone the halls were rising Banners climbed into the air. From the borders came the nobles Drawn to Arthur's summons there. No high seat above another No first place beside the king. Every knight would face his brother Bound beneath A single ring. Lancelot came from distant country Gawain rode from Orkney's shore Men who once had fought as rivals Laid their quarrels at the door Steel was sworn to guard the helpless Strength was pledged against the wrong. Not for plunder. Not for glory. But to make A kingdom strong. No head. No end. No greater chair. One circle For the oath they shared. THE ROUND TABLE! Let every banner fall! THE ROUND TABLE! One brotherhood for all! Raise the sword! Speak the vow! Let the old divisions cease! Around the table Arthur dreamed A kingdom built On peace. Feasts were held beneath the rafters, Golden torches filled the hall. Stories passed from knight to minstrel Names were carved upon the wall. Yet one chair remained unspoken Empty underneath the flame. No man dared To take the setting. No one yet Could bear its name. The Siege Perilous... Waiting still. For one untouched By pride or will. A vacant place. A hidden sign. A chair reserved By hands divine. THE ROUND TABLE! Let every banner fall! THE ROUND TABLE! One brotherhood for all! But beneath The songs of Camelot, Beyond the feast and flame, An empty chair Was waiting... For the knight Who had not came. The circle stood complete. Almost. One place remained...
