Viper

In sun‑baked stones the viper lies,
A coiled secret of emerald eyes.
Its scales like tarnished copper gleam,
A whispered threat in desert’s dream.

It flicks a tongue, a silver thread,
Tasting the heat the noon has spread.
Each silent step a measured sway,
A living shadow, swift and grey.

When anger stirs beneath its hide,
A flash of fury, venom‑tried.
Yet still it rests, a patient guard,
Of ancient sands, by time unscarred.

So tread with care where rocks are worn,
Respect the beast, the night‑born thorn.
For in its gaze both danger dwells
And wild, untamed beauty spells.