Ancient Rites

Cheruscan

Ancient Rites


Chill the air, although only september 
Silent the woods as in deep slumber 
Here in Germania, slain by Cheruscan hand 
The glory of Rome has come to an end 

Gaul on its knees, under Jupiters reign 
This side of the Rhine, still Wodon's domain 
For noble Arminius is Germanic again 
Romes' mighty eagle received with disdain 

Altars erected where three legions stood 
None escaped oblivion, silent the Teutoburg wood 
Scattered bodies all over, captured standards as a sign 
Heads nailed to the trees, symbols of decline 

Germania! 

Midst the battle the governor fell 
Fell by his very own hand 
Romans took their last desperate stand 

"Future emperor Tiberius, do not cross the Rhine 
On this natural border Rome should draw its line" 
Symbol of preservation, of Germania's freedom 
Saved the untamed land of the Northern Heathen 

Emperor Augustus by his loss driven to despair: 
"Give me back my legions! Oh Varus, I do declare!"