Apostata (Imperator Fidelis)

«Apostata», one without religion, a name given to thee
That is how one sees thee, through the eyes of history
But as a pupil and writer of the ancient Hellenist school
«Fidelis» more appropriate, thou embraced a more ancient rule
People and senate of Rome
Thou could not rely on heathen Frankish legions, allies to count on
History cannot be changed, irony or a trick of fate?
For reformation thy life too short, thy dream came too late
Philosopher, man of letters, military commander
Whilst Rome christianised, neoplatonic pagan defender
Last heathen ruler over a changing empire
Restoring the Old Rome, enlightening the ancient pagan fire
In the haste of pursuing a retreating Sassanid foe
Taking only thy sword, front line, though
Choosing speed over caution, in 363 AD
A spear infliced a mortal wound, causing the end of thee
Against the Galilaeans! Kata Galileon!
Contra Galileos! Kata Galileon!
Philosopher, man of letters, military commander
Whilst Rome christianised, neoplatonic pagan defender
Last heathen ruler over a changing empire
Restoring the Old Rome, enlightening the ancient pagan fire