Lament for the capital

I’m only an old man, walking by the river, afraid to make any noise when I cry. The usurpers trust nobody and keep the gates locked. The palace banners used to fly freely, but that time has passed. I used to serve at the emperor’s side, but he’s a blood-stained wanderer npw. The city is covered with dust from the calvary of the rebels. I shouldn’t be out here, but the cattails are green and the river’s flowing.