Ennobled rank
by virtue of affliction,
Self-condemnation masks
the pooling tears.
His challenge cup
once poisoned by a dragon,
Tormented by its torching;
burning sears.
Intrinsic to his quest
there lives a code,
No law may break his bones;
his strength engendered.
On steed of worth,
his face full-painted woad,
Armoured heart encrusted;
gems to render.
Immortal risk too far
he dare not try,
Though wounds of flesh
may bleed until the end.
Scarred soul he saves,
thus he will not lie;
This, his one and truest,
loyal friend.
Alter-egoed grip
upon the reins,
Steadfast in irons,
soldered to his feet.
Another hero’s heel
in wounded pain
Adjunct to failing trial,
none to meet.
Through storms and mountain glens
he wends his way,
Howling tempest smothers
heartfelt cry.
No joy on earth to wish
his heart to stay,
All hope gone,
anguished wish to die.
Softest breathing kelpie
heard his pleas,
Veiled as creature
tempting to his fate.
Brought errant knight
upon his knees
Submerged his soul,
became his life-long mate.
Whisper when you travel
in the fey lands.
In winds and breaths of air
each curse is heard,
Capricious creatures cover
more than Highlands,
Their charm to hear
each pent-up, heartfelt word.
scottishmomus 