The Ballad of Lenore (Part 19)

Gaston then fell silent, sullen

He was going to make me ask

"How is our father?" I said quietly

"He's awakened, set me to this task"

I did not think he came for concern

But happy to hear his news

"Will he accept Elandon's help?"

"He's angry, you knew his views"

"No need to carry on a feud

You've apparently been forgiven

You must go back and have him see

Our need for allies, orc-driven."

He tried to rise from the pallet

But groaned, and broke open his wound

Fresh blood darkened his neck's bandage

As I pushed him back down, he swooned

Oriel said "It's beyond him."

I knew he'd need more than one day

A healer rushed up to attend him

I stood back, out of the way

(to be continued)

©Kiku Koibito poem 2016