The Ballad of Lenore (part 26)

All too uneasy for victorious joy

We dismounted and cautiously advanced

They'd been frozen in place, whatever they did

Some were circled by a firepit in mid-dance

I drew the Bear sword, and struck off a head

The elves began to follow suit

I picked up an orc axe, heavy it was

But I'd not dull my sword on iced brutes

We shattered and struck them for hours

We'd break them all day for sure kills

Their numbers were greater than I'd counted

When the Wakening Bear crested over the hill

Then a true cheer gave them greeting

I was especially overjoyed

My arms were aching and my sweat ran

Their faces were both scared and annoyed

"Not much battle they give you" said Gaston

"Did they really freeze solid at night?"

"Tis the magic of the sylphs who cut you" said I

"Our war will be won without a fight" 

My father was carried in a palanquin

I sought him out, to see him alive

"Daughter, did the elven wizards do this?"

"No, Father, I asked ghosts them to soul-shrive"

He stared at me disbelieving

But Elandon behind me confirmed

They then clasped arms in reconcile

The Bear and Gryphon in victory affirmed

The shattering of icy orcs continued

Until every last one was in shards

Then their firepit blazed and we celebrated

Our happy tale that night sung by bards

THE END

©Kiku Koibito poem 2015/2016