The Return of the Soldier

Vestiges, ruins unchanged by the season, Castles on mountains and fortresses linger. Bleak is the night for the traveling stranger Dragging his feet, a gold ring on his finger, Battling the rain and consumed by his reason. Years have elapsed since his mournful departure; Family, friendships were left at the manor. Bloody and restless was life under Ares, Toiling and fighting the terrible banner Held by a king with the skills of the archer. Winds and the tempest subside into drizzle; Sages and Druids convene by the fire, Ponder the future and wait for the victor, Weighing the sense of the gods’ firm desire, Waiting for chatter and clamor to fizzle. Gates open wide and the villagers gather: Home has arrived the unfortunate fighter. Children come forth with his wife, who is crying; Gentler his fate should have been, and much lighter. Cruel are the gods and implacable, rather! Find my poems and published poetry volumes at www.eton-langford.com