Death Via Boredom: a Dragon's Demise
Death Via Boredom: A Dragon's Demise
Stamping forth from his lair,
Preceded by billows of smoke
The great dragon's murderous red-eyed glare
Penetrated the gloom as he wrathfully spoke.
"Who dares disturb my thoughtful repose?"
Thundered the Worm, rocking back on his heels.
"'Tis another fool knight, I suppose,
Come to discover how a broiled lobster feels."
'Twas no powerful knight come to attack,
But a mere magician's apprentice who met his fell gaze.
The boy humbly bowed, the beast was taken aback;
This lad was scarce worthy of setting ablaze.
"Oh Great and Glorious Worm!"
The child addressed him humbly.
"I have traveled to see you through sun, through storm."
The dragon, amazed, regarded him dumbly.
This pilgrim went on: "Your wisdom is spoken of
Through lands far and wide. From you I fain would learn.
For men are foolish, learning's my love,
So to your edification I turn."
The dragon smiled, full of reptilian pride,
Decided to grant the youth's noble whim
Certain his wisdom was known far and wide,
He would teach the fool something, before torching him.
"What shall we discuss?" asked the Worm, settling down.
"Why, things of importance, of course", said the lad.
"Tell me of things that make the wise frown.
With but a pinch of your knowledge I shall go away glad."
"You are, Noble Worm, mighty, learned and old;
Many have perished in your fell breath.
I dread and respect you, not being so bold,
But be warned: we academics may talk one to death."
The beast laughed long at such a preposterous thought,
And engaged his guest in conversation.
The young pup argued well, and soon he was caught,
Entangled in deep meditations.
They spoke about natural sympathies,
Of the merits of wealth and self-isolation.
They pondered metaphysical antipathies;
Fine points of etiquette; philosophy's consolations.
No telling how long the scholarly prattle
Dragged on, 'til sleep stole over a bored beastie's eyes.
His guest then slew him without the trouble of battle
With poison tipped daggers jammed into his soft inner thighs.
Taking leave later, laden with valuable dragon parts,
He was heard to mumble wearily to himself:
"How the proud love to hold forth on others' arts,
Though to stray from the known can be bad for the health."
Copyright © William Masonis | Year Posted 2020
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