The white statue rested above the dying woman's head, A ray of light shone thinly onto the old talisman. Carter watched silently at the old gaunt wrinkled woman. He would be brave, prepare his last rites, For he knew her end was near. She beckoned him to come near her. "Take this old handkerchief, the prophets gave me long ago, It has a gift, treasure it for it will bring you fortune." With that gesture, she closed her eyes and slept forever. Outside the cave, the sun was slowly going to its rest. Birds sang a mournful melody as they flew to their nests. Carter buried his mother to save her from predators. Then grabbed his armour and food ready to cross the desert. Around his sturdy arm, he wore a muscle old steel cuff, Underneath this, he hid the tattered handkerchief for luck. The fiery sun shone fire and thirst on the lonely young man, But he was well prepared, and from his water skin he sipped Sparingly till he wearily arrived at a city. Quickly he was arrested and taken before the king. No strangers were accepted in the well-organised place. But soon he was given a sporting chance: a fight to the death Or else he must marry the king's only sister. His wife had died childless. He had no heir. Everyone knew about his sister’s ugliness. Carter wished to fight but dead tired he had no option. A woman came, sublimely lithe, face heavily hidden. Prepare them both, ordered the king. They would be wed that night. Carter and his wife were escorted to a small palace. Alone he wondered why her face was covered with a thick veil. Evil witchcraft must have been playing some frightful curse. In the dim light of their chamber, she undid her dark veil. He could see why. Despite her figure, her face was horrid. Her only redeeming feature was her beautiful blue eyes. He had to treat her like a wife or die; what could he do? Suddenly his mother's last words inspired him. He produced The tattered handkerchief and put it on her face hopefully. Light shone bright; her face changed her into a real beauty. Elated, he could make love to her, but she warned him. The magic would last so long as she carried the handkerchief. He made her wear a beautiful blue face covering. The handkerchief was hidden in her face mask. He had no wish to be challenged for her hand. She birthed three beautiful children. The old king was happy and named Carter heir to his kingdom. PLACED 1