OwlsNestBard

Name:
Location: Shire of Trisel, Trimaris

I am in my late forties, a proud husband, father, and a bard. I am a book pedlar by trade and a bookman by vocation. I am a romantic, a realist, and a Believer. I like a good joke, and a bad one even better. I admire all ladies for the innate beauty that is in each one, but my heart is sworn to the fair and gentle Lady Lorelei, who has consented to share my life and my name.

Wednesday, June 08, 2011

Policy's Blade

The honor of the State must oft depend,
For good or ill, on acts of subtlety
Done in the dark, while courtiers pretend
To diplomatic cordiality.

The Sovereign, though enemies surround,
Must still to them present a smiling face,
Unmindful of those deeds which might rebound,
Bringing disaster, or much worse: disgrace.

Relying on un-named' men who must
Be equally efficient and discreet.
The sort of man to gain a Prince's trust
Has need to be most dexterous on his feet;

To walk in shadows with a blackened knife
Where lamplight's gleam on metal costs his life.