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For Richard Larmer

Once, I carried arms in Pennsic's battle.
My hopes were bright and, ah, my body young,
But bloody fields weren't the place for glory
Nor buried friends the things a boy should see.
Still, I stood the shieldwall for my princess.
I'll bear the scars of that throughout my years.

I worked the dusty earth for many years,
Donned my sword when Northmen rode to battle.
I watched a queen bloom from that princess
Whom I had served in days when I was young.
It fair enriched my heart when I did see
Youth that blossomed into regal glory.

Later I would know the self-same glory
When I beheld a child of infant years.
I looked into her smiling face to see
Eyes so like my own, unscarred by battle.
I shed my age and once more I was young,
Kneeling to attend a new-made princess.

Seasons turned to garb my tiny princess
With grace that befit her child-like glory.
I marvelled that the words of one so young
Could touch my soul despite my count of years.
Bedtime dragons gladly would I battle
If only for her thankful smile to see.

This day I hold her hand so all may see
She who I have often called my princess.
Proudly shall I draw my sword for battle,
Proving well her title and her glory.
Ne'er had I inspiration through my years
To rival my dear daughter, fair and young.

As many beasts shall fiercely guard their young,
So I defend her name. My King shall see
That she should stand beside me many years
And take her place as Ealdormere's princess.
I no longer yearn for war-won glory;
For her honour I will enter battle.

Though often young bloods seek fame through battle,
Swords will never let them see the glory
That the years bestow through Anne, my princess.