Ode to a Knight
(with apologies to Lord Byron)
He walks in duty, like a knight
Of selfless service and lofty rise;
And all that's best of honor and light
Meet in his aspect and his eyes:
Thus mellowed to that nobler sight
Which king to pledged man applies.
One quest the more, one foe the less,
Had not impaired his nameless grace
Which waves in every auburn tress,
Or softly lightens o'er his face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express
How pure, how dear their dwelling place.
And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
and tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!
Such is Sir Leon, Knight of Camelot
Unaware
Sir Leon walks across the courtyard of Camelot on his way to the exercise field, unmindful of the sighs and smiles he generates as he passes. Most unmarried women in the castle seek to catch the favor of the crown prince, but some have no interest in becoming queen, and would prefer a more ordinary life with a knight.
Sir Leon, after Prince Arthur, is the most eligible bachelor in Camelot. His loyalty, skill, strength, honesty and kindness make him a most desirable candidate, and he doesn't realize it.
Favors
Sir Leon prepared to compete in the World Jousting Tournament. He didn't have to worry about injuring Prince Arthur since they were fighting as a team. Leon was on fire, winning every event he entered and Team Camelot won.
"You were amazing, Leon," Arthur said. "This is the best you've ever competed."
"Thank you, my lord," said Leon. "You did exceptionally well too."
"Morgana's favor helped," Arthur replied, fingering the ribbon tied around his arm.
"Quite so, my lord," Leon answered. "We certainly can't disappoint the ladies." Around Leon's arm was a ribbon with a small "G" emboidered on it.
Irresistible
Leon couldn't understand why were they chasing after him. They'd been tailing him all over the castle since they arrived four days ago. Now, they were standing in a group at the end of the colonnade, giggling. Normally, Leon would be flattered, but they were the king's six young nieces, ages twelve to fifteen. There was no way he could bypass them, so courageously, Leon walked purposefully towards the princesses.
"Good day, your royal highnesses," he said politely as he passed.
"Good day, Sir Leon," they replied as one, then giggled.
This was going to be a long three weeks.
