White Horse


The warriors camped in the field
preparing for battle
Each had reasons
that belonged only to themselves
Once upon a time
perhaps reasons were
not justification but
a quest. Once upon a time
perhaps warriors were
heroes
who did not ride into battle
to conquer other heroes but
to release their souls
Face the spirit in human form:
ferocious.
Fight and wound and kill
take the risk get hurt and heal.

Preparations went well
into the night.
The fire crackled, illuminating
secrets in its flicker.
Dawn would
come soon enough,
and obliterate their very memory.