Star-lit Night

Steel connects with steel as they trained into dark;
moonlight - the only source of light amoungst the stars.
The blinding clash of swords more than not produced a spark;
the defence of his opponent was more potent than iron bars.

The fire flickers as the music rises and falls;
dancers pounce and dive rythmically to the beat.
Outside the light is silence - no more winged calls;
within the light is an abundance of singing and fire's heat.

A pot roast lays on the coals;
stewing through the night.
Scents assure them of the goal;
dinner's here - worth a bite.

No complaints were heard after dinner on that night;
everyone was satisfied with the flavours of the stew.
The stories told hereafter were of courage, and the "fight";
chuckling at the braggers - believed only by the new.

Barley, yeast and grapes make the homemade forest wine;
a wiff of this brings tears to your eyes and to your mouth.
And the taste makes you wonder if such bliss is not a crime;
Drunkards at the table lift their wings to take flight south.

The meeting in the clearing occurs but once a year;
where travellers of different races come together rather tight.
Many travelers avoid the fighting, secluded - and without fear;
Until the dancing starts again, on a clear and StarLit Night.

-Michael Hampton