Trials of Destiny III

TRIALS OF DESTINY III A hall vast enough to hold the heavens, Its ceiling painted with scenes of triumph and despair, I would need a helmet to protect the world that was in my head, Then I saw it; A suit of armor, Shining in gold, Etched with the history of Elysium it told. I turned to see a suit of armor beside me, Above its head a constellation of stars A fate that shifted with every breath. The cool metal hummed against my fingers, As I lifted and placed it over my head. KING: "At last you came, Do you know how long I have been waiting?" FAUN: "Since I called your name?" With a serpents tongue that twisted over itself, he hissed. KING: "Little Faun, you've come so far, Through labyrinths spun beneath the stars. I'm so proud of you my little friend, You are so close to reach the end. But seduction's art must first be sung. Make them move while you stay still, Want burns brighter than force of will. To rule, you must command the heart. Wether it goes out or remains inside, Your will is the true key to paradise, Ambitious men covet crowns. Seduced by gold's fleeting gleam. Offer them dreams, And they'll sleep forever. Take humble tools to make your start, A simple hammer and a tether." But his words were not a gift to me, Each held a trap I couldn't see. Growing branches on the poison tree. He'd test my will, my mind, my pride, And watch as doubts grew deep inside. Once, he praised my skill, Said my voice could charm the fiercest birds from their perch, "Seduction, Faun, is a subtle game, To make them move while you stay the same. Flatter their hearts, then pull away, For want will bind them more than sway." Yet when I used his lessons well, He turned and laughed with endless doubts, KING: "You've learned, my child, But not enough. A master gives love..."