Raspy palm upon rose-hewn cheek. A gentle nudge, lips brushing the thickly calloused fingertips where prints had been worn absent. A brush run through the curly locks his hand gently parted the tangles, impossibly cupping the base of her neck, in warmth, strength and value. These are not the challenges of slave master but one familiar to work and war knowing that which remains precious to those who have lost everything. Eyes too learned of those which seek to conquer find hope, love and kindness from unlikely benefactor. In triage and timely moment peace and wonder meet in restoration.

Sacrificed for reasons imagined whispers. Innocence found plenty must this day be acquainted with the world’s consuming carnage. Yet, protected behind defenses too large for most to ponder, shadow given, shelter and promise of one more day outside the merciless crucible. Still, fashioned for the ideas of God and made too fragile for those of this dimension. Hope, existence of self control not oft found in wide supply, giving birth to need for Lord Protector. A ghastly man when challenged by those who want his blood or honor, innocent few are lent the will and might of men who serve honor and glory.

Words, none spoken yet chapters written in the passage of pregnant moments in understanding and promise. So few, hearts beating to accommodate the oaths that we have taken, not distant lands we hoped in meeting. These youths must make it to fortress in promise and grace purchased. For now the sword and spear hand draped across her shoulder the only reason to counsel success in this proud venture. For absent one man willing to forgo evil we find all innocence consumed for the pleasures of impure measure. In this thing done would God’s validation given find that heart no longer present for tasks befitting midnight?

Of shadow’s known and goblins hobbled to meet the road a man has risen. With unknown past and likely domineering spirit yet found the fancy of butterflies yet frozen. To look upon this pure, saved soul with market perception of precious flight and fancy, surpassing ashen heart and hardened character unwilling to protect the vulnerable. These blazing eyes of horizons captured look beyond the curve of land’s fall to heaven’s waiting Gate. And in so choosing then give succor and solace to the precious lot of Lord, found treasures greater than the booty of war or profit. In her beauty she had saved him not by quest or purpose but by simple reminder of those things outside the ravage and appetite of man’s self service.