Fighting at Your Back

when she needed me

the sound of swords clashing

is all to familiar to my ears...

my sword hand itches with anxiety

as i alert my senses to prepare for battle,

i clench my shield with unmatched confidence

as i gaze into the eyes of my enemies---

the smell of blood

is in the air, so i know...

peace is no longer an option

i steady my anxious spirit

as to make quick, effective decisions

i swing my sword hand---

but to no affect

my shield is seemingly...

useless

i see my enemies,

i can see the intent behind their eyes

i watch the commitment

in their every move---

they strike swiftly, and repeatedly

and yet...

i remain unscathed,

i lower my shield

to widen my sight

and there i see you...

fighting

they have not come for me at all

you are their target

and this is your battle to fight

they have come with prepared tactics

surely, they want to make certain

defeat rests with you this day---

their focus is iron clad

their planning...

perfection--- almost

they miscalculated one thing...

me, no... us

they have come for you

but i stand ready with shield and sword---

i boldly shout a lion's roar

so you know i'm behind you,

ready to aid you at a moment's call

you just remember,

to keep your stance wide and strong

show them only your eyes,

trust your shield

keep your sword hand still

until you see fit to strike

and when you do...

be merciless, give nothing but the sharpness of your sword

keep pity absent from your heart---

forgiveness is only reserved for the victor

don't turn your eyes from them

until they have felt defeat's embrace at your boots

and should you tire of the battle,

rest easy on the front of my shield

and i will keep you standing...

should you become exhausted,

i will place my hand over yours

and guide your sword---

this may be your fight to win

but, as long as your enemies stand

i will give my all to you...

as i fight at your back

 

Author's Note

Thank you for reading.

Reviews

[icelandicblue]

This is a love story for the ages:

and should you tire of the battle,
rest easy on the front of my shield
and i will keep you standing...
should you become exhausted,
i will place my hand over yours
and guide your sword---

For life is a battle and to have someone at your back is everything. This is magnificent.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you, so very much... your reviews are always uplifting.

[NebraskaHope]

I LOVE IT, GREAT WRITING !! ^_^

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you, I appreciate your great review.

[Caradoc]

This is an amazing piece. The scene of battle you set is of the old world; of warriors, honor and virtue. And yet this could very apply to today as well. Everyone needs someone who is willing to lend sword and shield to their cause.

A mighty fine write.

-Caradoc

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you for those inspiring words. Though I've been ghostly here as of late, I will be sure to return the gesture. I look forward to reading your work.

[Great Aunt Astri]

Me and you against the world ... You are portraing great nobility in your protective stance. I am reminded of battle epics from ancient times. And your narrative does tell it like a film... I can visually see you there standing at her back in defence. ............ I trust this is not truly you, you are talking about? Or was it about one of those games on the computer? Anyway, I enjoyed the poem.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you so much for those lovely words. This is about my muse, the love of my life... a situation arose where I initially felt powerless to help her. It was something she had to face alone, or so I thought. This was birthed out of that situation. So, it truly is myself and I mean every word. Thank you again, you words were a great reminder.

[Great Aunt Astri]

I wish you all the best ..... may the road rise to meet you, gallant man!

[Lydia Shutter]

When you know someone has your back, you can get through almost anything in life. Well written. Lydi**

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Yes, with that kind of support we absolutely can... thanks so much, Lydia.

[redflutterby]

Whether family, friend or lover there's is nothing greater then someone standing behind you. We should never go through life's battles alone. Love this!! ;-)

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you, Red... I'm glad you enjoyed this piece so much. You are absolutely right, no one should have to battle through life alone.

[Tom]

Heroically inspiring! Brother shoulder to shoulder with brother, the foundation that legends are built on!

A top write my friend, invigorates the soul !!

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you very much for those words, my pen hand is truly humbled.

[Renée]

WOW ! To have such a mate ..nothing would be impossible ! I love how you stand in support..watching, admiring her strength..as I am sure she admires yours .. Powerful & uplifting !

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Renee, thank you so much for such wonderful words on this piece.

[Renée]

oh.. you are so welcome .. I love this piece.. Powerful !

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

You humble me.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

this is terrific....what a strong allegory...fighting behind her, much more than a battle of swords...a battle in life as people try to bring her down...but you stand by her.

excellent piece.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Spot on interpretation. Thank you, for such a great review.

[Angi]

This feels epic! There is nothing in the world like having a warrior at your back. No matter what, they stand and fight, together. Love this. Angi~

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you for the humbling review, Angi. Your words are much appreciated.

[Angi]

My pleasure.