Knight Errant

He imagined her in a flowing white robe
in a medieval meadow
standing among grasses and flowers
gently moving with the breeze

Even the wind did her bidding

She waved a magic wand
and
frog-like
He jumped into her lake
sure in the knowledge
that the prince within him
would find the sword
and save her kingdom.

He mounted a sturdy horse
Hid behind his armor
prepared for the joust
with raised lance.

Before he entered the fray
He rode to her
Accepted her colors
Tied them to his arm
and gently bowed
to her beauty.

Behind the armor
He hid his vulnerable flesh
He wondered whether the armor
would protect him.
When he thought she had run away
His insecurity certain of her rejection,
He hid his fear
and wore it
like a garland.
He saw his opponent
clad in black armor
lance at the ready
He was
A man-child
learning for the first time
about battles and wars.

When he summoned the courage
to approach again,
He galloped toward the opposing Knight
Confident
Showing no mercy.
His was a passionate quest
For the love of a lady.

When the opposing Knight fell
He rode triumphant to her side
Dismounted
and removed his armor.

He knew he didn't need it anymore.