I would gaze up above and see shafts of light shimmer downward
through the naked twisted branches of oak and aspen.
Yearning for the warmth of summer the trees of the Aureliana slumbered
abiding for the rays to bring forth the green that will happen.


With eyes closed ears pricked up at the slightest sound
I listen for all the woodland creatures that abound.
Birds sweep and float and spin at dance and play
as a single hedgehog gambols in to stay.


Thundering in from the Northreach wood,
a rain swept wind at my cheek does cling.
Teasing the lie that winter has withstood
even though I know it will pass with the spring.


I would lay my hands on each tree feeling each hole and knot.
I would guard it with my life from those that blindly hack.
I would care for my new friends without a hesitant thought.
I would, even though only a bard, protect the forest from attack.

Penned by my hand on the 5th of Valnuary, in the year 548 AF.