White Horse, Will Travel........

So as I drove into work today, I realized somethings about myself and fairytales. I love to think of myself as the hero, shining armor, snow white charger snorting as I rush head-long into danger, killing dragons, trolls, ogres, giants, and any other beast in my way as I rescue the damsel in distress. And what woman doesn't openly or secretly crave for Prince Charming to come in and save the day? And all of the stories always end in,"And they lived happily ever after....." But what happens after those dots? I figured it out. Sadly, the reason "Prince Charming" is the universal hero is because he never stays with his princess. Once the monster is slain and the princess is safe, he takes her home and makes sure she is comfy, maybe steals a kiss or a little more, but he always rides off looking for the next pretty face surrounded by insurmountable danger. And thats where I find myself. Riding around the countryside, looking for the next sacrificial alter, abandoned keep, what have you. One of these days my horse will grow tired, my armor stained and heavy and I'll finally stay at home.

But I'm curious: is it the pretty new faces, exotic new lands, or impossible odds that drag me back out into the dark? My soul burns for adventure, and I find more and more it is actually the monsters that entice me more than the princesses. And what becomes of me when I run out of monsters? Do I create new ones, charging recklessly at windmills like Don Quixote? Or will I be fortunate enough to either meet my end at the claws and fangs I seek out tirelessly? Better yet, will I one day realize that I can save the damsel and actually stay put? Teach my heirs to pursue the dangers and rewards of adventuring, and spend my twilight years comfortable and happy. This brings me back to my last post, rolling my tankard in my weathered twisted hands, my grey beard twitching in the night air as i stare, teary eyed into the flames before me, remembering times gone by.

My only hope is that no matter what, I leave a lasting impression behind me, worthy of the bards for eons to come.