The Legend of the Toy Chest

As midnight's darkness cloaked the forest,
The Dragon Slayer heard a sudden stir
of crackling branches, and rustling leaves,
then a gale swept over her.

And the moment it did
she knew in her heart
that he was one she could not slay
though she lifted her sword in a start.

But as quick as he arrived,
she detected his departure,
the swish of his tail gliding away,
a sound unmistakable to her.

The dragon’s breath and fluid sway
was replaced by an odd, seductive sound,
and The Slayer set off to find its source
after a careful warrior’s glance around.

And what she discovered
was strange, indeed—
a music box on a bed of roses
as if her discovery was someone’s need.

She approached with caution,
ever the warrior,
and then saw that the gift
was meant for her.

  To The Slayer—A Keepsake from My Heart,
  Always, The Master...

Upon deeming it safe,
she took hold of the gift
between two gentle palms
in a tender lift.

Then silvery moonlight bathed the box,
showcasing its chiseled design
of intricate carvings, tierras of flowers,
and majestic dragons in a line.

As The Slayer stood, caressing her gift,
she paused to shut the lid.
The music stopped and her eyes discovered
the message that once was hid.

For the Dragon Master’s gift from his heart
had fast become The Slayer’s best,
and in royal gold letters, it bore the name of...

The Toy Chest.

Inspired by "Flight" painting. "Flight" painting is Copyright © Stephanie Pui-Mun Law

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