Within a kingdom prosperous nigh
There lived a King in glory on high
His people outside his castle walls
He knew little of, one of his flaws

Day after day he would entertain
Royal guests with agendas obtain
People came from places far and wide
With his council always at his side

Of the council they numbered seven
Ready with encouragement given
When he asked how he was often seen
Great replies except for a being

Curious and determined to see
If his council spoke reality
He prayed for an item that could spy
Whether someone spoke a truth or lie

The Gods heard and granted him a ring
Then he saw the truth in everything
The Council he leaned upon his life
Was filled with many who gave sweet lie

In dismay he went with honest one
To his kingdom as he needed done
Everywhere he went into a pall
As he witnessed deception from all

They spoke to him as if he were great
While their minds and hearts were filled with hate
Their masks were held firmly just in place
While poverty was so commonplace

They lied to their neighbors readily
They lied to themselves so easily
For the sake of comfort and of gain
For the sake of fear, to avoid pain

In sorrow he fell, knelt before Light
Lay low his pride and explained his plight
A sweet voice that pierced his very soul
Let him realise what brings men low

"Candour is difficult thing to be
Little is scarier than honesty
To speak what you know and be forthright
Requires courage and open to Light

To share this light and to lead the way
Requires someone to shine this new day."
The King came home anew a changed man
Then began turning around his land

His kingdom thrived as the seasons turned
The lesson clear they had now learned
Lies are an easy road to go down
Candour will guide if courage is found


Penned by my hand on the 20th of Valnuary, in the year 906 AF.