第1章

DEDICATION

TOMYMOTHER

Lovethatholdslifeanddeathinfee，DeepastheclearunsoundedseaAndsweetaslifeordeathcanbe，Laysheremyhope，myheart，andmeBeforeyou，silent，inasong。

Sincetheoldwildtale，madenew，foundgrace，Whenhalfsungthrough，beforeyourface，Itneedsmustliveaspringtidespace，WhileAprilsunsgrowstrong。

March24，1896。

THETALEOFBALEN

Inhawthorn-timetheheartgrowslight，Theworldissweetinsoundandsight，Gladthoughtsandbirdstakeflowerandflight，Theheatherkindlestowardthelight，Thewhinisfrankincenseandflame。

AndbeitforstrifeorbeitforloveThefalconquickensasthedoveWhenearthistouchedfromheavenaboveWithjoythatknowsnoname。

AndgladinspiritandsadinsoulWithdreamanddoubtofdaysthatrollAswavesthatraceandfindnogoalRodeonbybushandbrakeandboleAnorthernchildofearthandsea。

TheprideoflifebeforehimlayRadiant：theheavensofnightanddayShonelessthanshonebeforehiswayHiswaysanddaystobe。

AndallhislifeofbloodandbreathSangoutwithinhim：timeanddeathWereevenaswordsadreamersaithWhensleepwithinhimslackeneth，Andlightandlifeandspringwereone。

Thesteedbetweenhiskneesthatsprang，Themoorsandwoodsthatshoneandsang，Thehourswherethroughthespring’sbreathrang，Seemedagelessasthesun。

ButalwaythroughthebounteousbloomThatearthgivesthanksifheavenillumeHissoulforefeltashadowofdoom，HisheartforeknewagloomiergloomThanclosesallmen’sequalways，Albeitthespiritoflife’slightspringWithprideofheartupheldhim，kingAndlordofhourslikesnakesthatstingAndnightsthatdarkendays。

AndasthestrongspringroundhimgrewStronger，andallblithewindsthatblewBlither，andflowersthatfloweredanewMoregladofsunandairanddew，TheshadowlightenedonhissoulAndbrightenedintodeathanddiedLikewinter，asthebloomwaxedwideFromwoodsideontoriversideAndsouthwardgoaltogoal。

AlongthewanderingwaysofTyne，BybeechandbirchandthornthatshineAndlaughwhenlife’srequickeningwineMakesnightandnoonanddawndivineAndstirsinalltheveinsofspring，AndpastthebrighteningbanksofTees，HerodeasonethatbreathesandseesAsunmoreblithe，amerrierbreeze，Alifethathailshimking。

AnddownthesofteningsouththatknowsNomorehowgladtheheatherglows，Norhow，whenwinter’sclarionblowsAcrossthebrightNorthumbriansnows，Sea-mistsfromeastandwestwardmeet，PastAvonsenselessyetofsongAndThamesthatborebutswansinthrongHerodeelateinheartandstrongIntrustofdaysassweet。

SocamehethroughtoCamelot，Glad，thoughforshamehisheartwaxedhot，ForhopewithinitwitherednotToseetheshaftitdreamedofshotFairtowardtheglimmeringgoaloffame，AndallKingArthur’sknightliestthereApprovedhimknightly，swifttodareAndkeentobidtheirrecordsbearSirBalen’snorthernname。

SirBalenofNorthumberlandGatgracebeforethekingtostandHighashisheartwas，andhishandWroughthonourtowardthestrangenorthstrandThatsenthimsouthsogoodlyaknight。

Andenvy，sickwithsenseofsin，BeganaspoisonousherbsbeginToworkinbasemen’sblood，akinTomen’sofnoblermight。

Andevensofellitthathisdoom，Forallhisbrightlife’skindlingbloomAndlightthattooknothoughtforgloom，FellasabreathfromtheopeningtombFullonhimerehewistorthought。

Foronceachurlofroyalseed，KingArthur’skinsman，faintindeedAndloudinwordthatknewnotheed，Spakeshamewhereshamewasnought。

"WhatdothonehereinCamelotWhosebirthwasnorthward？WotwenotAsallhisbrethrenbordererswotHowblindofheart，howkeenandhot，Thewildnorthlivesandhatesthesouth？

MenofthenarrowingmarchthatknowsNoughtsavethestrengthofstormsandsnows，WhatwouldthesecarleswhereknighthoodblowsAtrumpofkinglikemouth？"

SwiftfromhisplaceleaptBalen，smoteTheliaracrosshisface，andwroteHiswrathinblooduponthebloatBrutecheekthatchallengedshamefornoteHowvileaking-bornknavemightbe。

Forthsprangtheirswords，andBalenslewTheknaveerewellonewitnessknewOfallthatroundthemstoodordrewWhatsightwastheretosee。

Thenspakethegreatking’swrathfulwillAdoomforsixdarkmonthstofillWhereincloseprisonheldhim，stillAndsteadfast-souledforgoodorill。

ButwhenthosewearydayslaydeadHislordliestknightsandbaronsspakeBeforethekingforBalen’ssakeGoodspeechandwise，offorcetobreakThebondsthatbowedhishead。

II

Inlinden-timetheheartishighForprideofsummerpassingbyWithlordlylaughterinhereye；

AheavysplendourintheskyUpliftsandbowsitdownagain。

ThespringhadwanedfromwoodandwoldSinceBalenlefthisprisonholdAndlowlier-heartedthanofoldBehelditwaxandwane。

ThoughhumbleheartandpoorarrayKeptnotfromspiritandsenseawayTheirnoblenature，norcouldslayThepridetheybadebutpauseandstayTilltimeshouldbringitstrusttoflower，Yetevenfornobleshame’ssake，bornOfhopethatsmiledonhateandscorn，HeheldhimstillaseartheremornRingforthherrapturoushour。

ButevenasearthwhendawntakesflightAndbeatsherwingsofdewylightFullinthefalteringfaceofnight，HissoulawoketoclaimbyrightThelifeanddeathofdeedanddoom，WhenoncebeforethekingtherecameAmaidencladwithgriefandshameAndanguishburningherlikeflameThatfeedsonflowersinbloom。

Beneatharoyalmantle，fairWithgoodlyworkoflustrousvair，GirtfastagainsthersideshebareAswordwhoseweightbadeallmenthereQuailtobeholdherfaceagain。

SaveofapassingperfectknightNotgreataloneinforceandfightItmightnotbeforanymightDrawnforth，andendherpain。

Sosaidshe：thenKingArthurspake：

"AlbeitindeedIdarenottakeSuchpraiseonme，forknighthood’ssakeAndloveofladieswillImakeAssayifbetternonemaybe。"

BygirdleandbysheathhecaughtThesheathedandgirdedsword，andwroughtWithstrengthwhoseforceavailedhimnoughtTosaveandsetherfree。

Againshespake："NoneedtosetThemightthatmanhasmatchednotyetAgainstit：hewhosehandshallgetGracetoreleasethebondsthatfretMybosomandmygirdlesteadWithlittlestrainofstrengthorstrifeShallbringmeasfromdeathtolifeAndwintosisterortowifeFamethatoutlivesmendead。"

ThenbadethekinghisknightsassayThismysterythatbeforehimlayAndmockedhismightofmanhood。"Nay，"

Quothshe，"themanthattakesawayThisburdenlaidonmemustbeAknightofrecordcleanandfairAssunlightandtheflowerfulair，BysireandmotherborntobearAnametoshamenotme。"

ThenforthstrodeLauncelot，andlaidThemighty-mouldedhandthatmadeStrongknightsreelbacklikebirdsaffrayedBystormthatsmotethemastheystrayedAgainstthehiltthatyieldednot。

ThenTristram，brightandsadandkindAsonethatboreinnoblemindLovethatmadelightasdarknessblind，FaredevenasLauncelot。

ThenLamoracke，withhardiercheer，AsonethatheldallhopeandfearWherethroughthespiritofmanmaysteerInlifeanddeathlessdarkordear，Laidhandthereon，andfaredasthey。

WithhalfasmilehishandhedrewBackfromthespell-boundthing，andthrewWithhalfaglancehisheartanewTowardnosuchblamelessmay。

BetweenIseultandGuenevereSatoneofnameashightohear，ButdarklierdoomedthantheywhosecheerForeshowednotyetthedeadlieryearThatbidsthequeenliestheadbowdown，ThequeenMorgauseofOrkney：theyWithscarceaflashoftheeyecouldsayTheverywordofdawn，whendayGivesearthandheaventheircrown。

ButbrightanddarkasnightornoonAndloweringasastorm-flushedmoonWhencloudsandthwartingwindsdistuneThemusicofthemidnight，soonTodiefromdarkeningstartostarAndleaveasilenceintheskiesThatyearnstilldawnfindvoiceandrise，ShonestrangeasfateMorgause，witheyesThatdweltondaysafar。

AglancethatshotonLamorackeAsfromastorm-cloudbrightandblack。

Fireswiftandblindasdeath’sowntrackTurnedfleetasflameonArthurbackFromhimwhosehandforsookthehilt：

AndoneinbloodandoneinsinTheirheartscaughtfireofpainwithinAndknewnogoalforthemtowinButdeaththatguerdonsguilt。

ThenGawain，sweetofsoulandgayAsAprilerehedreamsofMay，Strove，andprevailednot：thenSirKay，Thesnake-souledenvier，vileastheyThatfawnandfoamandlurkandlie，SireofthebastardbandwhosebroodWasalwayfoundatservilefeudWithhonour，faintandfalseandlewd，Scarcegraspedandputitby。

ThenweptforwoethedamselboundWithironandwithanguishround，ThatnonetohelphergriefwasfoundOrloosetheinextricablyinwoundGrimcursethatgirtherlifewithgriefAndmadeaburdenofherbreath，Harshasthebitternessofdeath。

ThenspakethekingasonethatsaithWordsbitterereventhanbrief。

"MethoughtthewideroundworldcouldbringBeforethefaceofqueenorkingNoknightsmorefitforfametosingThanfillthisfullRoundTable’sringWithhonourhigherthanprideofplace：

Butnowmyheartiswrungtoknow，Damsel，thatnonewhomfamecanshowFindsgracetohealorhelpthywoe：

Godgivesthemnotthegrace。"

Thenfromthelowliestplacethereby，Withheart-enkindledcheekandeyeMostlikethestarandkindlingskyThatsaythesundawn’shourishighWhenrapturetremblesthroughthesea，StrodeBaleninhispoorarrayForth，andtookheartofgracetoprayThedamselsufferevenhimtoassayHispowertosetherfree。

Nay，howshouldheavail，shesaid，Aversewithscorn-avertedhead，Wheretheseavailednot？nonehadspedOfallthesemightiermenthatledThelistswhereinhemightnotride，Andhowshouldlessmenspeed？Buthe，Withlordlierprideofcourtesy，PutforthhishandandsetherfreeFrompainandhumbledpride。

ButontheswordhegazedelateWithhopesethigherthanfearorfate，Ordoubtofdarklingdaysinwait；

AndwhenherthankfulpraisewaxedgreatAndcravedofhimtheswordagain，Hewouldnotgiveit。"Nay，formineItistillforcemaymakeitthine。"

AsmilethatshoneasdeathmayshineSpaketowardhimbaleandbane。

Strangelightningflickeredfromhereyes。

"GentleandgoodinknightliestguiseAndmeetforquestofstrangeempriseThouhasthereapprovedthee：yetnotwiseTokeeptheswordfromme，Iwis。

ForwithitthoushaltsurelyslayOfallthatlookuponthedayThemanbestlovedofthee，andlayThineownlifedownforhis。"

"WhatchanceGodsends，thatchanceItake，"

Hesaid。Thensoftandstillshespake；

"IwouldbutforthineonlysakeHavebacktheswordofthee，andbreakThelinksofdoomthatbindtheeround。

Butseeingthouwiltnothaveitso，Myheartforthineiswrungwithwoe。"

"God’swill，"quothhe，"itis，weknow，Wherewithourlivesarebound。"

"Repentitmustthousoon，"shesaid，"WhowouldstnotheartheredeIreadForthineandnotformysake，spedInvainaswatersheavenwardshedFromspringsthatfalteranddepartEarthward。GodbidsnottheebelieveTruth，andthewebthylifemustweaveForeventhisswordtocloseandcleaveHangsheavyroundmyheart。"

Sopassedshemourningforth。Buthe，WithheartofspringinghopesetfreeAsbirdsthatbreastandbravethesea，BadehorseandarmsandarmourbeMadestraightwayreadytowardthefray。

NorevenmightArthur’sroyalprayerWithholdhim，butwithfrankandfairThanksgivingandleave-takingthereHeturnedhimthenceaway。

III

Astheeastwind，whenthemorning’sbreastGleamslikeabird’sthatleavesthenest，Afledgelinghalcyon’sboundonquest，DriveswaveonwaveonwavetowestTillalltheseabelifeandlight，Sotime’smutebreath，thatbringstobloomAllflowersthatstrewthedeadspring’stomb，DrivesdayondayondaytodoomTillallman’sdaybenight。

BriefasthebreakingofawaveThathurlsonmanhisthunderousgraveErefearfindbreathtocryorcraveLifethatnochancemayspareorsave，ThelightofjoyandgloryshoneEvenasindreamswheredeathseemsdeadRoundBalen’shope-exaltedhead，Shone，passed，andlightenedasitfledTheshadowofdoomthereon。

Forasheboundhimthencetofare，BeforethestatelypresencethereAladylikeawindflowerfair，GirtonwithraimentstrangeandrareThatrippledwhisperingroundher，came。

Herclearcoldeyes，allglassygrey，SeemedlitnotwiththelightofdayButtouchedwithgleamsthatwanedawayOfquelledandfadingflame。

Beforethekingshebowedandspake：

"King，forthineoldfaith’splightedsakeTometheladyofthelake，IcomeintrustoftheetotakeTheguerdonofthegiftIgave，ThyswordExcalibur。"AndheMadeanswer："Beitwhate’eritbe，Ifminetogive，Igiveitthee，Norneedisthinetocrave。"

AswhenagleamofwickedlightTurnshalfalow-lyingwaterbrightThatmoansbeneaththeshiveringnightWithsenseofevilsoundandsightAndwhisperingwitchcraft’sbatedbreath，Herwanfacequickenedasshesaid：

"Thisknightthatwonthesword——hisheadIcraveorhersthatbroughtit。Dead，Letthesebeoneindeath。"

"Notwithminehonourthismaybe；

Askallsavethisthouwilt，"quothhe，"Andhavethyfulldesire。"ButsheMadeanswer："NoughtwillIofthee，Noughtifnotthis。"ThenBalenturned，AndsawthesorceresshardbesideBywhosefellcrafthismotherdied：

Threeyearshehadsoughther，andhereespiedHisheartagainstheryearned。

"Illbethoumet，"hesaid，"whoseireWouldslakewithbloodthysoul’sdesire：

Bytheemymotherdiedinfire；

Diethoubymeadeathlessdire。"

Sharpflashedhisswordforth，fleetasflame，Andshoreawayhersorceroushead。

"Alasforshame，"thehighkingsaid，"Thatonefoundoncemyfriendliesdead；

Alasforallourshame！

"Thoushouldsthavehereforborneher；yea，WereallthewrongsthatbidmenslayThine，heapedtoohighforwrathtoweigh，NotherebeforemyfacetodayWasthinetherighttowreakthywrong。"

StillstoodhethenasonethatfoundHisroseofhopebystormdiscrowned，AndallthejoythatgirthimroundBriefasabrokensong。

Yeterehepassedheturnedandspake：

"King，onlyforthynoblersakeThanaughtofpowerman’spowermaytakeOrprideofplacethatpridemaybreakIbidthelordliermaninthee，Thatliveswithintheking，giveear。

ThisjusticedonebeforetheehereOnonethathell’sownheartholdsdear，Needsmightnotthisbutbe。

"Albeit，forallthatpridewouldprove，Myheartbewrungtolosethylove，Ityetrepentsmenothereof：

Somanyaneagleandmanyadove，Somanyaknight，somanyamay，Thiswater-snakeofpoisonoustongueTodeathbywordsandwileshathstung，Thathertheirslayer，fromhell’slakesprung，Ididnotilltoslay。"

"Yea，"saidtheking，"toohighofheartTostandbeforeakingthouart；

YetirksitmetobidtheepartAndtakethypenanceforthypart，ThatGodmayputuponthypride。"

ThenBalentooktheseveredheadAndtowardhishostryturnedandspedAsonethatknewnotquickfromdeadNorgoodfromeviltide。

HebadehissquirebeforehimstandAndtakethatsanguinespoilinhandAndbearitfarbyshoreandstrandTillallingladNorthumberlandThatlovedhim，seeingit，allmightknowHisdeadliestfoewasdead，andhearHowfreefromprisonasfromfearHedweltintrustoftheansweringyearTobringhimwealforwoe。

"Andtellthem，nowItakemywayTomeetinbattle，ifImay，KingRyonsofNorthWales，andslayThatkingofkerneswhosefieryswayDothallthemarchesdiredespiteThatserveKingArthur：soshallheAgainbegraciouslordtome，AndIthatleavetheemeetwiththeeOncemoreinArthur’ssight。"

Sospakeheeretheyparted，norTookshameorfeartocounsellor，Asonewhomnonelaidambushfor；

AndwistnothowSirLaunceor，Thewildking’ssonofIreland，hotAndhighinwrathtoknowthatoneStoodhigherinfamebeforethesun，EvenBalen，sincetheswordwaswon，DrewnighfromCamelot。

Forthence，inheatofhateandpride，Asonethatmanmightbidnotbide，Hecravedthehighking’sgracetorideOnquestofBalenfarandwideAndwreakthewronghiswrathhadwrought。

"Yea，"Arthursaid，"forsuchdespiteWasdonemeneverinmysightAsthisthinehandshallnowrequiteIftrustavailusaught。"

Buterehepassed，ineagermoodTofeedhishatewithbitterfood，Beforetheking’sfaceMerlinstoodAndheardhistaleofillandgood，OfBalen，andtheswordachieved，Andwhenceitsmoteasheaven’sredireThatdirefuldameofdoomasdire；

Andhowtheking’swrathturnedtofireThegriefwherewithhegrieved。

Anddarkeningashegaveitear，ThestillfaceofthesacredseerWaxedwanwithwrathandnotwithfear，AndeverchangeditscloudiercheerTillallhisfacewasverynight。

"Thisdamoselthatbroughtthesword，"

Hesaid，"beforethekingmylord，Andalltheseknightsabouthisboard，Hathdonethemalldespite。

"ThefalsestdamoselsheisThatworksmenillonearth，Iwis，Andallhermindistowardbutthis，TokillaswithalyingkissTruth，andthelifeofnobletrust。

Abrotherhathshe，——seebutnowTheflameofshamethatbrandsherbrow！-

Atrueman，pureasfaith’sownvow，Whosehonourknowsnotrust。

"ThisgoodknightfoundwithinherbowerAfelonandherparamour，Andslewhiminhisshamefulhour，AsrightgavemightandrighteouspowerTohandsthatwreakedsofoulawrong。

Then，forthehateherheartputon，ShesoughtbywayswheredeathhadgoneTheladyLyleofAvalon，Whosecraftsarestrangeandstrong。

"Thesorceress，onewithherinthought，Gaveherthatswordofmagic，wroughtBycharmswhereofsweetheavenseesnought，ThathithergirtonhershebroughtTobebydoomherbrother’sbane。

AndgriefitistothinkhowheThatwonit，beingofheartsofreeAndperfectfoundinchivalry，Shallbythatswordlieslain。

GreatpityitisandstrangedespiteThatonewhoseeyesarestarstolightHonour，andshineasheaven’sownheight，Shouldperish，beingthegoodliestknightThateventheall-gloriousnorthhasborne。

NorshallmylordthekingbeholdAlordlierfriendofmightiermouldThanBalen，thoughhistalebetoldErenoonfulfilhismorn。"

IV

AsmorninghearsbeforeitrunThemusicofthemountingsun，AndlaughstowatchhistrophieswonFromdarkness，andherhostsundone，Andallthenightbecomeabreath，NordreamsthatfearshouldhearandfleeThesummermenaceofthesea，Sohearsourhopewhatlifemaybe，Andknowsitnotfordeath。

EachdaythatslaysitshoursanddiesWeeps，laughs，andlightensonoureyes，Andseesandhearsnot：smilesandsighsAsflowersephemeralfallandriseAboutitsbirth，aboutitsway，Andpassasloveandsorrowpass，Asshadowsflashingdownaglass，Asdew-flowersblowinginflowerlessgrass，Ashopefromyesterday。

TheblossomofthesunnydewThatnowthestrongersunstrikesthroughFadesoffthebladewhereonitblewNofleetlierthantheflowersthatgrewOnhope’sgreensteminlife’sfiercelight。

NormighttheglorysoontositAwhileonBalen’screstalitOutshinetheshadowofdoomonitOrstaydeath’swingsfromflight。

DawnonagoldenmoorlandsideByholtandheathsawBalenrideAndLaunceorafter，prickedwithprideAndstungwithspurringenvy：wideAndfarhehadriddenathwartstrangelandsAndsoughtamissthemanhefoundAndcriedon，tillthestormysoundRangasarallyingtrumpetroundThatfiresmen’sheartsandhands。

Abidehebadehim：norwasneedTobidwhenBalenwheeledhissteedFiercely，lessfainbywordthandeedTobidhisenvierevilspeed，Andcried，"Whatwiltthouwithme？"LoudRangLaunceor’svehementanswer："Knight，ToavengeontheethediredespiteThouhastdoneusallinArthur’ssightIstandtowardArthurvowed。"

"Ay？"Balensaid："albeitIseeIneedsmustdealinstrifewiththee，Lightisthewytethoulayestonme；

ForherIslewandsinnednot，sheWasdireinallmen’seyesasdeath，OrnonewerelotherfoundthanI

Bymetobidawomandie：

Asliefwereloyalmentolie，Orscornwhathonoursaith。"

Asthearchedwave’sweightagainstthereefHurls，andishurledbacklikealeafStorm-shrivelled，anditsrageofgriefSpeaksalltheloudbroadseainbrief，Andquellsthehearkeningheartsofmen，OrasthecrashofoverfallsDownunderbluesmoothwaterbrawlsLikejarringsteelonruiningwalls，Sorangtheirmeetingthen。

Aswaveonwaveshocks，andconfoundsTheboundingbulkwhereonitboundsAndbreaksandshatteringseawardsoundsAscryingoftheoldsea’swolvesandhoundsThatmoanandravinandrageandwail，SosteedonsteedencounteringsheerShocked，andthestrengthofLaunceor’sspearShiveredonBalen’sshield，andfearBadehopewithinhimquail。

ButBalen’sspearthroughLaunceor’sshieldCloveasaploughsharecleavesthefieldAndpiercedthehauberktriple-steeled，Thathorsewithhorsemanstrickenreeled，Andasastorm-breachedrockfalls，fell。

AndBalenturnedhishorseagainAndwistnotyethisfoelayslain，AndsawhimdeadthatsoughthisbaneAndwroughtandfarednotwell。

Suddenly，whilehegazedandstood，Andmusedinmany-mindedmoodIflifeordeathwereevilorgood，ForthofacovertofawoodThatskirtedhalfthemoorlandleaFastrodeamaidenflower-likewhiteFulltowardthatfairwildplaceoffight，AnhungeredofthewofulsightGodgavehertheretosee。

Andseeingthemantherefallenanddead，ShecriedagainstthesunthatshedLightonthelivingworld，andsaid，"OBalen，slayerwhosehandisred，Twobodiesandoneheartthouhastslain，Twoheartswithinonebody：aye，Twosoulsthouhastlost；bytheetheydie，CastoutofsightofearthandskyAndallthatmadethemfain。"

Andfromthedeadhisswordshecaught，Andfellintrancethatwistofnought，Swooning：butsoftlyBalensoughtTowinfromhertheswordshethoughtTodieon，dyingbyLaunceor’sside。

AgainherwakeningwailoutbrokeAswildly，swordinhand，shewokeAndstruckoneswiftandbitterstrokeThathealedher，andshedied。

Andsorrowingfortheirstrangelove’ssakeRodeBalenforthbylawnandlake，Bymoorandmossandbriarandbrake，AndinhishearttheirsorrowspakeWhoselipsweredumbasdeath，andsaidMutewordsofpresageblindandvainAsrain-starsblurredandmarredbyrainTowanderersonamoonlessmainWherenightanddayseemdead。

ThentowardasunbrightwildwoodsideHelookedandsawbeneathitrideAknightwhosearmsafarespiedBynoteofnameandproofofprideBarewitnessofhisbrotherborn，HisbrotherBalan，hardathand，TwinflowerofbrightNorthumberland，Twinsea-birdoftheirloudsea-strand，Twinsong-birdoftheirmorn。

AhthenfromBalenpassedawayAlldreadofnight，alldoubtofday，Allcarewhatlifeordeathmightsay，AllthoughtofallworsemonthsthanMay：

OnlythemightofjoyinloveBrakeforthwithinhimasafire，AnddeepdelightindeepdesireOffar-flowndayswhosefull-souledquireRangroundfromtheairabove。

FromchoralearthandquiringairRangmemorieswingedlikesongsthatbearSweetgiftsforspiritandsensetoshare：

Fornoman’slifeknowslovemorefairAndfruitfulofmemorialthingsThanthisthedeepdearlovethatbreaksWithsenseoflifeonlife，andmakesThesundawnsunnierasitwakesWheremorningrounditrings。

"Obrother，Omybrother！"criedEachuponeach，andcastasideTheirhelmsunbracedthatmightnothideFromsightofmemorysingle-eyedThelikenessgravenoffaceandface，AndkissedandweptuponeachotherForjoyandpityofeitherbrother，Andloveengraftedbysireandmother，God’snaturalgiftofgrace。

AndeachwitheachtookcounselmeetForcomfort，makingsorrowsweet，Andgriefagoodlythingtogreet：

AndwordfromwordleaptlightandfleetTillalltheventuroustalewastold，AndhowinBalen’shopeitlayTomeetthewildWelshkingandslay，AndwinfromArthurbackforpayThegracehegaveofold。

"AndthitherwillnotthouwithmeAndwinasgreatagraceforthee？"

"ThatwillIwell，"quothBalan："weWillcleavetogether，boundandfree，Asbrethrenshould，beingtwainandone。"

ButeretheypartedthencetherecameAcreaturewitheredaswithflame，Adwarfmismadeinnature’sshame，Betweenthemandthesun。

AndridingfleetasfiremayglideHefoundthedeadliesidebyside，Andwailedandrenthishairandcried，"Whohathdonethisdeed？"AndBaleneyedThestrangethingloathfully，andsaid，"TheknightIslew，whofoundhimfainAndkeentoslayme：seeinghimslain，ThemaidIsoughttosaveinvain，Self-stricken，hereliesdead。

"Soregriefwasminetoseeherdie，Andforhertruefaith’ssakeshallI

Love，andwithloveofheartmorehigh，AllwomenbettertillIdie。"

"Alas，"thedwarfsaid，"illfortheeInevilhourthisdeedwasdone：

FornowthequestshallbebegunAgainstthee，fromthedawningsunEventothesunsetsea。

"Fromshoretomountain，dawntonight，ThekinsfolkofthisgreatdeadknightWillchasetheetothydeath。"AlightOfswiftblithescornflashedanswerbrightAsfirefromBalen’seye。"Forthat，Smallfearshallfretmyheart，"quothhe：

"ButthatmylordthekingshouldbeForthisdeadman’ssakewrothwithme，Weepmightitwellthereat。"

Thenmurmuringpassedthedwarfaway，AndtowardtheknightsinfairarrayCameridingeastwardupthewayFromwheretheflower-softlowlandslayAkingwhosenamethesweetsouth-westHeldhighinhonour，andthelandThatbowedbeneathhisgentlehandWoreonitswildbrightnorthernstrandTintagelforacrest。

AndBalenhailedwithhomagedueKingMarkofCornwall，whenheknewThepennonthatbeforehimflew：

AndforthoseloversdeadandtrueThekingmademoantoheartheirdoom；

Andfortheirsorrow’ssakeheswareToseekinallthemarchesthereThechurchthatmanmightfindmostfairAndbuildthereintheirtomb。

V

Asthoughtfromthoughttakeswingandflies，AsmonthonmonthwithsunliteyesTramplesandtriumphsinitsrise，Aswavesmiteswavetodeathanddies，SochanceonhurtlingchancelikesteelStrikes，flashes，andisquenched，erefearCanwhisperhope，orhopecanhear，IfsorroworjoybefarornearFortimetohurtorheal。

SwiftasashadowandstrangeaslightThatcleavesintwaintheshadowofnightBeforethewide-wingedwordtakesflightThatthunderspeakstodepthandheightAndquellsthequiethourwithsound，TherecamebeforeKingMarkandstoodBetweenthemoorsideandthewoodThemanwhosewordGod’swillmadegood，Norguilewasinitfound。

AndMerlinsaidtoBalen："Lo，ThouhastwroughtthyselfagrievouswoeToletthisladydie，andknowThoumightsthavestayedherdeadlyblow。"

AndBalenansweredhimandsaid，"Nay，bymytruthtofaith，notI，Sofiercelyfainshewastodie；

Erewellherswordhadflashedonhigh，Self-slainshelaytheredead。"

AgainandsadlyMerlinspake：

"Myheartiswrungforthisdeed’ssake，ToknowtheethereforedoomedtotakeUponthinehandacurse，andmakeThreekingdomspinethroughtwelveyears’change，Inwantandwoe：forthoushaltsmiteThemanmostnobleandtruestknightThatlooksupontheliveworld’slightAdolorousstrokeandstrange。

"AndnottillyearsshallroundtheirgoalMaythisman’swoundthouhastgivenbewhole。"

AndBalen，strickenthroughthesoulBydark-wingedwordsofdoomanddole，Madeanswer："IfIwistitwereNoliebutsooththousayestofme，TheneventomakealiaroftheeWouldItooslaymyself，andseeHowdeathbidsdeadmenfare。"

AndMerlintookhisleaveandpassedAndwasnot：andtheshadowasfastWentwithhimthathiswordhadcast，Toofleetforthoughtthereoftolast：

AndtherethosebrethrenbadeKingMarkFarewell：butfainwouldMarkhaveknownThestrongknight’snamewhohadoverthrownTheprideofLaunceor，whenitshoneBrightasitnowlaydark。

AndBalanforhisbrotherspake，Saying："Sir，albeithimlistnotbreakThesealofsecrettime，norshakeNightoffhimerehismorningwake，BythesetwoswordsheisgirtwithalMaymenthatpraisehim，knightsandlords，Callhimtheknightthatbearstwoswords，AndallthepraisehisfameaccordsMakeanswerwhentheycall。"

Sopartedtheytowardeventide；

Andtendertwilight，heavy-eyed，SawdeepdownglimmeringwoodlandsrideBalenandBalansidebyside，TillwheretheleavesgrewdenseanddimAgaintheyspiedfromfardrawnearThepresenceofthesacredseer，ButsodisguisedandstrangeofcheerThatseeingtheyknewnothim。

"Nowwhitherrideye，"Merlinsaid，"Throughshadowsthatthesunstrikesred，Erenightbebornordaybedead？"

Butthey，fordoubthalftouchedwithdread，Wouldsaynotwheretheirgoalmightlie。

"Andthou，"saidBalen，"whatartthou，Towalkwithshroudedeyeandbrow？"

Hesaid："MelistsnotshowtheenowBynamewhatmanamI。"

"Illseenisthisofthee，"saidthey，"ThatthouarttrueinwordandwayNorfaintofearthefaceofday，WhowiltnotasatruemansayThenameitshamesnothimtobear。"

Heanswered："Beitorbeitnotso，YetwhyyeridethiswayIknow，TomeetKingRyonsasafoe，Andhowyourhopeshallfare。

"Well，ifyehearkentowardmyrede，Ill，ifyehearnot，shallyespeed。"

"Ah，now，"theycried，"thouartoursatneedWhatMerlinsaithwearefaintoheed。"

"Greatworshipshallyewin，"saidhe，"Andlookthatyedoknightlynow，Forgreatshallbeyourneed，Itrow。"

AndBalensmiled："Byknighthood’svow，Thebestwemaywillwe。"

ThenMerlinbadethemturnandtakeRest，fortheirgoodsteeds’wearysake，Betweenthehighwayandthebrake，Tillstarrymidnightbadethemwake：

Then"Rise，"hesaid，"thekingisnigh，WhohathstolenfromallhishostawayWiththreescorehorseinarmedarray，ThegoodliestknightsthatbearhisswayAndholdhiskingdomhigh。

"AndtwentyrideofthembeforeTobearhiserrand，erethedoorTurnofthenight，sealedfastnomore，Andsundawnbidthestarswaxhoar；

Forbythestarshineofto-nightHeseeksalemanwhereshewaitsHiscoming，darkandswiftasfate’s，AndhearkenstowardtheunopeninggatesThatyieldnothimtosight。

ThenthroughtheglimmeringgloomaroundAshadowysenseoflightandsoundMade，eretheproofthereofwerefound，Thebraveblitheheartswithinthembound，And"Where，"quothBalen，"ridestheking？"

Butsofterspaketheseer："Abide，Tillhithertowardyourspearsheride，WhereallthenarrowingwoodlandsideGrowsdensewithboughsthatcling。"

ThereinthatstraiteningwaytheymetThewildWelshhostagainstthemset，Andsmotetheirstrongkingdown，ereyetHishurryinghordeofspearsmightgetFiercevantageofthem。ThenthefightGrewgreatandjoyousasitgrew，Forleftandrightthosebrethrenslew，TillallthelawnwaxedredwithdewMoredeepthandewsofnight。

AnderethefullfiercetalewasreadFullfortylaybeforethemdead，AndfastthehurtlingremnantfledAndwistnotwhitherfearhadled：

Andtowardthekingtheywentagain，Andwouldhaveslainhim：buthebowedBeforethem，cryinginfearaloudForgracetheygavehim，seeingtheproudWildkingbroughtlowestofmen。

AnderethewildwoodleaveswerestirredWithsongorwingofwakeningbird，InCamelotwasMerlin’swordWithjoyinjoyouswonderheardThattoldofArthur’sbitterestfoeDiskingdomedanddiscomfited。

"Bywhom？"thehighkingsmiledandsaid。

Heanswered："Erethedawnwaxred，To-morrowbidsyouknow。

"TwoknightswhoseheartandhopeareoneAndfaintowinyourgracehavedoneThisworkwherebyifgracebewonTheirheartsshallhailtheenkindlingsunWithjoymorekeenanddeepthanday。"

AnderethesundawndrankthedewThosebrethrenwiththeirprisonerdrewTotheouterguardtheygavehimtoAndpassedagainaway。

AndArthurcameastowardhisguestTogreethisfoe，andbadehimrestAsonereturnedfromnoblerquestAndwelcomefromthestormbrightwest，Butbywhatchancehefainwouldhear。

"Thechancewashardandstrange，sirking，"

QuothRyons，bowedinthanksgiving。

"Whowonyou？"Arthursaid："thethingIsworthawarrior’sear。"

Thewildkingflushedwithprideandshame，Answering："IknownoteithernameOfthosethatthereagainstuscameAndwitheredallourstrengthlikeflame：

Theknightthatbearstwoswordsisone，Andonehisbrother：notonearthMaymenmeetmenofknightlierworthNormightierbornofmortalbirthThathailthesovereignsun。"

AndArthursaid："IknowthemnotButmuchamIforthis，Godwet，Beholdentothem：LauncelotNorTristram，whenthewarwaxedhotAlongthemarcheseastandwest，Wroughtevernoblerworkthanthis。"

"Ah，"Merlinsaid，"sorepityitisAndstrangemischanceofdoom，Iwis，Thatdeathshouldmartheirquest。

"Balen，theperfectknightthatwonTheswordwhosenameismalison，Andmadehisdeedhisdoom，isone：

NorhathhisbrotherBalandoneLessroyalservice：notonearthLivesthereanoblerknight，morestrongOfsoultowinmen’spraiseinsong，AlbeitthelightabidenotlongThatlightenedroundhisbirth。

"Yea，andofallsadthingsIknowTheheaviestandthehighestinwoeIsthis，thedoomwhosedatebringslowToosoonintimelessoverthrowAheadsohigh，ahopesosure。

ThegreatestmoanforanyknightThateverwonfairfameinfightShallbeforBalen，seeinghismightMustnownotlongendure。"

"Alas，"KingArthursaid，"hehathshownSuchlovetome-wardthatthemoanMadeofhimshouldbeminealoneAboveallother，knowingitknownIhaveilldeserveditofhim。""Nay，"

SaidMerlin，"heshalldoforyouMuchmore，whentimeshallbeanew，ThantimehathgivenhimchancetodoOrhopemaythinktosay。

"ButnowmustbeyourpowerspurveyedTomeet，erenoonofmornbemadeTo-morrow，allthehostarrayedOfthiswildfoe’swildbrother，laidAroundagainstyou：seetoitwell，FornowIpartfromyou。"Andsoon，Whensundawnslewthewitheringmoon，TwohostsweremettowintheboonWhosetaleisdeath’stotell。

AlordlytaleofknightsandlordsFordeathtotellbycountofswordsWhenwar’swildharpinallitschordsRangroyaltriumph，andthehordesOfhurtlingfoemenrockedandreeledAswaveswind-thwartedonthesea，Wastoldofallthattheremightbe，TillscarcemightbattlehearorseeThefortuneofthefield。

AndmanyaknightwonfamethatdayWheneventheserpentsoulofKayWaskindledtowardthefieryplayAsmightalion’sbeforprey，AndwonhimfamethatmightnotdieWithpassingofhisrancorousbreathButclungabouthislifeanddeathAsfirethatspeaksincloud，andsaithWhatstrongmenhearandfly。

AndgloriousworkswereArthur’sthere，Thatlitthebattle-darkenedair：

ButwhentheysawbeforethemfareLikestarsofstormtheknightthatbareTwoswordsabouthimgirtforfray，Balen，andBalanwithhim，thenStrongwondersmotethesoulsofmenIfheaven’sownhostorhell’sdeepdenHadsentthemforthtoslay。

Sokeentheyrodeacrossthefight，Sosharptheysmotetoleftandright，AndmadeofhurtlingdarknesslightWithlightningoftheirswords，tillflightAndfearbeforethemflewlikeflame，ThatArthur’sselfhadneverknown，Hesaid，sincefirsthisblastwasblown，SuchlordsofwarasthesealoneThatwhenceheknewnotcame。

ButwhilethefireofwarwaxedhotThewildkinghearkened，hearingnot，Throughstormofspearsandarrow-shot，ForsuccourtowardhimfromKingLotAndallhishostofsea-bornmen，Strongasthestrongstorm-bafflingbirdWhosecryroundOrkney’sheadlandsheardIsasthesea’sownsovereignwordThatmocksourmortalken。

ForMerlin’scraftofprophecy，Whowistthatoneoftwainmustdie，PutmightinhimtosaytherebyWhichheadshouldloseitscrown，andlieStricken，thoughlothheweretoknowThateitherlifeshouldwaneandfail；

YetmostmightArthur’sloveavail，AndstillwithsubtlytemperedtaleHiswileheldfastthefoe。

WithwovenwordsofmagicmightWhereinthesubtleshadowandlightChangedhopeandfeartillfeartookflight，HestayedKingLot’sfiercelustoffightTillallthewildWelshwarwasdrivenAsfoambeforethewindthatwakesWiththeall-awakeningsun，andbreaksStrongshipsthatruethemirthitmakesWhengracetoslayisgiven。

Andeverhotterlitandhigher，Asfirethatmeetsencounteringfire，WaxedinKingLothiskeendesireTobidrevengewithinhimtireOnArthur’sravagedfameandlife：

AcrossthewavesofwarbetweenFloatedandflashed，unseenandseen，ThelustrouslikenessofthequeenWhomshamehadsealedhiswife。

ButwhenthewofulwordwasbroughtThatwhilehetarried，doubtingnought，ThehopewaslostwhosegoalhesoughtAndallthefightheyearnedforfought，Hisheartwasrentforgriefandshame，AndhalfhishopewassetonflightTillwordwasgivenhimofaknightWhosaid："Theyarewearyandwornwithfight，Andwemorefreshthanflame。"

AndbrightanddarkasnightanddayEreeitherfindtheunopeningwayClear，andforegotheunalteringsway，Thesadking’sfaceshone，frowning："Yea，IwouldthateveryknightofmineWoulddohispartasIshalldo，"

Hesaid，"tilldeathorlifeanewShalljudgebetweenusasisdueWithwiserdoomthanthine。"

ThenthunderedalltheawakeningfieldWithcrashofhoststhatclashedandreeled，Bannertobanner，shieldtoshield，Andspeartosplinteringspear-shaft，steeledAsheartagainsthighheartofman，AshopeagainsthighhopeofknightTopluckthecrestandcrownoffightFromwar’sclenchedhandbystorm’swildlight，Forblessinggivenorban。

AllheartsofhearkeningmenthatheardThebantwin-bornwithblessing，stirredLikespringtidewaters，knewthewordWherebythesteedsofstormarespurredWithravenousrapturetodestroy，Andlaughedforloveofbattle，piercedWithpassionoftempestuousthirstAndhungeringhopetoassuageitfirstWithdraughtsofstormyjoy。

ButsheeraheadoftheirontideThatrockedandroaredfromsidetosideRodeasthelightning’slordmightrideKingLot，whoseheartwassettoabideAllperiloftheraginghour，AndallhishostofwarriorsbornWherelandsbywarringseasarewornWasonlybyhishandsupborneWhogavethemprideandpower。

Butasthesea’shandsmitestheshoreAndshattersallthestrengthsthatboreTheravageearthmaybearnomore，SosmotethehandofPellinoreCharging，aknightofArthur’schief，Andclovehisstrongsteed’sneckintwain，Andsmotehimsheerthroughbrowandbrain，Falling：andthereKingLotlayslain，Andknewnotwrathorgrief。

AndallthehostofOrkneyfled，Andmanyamother’ssonlaydead：

ButwhentheyraisedthestrickenheadWhenceprideandpowerandshamewerefledAndrageandanguishnowcastout，Andboreittowardakinglytomb，ThewifewhoselovehadwroughthisdoomCamethither，fairasmorning’sbloomAnddarkastwilight’sdoubt。

Andthereherfourstrongsonsandhis，GawainandGareth，GaherysAndAgravain，whosesword’ssharpkissWithsoundofhell’sownserpent’shissShouldonedayturnherlifetodeath，Stoodmourningwithher：butbytheseSeeingMordredasaseerthatsees，AnguishofterrorbentherkneesAndcaughthershudderingbreath。

ThesplendourofhersovereigneyesFlasheddarknessdeeperthantheskiesFeelorfearwhenthesunsetdiesOnhisthatfeltasmidnightriseTheirdoomuponthem，thereundoneByfaithinfearerethoughtcouldyieldAshadowysenseofdaysrevealed，Theravinofthefinalfield，Theterroroftheirson。

ForArthur’s，astheycaughtthelightThatsoughtanddurstnotseekhissight，Darkened，andallhisspirit’smightWitheredwithinhimevenasnightWitherswhensunrisethrillsthesea。

ButMordred’slightenedaswithfireThatsmotehismotherandhissireWithdarklingdoomanddeepdesireThatbadeitsdarknessbe。

AndheavierontheirheartstheweightSankofthefearthatbringsforthfate，ThebitterdoubtwhosewombisgreatWithallthegriefandloveandhateThatturntofiremen’sdaysonearth。

Andgloriouswasthefuneralmade，AnddarkthedeepeningdreadthatswayedTheirdarkeningsoulswhoselightgrewshadeWithsenseofdeathinbirth。

VI

Inautumn，whenthewindandseaRejoicetoliveandlaughtobe，AndscarcetheblastthatcurbsthetreeAndbidsbeforeitquailandfleeThefieryfoliage，whereitsbrandIsradiantasthesealofspring，Soundslessdelight，andwavesawingLesslustrous，life’sloudthanksgivingPutslifeinseaandland。

HighhopeinBalen’sheartalightLaughed，asfromallthatclamorousfightHepassedandsoughtnotArthur’ssight，WhofainhadfoundhiskingliestknightAndmadeamendforBalen’swrong。

ButMerlingavehissoultoseeFate，risingasashorewardsea，AndallthesorrowthatshouldbeErehopeorfearthoughtlong。

"OwherearetheywhosehandsupboreMybattle，"Arthursaid，"beforeThewildWelshhost’swiderageandroar？

BalenandBalan，Pellinore，Wherearethey？"Merlinansweredhim：

"BalenshallbenotlongawayFromsightofyou，butnightnordayShallbringhisbrotherbacktosayIflifeburnbrightordim。"

"Now，bymyfaith，"saidArthurthen，"Twomarvellousknightsarethey，whosekenTowardbattlemakesthetwainasten，AndBalenmostofallbornmenPassethofprowessallIknowOreverfoundorsoughttosee：

WouldGodhewouldabidewithme，TofacethetimesforetoldoftheeAndallthelatterwoe。"

FortherehadMerlinshownthekingThedoomthatsongsunbornshouldsing，ThegiftsthattimeshouldriseandbringOfblitheandbitterdaystospringAsweedsandflowersagainstthesun。

Andonthekingforfear’ssakefellSickness，andsorrowdeepashell，NorevenmightsleepbidfearfarewellIfgracetosleepwerewon。

DowninameadowgreenandstillHebadethefolkthatwroughthiswillPitchhispavilion，wherethechillSoftnightwouldletnotrestfulfilHisheartwhereindarkfearslaydeep。

AndsharpagainsthishearingcastCameasoundasofhorsehoofsfastPassing，thateretheirsoundwerepastArousedhimasfromsleep。

AndforthhelookedalongthegrassAndsawbeforehisportalpassAknightthatwailedaloud，"AlasThatlifeshouldfindthisdolorouspassAndfindnoshieldfromdoomanddole！"

Andhearingallhismoan，"Abide，Fairsir，"thekingaroseandcried，"AndsaywhatsorrowbidsyourideSosorrowfulofsoul。"

"Myhurtmaynomanheal，Godwot，Andhelpofmanmayspeedmenot，"

Thesadknightsaid，"norchangemylot。"

AndtowardthecastleofMelyotWhosetowersarosealeagueawayHepassedforthsorrowing：andanon，Erewellthewofulsightweregone，CameBalendownthemeadsthatshone，Strong，bright，andbraveasday。