482. Salix's Curse Poem by Jaden Knight

For 30 years has Salix has stood alone
in the form of a willow tree
cursed to remain so until he dies
on the windswept and stormy plains

hi s skin is rough bark
his hair is twisted branches
only his face and moustache
are indications of the humanity trapped inside

A twisted creature in the form of a giant rat
Made from his shame and guilt of days past
gnaws at his back each day
causing him endless pain and slowly accelerating his end

His fairy daughter Cossette visits him everyday
in her long sky blue dress
although she cannot hope to lift his curse
power crackles through her long blond hair
as she attempts to lessen his pain
watching his sapphire eyes for any sign that it's working

Eventually despite her help Salix will die in agony
as the evil being chews at him from within
only a hollow shape will be left
before even that rots slowly away