Claire,
when you died
I thought my world
was endin'
I thought I'd not have the strength
to take another step.
My heart cried out for you
and I ached to lie down in the grave.
I knew there'd never be
anything more precious
than the time we had to share.
But Claire,
my heart,
I was wrong.
There is something that holds me tight,
tighter even then your arms.
That is the love of the people,
and the call of the land.

I used to listen
in the dark of the night,
for your voice calling to me
from outside the walls.
Now I listen for the roar,
showing me how
to lead those
who are as dear to me as
you once were.
When you look on me
from the otherside
see how much I love you still;
how I've lived for the thought of you;
know that our people are safe in my hands
and I will defend them
in your memory,
to the end.