## The Song of the Drac ### I In the midst of the Rhône, the current roars, Along the bank where the monster lies in wait. A handsome knight rises from the deep waters, His voice is sweet, like an enchanting song. The moon caresses his armor of white, But beneath his gaze, the trap is set: Whoever listens to his gentle murmur, Is forever lost in the depth of the abyss. ### II "Come, come, oh noble washerwoman, Into my palace of golden hues!" Cries the demon beneath the river, To steal her soul, her mind, and her body. Believing she is catching a shifting reflection, By the demon she is swept away, And vanishes beneath the silver wave. ### III For seven long years in the icy water, She nurses the son of the cursed beast. From her memory, everything has faded, Save for the regret of her former life. But a magical and secret ointment Touches her eyes with sudden power: The beautiful castle is but a cave of chalk, And the knight, a vile scoundrel. ### IV The pact is over, she sees the daylight again, Freed from the waters, walking through Beaucaire. But the Drac is there, prowling around, Hidden under the guise of an ordinary man. "I see you, accursed one!" she cries out loud. The fierce monster then cuts her short: With a sharp finger, punishing her fault, He forever blinds the eye that saw through his name. ### V Traveler, remember the lesson of the Rhône: Never trust the glitter of gold. The worst dangers wear no crown, And false appearances still prowling outside. Keep both your eyes wide open to the world, Without seeking secrets hidden by dread, For the truth, sometimes too deep, Leaves a wound on whoever sees too much.
