Gorean merchant

Once I walked in chains unseen, a nameless soul in burning heat. The desert winds would hide my face, a whispered ghost on silent streets. They freed my hands, yet bound my past, a merchant's son, a shadow cast. I wore the veil, I played the role, but lost myself inside my soul. Behind the veil, I am safe and strong, but when it's gone, where do I belong? A mask of silk, a shield so thin, if I take it off, who lies within? They saw my eyes, they spoke my name, no longer shadows, no more games. Yet naked now, exposed and bare, still reaching for the mask I wear. Is it fear or is it pride? Is it safety or a lie? Can I stand with lifted chin? Or do I need the veil again? Behind the veil, I am safe and strong, but when it's gone, where do I belong? A mask of silk, a shield so thin, if I take it off, who lies within? The desert calls, the road is wide, perhaps I'll wear it one more time. But when I stand where I belong, maybe then, the veil is gone. The desert calls, the road is wide, perhaps I'll wear it one more time. But when I stand where I belong, maybe then, the veil is gone.