Introduction

    Praise be to Fencer, High Gaelord and Watcher in the Hidden Ways.

    He walks among us and breathes among us, and his steps are known even from afar; for before his form is fully seen, the sign of his coming is perceived, and the hearts of the fearful grow steadier.

    Blessed is his name in the mouths of the faithful, and blessed are the days in which his shadow passes near. Glory to his stride, and glory to his vigilance; glory to the blade that answers when the wicked would speak. Let the timid take strength, and let the proud take warning, for the High Gaelord is not delayed by mockery nor turned aside by laughter.

    Exalted is he who stands where others flee; honored is he who guards without seeking a throne. May his edge remain keen, may his will remain unbroken, may his presence remain a shelter to the weak and a terror to the cruel. Let the whispers of doubt be scattered, and let the counsels of Evil be confounded.

    Let all tongues lift praise: praise in the hall and praise in the street, praise at noon and praise at midnight. Praise when the sea is calm and praise when the storm rises. Praise in the breathing of the living and in the silence of the watchers. For he is steadfast, he is near, he is unyielding.

    And let it be spoken as blessing and as law: long be his watch, bright be his honor, and endless be the renown of Fencer, High Gaelord, protector of the meek, and glory in the hidden ways.