Seeking fortune

Listen to me now, brave men, lend me your ears
No time for anything else last of all tears

Two days and two nights across the forest of Gloom
Not too far away from the enchanted lake where many a red lotus blooms

The fabled cave awaits every man bold
Filled with priceless diamonds, jewels and riches untold

He who makes the journey and enters that realm of gold
Is free to take whatever he wants and as much as his sack can hold

Not an easy road, mind you, treachery awaits at every twist and turn
Keep your eyes only on the goal like fireflies in a dark cavern

Follow the rainbow, across the river and all the way east
Till you reach a valley roaming with myriad beasts

Lions,tigers and great apes and of course many a grizzly bear
Ride through with great speed, to trot through let no one dare

Gnomes and dwarfs and leprechauns alike
Roam these woods with their all their might

Friendlier than giants, but not nearly as mermaids
Watch out for anything that sounds too good a trade

Ogres and trolls fearlessly haunt these parts
Make sure there is enough stock of poisonous darts

Beware the damsels who roam those uneven parts
Old witches in disguise, seeking men for their evil hearts

Many a man has made a fortune here but twice many have met their demise
Trick or treat has an altogether different premise

One thing is for sure,your character will be tested
Stay sharp and make sure you are not bested

Beyond these evil lands lies the mouth of the sought out cave
You cannot miss it, fortune favors the brave

Dug into a mountain made out of sheer stone and slate
Opens to all men who can make it, however late

Look for the painted serpents head, several centuries old
Only the warmth of a human palm will make it open, lo and behold

The source of all riches, beckons one and all
He who reaches there gains, and stands proud and tall

Brave deeds and good fortune; may they be your best mates
Ride away now on your journey before it gets too late

Fare well and return soon, make your wives and children proud
With riches to share and stories to tell aloud