It was a long way, many a long year
I walked on roads, peculiar and queer
I traveled many countries to and fro
With mighty men I dined at banquet row
Through frosty nights and highest misery
Many a servant shared their bread with me
But never have I met a friend like you
What doesn't kill you gets you through
The Black Grimoire was by me all the time
So what I longed for readily was mine
And empty pockets never troubled me
He who works spells lies always comf'tably
Rarely enough I took it as it came
Lost my compassion and all trace of shame
Did things the way I never used to then
What doesn't kill you makes you grim
Gave all my art to weigh it up in gold
Wherever riches waited I was sold
At rulers' courts an always well-known guest
I lived their life in clover at their chest
Many had mistrust written on their face
My duties found no favour in their place
Yet out of fear they buttered me in treats
What doesn't kill you gets you feats
Just to this one thing I was not immune
Wherever strength grows, envy follows soon
Against the play of power and intrigue
Fails even the most potent magic trick
They covered me in wealth and accolades
And shunt me off to live at my estate
I wasn't spared the shame to leave their sphere
What doesn't kill you makes austere
It was a long way, many a long year
I walked on roads, peculiar and queer
I traveled many countries to and fro
With mighty men I dined at banquet row
Through frosty nights and highest misery
Many a servant shared their bread with me
But you have been the best friends all along
What doesn't kill you makes you strong