In the gleaming sun, Sir John charges on his horse towards his mighty opponent. In the gleaming sun, he lowers his head in preparation of the jarring attack sure to follow. In the gleaming sun, Sir John takes a deep breath and prepares to die. For he knows this breath is his last. For he knows that Sir Charles from over yonder and across the hills is far superior in every aspect of battle and skill. For he knows that this hilltop in where he will make his final stand. His final stand in the gleaming sun, he knows will be the end.
I would say shame, since the line says "repentance", which means to express that you are sorry for something. You would do this usually if your are ashamed of something you did and want to apologize.
