It was an elven maiden fair, a wondrous elven beauty there!
She stole my gaze, indeed, my stare! From whence she came, knew not where.

My heart began to ache and swell, her eyes were deep as any well,
but in them lurked a purpose fell. Is Love as close as this to Hell?

She took my hand, and bade me stand, my fear and my desire,
to leave the mortal realms behind and soar up ever higher.

I rose above, my self below, with terror I was stricken!
O Love! O Dread! The very things which made my heartbeat quicken

From fear and angst to bliss and wonder, she flew me far and wide,
but I could not escape the thoughts from which I sought to hide.

Silent, she, her presence just as keen as any sword,
she looked at me and smiled while my inner demons warred.

At last I found the strength to face her,
to hold and comfort and embrace her!

And when the choice was made I found
my soul replaced upon the ground.

I leaped upright and searched the air,
I turned and found her standing there!

Into her arms I swiftly fled,
the rose of love bloomed o'er the Dread.