The Harlequin

Along the path of Mulberry Woods walked a young man with a song
Brimming with much confidence and no
Cares in the world, but his pretty lass waiting for him.
Dancing feet leaped in the air with glee as
Eyes filled with mirth watched him from the shadows.
Fingers tapped restlessly upon gossamer wings as she
Gave a light whistle of pleasure and rose to her feet.
Hopping out to meet him in a cloud of tiny butterflies
Irina the Harlequin was finally glad for some company.
Jolted out of his reverie the young man looked aghast but was shocked into silence with a
Kiss from the mischievous, impish fairy.
"Let me walk a while with you," she pleaded with wicked enchantment
"Maybe even assist you as you go on this fine journey."
"No way," he cried and tried to back away, "for I have a fine lass
Over the hill and across the river, waiting patiently for me."
Pouting lips and a flash of anger showed behind the mask she wore.
Queen of the Jokers, her shrill laughter echoed persistently,
Running around him in circles with ribbons of lace fluttering in the wind.
"Stay with me forever," she cajoled, breathless whispers drowning his senses.
Too far gone, overwhelmed by her beauty, he closed his eyes failing to see the
Unveiling of her true nature – a creature of pure
Venom that lured travelers into her lair with promises of pleasure and a life without
Worry. Now all is still, the performance finally over, but by
Xmas, she’ll be back again more beautiful than ever. For she
Yearns for more, an insatiable appetite, that
Zanni who entertains and performs in exchange for mortality.

Zanni - a comic servant character in Italian theaters. They are also known as harlequins or arlecchino.
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