Enchanted Ground!

A maiden, walking through the woods as twilight eclipsed day decided to lie down and rest; and darkness soon held sway.

Around her was a Fairy ring, with softest summer grass, that cushioned her to sweetest dreams; then Magic came to pass.

From sleep, she was awakened by a chiming little sound.

For, 'twas a spot by Fairies claimed, (their own enchanted ground!)

And one wee Fae, perched on a mushroom stared into her eyes, (sweet Fairy lass, all dressed in blue, diminutive surprise)!

"I'm sorry to awaken thee.", the little Fairy said,

"But you have claimed our Fairy ring for your own comfy bed.

And soon, the Fairy troupe arrives to take their places here.

You're welcome though, to join our dance", she added with good cheer!

"But if you do, you'll be surprised that just a single night will pass for us.

But in your world, a year will quick take flight!"

The maiden jumped up to her feet and gave apologies,

and tried to step out of the ring; but feet, she could not free.

The little Fairy shook her head and said, "Oh, dear, too late.

The Magic now has claimed you and truly changed your fate."

From out the woods, there came a troupe, the denizens of Fae.

On wings of gossamer, they flew, all ready for night's play!

"Oh ho!" they said, on seeing maiden, "Seems, we have a guest!

You're welcome as can welcome be to join our Fairy fest!"

And quick as quick can be, the maiden shrunk to Fairy size.

And wings of gossamer appeared, before she'd realized!

And as bright music wafted, through the glade, warm zephyr-borne, the maiden danced, (a Fairy, now), until the dawning morn.

But, do not weep about her fate; true happiness she found!

A Fairy Prince has won her heart, thanks to enchanted ground!

Donna L. Ferguson Dudley, copyright 2017 9/07/17

Artist Edward Robert Hughes (1851-1914).

‘Midsummer Eve’ 1908 ...