The Elf King 

Title: "The Elf King"
[Verse 1]
Who rides so late through the stormy night?
A father and son, in the moon’s faint light.
He holds the boy close in his loving arms,
Shielding him safely, keeping him warm.
[Verse 2]
"Why do you hide your face in fear?"
"Father, don’t you see the Elf King near?
With crown and cape, he beckons me."
"My son, it’s just a misty streak you see."
[Chorus - The Elf King’s Whisper]
"Dear child, come, won’t you stay with me?
I’ll show you games, so full of glee.
On the shore, there are flowers bright,
And my mother weaves robes of gold in the night."
[Verse 3]
"Father, oh father, can’t you hear
The promises the Elf King whispers near?"
"Be calm, my child, it’s all alright;
It’s just the wind in the leaves tonight."
[Chorus - The Elf King’s Promise]
"Come now, dear boy, and join my dance,
My daughters will treat you with elegance.
They’ll lead you through the night’s sweet charm,
With songs and dances to keep you warm."
[Verse 4]
"Father, oh father, do you not see,
The Elf King’s daughters beckon to me?"
"My son, my son, it’s just the trees,
Old willows swaying in the breeze."
[Chorus - The Elf King’s Threat]
"I love you, your beauty draws me near;
And if you’re unwilling, I’ll have to use fear."
"Father, oh father, he’s gripping me tight!
The Elf King’s hurt me, he’s won this fight!"
[Final Verse]
The father rides faster, his heart in dread,
He holds his child close as the boy hangs his head.
They reach the courtyard, frantic and fast,
But in his arms, the child has breathed his last.