It was a hazy afternoon, and the nimble creatures Spun and danced beneath the trees; All dreamy were the moonlit hills, And the whispers played with the breeze. "Watch out for the Shadow Beast, my friend! With jaws that snap and claws that seize! Beware the Midnight Bird, and keep Clear of the mysterious, lurking tease!" He gripped his gleaming sword with care, Long he sought the elusive foe— Resting by the ancient oak, He pondered all he sought to know. Staring deep within his thoughts, The Shadow Beast, with eyes aglow, Sneaked softly through the twilight woods, Murmuring secrets, low and slow. Slice! Swipe! The sword cut through the air, Its magic slice a blinding flash! He left it still, and with its crown, Returned triumphant with a laugh. “Have you brought down the Shadow Beast? To my arms, brave soul of mine! Oh joyous day! Celebrate! Sing loud!” He laughed in delight, so divine. It was a hazy afternoon, and the nimble creatures Spun and danced beneath the trees; All dreamy were the moonlit hills, And the whispers played with the breeze. [Bridge] The Shadow Beast returned, oh dear, With sticky candy canes for claws, It tickled the hero till he shed a tear, And burst into laughter without pause. "Beware my sugary terror!" it roared, As he slipped on marshmallow goo, But with popcorn armor and a plastic sword, He giggled and charged anew. The Midnight Bird swooped down in jest, Wearing a top hat and a tie, Cawing jokes that had no rest, "To scare or laugh, oh my, oh my!" In the meadow by the ancient tree, The laughter echoed with eerie glee, The hero danced with monsters in delight, A comedy of shadows and fright. As twilight stretched its inky veil, The Shadow Beast awoke with glee; Its fangs like candied licorice, And claws of cherry taffy. "Welcome to my carnival of dread!" It chuckled, ringing bells of fear. "Now taste my rainbow candies, And tremble as I draw near." Our hero donned his holy cape, A halo perched upon his head, Rosary beads of bubblegum, To ward off the spectral dread. The Midnight Bird, in cape of silk, Hovered with a sugar-coated grin, Told riddles of eternity, In a voice like ethereal hymn. With each swing of his gummy saber, The hero danced a merry jig, Conquering his foes with laughter, In this theological gig.