The Long and Deadly Dance

by: Marlarra the Kissing Minstrel date: 1400 DR source: Bury Elminster Deep Masked, all our lies we spend as changing winds of fortune blow The trick that fails many in the end is in time enough coming to know Who is staunch trustworthy friend and who behind smiles is foe. You start out swaying gently, not sure which step to take. You'll watch the others intently, Stumble through every mistake. One move you'll learn incidentally, Dancing's a sweet piece of cake. The tempo shifts you rush ahead, A dance of hope and light and fun. A stolen kiss spins round your head, Your soul’s on fire your mind undone. Though your heart will break instead, The dance has only just begun. [Chorus] A chance, a glance, a true romance. The long and deadly dance. The beat grows steady rich and full, A house to keep groom and bride. New dancers come to you they pull. Through work and love and grief and pride. Life’s rhythm tugs the dance grows dull— Now you know it’s every stride. The music slows your breath runs thin, Each partner fades the setting sun. The echoes call from deep within, A quiet waltz that twirled and spun. Exhaustion calls, you let it in— Take your bow the dance is done. [Chorus] A chance, a glance, a true romance. The long and deadly dance.