Death and the Maiden

There was a curious maiden who gazed longingly into the underworld, captivated by the mystery of what lay there. While others looked to the stars above, she pondered the realm beneath her feet.

One day, Death himself noticed her gaze and was drawn to her curiosity. He decided to invite her down to visit his eerie realm. The maiden, surprising Death, found beauty amongst the lost souls. Death revealed to her the secrets and wonders of a finite life. She would visit repeatedly, finding it harder to leave each time. She was falling in love with Death, who had also grown fond of her.

Sadly, living souls could not survive long in the underworld, and Death had to stop the maiden's visits. Upset, she asked him to take her soul, but Death refused, telling her it was not her time, but he would visit her in the world above when it was.

The maiden left, and Death looked on. He knew she would eventually forget him, but at least she would live a full life, and that made him happy.