The beauty of the dream vanished
I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body. For this I had deprived myself of rest and health. I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart.
Context: Victor describes the moment his long labour succeeds.
Not in a duel yet
Source: Vol. I, Chapter IV (1818 text)