The darkness intertwines with thorns

blockading his path.

He chops and slashes

at the thick, stubborn vines

getting closer and closer

to the serene castle.

The thorns scrape and poke

protecting their fortress

but lose their battle

as he reaches the door.

Inside, up the stairs,

and several rooms later

he discovers a fair princess.

She lies clad in blue chiffon,

golden locks spilling over

the red velvet throw.

Gently he kisses her

soft pale lips,

her eyes flutter open,

she and her kingdom wake.

Rays of sunshine fill the barren castle,

the pages and knights

rise from their slumber,

the thorns and vines shrivel away

allowing flowers to peek through.

The princess finds before her

a handsome man

a twinkle in his eye,

love overcomes her

and she knows

that he is her prince.