To Belle

Now is time to put your books away

And throw your expectations to the floor;

Now castle walls will wrap your brilliant day:

Black night behind a cold, unfeeling door.

Look up as it descends the lonely stair,

Ponder not the life that you will miss;

Turn cold your gentle gaze to concrete stare,

Cower not from deathly demon's kiss.

Find strength within the halls and silent tower;

Befriend the ticking clocks and candlesticks;

Discover hope: the wilting scarlet flower;

Learn empathy as silent minutes tick.

Keep faith, for these rough hands which you detest

Will be the loving arms in which you rest.