Even Sweet Girls can be Bitter Princesses

The crown is mine, said the princess
in a voice as sweet as snow.
None can play in this kingdom now.
Not a step, not a sound, not a show...
Until she says so, until she lets it go.

With a smile she took her throne
beneath the sky’s golden glow.
Her decree echoed through the land
and all the games ceased to flow.
Until she says so, until she lets it go.

The court stood silent, eyes wide,
as the princess ruled the floor.
Her presence strong, undeniable.
Her will, they would not ignore.
Until she says so, until she lets it go.

Days turned to nights, dread prevailed,
a stillness they couldn't endure.
Yet in her heart, an abyss grew,
a void, cold and pure,
Until she says so, hope obscure.

In time, she saw the despair she cast.
The laughter she forever quelled.
With a twisted smile, she relished,
her power over hearts that swelled,
Until she says so, dreams dispelled.

Then the princess, dark and severe,
clenched tighter to her shroud.
The kingdom writhed in silent torment.
Under her gaze, no voice allowed
and they all suffered, as shadows avowed.