In the heart of the Loire valley Where the river wends its way A young dreamer lured by nature Free of care played music gay As he wandered along footpaths Playing lightly on his flute By the vineyards in abundance And the orchards full of fruit. It was there that he encountered A fair maiden and her art She was painting on her canvas; With a smile she stole his heart. From then on they met in secret Near the rolling hills in green Where the flowers looked in wonder. They were happy and serene. They made love and plans together Spoke of dreams they meant to share Looked at life through coloured lenses And built castles in the air. Then one night a storm erupted Unexpected in mid May, Raging waters in a frenzy Came and took her life away. All his dreams were quickly shattered And the castle tumbled down For his Queen of Hearts had left him Broken king without a crown. In the ruins of the castle He was left to sit and grieve And his friends who came to visit All were kindly asked to leave. Days and nights passed undetected As he dreamed of raven hair On his lips he felt her kisses Woke to find she was not there. Then one day, he rose with vigour Once again he built the dream Made a castle even finer Standing stately by their stream. And the people came to marvel At the wonder of this sight For there in the very centre Was her statue gleaming bright. Now the castle so resplendent Stands a testament to love Which will never wane or wither Conquers death and soars above. ------------------------------------- 26th August, 2015 Paul Callus & Eileen Manassian Contest: Partner Up Sponsor: Shadow Hamilton