Briar Rose
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Long ago, a queen found a little fish beside the river. She gently returned it to the water. “Your kindness will bring a daughter,” the grateful fish promised.
Soon, the queen and king welcomed a baby princess. They invited twelve fairies to bless her at a joyful feast. “Bright blessings for Briar Rose,” everyone sang.
But a thirteenth fairy arrived, angry about her missing invitation. “At fifteen, a spindle will make her sleep,” she declared. The kind fairy whispered, “She will wake safely.”
To protect their daughter, the king removed every spindle. Years passed, and Briar Rose grew kind, curious, and loved. On her fifteenth birthday, she explored a quiet tower.
Inside the tower, Briar Rose found a spinning wheel. The angry fairy, disguised as an old woman, showed her the smooth, turning spindle. “May I try?” asked Briar Rose, reaching closer.
When Briar Rose touched the spindle, it pricked her finger. At once, she settled safely onto a soft couch. Her eyes closed in enchanted sleep.
When the king and queen returned, they hurried to the tower. The spell spread gently, and they slept beside their daughter. Soon everyone in the palace slept too.
Outside, a thorny hedge grew around the sleeping palace. One hundred years passed while stories traveled across the land. On the final day, a prince heard about Briar Rose.
Because the hundred years had ended, the prince sought the palace. The thorns opened into flowers and let him pass. Inside the tower, he found Briar Rose sleeping peacefully.
Beside the couch, the prince gently kissed her hand. Remembering the story, he whispered, “She will wake safely.” The spell ended, and Briar Rose opened her eyes.
After the whole palace awoke, everyone gathered in the sunny garden. Briar Rose and the prince chose a happy life together.
That night, the palace windows glowed beneath the quiet stars. Briar Rose slept peacefully, safe among those she loved. Patient hope brings a bright new day.