Time stood still for the people of Winico as the grave news of Princess Rose broke. Not only had a witch attempt to end her life but now the princess was in a fatal coma.
For years I dreamed of confessing my undying affection for her but now that wish seems mortally unfeasible.
Healers from all across the land rushed to the princess, trying their best to cure her and break her from the spell. But alas, only the witch that cursed her could save her from impending death. Many Princes travelled far and wide to join the hunt for the escaped witch as the King had promised his daughters hand in marriage to the victor.
Never.
Over my dead fucking body would I let another man touch my beautiful Princess.
Without hesitation I rush to the palace to see the King.
"Your majesty, I am but a humble carpenter from our small town but, I would like to join the others in competing for your daughters' hand," I say, bowing my head in strict accordance.
The King spits his wine in shock and throws his head back in hysterical laughter. He turns to the Queen who mimics his amusement.
Her flawless beauty is undeniable. Creamy skin, dark hair, full red lips and a voluptuous chest with only a hint of a sag but, she doesn't compare to her nubile, virginal daughter.
"You? Peasant? Want to compete for our daughters hand in marriage? Are you ill with the plague or simply out of your mind?" she presses, stifling a grin.
The servants join the King and Queen in ridiculing my plea with sneers and chuckles.
I swallow hard but fight to retain my confidence.
"Your highness... Yes, I have no money or land but I do have expert knowledge of the woods where the witch resides. The others aren't familiar with our lands, surely I could be of great assistance at the very least," I insist.
The room quiets as the King holds his chin, contemplating my offer with a dim smile while the Queen glares violently, brusquely reminding me that I am beneath them.
She parts her lips to speak but the King stops her.
"The peasant has made a fair point. If he can find the witch and cure the Princess, he may marry my daughter."
"Your Majesty!" the Queen objects, turning violently in her golden throne.
"But, since this outcome is highly improbable, he would in the meantime be of assistance to the more capable suitors," he finishes.
I clench my fist behind my back and grit my teeth, never have I been this humiliated. I will prove to them that I am more than capable of saving the princess. Biting my tongue I nod and leave the palace to join the others.
The sun has now set and many suitors have given up the search and acrimoniously returned to their kingdoms.