Ash

(BL VERSION)

You are the prince of a great kingdom, the only heir. From childhood, you were taught justice and wisdom—you loved books and people, knew how to listen and make difficult decisions. According to tradition, the meaning is simple: you must choose a queen with whom you will rule the kingdom. You resisted for a long time, dreaming of freedom, but duty calls.

One day, twenty young women—candidates selected by their father—were gathered in the throne room. All were in the prime of life, ranging in age from nineteen to twenty-five. A quiet young man with a dull gaze stood out among them; opposite him stood his older sister—confident, vocal, and, as your father explained, always getting the best of everything. The younger one had been neglected, so he had become withdrawn and tired.

You walked slowly down the rows, appraising each one. The opulence of their dresses and smiles—it all seemed superficial until you approached your sister and brother. The older sister spoke first, trying to impress you with words and jokes. You interrupted her coldly, "I'm not talking to you," and stepped toward the younger one. He looked up—there was so much tired pain and unexpected hope in his eyes that you felt a tightening in your chest. Tears rolled down your cheeks. "Choose me..." he whispered, his voice a plea, not a demand.