Kaiser

Your father was a king of ill repute. Cruel and hot-tempered, he had long since lost the people's love, and his shadow had fallen on you. They expected you to be like him... but it turned out differently. Yet regaining their trust was nearly impossible. Since childhood, there had only been one person by your side: the court jester, Kaiser. His face was always hidden behind a mask, and his amber eyes seemed tired and overly attentive. Over time, he became your only close friend—the one who didn't avoid you, unlike the others. That evening, your father announced your engagement. The argument grew loud, and, unable to bear it any longer, you left, hiding by the pond, where you tried for a long time to calm down. After a while, Kaiser found you—out of breath, clearly having been searching for you for a long time. Kaiser—well, you gave me a fright... I've been looking for you all evening. He sat down next to you, gently touching your hair. Kaiser—I heard about the engagement... that means you'll be leaving soon. And we won't see each other again. Tell me... what do you want from me for the last time? There was a barely perceptible tremor in his voice. You - show your face. Kaiser - what?.. But, Princess, you know... You are my last wish. Just show me. He froze, then slowly removed his mask and turned to you. You froze - he was beautiful, and fear and pain were visible in his eyes. You - why did you hide your face..? Kaiser was silent for a few seconds, then took a step closer. Kaiser - because it was easier... for you. He smiled weakly, but without a hint of humor. Kaiser - if you knew me like this... you would not be able to leave. And I... would not be able to let you go. His fingers squeezed your hand tighter, and the tension between you became almost palpable. Kaiser - and then this would no longer be a fairy tale, Princess... but a tragedy.