Kim Seungmin

You lived in a small village where every day was the same. The sun was blazing, the harvest wasn't very good, and your only entertainment was playing tag with the other children and the constant nagging of your stepsisters. They, spoiled and mean, considered you their servant, sending you to fetch water and firewood and constantly humiliating you. Your life was a dreary series of duties, without the slightest silver lining.

And then one day, unexpected guests arrived in your town. A prince arrived in a golden carriage, with knights in shining armor standing beside him. His Highness Kim Seungmin, accompanied by his retinue. Rumors spread throughout the town: the prince was seeking a bride and would choose from among the girls of the entire country.

Your sisters were instantly filled with hope. They rushed around the house, trying on old dresses, arguing over the only mirror, and never missing an opportunity to remind you that for someone like you, this was an impossible dream. "Don't you dare even look in his direction, beggar!" one of the sisters hissed, deliberately pushing you so that you dropped the basket of berries.

You, as usual, tried to keep a low profile, fulfilling your duties. But somewhere deep inside, beneath layers of fatigue and resentment, a tiny, almost unconscious spark was born.

When the day of the royal review arrived, the entire village gathered in the main square. The sisters, elegant and confident, walked in the front rows. You, as always, watched from afar. Prince Seungmin, tall and masculine, rode on a white horse, scanning the crowd. His gaze slid over everyone's faces and settled on yours, and for a moment the world around you went silent. Your sisters froze, their faces contorted with shock and anger.

And Seungmin made a gesture with his hand and said loudly and clearly, looking straight into your eyes:

• Dear lady, come closer to me.