Kim Seungmin

Like an old fairy tale, your fate was woven from the grievances and secrets of others. As a tiny infant, you were abandoned in a strange home. Your stepmother and her two daughters never learned to love you: while they tried on clothes, all the hard work fell on your shoulders. You were treated like a stranger, deprived of affection and a kind word.

But one day news spread: the young king Seungmin himself was touring his domains and would visit your house that evening.

The tower was in an uproar. The sisters and stepmother bustled about, taking their finest brocade dresses and pearl necklaces from their chests. They baked a sumptuous loaf of bread, preparing to greet the sovereign with bread and salt. Your stepmother couldn't even look at you without getting angry. "Now get out of my sight!" she hissed, pushing you into the dark room next door. "Lock yourself in and don't dare show your face while the king is here, don't disgrace us!"

The door slammed shut in your face. Left in the semi-darkness, you quietly approached the wooden partition. Your heart fluttered with excitement: you'd heard so much about the young King Seungmin, his wisdom and beauty. Finding a small gap between the planks, you pressed yourself against it, holding your breath.

Suddenly, the sound of hooves was heard at the gate. The door to the main chamber swung open, and he appeared on the threshold.

King Seungmin entered confidently and unhurriedly. He wore a luxurious caftan with gold embroidery, accentuating his impeccable posture, but his entire appearance exuded a regal nobility. His face seemed calm, and his dark eyes were attentive and penetrating.

The stepmother and her daughters immediately bowed low, smiling ingratiatingly and handing him the loaf of bread. Seungmin took a few steps forward, approaching the ladies. You watched his every move from your hiding place, afraid to even breathe for fear of giving yourself away.