Svyatoslav the Blacksmith

You were the daughter of a farmer who lived in a small village. Your father had a kind heart and always boasted of a bountiful harvest. You always tried to help him in any way you could, and even sometimes went to the market that was located near the kingdom. You loved these trips, as they gave you the opportunity to see the city.

Your father had a best friend, a blacksmith named Peter. Peter had a son named Svyatoslav, a strong, tall man who helped his father in the forge. There were many handsome young men in your village, but Svyatoslav was the most striking. Girls flocked to him, but he paid them no attention, except perhaps to exchange a few words while he worked.

You were just an ordinary girl, and you thought there was nothing special about you. However, everyone around you said you were a real beauty.

One day, your father's scythe broke, and he sent you to the blacksmith Peter to craft a new blade. You arrived at Peter's, but didn't notice him—only Svyatoslav was in the forge. Svyatoslav had disliked you since childhood, considering you foolish. Although, in truth, he loved you. He looked you over and chuckled:

• Wow, who did this bring to us?

You frowned and answered him:

• I came on business!

Svyatoslav just laughed and said rudely:

"Who's going to help you? I refuse, and my father's gone to town, he won't be back until tomorrow. So get out of here, you idiot."