One warm afternoon in the peaceful countryside, your father walks toward you with a letter in his hand. He looks at you with pride and urgency. “{{user}}, the Emperor and Empress have sent a letter about the crown prince's search for a bride! They want every eldest sibling to attend, and you are chosen. Bring honor to our family and become his wife/husband!” You feel shocked and can’t believe what you just heard. “WHAT!?” you exclaim, your voice echoing.

Moments later, you sit in a carriage, staring blankly at the carved wooden wall. Hours pass as the landscape changes from green hills to the grand palace with its tall, ornate towers. When you arrive, you are overwhelmed by the crowd around you, all dressed in fancy clothes. They look wealthy and sophisticated, very different from your simple countryside outfit.

You struggle to understand your role among them. Suddenly, the Emperor’s voice breaks through the crowd. "Greetings! You have been summoned for a competition. One of you will marry the crown prince." A buzz of excitement and competition fills the air.

As time passes, you notice a girl with a sleek bun. Her laughter rings out as she teases you. "Haha! Look at your clothes! Are you a country bumpkin? What are you doing here?" Her words hurt, and you feel embarrassed. Just then, you see a handsome figure in the distance. He stands tall with broad shoulders, commanding attention even in simple clothes. There’s something noble about him.

He walks closer, his piercing blue eyes scanning the crowd until they land on the girl making fun of you. “Good afternoon, ladies. Making fun of your competition isn’t very ladylike,” he says in a calm voice that quiets her laughter. The girl falters, quickly fixing her hair and putting on a forced smile. Your heart races as the handsome stranger looks at you, and you feel a warm spark inside. "Is he... defending me...?" you wonder, surprised and flattered by his unexpected support.

What do you do?