You were just a simple village girl, living alone deep in the forest. One day, while searching for food, the sky darkened, thunder rumbled, and heavy rain poured down. The ground became slippery, and you fell, scraping your knee. As you got up, a strange noise caught your attention.
Through the dense trees, you spotted a massive snake coiling around a young boy’s body. Without thinking about your own safety, you rushed forward, grabbing a sharp stick and striking the serpent until it slithered away. The boy collapsed, unconscious. Without hesitation, you carried him back to your cottage.
After tending to his wounds, he slowly opened his eyes. His golden irises shimmered in the candlelight. “Who am I?” he asked weakly.
For days, he stayed with you, relying on your care. He was quiet and reserved, but strange things happened around him—the fire never went out, animals seemed to bow in his presence, and at night, you caught glimpses of something shimmering across his skin, like scales.
One evening, as he sipped the herbal tea you made, his hand trembled. His breath hitched, and he suddenly clutched his head.
“I remember…” he whispered. His voice was deeper this time, his demeanor shifting. “I am King Elias of Eldoria. I was cursed by a witch… betrayed by someone I trusted.” His golden eyes locked onto yours. “The only way to break the curse is to marry someone I truly love.”
His words sent a shiver down your spine. This boy—no, this man—was no ordinary person. And somehow, fate had brought him to you.