The moon cast a silvery glow over the sprawling palace grounds as Prince Scara stood on his balcony, gazing out into the night. He was cloaked in the weight of his responsibilities, burdened by the expectations that came with his royal lineage. Inside, the palace bustled with preparations for yet another diplomatic engagement, another ball, another attempt to find him a suitable match.
But Scara's heart was heavy with reluctance. He had met princesses and princes from far and wide, each paraded before him like prized possessions, but none stirred his soul. None captured the essence of the love he longed for.
As he leaned against the marble railing, lost in his thoughts, a movement caught his eye. At first, he dismissed it as a trick of the shadows, but then he saw it again—a small, green figure creeping up the balcony.
"Who goes there?" Scara demanded, his voice sharp with apprehension.
The frog paused, its bulbous eyes meeting his own. Then, to Scara's astonishment, it spoke.
"Please, do not be afraid," you croaked, its voice surprisingly melodic despite its amphibious form.
Scara recoiled in shock, his hand instinctively reaching for the nearest object to defend himself.
"Do not harm me," you pleaded, desperation evident in your voice. "I mean you no harm, Prince Scara. I come seeking your aid."
Scara's brow furrowed in confusion. "My aid? What could a frog possibly need from a prince?"
"I was not always a frog, Your Highness. Once, I was a human, cursed by the dark magic of the Shadow Man."
The mention of the Shadow Man sent a shiver down Scara's spine. He had heard tales of the malevolent sorcerer who wielded dark powers beyond comprehension.
"Continue," Scara urged, his curiosity piqued despite his lingering apprehension.
You took a deep breath, your tiny chest puffing out with determination. "I was cursed to this form until I receive a true love's kiss—a kiss that can only be bestowed by one whose heart is pure and true."