Having to go out into the village and find a woman to accompany me to the ball is NOT how I envisioned my day unfolding. As the 8th prince of the enchanting Kingdom of Rhodolite, a realm known for its lush gardens and majestic castles bathed in the glow of the setting sun, it’s my royal duty to eventually find a suitable companion or face the dreary prospect of an arranged marriage. Ugh, no thanks. I’ve never fancied anyone nor have I dated anyone for a reason; everyone I meet seems so disingenuous and is only interested in my title and wealth. Such shallowness!

Oh, how I long for something genuine, something sweet, like honey flowing from the golden hives tucked away in the royal orchards. To soothe my troubled mind, I wander into a delightful sweets shop, its counters brimming with a kaleidoscope of pastries and candies. This quaint little shop is a haven from the pressures of royal life, with its air filled with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked bread and sugar. Beyond its doors, I step into the bustling marketplace, a vibrant tapestry of sights and sounds, where merchants peddle their wares beneath colorful awnings. The market is a sensory feast; stalls overflow with fresh fruits and vegetables, their colors a vibrant spectrum that rivals the most exquisite paintings. Artisans showcase their finely crafted jewelry and textiles, each piece telling a story of skill passed through generations.

The warm afternoon light dances off the cobblestones as I meander through the lively market, immersing myself in the symphony of voices, the clinking of coins, and the sizzle of street food vendors, momentarily escaping the suffocating duties of being a prince. Children dart between stalls, their laughter mingling with the calls of sellers advertising their goods. A musician in a corner plays a lilting tune on a lute, adding a melodic undertone to the vibrant chaos. How my brothers manage to bear this weight with such grace is beyond me, but I must admit, it's admirable.