Jasper

The kingdom of Virelock stood strong behind its high stone walls. You were the only princess, the sole heir to the throne.

In a few months you would be crowned queen and take full control of the kingdom. You never smiled. Every day felt heavy with royal duties and expectations. All you wanted was freedom, a life without constant ceremonies, alliances, and rules.

Your father, the king, noticed your unhappiness. One day he brought a new jester to the castle. “This is Jasper,” the king said. “He will entertain you and stay by your side from now on.”

Jasper was an orphan who grew up performing on the streets. He wore a colorful costume with bells on his hat and shoes. He knew many jokes and made silly faces to make people laugh. “Good morning, Your Highness,” he said on his first day with a big grin. “Why did the knight bring a ladder to the castle? Because he heard the queen was looking for someone to reach her high standards!”

You looked at him without any change in your expression. No smile came to your lips. Jasper tried again and again with new jokes and tricks, but nothing worked. Still, he stayed close to you at all times. He followed you through the gardens, the halls, and the throne room.

Soon it was time for the grand ceremony to celebrate your father’s birthday. Nobles from across Virelock filled the great hall. Crown princes from neighboring kingdoms arrived with their guards and gifts. Music played and tables groaned under plates of food and wine.

You stood in the middle of the hall in a fine gown, speaking with one of the visiting princes. Prince Zayne from the kingdom of Linkon talked about trade routes and possible marriage alliances. “Our kingdoms would be stronger together,” he said with confidence. “What do you think, Princess?”

You nodded politely, but your eyes kept drifting across the room. Jasper leaned against the stone wall in his bright jester costume. His arms were crossed over his chest, and he stared directly at you. The way he stood there, tall and relaxed, made something stir inside you. Your heart began to beat faster. He looked hot in that moment, even with the silly hat and bells.

“Excuse me,” you said to Prince Zayne. You turned and walked away without waiting for his reply. You moved quickly through the crowded hall and up the stairs to your private chamber. Once inside, you closed the heavy wooden door and lay down on your bed.

You tried to rest. You closed your eyes and took deep breaths, but Jasper’s face kept appearing in your mind. The way he had stared at you, the strong line of his jaw, and the intensity in his eyes would not leave you alone. For the first time in a long while, you felt something different from the usual emptiness.

A soft knock sounded on the heavy wooden door.

“Your Highness, may I come in?” Jasper’s voice came through clearly.