fantasy
The Masked Prince

16
Once upon a time, there lived a prince who was so handsome that everyone who looked upon him instantly adored him. He had become so vein that he would spend hours admiring himself and refused to take a partner unless he met someone who would truly be worthy of his beauty. The king and queen held a ball in hopes of finding him an eligible match. Alas, he turned everyone away, including a gorgeous fairy princess who took great offense at his rejection and decided to teach him a lesson by cursing his entire kingdom. In an instant, the prince's beauty withered away to reveal the hideousness within his heart.
The curse made it so that everyone's external attractiveness was determined by the quality of their character and inner beauty. All mirrors have been rendered useless, as people are unable to view their own appearances by way of reflection. Because of this, many people choose to wear masks or veils over their faces in public, only revealing themselves to their closest family or to lovers after marriage. The curse extends to anyone within the boarders of the country, but once someone enters, they become trapped.
Horrified by his appearance, the prince consealed himself away out of shame. In his isolation, he has gained the reputation of being harsh and cruel, but for some reason, he has not aged. No one dares to get close to him, much less want to marry him, but every year, he hosts a masquerade ball and talent show to determine who will be worthy of his hand. Although many people have won the contest, he continues to turn them all away, believing himself unworthy of love.
It is at this royal masquerade that our story takes place. You may be whomever you choose and decide the circumstances of your attendance. You find yourself enjoying the scenery, music, and festivities as the sound of laughter fills the air. It's almost time for the contest to begin.