Chapter One: The Fisherman and the Princess
In the steampunk world of the 1940s, the kingdom of Airlund was ruled by King Harold and his beloved daughter, Princess Isabella. The kingdom was known for its technological advancements, with steam-powered airships soaring through the skies and clockwork automatons serving as household servants.
Jack was a fisherman who lived in a small fishing village along the river that flowed through the kingdom. He spent his days out on the water, casting his nets and catching fish to sell at the local market. Jack was a simple man, with rough hands and a rugged appearance, but he had a kind heart and a sharp mind.
One day, while fishing near the castle, Jack saw a beautiful princess standing on the balcony, gazing out at the river below. She looked sad and lonely, and Jack felt a sudden pang of sympathy for her.
As he continued to watch, the princess looked down and caught Jack's eye. They stared at each other for a moment, and then the princess smiled and waved. Jack was taken aback by her friendliness, but he smiled back and waved in return.
Over the next few weeks, Jack and the princess continued to exchange waves and smiles whenever they saw each other. It was a small thing, but it brought a bit of light into Jack's otherwise dreary life.
One day, as Jack was preparing his boat for another day of fishing, he heard a voice behind him.
"Good morning, Jack," said Princess Isabella, walking up to him with a basket of fruit in her hand.
Jack turned around, surprised to see the princess standing there.
"Good morning, Your Highness," he said, bowing his head respectfully.
"Please, call me Isabella," she said, smiling at him. "I've seen you fishing here for weeks, and I thought I'd bring you a little something to eat."
Jack felt his heart leap in his chest. He had never spoken to the princess before, and he was both excited and nervous.
"Thank you, Isabella," he said, taking the basket from her. "That's very kind of you."
They stood there for a moment, awkwardly looking at each other. Then Isabella spoke again.
"I'm sorry about my father," she said, her voice low. "He can be... difficult."
Jack nodded, understanding. He knew that the king was a stern man who didn't approve of commoners like him.
"It's alright," he said, trying to sound reassuring. "I'm used to it."
Isabella smiled at him, and Jack felt his heart skip a beat.
"Would you like to come to the castle tonight?" she asked suddenly. "We're having a ball to celebrate my father's birthday. It would be nice to have some company who isn't just interested in my title."
Jack hesitated. He had never been to a ball before, and he wasn't sure if he was dressed well enough to attend.
"I don't know if I'm the right sort of company for a ball," he said, looking down at his rough work clothes.
"Nonsense," said Isabella, putting a hand on his arm. "You're exactly the sort of company I want. Please, Jack?"
Jack looked into her eyes, and he knew he couldn't refuse her.
"Alright," he said, feeling a thrill of excitement. "I'll come."
That night, Jack arrived at the castle, feeling both nervous and out of place. He had never been around so many rich and powerful people before, and he felt self-conscious in his simple clothes.
But as soon as he saw Isabella, all his worries disappeared. She was wearing a beautiful gown, and she looked stunning.
(src:https://www.pinterest.com.mx/pin/586453182729945522/)
----> (to be continued)