Selection : Jason and Amelia

Entering the selection

The morning light streamed through the small windows of Amelia's cottage, casting a warm glow across the room. She awoke with a mixture of excitement and anxiety, the events of the previous evening still fresh in her mind. Today was the day she would fill out the application form for the Selection.

After a quick breakfast with her family, Amelia sat down at the wooden table, her heart racing. The official letter announcing the Selection had arrived, neatly folded and sealed with the royal crest. Her hands trembled slightly as she opened it, the parchment revealing a detailed invitation and instructions on how to apply.

With determination, she spread the form out before her, the elegant script inviting her to share her hopes and dreams. As she looked over the questions, she felt a wave of doubt wash over her. Would her humble background be seen as a disadvantage? Did she have anything to offer that would set her apart from the other contestants?

Taking a deep breath, she began to write. The first question asked about her name and background. Amelia hesitated for a moment but then wrote with honesty, detailing her family's humble life on the outskirts of Illea. Next came questions about her passions and aspirations. She poured her heart into her answers, writing about her love for helping others, her dreams of making a difference in her community, and her hope to bring kindness to the role of a future queen.

With each question, she found herself becoming more confident. Amelia felt a fire igniting within her as she expressed her desire for genuine connection and understanding. She knew that if she were to meet the prince, she wanted him to see her for who she truly was, not just a competitor in a royal competition.

When she reached the final question, which asked why she wanted to participate in the Selection, Amelia paused. Her heart raced as she wrote, "I believe in the power of love and connection. I want to find someone who sees me for who I am and not just my title. I hope to bring joy and compassion to the kingdom, not just for the prince but for everyone."

As she finished filling out the form, Amelia felt a surge of pride. She had poured her heart into this application, and regardless of the outcome, she knew she had been true to herself.

Once she signed her name at the bottom, she carefully folded the form and placed it in an envelope. With a mixture of nerves and excitement, she set off toward the village, where a designated messenger would deliver her application to the palace.

As she walked, her mind raced with thoughts of the prince. What kind of person was he? Did he share her hopes and dreams? Would he appreciate the sincerity in her application?

Upon reaching the village square, Amelia spotted the messenger standing by a small podium. The air buzzed with excitement as other young women arrived, some with their forms neatly folded, others nervously adjusting their dresses. She felt a camaraderie with them, knowing that each of them was seeking the same chance to connect with Prince Jason.

Taking a deep breath, Amelia stepped forward, handing her envelope to the messenger. "I would like to submit my application for the Selection," she said, her voice steady despite the flurry of emotions inside her.

"Thank you," the messenger replied with a nod, taking her envelope and placing it carefully in a larger satchel. "You'll hear back soon about the next steps."

As Amelia turned to leave, she felt a wave of relief wash over her. No matter what happened, she had taken the leap. She had stepped into the unknown and followed her heart, knowing she had done her best.

The excitement in the square continued to grow as young women eagerly discussed their hopes and dreams. Some exchanged stories about their families, while others practiced their introductions for when they would meet the prince. Amelia listened with a smile, feeling a sense of belonging among them.

That evening, as she returned home, the stars twinkled overhead like a promise. The selection process had begun, and Amelia felt a spark of hope in her heart. She hoped to find someone who could see the real her and perhaps, just perhaps, find a connection with the prince that would bring warmth to both their hearts.

As the days passed, anticipation filled the kingdom, and the excitement of the Selection echoed through the streets. Amelia could hardly contain her nerves, waiting for the news that would change her life forever.

Little did she know, her journey was only beginning, and the trials, triumphs, and heartfelt connections that lay ahead would test her resolve in ways she could never have imagined.