Hey, @marie-jay.

I'm not sure which came first, the image or the story, but I like how both fit pretty well together.

A tragic tale, but one where the protagonist embodies the adages, "Hope springs eternal" and "True love is forever." Unfortunately, both were true only for him.

But in reality for us to be truly happy, we're the ones who have to have hope and love in our hearts, regardless of the circumstances. I'm not sure pining over a princess who apparently has forgotten you (or been convinced to do so) is the proper person to place affection upon, but still, it's hard to blame the country boy.

Especially after he faced the dreaded dragon and won!

But I guess the entire city/kingdom got their just desserts trying to keep the two apart. :)

Great short story. Nice twist ending. Very much enjoyed it. :)