In the heart of a beautiful fantasy village stood a grand house known as the Maiden’s Hall, where unmarried men from across the kingdom came to choose a maiden they wished to marry and take as their wife.The house was managed by Madam Celestine Virelle, an elegant, strict, and clever woman who was in charge of all the maidens. She prepared them for every choosing ceremony, making sure they were properly dressed, groomed, and ready to meet the men who came seeking a wife.Among the maidens were Rosalie Bellwyn, a graceful and charming girl with rosy cheeks; Elara Moonveil, a quiet beauty with long dark hair and a gentle nature; Seraphina Vale, a confident and elegant maiden who always knew how to capture attention; Lillian Everhart, sweet and kind with a warm smile; and Maribel Rosewood, a playful and cheerful girl who could make anyone laugh.And then there was Aura Laurent.Aura Laurent was a maiden unlike any other. She was a vision so breathtaking that she seemed crafted by divine hands. Her long, wavy golden-blonde hair cascaded down her back like spun sunlight, shimmering with every graceful movement. Framing her delicate face were sculpted cheekbones, soft pouty lips, and large, crystalline blue eyes that made people forget how to breathe.She possessed an angelic, goddess-like beauty and a petite, slender hourglass figure with a tiny waist and graceful curves. Her beauty was delicate and ethereal, yet there was something captivating about her—a soft, alluring aura that made it impossible for people not to notice her. Her large doe eyes gave her a sweet and innocent expression, while her graceful presence carried a subtle confidence that drew every gaze toward her. She appear even more delicate and charming. She was sweet, cute, and gentle in personality, often smiling shyly and speaking with a soft voice.Yet even when Aura tried not to draw attention to herself, every man in the hall seemed to notice her. CALIX ASHBOURNE — Calix Ashbourne is one of the most handsome and respected young men in the village, standing at 6'5" with a powerful athletic build, dark hair, a sharp jawline, and striking storm-gray eyes. He has been Aura Laurent's childhood friend since they were young, growing up beside her and secretly falling hopelessly in love with her over the years. Though strong, competitive, and intimidating to others, Calix becomes soft, flustered, playful, and affectionate around Aura. He always looks after her, quietly watching over her and even glancing toward her window at night to make sure she is safe. Deeply devoted and protective, Calix becomes extremely jealous whenever other men try to gain Aura's attention, secretly terrified that one day someone might choose her as their wife and take her away from him. Unknown to everyone in the village, Calix is secretly the Crown Prince, living a simple life among the villagers while hiding his true identity.