The Golden Valley Myth

In the mountains North of the Golden Valleys lived hideous creatures that were feared by the humans living in the South. Though they were never seen, it was said that they lurked in the shadows, waiting patiently for the perfect moment to strike. Despite the obvious lack of clear evidence of the existence of said creatures, countless tales and songs existed.
Those stories centered around a legend that really existed, for it was experienced on the longest night of the year, when one of the many princesses of the Golden Valleys would vanish in thin air. Presented with a threat that couldn’t be battled, the kingdoms of the Golden Valleys couldn’t defend themselves against the monsters that took their daughters.
Occurring every year, the number

Though she insisted that was too old for the fairy tales, her maid would keep telling them every night. Therefore, Sera knew that she couldn’t lean against the wooden door forever.
Tonight’s soiree had been a true disaster, she was willing to admit that much.
Animosity between the princesses of the Golden Valleys had spoiled the soiree and Sera had found herself the target of the mockery.
Usually, they would pick one of the younger, less experienced girls, but Sera had known that eventually they would figure out that she hadn’t received one single proposal yet.
Not even a merchant looking for a title had bothered to ask for her hand.
In the Golden Valleys, a collection of many kingdoms, fairy tales became reality, which could only mean that her Prince Charming was waiting somewhere. For all Sera knew, he was extremely shy or had fallen terribly ill.
When her cousin who had hosted the soiree had announced her engagement, all eyes had been on Sera, whose envy had shown in her eyes.
A knock on the door startled Sena and she jumped aside, almost tripping over the hem of her gown, hearing the fabric

Reminding herself of the fact that it would taint her reputation beyond repair wasn’t enough to dismiss the crazy idea to lure her Prince Charming out of hiding. Moreover, the more she thought about it, the better a plan it seemed.
She would be turning twenty soon, which meant that she couldn’t afford to wait much longer. Besides, the bon ton would pick another victim if she married someone, which was a plus, for Sera preferred to be the one who spread gossip, over being the one the rumors were about.
However, she didn’t have much time left to go over her plan, for the winter solstice would be celebrated tomorrow night.
Usually, she spent the longest night in fear of the monster, who would come for her sooner or later. Regardless of her fear for the other side of the wall, she wasn’t scared of the winter solstice this year, ridiculous plans occupying her mind.
How long would it take before a prince would come after her?
This was the Golden Valley, the place where fairy tales were spun.
Anything was possible.
If she listened closely, Sena could hear the anticipation of another story in the air–her