(Caption) The Noble Lady Who Revived Her Family

He was born into a noble family that had once been powerful but was now in decline. The elders often sighed, lamenting that they no longer had enough wealth or influence to maintain their former status. One day, he heard that the prince of a neighboring kingdom had a unique preference—he wished to marry a boy dressed as a girl, and he would grant great support to that boy's family. To him, this was a chance to restore his family's glory. So, he decided to try.

At first, he stood before the mirror, clumsily holding powder and cosmetics. His fingers trembled slightly, unsure of how much pressure to use. He began by applying a thin layer of foundation, softening his sharp features. Next came the eyeshadow and lashes. After several attempts, he finally saw in the mirror a gentler, rounder gaze. He dabbed a touch of light red on his lips, and his expression changed—the reflection looked like someone else entirely.

After the makeup, he started learning how to arrange his hair. The long locks had been added beforehand, and with a comb he carefully smoothed them from the tips upward to avoid tangles. He tied a bow on one side and curled a few strands, letting them rest on his shoulder. The loose strands falling naturally softened his appearance, hiding the traces of masculinity and bringing him closer to a young lady's look.

The dress was specially tailored. He slipped into a deep blue gown with layered skirts trimmed with white lace. Bows at the waist made his figure appear slender. As he dressed, he moved carefully—first slipping on the gown, then adjusting the ruffles at the chest so the lines looked natural. Finally, he put on long black stockings and shiny blue shoes. Standing before the mirror, he spun lightly. What appeared there was already the image of a refined young lady.

During this process, he slowly learned how to walk more lightly and how to make his gestures softer. He even practiced smiling in the garden with a bouquet in hand, until it looked natural. The family's servants, seeing this transformation, began to believe that this "lady" could truly win the prince's heart.

Not long after, he entered the royal palace with his new identity. The prince, upon seeing her, revealed a satisfied smile. Everything went smoothly, and he became the prince's consort as he had hoped. Once the marriage was confirmed, she returned to her family with the joyful news that the prince had promised to support them. The elders wept with relief—the fallen family finally saw the hope of revival.

She sat in the carriage, gazing out at the sky. In her heart was a sense of duty, but also the stirring of new feelings. The person he once was had already disappeared in the mirror. Now, as she embraced her new identity, she was ready to face the future.