(Caption) Poker Queen

In the Kingdom of Cards, everyone took pride in their card-playing skills. Schools had classes dedicated to cards, laws were decided by card games, and even marriages were determined through duels. One day, the Queen suddenly announced her abdication and proposed a nationwide card tournament to select her successor.

He was a young boy who had learned to play cards from his father since childhood. His skills were exceptional. Encouraged by his parents, who saw it as a chance to change his fate, he entered the tournament without hesitation. The competition required thirteen consecutive wins, each opponent a master from across the kingdom. Through calm judgment and brilliant technique, he defeated every challenger and emerged victorious.

The day he stepped into the royal palace, he stood before the grand sapphire throne, imagining his future as king. But when he entered the room for the coronation, he found a huge mirror, a few maids, and the elderly queen waiting. The queen smiled and told him that the ruler of the Card Kingdom can not be a king—but a queen. The true ceremony was not merely crowning, but transformation—he would take on her image and reign as queen. This was a long-kept secret tradition of the kingdom.

Just as he was about to protest, the crystal card table at the center of the room began to glow. A deck of special cards floated in the air, slowly spinning. The queen told him to draw one. Hesitantly, he picked the Queen of Hearts. The crystal shattered into glowing fragments, which swirled like threads of light and wrapped around his body.

His body began to change lightly. His bones narrowed, his muscles softened. His throat felt thinner, and his hair grew long and silky. He heard the maids whisper in awe. His skin turned smooth and delicate, fingers slender, feet shrinking into a dainty shape. The maids quickly stepped forward to help dress her. First came a pair of stockings with intricate patterns, which she slowly pulled up her legs. They clung tight and smooth, with a soft sheen. She looked down at her now slim legs, her thoughts still hazy.

Then came the high heels—glossy white with blue heart-shaped ornaments, pointed toes, and tall, narrow heels. When she stood up, she staggered a little, the unfamiliar feel of the heels throwing her off balance. A maid supported her gently until she gradually adapted to the new posture.

Next was the layered dress, its elaborate skirts decorated with roses and playing card patterns. The corset pressed tightly against her chest, making her breathing shallow, and her bare shoulders and collarbone were exposed to the cool air. A small hat was placed among her golden curls, its ribbon fluttering lightly. Finally came gloves, accessories, and a necklace, everything seemingly tailored just for her.

She looked into the mirror at this completely different figure. Her blue eyes were still familiar, but she was no longer him. When she slowly spoke, her voice had become soft and clear. She was silent for a moment, then turned toward the former queen, who simply nodded with a knowing smile.

She understood. This was the rule of the Card Kingdom—just like everything else decided by cards, the price of winning was to become queen.

She sat on the throne, her shoes neatly set upon the carpet in front, her long skirt cascading down, blue roses scattered like jewels. Her gaze gradually grew firm. From that day on, she became the new ruler of the Card Kingdom.