Samodiva: A Bulgarian folktale¹ Once upon a time there lived a young beauty, whose name was Samodiva. She was a princess in a small kingdom, tucked away among the enchanted hills of mountain Emos. Her father was king Charismat. The king was wise and was much loved by the people, who had long lived in peace and prosperity under his rule. The mother of the princess, queen Delikacia, was as beautiful as the fertile valleys in the kingdom in spring. Delikacia was a woman kind and delicate and she died giving birth to her daughter. Charismat’s heart was full of sorrow but he poured out all his remaining love and kindness on the little princess. When she grew up, stories of her incredible beauty travelled beyond the borders of her kingdom. And she was not only beautiful but clever too. So much so that others often seemed too stupid. King Charismat provided the princess with the best schooling. Besides, she proved an excellent huntress, was very skillful and talented in the arts too, especially in music. No one could resist the beauty and charm of Samodiva. Princes and other noble men from near and far came to ask her hand continue...