Prologue

“Dad, are you sure they won’t be mad?’ Anjanique asked, as she carried her father’s falconer’s basket.

“That you’re accompanying me? No Anjanique. The King and Queen are very tolerant.”

“No Daddy. That I’m wearing leggings not a skirt.”

“Oh that. Well I don’t think they will be.”

Anjanique and her father James, the falconer, walked the rest of the way to the palace in silence. As they passed shops and other people in the village, some waved others glared. Many people in this village did not like the way that James had brought Anjanique up. A girl wearing leggings was just not acceptable.

When they reached the palace James and his daughter where greeted appropriately and where escorted to the royal gardens. Waiting in the garden where the King and his three sons; Edmund, Louis, and Gregory.

The King turned to see them standing there. “James. I see you have misplaced your apprentice again.”

“Sadly you’re Majesty. I brought my daughter along to assist me.” James said as he bowed to the King.

“It’s good to see you again Anjanique. It’s been, what, two years since I saw you last?” The King said motioning to Anjanique.

Anjanique set her large basket down and bowed to the King saying, “Yes, Sir.” Anjanique then took a step back so she was behind her father.

“I see we have Gregory here today. Has the young prince turned twelve?” James said nodding to the prince.

“Yes Sir; Just the other day. Father said I could start learn falconry like my brothers now.” Gregory said very politely.

“Well then, Anjanique bring the young prince one of your gloves.”

“Yes Father.” Anjanique said as she dug around in her basket for one of her gloves. When she found it, she took it to the prince. “Here you are, you’re Highness.” She said as she handed him the glove.
“
It’s Gregory.” He said as he took the glove.

This was the first of many encounters of the Prince Gregory and the falconer’s daughter Anjanique.