The King's Command

Eleven years ago...

It’s that girl again. Lately you’ve seen her everywhere. Who is she? She has pretty hair.

“My son, come here,” Queen Laurine calls from across the great hall. “This is Mary and her daughter, Natalie. You two look about the same age. How old are you Natalie?”

The girl shyly hides her face within her waist length auburn hair. Apparently that wasn’t enough because she moves behind her mother.

“She’s seven, Your Grace,” her mother answers with a smile
“Really? She looks older,” you interject.
“Ha-ha Prince!" your mother laughs. "That’s not very nice. One day you’ll learn not to call ladies older than they actually are. Now why don’t the both of you learn to play together?”

Nodding, you move past Mary and grab Natalie’s hand. Leading her through the hallway, you head to the Queen's garden.

“I like this place. There’s lots of colors and different smells,” you comment.
“It’s pretty,” Natalie replies.
“You know you don’t need to be afraid right? My mother is harsh sometimes, but she won’t hurt you.”

Natalie nods.

“You have pretty hair. It reminds me of this place… smelly,” you say with a smile.
“That’s not very nice,” Natalie replies not catching your playful tone.
“Sorry. I didn’t mean it like that.”
“It’s ok. My mother warned me boys aren’t very smart.”

It's your turn to be offended. You start to correct her, but then see the grin appear on her face. You match it with one of your own.

“Tag, you’re it,” Natalie hits your shoulder and take off down the garden path.

You admire her hair flowing behind her like waves as she runs. Then you take off after her.

You have 1 choice: