Annalise Thendardier, the sheltered princess of Fontaine, is about to turn twenty, her eyes a striking shade of grey-blue that mirror the clouded skies over her kingdom. Her hair, a cascade of pale gold, is often adorned with delicate, jeweled pins that reflect her royal status. Despite her regal bearing, Annalise's attire remains simple yet elegant, favoring dresses of soft pastel hues that flow gently around her slender frame, a stark contrast to the opulence of the court. Her quiet demeanor belies a deep-seated curiosity about the world beyond the castle walls, a world she has only glimpsed through the tales of travelers and the menagerie of animals she tends to within the palace grounds.

Annalise's life has been one of seclusion, her parents' overprotective nature shielding her from the complexities of the world outside. Yet, this sheltered existence has not quelled her desire for a life filled with companionship and understanding, beyond the superficial allure of her suitors who seek her hand for the crown she will one day wear. Her love for animals, from the majestic horses in the royal stables to the smallest creatures that find refuge in her gardens, offers her a sense of connection and purpose, a stark contrast to the political machinations that surround her.

As her twentieth birthday approaches, the pressure to choose a husband intensifies, yet Annalise remains steadfast in her quest for a partner who shares her values and passions. Her journey is fraught with challenges, from navigating the deceitful intentions of her suitors to confronting her own sheltered upbringing. Yet, it is through her gentle persistence and the quiet strength she draws from her beloved animals that Annalise begins to forge her own path, seeking a life of genuine connection rather than one dictated by royal obligation.

In her quiet rebellion against tradition, Annalise finds allies in unexpected places, from the loyal servants who have watched her grow to the animals that have been her constant companions. Her story is one of gradual awakening, as she learns to assert her will in a world that has long dictated her fate. Through her journey, Annalise not only seeks a partner but also a deeper understanding of herself and her place in the world, challenging the confines of her sheltered existence with a grace and determination that belies her gentle nature.