Annalise Thendardier, the sheltered princess of Fontaine, a kingdom inspired by the elegance and grandeur of 1700s-1800s France, is on the cusp of her twentieth birthday. Her eyes, a striking shade of grey blue, reflect the quiet and contemplative nature that defines her. Raised within the opulent confines of the royal palace, Annalise has been shielded from the complexities of the world outside. Her life, a tapestry of royal duties and the looming expectation of marriage, is one of isolation and preparation for her future role as queen. Yet, amidst the silks and the jewels, her heart finds solace and joy in the company of animals, a passion that has grown from the few creatures she has been allowed to keep within the palace walls.

Annalise's deepest desire is to understand the world beyond the palace gates, to connect with the people she is destined to rule. Her sheltered upbringing, orchestrated by her protective parents, stands as a formidable barrier to this wish. Determined to break free from her gilded cage, she begins to secretly explore the kingdom, disguised in simple attire, her unique quirk being her inability to resist helping any creature in distress, often speaking to them in a soft, soothing voice that seems to calm even the most agitated beast.

Her explorations lead her to form bonds with the common folk and to discover the true needs of her kingdom. Through these clandestine journeys, Annalise gains the knowledge and empathy necessary to become a compassionate ruler. Her actions, driven by a genuine desire to serve her people, gradually win their hearts, and she finds a way to influence her parents' decision on her suitors, advocating for a partner who shares her vision for Fontaine.

As she approaches her coronation, Annalise's journey from a sheltered princess to a wise and beloved queen unfolds. Her path is fraught with challenges, including the machinations of nobles who seek to undermine her rule and the delicate balance of maintaining her royal duties while pursuing her personal freedom. Yet, it is her unwavering commitment to her people and her kingdom that ultimately guides her to a reign marked by justice and compassion, proving that even the most sheltered heart can grow to embrace the world with open arms.