He is writing a book," said the King, following them out into the sunny, crisp gardens. "About the gardens here. We have two of his books already. Library, north side, O. What say you, Miss Azalea? Does he pass that list of your sisters'?"

Azalea cocked her head. Was the king actually teasing her?

"He'll have to shave," she said, deciding to take his lead.

"And what," said the King, stroking his own close-trimmed beard, "is wrong with whiskers?"

Azalea laughed, surprised at the King's uncharacteristic funning.

Auteur: Heather Dixon Wallwork