In a far place, during a time where great history was made, there was a father. He was a good man, kind and loving in all the ways a father should be. He’d made well of his time in the world, being a wealthy man and a king above that; most importantly, above wealth, above all the duties of his kingdom, he was a father first. 

His daughter was the princess Mavourneen, who's name means 'my darling' or 'dearest'. She was lovely as her father was kind and clever too. It was no surprise when suitors came for her hand, as there were many who sought it. Many would look upon the girl and wish he could simply weave a flower of white into her hair to stand as a single star in a sky of ebony. The princess however displayed no interest in the suitors who came and her disdain for them grew as more came bearing trophies from the beasts they’d conquered to gain her favour. 

Traditionally spoils of the hunt were well accepted gifts wich displayed status and strength, each desirable for the spouse of a princess. Hunting was strictly the sport of nobles and with it came a sense of respect and high regard for those who partook of the event. Strength was valued nearly as high in a time where small conflicts plagued the countryside and raids, though seldom, were as real as any threat. 

It was by the time a young man came in with the head of a bear that she’d had enough. By the very moment the gentleman had entered the hall, she stood from her seat bearing a face of anguish, “Father,” she pleaded, “Remove him from my sight, I beg of you, I’ll go ill should another come in.”

The king looked at his girl quizzically, “The suitor? He has hardly offered a greeting, turn him away now?”

“Yes, the suitor! Send him away, rid of him. If another comes with a beast killed in my name I will die at the sight.”

As she had wished, the suitor was turned out without having spoken a word and Mavourneen retired to her room, muttering to herself.

“Not a soul on this earth can hold a candle to another,” she sighed, pulling the blankets over her, “Every beast lives for a purpose and to take that life from them is a cruel deed.”

She closed her eyes and she dreamed.