Quick brainstorm: What would cause a debutante to be unwilling? What qualities or experiences do they anticipate that make them shirk from what is meant to be a coming-of-age ritual of great import?

- Affectations of rank and file

- ~Bad food (or great food, perhaps)~

- Undue or unwanted attention

- Uncomfortable clothing

- Family expectations; failure of such

- A desire to remain a child (out of love of fun or dislike of adulthood)

- Social anxiety/introversion/misanthropy

- Some weakness that will be revealed by attending

- Bad at a core event/skill

- Distain towards the monarchy/court/their family

______

“I would rather eat puce-colored rutabagas, find them putrid, and toss my guts for the next fortnight than attend to this drivel!”

His father sighed, but simply shook his head and continued to walk before him along the grandly-furnished hallway and, protest though he might, the boy continued to follow him closely.

Plush woven rugs and finely wrought scrollwork made of exotic textiles and woods ensured that the eyes of those marching their way on through would never lack for interest to rest upon—even if one’s gaze intentionally avoided the glassy stares of the numerous vibrant paintings and prominent busts that lined the corridor, as did the boy’s with remarkable dexterity and fortitude.

“Father, it was you who has regaled our family with endless stories detailing just how drab these affairs are, how the only redeeming quality is being able to observe just how vastly ‘these young dandies muck up their introductions’! For what earthly reason must I subject myself to scrutiny and ridicule…”

His father’s voice was stead and unperturbed. “For the same reasons that each of those children stepped forward and met their fates, as you are now; to show one’s metal, to honor Queen and family. To be a man, son—and a man is what I know you to be.” Kenan’s pride stirred to life, overcoming his ire for a moment. Then, his father continued. “Whether any will see that man this day…” He trailed off uncertainly and Kenan’s jaw set.

“We will see indeed, Father.” His thoughts were accompanied by a kind of grim satisfaction. He was ready for this, but doubted that the court would feel the same once he was able to get things started.

“You, and the rest of the court, will all see!”