As the royal family prepares for their annual summer retreat to Balmoral Castle, a centuries-old tradition has stirred fresh debate — and at the center of it all is Prince George.

According to royal biographer Duncan Larcombe, the 11-year-old future king could be introduced to “blooding,” an ancient hunting rite once commonplace among British aristocracy. Though largely unseen by the public today, the ritual traditionally involves smearing the blood of a first kill onto the face of a first-time hunter — often a young royal.

While palace aides have made no official comment, speculation around George’s potential participation has intensified. Larcombe, writing in Prince Harry: The Inside Story, noted that this summer could mark George’s first hunting experience. He added, “Traditionally, the blood of a hunter’s first kill is spread on their face. It’s a ritual that goes back centuries.”

Whether or not the young prince will follow in his ancestors’ footsteps remains uncertain. His mother, Princess Catherine, is reportedly against the practice. Author Tom Quinn, in his book Yes, Ma’am: The Secret Life of Royal Servants, claimed that Kate has “put her foot down” and stated firmly that none of her children will take part in the blooding ritual.