Prologue
The nervous queen flapped her wings and lifted off. She was headed toward the Scorpion Den, where Smolder was keeping everyone well fed. The Outclaws had become her main advisors, so Smolder was there with Blaze making sure everyone was safe and not dying. She had gone out there before. Eight times to make sure everything was going smoothly, but once to meet him. Because Queen Thorn of the Sandwings had fallen in love with Former Prince Smolder of the Sandwings. And now she was with egg. She had to tell him. She had left Six-claws in charge of the castle while she was away. She landed just outside the Scorpion Den entrance and waited. She didn't have to wait long.
"Your Majesty! Whatever might you be doing here so early in the day?" gasped Smolder.
"Enough of that. I need to tell you something very important." She took a deep breath. "I am with egg. Your egg."
Smolder shook his head sadly, turned, and flew away. Forever.