Loose Threads

by Fatespeaker

Darkstalker's story leaves us with a lot of questions. Who exactly was Queen Pearl, sister of Fathom? How much did the seer Allknowing really know? What happened to Thoughtful and Whiteout? Where did Clearsight's friend Listener go? These are the loose threads, the forgotten dragons. Let their voices be heard at last. (Collection of soliloquies from different perspectives.)

7. Sunset

7. Sunset

Being princess of the SkyWings isn't as fun as you think!

There's a lot of pressure, a lot of expectations, and a LOT of duties. I may have heaps of treasure (what self-respecting princess wouldn't?), but it comes at a high price. Every step of these talons, every beat of these wings, has a purpose and meaning.

Yes, I was born with this title. That doesn't mean I don't work hard. As Princess Sunset of the Sky Kingdom, I must always serve and protect my fellow SkyWings. Every day, I'm reminded to do my best. I want to help this tribe.

My mother, Queen Carmine, has started watching me. She thinks I haven't noticed the change in her ways. All those little glances - does she think I'm stupid? No, of course not. She taught me well. Too well. She knows that I will soon be ready to lead. One day, maybe soon, I will sit on her throne.

You see, the SkyWings definitely want me as their next queen. Have you seen how popular I am? The mood of the palace is different. Whispered opinions have shifted, ever so slightly, in my direction. Isn't that exciting?

Exciting and scary. Oh, it makes me feel faint. Not in a good way, either.

Look, I don't know how I feel about being queen. It would be an honor, and I know that, as the eldest princess, it's expected of me. I'm just, oh, I'm nervous! There are so many more expectations and duties for a queen - and don't even get me started on the pressure. I'm not ready yet. Will I ever be ready?

I don't know if I could ever kill my mother. I've never killed a SkyWing before. And deep down, very deep down, beneath all of these expectations, I think I love my mother. Could I...could I ever kill a dragon that I love? What if she kills me first? Oh, she definitely would! That's why I can't challenge her yet. Will I ever be ready to challenge her?

I live for my tribe. I have so many ideas. Reaching out more. Mending some of our political errors. Bringing art and spirit back to the SkyWings. If, no, when I have the power, I will do everything I can to help. One day, when I'm queen, I'll do so much good. The world will remember Queen Sunset.

Time to stop dawdling and get out there. I'm an envoy now! Time to prove myself.

I'm sure this will all be just fine. It's only SeaWings (they don't even breathe fire). How badly could tonight even go? Hopefully Queen Lagoon won't bore me to death. Well, wish me luck!