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Death is the singular equalizer.
It twists its way into every family, infects the very air we breathe in, leaving behind only the remains of those who need to be bothered. It cares not for the years you've lived, the wealth you've amassed, the respect you've earned, the life left to live. Misra will not allow for that.
I've known this since my brother was taken so cruelly from me five years ago. I thought the loss of my mother was simply a fluke, a mistake never meant to happen, but upon the death of Corden, I understand that it does not matter a crown will lay upon my head in the next year, that I will never escape Misra's claws.
I can, however, potentially gain respite from the future my father has now bestowed to me. It is certainly something no one would want to complain about, being the future queen of Solere, but throughout every lesson every day, I can never evade the same dream. One of me flying atop the back of a dragon, what I had trained to do up until I turned 14. My father may have banned royals from attending Enverean following the death of my older brother on the front lines, but I am dedicated.
And when I stumble upon an opportunity to make my dreams come true, can I find the courage in myself to stand up to my father and defy his law, follow the path I choose for myself and still lead Solere with benevolence, or will I cower and lower my head once more, submitting to the life chosen for me, rather than by me.
(DISCLAIMER: Several elements of this story are heavily inspired by the work done by Rebecca Yarros in Fourth Wing. I take no credit for these portions of the story.)