Homes razed. Land scorched. Lives lost.
In the wake of great tragedy, Queen of the Kirin Rain Shine must make a fateful choice.
Whether she wants to or not.
This story was written for the 2023 'Sovereign Rulers 4' contest, using the prompt Rain Shine / Loyalty.
As if the burdens of leadership weren't bad enough, imagine having to moderate an entire society of living incendiaries just waiting for an excuse to ignite. Rain Shine's position is a most unenviable one, and one in dire need of outside input. The ponies coming in with forms of conflict resolution unknown to kirin-kind was a bit stilted, but it's still better than looking inside for answers that have to come from without.
Great work in capturing the challenge Rain Shine faced, and in presenting a deeper look at kirin culture. Thank you for it and best of luck in the judging.