//------------------------------// // Chapter 7 // Story: Sweet Hearts and Princesses // by lollipopchica //------------------------------// “Love is bountiful in this city of ours. My children are strong and our ranks have never been fuller.” The Queen of the Changelings paused as a thoughtful air overcame her. Queen Imaga had become something of a volatile wind to her people. One moment she was the dignified monarch they knew her to be and the next she was molten fury. None knew how to behave in regards to such a capricious nature. Odonata certainly did not know what to make of this bout of lucidity. Electric blue eyes stared at the enigmatic creature that was stretched leisurely across the throne before her. “The world should know of such gems… and they should be in awe of its beauty.” Her tone was lofty as she leaned her head back allowing chocolate tresses to spill around her. “Too long have we been forced to hide and leech like petty thieves. Regarded as abominations and fiends simply because of how we are forced to survive.” The healer knew not how to respond, so she didn’t allowing the pegacorn to continue uninterrupted. “We are survivors- resilient in the face of their attempts and unfounded scorn… And yet they do not treat us as such. The world should love us for our spirit…” Imaga trailed before her thoughtful expression hardened. “But they don’t. And if they won‘t love us willing, then we should make them. Show them what a monster is really like. What do you think, healer?” “I think… you should retrieve our Princess…”Was her cautious reply. "The people would feel more comfortable if she were to stand by your side. The rumors surrounding her absence can only be buried just so deep…” “I think you are right, healer… And I think the sooner the better.” Bright eyes dulled as the monarch seemingly deflated. Imaga‘s tone belied her exhaustion. Gone was her haughtiness as Odonata managed to hide her relief. “Bring her back…so that we all may find rest.”