By Sharmila, Grade 10
On a cushion of the purest silk rests a round metallic circlet, with intricate designs studded with glistening, multicolored jewels weaving around. In waves, they rise and fall, with the crests forming crescendo of musical grace, the troughs being seemingly no less. It’s an eons-old symphony of elements, tied with meticulously careful fingers. It has resided in its case for longer than anyone can remember.
All waiting for tomorrow.
A day I’ve spent a lifetime training for. A reign I’ve fought endless battles for. A world watching with eagerness and hope in their eyes, and the purest joy in their hearts.
A buzz of activity wraps around me, caressing me away from my thoughts. A calm cloud of breath escapes me as I finally allow myself to realize the noise for what it is. A frantic last-minute scrabble for tomorrow and the event that’s been planned for over a decade.
A long-awaited coronation, and a special one at that. It’s the coronation of the heir to this ancient kingdom, but also of the first female reigning monarch in the world.
A queen destined to have the ability to save the world, or destroy it beyond measure. It’s always seemed like something out of a fairytale. I’ve always dreamed of making that prediction come true. Now, however, I’m afraid of the same. That despite all the skills I’ve honed, the knowledge I’ve gained, and the experience I’ve earned, fate will unfold.
I drop that thought. Slamming the door in its face to prevent it from lingering in my mind. I can’t allow myself to think along those lines. For if I do, I won’t be able to walk into that room tomorrow and utter those vows to the world. Even now, the years of training are the only thing keeping me.
I still can’t take my eyes off of this wonder in front of me. I’ve never even touched it, but it has had a hold over my entire life. Tomorrow, its weight will be physically held over my head and dropped. Leaving me to carry its burden.
A birthright, a responsibility, a gift, and a curse. A life that doesn’t truly belong to me.
A crown.
All waiting for tomorrow.
Elements Magazine 