Around midnight, the ball dance ended and all of the guests left. Starlight felt incredibly satisfied with how much progress she made in restoring hope to her new kingdom. Maybe her whole world got restored too. Starlight knew her mother would be proud that she took all she got and dedicated her time into healing everyone and everything. Even if the darkest days took a toll on her plans, she managed to pass them with all she learned from the experience. For quality time, she wanted to see if Sundown Shadow had anything else he wanted to tell Nova X. She found him on the east side of the palace gardens, looking out at the mountains and watching some stars twinkle in the sky. The moon made him feel so comfortable that it was clear that he was enjoying how the night sky showed him all of the stars. Starlight always believed that Sundown Shadow always had a deep connection to the night. She didn't judge him, she loved the beauty the night had. Starlight sat down next to Sundown Shadow. He was alarmed for a minute but, he calmed down once he saw her. "Don't sneak up on me like that, Starlight. You almost made me feel like I was gonna get the wooden stake to my heart." "Sorry, Father. I didn't mean to freak you out." Starlight apologized. Sundown Shadow smiled and patted Starlight on her head. "You're fine. Now, what did you come to me for? Is there some stranger around the castle or is Chancellor annoying you again?" Sundown Shadow asked, his fangs appearing in a protective way. Starlight saw this side, meaning that he was showing his purpose of guarding the castle from an unawaring disaster. She chuckled in delight. "No, Father. I wanted to ask you something. Did you have any last words that you wanted my mother to hear from you before you guys divorced?" From those words, Sundown Shadow felt a wave of sadness hit him. He turned away and took a moment to toughen up so he wouldn't get emotional in front of his daughter. "I-I did. I wanted to tell her that I loved her and that it didn't need to be this way. She just chose to banish me and you away with no second thought. The answer as to why still isn't answered. But after that, I grew apart from her and found that I don't always have to look for love instantly after I start feeling like my life is falling down." Sundown Shadow answered Starlight. She nodded, understanding everything. Starlight felt happy that their relationship has ended and they became friends. They honestly looked a lot better as friends since they actually smile at each other and laugh throughout the day. "So, should there be anything to be worried about now since my mother is finally herself again?" "Besides people who may try to break into the castle, not at all. You made yourself a good Queen. A reign like yours has a lot of love, care and warmth that'll last through time and time again. Endless time, it feels like." Sundown Shadow smiled down at Starlight, his fangs glinting. Starlight then hugged him tightly, sharing some compassion. He hugged her back, holding her in his protective arms, shielding her from any sign of danger. A few minutes passed and the hug ended. Sundown Shadow then watched as Starlight headed back inside of the castle. He hoped that someday, Starlight would be able to let her own future kids learn the life of independence, courage and kindness.
Just a random spoiler for part 2, Starlight gets the time to finally get to know some of Sonic's friends. :3 Dark matters so warning!! Thanks! :)
