The Lost City of Pacioceana

"Sierra, It's not safe here", Kriolis told his daughter. "You know what will happen."

"Yes", replied Sierra, "But, not yet father. Think about the others. Pacioceana may never be found. Then what?"

"I know what I am doing." Kriolis turned around and looked out the window. "Forgive me." He said into the wind. " I believe this is only right. We will not survive here with this time." Sierra left and went to her room.

She sat by her window holding an old brown box. She blew off the cobwebs and the dust, and opened it. Inside was a shimmering golden crown, with rubies and jewels made into it. In the box was also a golden heart locket. Inside was a picture of her mom on 1 side and a note on the other. Sierra wiped a tear from her cheek and began to read.

My dear Sierra,

I am ill. I may be leaving soon. Take this crown. The time will come when you shall wear this crown. I fear I will not be there to see you when you do. You will grow into a wonderful girl, and take your rightful place as Paciocean's queen. I only hope you will wear this necklace with pride and remember that no matter what happens, i will always be there to help you. I love you.

--- Mom

Sierra wore the necklace and stared at the crown tears streamed down her cheek.

Sierra woke up the next morning. She looked at the time. 9:00 am. At 9;30 she will be crowned the queen of Paciocean and her father will host the ceremony.  It was a big day.

9:30 Sierra stood on the stage. Her father had just finished a heartfelt speech. He walked up to her and smiled. He lifted up her current crown and placed it on a pillow beside him. He opened the box a gently placed the crown on her silky, wavy, brown hair. Her green eyes shone with intelligence and wonder. Kriolis smiled as he saw the golden locket. He the took her hand and held it high. "Today," He said," Sierra Ann Hudson becomes Paciocean's new queen!"

He looked at her once again and took off his crown. He held it tight, bent down and bowed.  He got up again and told his daughter, "You look like you mom."They held hands and waved to the crowd.

30 minutes later, Sierra was back at her window wearing her crown when suddenly the ground shook. Her crown fell out the window. "NO!" She screamed. The ground shook more and buildings crashed. Her lamp felled down and a fire began. She put it out and screamed. She ran through the dust to get to her dad but everything was foggy. Sierra's had bumped against her bed. The last thing she saw was her father's hand reaching out to her through the dust. She held it tight. Then everything went black.