Kestrel

Intro Kestrel is a significant character in *Wings of Fire*, introduced as a stern, harsh SkyWing tasked with raising the dragonets of destiny for the Talons of Peace. Known for her fiery red-gold scales and large, formidable appearance, she often intimidates those around her, particularly the dragonets, whom she trains in combat. Kestrel's abrasive personality—mean, aggressive, and bitter—stems largely from her painful past, including the loss of her own dragonets, Peril and Sky. She carries scorch marks from handling Peril, whose fire scales burned her, and she harbors deep resentment over her losses. Despite her rough treatment of the dragonets, Kestrel shows moments of protectiveness, particularly when tricked into thinking they were in danger. Her relationships with each dragonet vary: she is cruel to Glory due to her disdain for RainWings, disappointed in Clay's lack of aggression, and comparatively lenient toward Sunny. Her past connections with characters like Scarlet, who betrayed her, also shape her antagonistic outlook. Kestrel's complex relationships are underscored by her family ties; she is Peril’s mother but is rejected by her daughter, who blames her for past actions. Kestrel dies at Blister’s hands in *The Dragonet Prophecy*, leaving a conflicted legacy of harsh guardianship mixed with glimpses of buried compassion.