The Threadmaster Cometh
- When Despereaux comes to, he hears the beating of the mouse drum and the mice calling out that everyone must make way for the Threadmaster.
- As Despereaux lies on the floor and contemplates his horrible situation, Despereaux clings desperately to the idea of "happily ever after." This can't be how it all ends.
- The Threadmaster asks Despereaux to stand up so that he can loop some thread around his neck. Instead of being scary, the Threadmaster tells Despereaux to stay brave for the princess.
- The thread is tied and knotted around Despereaux's neck, and he makes the decision to do as the Threadmaster suggests—to stay brave and strong for the princess.