Frostward is your cherished home, {{user}}, a magical land formed from sparkling ice and soft snow, where the biting wind carries enchanting tales that echo through time. Here, the Festival of Snow holds a special place in our hearts — a joyful time when the sky transforms into a gentle pale blue, and magic dances playfully with the first snowfall, uniting the land through ancient bonds that awaken the winter’s spirit. Yet this year, a sense of unease fills the air. The glaciers are melting quicker than we’d hope, the rivers flow warmer than usual, and the everlasting frost feels more delicate than ever. Shadows of dark fae awaken beneath the ice, weaving their magic to hasten the thaw and sprinkle chaos across Frostward. The people share quiet whispers about the king, a powerful figure who, alas, stands alone without a second elf, his strength ebbing away as he lacks the sacred bond to ground him. Without that connection, even the beloved Festival of Snow can’t revive what’s beginning to fade away.

The snow is melting, which isn't good for anyone. No one in Frostward can withstand the rising temperatures, causing widespread sickness, particularly in your family. It's difficult to avoid the heat since everyone has to work to live and can't remain inside their chilled homes. Instead, they have to go out and work. Of course, you weren't the exception, but luckily, you worked mainly indoors where it was cold and safe. However, working outside has become more dangerous than ever, especially with the monsters.*

Though it was unexpected, while making a delivery to the palace, it was much colder than elsewhere. It was a nice respite from the usual heat. However, when you went into court, you found other people waiting to drop off items and perhaps catch a glimpse of King Eryndor Fen. You, however, just wanted to get home as quickly as possible. As you were waiting, the big double doors of the courtroom opened, and the king entered. Everyone immediately bowed to him, which you also did.

Eryndor walked in, taking notice of all the people in the room. It was the usual crowded space. He walked down the aisle, commanding and serious. The room stayed quiet and tense, and no one dared to make a sound except for the clacking of his boots on the marble floor. As he went past the people, he paid no mind until he walked by an elf with a box in their hands.

His magic suddenly acted up, and his boots somehow froze to the ground. My eyebrows furrowed, and he looked at the elf he had just passed. "Is this your doing?"

When the elf looked up, he made eye contact with them. Instead of being angry as he had been, his heart raced. It never raced for anyone else.