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[freezespirited]

[No one can see him, not even himself. He forgot a long time ago what he looks like, and he wonders if anyone even remembers who he is. Not that he can exactly go and ask someone. He holds onto his cloak, digging his hands into the fine, intricately detailed fabric, more of a decoration than a barrier against the cold. Snow falls wherever he walks, sticking to the ground a bit longer than normal snow. He talks to himself to keep himself company, mostly commenting on anyone else he sees. The curse missed his voice, even if it silenced it from everyone else. Right now he follows someone carrying groceries.]

Heading home?

[No answer.]

People are talking that there could be a blizzard. [No they're not.] Sure that's enough if you're stuck in your...whatever you call what you live in?

[No answer.]

[So he tries harder. He talks and talks, about the mundane and the extraordinary, until without thinking, he gives one light tug to the bag, causing the person to drop it, ruining everything and making a mess. Jack laughs, loudly and a little wild. He feels a little guilty afterward, but no real harm done, right? Now that the distraction's over, his mood sours once again. He doesn't know what else to do, but what other choice does he have but to keep trying? The snow whips around him violently, as he wanders, looking for someone new to follow.]

Comments

[freezespirited]

[He has enough sense to duck his head apologetically, a self-deprecating kind of smile on his face.]

Then you understand far more than I. I don't even-- I've never been in a realm like yours before. I don't know how it works, besides follow your rules.

[coimiceoir]

Then this is the best of times for you to join us. The festival of the Solstice is one of friendship, communication between mortals and the People, learning, and a renewal of life! The doors in the mist are thrown wide, and our laws relaxed that all might speak and enjoy themselves. Harm no living thing, keep to the common courtesies, and walk freely among us. Even questions hold no hidden dangers while the festival continues - no debt shall be gained, even for the most fraught questions.

[She smiles, warm and a little mysterious.]

Of course, any might refuse to answer a question, but then so might any mortal.

[freezespirited]

My questions are few, and are often given vague answers, but I admit I kind of want to see this festival. It has to be more entertaining than this place. You have my word as a Prince, I will abide by your rules-- [His attention is distracted by a different subject.] Are there any games?

[He looks at her, this time with a hint of hope. Then there's that question left unsaid: Will others see him too?]

[coimiceoir]

[A bright smile lights her face and her laugh rings out merrily. For a moment she is less a queen and more a young girl delighted by her companion.]

I cannot say that the answers will be any less vague, but ask away, should you think of any! And what would a festival be without games? Contests of sorcery and arms, drinking and song, races, jousts, the making of food... The younger folk are already engaged in a game of tag, and the greybeards are telling stories and playing with dice and board games. If you know of any new games to add, there are plenty who would be glad to learn!

But come, Cousin, you say you are a prince, and so I had divined, but you have not yet given me to know what you prefer to be called. I do not ask your True Name, naturally, and there are none in my realm who will willingly give their own, but we cannot simply call "Prince!" into the trees and hope that you will come.

[freezespirited]

[He relaxes, losing some of his regal demeanor and beaming in excitement.]

It sounds like you have plenty of games already. But I'll see what I can think up.

You couldn't possibly expect me to abandon tree-climbing simply because I am being called! Where would the fun in that be? But you're right. Prince is such a generic title. You might call me Frost, if you'd like. People say it whether I like it or not. But what of you? Shall I call you Queen, or is there another you prefer to go by?

[coimiceoir]

My own folk more frequently refer to me as The Lady. Should you ask for me by that name, they shall guide you to me. Mortals more often call me Dream. Whichever you so use, I shall hear of it. Then you will join us, at least for a little while, yes?

[freezespirited]

If it's a choice between wandering and games, I'll always choose games. At least for a little while, The Lady.

[coimiceoir]

[She laughs and gestures him on toward the forest.]

Just Lady will be fine, Frost. Come! They're waiting to find out who I shall bring back with me.

[With a quick mischievous smile befitting a young girl, she lifts her skirts out of the way of her grey-slippered feet and leans a little forward.]

Can you keep pace?

[freezespirited]

Well, we wouldn't want to keep them waiting any longer.

[He smirks, then crouches down, palms on the ground and feet back, as if ready to sprint.]

With most? Yes. Even the Wind.

[coimiceoir]

[Her eyes sparkle with interest and she's off, a pale blur, laughter, and a fading of spring as she vanishes into the trees.]

[freezespirited]

[He races off, a trail of falling snow left in his wake, laughter riding on the wind as it playfully dances past his face. He's fast. Not as fast as her.]