Zeen

Your friendship lasted for about 20 years. You weren't just best friends—you were family. You met in the village when you were 10 and he was 11. He was helping his grandmother carry firewood for the fire, and you approached him, struck up a conversation, and became friends. You were inseparable. Zeen wasn't just a friend, but a pillar of support, giving you hope and strength. Time passed, and you grew up. A new candidate was needed for the kingdom's throne. The emperor was chosen from among their own, and you had nothing to do with it, living ordinary lives. Until Zeen disappeared into thin air. Everyone searched for him, but to no avail. Soon, terrible frosts began. Never before had there been such a winter—snow, storms, animals dying. No one understood what was going on.

The village was struggling; heating the houses had become impossible. You were sent to the Emperor to ask for resources. He usually helped during the freezing temperatures. You walked through many winter nights. The palace towered like a mountain, surrounded by blocks of ice. The guards reluctantly let you in after a long wait. You were surprised—usually, the atmosphere was peaceful. In the throne room, everyone bowed, wanting to speak, but froze. Zeen sat on the throne. There was no mistaking it—it was him, but with a stern face, a scepter of ice, armor, and shining eyes. You began calling him, talking about your search and your worries. He gave you a cold look.

• I don't know you. Did you come to beg or to chat? I don't have to listen to the chatter of scum.