The Frozen Throne

Blair pressed her palms against the ice window of her castle tower. The glass felt colder than usual today, which seemed impossible. Her breath formed small clouds as she watched the border between her Ice Kingdom and the Fire Kingdom shimmer in the distance.

"Your Majesty, the council awaits," announced Captain Frost, her most trusted guard. His silver armor clinked as he bowed.

She turned from the window. "Tell me, Captain, do you ever wonder what warmth feels like?"

Captain Frost's weathered face showed surprise. "Warmth is the enemy, my Queen. It melts our strength."

Blair nodded slowly, but her green eyes lingered on the distant flames dancing along the border. She had ruled this frozen realm since she was sixteen, making decisions that kept her people safe from the Fire Kingdom's heat. Yet lately, her dreams were filled with golden sunlight and gentle breezes.

A horn sounded from the watchtower. Three short blasts meant one thing—visitors approached from the Fire Kingdom.

The Messenger's Arrival

Blair hurried down the spiral staircase, her boots clicking against the ice steps. Captain Frost followed close behind, his armor clanking with each step.

"What kind of visitors?" Blair asked, pulling her starry robe tighter around her shoulders.

"A single messenger, Your Majesty. He carries a white flag."

They reached the great hall where a young man stood waiting. His red cloak dripped melting snow onto the frozen floor. Steam rose from his warm breath in the cold air.

"I am Marcus, baker from the Fire Kingdom," he said with a respectful bow. "King Blaze sends this message."

He handed Blair a sealed scroll. The wax seal bore the symbol of a flame. Blair's heart jumped as she broke it open. The parchment felt surprisingly warm in her cold fingers.

"The Fire King requests a meeting at the border tomorrow at sunrise," she read aloud. "He wishes to discuss... peace?"

Captain Frost stepped forward. "It's obviously a trap, Your Majesty."

But Blair stared at the message, her green eyes wide with curiosity. Peace had never been offered before. What could this mean?