The first sound was a deep, resonant creak—like the world itself sighing in relief. Statues of long-forgotten kings dripped with melting frost, and the frozen river that wound through the city groaned as it began to flow once more. Sunlight, brighter than any in living memory, spilled across the cobblestones, scattering prisms of color. The people of Eldermere, frozen mid-stride or in their homes for ages, blinked awake, confusion and awe mingling in their eyes.
Clutching their cloaks tighter, the villagers began to gather, their breath curling in the cold air. Faces once frozen in habitual smiles or frowns now flickered with uncertainty. From the balcony above the square, the steely-eyed steward, Baron Morcant, Keeper of the Seal, raised his voice. "People of Eldermere, the curse has lifted, but so too have the shadows of our old rivalries. We must remember who we are—and what was hidden before the frost."
Lady Isolde, Heir of the Western Marches, pushed open a heavy door, her eyes sharp with suspicion as she spotted Sir Cedric, Scion of the Eastern Clans, already searching the vaults. "You always were quick to seek the treasures, Cedric. But the western vaults are under my protection." "We have unfinished business, Isolde. The thaw has changed nothing between us." Their words hung in the dust-moted air, as old wounds flared anew.
Baron Morcant spread a cracked parchment before a gathering of nobles. The map shimmered faintly, lines shifting as if alive. "Here are the lost treasures—gold, wisdom, and perhaps, curses yet undisturbed. But beware, for the thaw may have awakened more than greed." Eyes darted from the map to each other, alliances forming and fracturing in an instant.
Lady Isolde knelt at the chest, her breath trembling. "This must be it—the Crown of Endings. But what if it’s cursed?" Sir Cedric loomed behind her, torn between rivalry and caution. "We risked everything for this moment. Open it, or I will." The chest’s lock clicked open, and a cold wind swept through the chamber.
Baron Morcant stood at the crest, the newly-unearthed crown glinting in his hands, while Lady Isolde and Sir Cedric flanked him, old enmities replaced by wary respect. "Let this be the day we choose unity over discord, and hope over fear. The frost is gone, but our future is ours to shape." The crowd murmured, possibilities sparkling like dew in the morning light, as Eldermere stepped into its new era.
