Winter's Handmaiden
She is winter's handmaiden, the only flame burning in the middle of a field of snow.
How could she come into this cold world with such kindness? It befuddles his mind. She helps crying candleholders find their mates, pets whining footstools until they roll over for a scratch on their wooden bellies.
In the beginning, there had been tears and confusion. He supposed that anyone would shout in fear at a talking, singing wardrobe. Now that this world is an everyday one for her, she glided among them, a snow-gilt rose.
How can she do it?
He wants to know.