Chapter Text
If one were to ever dissect the world of the magnificent Regnum Risus- its intricate twelve Kingdoms, their rulers, or even touch upon the Great Defy War- it would take them around 17 eternities, two lifetimes, and a quarter. I have calculated these numbers myself and must assure you, I am a trustworthy source. As one of the greatest scribes Regnum Risus has ever known, it is my purpose to write stories, to imprint them forever onto pages, to press pages into books and sort books into stacks and columns and arches that reach the ceiling.. My home is a magnificent library of the vast cultures of our Kingdoms, traditions and songs and stories long gone.
Yet. Documenting the world of Regnum Risus in its entirety is a feat reserved for the brave, of which I am none. A feat for another scribe, perhaps. For another story, another book, another column…
But as I observe the snowflakes dancing gently outside my window and the ground becomes coated in a thick pearly blanket, I am reminded of a certain royal two Kingdoms away whose face is just as icy. Now that is a story I know much about, a story I can tell. Would you like to hear it?
My fireplace crackles, I trace the backs of book after book until I’ve landed on the one. The kettle whistles, I pour the tea, the room fills with a scentful melody of cinnamon and ginger– it’s going to be a long night. I’d offer you a blanket, dear reader, but it appears my kitten, Buttons, has fallen asleep atop it. The fireplace will have to do. I hope you’re warm enough, for this is no ordinary story. It delves into the snowiest of peaks and iciest of hearts, so hold your steaming teacup tightly and snuggle up to the fire.
This is the story of the lonely Jester and the Queen who never laughed.