easter at the freehold

The winter was a time to reflect on what had been lost, huddled together in the fire-warmed room that delicately lit red and gold baubles, casting shadows on the walls. Sweet sorrow hung in the air, fueling the deepest love and sympathies. But the chill of that dark season had passed, and the crown moved on. Just as it always had, the creatures emerged from shady, small burrows out into the sunlight of Spring. Buds opened to reveal delicate, soft petals that scented the air, clouds of pink and white that stood out against dark wooded branches and cast their glow against the park's pond.

The Freehold would meet outside today, looking from an outsider's view like any sort of family gathering, a typical Easter celebration outside on a lovely day. But insiders knew the truth. Yes, it was partially in honor of the holiday, but beyond that it was a celebration of hope and happiness. The significance was not lost on the royalty, knowing full well why every culture shared this story. Religious or not, everyone knew that this was the season that followed the strings of fate to stories of rebirth and new growth. A new beginning, something that they perhaps knew better than anyone.

The Royalty arrived, but far be it from them to look better than everyone else, they dressed modestly, in a floral print that even the massive Summer King had indulged in. He declined being the one to hide the eggs this year. Every time that he did, they would be found immediately because all savvy eyes trailed his antlers through the park. Clover doted over her children, watching them as the two older ones chased each other to and fro, holding the youngest one to her hip.

Cassanda, along with the rest of the Darklings, hid under the shade of the gazebo. The sunlight was naturally harsh on them, but even they had reason to be happy. The two sisters leaned into each other, Anya gnawing happily at a pile of strawberries while Zora gorged herself on chocolates. Nearby, Klara sat hunched over a number of boiled eggs, running the brush over the white shells and smiling as memories of the old techniques of painting eggs slowly came back to her.

Luka sat by the lake, staring as orange and white fins rippled at the surface. He just couldn't stay away, could he? Even in a park pond Alois paddled just underneath the surface, taking pleasure in popping up and scattering the ducks. Luka laughed. Even if he was being silly, it was always good to see Alois happy. The Spring Queen couldn't help but take a dip herself, seeing to sink and disappear beneath the rippling water. A chance to let loose before her reign would begin proper.

The day ended with baskets filled to the brim with eggs and chocolates which everyone got sent home with, and even more made up for those who couldn't attend. A smile on every face, happiness even for those who had every reason to be upset, was the real prize of the day. Some of them may have been broken, some with scars both mental and physical, but through it all, they had each other. Kindred spirits to laugh and love with. And for many, they truly felt at home.