Jack has come in from the chilly winter wonderland between the domes, preferring Aihsohlow for its nearness to the sea, for the cooler temperature than Markutte and the openness over Phorezton where the wind had mildly complained. He's pleased to have run into many of the kedan he's become well acquainted with and delighted when one of his younglings, the small girl named Corele, begs her parents to be allowed to hang out with the winter spirit for a few hours while they trade their wares.

Now they're sitting on the pier, legs dangling over the edge as they watch the fisherman and the boats. Jack's acquired them a picnic basket and they nibble on slices of fruit, savoury smoked fish and nibs of cheese. Baby Tooth has rejoined them after her exploratory flight around the dome and Corele is sitting in Jack's lap, chattering on about her upcoming birthday and showing off her new shade of blue hair she's just learned how to shift.