"It works for some people, just not for me," Jack replied. "What kind of boring season would it be if winter started on exactly the same day every year?"

Noting the scowl and the way the kedan child scurried away (though Jack was relieved to see that he was soon after engrossed once more in his snowy treat), the winter spirit studied Damian for a moment, wondering if he'd said something wrong but then went with his instinct.

"I think if you have to ask a question like that, you should probably stay," he replied. He took two empty cups and scooped them both full of snow, offering the pots of syrup for Damian to choose from. "Here, I'm going to have one too. I think I know better than to ask what's up, but I can't really expect you to talk if you're busy eating anyway."