The Lady rose from her frozen throne. She watched the young women curiously. She did not understand the emotions that poured from the pair. She only knew that her job was complete.

Without uttering a word, she lifted her arms towards the heavens. Her body shimmered and splintered into millions of crystallised particles. A wind blew in, catching each and every one. It surged out of the cave, and began its 6,965 kilometre trek, over the Southern Seas. The snow across Southern Africa followed in her wake.

The pair exited the cave holding hands. They stepped out into the sunny warmth and gazed at the defrosting land.

“Any idea how to get home?” Vuyisa asked.

Ntando laughed. “Not a clue, but I’m going to trust that it will work out.”

“How did you even find me?”

Ntando laughed even harder. “By following my dreams and my heart.”

Vuyisa stopped and gave her friend a kiss. “Oh girl, I’m sorry,” she said. “I really, really don’t know what came over me. You are the most important person to me in all the world.”

Ntando kissed her back. “It’s OK.”

Vuyisa shook her head. “No, it isn’t. But thank you for not giving up on me. Thank you.”

Ntando smiled. “I didn’t do it for thanks.”

Vuyisa opened her mouth to reply, when they heard the rumble of an engine. A flashy 4×4 slowed to a stop and a young woman flew out.

“Kay,” Gerda called, “it’s them! We’ve found them.”

The pair ran toward Gerda, and enveloped her in a large hug. Laugher radiated outwards and autumn flowers began to bloom.

“How did you know where to find us?” Ntando said.

Gerda smiled. “Oh, a little bird told me.”

***

Tell us: Do you think Gerda, Ntando and Vuyisa are going to remain lifelong friends?

This story was inspired by a fairy-tale called The Snow Queen. Do you know it? Try to find and read it.