This is a story that takes place in a slowly-developing world of braided stories that I'm working on for eventual publication as a large anthology of its own.  The story takes place early in the chronology of this setting and introduces several key characters who will appear in future stories.

I guess you could say this is another fairy story, though there are no elements of overt fantasy in it.  As such, and because I wrote it, there are elements of darkness in it, including suicidal ideation and planning.  If reading about this would do you harm, please exercise appropriate self care, as you will not be able to avoid it easily.  Otherwise, enjoy.