Invited into the ballroom of Helvegen by none other than the Empress herself, you are met with the gold-glittering form of a very hyper-active highland cow. Hooves carrying them over the marble stone in blurry steps, they pull a scroll from under their hat and shove it into your face.
On it you can make out writing... in a language you do not understand (and probably couldn't read IF you knew it, the letters are just so messy). You take a step back and tell the cow that you're unable to read what they've presented to you and turn to leave.
...The cunning fool, however, grabs you by the wrist and spins you across the dance floor. In a sing-song voice, they start talking:
"Master of Riddles, Master of Rhymes,
My service is paid for with YOUR sparkling dimes.
Yet, if my hoof-writing has left you alarmed...
I shall tell you the riddle, your eyes left unharmed!"
Court Jester Triboulet jumps from one leg to the other, their head jingling with every step. They take a deep breath and read the riddle to you:
"I am born of fire but not black or dark.
I am shapeless, weightless but not a spark.
I cannot be touched but I can be felt.
I am not found where snow does not melt."
The golden cow lets you ponder for a split-second, before they skip in circles around you.
"Your answer is needed, soon it is due
You need only ask and I'll give you a clue!
The time will run out, eager I wait.
For the one word that shall settle your fate!"
Credit[]
- Written by Riemenfisch on 6/17/2022.
Trivia[]
- The riddle's answer can be found by clicking the highlighted words in Triboulet's poem.
- This series of riddles is tamer than the Court Jester's usual ominous games - lucky you!