Appears in The Compact Reader
Set between two novels in 432–433 IE, Winter Games follows JT Austin as he retreats to his cabin in the Amargosan highlands following a falling-out with Suicide. He is joined unexpectedly by Ellie Nardino, who seeks both rest and reconnection. What begins as a casual visit becomes a slow-burning romance as the two weather the winter together—Ellie confronting her lack of adolescent experience, JT confronting the emotional fallout from past losses and strained relationships.
When a territorial conflict erupts in Lycanthia between sapient lycanths and Gelt settlers, Ellie is drawn back into her role as Chapaan and—alongside JT and Spikey—successfully negotiates peace. The experience rekindles her sense of purpose and deepens her bond with JT, with the two ultimately beginning a relationship rooted in mutual understanding, trust, and healing.
Later, Ellie visits Suicide to discuss JT, their complex shared history, and their mutual love for him. Despite Suicide’s hard edges and distance, the encounter offers subtle closure and affirmation. In the final scene, JT camps outside Suicide’s hut, intending to confront the rift between them. But instead of Suicide, Ellie arrives with news: Edward Windsor is mounting a rescue mission to save Suicide from Aphrodite—and she and JT are going with him.