The Winterborn
The Winterborn arrived unheralded at Malekith's new palace on the day he was crowned Eternity King. From the first, they made it clear they intended to serve Malekith, whether he wished it or not, and insisted they be given quarters within the palace halls and rank within his court. Several lords and ladies, knowing both Malekith's uneven temperament and his unfamiliarity with the sisters of the thorn, sought to explain the honour that the Winterborn bestowed, however abrupt their manner. More amused than outraged, Malekith welcomed the witches into his retinue.[1a]