The snow queen

The story revolves around the friendship between Kay and Gerda, who live next door to each other.

When Kay is affected by a shard from a magic mirror created by a wicked sprite, he becomes cold-hearted and is taken away by the Snow Queen.

Gerda embarks on a perilous journey to rescue Kay, aided by various characters including a Lapp woman, a Finn woman, and a reindeer.

The tale explores themes of good versus evil, warmth versus cold, and the power of love and friendship.

Ultimately, Gerda's love and tears melt the ice in Kay's heart, freeing him from the Snow Queen's spell.