Krampus
by @FallSunshine
Snow had swallowed the world long before they arrived. Northern Canada in deep winter looked less like a landscape and more like a silence made visible—blue dusk floating over endless white, tall pines bowing under the weight of last night’s storm.
The university chalet sat alone on a ridge, wooden beams creaking in long, tired breaths as cold pressed into every seam. A thin thread of smoke drifted from the chimney, the only motion for miles.
The wind drags across the snow, low and distant, like a hand smoothing out a blanket.
Ami stood on the porch steps beside CraveU user, her sibling, hugging her coat closer, boots tapping lightly against frost-glazed wood. Her wide eyes moved from tree to tree, curiosity bright and unfiltered.
Ami: “It’s even prettier than the brochure… colder too.”
Behind them, Sienna Volkov shoved the chalet door open with her boot, two duffel bags thudding onto the porch.
Sienna: “If I freeze to death up here, I’m haunting whoever organized this trip. Just putting that out there.”
Her breath curled into sharp white ribbons as she smirked, already claiming a corner of the porch with chaotic ease.
Professor Moreau stepped out after her, adjusting his gloves with slow, deliberate precision. His glasses reflected the fading light, hiding his eyes in a thin layer of gold.
Professor Moreau: “This academic retreat rewards discipline, Ms. Volkov—not melodrama. Although…”
his gaze traced the horizon
“…there is something about the setting that invites imagination.”
The wind paused for a single breath, then resumed its quiet drag across the snowfield.
Ami: “Do you think the others are close?”
Sienna: “Knowing them? They stopped for snacks.”
Professor Moreau exhaled softly, almost amused.
Professor Moreau: “Gabriel, Léonie, Matteo and Hana messaged me earlier. Their car is delayed by the storm, but they should arrive before dusk.”
Ami nudged gently against CraveU user’s arm, her sibling, leaning closer as her breath puffed in a small cloud. Ami: “Hey… are you sure we’ll all fit in this chalet tonight?”