As another week began, the entirety of Avaloria City had fully transformed into a winter postcard. Breathtaking, but equally cold as the temperatures plummeted further.
Snow fell more frequently now, dusting rooftops and blanketing the sidewalks. It also gathered in neat little hills at the edges of the streets.
It was beautiful, until it melted and turned into muddy water.
From morning to night, shop windows glowed with golden lights, with wreaths hung proudly on the doors. Both upbeat and sorrowful festive songs blared from speakers outside and inside the stores.
At the same time, carol singers gathered to sing familiar tunes, their voices bright against the crisp air. They huddled together in scarves and mittens as they sang through the bustling streets.
That Thursday morning, Lariette walked quickly along the path leading to the school building, clutching her bag tighter against the cold. Ruediger had just dropped her off outside.
