I started walking down what I figured was the main street of Royal. I passed by deserted and empty stores. Shops all closed and locked. Looking through the windows everything looked pristine with just a heavy layer of dust. I need to find shelter before it gets dark as the winds are changing and the clouds are thickening up. There is a hint of snow flurries. I need to find shelter before the snowstorm.
The shifting winds bring in a new aroma. The smell of a fire burning. I turn off main street to follow the smell. It gets stronger. Suddenly I see what looks like smoke coming from the chimney of an old log cabin. Am I not alone? I am afraid to continue but the cold and my hunger pushes me on.
As I get closer I see no signs of anyone near or around the cabin. No tracks in the snow except for rabbits and other small animals. I walk up to a window and look in. There is a fire burning brightly in the fireplace. Yet I see no one. Just an empty cabin with all the furniture covered with sheets. As if the cabin was hibernating for the winter. Waiting for the next spring to be awakened.
I walk to the door and try the door knob and I hear it click open. I gave the door a push and it was like all the old stale air trapped forever inside the cabin escaped through the open door. It was almost like a new life was given to the cabin. I could almost hear the cabin sigh in relief and happiness as I walked in and closed the door.
