The gift

The gift

Detective Yui “Krow” Kato sat motionless in the chair nestled deep within the snowy wilderness, her senses attuned to the serene symphony of nature surrounding her. The whispering pines swayed gently in the frigid breeze; their branches laden with glistening snowflakes that sparkled like diamonds under the pale winter sun. A solitary crow alighted on her shoulder, its obsidian eyes mirroring the vast expanse of white that stretched out before them. Amidst the tranquil landscape, a faint sound pierced the stillness, jolting Detective Kato into action. With a swift movement, she leaped from her chair and raced through the pristine snow, leaving behind a trail of hurried footprints that were quickly followed by her fellow officers. As she navigated through the wintry terrain, a frozen waterfall loomed ahead like a gateway to another world. Entering the icy cavern illuminated only by the feeble glow of her phone, Detective Kato's heart quickened as she discovered a figure lying motionless on the cold ground. Checking for signs of life, relief flooded through her as she detected a faint pulse beneath her fingertips. Just as hope began to bloom, a glint of light revealed a chilling sight that sent shivers down her spine.

Despite being the youngest female to achieve detective status and holding a PhD in psychology, she was still met with fear and apprehension from others. Her sharp mind and unique perspective made her stand out in a sea of conformity, and her pet crow only added to the rumors and misconceptions surrounding her. Thus, people gave her the nickname "Krow", further ostracizing her for being different. As she stepped into the cabin, she mentally captured an image of everything she passed by. "Where is the owner?" she inquired, scanning the room for any sign of him. An officer gestured towards the couch next to the fireplace, and she made her way over to him. After introducing herself, she asked Mr. Truden when he had returned home. As their eyes met, Yui held his gaze steadily. "I just got home... I don't understand," he stammered, his hands shaking. "I don't even know the girl. Why was she calling the police from my house? "She was already aware that the man was not a suspect. She decided to confirm whether anyone else resided in the house. "Does anyone else live here?" she inquired. "No, just me," he replied, "but I do have someone who comes by once a week to clean. "What's their name?" "Connor," he answered. The officer standing next to her chimed in, "Is that Hunter's son? "Yes," the man confirmed. The detective turned her attention back to him, "Do you know this boy? "He enjoys hunting with his father in these woods," the officer explained, "I occasionally purchase deer from him. "Her gaze shifted from the man to the one present under the Christmas tree. "Did you forget one, Mr. Truden?" she asked, confusion evident on her face. "It's not mine," he replied, equally perplexed.

She picked up the gift after putting on the gloves and saw that it was addressed to Krow from Santa. Her assistant stood by, ready to document everything that happened. With a deep breath, she slowly opened the box. Inside was a small cooler. And inside the cooler? A frozen bat. Santa is hinting at something; he enjoys playing games. Well, let's play along.

Connor entered the room with a police officer. The boy seemed timid, avoiding eye contact. “Hello Connor," I greeted him. "I'm Detective Krow. Can I ask you some questions? "He looked up, and our eyes met through his glasses. There were demons lurking in his dark eyes, mocking and jeering, sending shivers down my spine. His expression was blank, showing no emotions at all. "Do you know the girl?" I asked. “Yes, we attend school together.". "When did you last see her? “Before winter break," he answered. I mentally rolled my eyes and continued questioning him. "And when was the last time you cleaned Mr. Truden's cabin? “Last week," he stated. I couldn't believe his answer; it sounded like a complete lie to me.

She made her way to the living room's expansive window, peering out at the snow-covered landscape. Opening the door, she stepped outside and took in her surroundings. "Fetch me a chair," she requested of her assistant. She dragged it over to the trees and settled down, gazing out at the winter wonderland. Then she closed her eye

"What is she up to?" asked one of the officers. "Whatever it is, we shouldn't interrupt her," replied her assistant firmly. Suddenly, she jumped out of her chair and the officers followed suit, trailing closely behind her. She led them through the cave and behind a waterfall where they found the girl. "Call an ambulance now! And grab some blankets, hurry!" she commanded. They carefully transported the girl through the snowy terrain all the way to the cabin. Connor's expression remained stoic as his eyes tracked the detective's every move. "You," he said, pointing to one of the officers. "Accompany her to the hospital and don't leave her side." She turned to Connor and Mr. Truden. "We've located her, you're both free to go now." A flicker of surprise finally crossed Connor's face.

The drive to the hospital was silent. They had all been assigned their positions ahead of time. She was monitoring the surveillance cameras, while he made his way inside the girl's room. His hunting knife glistened in the dim light as he prepared to strike...but he realized it is a dummy? This man is desperate and unpredictable, she warned her fellow officers through their walkie talkies, as she waited for him outside the back door of the hospital, hidden between two large trash cans.He burst through the back door, and she jumped out from between the trash cans, pointing a gun at him. He grinned.

 "Thanks for the gift," she said. "How did you know about the cave? No one else knows about it." he asked. "The silence always speaks to me," she replied.