She strode forward, coming into her power. That once-terrifying personification of ice was cowering on the bottom stair. He sizzled and melted to vapour with a turn of her wrist. Palms raised, she bellowed. Snow melted across the valley, so she called out again: “Merry Christmas!” #5ActFestiveStory

Well done @kaybeen.bsky.social - such a great entry!

Wow thank you! Delighted with this, as well as the likes and comments from such a talented community of writers! This is such a great experience. Looking forward to the final installment!

Ah thank you both @katesfwriter.bsky.social and @claredraycott.bsky.social And well done Kate on the very well deserved winning entry in the last act! Just seen your beautiful exchange in response to Clare's post - so heartwarming! That's what this is all about!

They were frozen to their necks. The fire was almost out. But a new more upbeat carol had started. Her mother mouthed, “Sing.” Ella began quietly: “Sing the ancient Yule–tide carol.” The fire jumped. Then more confidently, “See the blazing Yule before us.” The ice began to retract. #5ActFestiveStory

But once outside, a sleigh blocked their path. An old man in red stepped out. “Ella, it’s time I handed over to you.” It all made sense then: her father’s absence, the desire to bring joy burning deep inside. But then a click: her mother pointed the hunting rifle straight at him. #5ActFestiveStory

Her mother said nothing, but Ella recognised that look: Auntie Jo. “You should see her. It’s Christmas and whatever happened was twenty years ago.” The fire hissed. “You don’t understand.” Yes, because you never tell me! So Ella pulled on her boots and strode out into the snow. #5ActFestiveStory

I turned it over twice before I recognised the writing. Stumbling to my fireplace, I pierced the card with a poker, holding it close enough to warm without it catching. A damp smell dissipated before the additional words appeared in green: Churchyard, 8pm sharp. #5ActFestiveStory