Exceptional A short and shocking revelation about Xmas Polar Opposite by Gant Laborde Newbie Flash Fiction contest entry

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence. Author Reading The Polar Express glides through the night, a beacon of wonder. Jacob beams as the conductor whispers, "A magical journey awaits." But magic always has a price. At the Pole, the train vanishes into the snow. Santa greets the children, his eyes glinting like frost. "Ho, ho, ho! Welcome, recruits," he booms, icy breath curling as he raises a candy-striped staff. One by one, they shrink, their ears sharpening, their faces freezing in servitude. Jacob cries out, but his pleas drown beneath jingling bells as his hands harden into a toy-maker’s grip. Santa sneers, "Bad children make the best toys!"   Recognized Author Notes I wrote this as an emotional ride, leaving the reader thrilled and wordless.

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