Thunder footsteps boom like an execution drum as it ascends the straining stairs. With each gradual beat, the threat increases, looming ever nearer. The echoes seem hollow amongst the eerie morning stillness. It charges down the creaking landing, gaining speed with each stride as it heads towards my sleeping sister's room. Effortlessly, it flings open the heavy oak door, pausing momentarily and menacingly as it towers over its unsuspecting victim. I bury deeper into my haven, anticipating the inevitable storm of shrieks that are about to erupt, exploding and shattering the slumbering silence. I hear the hysterical, haunting...
comes into view. The 'prison' doors are firmly shut, forcing hundreds of shivering pupils to stand in the bitter frost. Inside, stand the prison guards munching hobnobs whilst sipping their steaming coffee, gleefully. Clouds of breath cut the crisp air. My ashen, numb hands are stuffed inside my pockets and my toes curl up inside my black, leather shoes. All is still, silently awaiting the bell. At last, a monotonous, piercing note slices the sharp air. The surreal stillness is broken by a sudden stampede, as I charge with the herd towards the inviting warmth. Another day begins.