"What did he just say?" I ask.

No one answers my question. And I don't blame them. I look around at the blank faces. Everyone knew this day was coming.

Looking to the speaker I frown, "Why?"

He gives a smirk, "You, of all members of the group, should know why."

I look down at my shoes, old and tattered. I can't even remember the last time I'd seen a new pair of shoes.

I suddenly look at the speaker with new confidence and say,

"If we must go through this we each demand a new pair of shoes."

The speaker looks annoyed then gives a light laugh.

"Your last request I assume?"

"The first of many." I respond without thinking.

The man then snaps his fingers twice. On cue a timid solider hurries over and gives a quick salute.

"Fetch these men and this young lady new shoes."

The baffled soldier shakes his head, "Sir, those are for the-"

"Never mind!" The speaker booms.

Quickly the shoes are destributied. I see weak smiles from thoes who have long forgotten what it was like to be happy.

Suddenly the large garage door opens and a huge gust of wind and snow swarm around us.

"It is time." The speaker says.