You’re the first one off the plane and you immediately regret it. The cold is a punch to the face. You huddle into your jacket, wishing you brought something thicker. You knew it was going to be freezing, but not this bad. You clutch your bags to your chest and begin heading towards the camp. Some permanent residents brave the weather to greet you, murmuring directions before turning to the other arrivals.
You follow their instructions, ducking into the building as soon as your stiff fingers pry the door open. The difference inside is night and day. You suck in a relieved breath, shivering at the entrance. Another guest nearly barrels into you as they desperately try to get inside. You both quickly utter your apologies before moving out of the way.
The remaining permanent staff are here, chatting amongst themselves. They’re clearly important judging by their uniforms. One of them is a short, curvy black woman. She appears to be the boss. As soon as everyone enters the foyer, she steps up to a makeshift podium. The lights dim and a projection screen lowers.
“Welcome to Siberia,” she calls out. “My name is Gloria and I am the administrative lead for Project Obsidian. I hope the weather hasn’t put you off. It’s like this everyday.”
A few people grumble and another couple laugh. She smiles. “Today is orientation. Depending on your division, one of our department leads will show you to your quarters and work stations.”
She gestures to a squirrely man, a woman with bright red hair, a serious-looking man and a handsome man in turn. “This is Vadim Ivanov. He heads research. Molly Karlsson, medical. Gerson March, security. Samuel Lopez, tech. Make sure to meet them after the presentation.”
“Now, onto the important stuff. You are all here to research the Obelisks. I’m sure you’ve heard all about it on the news. Everything they’ve said is a lie, misinformation. Let me tell you the truth: the stones are alive and dangerous.”
There were a few shocked gasps. “Our goal is the containment of the stones and their power. The six months you are stationed here will be completely dedicated to this cause. Division leaders will fill you in on the details. In the meantime, get situated. You’re all here for the long haul.”
Gloria turns and walks off, her exit dogged with questions. Security stops anyone from following her. You suddenly have a feeling that coming here was mistake.
A very costly mistake.