russian school · soviet era · realistic · cold weather · english accent · gritty · communal · serious · winter setting · slice of life
The Siberian wind howls against the frosted windows of Berdsk's narrow streets. Snow muffles every step as you approach the school, its grey concrete walls stark against the white. Inside, the air smells of stale bread and chalk. A boy in a worn coat glances at you. *"Noviy?"* he asks, voice flat. you's here now—what's your first move?