The Mountain Shelter

No one remembers who built the Mountain Shelter. Travelers have maintained it for generations, repairing the roof, replacing firewood and leaving food for strangers they will probably never meet.

An old mountain custom says that the shelter must never be left empty. Before departing, every traveler should leave something behind, even if only a piece of bread or a handful of kindling.

People say it is simply good sense in the mountains.

Older travelers sometimes give another explanation:

“You are not always the last one inside.”

Mystery Hook — Someone Was Here

The party reaches the shelter during worsening weather and finds it empty.

A fire is already burning in the hearth.

A pot of water is still warm. Wet footprints cross the floor from the entrance to one of the bunks, but there are no belongings and no sign of another traveler.

Outside, fresh snow covers the mountain.

Only the party's tracks lead to the cabin.

During the night, they hear someone quietly adding wood to the fire.