"What a week!"

Bjorn slumped back against the hard wooden bench of the sauna as he reflected back on the hectic week that saw him trek to three different regions in Europe visiting various active field operations. It ended with him lugging back several cases of specimens, books and various artifacts for study by the foundation staff. Once landing back in Norway, he had to trek up to Narvik to meet up with an old colleague working on a translation project. Finally finishing there, he made his through a miserable blizzard back to the foundation.

After distributing his collection to the various departments, engaging in the usual mental sparring match with Tornarsuk to enlist his assistance in analyzing some fossil records, checking his own incoming projects and finishing his own field journal, the professor was quite simply exhausted.

Braving the icy path and the still-falling snow, Bjorn made his way out to the compound's sauna. Peeling off the robe he wore out to the sauna and setting it in the outside utility box, he made his way inside the tiny structure and plopped down on the bench, quite ready to unwind.

As the dry heat inside the tiny outbuilding began to build, his ursine muscles began to slowly relax, releasing the tensions from the past few days. "A tough week that's just going to get tougher starting tomorrow!" he thought closing his eyes as he allowed relaxation to finally pay him a visit. "Too many complications and the last thing I need is any more complications in my life!"

The bear's warm, mental recuperation lasted only a few minutes when it was rudely shattered by the stinging cool sensation that brushed against his fur. Opening one eye, he glanced at the door to see it opening. Through the heat vapor and the gloom from the outside, he was able to see the large, stout shape of a visitor to the sauna - one he didn't expect to see.

"Damn!" He thought. "I really hate complications!"

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Artwork by  abanob, who created this piece in relatively short order.

Special thanks to  Newbear83 who came up with the initial concept.

Story by me.