[Xanth]

Overnight, the quadrangle has changed. Overnight, an elaborate ice structure appeared, surrounding the great statue of Xanth.

Xanthmas has begun.

Every week until the 25th 28th of December, you can roleplay each of your characters visiting the grotto to claim a gift (one per week per character, to a total of four each). Since I can't reply to each post, the idea is for you to get in and out in a single post, and then I'll announce at the end of each week what gifts your characters have received.

Each visit must be in-character and 50 words or more. I'm also asking you to include a wishlist for your character in an OOC note so I have some idea of what to give you rather than something generic. (And remember to update your inventory at the end of Xanthmas!)

But before you post, please make sure to read the wiki entry for this event!

Have fun, and
MERRY CHRISTMAS!

[Maaike]

"Mama, I can't -

"Take him, Maaike. He needs this. He's been pestering your father and I for months."

"But it's too dangerous to take him to the city. What if - ?"

"Aye, and what if he's swallowed by a bear tomorrow. You're taking him and that's final."

And so Maaike was standing on the street opposite the grotto's entrance, her hat pulled low and a thin scarf tucked up around her nose. It was more a disguise than for warmth since, snowy quadrangle notwithstanding, it was too warm in Alexshire to wrap up. Her gloves, too, were more decorative than functional today.

“Mama, can we go in yet?”

Like always, Sammy was being extremely patient with her. She had no idea why he'd got it into his head that it was so very important he visit Xanth's Grotto this year; the Sullivans had never bothered with such pomp before, and Maaike was just as surprised he'd even heard about it. But he'd begged and begged and begged, and in the end her mother was right. "I'll take you, but only if you promise to do exactly as I say - and wear clothes, you little monkey!"

And so he'd stood silently and patiently at her side, his hand clutched in her own, as she'd scoped out the grotto and its surroundings. Entirely distrustful, she wouldn't set one foot in there until she was absolutely certain she wasn't about to be ambushed. More than that, she didn't want anyone to see them together - not because she was ashamed, but because being seen with her would put her baby boy in danger.

“Let's go.” Like the good boy he was, Sammy immediately held up both arms so she could hoist him into the air, then wrapped his legs around her waist and hung on tight. It wasn't that he couldn't walk by himself, only that she would be moving faster than his little legs could keep up and she didn't want him tired out if something happened and she needed him to run. Besides, those damned snowmen could easily knock him down with their snowballs, and she didn't want her son hurt.

Pressing her gloved hand to the back of his head, she tucked his face into the crook of her neck and ran for it, hunching her shoulders and hunkering her head down to avoid the pelting snow. It was only when they were safe inside that she straightened and let Sammy down, still clutching his hand like the fate of the world depended on it.

“It's so pretty, mama.” He was too serious, too quiet. Children his age, seeing something as spectacular as this, should be screaming with glee and running around like headless chickens. Instead, he clung to her hand and looked around with a sombre face, his excitement only reaching his eyes.

It broke her heart.

“You have to stand over there, mama.” This was the only thing he got stubborn about. Whatever he'd come to ask for, he didn't want her knowing about it. It was her only concession, and she let him shoo her away so he could stand before the ice throne alone. Even then, she didn't go far, and she still heard his request. "Please, Miss Xanth, take care of my mama and don't let the bad men get her."

There were tears in Maaike's eyes when they left.

[Nicolay]

The Grotto was a fantastic escape from the summer heat the swathed the entirety of Alexshire.

There was still a dust of snow that powdered Nicolay on his hair when he barely missed the snow creatures' attacks (he thought that was a pretty fun spectacle of a winter wonderland and wondered how much they were getting paid for standing out there in the half-warm, half-cold in fancy costumes) but with the attention having long passed him, he now placed himself comfortably on a dry spot closest to the wall of ice where he leaned his head to cool it from Hel's glare. His eyes were closed, and he relished the cold air that filled the entire circle although it wouldn't take long, he knew, for him to freshen up. There was no scarf or coat or gloves to be had, after all. He only had on his most comfortable tee -- yellow with a trail of dashiri across his chest -- and an old pair of ragged jeans that was fading at the seams and around the mouths of stitches on his kneecap. Two brown packages were also gathered by his tummy.

When he opened his eyes, the crowd had changed and he felt much better. Summer was hot -- hotter even back in Scotland but he'd always preferred the cooler weathers. For a few moments, he stayed where he was, unmoving and simply watching the sights around him.

But soon he picked himself up, and dusting his behind and his pants off anything, he started towards the throne right across of him and stood two steps from it as he looked at the spruces, the bubbles and the contours of the throne.

Pretty neat spectacle, he thought to himself. Alexshire must be one wealthy city to afford this kind of reality-bending trick.

A bubble floated down from the heavens and he caught it when it reached the level of his nose and he thought he saw the face of a familiar man from a past life.

Albert Cannes.

What it was he was carrying, Nicolay didn't catch when the bubble popped but he frowned a little and dropped his gaze when he remembered that man.

No, he still didn't want to see him.

Take care of everyone while I'm here, all right? he thought...half-prayed to Xanth as he looked up to the ginormous throne in the heart of the event. Mom, Dad, my friends...I hope Emily has a new boyfriend now...'cause I don't think I can come back to her anymore. Tell the family I'll look after Issy, too...well, I guess it's my job now.

He smiled a little before he turned to walk away. There was still lunch to be had in Colormints with the adorable Lazuli Kitay...that is, Nicolay was hoping she was free and open to his surprise visits...

...which was turning out to be a regular thing, anyway.

(And then maybe she'd want to go see the Grotto with him?)

OOC: Wishlist right here!

[Kiel]

Last year's grotto brought him two new friends and, like, a whole dragon-belly full of Fun with a capital F. This year was kinda lame in comparison 'cause Phenny was sunk in work (like, that was what Kiel told himself to ease the pain of gradually losing touch with her) and Zeph had totally, flatly (with numerous threatening words and gestures) refused to go with him. He'd even forbade Kiel, on pain of losing the potential to become a father, from even mentioning the grotto and Xanth in general.

That didn't stop him having fun on the way in, though, and with a whooping “WOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!” he skidded to a halt before the throne after ducking snowballs and weaving between animated snowmen intent on taking him down this time. He almost landed in the throne, he was going so fast, but he managed to stop before he, like, defiled it or something by touching it.

“Hahahaha, ChloChlo sent this for me to give to You, okay? Like, I think it's meant to be a hat, you know, or maybe a tea cosy? It's totally lop-sided but You gotta forgive her, okay, 'cause this is, like, only her fiftieth attempt at making stuff, you know? And she's kinda bad at it, but that's okay 'cause it's totally the thought that counts and all that, you know? Oh, oh, and Mom sent these cookies, okay, they're sooooooo awesome. Like, that one kinda looks like I took a bite out of it, but it wasn't me, for sers! Like, Derry got into the bag when I wasn't looking, but it was Zeph's fault 'cause he sat on Shane and she clawed his a - butt, right, and he was trying to kill her so I had to separate 'em, you know, and I dunno if You ever tried to wrangle a seven-foot girly-haired muscle freak like him but lemme tell you it's soooooooo not easy - well, like, maybe it'd be easy for You - and Shane wasn't helping 'cause she was all, like, "rawr" at his feet and I thought she was gonna pass out from the smell but - Hey, hey, don't lick that, your tongue'll sti - Well, it serves you right, hahahahaha!”

After spending a good ten minutes trying to rescue said 'kin from the wall she'd frozen her tongue to (and then several more minutes having a mini "see who can shove the most snow down/in/at the other" fight with her), Kiel returned to his spot before the throne with her sat on his shoulder in her monkey form.

“So, like, I think Tad sent this. It's a book, gag. Anddddd, oh, oh! GramGrams made You a scarf. I guess she thinks even You can get cold, you know? It's kinda pretty, though, maybe You can wear it next time You pose for a picture or something. I didn't bring anything from me this time, though, sorry. Like, I don't get paid until next week, you know, or, like, I did but I spent it all on presents for everyone and snacks 'cause they had this awesome sale on at the baker down the road from Marty's, right, and they were making cakes in the shape of shadowkins. Shadowkins, man! CAKE!!! But I'm totally coming back next week, okay, and it'll be so awesome, it'll rock Your socks. Do You wear socks? Maybe I can get You some socks, hahahaha. Okay, but I gotta go, so, like, Happy Xanthmas and thanks for the present! Byeeeeeeeee!”

((*cough* This was meant to be a QUICKIE. Why can I never write short posts? ))

[Lazuli]

Fond memories of last year's winter wonderland fluttering warmly in her mind, Lazuli returned to this year's Grotto with renewed excitement and joy. She took a moment to just tread the snow with her light, nymphly steps, creating a pattern with the indentations made by her winter boots. The boots were the same as last year's, but Lazuli had redesigned them a bit, adding a pink trim to the cream fabric and ribboned puffs sprinkled with gold, violet, blue and green at the front. It matched well with the rest of her season attire.

The snow's so soft, like cotton candy, she thought, pleased, as she trekked to the welcoming doorstep of Xanth's gleaming palace.

A snowball flew her way and Lazuli took a crouching leap forward to avoid the festive attack. She landed next to a young girl with pigtails and freckles. The girl looked up at Lazuli with only mild surprise, and gave her a "Happy Holidays".

"Merry Xmas to you, too," Lazuli replied warmly, before moving on her way.

It took her about half an hour to reach the center of the magnificent structure. Her eyes lit up at the sight of Xanth's statue, which unsurprisingly looked at its most impressive. Clasping her hands together, Lazuli gave a respectful bow. "Thank you, Xanth, for another wonderful year," she said quietly, and in her thanks were all her feelings of joy for Nicolay, for Colormints, for Chiko, for Phen, for all the other people she had met...

Please give me the power to protect everyone important to me, and to share happiness with them, she thought, because that was something precious to her.

Something white and soft dropped gently on her hat, and Lazuli gave one more holiday wish before leaving, already looking forward to her return.

[Xanth]

In the first week of Xanthmas, She gave with seasonal cheer:

To Maaike: 15 KP

To Nicolay: A frosty can of coke. No, really. He asked for it!

Well, and okay, so once he's drunk it all, the can will explode harmlessly into colourful confetti and an envelope will land at his feet. Inside will be two tickets to a fire show at the local theatre, for him and a "friend".

To Kiel: A glass vial filled with enough jademine for 3 uses.

To Lazuli: A white lace parasol on a redwood frame dripping with pink and white beads and feathers of various sizes.

[Kiel]

“Okay, so like, I didn't bring anything this time either, but it's totally not my fault this time, okay?” A chagrined Kiel was standing before the ice throne after not-so-mortal combat with the snowmen outside and almost taking some poor father off at the knees when he tried to pull a "dive to safety" move that instead ploughed him into a small family.

“Like, I had the money this time, you know, but, like, work's so crazy this time of year, you know? I've barely seen Zeph all week, man! Like, I mean, I've seen him 'cause I work for him, but, like, I haven't seen him seen him, you know? There's, like, all these people coming to buy stuff for you and all and - wah! Not that I'm complaining, 'cause, like, you totally deserve it, man! But, like, and Marty's gotta hire extra runners 'cause people are sending us all over the city and stuff. And anyway, so I didn't have time to do any shopping, you know, and well, I coulda gone the other day with Niccy or Phenny or somebody but, like, all the shops were all, like, "We sold out" and stuff. But I'm so bringing something next time, okay?”

Sketching a quick curtsey before realising that, no wait! That was for girls! Kiel made off with a box wrapped in black and gold paper. “Aw, man, I sooooo don't deserve this right now.”

[Isabel]

Issy had been so busy the past year so, with things she couldn't even remember now, that she had missed coming to Xanth's Grotto. Now, looking at the magnificent throne inside the Grotto, she wondered why she missed it at all.

The place was as beautiful as ever; calm and serene, the floors covered with pure white snow and crystals shining and winking all around. It was a huge contrast to the very busy entrance with its usual boisterous snowmen throwing snowballs at passersby.

Issy took a few moments standing there in front of the throne, gazing at it serenely and ignoring the other people that came and went bearing presents. She had a lot to be thankful for this year and one of that was her reunion with her brother. She had resigned to herself a year ago to the thought that she would never see any one of her family ever. The fact that she actually met her brother here of all places was a miracle.

After making a short curtsy to Xanth as well as giving thanks for her guidance, Issy bent and took one gift wrapped in a festive Christmas wrapper with an intricately tied green bow around it.

"Merry Christmas Xanth!"

[Nicolay]

Nicolay was a believer now.

Adie had been vehement on telling him that the can of Coca Cola was a present from Xanth and Nicolay had almost readily believed her because in a place were there was no modern canning factory, much less a soda making one, how could he have possibly procured the soft drink? He had been craving for it since...he got lost in Elysia and the world was suddenly a much brighter place when he took his first gulp. It was amazing.

On top of that, there were tickets for two on a fire show that was a random choice but Nicolay knew they only had limited slots to them, so it was still a lucky fetch and he really did appreciate it -- never mind the fact that he practically wailed and ran to the other side of the room with the confetti popped at him and prepared to shift, expecting a crazy monkey in place of the two fallen tickets. Thank goodness there wasn't one.

All right, so I don't know if this is the way to do it but you don't know me, I don't know you personally, but you still gave me a present and it was awesome. So here's one for you, he leaned down a little to place the narrow piece of translucent-lilac vase at the foot of her throne, when that twisted up to the rippled opening from the wide base. Hope that's all right and, you know, not cheap. He dusted his hands to his pants and looked up to the gigantic seat for a moment.

I'm really looking forward to that fire show, Xanth, so I hope it all turns out well. Thanks a lot for them, by the way. I'm scared the theater might catch fire...but anyway, I guess Laz'd be there to save the day. I hope she enjoys the show, too. Seeing as she's...a nyad...and all that. Anyway, I'm late for work. I'll see you...or not really, I guess.

Slipping his hands into his pants pocket, he turned round his heels and walked away.

(When he found a familiar face strutting down the maze in her heels with the same present at hand, though, he frowned at the sight of it. No awesome presents this time, maybe.)

[Xanth]

For the second week of Xanthmas first comes an OOC gift for you guys! Magi, a revamp of the old Dark Magi skin, is now available from the skin selector! :)

And now:

To Kiel: A thumbnail-sized flawless ruby from the Agraian mines with a note attached: "Perhaps for your future dragon, young sir?"

To Isabel: A hand-written and hand-bound leather journal that contains sketches and first-hand observations about some of Elysia's most hunted creatures as written by a man who once hunted them.

To Nicolay: A dark red HoPC about the size of his own head. When activated, it glows a dark orangey red.

[Kiel]

“Wah! Wah!”

Standing before the ice throne, Kiel was tugging on his hat with both hands, wondering if Xanth was completely insane or if she maybe just wanted him to be done in by thieves or something. “Like, dude! Not to be ungrateful or anything, 'cause I'm totally not, but, like, what the heck am I meant to do with a - ” Glancing around surreptitiously as if he already had pirates on his trail, he finished the rest in a fierce whisper. “- ruby?!”

Pacing a few steps away and then back, he flapped his hands madly. “I mean, like, I know it's meant for my dragon, okay, but, like, my dad said it'll probably be years before I'm ready, okay, and I dunno what I'm supposed to do with this ruby in the meantime, okay?

Plus!” he tacked on as a shocking afterthought, one hand in the air and his finger pointed. “This totally makes my gift for you look sooooo lame right now! Wah, wah, I gotta come back next week with something way cooler, okay? I mean, like, I guess flowers were kinda lame to start with, but, like, you know. I didn't think you were gonna be all, like, ruby-giving, you know?”

Every time the word ruby cropped up, he shot another look around to check he wasn't being stalked and whispered the word just in case. The dramatics were kinda wearing him out. “W-well... you know, thanks. I mean, 'cause I really do. Appreciate it, I mean. And my dragon's gonna totally love me for it. But, like, you know. So yeah. Um, like, the flowers are just kinda a pre-gift, then, okay? I'll totally come back with something way cool next time, okay? Like, okay.”

And as he wandered out of the icy labyrinth, scratching his head beneath his hat, he mumbled to himself, not even meaning it 'cause he so wasn't a thief, “I wonder if Zeph'd notice if, like, one of those crazy awesome spears went missing...”

[Nicolay]

Sometimes, I wonder how you see us. We must seem so materialistic to you.

Nicolay's peace offering (as he'd like to call it) came in a purple paper wrapping although there was nothing special inside -- it was just a crystal that had just so happen to have fallen off and crossed his noticing. It was special to him -- he'd never really "discovered" a crystal in his entire life, after all -- but had not much use for it so he decided he might as well just give it away.

He planted it firmly by the bed of gifts at the foot of the throne and he sighed as he looked up to the gigantic thing, flicking his bangs a little. The HoPC was really awesome, I was really surprised. Maybe you weren't the one who gave it to me, maybe it was someone else but you made them give it to me, I guess. But technically, it's still yours. I'll try not to break it. Does it come with a warranty? That last bit was more for him than Xanth, though.

The fire show's soon. Really hope things work out well. He breathed in deeply as he said this. I don't really have any solid plans for it yet but...well, it's something I'm really looking forward to. It's gonna be the first time in a long time...an almost-date. I say almost but...anyway, don't get sick of me yet, all right? Adie says I need to come up with an ultimate wish in the end of this all so maybe I'll sleep on that.

I'll leave you to your toys, then. Thanks, again.

No ceremonies, no lingering thoughts. Finished with his visit, the Therian turned and walked away.

[Lazuli]

“Thank you so much, Goddess. The parasol is lovely!”

She gave one of the beads a gentle push, and it made pretty tinkling sounds as it collided with its dainty little companions. For Lazuli, the Goddess's gifts represented love, love that she believed in even if Xanth had chosen not to give presents each year. It was such a nice feeling, however, to find something waiting for her each time, to be able to walk into the palace and leave with something new in her life.

Standing in front of the ice throne, Lazuli made her customary bow and gently placed a handwoven basket on the ground. A small bouquet of flowers peeked out from a glass vase within. Their petals were various shades of purple -- from lavender to amethyst to royal violet. Although it may have seemed strange to put such ephemeral beings in an icy winter palace, Lazuli had specifically nurtured the plants herself so they may thrive in the cold. “I know they won't last forever even so, but I hope you like them, dear Lady,” she said, taking another moment to pray.

Before she walked away, she turned around as though she wanted to say one last thing, but smiled instead and left to return another day.

[Xanth]

In the third week of Xanthmas, I bring to you yet another skin! This one is new and for members only, and you'll find it in the drop-down as The Fae. It's based on Skyla's gorgeous entry for the Inspire a Skin! contest held in January (sorry it took so long!).

For Nicolay: An entirely unremarkable wooden broom with white bristles made from taroch hair. A pretty red bow is tied around the handle along with a gift tag that reads: "You want a clean apartment, get to work". It does nothing special, but maybe if he uses it to clear some space, his old wardrobe will appear filled with his old clothes.

For Kiel: Another gobstopper.

For Lazuli: A delicate silver ring bearing two small silver flowers. At the centre of each is a hollow blue gemstone filled with water, such that the ring can act as a small Source.

---

Because I was late in getting this up and haven't given you guys much time to post again before Christmas Day, I'm extending the grotto until next Tuesday (the 28th, midnight GMT).

Wishlists are going to be very much appreciated!

[Kiel]

“Okay. So, like. I hope you know how hard I worked on this, okay? Like, I didn't make it myself, okay, 'cause, like, if I picked up a chunk of wood and a knife I'm pretty sure I'd stab myself with it. The wood or the knife. Maybe both, hahahaha.

But, like. I looked everywhere for something cool, okay? Like, well, not everywhere 'cause I didn't have chance to leave town and I haven't spent much time on the east side lately, and I guess they have stuff like this in Nirim too but they'd charge an arm or a leg for one, you know, and I love you and all but no way I'm giving one of those away for something like this, okay? Like, maybe if you needed me to arm wrestle a vlareon or something, that'd be kinda cool, but, like, not for a little, like, wooden statue thingy, okay?

Although it looks pretty awesome, man, for sers. Like, when I saw the guy whittling on the street, I only stopped 'cause I was curious and I think I kinda got hypnotised and I think maybe he tried to whittle my wallet or something except it was attached to my belt 'cause it's that awesome, like, wallet thing you gave me last year, you know, but anyway. Like, when I saw it, it really made me think of you. Like, I know it's not anything spectacular. Like the statue here. Like, it's tiny. And it's really really simple. And, like, kinda makes me think of, like, the primordial woman or something. But, like, that's kinda what you are, you know? The first woman. Except, like, I guess not to humans 'cause they were here first. There. On Earth. And there were female dragons too. And, like, female animals and stuff. And, like, you're way cooler than this thing.

But that's not the point! 'cause, like, the point is that it's super cool and it made me think of you and I guess I thought you'd like it except now I think maybe I should get something else instead. Again. 'cause, like, it seems really lame now, except I like it so maybe you will too?

Oh, and, like. Thanks for the gobstopper, man. It was really yummy for, like, ages, you know? Quietest hour of my life, hahahaha! Well. Like. Except for the one you gave me last year, I guess.”

[Tsiyone]

Tsiyone felt kind of... sheepish heading into New Alexandria today. He'd just found out that the entrance to the grotto-maze-thing was free, and that countless presents waited inside. Well, "just" really meant he had found out a couple of weeks ago, but had not had the free time to visit until now.

The snowballs at the entrance had startled Tsiyone, but after the initial shock of self-moving snowmen Tsi was able to move onwards. After all, being pelted with water and snow wasn't anything new for him as a Marid. After finally avigating the maze, Tsiyone dragged his feet as he approached the enormous throne.

“I... don't have anything to give but... I uh...” Tsiyone mumbled as he rubbed his neck. He felt awkward taking something without giving something back. Maybe... Tsiyone bit his lip as he clenched his fist. He focused himself on the wall and ripped a small cube of ice, about the size of a fist, and began to morph it. After a few minutes it was a basic, but quaint, little X made of ice.

“I know it's... yea... but...” Tsiyone set it on the throne and shove a hand into his hair, scratching his scalp absently as he looked down and away. A small packaged wrapped in teal paper with a red ribbon caught his eye. He bent over and picked it up.

“Uhm... uh... bye...”

Piper's Boutique ≈ DaFont ≈ Selphie's World ≈ Aethereality

Wishlist

• Bracer that can slow his metabolism when he wears it
  
• Amulet that lowers the pain of shifting
  
• Flask that he can conceal on his person and open/close just by moving the water inside of it a specific way.
  
• Pole arm with a special blade that can hold water inside of it which can be manipulated out while fighting.

[Nicolay]

The Grotto had taken on a different life all of a sudden, Nicolay thought -- or maybe it was just the time of day? When he stepped past the last wall leading out of the maze, dusting his hair and shoulders of the snow that pelted him the moment he stepped inside the ice palace but that was what he got for being distracted by his COM as he walked in. He should have known better than to do that.

Xanth might be pleased to find him wearing a waistcoat his grandmother brought him from England, though, as well as a pair of old jeans that used to be a little big for him but now fit him nicely...and comfortably.

It was a pleasant surprise, when I saw these clothes in my closet. How you found out where I live, I don't know...but did you really take them out of my bedroom and brought them here? Nicolay said to the goddess as he fiddled with the flap of the purple envelope he had brought along. I'm really happy that I got my old clothes back...and I don't mean to be ungrateful, but now I'm wondering what my parents would think, finding my clothes gone from my closet...or wherever they stuffed it in.

How are they, I wonder? I hope they won't be too cold this year, what with Issy and I being away...

He stepped aside when a child ambled over to Xanth's throne, her mother calling her from the back to advise her too late to say "Excuse me" as she folded her knees, crouching and placed a prettily wrapped box at the foot of the icy seat before she stood up and waddled backwards, mouth agape a little, hands together as she gazed at the high chair.

“Say something, Zoey!” her mother instructed.

“I love you, Xanth...” the child said uncertainly with a piercing voice before she turned to look at her mother who commended her for her actions and gestured her back into her arms to which the girl gladly responded with quick steps.

Some of the clothes are actually too small for me now. Maybe the air here really is fresher and healthier, Nicolay resumed his one-sided conversation as he smiled at the child who embraced her mother and buried her face on her skirt, the young parent laughing at the gesture. Maybe I'll give them to someone else...a charity. That way, they won't be such a clutter, right? He looked up to the glistening height of the throne.

The fire show went well, thanks a lot. It's the highlight of my Christmas...at least I have one now. Nicolay sighed through his nostrils as he looked down to his hands, the thing he held. In one decisive motion, he stepped forward and placed the envelope on top of the present that the first child had offered before him.

I know this isn't much, he continued as he straightened up. Just a small amount from the pay I get from the shop...but maybe you can buy a meal or two with it in your fancy restaurant. For a...an insignificant amount, though, I'm asking for something big. And I hope that's fine with you. He sighed as he closed his eyes and dipped his head, arms around his chest. I've been thinking of a wish for a long time...I thought, maybe I wanted a body that was more cooperative to my Therian side...or maybe I wanted a better job or food or a new COM...but...I really didn't feel anything for those ideas.

Instead, I decided...that I really just want everything to be all right, Nicolay let out a breath. I'm...back, I guess, he shrugged, Here, in Elysia...where I was born, where I'm meant to be...but I left so many garbage behind that...that it's really hard to start that life I've been meaning to start without thinking about them. All the time, I wonder if my parents are all right...and I hope they are. They must be missing me...or angry at me for leaving them alone when I'm the only one they have since Issy disappeared...but I hope that gets resolved soon. In some way or form, it becomes all right. And Albert Cannes...and maybe my real mother and siblings, if I do have any or if they're still alive. And then there's university and my friends and everything else I left in Earth...and all the baggage I may have left here when, for some reason, I ended up in Earth.

I just hope everything fixes itself, already. Nicolay sighed and looked up with open eyes, damp by the rim. And I hope this doesn't blow up into one big drama that I can't fix. It's not like it's my fault, after all... he muttered that last bit to himself.

Anyway, that's all I'm asking for. He finished with one decisive nod. It's...a lot for a small pay, I guess. But...I'd really appreciate any help I can get.

And thanks a lot for this. He tugged in his waistcoat as he began stepping back, I really love this thing and I really missed it. I'll be off now. See you. Turning on his heels, he began to walk away.

[Isabel]

Issy visited Xanth's Christmas grotto for the last time before it disappeared again until the next season. She wanted to thank Xanth for the lovely, if not dark and gruesome journal. It was a very detailed journal on Elysia's hunted creatures; something very informative and one she knew would come in handy someday.

Standing before Xanth's throne once again whilst carrying a basket of assorted fruits, Issy gave a curtsey. “"Thank you Xanth for the wonderful gift. It was an interesting read, one that kept me up all night. This holiday season had been really wonderful. Thank you!”

Issy set down the basket of fruits she was holding in front of the throne. She had no idea whether or not Xanth cared for the fruits but she hoped that no one else would help themselves to it. With one last look, Issy smiled and turned away.

Wishlist: probably a little late but, better late than never I always say.. lol
< I actually don't know what to wish for Issy >.> uhm... some girly stuff? like accessories or clothes maybe

[Lazuli]

Lazuli returned with the water ring on her right hand. “Thank you so much for this, Goddess,” she said in the soft yet relaxed tone she used when no one was around (at least, no one but the Goddess perhaps). “It's beautiful, and I think it will be very useful too.”

She proceeded to set down a small container wrapped in green and red paper, all tied together by a white and gold ribbon. It contained a selection of milk chocolates that Lazuli had made herself in the early morning. “I only put in the ones that came out right,” she admitted with a small laugh, but the holiday cheer was still on her face despite her less-than-wonderful cooking prowess. “I tried one and I think it was good, so I do hope you will enjoy them, too, Lady Xanth.”

With her head bowed and her hands clasped beneath her chin, Lazuli silently wished for happiness for the people dear to her, including her relatives back in the Fae Forest, as well as a special thought for Nicolay, who had been so involved in her life as of late. Please take care of him, Xanth, she thought.

Anyway, I will try my best too.

“Good-bye, then! Merry Christmas!”

[Xanth]

In the final week of Xanthmas, as the ice maze melted from sight, visitors would open their gifts to find:

Kiel: "Latin for Dummies"

Tsiyone: A small silver flask with a poppable lid. Inside is a note that says: "Get a job."

Nic: A rickety, wooden step-ladder. Well, he wanted a raise. And a can of pringles.

Isabel: A cutesy cheefle-shaped cosy. Coincidentally, it seems just large enough to fit a Black Rose flask...

Lazuli: A lalaith hand-carved from seawood.

---

And that, sadly, is Xanthmas over for another year.

I hope you and your characters all enjoyed your gifties and that you come back for more next year!

Merry Xanthmas, and Happy New Year!