With amazing speed, everything changed for Nicholas Kristopher Kringle. The morning after the dinner discussion with his parents, he began to take his mother around and show her the array of products and projects he was working on.
Annie was very impressed with everything she had seen, but Nicholas wasn't done. He had decided to show her his most important treasure. So using the time continuum to save his mother's tired feet, he took her arm and popped over to Aeon's cottage.
Nicholas was very glad he and his father tidied up the place, and he had kept it neat in his returns. He retrieved the book and showed her what he had already learned. She had already seen the plans for the miniaturization machine, but he still hadn't disclosed where the plans had originated.
Annie read with rapt interest the projections and future events Aeon had enlightened her son. She smiled greatly and just said under her breath, “At last!” when she got to Nicholas meeting his future bride.
When she had gotten to the same place Nicholas had, he gently closed the book and asked, “Well?”
“I expected that you had been up to some things, but I had no idea. Does your father know any of this?” she asked.
“Unfortunately, I believe father has some clouded judgments by living at the Pole for so long. That, coupled with the horrors he has seen, has put him and me at odds about how many good people there are in the world,” explained Nicholas. “Plus he seems to be a little bitter for some reason when it comes to Aeon's book. From the moment he saw it, it was almost as if he was jealous.”
“I truly believe your father hasn't a jealous bone in his body, but I think he has a strong love and concern for Aeon, and often makes comments about how none of what he does would have been possible if not for Aeon, more than any other elf.”
“Then why does the mere mention of Aeon get him so stirred up?” queried Nicholas.
“Your father wishes every day he could see his old friend and mentor, and I believe that while he is thankful that he had left you something, he has nothing but his memories to look back on,” Annie thought about all she had learned from her son and said, “We are both very proud of you, and I believe that when you have taken over for your father, no parent could be prouder of you than he will be. I also think that before we spring all your ideas and plans on the Council, that you need to bring him into the loop first. Otherwise I fear he will be deeply hurt.”
Nicholas nodded his head, “I guess I was just afraid he would take issue with all that I was trying to do.”
Annie laughed, “You know he is not the ogre you sometimes make him out to be. Yes, he wants to protect the North Pole, but he realizes that the world is growing exponentially, and that tallfolk are going to play an ever-increasing role in what we do. In fact, many of the Council members have discussed this several times. I believe once they learn of your scanner technology, this may ease many fears about opening the Pole to the rest of the world. If they can be assured we would only have people that we could trust, then that would take a lot of the air out of the arguments.”
“So when should we meet with the Council?” asked Nicholas.
Annie smiled. “Kris is talking with many of them today setting up a special meeting for this Friday. But, I believe that you are right, that we should wait to spring all this on the Council until after the banquet that will follow your induction as Santa Claus. Timing can be everything on this, and after so many years of waiting, what are another few weeks?”
“Well, I am going to have the teams I am working with continue with their experiments and scale models. I feel the better prepared we are, the more the Council will see the wisdom of what we are doing,” said Nicholas. “I do have concerns about starting some of the buildings that will be needed for the miniaturization machine and possibly the Visiting Center.”
Annie shook her head, “Of all the things I am pleased that you follow in your father's footsteps, impatience is not one of them. Leave the new buildings to me. I will talk to who we need to make certain that construction either begins or is modified as needed for your plans. After all, I am the CEO of the North Pole.”
Nicholas gave his mother a hug and said, “And I have always been as proud of that fact as I am that you are my mother. I can't tell you how thankful I am that you are on my side and will be around to help me.”
“Well you say this today, but let's see what you have to say once you meet Mary Theresa, which by the way, when are you planning to make that trip?” Annie asked slyly.
“Well obviously it will have to wait until after the 'changing of the guard',” answered Nicholas.
“Not too long after, I hope,” replied Annie.
Nicholas laughed, “Now who's being impatient? Besides, I believe everything will happen exactly when it is supposed to.”
Annie grabbed her son's hand and said, “Well, maybe there is hope for you, yet.”
While Annie and Nicholas were popping into Aeon's, Kris was flagging down Frederick in town.
“Hello old friend,” yelled Frederick. “How are you?”
“Fine, great even,” Kris called back, “I need to chat with you for a moment.”
Frederick grinned and said, “It is always a pleasure to talk with Santa, what would you like to discuss?”
Kris smiled at the irony, “How about what you just said? I need to call a special meeting of the Council, I think it is time to officially turn over the job of Santa to Nicholas.”
“You mean this Christmas?” asked Frederick.
“I mean as soon as the Council will approve it. Between you and me, Fred, I not only think he is ready, but I am tired. I really wouldn't mind skipping the next few hundred years. But I did have some questions. I want to ask you about the procedure,” Kris furrowed his brow.
“You mean like what might happen to you and Annie after Nicholas takes your place?” smirked Frederick.
Kris shook his head and snorted, “How is it you and Annie always say what's in my head before I can say anything? You know sometimes it is quite annoying!”
Frederick couldn't help but laugh saying, “It is because your face is like reading a book, we all know when you are concerned, happy, wrestling with a problem, and so on. That is it, isn't it?”
“Yes, that is it; for instance do I have to give up my position with the Council, or Annie, hers? And would we have to leave the North Pole if we were no longer officially in charge. And lastly, do we need to vacate our home, or just turn it over to Nicholas?” Kris looked deeply concerned about all these worries.
“Good heavens, what have you been smoking?” Frederick looked aghast at Kris. “Do you think we would just put you and Annie out like so much garbage after nearly two centuries of service to the North Pole? What in the name of God made you think of such a thing? Well never mind, don't even try to explain it, just know this. First, you both will be members of the Council for as long as you wish to serve. Now as a suggestion, and I would be happy to put it before the Council later, but since Carrow and Ulzana are resigning at the end of this year, I think the best plan would be to have you both fill in for them and appoint Nicholas into your position as President of the Council. This keeps Santa Claus as the figurehead and you would finally get a chance to vote on some issues, as I know you wished you could on several occasions.”
Kris just nodded and continued to listen.
“Secondly,” Frederick continued, “That is your home until the day you both either leave this earth, which I pray is another few centuries, or leave the North Pole, which I pray is never. We will build another home for Nicholas if he requests it, which he has never mentioned to me. And lastly, old friend, I believe anyone that would suggest Annie step down from her position as CEO would be taken out and strapped to the front of the first train heading out of the North Pole! Everyone loves and respects her, and she still runs the most efficient set up anyone could ever imagine. And when things need changing, she is not afraid to take charge and change them. I predict some major changes taking place this year, and she will be the one to implement them.”
Kris' mouth began to move, but nothing came out, he looked like a fish trying to breathe air.
This did not slow Frederick as he concluded, “And if you have anymore crazy ideas, my advice is that you just get them out of your head before someone puts you in a straightjacket and has you committed.”
Kris finally found his voice and said, “What changes are you predicting?”
“That is not important for right now, I think we need to go back to your original idea and schedule this meeting for Friday,” said Frederick. “Now I will go talk to Jackson, Whitey, Britney, Denny and Frieda. You go convince Carrow, Ulzana, Ella, and of course you may want to mention it to our CEO – your wife,” he said the last laughingly.
They began walking together and talking about what kind of Santa Claus they thought Nicholas would make, and it was obvious from Frederick's comments, he thought a darn fine one.
The big day had come and Nicholas was as nervous as a cat in a room full of Dobermans. Kris talked about the first time he and Annie went before the Council all those years ago. But somehow Nicholas just couldn't relate and said that this was entirely different. Back then, his parents had no clue why they were brought up to the North Pole, now he was basically interviewing for the position his father held since the 1700's. And what would he do if the Council had voted him down? What position would he hold, if not as Santa Claus?
Out of respect for his father, and to not seem overconfident, he did not wear any of his usual Christmas clothing, but was dressed in brown slacks and a tan, green and brown shirt. His mother chuckled when she saw him, but he was completely and unusually, humorless.
The three of them walked over toward the Council chambers in silence. It was almost like the first one to talk would cause tremendous bad luck for the lot.
As they arrived at the massive doors, Nicholas was almost panicked wondering if he wasn't rushing things, after all what's another few years? As they entered the great hall, he was met by Britney Clearwater, who asked if Nicholas would please wait until such time as he was asked to join the rest of them.
His parents smiled at him reassuringly, and continued with Britney into the chamber. There were a few chairs around the hall which felt vast, as every footstep seemed to echo from wall to wall. He looked at the stained glass that Frieda had created, and this did nothing to make him feel any better. There was one large window showing his father in his sleigh with the reindeer streaking through the sky, another showed his parents guiding what seemed to be the entire North Pole from a hill, the next was a full size portrait of his father in his grandest robe holding a baby in his arms, and on and on. How would he really fill such huge boots?
It was over an hour before the chamber doors opened and Denny Sweetooth appeared from behind the door. He walked over to Nicholas wearing his almost permanent grin and shook Nicholas' hand. He said, “The Council has a few questions they would like to ask you since your father has asked you to take over his full responsibilities. I tell you the following as a friend and Council member, you should answer each question as honestly as you dare, and I would not withhold too much information, as the Council is aware of more than you might think. Your mother has told us that you have been working on a number of projects that will have benefits to your job. It would behoove you to show that you are not only ready to assume the duties, but that you have plans to expedite your duties in an even more efficient manner going forward.”
His grin never left his face, and he ushered Nicholas to enter ahead of him. All Nicholas could think of was “It's show time!” and he uttered a small nervous laugh as he walked toward his destiny.
Everyone looked pleasant enough, except Carrow who never did, and most had smiles on their faces. Frederick began saying, “Well Mr. Nicholas Kringle, it is about time that we finally had a formal meeting with you. Let me say personally, that it has been a distinct pleasure watching you grow and take on new duties throughout the Pole. Obviously, you know why you are here today as your parents have said that they feel it is time that we appoint you as the eleventh St. Nicholas, or Santa Claus, as he has become known around the world. And while we are happy to acquiesce with their request, before we do this officially we wish to make certain you are ready for what lays before you. Therefore we have a few questions if that is acceptable?”
Nicholas answered, “It is not only acceptable but I welcome the opportunity for your questions.”
Frieda Cutinglass was the first, she asked, “Your father has told us that you had some difficulty at first grasping the concept of the time continuum. May we assume you have resolved this issue?”
Nicholas smiled and said, “Not only have I mastered what my father has taught me, but I have been able to take it one level beyond and layer several multidimensional layers upon each other. This allows an almost exponential set of permutations and time and place windows for the same time period.”
Kris shook his head and just muttered, “I wonder how he learned that?”
Next was Jackson Kilowatt and his question was tougher for Nicholas, “Nicholas, your mother mentioned you are in the process of creating a good many projects to assist both you and the North Pole in your task for the future. Would you care to enlighten us?”
Nicholas looked at his mother and father. Then he thought for a moment and answered, “I am more than excited and anxious to share many concepts and ideas with this esteemed body. However, while I have had an opportunity to present many of my ideas to my mother, and I am pleased that she sees merit in those ideas, the time has not properly presented itself to discuss this with my father and get his opinions and consultation. I ask permission that this question be postponed until such time as I have discussed this with the current President of this Council, so that we may both present these ideas together before the Council.”
Nicholas watched as his father smiled and nodded, and he watched his mother dab her eyes. The Council mumbled to each other for a few moments and Carrow announced, “It is so agreed, we ask that you get this accomplished by next Friday, as we too, are anxious to see what our new prodigy are working on all around the village.”
Next up was Denny, he asked simply, “What do you see as the most important duties of Santa Claus?”
Nicholas was prepared for this as he had listened to his father for years and believed his words just as he had spoke them, “To bring hope and faith to all children wherever they may be, and to represent the North Pole with all the dignity and pride that I can muster. I will forever represent this village and bring the gifts that they provide to as many children as believe in us, in order to make their days brighter and to let them know they are loved by each elf, and by Santa Claus and his family.”
“That is a fine answer, but it is not all inclusive,” Whitey stated, “How about your duties to the North Pole and the elves itself?”
“I'm sorry. You are of course correct,” Nicholas blushed. “The only way to do what I just stated is to make certain that the North Pole stays up with the latest technology. I hope to provide the proper guidance so that we can keep the promises we made to the children, and to ourselves, today and centuries from now.”
“So am I correct to assume that you believe we will need to seek assistance from outside the North Pole to accomplish these things?” asked Britney.
“I think that the time has come that we expand our ideas and production methods to certain people in other parts of the world, and yes, I believe that we will need to invite certain tallfolk that have been properly screened and tested to the North Pole. After all, imagine if you had decided that no tallfolk could ever be trusted and never invited my parents up because of your suspicions.” Nicholas said matter-of-factly. “I believe, as I am certain some of you do, that there are good people around the world otherwise why are we doing what we are for the children? There is always hope that people of the south will cease their endless hostilities toward one another, but not all are that way. And there are many great minds that we will need to soon take advantage of beyond our own borders. I will show the Council next week ways in which we may safeguard our way of life and still allow some tallfolk to share their ideas with us and some of ours with them. It is the way of the future and the only way we will be able to continue to meet the ideals we have set for ourselves.”
Ella Communicado, who had stayed silent up until now spoke up, “Tell me Nicholas, if it is so imperative that we involve tallfolk in our operations and us in theirs, wouldn't it be better to limit what you are hoping to accomplish rather than continually try to keep up with the world and its madness?”
Aha, thought Nicholas, definitely not one for expansion, now how to carefully answer her without being nasty. Nicholas mulled the question thoughtfully and finally replied, “I see your concern Ella, however let me respond with a question, precisely which child would you refuse when we received their letter?”
Annie, Frederick, Britney, Jackson and of course Denny, all sported grins, Carrow, Ulzana, Whitey and Frieda just looked stone-faced, while Ella just shrugged her shoulders. Both his parents had their hands over their mouths, so you could not tell if they were smiling or not, but their eyes both showed what you could not see on their mouth, both were grinning.
There were a couple more questions as to whether Nicholas planned to continue using the reindeer and Amerigo, which he said he did, then they asked Kris if he thought Nicholas had mastered enough of the job to do it on his own, which he had said yes, and then finally Nicholas was excused so that the Council could talk among themselves.
He moved to the hallway again and waited once more. He wasn't certain how the vote would go for sure but he thought 6-4 in favor for him. Then he froze, what if this needed to be unanimous? He thought for sure Ella would shoot him down, and that might be all that was needed.
After what seemed another eternity but in reality was about 15 minutes, the door was opened again and this time it was Ella who was smiling at the other side and asked Nicholas to rejoin them.
He walked back to where he stood beforehand and stood before the Council, His father looked at him and said, “The Council has just two more questions for you and one of these is a point for clarification.”
Nicholas thought that this might go forever, but only nodded his head.
“The first question is are we agreed that between now and next Friday, you will discuss the ideas you wish to present before the Council with me, and together we will make the presentation and their decision will decide if we will continue with each individual program. Am I correct in our understanding?” Kris asked.
“Yes sir, you are correct,” answered Nicholas.
“Fine,” responded Kris to his son, “Then the last question the Council has is when would you like your celebratory banquet to officially introduce you as the new Santa Claus?” His father broke into a very large grin as the various Council members yelled out their congratulations, and then went to shake the hand of the new Santa.
At first Nicholas didn't react, not sure what had just taken place. Finally the reality struck him like a thunderbolt, and he grinned ear to ear and started laughing in an uncontrollable, “Ho, Ho, Ho!” as he received hugs and handshakes and sometimes both from all the Council members and his parents.
Ella approached him and said, “I am sorry if I gave you a scare, but the Council wanted to see how you would handle pressure and they made me 'the bad guy'. I knew you would find a way to tactfully put me in my place, and you did.”
Nicholas gave her another hug and said, “Thank goodness, I thought I was going to have an adversary from the start!”
Ella laughed and said, “Not at all, and if you would have thought about it, who deals with the most tallfolk next to Frederick? I am in communications all the time with them, and like you, I know there are so many that are good and loving. I am most certainly your ally on that score.”
“By the way,” Denny said, “You never answered the last question as to when you want your banquet, I have a lot of food to prepare and need to know when to prepare it?”
To this Nicholas answered, “Since you have all the work, you may certainly decide for me and trust that I won't miss my own party, ho, ho, HO!”
He later learned from his parents that while a majority would have carried the vote, Nicholas was unanimously chosen, and that every Council elder felt that he would do as well as his father, if not better, though no one dared say as much.
The word spread through the village with the speed of a bullet. And everyone ran up and congratulated Nicholas the moment they saw him. As he was now spending more time with his father explaining a lot of his ideas and thoughts, this was a little embarrassing, as they would tell his dad that they wondered when he would finally retire.
Kris took it all in stride and was gracious to the last. He actually was enjoying all the attention his son was getting from everyone, and he remembered everyone coming up to him when it was announced by the Council. He was pleased his son would finally have his day in the sun, and told him so.
“It still feels a little awkward having them call me Santa,” said Nicholas. “It will take a little getting used to.”
“Ha, yes I remember how long it took me. Every time they would call me that, I would look behind me to see if someone else was there,” chuckled Kris. “How about we stop in for a cup of coffee at 'Mocha Joe's' and we can talk further about the idea of involving the people of the south with the North Pole?”
When Kris, Annie and Nicholas were alone, they would refer to tallfolk as “Southerners” or “People of the South” since the three of them were all tallfolk themselves. Even when Nicholas was 10 years old he stood well above all but the tallest elves, so referring to the rest of the world as tallfolks felt strange.
As they walked into Mocha Joe's the proprietor greeted them enthusiastically saying, “How are my two favorite Santas?”
Both men laughed and answered that they were fine. As they walked back to a booth in the corner they placed their orders with Joe and asked for privacy if possible.
“I will make sure that you are not disturbed, as I am sure you have some very important topics to discuss before this Christmas!” he said with gusto, “Please feel free to stay as long as you care to and just wave for me.” With that he was gone.
“Okay, now explain to me why we will need to involve the southerners with our people up here,” Kris began by getting right to the point.
“In order to do this, I am afraid I have to bring up a touchy subject between us,” Nicholas looked directly at his father.
Kris cocked an eyebrow and asked, “What subject is that?”
“Aeon,” Nicholas stated.
Kris just shook his head and said, “That is not a touchy subject between us.”
But Nicholas could see him bristling and continued, “Dad, I know you are hurt because he left me that book. He also never even left a note to you saying 'goodbye', but he knew I would need help and quickly, so he left the book.”
“What kind of help. You haven't mentioned that book since you found it that afternoon,” said Kris, “I know that was far too thick to just have that one letter in it.”
“Well I hope you can put your disappointment aside to hear what Aeon wrote me with an open mind,” said a concerned Nicholas.
Joe came up right then and laid the two coffee drinks they ordered before them and again said, “No more disturbances, I promise!”
That broke the tension between them and they both laughed and thanked Joe.
“Alright, I am an open book, no pun intended, tell me what you know,” said Kris.
Nicholas began to reiterate what he had learned as he had done with his mother. When he got to the point of the population exploding to 6 billion souls, Kris just quietly said “Six billion!” and shook his head.
Nicholas continued on about the birthing data that was now continuously compiling in what was now being referred to as the 'Hall of Records'. He then explained how the Santa Ambassador project was progressing.
After that he hit his father with the new miniaturization machine that would reduce all the packages until they could be resized at delivery with the touch of a button, and finally ended with the new ideas that would involve having toys made outside of the North Pole.
“Do you really think this is necessary to have others make our toys?” asked Kris, “After all, for hundreds of years the elves have managed to supply everything we have needed. Why rely on others now?”
“Father, what you have supplied has been what we thought was beyond measure at one time,” began Nicholas. “How am I going to visit upwards of a billion or more homes with a toy or two for each? The difference is as when you were using only Amerigo, versus using nine reindeer. It comes down to a matter of what can and cannot be done. In order to meet that big a need, we must go beyond our borders.”
“I don't believe it can be done no matter how many gifts you can get,” said Kris quietly. “You won't be able to use the continuum to reach that many houses in one night. Unless you plan to do this over more nights.”
“Actually, I can,” Nicholas countered, “As I told the Council, Aeon showed me how to take your multi-dimensional model and layer one dimension over another so it exponentially increases what you can do.”
“Hmm,” said Kris, “So that old elf did have more to teach, just not to me.”
“Dad, I think he knew that you had all you needed to accomplish what you did,” Nicholas was worried this was becoming too focused on Aeon and his father, instead of the matter at hand, “Aeon knew I was struggling, and would continue to do so. if he didn't intervene. He had greater faith in you, and I am alright with that. Can't you be?”
“I had to discover the multi-dimensional continuum on my own, he didn't help me,” growled Kris.
“I can only believe he knew you would figure it out when the time was needed, and you did,” explained Nicholas. “I am not sure he even trusts me to marry properly without his help.”
What do you mean by that?” said Kris. “Is he telling you whom to marry?”
“Well suggesting more than telling, but I do not wish to get into that now.” Nicholas was getting frustrated. “We need to talk about how we can convince the Council that we must open our strict closed-door policy.”
“We?” laughed Kris, “I am not sure I am convinced, yet. I understand your concern, but I believe Carrow will have something to say about what we can and cannot accomplish here in the North Pole, before we would need to explore other options.”
“Even Mom has said it would place too big a strain on operations up here,” argued Nicholas. “And she's the CEO! Besides, if I had to guess, I believe I may have enough of the Council on my side to do this now if put to an immediate vote. Carrow is still only one vote.”
“And Ulzana is two and Britney is three,” parried Kris. “And that is just the ones I am sure of, you may have others that could swing either way.”
“If you were to help and support me, then I could do it,” Nicholas eyed his father, “Without your help, possibly not, no – probably not. The Council still looks to you as their leader. If you are not convinced, than they will waver.”
“You and I have seen the world together,” said Kris, “We both know how hard the world is. There are so many, including a good many Christians, who know to do nothing but make others miserable, or enforce their will on them.”
“And again I say that for everyone that is bad, we will know two, three or four that are good,” answered Nicholas.
“So you keep telling me,” scoffed Kris.
“And now I can prove it to you,” Nicholas said. He had been waiting for this moment. The old argument would now finally be settled between them.
“What do you mean you can prove it?” Kris asked.
“Come with me to the Trade School. I have some elves I wish to introduce you to, and something I want to show you,” answered Nicholas.
They both finished their coffees and said goodbye to Joe and walked up the hill to the Trade School.
Nicholas had warned Keeney, Macintosh and Ion to be ready for their visit. As they walked through the door of the Trade school, all three were standing by.
Nicholas introduced his father to Ion and Macintosh. His father had already known and worked with Keeney for years. So much the better, thought Nicholas.
The elves asked Kris to follow them to the newly formed Hall of Records, which was just two buildings over. As the group walked over, Nicholas explained his concern, that had begun with Annie, about delivering presents to children who had been consistently naughty. Especially as Black Peter had long ago retired, saying the world had gotten too big for him. He said he didn't want to reward bad behavior, and that he asked the elves to devise another way to track who was naughty and who was nice.
Keeney took over the conversation then and explained how Jackson had recommended Ion and Macintosh to Nicholas, he said how they were already working on machines to collect information and put it into a more useful form for the whole North Pole.
As they walked through the doors of the Hall of Records, Kris was warned to watch his step and not without reason. There before him all over the floor and running up every direction were coils of wire everywhere. It looked like a mass of snakes waiting to strike.
“We have just begun the new wiring process to bank all the scanners and computers together, and tying them into the birthing units and hospitals,” explained Macintosh.
“Uh, I think you are getting a little ahead of my father, Mac,” said Nicholas. “We need to bring him up to speed from the beginning.”
“Oh, sorry, Santa,” Macintosh stammered. “Perhaps we should begin in the scanner room.”
“Good idea,” agreed Nicholas. He led the group up the set of steps to his right. “Up here is the proof I was telling you about.”
When they got to the top there were machines all around and a small room for demonstration purposes. Nicholas led his father inside and told Keeney to please explain the two types of scanners.
Keeney puffed up and with great pride said to Kris, “It really is a marvel what we have been able to produce here. We have two scanner systems that we are busy putting into areas all over the world. The first is what we refer to as a general scanner. As a person passes by this machine it will either give us a red or green specter around that person. Green is good, red is bad. Now that is just for that particular moment in time. Later on it may get redder or greener depending on what that person has done that day. It may even change completely from red to green or vice versa, though that doesn't seem to happen very often.”
At that moment several people walked by the scanners and monitors showed primarily different tints of green with just one or two bathed in a light red glow. “As you can see, Santa, most of those people are good with only a couple toward the red tint, and not too heavily.”
“What would cause a red tint or green tint?” asked Kris.
“It is based on their actions and feelings over the last 24 hours,” Ion Crosswire answered. “For instance, if someone had a bad argument with their spouse, it may show them red tinged until such time as they made up or sufficient time had passed, when they might switch back to green.”
“Or if they did a counteracting action, such as visited a friend in the hospital, or donated to charity, it would probably change them immediately to green. Depending on the strength of the action they will have a higher tinge to where you may have trouble seeing what the person truly looks like,” finished Keeney.
“Only 24 hours, that won't tell us how good or bad a person normally is,” retorted Kris.
“Ah,” said Macintosh, “That is why we also came up with the pinpoint scanners!”
Nicholas interrupted, “Dad, we knew we would need to two pronged system. This is, as we have shown you, a general 'snapshot' if you will of how people are doing. The next machine will take an entire person's history and assign a number to it using a plus or minus scale of fifteen. A plus 15 would denote a saint, the highest we have seen so far is plus 12. Needless to say a minus 15 is the devil on earth. We have seen a few minuses in the double digit range, but thankfully most people are showing up in the plus 2 to 10 range meaning. As we suspected, most people are good, and many are better than just 'good'.”
“How can you get their history just from them walking by?” asked Kris.
“It is a very complex equation which I am happy to go over with you. It involves some predictability and probability formulas, as well as historical data and propensity qualifications, but I could go slowly,” answered Macintosh.
Kris waved his hand and mumbled, “Uh, no thanks.”
“The point,” pushed Nicholas, “Is that we now have a way to track good people from not so good people, and we can implement this anywhere we wish. In fact we are installing general and pinpoint scanners all over the world. And this also means that before we invite anyone to the North Pole, we can know that person's propensity to do good or bad.”
Kris stared at the monitors of green and red and finally said, “This is one of the projects you were working on?”
“Actually, sir,” Ion said nervously. “It became an offshoot of collecting data from all over the world, as are many of our projects we are working on. We are now directly connected into every hospital and birthing unit, so we know instantly when a baby is born, and not only their birthday, and whether they are a boy or girl, but their Christian name, how much they weigh, how long they are, what time they were born, their parent's names and address and more.”
“Would you not consider this an invasion of their private lives?” questioned the older Santa.
“We would only deem it so if we planned to use this information for nefarious reasons, but as we both know,” responded Keeney, “The information will just help us do our job better and protect us from people who might have it in their hearts to harm us or cause problems. Strictly an information and defensive system.”
Kris kept looking at all the green on the monitor and began to break into a smile, “So it is true, there are still more good people in the world than not.”
His son walked up and put his arm on his father's shoulders and said, “You knew it just as I did, you just needed a little proof. It is why we do what we do, to help people who want to be good to others, and we don't want to leave one behind if we can prevent it. This is your legacy just as it was our ancestors. And with pride and joy, I assume it as mine.”
Kris wiped his eyes briefly and said it was time to get going.
Everyone stepped out of his way as he made it back to the steps. When he got to the bottom he shook Ion and Macintosh's hand and told them to keep up with the great work. He turned to Keeney and said, ”My friend, I know it is your chosen namesake to keep an eye on all that happens around us, but as a personal favor I ask you to also keep a watchful eye on my son. He is my pride and joy, and he is going to accomplish many more great things than I can imagine. He will need someone to watch over him.”
“You have my deepest promise, as I have watched over you all these years, so I shall do the same with pride for our new Santa Claus.” Keeney had never felt so honored in all his 375 years.
Kris and Nicholas walked off together. Nothing was said by either of them for a time. Finally, Nicholas could stay silent no longer, “Well?”
“I have been thinking a great deal since we left, and I believe you have merit in your arguments about meeting the demands of Christmas, and I may go along with the idea of working with Southerners, but why do you feel the need to invite families up here?” asked Kris.
“It started as I was watching the Santas around the retail stores near Christmas,” Nicholas began. “I could not believe how little any of them knew. And not just about the North Pole and us, but about the whole reason we exist and why we do what we do. There was no tie in to Jesus Christ's birth, no understanding of the love we have for children, as He had. Let alone any of the feelings or thoughts of the elves. No one even seemed sure if Santa Claus was actually married, let alone how his wife may be running the place. And I thought, good heavens, if the 'Santas' don't know any of this, what about the rest of the world?”
Kris just looked down and shook his head.
Nicholas continued, “It is just not right. We are the embodiment of Christmas on earth, and we are not getting the message across. Because one night a year popping in and out of houses is not enough to explain it to the masses.”
“So your plan is to invite everyone up here and show them around?” Kris chuckled.
“Not everyone, but as you and I know, there are a good many people who are struggling personally, but do much good. I will soon be able to know every person's heart from the scanners and how they are doing, plus we will have a history of them and who they are helping in the data base. What if we invited families up solely to try and help them accomplish the good that is in them, and to be able to spread the word about what we want them to learn from the North Pole.” Nicholas was into his full enthusiasm now. “Imagine the good we could do for them, and those around them. We could reward those who have been selfless and help them continue to help others.”
“Does this have anything to do with what your mother is working on in that one section of the village?” asked Kris.
“I don't know, as she asked me to stay out of it. She said she will do what needs be done and when,” answered Nicholas honestly, “But I suspect my ideas may have something to do with it.”
Kris nodded, “Yes, I'll bet you are quite right. Your mother is a very passionate lady, and if she can see a way to help others, she will move mountains to do it.”
As they were moving back through the village, Denny Sweetooth sauntered over and announced to them, “Well it is set, a week from Saturday is your banquet if that is quite convenient?”
Nicholas laughed and said, “As I promised, I will not miss my own party. Is there anything I need to help with?”
Denny laughed this time and said, “Oh my, no! How would it look if the guest-of-honor worked on his own celebration? But thanks for the thought.”
Nicholas said almost to himself, “Good, next Saturday should work out fine and I can leave the following Monday.”
“Leave?” both men asked and Kris said, “Leave for where?”
For a moment Nicholas forgot both Denny and his father were there, “Oh, I have some things to do outside the North Pole. I won't be away too long, just a few days.”
Kris looked like he wanted to press his son for more information, but before he could Nicholas said, “In fact, I need to meet with some one from the village. Father I hope you will excuse me, Denny you also?”
“Of course,” Denny answered for both of them and asked if he could talk with Kris about the plans.
Kris felt suddenly trapped but had no reasonable way out and said, “Sure, why not.”
Nicholas waved goodbye and sped toward the center of the village. He found the quaint two story cottage which had toys and dolls hanging from all the windows, eaves and doorways. He knocked on the door jam as the door was wide open. He heard someone from a distance say, “One moment, please.”
A fairly tall elf with a thick head of dark brown hair and an angular face appeared at the door. He wore gold colored lederhosen over a colorful shirt of yellows and blues. He sported a short but bushy beard and his nose was long and thin. He looked at his visitor and said, “Well bless my soul, it is the new Santa Claus! What is the honor of your visit Mr. Claus?”
Nicholas ho, ho, ho'd loudly and said, “First, please call me Nicholas and none of this Mr. Claus stuff. Secondly I understand you are one of the best toymakers in the North Pole, am I right?
“Well, if I am to be honest, then yes, I reckon that's the truth,” boasted Rory Mattle, “Do you need something special for someone special?”
“Not exactly,” shuffled Nicholas. “But I would like to discuss a plan I have been formulating with you as the center of it. Is there somewhere we could talk?”
“Well, forgive my lack of hospitality, I guess I was just surprised having you show up like this, please come in and make yourself comfortable. Would you care for some tea or coffee? I have some cookies I snagged off Denny yesterday if you'd like a couple?” Rory was very animated in his offerings.
“Thank you, but I am fine.” Nicholas waved off the offerings, “I am kind of anxious to talk with you, however.”
Immediately the jumpy elf took a chair opposite of Nicholas and sat down saying, “I'm sorry, again, as I said I am off guard with your sudden visit.”
“Do you not get any visitors?” asked Nicholas.
“Oh sure, all the time from other elves,” answered Rory. “They are always asking me to come up with this or that for their kids. And sometimes Carrow will come down to talk with me about some new ideas for the production line. And even once your father came to see me, I believe he wanted a special toy for your sixth birthday. I created a marionette clown for him.”
Nicholas laughed again, “You mean you created it for me! I still have that marionette hanging from my bed post! For a very long while I don't think my parents ever saw me without it. Well thank you for the beautiful craftsmanship of that toy. It is still among my favorites.”
Rory blushed at the compliments and just said, “Well gosh, you are welcome. I am glad you liked it so much.”
“Loved it you mean!” gushed Nicholas. “Let me get straight to the point of my visit. I would like you to play one of the most important roles to the North Pole that any elf has, or will, ever be involved in. That is if you think you would be willing?”
Rory just gaped at Nicholas.
“May I take that is a definite maybe?” Nicholas smirked.
Finally Rory found his senses and stammered, “Well, that is quite an introduction you just made. How could I possibly refuse? What is it you need me to do?”
Nicholas put forth the idea given to him by Aeon Millennium from his book, but of course left Aeon out of the discussion. He asked at the end if Rory would be willing to travel with him a week from Monday.
Rory rubbed his beard and thought for a long moment, he then said to Nicholas, “Very interesting, very interesting indeed, I would be honored to go. Now, may I show you something?” Nicholas nodded. Rory got up and went to the back of his home/workshop. He emerged carrying something which he handed to Nicholas.
After studying the object Nicholas said, “She is very beautiful. I foresee that any girl would love her. What do you call her?”
“I named her after my mother Bild Lilli. She is made of the new material plastic and she is very durable,” explained Rory. “I just finished her and was going to take her to Carrow. Perhaps we could take her to this company instead. I will have Stacy Buttons design a swimsuit for her to make her more modest for our presentation. Do you think this might work?”
“Hmm, I believe she might. She is quite a bit older than the dolls I have delivered in the past,” Nicholas rubbed his own beard. “But I think you are right, let's hold off on showing her to Carrow or anyone else in the village. This little lady is going to be a huge hit, I can feel it through my whole being. This could be what we need to springboard us with the Handler's and Mr. Matson.”
“Now the more important question for you,” said Nicholas in a very concerned voice. “How do you feel about being away from the North Pole for what could be several years?”
Rory shrugged, “As long as I am able to keep making toys, I am content to do so anywhere. Besides, if what you say is true, I could be one of the best known elves the Pole has ever seen, though truthfully, that doesn't hold a lot of sway with me. But to be considered one of the greatest toymakers does! If this is where I am needed, then I am your humble servant for however long it takes.”
“Very well.” Nicholas said with a smile and shook Rory's hand vigorously. “Now I must ask you that for the current time, and probably until after the upcoming banquet, we keep this between us.”
“I had already guessed that this would be a clandestine meeting,” smirked Rory. “Again I am pleased you have come to me and will keep your every confidence.”
Nicholas patted Rory on the back and said, “I will check back with you in a few days to see what Stacy has come up with and to make travel plans.” Then he slipped out and headed back toward his home.
Nicholas found his mother in her favorite room, the kitchen. She was baking up a batch of bread which always made the home smell heavenly. The one thing that Nicholas and his mother shared was a passion for cooking. Ever since he was a young lad, he would play in the kitchen while his mother taught him how to mix things. He always had an aptitude for chemistry and enjoyed how mixing things would always change the consistency and flavor of food.
By the time he was of high school age his culinary skills were already admirable, and he made several of the family dinners, as long as time allowed in his studies. Even his father would rave about his son's prowess in the kitchen and some of the meals he made. This of course, only spurred Nicholas to come up with more elaborate meals.
This also increased his friendship with Denny and Pierre and the three of them would discuss recipes and concoctions all the while throwing ingredients into bowls and mixers. These became some of the best memories Nicholas had growing up.
He reached around his mother and gave her a good squeeze. She laughed and said, “Your father was just talking about you and what a nice day he had.”
“He's home already?” asked Nicholas, as Denny was not so easily dissuaded when he had someone to discuss a party to plan.
“No, he called me on one of the new communications devises the Council is testing, she answered. “It is a cordless telephone laying right over there. We can reach anyone in the North Pole without being tethered to a cord.”
“Incredible,” Nicholas sighed. “Did he say anything?”
“Only that he had a very interesting day with you, and then you disappeared,” Annie said.
“I had to meet Rory Mattle and plan my trip to Southern California. By the way, who do I talk to about using standard transportation to Los Angeles Airport?” asked Nicholas.
“Who else, Ella Communicado,” said his mother, “She will make all your plans and arrange everything.”
“But she is on the Council! Won't she ask a bunch of questions?” asked Nicholas horrified at his mother's suggestion.
“The first thing you need to do is stop this 'me against them' attitude you have with everyone outside your little band of soldiers!” Annie scolded. “We are not your enemy, and the Council is not against you or progress, in fact quite the opposite. The second thing you need to know is that every time you involve a Council member, they don't all run to each other and tell the others what you said or did. And lastly, you need to remember the entire Council is behind you, but that will change if they feel you are working behind their backs.”
“I'm sorry,” Nicholas said sincerely. “I guess I have been acting like a spy in my own house. I promise I will quit trying to be so secretive. I just want to make certain everything works out as it should.”
“Remember you have some powerful allies now, which you won't have if they feel you don't trust them to make the right decisions,” Annie said firmly. “And come Friday if you leave anything out when addressing the Council, I will make sure it is brought up.”
Nicholas shrugged, “Alright, that's fair. Everything comes out in the open, but I hope you plan to be there for a very long time, because I am positive they are going to be ready to fight me on a good many issues.”
Annie scoffed. “Oh, I wouldn't be so sure of yourself. You don't know it yet, but a good many things you are about to propose, has been in discussion for a while now and the Council is leaning toward changes. It is you that needs to give them a chance, more than the other way around.”
Just then they heard the door in the hallway open and Kris bellowed, “I am going to shoot my son for leaving me to deal with that rotund little menu planner!”
Both Annie and Nicholas broke into laughter and Nicholas called out, “Better not shoot me anywhere vital, or you will be stuck doing this all over again later!”
He came in from the hall and grabbed and kissed his wife. “Well that makes it all worth it!” He smiled, “And you,” he said looking at his son. “What was so all fired important that you had to run like a jack rabbit who saw a coyote?”
“I'm sorry Dad, I had to meet with another elf as we have to travel down to Southern California the week after the banquet to meet with a company there.” He looked at his mother as if to say, the honesty and openness starts now.
“Well, next time give me a little warning would you?” grunted Kris, “You really have to leave so soon? Everyone will want to congratulate you again.”
“I am sure I will have met everyone at least once by and before the banquet,” Nicholas said. “They can wait to say it again upon my return.” He then faced his father and asked. “My bigger concern is whether or not I have your support for my presentation to the Council tomorrow on the projects we have discussed the last couple days?”
Kris grabbed his beard and began stroking it slowly while staring back at his son, “There are some things I am not entirely convinced of...” He held up his hand as he saw Nicholas sucking in breath ready for an argument, “However I feel I have seen enough, and you have sufficiently justified your arguments for me to give my support of your endeavors to the Council.”
Nicholas released the air he was holding in him and said softly, “Thank you.”
“Is it safe to assume that you have no other surprises to unleash tomorrow that I would be caught unawares?” Nicholas eyed his son.
Nicholas laughed and said, “No promises, but no, I cannot think of anything else that should come up tomorrow.”
Kris shook his head and said, “Well, if anything does, I will have to plead ignorance and stay quiet.”
Annie teased her husband, “You never stay quiet about anything, and I am sure you will find your voice. But I think Nicholas is right, there shouldn't be anymore surprises, and if there are, they will surprise more than just you.”
With that they spoke about what order and how to best present Nicholas' ideas to the Council.
The next morning was, as most were under the dome, a beautiful day with a few puffy clouds rolling over the village and a most comfortable 50 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer as it was now, it would actually warm up into the 70's during the day, even outside the dome. However, here they could control on which days and times it rained, which was always scheduled for at night, and nothing stronger than a mild summer breeze would flow through the village during the day. That was not always so outside.
But this was a beautiful day both in and out of the dome. Nicholas, was a little apprehensive about the deliberations of the Council, but still felt optimistic about the final result. All would work out as it should.
The Council meeting was scheduled for 10:00 in the morning and Nicholas had arranged for Macintosh, Ion, Keeney and a couple others to meet him in the grand hallway at 9:30 to go over the presentations. It was 9:15 and Nicholas had already told his parents that he would see them there and was out the door heading to the Council chambers.
On his way over he saw Jackson and waved. Jackson came over and patted Nicholas on the back and said, “Best of luck today. I have been anxious to hear the official version of all your ideas, even though you have told me some of the concepts.”
Nicholas had always felt that since Jackson had helped him find Macintosh and Ion, that he had always been a forward thinking person like Nicholas. He trusted Jackson and had let him in on some of the things he was doing, but knew that even Jackson would be surprised by some of the other ideas and plans he was about to share. Still, he appreciated Jackson's support and told him so.
“If it is good for the village and Santa Claus, than it is good for all,” Jackson said. “I hope the rest of the Council will be receptive to what you put forth today.”
Nicholas shrugged, “We'll just have to see, but I believe everyone knows I have the North Pole and children and the success of our mission in mind.”
Jackson laughed and said, “Whoa, save the political speeches for in there!” He pointed to the chambers up the way.
Nicholas just returned the laugh and said, “Just practicing!”
They walked up the path together and when they reached the door, Nicholas said, “Well, I must get ready my friend. My assistants and I will need to leave you now.”
Jackson caught the hint and said goodbye to Nicholas and the other elves, “See you soon,” he smiled and moved on.
Just outside the door was a stack of boxes and packages that had been left there last night. As they moved the pile into the grand hallway, the little band started unwrapping and assembling the pieces that they would be showing the Council.
At 10:00 sharp, the door to the Council chambers opened again for Nicholas with both his parents standing on the other side. Annie looked at her son and asked, “Ready?”
Nicholas was. He marched in with his parents and was followed by his small army of elves and a series of scale models.
As he stood before the Council he began his speech in earnest. He talked about the challenges of the past and how they were met with new ideas, then he spoke of the future challenges and the ever exploding population and the use of radio and television and its growing effect on how information was being given and received. Without alluding to Aeon's information, he talked about how one day he would be visiting a billion or more houses on Christmas night.
He then talked about how he had vexed over this problem while learning the lessons of his father. He finished his introductory speech by stating, ”I believe that with the help of the various elves in this room with me that we are prepared to meet the challenges and concerns before us. And with the Council's permission, I would like to introduce my helpers and then discuss the projects before you.”
As he introduced each elf and their specialty he talked about how like the great pioneers of the North Pole, these elves would help continue and grow the influence of the elves and find good persons to plant the proper seeds to help sow a more peaceful world. As he got to Keeney Eagleye, he reminded the Council how carefully Keeney has watched over the Pole through generations of tallfolk and never let anything untoward happen to its residents.
After finishing his opening remarks he turned the presentation of the miniaturization machine over to Macintosh Gelfeeney and he demonstrated with his scale model how this would work. He took a ball and placed it into one side and turned on the scale model. As the ball went through into the machine it seemingly disappeared until he held up something smaller than a pea on the other side of the machine, which was the ball now in miniature form. The Council all began murmuring to each other and nodding their heads.
Nicholas stepped back to the front and said, “We can miniaturize anything and ship it down to the distribution centers for delivery on Christmas Eve.
Britney spoke up and asked, “So what would a person do with a ball that small?”
Ion started to giggle, but a quick look from Nicholas stopped him cold. He turned to Macintosh and just said, “Mac shall we finish this demonstration?”
With that Macintosh placed the miniaturized ball onto Nicholas' hand and pulled out what looked somewhat like a magic wand. He pointed it at the ball and pushed a button on the handle. Instantly the ball returned to its normal size.
“This is a temporary miniaturization machine,” Nicholas explained. “It will shrink an object for as long as we wish. When I deliver the present and push that button, anything miniaturized including its wrappings will return to normal size.”
Macintosh stated, “We have tried it on a number of different items. As long as it goes in together they will be miniaturized together and will be returned to normal size together.”
The Council approved the full scale machine to be built at one of the manufacturing centers and Annie Kringle specified which one she thought might work best. Nicholas thought, One down.
Nicholas then turned to Keeney Eagleye who explained how the two types of scanners worked and where they had been employed. At the end of his presentation which included a movie taken at the Hall of Records that was shown to the Council, Kris cleared his throat and announced to his fellow Council members, “Both Annie and I have seen this technology, and we support the use of this for our own education, edification and defense. It is obvious the more we know about the hearts of others the better we can attend to those good and loving in the world.”
There was some discussion about invasion of privacy, and wasn't the North Pole already going on the premise that everyone was good, anyway?
Nicholas stayed quiet as he felt his voice would be needed later, and this was a half-hearted discussion with no clear disagreement, but more of a clarification. Besides his father was doing quite fine convincing the Council. In the end, his father quelled the debate and the Council passed the scanners use as well.
Keeney felt he was on a roll, so he next discussed the data capturing taking place and being hardwired into the hospitals and birthing units. By now they had now added death announcements to the mix so they could void any person who had been known to pass and expunge them from the data. Keeney admitted it was a little morbid, but said since they were now keeping track of everyone Christian born, that it might be a good idea to weed out those who had died, too.
This was treated more as a point of information to the Council to let them know that this was proceeding. It was Frieda who pointed this out to Nicholas and the elves.
She admonished Nicholas saying, “I understand that you are trying to keep us ahead with all this information, however any projects like this in the future needs to be brought before the Council before you proceed with them. We are still the governing body, and the North Pole is not your personal playground to do with as you please. As you are new, even though this information should have already been passed on, I am willing to let this infraction slide if the rest of the Council agrees.”
The rest of the Council saw Nicholas get redder in the face and just grumbled their agreement. Nicholas wondered to himself if by winning that battle he had just lost the war.
Nicholas asked the Council if the other elves might be excused, as he had a couple more ideas he wished to bring before the Council that did not involve them before a decision would be reached. Carrow took it one step further and requested a recess until after lunch so they could all begin fresh.
Nicholas went to lunch with his parents and they talked about how it was going so far. “I am concerned about the scolding I got from Frieda and how it may affect my chances about the other subjects I wish to discuss,” said a concerned Nicholas.
“That was just some saber-rattling on Frieda's part,” said Kris. “She likes to remind people that she is 'in charge' occasionally.”
“Especially if she feels that she should have had a say in something, first,” added Annie. “Of course you caught the jab at us that we should have brought you up better to know this.”
“Yes,” said Nicholas. “I am glad that just fell on the floor and died.” Then he chuckled and said, “I don't know her hardly at all. I am not that familiar with Britney or Ella, either. Though I must admit I like Ella, she seems to have a good sense of humor about her.”
“Britney is a good egg, also,” chimed in Kris. “In fact, they all are good inside. Frieda just likes to remind people that she is on the Council and was one of the original founders. Her artwork is everywhere and all of it is breathtaking.”
“So I've seen,” replied Nicholas. “Okay, so what do you both think are my chances for this afternoon?”
“Well your father and I will support you as best as we can,” said Annie. “I really cannot say beyond that. Much of what you are going to ask has been argued much without resolution, yet.”
“I think the best you could do,” thought Kris out loud, “is to present it with all the passion you have, and convince them why you think this is vital to the North Pole, as well as the tallfolk. Although, don't forget Whitey is very concerned about the security of the Pole, so don't make light of that fact. That may be your best chance. If they know how driven you are on this score, they may acquiesce to your wishes as the new Santa Claus.”
“I think your father is right,” said Annie. “Right now they are just as worried about upsetting you as you are about upsetting them. Although I wouldn't let that go to your head.”
“Don't worry,” chuckled Nicholas. “There are a lot more of them than there is of me!”
“We should head back,” said Kris. “They should be reconvening by now.”
“Yeah, and I don't want to be late for my own funeral,” grumbled Nicholas.
“Just remember, they all want to see you succeed as we do. In fact, it would do them no good to upset you before you even got started,” Annie explained. “There is no one but your father that can do this. No one else understands the time continuum as well as you, and as long as you believe you are doing good for Santa Claus and the North Pole, than they cannot accuse you of doing this for selfish reasons.”
Nicholas thought about this for a moment then said, “I am doing this for the North Pole, if people lose faith in Santa Claus and Christmas and the message both brings, the results could be far worse than anything they could dare dread today.”
Now Nicholas was ready.
As the Council returned, everyone seemed in a good mood, but also a little apprehensive about what was to come. As Kris banged the gavel and called the Council officially back in session he turned the floor over to Nicholas and said, “I believe you have a couple issues you wish to bring before this Council?”
“I do, thank you Mr. President,” Nicholas responded. “There are two issues both related to the tallfolk of the south that I wish to discuss with the Council and two proposals I wish to get the Council's decision on.” With that Nicholas began:
For hundreds of years, with the exception of two people, no tallfolk have been allowed to set foot at the North Pole and no one, except the elves outside the Pole, have been allowed to know anything about the goings on up here. I believe the time has come that we change these policies and here is my explanations as to why.
Even with all our technology and sophistication, we have come to a point where we will not be able to keep up with the manufacturing demand that will soon be upon us without assistance from outside the North Pole. In the near future we will soon be needing toys and presents for more than a billion souls on Christmas Eve.”
“How could you know that?” asked Carrow.
“I know that there has been a population explosion,” said Frederick, “but how do you arrive at that huge number?”
Nicholas knew it was time to release his secret weapon and did so. “Aeon Millennium,” he said simply.
“Please explain,” requested Whitey.
“Aeon knew I would be having trouble with the portion of the time continuum, as he must have come forward, or backward, in time to see me struggling. He then created a book that he left to me, alone. In it he explained a part of the time continuum that even my father hadn't stumbled upon, but would be necessary to master in order to reach the billions of people I will eventually service. It also included the schematics that made possible the miniaturization machine you saw this morning.
“There is much more that he has left me, but just as he would do with this Council, he said there was to be a time to introduce these new ideas, and he asked me not to jump ahead. I will hold promise to this and he has clearly marked dates on each of the pages so I will know when to advance to the next invention or information. While I already knew this in my heart before, Aeon also said it was vital that I convince the Council to open the Pole's borders and allow for a sharing of ideas between the tallfolk and the residents of the North Pole beginning now.
“If Aeon has foreseen this in his visits to the future, then he would not push this idea if he saw it would harm the Pole or its residents. I feel that this is vital to our survival if we wish to bring the ideas and morals that we hold so dear to the rest of the world. While the tallfolk may always be at war with each other, as we can now see with our scanners, there are far more good-hearted people than not. We MUST bring the information of peace and love and the teachings of not only Jesus Christ, but every prophet and peacemaker to these people, and we must lead by example.
“If we are to be as untrusting as those of the south, then what better are we? If we do not lead by example, then how can we claim to be different in our beliefs? Just because we do not war with each other here, does not prove that our hearts and minds are any bigger than theirs. But if we share our message with others, than we can teach them that there is a better way and we can hope that they will spread that message.
There are some brilliant minds out there that would easily rival our own. And by opening our minds to theirs, we will all benefit.”
“Most of their brilliance is in developing new weapons,” said Carrow.
“I truly believe that weaponry is often a by-product of the ideas others are working on, rather than as a purpose unto itself,” replied Nicholas. “And I have been among these people. Yes they can be untrusting, selfish and uninformed, but if they have a chance for enlightenment and we do not provide it, then again I ask, how much better are we if we withhold this information because of our own distrust?”
“What exactly are you asking the Council to do?” asked Denny, “Perhaps we can better answer you if we know the question you are asking us.”
“Of course, what I would like to propose to the Council is to build a Visiting Center at one end of the North Pole. We would keep this away from our manufacturing, research and development areas and away from the woodlands area where most of us reside to maintain separation and privacy from the tallfolk. We would build a grand inn where we would house certain families for a week. I would meet with them while they were here and we would try to assist them in their strife while educating them in the beliefs and love that we wish to share with others.
“We would encourage them to talk about what they learned from us and advise them that some things must be kept secret. We would introduce certain technologies that we feel may assist the greater good, and others we will keep to ourselves as we have always done in the past. We would only invite families that we know do good things and are selfless to others. It would be much easier to build on good habits and reward good people, than to attempt to change hearts that may not be receptive.”
“Is that the true purpose of the scanners you have begun setting up all over the world?” asked Ella.
“It wasn't the purpose of them originally, but yes they would be used to help determine who we should invite,” said Nicholas. “And if we invite a family, all the members must have the same moral fortitude or we will pick another.”
“Would I be allowed to review your findings prior to inviting them to the Pole?” asked Whitey.
“Of course, you would be an integral part of this,” answered Nicholas.
Annie said, “You should explain the other part of this puzzle as you will be spending some time away from the North Pole this year as well.”
“The other part my mother alludes to,” sighed Nicholas, “is that with the Council’s approval, I will be setting up alliances with companies that could benefit us in securing enough toys and presents to appease all the requests we are already getting as well as future letters.”
“Are you quite sure we cannot keep up with the demand you are suggesting?” asked Carrow.
“Quite certain since I found the book, but I had concerns previously,” answered Nicholas. “In fact my parents and I had this conversation several times before finding the book, and like you, could come to no equitable solution. Let me put it to the CEO of the North Pole, do you believe after the numbers I have shown you that we could keep up with the demand we are facing?”
Annie was pleased with the question and was prepared with an answer, “Considering that our own population has remained on a much slower growth path, and also considering that even though we are the model of efficiency in production, the sheer diversity of what will be required soon would force us to seek out these alliances. I would much rather deal from a position of strength and guidance rather than be desperate and have no choice in our dealings. But yes, either way, we will need to either import help or rely on alliances, if not both.”
Nicholas felt this was a good time to cease discussion and let his mother, the CEO have the final word. He remained silent while the Council murmured among themselves. Carrow finally suggested that Nicholas be excused while the Council deliberated on his proposals.
As Nicholas began to leave, Kris said, “Just a moment, please.” Kris then turned to the Council and said, “Under the circumstances, as both these subjects will determine the role of the new Santa Claus, as much as all residents of the North Pole, I request that Nicholas be allowed to stay and listen to our deliberations. He has shared all his secrets with us, and I feel he is deserving of the same respect and information from us.”
Annie quickly seconded her husband's motion.
“I agree as well,” said Frederick.
So the Council allowed Nicholas to stay, and he sat silently but attentively as each Council member brought up what they thought might be dangerous precedents as well as wonderful discoveries and advances.
It was clear to Nicholas which members were on the side of his proposals and he thought it might just be the majority, although Ella, Whitey and Denny could argue either side effectively, and did.
It was finally his father who slammed the gavel again and said, “It is well and truly time to decide these issues. If the Council chooses it may do so by written vote or spoken vote but this must be decided as either way, the vote will have serious ramifications to our immediate future and plans. So first let us decide written or oral?”
Oral was chosen by a slim majority, and Kris said, “Very well, now do we decide each issue separately or together.”
Denny laughed and said, “In for a penny, in for a pound, I say they are inseparable and should be decided together.”
This also carried by a slightly larger majority.
“May I have the Council's vote please?”
Annie started the ball and said, “I vote yes on the issues.”
Frederick followed by a simple, “Yes.”
Carrow then sat up straight and said, “I have little doubt that the leadership of this body will decide properly and in the best way for the entire elven race, however Ulzana and I have decided to abstain from this vote. We wish to courteously abstain in this very important decision.”
“So two yeses, and two abstentions, next?” said Kris.
Ella said, “I vote in favor.”
Frieda said, “While I may be viewed as out of step with progress, I sometimes believe progress is not a good thing, I vote no.”
Denny cleared his throat, “If one of our wisest has seen the future and does not perceive a problem with aligning with the tallfolk, than I believe our new Santa Claus and his heart and vote, yes.”
Britney looked squarely at Nicholas and said, “I pray you know what you are doing as I have all my faith and trust in you as our new Santa, yes by me.”
Jackson said, “The Council already knows my views as they have not changed since the very first time we brought this up for discussion, now and always, I am in favor – definitely yes!”
Whitey looked sternly at Nicholas and said, “I will go along with these proposals with reservations, but know that if a threat ensues from these new policies, I will make certain that they are revoked with the quickest haste. So I vote yes.”
“I have a consensus,” said Kris. “I have seven in favor, one against and two abstentions. The motions carry, congratulations Nicholas.” He slammed the gavel again to emphasize the point.
Nicholas felt as if someone had just placed the world on his shoulders and it was heavy. He smiled and said, “I will do everything in my power to make you proud of the decision you made today.” With that he weakly rose to his feet and asked to be excused.
“I do not believe there is any more business before the Council,” said Kris. “I suggest we stand adjourned?”
Everyone nodded and Kris brought the gavel down for the last time that day.
The following Saturday, no one felt more like celebrating than Nicholas. He had officially become the new Santa Claus, and had already implemented the first of what would be a series of changes that would affect history in the North Pole and possibly the world.
The banquet in his honor was a rousing time with well wishing elves from all over the world who had returned to the Pole to meet the new Santa. Of course, a good many already had unofficially met him when he accompanied his father on his world tours at Christmas. Nicholas remembered them and was happy to see them in a more relaxed atmosphere. Even with the use of the time continuum, everything was under a great rush to move on to the next town, village or city when they would stop. Even so, the feast once more continued for days. While Nicholas had missed the previous banquets in his families honor, he was enjoying this one as if making up time.
Of course, Denny had once more prepared a sumptuous feast and the food seemed never ending. And being in the North Pole, as always, everyone could eat as much as they wished without ill effects or gaining any weight.
Sometime during the banquet the elves called for a speech. When Nicholas rose, he cleared his throat and as the din died down he said, “My dear friends and fellow bringers of joy, I appreciate everything I have here and all of you. But before I make my remarks, I believe it is only fitting that we first hear from the Santa Claus that brought so much joy to so many children and families and established us all in the hearts of so many, my father, Kristopher Kringle.”
Everyone stood and a thunderous ovation took place that lasted quite a while. Kris finally stood and bowed then raised his hands to call for quiet. “We have made so much history together that it is hard to imagine the true and total affect we have had on the world today. I could not have done this without the help and support of my lovely wife, the Council and each and every one of you. I am so proud that my son is taking over the legacy and legend and will do incredible and mighty things going forward. I look forward to quieter years and helping our new Santa Claus in a consulting role. I thank you for all the glorious years of service, and hope you will be as wonderful to my son as you have been to me. God bless every one of you.”
Again the crowd thundered their approval.
With that Kris sat down and Carrow Chekitwice stood up. He stated to the crowd, “Ever since we decided to invite Kris and Anne Marie to the North Pole those wonderful centuries ago, we have watched as they have fulfilled dreams and wishes throughout the world. We have seen Mrs. Kringle assume the responsibilities of the North Pole and work very hard to always keep the pace of our needs in check. Ulzana and I have always been, and continue to be, so proud of everyone and their efforts. So much so that it makes it very difficult to make this next statement. At the end of this year Ulzana and I will step down from the Council.” Murmured whispers ran through the crowd and Carrow waited for them to die down, “We will still remain active in our roles as tailor and in manufacturing, but we wish to make room for the new Santa Claus, whom we have every confidence in, and we, like Kris, wish to live at least a little quieter life as well.” He abruptly sat down saying all he wanted to say. Polite applause followed when they realized he was done.
This began a series of speeches from other members of the Council, each praising the work of Kris and Annie, excitement at the changes Nicholas would implement, and thanking the years of leadership from Carrow and Ulzana, and some reminisced about the beginnings of the North Pole and the changes that took place over the centuries.
Toward the end the crowd again called for the new Santa Claus. Nicholas stood and again addressed the crowd saying, “Many things will continue as the legend has continued. And many things will change as the world, itself, has changed. I will do my best to keep the North Pole at the technological and theoretical edge, while instilling the age-old traditions that have been handed down to me over the centuries. I look forward to working with and for every one of you and pray that you will enjoy me as much as my father. As he said, thank you and God bless you all.”
He sat to a standing ovation that continued as long as his father's had. He was pleased to see that the elves were accepting him as the new Santa and hoped it would continue until his retirement, whenever that may be.