by penny watson
“Young man, it is good to see you.” Hector grasped his arms with gnarled hands. Nicholas was surprised to feel a tremor there.
Achim stood suddenly and fidgeted with his sash. “Nicholas, please be seated. Before we begin, Hector has something to say.”
“Yes, yes I do.” Hector shuffled to his chair, but remained standing. “I feel that I must withdraw myself from the decision this evening. In fact, I am convinced that I am mostly to blame for the events of two days past. Nicholas was not thinking clearly; his loved one was dying. I, however, had a choice to make. And, for whatever reason, I chose to ignore a sacred rule of the council, and to use my magic to save the life of a Sudlander. I respectfully request that the council excuse me from the forum tonight.”
Achim cleared his throat nervously. “All in favor, say aye.”
Nicholas watched in astonishment as a unanimous decision was made to exclude Hector from the judgment.
Tobias stood and read from a scroll in front of him. “Nicholas Sebastian Klaus, son of Weihnachtsmann, heir to Weihnachtsmann, you have committed the following offenses which must be reviewed by the Elfin Council of Seven. First, you have brought a Sudlander to Glasdorf without prior permission of the council. Second, you have coerced a member of this council to use elfin magic to alter the outcome of a medical emergency on the previously mentioned Sudlander. What say you?”
Nicholas nodded. “Yes, I did commit these acts.”
Gerd shook his head and glared at Nicholas. “Truly, I did not think you capable of such outrageous behavior. Of all the Klaus sons, you were the one who seemed most clear-headed and responsible. It is difficult to believe that the heir to Weihnachtsmann has been so defiant.”
Ebbe concurred. “How could you disregard the laws of our village? You know how imperative it is that Glasdorf is kept secret from the Sudlanders. We cannot allow just anyone to know about this place. Only the council can look into the hearts and minds of Suddies to be assured of their loyalty.”
Nicholas nodded. “I understand. Under normal circumstances, I would have gained your approval first before bringing Lucy here, but there wasn’t time...”
Johan interrupted. “We were not aware that you had formed an attachment with a Sudlander, Nicholas. We would have happily honored your request for a visit.”
“Yes, I realize that...but...”
“Are you in love with her?” Otto’s direct gaze caught Nicholas off guard.
He turned to Otto to respond. “With all of my heart.”
“And so you allowed your emotions to dictate your actions? You always seemed such a disciplined, rational young man. This is shocking.” Ebbe shook his head in disgust.
“For God’s sake, Ebbe, let the boy speak.” Otto leaned over the table to peer at his colleague. “There is nothing wrong with emotion.”
“There is a time and place for everything, but not at the expense of our safety.” Achim’s eyes darted nervously.
Otto turned to Nicholas. “Please give the council an accounting of the events leading to this forum.”
Nicholas cleared his throat. “Thank you, Otto. As most of you already know, I frequently travel to the Sudenwelt. A colleague told me that the sugar cookies at a certain establishment were excellent, and I went there to investigate. The owner of the café is Lucy Anne Brewster. She is a very talented pastry chef, and also a kind and loving woman. On the morning I was to return to Glasdorf, Lucy was involved in an accident, and she was dying. I...I...”
Tobias gently placed his hand on Nicholas’ arm. “Take your time, young man. These must be difficult memories.”
“Quit coddling the boy, Tobias. Get on with it.” Ebbe rolled his eyes.
Nicholas swallowed. “I have never been so afraid in my life. I didn’t think about what I was doing. I just called Markus, and he brought us to Hector’s.” Nicholas turned to look at Hector, who was looking increasingly uncomfortable. “I forced Hector to save her. And thank God, he did. I would be lost if anything had happened to her that night.”
“That’s it? Your explanation? Ridiculous! That is simply unacceptable. Just because you are a member of the Klaus family, don’t think you are not bound by the laws of Glasdorf, like the rest of us, young man!” Spittle flew from Gerd’s mouth as he yelled.
Ebbe pounded the table. “I agree! The pact made by our forefathers clearly delineates the most critical aspects of this community...respect for the magic, the vital need for secrecy. How a Klaus intending to fill the role of Weihnachtsmann could possibly ignore these laws is beyond my understanding. Shame on you, Nicholas!”
Otto sighed. “Calm down, Ebbe.” He turned to Nicholas. “I am reluctant to admit it, but Ebbe has made a valid point. The future Weihnachtsmann must be above reproach. Although we were willing to extend some flexibility with your brother’s questionable behavior, you are certainly not in the same situation, Nicholas.”
“I know, I apologize, Otto. I give you my word that it will not happen again. I never intended to disappoint the council, or my parents.”
Johan stroked his beard thoughtfully and regarded Nicholas. “Our disappointment with you is not solely limited to these transgressions, Nicholas. You are not showing any indication of readiness for the role of Weihnachtsmann. In the near future, you must assume responsibility for Glasdorf, and yet you continue to toil away in that bakery of yours. Have you sat down with your father and begun instruction? When will your apprenticeship begin? We have waited patiently for you, but enough is enough.”
Gerd’s expression became more grim. “Excellent point, Johan. Nicholas has an enormous obligation to fulfill as the eldest Klaus son, and it’s high time he embraced it. Your father has carried out his duty faithfully for many years. It is time for you to put aside piddly interests and assume leadership.”
“With all due respect, Gerd, I do not consider Klaus Küche a ‘piddly interest.’ I’ve worked hard for years to establish my reputation as a master baker. I have every intention of honoring the pact, once my father informs me he is ready to step down.”
Ebbe scowled. “Show a little initiative, young man. The time has come!”
Johan turned to Hector. “We seem to have gotten a bit off track at these proceedings. May we continue with the discussion concerning Nicholas’ disregard for the rules in question?”
“Fine! Get on with it, then!” Ebbe grumbled.
Johan spoke to Hector. “Is Nicholas’ recollection of the events which occurred two nights past a true accounting?
Hector sighed. “Yes, for the most part. But as I have already mentioned, I made the decision to heal Miss Lucy. I am also responsible for what transpired that evening. And, according to the laws of Glasdorf, I must also be held accountable.”
Tobias held up a hand. “Just a minute, Hector. I would like to know how you saved Lucy’s life.”
“I used the red sphere, the most powerful magic I have. She would not have survived otherwise. Her wounds were severe.”
Otto nodded deliberately. “The red sphere, you say. I thought that sphere was quite choosy about her tasks. I’ve heard stories that she has refused treatment for certain patients...”
Achim chimed in, “Yes, I have also heard such things. Wasn’t there an incident with Hans Ulderman?”
“The man who was beating his wife?”
“Yes, that’s the one. Supposedly, the red sphere refused to touch him. Later, they found out about his violent nature.”
Johan joined in. “Yes, I remember that incident. And another one, too. It was the Schiffer’s baby...”
“The one who was choking on magik pebbles? She almost died,” added Achim.
“What happened with the babe?”
“I think the baby was choking, unbeknownst to the parents. The red sphere jumped from the cabinet and saved her before anyone realized what was happening.” Johan looked at Hector for confirmation.
“Yes, this story is indeed true. Little Elsa was apprenticed to me a while ago. She has blossome
d into quite a talented healer.”
Tobias looked thoughtfully at Hector. “Is it possible that the red sphere was privy to a future that must be fulfilled? That it directed you onto the path you must take?”
“He brings up an interesting point, Hector.” Otto tapped his fingers on the polished table in front of him. “You are not one to defy our rules. If your heart led you to this choice, then you must trust that it was the right thing to do.”
Johan nodded in agreement. “At some point Nicholas Junior must take a bride and continue the line to fulfill the duty of the Klaus family. It appears that fate simply hurried the process along a bit.”
Hector answered slowly. “It does seem possible...I must say, I was somewhat surprised by the healing. The red sphere appeared to recognize the union of these two, Nicholas and Lucy Anne.”
“Fascinating. How exactly did this occur?” Tobias asked.
“She touched the spot above both of their hearts, one after another. She knew they were already linked, and I had the distinct impression...well, that she was blessing their future together. I have never seen her react in such a way.”
“See, this is exactly what I am talking about.” Tobias’ eyes lit up as he looked at Hector. “Our magic has a way of working things out, regardless of our laws. It sees a bigger picture than we are privy to. We must not question the ways of fate.”
Hector smiled. “Perhaps you are correct, Tobias. Perhaps these things were simply meant to be.”
Ebbe coughed. “I, for one, am not so eager to let young Nicholas off the hook. He should be held accountable for his actions.” He turned to Hector. “And you, Hector, well...I think you simply need a vacation.”
Gerd looked sternly at Nicholas. “You are next in line to be Weihnachtsmann. You have a duty to uphold the laws of Glasdorf and set yourself as an example for everyone in this village. If indeed it is true that elfin magic has played a part in this scenario, then I feel you are somewhat exonerated. But the council still needs your reassurance that you will promise to obey the laws of this realm in the future. And to accept all of the responsibilities of the role of Santa. Are you willing to do this, young man?’
Nicholas realized at that moment the price he would pay for saving Lucy’s life. It would soon be time to give up Klaus Küche and accept the position of Weihnachtsmann. “I apologize to the council for failing to uphold our laws. And, yes, Gerd, I have every intention of fulfilling my destiny as the oldest Klaus son in our family. However, I will not apologize for saving Lucy’s life.”
Otto smiled indulgently at Nicholas. “Tell us about Lucy, Nicholas. Is she trustworthy? Will she reveal our existence to the world or protect our secrets? Is she loyal to you?”
“Lucy is the most loyal, loving and trustworthy woman I have ever met. I have every confidence that she will guard our secrets. She has already captured the hearts of elves all over Glasdorf.”
Tobias laughed. “That is certainly true. Many of the workers at Klaus Küche are singing her praises.”
Johan raised an eyebrow. “And at Dag’s, too. We have a petition here signed by over a hundred elves.”
Nicholas blanched. “Uhh, yes, she may have played a couple of rounds of darts at the bar. Lucy has a way about her. She truly cares about everyone she meets.”
Otto placed a pair of reading glasses on the tip of his nose and removed several sheets of paper from his pocket. “I also have a letter of support from Nicholas’ parents, as well as his brothers. I would like to read them if you don’t mind...”
“Well, I do mind!” shouted Ebbe. “Of course Nicky Sr. and Alena will stand behind their eldest son. Their love for him and all of the boys has never been questioned. However, a letter from the rest of that gang of hooligans is not exactly a ringing endorsement...”
Gerd snorted. “Oh, yes, let’s hear what the reformed juvenile delinquents have to say. Should be fascinating.”
Otto looked perturbed. “Cut the sarcasm, Gerd. The brothers have written a very eloquent letter of support for their brother.”
Nicholas was astounded. “My brothers did that, for me?”
Gerd laughed. “Probably while consuming several gallons of Schwarz biers at Dag’s, no doubt.”
Otto ignored Gerd’s comment and began to read. “To the members of the Council of Seven. We are concerned about the recent events involving our brother, Nicholas. We hope that the council does not overlook all of his past accomplishments and loyalty when determining his fate at the Tag der Rache. Although he may have broken a few rules, he has shown undying devotion to his family and all of Glasdorf over the years, and we do not believe that the acts of a single night should cancel out all of the good things he has done in his life. He has worked tirelessly at Klaus Küche, bringing much pride to the elves who work there. We could not have asked for a better brother. Nicholas looked out for us regardless of our short-comings. He protected us, taught us even though we often exasperated him, and stood loyally behind us, regardless of our antics. He put up with a lot of trouble from us over the years, but never once let us down when we needed his help for any reason. We have the utmost faith in his abilities and realize that any defiant acts on his part were purely unintentional and not done with any malicious intent. Our brother is a good and loyal man, and deserves the respect of all of the members of Glasdorf, including the Council. Respectfully yours, Sven, Gregor, Wolfgang and Oskar Klaus.”
“My God, I can’t believe my brothers did that...” Nicholas took a deep breath and looked at Otto who was nodding in agreement.
“I can’t believe it, either. The hoodlums are literate,” Gerd said.
Johan addressed the council. “The brothers make a good point. Nicholas has accomplished much in his young life, and has shown unwavering loyalty to his family and Glasdorf prior to this incident. We must take that into consideration when judging him.”
“Yes, I agree,” added Otto. “One instance of ill behavior cannot negate all of the good he has done.”
“Fine, fine. I think it is reasonable to consider his past exemplary behavior when determining our ruling. Let’s move on.” Gerd waved his hand dismissively.
Ebbe grunted. “Yes, this is a complete waste of time. I would like to discuss Hector’s culpability in this matter. Nicholas, do you believe Hector is at fault in any way?”
“Absolutely not. Contrary to what Hector may believe, he is not at fault here. I forcefully insisted that he save Lucy’s life. And I am in his debt always for his act of compassion.”
“Hector has served as the head of the council for many years, displaying excellent leadership and sound judgment on all matters. If the red sphere willingly saved this woman’s life, then I think that Hector’s actions should be forgiven,” said Johan.
Achim nodded. “I agree. Hector was put in a difficult situation by young Nicholas. It is not easy to refuse the son of Weihnachtsmann, for any reason.”
Ebbe turned to look at Hector, and the old man’s wrinkled face softened a bit. “Yes, our relationship with the Klaus family is a bit thorny, is it not? Difficult to refuse the saviors of our race regardless of our position in Glasdorf. Hector, do not look so forlorn.”
Tobias turned to the other elves. “I think we are agreed that Hector deserves some latitude in regard to his actions. And young Nicholas seems determined to uphold our laws in the future. Lucy appears to be a wonderful candidate for the wife of Weihnachtsmann. I, for one, think that Nicholas should be absolved of these crimes and allowed to continue as heir. It seems the time has come for Überholen, the passing of the torch.”
Johan nodded forcefully. “I fully agree with Tobias. Hector could not have healed this woman unless the red sphere deemed it. The magic has spoken to us...we must listen carefully.”
Achim nodded. “The council will discuss your fate, young man. Please wait in the hallway until we call you for the judgment.”
Nicholas bowed to the council. “Thank you for allowing me to be heard this evening. I will willingly
abide by any decision the council metes out.”
Hector stood and shuffled to Nicholas’ side. “I, too, will await your judgment. Come along, Nicholas.” The two of them entered the long hallway. They leaned against the cold walls as the small arched doorway closed, enveloping them in darkness.
“Hector, I am so sorry. I never meant to get you into trouble. You saved Lucy’s life...”
The old elf shook his head and laughed gently. “Do not worry, Nicholas. I believe the council is right about magic interfering in this process. These things were meant to be. All will be well.”
Nicholas could hear murmuring in the next room, punctuated by an occasional outburst. About quarter of an hour passed, and then the door opened, revealing Tobias in his velvet robe. His hood was down, and he reached towards Nicholas and Hector with open arms.
“Please join us, my friends. We are ready.”
Nicholas and Hector moved in front of the table and awaited the council’s announcement.
Johan cleared his throat. “Hear this, Nicholas Sebastian Klaus, son and heir of Nicholas, Weihnachtsmann. We, the Council of Seven, have made a decision.”
Six wizened faces greeted him with somber expressions.
“The council has decided to trust in the hands of fate today. Although you have broken two sacred laws of Glasdorf, it appears that our magic may have encouraged the outcome of these events. It does seem that the Sudlander Lucy Anne Brewster will make an exceptional partner to the future Weihnachtsmann, and is trust-worthy and loyal. In addition, you have exhibited exemplary behavior in the past, and have proven yourself to be more than worthy of the position of Santa for the upcoming generation of Glasdorf. The Council will make a recommendation to Nicholas Senior that you shall take over the role of Weihnachtsmann within twelve cycles of the moon. It is time for you to fulfill your destiny, to honor the pact made centuries ago.”
“In conclusion, the council forgives your transgressions, and gives our blessing to your union with Lucy Anne Brewster.”
Johan turned to Hector. “Hector, our good friend, and head of the Council of Seven, we absolve you of any and all guilt pertaining to the events of the day in question. Clearly, your magic was only successful based on the merits of this case, resulting in an outcome that is critical to the welfare and future of Glasdorf.” In a softer voice, Johan whispered to his friend, “Do not lose trust in yourself, Hector. You have served Glasdorf well for many years. And will continue to do so, I have no doubt.”