View source for 967/The Year Without a Santa Claus!

{{Log Header
|Date of Scene=2024/01/05
|Location=Cafeteria Plaza
|Synopsis=Backdated to Christmas Eve!: A kind old woman asks for help saving her husband at Radiant Heart Academy.
|Cast of Characters=47,39,30,145,127,107
|pretty=yes
}}
{{Poses
|Poses=:'''{{#var:47|Nanoha Takamachi (47)}} has posed:'''<br>You're here for potentially a few reasons.<br><br>*The headmistress had a note delivered to you to come to the cafeteria.<br><br>* The arrival of a sleight pulled by two reindeer onto the grounds on Christmas eve piqued your interest<br><br>Or<br><br>* You're just getting something to eat late at night.<br><br>Or perhaps there's some other reason...<br><br>Regrdless, There is now an older woman, in a festive red dress, baking cookies, pouring milk, pouring hot chocolate in the cafeteria around a group of tables. The feeling of this site feels strangely inviting and kind.<br><br>Nanoha Takamachi is already here, with Yuuno, sipping hot chocolate and partaking of gingerbread cookies. Nanoha Takamachi hasn't gotten the chance to ask what this is about yet.<br><br>"Everyone, please, have a seat, have some cookies, some milk, and some hot chocolate." the older woman says.<br><br>The deer and sleigh just outside the plaza doors seem behaved and deal with approaches just well enough without being spooked. They gruff in the cold, Christmas Eve night.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:39|Hotaru Tomoe (39)}} has posed:'''<br>Hotaru Tomoe came out because... well... Why wouldn't she? She was totally a student here. And the fact she came out of the dorms region was totally because she was just visiting a friend. Not because she was using Takashi's room while he was out of town and avoiding her home during the empty holiday time.<br><br>So, upon hearing a sleight arrive she had to go check it out. And there were COOKIES! And they were delicious. And she was, admittedly, nibbling on one. Milk AND hot chocolate? She did, in fact, dip her cookies into said milk. It was awesome. "Hi!" she said happily to Nanoha. "I'm Hotaru Tomoe, nice to meet you." She wondered if this was some fun christmas event.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:30|Kureha Senkenzan (30)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kureha had not planned to come here this evening. She's already had her own dinner. She'd have no transportation. She is typically somewhat of a homebody. There's a number of reasons not to show up.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But after a visit a short while ago by a certain Christmas ghost, the scion of the Senkenzan and Chikafuji families has been feeling a tad restless. That's when she'd remembered a note delivered to her that she had fully intended to ignore. And her own decision to stop ignoring the outside world. And, of course, she does have ''one'' way to get out to Radiant Heart Academy.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pay no attention to the kimono-clad fire oni bounding across the Tokyo skyline. That's not Santa, seriously.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There is a slightly awkward peek in the cafeteria door, a pair of crimson eyes looking around the students' eatery with a mix of curiosity and hesitance. "Is... is this the meeting place?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:145|Veronica Perenna (145)}} has posed:'''<br>Veronica's reason to be there is very much reason B. She isn't particularly known for keeping her curiosity at bay, and come on, two reindeers pulling a sleigh at this time of the year? ''Anyone'' would do the same. So she has thrown on her comfiest sweater with snowflakes dancing through it and warmest owl slippers and made her way down to the cafeteria to understand what was going on.<br><br>She nods at the woman's invitation, at helping herself to the hot chocolate, the brunette takes a seat and waits eagerly for the explanation that is coming. "I hope you have had a good travel, madam. I am Veronica Perenna, pleasure to make your acquaintance."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:127|Laisa Samuiko (127)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's the day before Christmas, which also means it's the day before Laisa Samuiko's actual birthday. Which means that it's the first birthday she's had after being outcast from her clan. Having no one to spend this time with, and a lot to think about, she finds herself wandering around the school grounds until she ends up at the school's Cafeteria.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here she finds a welcoming sight. Pleasant smells fill the air. A strange, yet friendly woman is here. The general mystery of this warm Christmas scene is enough to make her forget her worries for the moment. Moving closer, she silently accepts some of the treats before going to sit down. Somehow, she gets the feeling that she ''should'' be here. The sleigh also caught her eye, but she's seen enough magic to only be mildly confused by it rather than completely disturbed.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As she munches on a freshly baked cookie and sips hot cocoa, she gives the red-clad woman her full and undivided attention. Whatever this is... seems important, if mysterious.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:107|Amy Faust (107)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What a day. Coco's sister(!) attacked, it turned out the music teacher, Taro-sensei, was her ex, and the mermaid queen herself showed up to briefly talk to them. Tonight, though, Amy's just going to stay in and relax.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Although, as she glances from her computer screen to the window and sees that fresh snow is continuing to fall, she suddenly longs for an old treat.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While on the roof of her dorm scooping snow into a cup, she sees a sleigh come down.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;WHAT.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It can't be, right?<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Like no way.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;NO WAY SANTA'S REAL.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy Faust steps into the cafeteria in a magically-produced christmas outfit. Red-with-white-faux-fur boots and dress and a hat with matching striped stockings. She's holding a tall cup of snow.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She stares at the old lady preparing cookies. SANTA CLAUS IS A WOMAN? I mean, no reason why not, not like anyone's really seen him, but it's still surprising.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Did..." she stammers, mouth hanging open. "Is that your sleigh outside?"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The idea to introduce herself to Santa(?) doesn't occur to her. Santa knows ''every'' little kid, to keep track of whether they've been naughty or nice, after all, and therefor knows everyone who has ever ''been'' a little kid, as well.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:47|Nanoha Takamachi (47)}} has posed:'''<br>The older woman places a fresh plate for decorated sugar cookies out onto the table, making them in less time, somehow than it takes for most people to arrive it's like. Magic. She first addresses Amy Faust. "Mnn. No, that isn't my sleigh, it's my husbands. Please. Have a seat. Have some cookies. Have some hot chocolate. It's cold out, you know."<br><br>Misses Claus does not have the omnipotence her husband does, so she needs names. Veronica gives hers so, she replies. "Hello Veronica!" she says.<br><br>"Yes, this is the meeting place. I see my old friend had sent out the notices quick... there's an urgent matter to discuss, but... please, introduce yourselves, while I gather my thoughts." she says with a smile.<br><br>Nanoha Takamachi goes wide eyed, mid gingerbread bite and says. "Nanoha Takamachi! and this is yuuno, my ferret." she says.<br><br>"W..what is this about Miss...?"<br><br>"I got a letter on my door... which is strange. Because my room's at home!" she says. Strange!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:39|Hotaru Tomoe (39)}} has posed:'''<br>Hotaru Tomoe was just here for cookies and milk, honestly. However... Upon looking up.... well... "Wait... ummmm... is... is this a magic thing? Cause... I didn't get an invite. I just saw there was a reindeer and I wanted to come pet them. And then there was cookies and milk," she said sheepishly.<br><br>"I should, ummm, probably... go. So there's no, ummmm... issues. Or things." She quickly bowed her head before shuffling towards the exit...<br><br>... But she would wait outside the door. You know. Just in case there was something that really needed help and she couldn't reveal her identity for. And she didn't even hum any spy music this time!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:30|Kureha Senkenzan (30)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh. Okay, it's the place. Kureha steps in the door properly, and regards those who've arrived. Veronica she recognizes. Amy, she recognizes. Everyone else... new people. And the oba-san plating sugar cookies makes a very good point. "Senkenzan Kureha. It is a pleasure to make everyone's acquaintance." The kimono-clad girl bends at the waist in a very polite, formal bow; but those who already know her will no doubt realize that she seems somehow... less stiff. Less tense. When Hotaru moves past her, she speaks a soft, "I think... if you are here, you are most likely welcome. That seems to be the way of things."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And then she takes a step in, walking with her hands folded in front of herself until the moment she's in arm's reach of one of those cookie platters.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nom.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:107|Amy Faust (107)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy deflates slightly at the negative response, then realizes what was said and returns to being shocked. "He's '''REAL?!'''"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"...Um. I'm Amanda Faust. T-though there was another name when I was still writing letters. To your husband. H-he got me a lot of videogames. And a Megazord." Wait, hold on, her parents later ''admitted'' to buying all those, so if Santa Claus is real... yeah, there'd be evidence, right? Parents would find extra gifts under the tree they didn't buy. Did. Did no one tell her because she's not a parent? No, no one keeps a secret that well!<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And yet, magical girls are real, and yokai.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And there doesn't even have to be a magical veil. Just how much did you know about trans people even four months ago, Amanda???<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;''What else do you not know about?!''<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lost in thought, she goes to get some honey packets to mix with her snow and then sits down.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She takes a sip of hot chocolate. It is no doubt perfect. She takes another long sip before mixing her cup of honey snow.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I saw your sleigh come down. I thought you weren't... I thought you and your husband weren't real. Sorry. So I had to come see."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:145|Veronica Perenna (145)}} has posed:'''<br>That isn't her sleigh, but her husband's, she says. So they are actually talking to the one and only Mrs. Claus, in the flesh? And she has greeted her back just like that? Is this a dream or real life?<br><br>Doubting that she is anyone but the real deal doesn't even pass through Veronica's mind. The air she carries herself with would be enough to dispel any doubt, but the reindeers. The sleigh. The rapidly prepared cookies.<br><br>What will she have to say to come over here in person? She has been good this year. All her thefts have been for a good cause, and have produced much more good than loss.<br><br>Though Veronica has already introduced herself, so she just sips her hot choco drink and nibbles at the occasional cookie (how come everything tastes so good?) and just waves with a smile at Amy and Kureha.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:127|Laisa Samuiko (127)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Laisa raises an eyebrow at this. Wait, this person is Missus Claus? Like... the ''actual''?<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Curious. Such things really do exist. Considering the magical things she's seen over the past months, she can't be too surprised.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A little girl leaves. Laisa is left to wonder if she should stay, go henshin, or something. She quietly munches on a cookie before she decides how to introduce herself.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Saumiko Laisa. Grade 7. I must say that this hot cocoa is delicious. Is it home made?"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sadly, being a spoiled rich kid, she has no notion of how long it actually takes to bake things. The magical speed is lost on her, but the quality of the food is not. She eats in tiny bites as she glances around the room. Most of these people are unknown to her, though she may have seen one or two in passing before. It's a big school.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So... you're actually Mrs. Claus? I suppose your husband must be really busy tonight."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:47|Nanoha Takamachi (47)}} has posed:'''<br>Mrs. Claus, who's been outted, finally, says. "Yes. I am a Mrs. Claus." she says. "Thank you all, for showing up. Everyone and I do mean everyone, can someone please get that poor girl before she goes too far?" she asks in relation to Firefly as she motions to the door.<br><br>"Normally, yes. He would be very busy, spreading the spirit of Christmas about." she says, motioning to the air. "But this year something dreadful happened, I'm afraid." she says, looking at Amy, a little apologetic. "Oh it's fine. Children grow out of believing in Santa all the time." she says, as if it wasn't any big deal.<br><br>"...a being called Toymajin attacked the North Pole workshop, you see, something about... helping abandoned toys, but. He was rather violent about it all." she says with some concern.<br><br>"It was rather a mess. I escaped to find help. I understand some of you might be able to help. Or. Know people. That might be able to help." she says, placing a finger to her nose a moment.<br><br>Nanoha Takamachi looks with wide eyes. "S..santa's in danger!?" she says, balling up her fists in front of her. "We have to help..!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:39|Hotaru Tomoe (39)}} has posed:'''<br>Hotaru Tomoe let out a gasp when she heard that from her hiding spot... okay. Time to go! She ran off. Welp, she was just a mundane... but... while she wasn't supposed to get involved because she was a darkle skirt... she couldn't NOT help santa. Did she believe in Santa? Meh. Made as much sense as anything else.<br><br>A few minutes later, from one of the other doors, dark sparkle theme music could be heard. and then... "It's time for a hero villain team uuuuuup!"<br><br>Firefly entered through the opposite door! "I got a letter!" Well, the others did so who knew? Maybe she had one. "Santa needs help? I'm in!" Pause. "But it's only for this one time, remember that! But everyone knows hero slash villain team ups are the BEST!"<br><br>Someone read too many comic books.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:107|Amy Faust (107)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Laisa comments that Santa must be very busy. "Not if his sleigh is ''here.''" Amy observes. "Wait, is there more than one?"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mrs. Claus says it's okay, but Amy hangs her head shamefully all the same. Briefly distracted from what was said just before, until Mrs. Claus describes the situation and she stares at the woman in dawning horror. "Santa Claus is in trouble?! Well... o... of course I'll help! I'm a magical girl..."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She stands up, hands on the table. "We have to go! Um... how many people can you bring? How long do we have to gather people??" She starts patting down her dress trying to remember where her phone is. She has magical girls to text!<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She does not try to stop Hotaru. That order seems questionable. But when Firefly arrives later and announces they're doing a hero-villain teamup, she asks, unrecognizing: "You're a villain? Who are you?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:30|Kureha Senkenzan (30)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kureha's mouth is just completely full of cookie when Mrs. Claus explains the situation. And starting from the 'yes I am actually Mrs. Claus', the young Senkenzan just kind of... goes still. Her mental process may have frozen a little. Only the sound of Nanoha's voice jars her out of it, prompting a quick nom-swallow, and a slightly embarrassed use of napkin to remove crumbs. "I..." She pauses, glancing around. At Amy, at Veronica. And, of course, there's herself. The assumption practically makes itself, and she decides to discard any sort of decorum. "I will assist in whatever way I am able." Pause. "...i-it's not an issue if I follow Shinto, is it?"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then, there is Firefly. Blink, blink blink. "...'villain'?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:127|Laisa Samuiko (127)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Laisa hms as the older woman confirms her identity. So... that's how it is. She looks around at the crowd for a moment, and then clears her throat. "Ah, yes. Know someone. Right. I might... know someone like that."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The girl gets up and walks out of the room, ducking around corners and the like until she's relatively sure she's alone. The person who comes back is, in fact, Snow Angel Mou Fubuki. She's still holding Laisa's cup of hot chocolate, though. Along with her plate of cookies.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Accursed yuki-onna takes a seat, and continues sipping her warm drink as she waits to hear things out.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So this... Toymajin is worried about abandoned toys? Seems strange to take that out on Santa." Unless, of course, kids are getting brand new toys only to abandon them later? Something about that does seem a little sad.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Firefly shows up, making no attempt to hide her villainy nor the fact that she's setting it aside for now. "A villain showing up to save Christmas? Sure, why not." Mou doesn't have much history with anyone here, so she has no strong feelings one way or another.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy's boldness makes her wonder if there's even a point in hiding her identity. Whatever. She's in henshin now. No going back.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:145|Veronica Perenna (145)}} has posed:'''<br>Veronica is actually eager to help and she is about to reach Hotaru, but the other girl was already at the door, so she had all the advantage she needed to disappear. The brunette looks back contrite to Mrs. Claus and says out loud "Sorry, I lost her." She is in fact oddly nowhere to be seen out there, Firefly's arrival nonwithstanding.<br><br>"How does that work with the whole coal deal?" Veronica asks puzzled to Mrs. Claus regarding's Firefly's villain status. "Is she stuck getting no presents year after year? Or do they get some sort of redemption points based on other things they have done?"<br><br>She then feels the urge to clarify an important matter, though. "I am not saying this to imply she shouldn't come. If she wants to take part in this, then she can go right ahead. Saving your husband is really important and I am not understimating this Toymajin."<br><br>She adjusts the collar of the sweater before continuing. "I am more than ready to help too. If we need to defeat this demon, talk him out of it, or break Santa Claus out of his confinement, please let me help. For the second option, we would need to know more about this how this help the toys."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:47|Nanoha Takamachi (47)}} has posed:'''<br>The Veil protects you, unless you tell people outright. So people leaving, transforming, coming back... it's like another person walked out and someone else walked in. Mrs. Claus still welcomes people in. Regardless, as she continues. "I don't know what the nonsense is about. But that's what I think, too." she says, in relation to the abandoned toys and their relation to Toymajin, as she pushes another tray of cookies into the table. These ones are chocolate chip.<br><br>She also refill drinks. When Firefly comes in, she welcomes her, the same as anyone else and Mrs. Claus addresses coal. "Oh, you'd be surprised at the amount of children that actually qualify for ''coal''. It's basically non-existent." she asides.<br><br>"Oh, the sleigh holds more than you think. Always." she says. Words for 'it's bigger on the inside' as she folds her hands in front of her.<br><br>"This is going to be dangerous, most likely. There will be more than the big issue to handle..." she says. "I'm afraid."<br><br>"Oh, you're fine." she says to Kureha. "We all follow our own path. As long as you're willing to help!" she says.<br><br>Nanoha Takamachi is just wide eyed, because SANTA IS REAL AND SHE'S BEING ASKED TO HELP! "Of course I'll help, when do we go!?" she asks.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:39|Hotaru Tomoe (39)}} has posed:'''<br>Firefly nodded. "Indeed! I am, in fact... Firefly! The dark magical girl! Wild! Rebellious! Dangerous! Good at parties! ... Okay, not really that last one but I AM useful! Riventon-senpai says so. I am also his NUMBER ONE assistant!" Sure, not his second in command. But she IS his number one assistant! That mattered!<br><br>"And just because I'm a villain doesn't mean I can't love Santa! Everyone loves Santa, even villains! And you know, Coal isn't the worst gift, it's just a sign that you've been naughty but it's also something that they get because even naughty kids deserve something nice on christmas! Even if Santa doesn't get me any gifts, he gets good kids gifts and that's enough!""<br><br>Then she glanced to Nanoha and... "OH! I remember you! You're Fate-kohai's friend, right? Nice to see you again. Don't worry, this time I won't be your enemy!"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:30|Kureha Senkenzan (30)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There is a side glance at Firefly from Kureha, and then a brief nod. "That is correct. In older times, even coal would have been a gift of sorts. A means to keep warm over the winter, correct?" she adds, glancing at Mrs. Claus. There was a time where that would have been very welcome indeed.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;However, her help having been accepted, the ebon-haired girl reaches up to give her hair a casual flip. "If my help is acceptable, then I shall give as much as I am able. My only weapons are my words and my magic, but I shall offer both in equal measure." She would ask what comes next, but... well, Nanoha's got that covered!<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:107|Amy Faust (107)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The name Firefly is brought up, Amy ''thinks'' but barely stops herself from ''saying:'' The one who killed one of the bad guys and Sailor Moon got blamed for it?! Damn. Dangerous little girl... Still... "If you save Santa, I'm sure you deserve presents..."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I wish I had a thermos for this hot chocolate... if we're going to the North Pole, I feel like I'm gonna need it..." She will take a moment before heading out to enjoy her honey snow and a cookie or two, too.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She looks to Mrs. Claus. "So you don't know anything about this Toymajin? Are you able to text Santa or any of the elves for an update? Or... check your home security cameras remotely, if extant?"<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:127|Laisa Samuiko (127)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Riventon," mutters Mou Fubuki. "Wasn't he the guy with the vacuum cleaner youma? Waaait... you were there, too! I remember now." Could someone that precious truly be evil? Well... probably.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mou pauses before picking up a new cookie, but eventually she gives into temptation. Grab. Nomf.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nanoha poses her questions, and Mou quietly listens as she chews. Once swallowing, she adds, "Right. Do we have any leads? Do you know where your husband is right now, or where Toymajin went off to? Any clues would help, no matter how small they might seem."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She says this with perfect confidence, pretending as if she knows even the first thing about investigating and isn't just copying something she saw in a TV show.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"My magic is particularly suited to cold weather, so that is no issue for me. I'm sure I'll be able to help you defeat this Toymajin."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:145|Veronica Perenna (145)}} has posed:'''<br>A quick change in front of everyone, and the Princess of Sarek is added to the list of participants. Forget identity issues, this is about Christmas.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:47|Nanoha Takamachi (47)}} has posed:'''<br>Mrs. Claus looks at Amy and answers that question first. "I'm afraid not. Everything happened so fast, my husband isn't replying and everything appears to be offline." she says to Amy. "I'm afraid Toymajin isn't one of the usual rapscallions that Santa cotends with once in a while. I know nothing about him except he showed up, Demanded Santa stopped making toys and it was pure chaos after that." she says softly.<br><br>She says. "I'm certain he's squatting up in the North Pole, in the workshop." she says.<br><br>She 'ohs'. "There will be thermoses in the sleigh. Don't worry. If you can't handle the cold. There will be jackets available that will help!" she says.<br><br>Nanoha Takamachi looks at Firefly and crosses her eyes a little as she sputters. "Fate-chan says I'm a friend!?" she blushes fiercely.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:127|Laisa Samuiko (127)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So let me see if I understand this correctly," states Mou Fubuki. "This... Toymajin has captured not only Santa Claus, but also his workshop at the North Pole, and is likely holding there long enough to... what, stop Santa from delivering toys tonight?" The snow angel leans against the table and props up her cheek with her hand. "I'm guessing he's holding the elves too, in which case we're dealing with multiple captives, possibly hostages, all of whom are either magic or magic-adjacent enough for the distinction to not matter."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"If were' going to charge in like some kind of mahou S.W.A.T. team we should probably go in knowing as much as we can. Do we have a blueprint of Santa's Workshop, or is it one of those non-Euclidian things where consistent space isn't a thing?"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She goes back to munching on cookies while waiting for a response.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:107|Amy Faust (107)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"It's fine. I got clothes magic." Amy gestures vaguely. "I mean, I can make clothes. I don't think I can make ''magic'' clothes. At the North Pole it's..." She tries to search on her phone. "...It's probably colder than anywhere I've ever been. Are they magic jackets?"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So um. How big is the workshop?"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She nods to the Snow Angel's comments. "Pretty sure I can do riot control stuff like smoke grenades if that's what we end up having to do. But we're gonna try talking first, right?"<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her plan is to step out of sight on their way to the sleigh, henshin, and see if the veil holds. Better than not trying anything...<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:39|Hotaru Tomoe (39)}} has posed:'''<br>Firefly let the other girls focus on things like... 'works shop maps' and 'competent planning'. That was usually Takashi's job, anyway.<br><br>She did nod to Mou, however. "Yup! That plan totally... sucked! Hee hee hee!" Yes. She did, in fact, enjoy awful puns. She had a heart of vileness.<br><br>She turned back to Nanoha and was about to say 'Not in so many words'.... but... but the girl... too cute... too adorable... "Of course she did! You're like her rival and stuff, right? And rivals are just friends who you occasionally have to bunch or blow up! But that doesn't mean you stop being friends. Just ask TV."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:30|Kureha Senkenzan (30)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a curious look from Kureha at Mou Fubuki; and then, the red-eyed young lady reaches into the neckline of her kimono for the magatama pendant tucked there. "My own magic is also quite well-suited to the cold, though in perhaps... a different way." A pause, and then slightly apologetic, "I apologize if this makes you uncomfortable."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kureha's pupils draw upward and downward, from simple pupils into slits. And then there is fire. Harmless to others, but noticeably warm, even at a distance. Whirling, flowing, creeping over her figure, replacing the existing pattern of her kimono with orange flame on a black background. It all ends with a declaration, intoned words accompanied by an imperious flip of that ebon hair - prompting a brief sheet of flames to recolor an underlayer from black to red. "Rekka Saisei. Youkai Musume... Onihime."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A pause.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'S... somehow this feels much more awkward when there's no immediate threat...' Fidget.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"...i-if anyone needs additional protection from the cold. Stay close."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:145|Veronica Perenna (145)}} has posed:'''<br>The prospect of having a thermos for the warm chocolate to sip from on the way is actually great, even if their magical forms aren't as susceptible to the lack of heat as they would otherwise be. Good thing Amy asked, and Veronica tells her as much.<br><br>"Do we know anything on how Santa is doing?", Veronica asks, going back to deciding on a course of action with everyone. "If there is a need of someone to scout ahead, becoming ethereal and camouflage is my specialty." As a Phantom Thief does.<br><br>"I can report on any hostages and difficulties of the path ahead, as well as take small amount of stuff with me from the Workshop that may be useful to have for our incursion", she tells the snow angel.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:47|Nanoha Takamachi (47)}} has posed:'''<br>Mrs. Claus frowns a little. "I'm afraid I didn't bring many of the, what you'd call, esoteric things with me. But I can assure you I know the layout like the back of my hand. It's large though." she says. "'Bigger on the inside'?" she says as she makes a little rocking motion with her hand. "He brought with him an army of..of large nutcrackers with him. I don't know where that came from either." she says.<br><br>Mrs. Claus scoffs at Onihime and says. "No one is judging you here." she says.<br><br>"So I'm afraid I'm not much help in the information department but I'll relate what I can along the way." she says.<br><br>"I'm sure you all have some way to help, in your own expertise. If I was any help, well. I wouldn't need to come for it, and don't worry. Magic Jackets." she says.<br><br>She looks to Veronica and says. "There will be another trial to handle before we get there and figure out the situation. I will explain along the way." she says.<br><br>Nanoha Takamachi looks at Firefly, and why would she lie? Her eye go wide as she listens. "So cool..." she says dramatically, before shaking her head and saying. "Let's go then!"<br><br>"Yes, let's!" says Mrs. Claus as she begins leading people outside to the sleigh.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:127|Laisa Samuiko (127)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I'm not sure that TV is a good source of relationship advice," says Mou to Firefly. Kureha and Veronica have both henshined in front of her, and Amy is talking bluntly about magic and... frankly so is everyone else here. Fair enough. This is a magical girl meeting. It is what it is.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mou Fubuki nods to the Princess of Sarek and says, "We might need that eventually, and having Mrs. Claus as a guide will help, too." She was hopeful about the map, but it'd probably be too much to ask. It's not like people normally keep a map of their own house on them at all times.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She stands up as Nanoha and Mrs. Clause start to head for the sleigh, and follows them out. "I guess I'm as ready as I'll ever be." When she takes a seat, she forms a tiny block of ice and starts shaping it. Chipping at it with picks made out of solid ice, rubbing it with her fingers. This ice sculpting hobby of hers is clearly a magical process.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:39|Hotaru Tomoe (39)}} has posed:'''<br>Firefly nodded to Nanoha. Yes, little kohai. Be her other kohai's friend. She can ship them. Friendship them, that is! Besides, Fate always looked so sad, maybe she could set her up on a playdate with this other girl.<br><br>However, she was soon distracted by... henshins. Gasping at all the cool magical girls and... and she was actually not going to remember who the others were. Definitely not! Nope! Because--<br><br>"Oh, right. Luminous Titan, make sure to not keep a record of any henshins and identities we see."<br><br><span style="color:#7D2374">&lt; But-- &gt;</span><br><br>"It's christmas. And this is a unique team up, so there's no cheating. Got it?"<br><br><span style="color:#7D2374">&lt; Affirmative &gt;</span><br><br>She then looked to Mou. "Of course TV is a good source of advice. It can't just be allowed to put anything on TV!" Yes. Yes they do.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:107|Amy Faust (107)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy nods to Mrs. Claus. She wraps up some cookies in napkins for later, but stops to watch Kureha transform. She walks over to pat her on the shoulder, "It's fine. I don't think anyone here is gonna have a problem with you being an oni. We got Mrs. Claus and a bunch of magical girls and flying reindeer here." And a lich, but she doesn't say that. It would probably be bad to let the only villain to have actually <span class="underline fg_n bg_n ++ u">killed anyone</span> know that.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After they step out, Amy jogs around a corner out of sight and Magical Rocket Girl Red speed-walks to the sleigh. Amy's not sure this will be enough to invoke identity protection but it's worth trying.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The bodysuit under her outfit really ''does'' provide more cold protection than it looks like, but relying on that alone for a long time is pushing it. She'll take a magic jacket, actually, it's probably comfier than summoning up really bulky winter clothes.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She hears Firefly order her Device. "Appreciated. And I would have thought TV wasn't real but my life is now something out of a manga, so..." the red magical girl shrugs.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking of manga, she tries to remember if a TSko has ever helped save Christmas before. She might just be the first, unless there was a Ranma anime episode about that! Representation win! Although, let's not count chickens before they're hatched, here. They still have to actually ''save'' Christmas.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;...What even happens if they fail?<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amy looks at Mrs. Claus. She's not sure she wants to ''know.''<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:30|Kureha Senkenzan (30)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As the group begins their sojourn, Onihime falls in step, walking with poise and grace. Largely, the Youkai Musume keeps her eyes straight ahead, only speaking aloud, "I meant more in the sense of my fire. I do not wish to cause undue discomfort to one who uses the power of ice."<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She does, however, turn to look at Firefly with a slightly-furrowed brow. This little girl is so painfully trusting that the oni girl doesn't even know where to start. So she opts to just... leave it be. Besides, she seems a big young for talk of politicians and corporations and the financial greasing of wheels. And besides besides, they're sav... ing...<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;'Oh gods,' Kureha realizes, with dawning alarm. 'We're saving Christmas. What has my life become?'<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:145|Veronica Perenna (145)}} has posed:'''<br>Another trial to handle... Well, of course it was going to be more complications on the way. That's not stopping her from trying once they get there, though. They have a fairly diverse cast of people to handle anything that comes their way, at least. Courtney of Amy, they even have missiles in case there are things trying to intercept them in midair... Or at least, the sleigh can fly, no?<br><br>Hmm, she should have probably asked that sooner. No big deal, it's something she can do while they reach it. "Mrs. Claus, if you would, is the sleigh capable of flight?" she asks.<br><br>She takes the opportunity to give the reindeers a few pettings before boarding the sleigh in whatever space there is. "I am all good here, ready when everyone is."<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:127|Laisa Samuiko (127)}} has posed:'''<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"You know... now that I think about it? I'm not sure I've ever had to actually deal with magic fire before," says Laisa. After a moment's trepidation, she adds, "Umm... I'm sure it's fine? We're on the same side anyways, right?" Geeze, now she's worried.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:47|Nanoha Takamachi (47)}} has posed:'''<br>The sleigh is odd. Anytime you think there isn't enough space for you, there's always one more seat in the back. It's also cozy warm inside, as Mrs. Claus puts on a pair of old-style pilots goggles on her forehead and looks to the others. "We'll need to convince the Miser Brothers to let us through their little tiff to the North Pole first. But that should just be a long conversation!" she says as she looks towards The Princess of Sarek. "Of course it is." she says. "Let's go!"<br><br>She then puts down her goggles, grabs the reins and 'kiyas!' and off the reindeer go. Off, and it doesn't take long before they're airborne and off towards the first trail!?<br><br>Nanoha sat in the back, with wide eyes. Yuuno, poor Yuuno, is shivering the whole time.<br><br>He is provided a tiny ferret jacket.<br> <br>

:'''{{#var:39|Hotaru Tomoe (39)}} has posed:'''<br>Firefly would happily get into the sleigh! She.... well, she didn't NEED a jacket. But she'd like one. It's a santa jacket... how... how could she not?<br><br>However, she was almost on the sleigh before she realized she forgot one VERY IMPORTANT THING!<br><br>She had to run back to pet the reindeer each at least once... okay, three times. "Eeee! Adding Reindeer to the list!" she said happily before running to the sleigh!<br> <br>
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