This is something that's been brewing in my mind for a while, and I really wanted to have something special and Anicordia-related made in time for Christmas. As the title says, this is about Crystal Sapphurai experiencing her first true Christmas in Anicordia, with some help from her friends. Hope you enjoy, and a Merry Christmas to you all! =)

***

One Year After Ironscale’s Defeat

Winter had arrived in Anicordia. All around, the country was blanketed in a thick, crisp layer of snow, and in some places, more was still falling. Of course, the frigid community of Arctus had snow and ice all year round, while the arid desert lands, as well as the muggy swamplands of Reptys, were devoid of snow in that same timespan. Many animals, such as the bears, the bats, the turtles, and the snakes, were already settled in for a long winter’s nap. Birds had already flown south to warmer climates, until the coming of spring, leaving the loftily-built communities in Avisonia quite deserted.

Nevertheless, wherever animals lived, whether it snowed or not, one would be hard-pressed to find any heart not gladdened at this time.

With winter came Christmas.

Christmas! The one time in all the year where hearts and minds could truly come together, where fellow creatures one and all felt their unity and bond with each other more keenly than at any other time, and in the land where all animals were equal, that was truly saying something.

This Christmas in particular was one that was looked for with more anticipation than usual. Last year’s Christmas had sadly gone overlooked, due to the return of Lord Ironscale, and his subsequent defeat. The celebration of ridding the kingdom of the dread tyrant’s poisonous influence, the mourning of lives lost in the struggle, and the repealing of the Divide that had kept the kingdom’s citizens separated through suspicion and distrust, all had served to drive the holiday season completely from animals’ minds. It was even said that King Richard himself had woken up on New Year’s Day, had clapped a paw to his forehead, and exclaimed ‘I knew we’d forgotten something!’

True, there had been the annual Winter Ball in Lionden, but as there was a ball celebrating every season, it hadn’t been a Christmas affair per se. That was usually reserved for the grand Christmas party held in the castle every year. Even during the 10 years that the Divide lasted, this party had not ceased to be held, even though feelings of fellowship and togetherness had been quite diminished during that decade, and the guests at these parties had usually been limited to Lionden citizens. Even so, Christmas was far from forgotten, even in those days. The individual communities were simply satisfied to celebrate it amongst themselves, but now, with Ironscale gone, the true festive spirit of the season, the one that brought all animals together, could spread and flourish throughout the kingdom.

This year, animals everywhere were prepared to make up for lost time. The shops and stores were busier than ever, with animals crowding in to get gifts, decorations, and food for the holiday feasts. The royal postal service was just as busy, if not more so, with mountains of letters, cards, and parcels being sent out and delivered. Everyone seemed determined to ensure that the Christmas that had been missed would be more than made up for this year.

And yet, in spite of the hurry, the bustle, and the scramble to get everything prepared, many hearts were still cheerful and bright at the thought of Christmas drawing ever closer. It was the eternal bright spot on the horizon amidst the chaos of preparation, the final destination that made it all worth it. And when all was over and done with, everyone could settle down with friends and family for a cozy and quiet Christmas together, with hearts full of warmth and cheer.

There was just one Anicordian, however, who was not as enraptured by all of this holiday hullabaloo.

One week before Christmas, Crystal Sapphurai, 11 years old this year, was sitting comfortably with her best friend and guardian, Syren Aquas, watching a holiday special on television. It was called Pal, the story about a moose who had been raised by reindeer, and who believed he himself was one, until he learned the truth about his real family. The pudgy Amberite watched and giggled as the brightly-dressed moose, completely oblivious to how things worked outside the North Pole, got into all kinds of mischief. Syren, her arm clasped around her little friend, had seen this movie before, but nonetheless enjoyed it whenever it was on, and was laughing just as hard.

“Sugar cubes in spaghetti?” Crystal asked, incredulous. “What would that taste like?”

“No idea,” said Syren. “I’m sure some animal must’ve tried to replicate it, though I can’t imagine how good it’d taste, especially mixed in with the sauce and meatballs. Maybe I should whip some up one of these days,” she added, teasingly, prodding Crystal’s tummy. “You can be my taste tester.”

“Eww!” squealed Crystal. “No way!”

The two girls giggled together, then turned their attention back to the TV.

Though Crystal was thoroughly enjoying herself, and always did with Syren, there was a feeling she couldn’t quite shake. It happened whenever she heard the word ‘Christmas’, or saw something that reminded her of Christmas. She knew she ought to feel happy about it, as she could sense the joy and happiness it brought to everyone else. That was unavoidable when you had a pair of bellapinnas like she had. And yet, she still didn’t feel like she fully understood what it was about Christmas that made it so special, why it made everyone so happy.

Being an alien, and only having lived on the planet for roughly a year and a half, there was still much about living in Anicordia that she had to learn, and she knew that. It wasn’t as if she’d never asked about it, either. Her friends had always encouraged her to ask about anything she didn’t understand, and she distinctly remembered asking about Christmas. She knew what it was. She just didn’t get it.

She tore her eyes away from the TV, as Pal threw snowballs at a gang of bullies as quick as lightning, and looked around the living room. A fully decorated tree stood in one corner, and over the fireplace hung a pair of large stockings, each labeled with their names in curly writing. A fir wreath hung over the mantlepiece, framing a photo of the pair of them. On the table before them sat the remnants of the cookies and milk they had been snacking on while watching her movie.

What was it about these things that made animals think of Christmas?
She turned to Syren.

“Syren, can I ask you something?”

“Of course, honey,” said Syren, looking at her in turn.

“Well, I know I’ve already asked what Christmas is, and that you and Turbo said it’s a really special time of year, but...I still don’t really understand it.”

She half-expected Syren to laugh at how silly she must sound, or even sigh at having to explain again. However, the vixen simply raised an eyebrow.

“No?” she asked, kindly. “Well, I can’t exactly blame you. Your first Christmas would’ve been just after the Second War, when we were still recovering from what Ironscale did. It just kind of slipped all of our minds, and by the time any of us did remember, it was way too late. That’s why everything’s kinda crazy lately. We all want to make up for the Christmas we missed.”

“Uh-huh,” said Crystal, nodding. “So, do you think you could explain Christmas to me again? Really explain it?”

“Really explain it?” Syren repeated.

She rubbed the back of her head awkwardly.

“I don’t really consider myself a holiday expert, Cryssy. I mean, I can easily say how much I love the holidays, but it doesn’t really do them justice. I don’t know if I could…”

Crystal gripped Syren’s paw in her pudgy hand, gazing imploringly into her eyes.

“Please, Syren? I can feel how happy Christmas makes everyone, but I don’t know why it makes everyone happy, especially around this time. I won’t be able to stop thinking about it unless I understand. Please?”

Syren gazed back into Crystal’s deep-blue eyes. In those eyes, she could see the earnestness of her plea, the longing to understand. It went straight to her heart.

Her expression softening, she patted Crystal on the shoulder.

“Okay, Cryssy. I don’t know if I can do it alone, but I’m sure the others would be glad to lend some input as well. What do you say we visit the Vulpes after this movie, and we can ask them?”

Crystal’s face lit up at once, her eyes twinkling.

“Okay!”

She threw her arms around her skinny friend in a tight hug. Smiling tenderly, Syren hugged her in return. Then the two turned their attention back to the TV, just in time to see Pal try to put a star on top of a very tall Christmas tree, only to knock it over. The lighthouse was soon full of laughter again.

[cemter]***[/center]

Later, as the sun was going down, the two friends, bundled up in thick coats and boots, set out from the lighthouse, making their way into Fenwood proper. Even in such a small village, the streets were busy and bustling, some chatting amongst each other, some singing blithely in the frosty air. Every fox they passed greeted them cheerfully, and they weren’t slow in reciprocating. Each time this happened, Crystal’s bellapinnas tingled pleasantly, and felt as though they had been warming out in the sun, even though it was quite cold out.

As they approached the Vulpe residence, they could hear singing coming from inside. By the sound of it, the three Vulpes had a visitor already, and knowing them, it was not difficult to guess who. Smiling broadly, Syren knocked on the door.

“It’s open!” called the voice of Carmella Vulpe, in a cheery singsong.

Syren opened the door, and she and Crystal stepped in.

The inside of the house was already lavishly decorated. A fire was crackling merrily in the fireplace, above which hung Sir Arthur Vulpe’s old sword, Rencroc. Its polished scabbard was gleaming with the multicolored reflections of the ornaments hanging from the large tree standing in pride of place.

At the moment, Turbo Vulpe was hanging a few more ornaments on the tree, joined by his sister Audrey and his girlfriend Eclipse Moontail. His mother Carmella was sprinkling pawfuls of tinsel on the boughs. All four of them were dressed in snug holiday sweaters, paw-knitted by Carmella herself. Even Eclipse had one, since she was just as good as part of the family. They were singing together as they worked, each singing a verse in turn, though at the first, ninth, and last lines, they all sang in unison.

“On the 12th day of Christmas, my true love gave to me”
“12 lions roaring”
“11 roosters crowing
“10 hares a-leaping”
“9 wolves a-howling”
“8 cows a-grazing
“7 fish a-swimming
“6 horses neighing”
“5 golden eggs”
“4 mockingbirds”
“3 hedgehogs”
“2 butterflies”
“And an eagle in a pine tree”

That was the fun thing about the 12 Days of Christmas in Anicordia: one could substitute anything into the verses, whether it be animals, objects, or even food, as long as it fit with the meter of the song.

The four animals laughed, and Syren and Crystal giggled as well. Only now did Turbo notice their presence.

“Hey there, Syren, Crystal!” he called, arms opened wide in grand presentation. “Welcome to the Vulpe Tree Trimming Party!”

“We’ve kinda used up all the ornaments, though,” said Audrey, apologetically. “If we’d known you were stopping by, we would’ve saved you some.”

“But we haven’t put the star up yet,” said Eclipse, gesturing to the golden tree topper sitting in the decorations box. “Any volunteers?”

Crystal’s eyes lit up with excitement. A star as an ornament? Now that was something she could understand.

“Ooh! Ooh!” she squeaked, raising her hand eagerly and bouncing on the balls of her feet. “Can I? Please?”

“Certainly, Starshine!” said Turbo, grinning. “It seems only fitting. Mom, would you mind giving her a boost?”

“Not at all,” said Carmella, walking over to Crystal. “Up you get, dearie.”

With great ease, she hoisted the little Amberite onto her shoulders, and Eclipse handed her the star topper.

“Just plunk it right on the top, Crys,” she said, pointing. “A Christmas tree’s not complete without the star on top.”

From her sitting position on Carmella’s shoulders, Crystal lifted her arm, straining to reach the star up to it, but she couldn’t quite reach. She therefore stood up, and Carmella quickly gripped her ankles. Lucky thing, too, as Crystal swayed unsteadily on her perch. She could hear Syren gasp in alarm.

“Careful, dear,” said Carmella.

Crystal, still swaying slightly, looked at the pointed top of the tree, then at the star in her hand. This seemed like quite the trial to complete a Christmas tree, especially when it was so tall, but if that was how it had to be, then so be it. With her tongue poking out in concentration, she leaned back, then lunged forward, sticking the star into place.

Everyone cheered and applauded, and Crystal, beaming from her triumph, was set gently down on the ground by Carmella, who patted her on the head.

“Good job, Crystal,” she said.

“Not bad for your first time,” said Eclipse, approvingly.

“Thanks, everyone,” said Crystal, “but why does the star have to go on last? Wouldn’t it make more sense to put the star on the tree, and then put the tree up?”

“You’re definitely not the first to wonder that, Crys,” said Turbo, chuckling. “It would make it a lot easier to decorate, but somehow, it just doesn’t feel right unless the star is the last piece to it, the finishing touch, so to speak.”

“I guess that makes sense,” mused Crystal. “That’s one less thing to wonder about, anyway.”

“And that’s why we’re here,” said Syren, in a business-like tone. “Everyone, Crystal needs a Christmas crash course she can comprehend.”

“Boy, say that 10 times fast,” muttered Eclipse.

“Crystal wants to know about Christmas?” Turbo asked.

“She wants it really explained to her,” said Syren.

The three Vulpes and Eclipse looked at each other, eyebrows raised. Crystal shuffled her feet awkwardly.

“I know I already asked about Christmas before, when the season started,” she said, quietly. “I don’t want you all to think you did a bad job that time, but there’s still a lot I don’t understand. I can feel everyone’s happiness for Christmas through my bellapinnas, but I still don’t know why Christmas is so special. What is it about Christmas that makes every animal go crazy with buying gifts and decorations and all of that? Why the trees? Why the presents? What makes Christmas the one day of the year for that, more than any other? I really want to understand. Can you tell me? Please?”

The three foxes and one cat were stunned. They stared, open-mouthed, at Crystal, who, like she had done with Syren, was looking at them imploringly in turn, her hands clasped in front of her. While they knew she could be mature beyond her years, having endured an entire cross-country journey when she was only 10, none of them could remember ever hearing her speak with such fervor and earnestness. Syren, fit her part, was regarding her with nothing short of pride.

At last, Turbo spoke, after clearing his throat.

“That was wonderfully said, Crystal. The fact that you want to really understand what’s special about Christmas shows how much you want to share in the holiday spirit. Of course we’ll help you understand, as best as we can.”

Audrey, Carmella, and Eclipse all nodded, beaming. Crystal’s face glowed with happiness. Syren smiled broadly.

“We’ll have to take it one step of a time, of course,” said Turbo. “We might have to spread it out over the next few days, so we have time to prepare, but we could each tackle a different topic, try to keep them properly categorized for you, so it doesn’t get too confusing. How does that sound?”

“Sounds like a smart idea, hun,” said Eclipse, approvingly.

She compounded said approval with a peck on the cheek, which made Turbo’s muzzle glow red.

“Will that be ok, Cryssy?” Syren asked.

“Of course!” said Crystal. “Whichever way you all think is the best way must be the best.”

“Well, that’s settled, then,” said Carmella, brightly. “Since you’re here, girls, would you like to join us for some hot cocoa?”

This suggestion was met with unanimous approval. As Carmella bustled off to the kitchen, the rest settled themselves onto the sofa and armchairs placed near the fireplace and the tree. Crystal found herself nestled between Syren and Audrey on the sofa, quivering with anticipation, hopeful that her confusion and wonder would at least be put to rest over these next few days.

Soon enough, everyone had been provided with mugs of hot chocolate, and Carmella had placed a bowl of miniature marshmallows and a can of whipped cream on the coffee table for them to use as they saw fit. Crystal loaded her mug up with a bit of everything, and was simply letting it warm her hands, basking in the heavenly chocolate scent, while the others were busy choosing the proper proportions of their toppings, before settling comfortably in their seats, putting their feet up. Audrey had filled her mug up with so many marshmallows that her big brother jokingly asked if she wanted some cocoa with them. She responded by dabbing some whipped cream on her finger and booping him on the nose, earning a good laugh all around.

It was a very comfy, cozy feeling, sitting around the fire and the great tree, warming their feet, their hands, and their insides with a combination of wholesome heat sources. It was so cozy, in fact, that Crystal actually found herself dozing off once she’d had her fill of cocoa, and wound up nestling against Audrey’s stomach, as though it were a pillow, a contented smile on her face. The owner of said pillow-esque belly found it absolutely adorable, and let her sleep on for a good while, while the others watched with amused smiles. She was still snoozing when Syren decided they should take their leave, and she carried her drowsy little friend in her arms back to the lighthouse, her mind already buzzing with what to tell Crystal over the next few days.

***

The next day, around noon, Crystal received a pleasant surprise when Turbo and Eclipse showed up at her and Syren’s lighthouse. Both were carrying large bags slung over their shoulders, looking like very casual post animals. Once inside, they set the bags down in front of the living room sofa, where Crystal and Syren sat, the former’s eyes upon them with great interest.

“All right, Starshine,” said Turbo, “Christmas class is in session.”

“To fully understand Christmas, we have to start by scratching the surface,” said Eclipse, as she and Turbo knelt before the bags.

“By which she means the things that everyone associates with Christmas at a glance,” said Turbo.

Crystal nodded to show she was listening. Both reached into the bulging bags and began taking out the contents within and laying them on the floor, including a wreath, candy canes, bells, sprigs of mistletoe and holly, a miniature Christmas tree, a box of ornaments, a gift-wrapped box, a string of tinsel, and a large stocking. Crystal regarded it all with wide eyes full of curiosity.

“From all the TV you’ve been watching with Syren, you’ve probably seen a lot of these before, even if you might not know what they are,” said Turbo.

Crystal nodded again.

“Hey, you’re the one who first introduced her to TV, Turbo,” said Syren, amused.

“I wasn’t criticizing her for it,” said Turbo. “And besides, she discovered it herself. I simply explained it to her. Henry’s the one who encouraged it by having TV on the Omni.”

“Ahh, so it’s his fault,” said Syren, as if this were a grave revelation. “We’ll have to have a word with him about that.”

The friends laughed. Crystal was puzzled by this exchange at first, wondering if something really was wrong about her liking television, but seeing that everyone was being good-humored about it, she smiled.

“Anyways,” Turbo went on, “while we might not know the proper origins for all of these, we can at least help you get acquainted with them, if that’s all right.”

Crystal nodded again.

“Well, houses at Christmas are typically decorated with things like wreaths,” said Turbo, holding up the wreath they had brought, decorated with a bow. “They’re woven from tree branches, the same kind from Christmas trees, usually, into these ring shapes here. You can hang them over the fireplace, on the front door-”

“Or over the neck,” said Eclipse, cheekily.

So saying, she took the wreath from Turbo and slipped it, in one quick motion, over his head, where it settled around his shoulders, his fur ruffled, fir needles sprinkled on his clothes, and a bemused look on his face. Syren and Crystal both laughed, while Turbo shot his feline beloved an annoyed look. She, for her part, stuck her tongue out at him, and a cheeky grin played about his muzzle.

“One could, I suppose,” he said, picking up the garland, his eyes still on Eclipse. “There’s also the tinsel, which really brightens up the room. You can put it on a tree, hang it on the walls, or, like the wreath, over the neck.”

So saying, he deliberately plopped the garland on top of Eclipse’s head, where it draped down onto her shoulders from both sides, while the bulk of it sat atop her bangs like a gaudy crown. The laughter redoubled, and Eclipse returned the look Turbo had given her, only for him to stick his tongue out at her.

“If you two lovebirds keep up the comedy routine like this,” giggled Syren, “we’ll be here all day.”

“Don’t look at me,” said Turbo, gesturing to Eclipse. “She started it.”

With an unabashed grin, the curvy cat adjusted the tinsel so that it hung around her neck like a sparkling scarf, throwing one end over her shoulder with a flourish.

“Anyways,” she said, “you’ll find a lot of these hanging around animals’ houses at Christmas, to make the place look more festive: wreaths, tinsel, boughs of holly-”

“Ohh, so that’s the holly in that Deck the Halls song,” said Crystal.

“Exactly,” said Eclipse.

“And when they say ‘deck’,” said Turbo, “they mean ‘decorate’, not punch the walls with a fistful of holly.”

“I figured,” said Crystal, giggling. “If Jack did that, he’d probably bring the whole house down.”

Everyone laughed.

“Candy canes are a popular fixture, too,” said Turbo, handing one to her. “Try it.”

Crystal peeled off the wrapping, popped the end of it into her mouth, and sucked on it for a second or two. Her face lit up.

“Mmm!” she said. “Peppermint!”

“Knew you’d like that,” said Turbo. “Peppermint’s a popular Christmas flavor.”

“And then there’s this,” said Eclipse.

She held up the sprig of mistletoe.

“It’s a Christmas tradition for couples to kiss under the mistletoe, wherever it’s hanging,” she said.

“Why?” Crystal asked.

“I think it has to do with the spirit of togetherness during the holidays,” said Eclipse. “Being with those you love the most. Speaking of…”

She looped the mistletoe around her tail, held it over Turbo’s head, then leaned in and licked him on the cheek. Smiling broadly, Turbo turned to her and licked her cheek in return, making her purr. Crystal pressed her hands against her chubby cheeks, blushing with glee at this display of romance.

“We’d better keep some if Toby drops by this year,” Syren said, nudging Crystal.

Crystal’s blush deepened, though out of embarrassment this time.

“Syren!” she squeaked.

“Come on, Cryssy, I’m only teasing,” said Syren. “I doubt Toby’s into that kind of tradition anyway.”

Crystal didn’t respond, but her cheeks remained as pink as the tips of her bellapinnas. Casting about for a change of subject, her eyes fell upon the bells still sitting out.

“What about those bells?” she asked.

“Aha,” said Turbo, picking one up. “You’ll hear a lot of bells ringing at Christmas time. Carolers and animals who support charity foundations use ones like this, and there’s smaller bells that go on a sleigh, which ring as you ride along. And, of course, there’s the big church bells that ring on Christmas Day. There’s just something about the ringing of bells that makes everything feel a little more festive.”

So saying, he rang the bell in his paw, and Eclipse did likewise with the other bell. Their notes rang loud, clear, and crisp. There was indeed something about them, something that made Crystal feel pleasantly tingly, though she couldn’t explain why.

“As for these stockings,” said Turbo, putting his bell down and holding the stocking up, “it’s tradition to hang them up over the fireplace. You might just wake up to find some goodies inside it.”

“If you’ve been good, that is,” said Eclipse. “Naughty animals get lumps of coal.”

“Really?” Crystal asked, puzzled. “Well, it doesn’t seem safe to hang big socks over a fire, but if you get coal, at least you can use it for the fireplace.”

“Now that’s thinking positively,” said Turbo.

“Of course, we can’t forget this,” said Eclipse, putting her own bell down and holding up the little Christmas tree. “Most houses keep a tree in their houses at Christmas. This is one of the main symbols of the season: a fir tree trimmed with ornaments, lights, tinsel, and, of course, the star on top.”

“They can be all kinds of sizes,” said Turbo, “depending on how much room you have for one. They can be as small as this, or they can reach up to the ceiling. Lots of cities have giant Christmas trees that are decorated out in the open. It’s a grand sight to see.”

“Lionden always has the biggest one of all, right in the town square,” said Eclipse. “You can see it shining all the way from the edge of the forest.”

“Of course, the lights have to be working to get the full effect,” said Turbo, holding up a tangled bundle of Christmas lights, “and getting them unraveled, hung around the tree, and then plugged in can be a hassle, especially if they’re not all working once you turn them on.”

“One bad bulb spoils the bunch,” said Eclipse, grimly.

“And what about the ornaments?” Crystal asked.

“Well, many use the classic colored bulbs ornaments, like these in this box,” said Turbo, opening it for her to see. “There’s also custom-made ones that can be based on anything: sports, food, movies, TV shows, et cetera. Lots of families keep certain favorite ornaments to use on the tree each year.”

“Do you have some, Syren?” Crystal asked.

“A couple,” said Syren. “They’re mostly ones I made myself from seashells, but I put them up every Christmas without fail.”

“Ooh,” said Crystal. “So, then, why all the presents? It sounds like Christmas is a birthday party.”

“Well, it’s not exactly one,” said Turbo, “though there are plenty who might consider it one. There’s an old story about the first gift givers in Anicordia, and people give presents in honor of what they did.”

“And why do presents go under the tree?”

“Well, as the tree is one of the prime symbols of Christmas, it only makes sense to put our gifts for each other under the tree,” said Turbo. “The stockings are too small for the bigger ones, after all.”

“The Christmas tree is like a mother hen, protecting the family’s presents and sheltering them for Christmas Day,” said Eclipse. “That’s how my dad once put it, at any rate.”

“That’s not a bad comparison, actually,” said Turbo. “Trees have always been a symbol of provision and protection in Anicordia. They’ve offered shelter for plenty of animals without houses since the oldest times. That’s why the main emblem on the Anicordian flag is a tree.”

Eclipse nodded. Crystal looked impressed.

“So having a Christmas tree in your house is like a good luck charm?” she asked.

“Well, now, that’s a good way to look at it,” said Turbo, approvingly.

“You’re catching on pretty quick, Cryssy,” said Eclipse, putting her paws on her hips.

Crystal beamed, pleased with herself, and Syren gave her a little squeeze.

“Of course,” said Turbo, his smile fading a little, “not everyone is happy around the holidays.”

“Sad, but true,” said Eclipse.

“Why not?”

“Well, a good number of reasons,” said Eclipse. “Some think it’s just a frivolous waste of time. Some think it’s a waste of money. Some think it’s a waste of time and money, like Ebeneezer Scrooge did.”

“Who?”

“We’ll watch that one soon,” said Syren.

“Others want to enjoy it, but the stress of everything leading up to Christmas catches up to them,” said Turbo. “Getting the right presents, the decorating, the cooking, packages being late, having to deal with family-”

“Why would anyone not want to see their family for such a special time?”

“You’d be surprised how much the holidays can bring out the, er, crazy in some animals, even in your own family,” said Eclipse. “In-laws, especially,” she added, grimly.

“Some get tired of the carols, the songs, the holiday specials,” said Turbo. “Some think the songs get old after a while, and that the specials are cheesy and played out.”

“I like them,” said Crystal, earnestly. “Even if I don’t get what they all mean, I still enjoy watching and listening to them.”

“Now that’s the spirit,” said Turbo, smiling.

“Some don’t like the season because it’s in the winter, and they don’t like the cold,” said Eclipse. “Of course, in Anicordia, animals that hibernate or migrate that do celebrate Christmas do so the night before they turn in or fly off.”

“So Jack and Henry already celebrated Christmas?” Crystal asked.

“Yep,” said Eclipse. “They call it Winter’s Eve, but they still practice the same traditions. Speaking of,” she added, “I’m sure Henry would have a lot to say about Christmas.”

“No doubt,” said Turbo. “I’ll have to give him a call and see when he’s available. I have no idea what he’ll be up to this year, but he said he was going to Australia with the rest of his family.”

“And then, of course, there’s some who like Christmas for the wrong reasons,” said Eclipse. “They like to focus on getting presents more than anything else, and it can make animals pretty selfish and demanding.”

“Not that there’s anything wrong with getting gifts, of course,” said Turbo, reasonably, “but it shouldn’t be all that animals focus on at Christmas.”

“Exactly,” said Eclipse. “It should be about the friends and family that you’re with, and being able to give to them, rather than get from them.”

She pulled the wreath off of Turbo’s head, set it down, then nuzzled up to him warmly, purring once again. Smiling, Turbo drew an arm around her. Crystal gave a delighted squeal, her cheeks reddening with romantic joy once again. Syren simply smiled.

“And that,” said Turbo, clapping his paws together, as he and Eclipse eased apart again, “concludes our basic overview of the common symbols of Christmas and what they mean for animals. Did you understand all of that, Starshine?”

“I think so,” said Crystal, slowly, looking down at the miscellany before her. “All of these things here each mean something special to do with the Christmas season, and a house decorated for Christmas wouldn’t be the same without any of them, even if it shouldn’t be the only thing to do with Christmas.”

“You’ve got it!” said Eclipse.

“Atta girl!” said Turbo.

“Good job, Crystal!” said Syren, hugging her little friend.

“Just remember, if you have any more questions,” said Eclipse, starting to gather the decorations up, “don’t hesitate to ask. We can only teach so much, after all.”

“I won’t,” said Crystal, before appending, “hesitate, I mean.”

“Good,” said Turbo. “Drop by my house tomorrow, and Mom and Audrey will take you through Part 2 of our Christmas lesson. We’d love to stay, but Eclipse and I are going ice skating on the pond this afternoon. Would you like to join us?”

“Oh, yes!” said Crystal, eagerly. “I’ve never skated before, but it sounds fun! Can we, Syren?”

“Of course,” said Syren. “It’s not the same as learning to swim, but once you get the hang of it, it’s pretty easy.”

“It doesn’t matter if it’s liquid or solid,” said Turbo, wryly. “If it’s anything to do with water, Syren will master it, so help her God.”

“Oh, shush,” said Syren, cuffing Turbo on the arm. “Not that I wouldn’t mind that to be true, but still.”

They all laughed, and Crystal and Syren went to go get dressed for going out, while Turbo and Eclipse packed up the rest of the decorations.

“You should keep that wreath to wear,” Eclipse said. “You look very festive with it on.”

“Only if you do the same with the tinsel,” Turbo quipped. “You look very festive with it on.”

“For the Christmas party?” Eclipse asked.

There was a pause.

“I don’t see why not,” said Turbo. “Everyone’s gonna be dolled up in their holiday best, so why shouldn’t we do the same, and a bit more? It’d make for a good laugh, anyway.”

“And some good photos,” said Eclipse, giggling.

“Can you imagine the look on Fhey’s face when we show up wearing a wreath and tinsel?” asked Turbo, chuckling.

“She’ll either think it’s just as funny, or that we’ve lost our minds,” said Eclipse.

By then, Syren and Crystal rejoined them, and the four friends left the lighthouse, chatting amicably all the way.

***

The next day, just as Turbo had suggested, Syren brought Crystal back to the Vulpe household. Everything seemed the same from the outside, but as soon as they stepped inside, a delicious smell greeted their olfactory senses. It was the smell of baking gingerbread, and for a moment or two, the two friends stood on the doorstep, drinking in the appetizing aroma. Crystal actually leaned up on her tiptoes as her belly rumbled. Coincidentally, they had not had lunch yet.

“Come in, come in!” called Carmella from the kitchen. “Don’t just stand there in the cold, you two!”

Obeying the genial (and sensible) summons, Syren shut the door behind them, and the two made their way to the kitchen. There, they were greeted by the sight of Carmella’s large backside as she bent down in front of the oven, her tail swishing merrily, before straightening up with a tray of gingerbread cookies held in her oven-mitted paws. She was wearing a holiday-themed apron, stretched rather snugly over her large belly, and both it and her fur were sprinkled with flour. Audrey was at the kitchen counter, where another tray of cookies sat, and upon which she was applying decorations with a piping bag of white icing.

“Welcome, girls, welcome!” said Carmella, setting the hot tray down. “Please, have a seat.”

Syren and Crystal set themselves down on two of the kitchen chairs, watching the two portly vixens expectantly. Audrey added the finishing touch to the last cookie in front of her with a flourish, then set the bag down, dusted her paws off, and stood beside her mother.

“Turbo says you’ve gotten a good understanding of the different Christmas decorations, and what they do for animals on Christmas,” said Audrey.

Crystal nodded.

“Well,” said Carmella, “we’re now going to show you one of our favorite parts of the holiday, Crystal: the cooking!”

“Not just the cooking, but the treats, as well,” said Audrey.

Crystal leaned forward in her chair, all eyes on the pair of vixens. Syren giggled.

“To start with,” said Carmella, “you know how we had a big feast day earlier this year?”

“Uh-huh,” said Crystal. “The Feast of Amity. Henry told me it’s to celebrate the first time all animals in Anicordia sat together to share the bounty of the harvest. He also said who started it, but I can’t remember their names.”

“King Amicus and Ambrose Sweetsnout, Cryssy,” said Syren. “King Amicus was one of the earliest recorded kings in Anicordian history, and Ambrose Sweetsnout was his royal chef.”

“Ohh, right.”

“That’s right, Syren,” said Carmella. “King Amicus really wanted to bring the citizens of Anicordia together, so he had Chef Sweetsnout whip up the biggest, most scrumptious feast that had ever been tasted. Legends say that the smell alone was enough to bring in Anicordians from all corners of the kingdom.”

“Wow,” breathed Crystal. “And did they do the same for Christmas?”

“They did indeed,” said Carmella. “A special day warrants special food, and Ambrose Sweetsnout worked his magic once again for the first recorded Christmas feast in Anicordia. Since then, families over the kingdom whip up the biggest, heartiest, and tastiest meals they can for Christmas, even though the secrets to Chef Sweetsnout’s cooking are known only by the royal cooks of today.”

“The holiday feasts on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day,” said Audrey, “are a time for animals to eat, drink, and be merry, and forget they’re on diets, if they are on one.”

“Very true, sweetie,” said Carmella, chuckling and patting her enormous belly. “Like the Feast of Amity, you need a hearty appetite and a willingness to add a few inches to the old waistline to indulge in a good Christmas feast.”

“Well, I like food,” said Crystal, eagerly. “Especially good food, like yours, Miss Carmella!”

Carmella laughed richly, then pinched Crystal’s cheek in a motherly way.

“Bless you, you sweet child,” she said, fondly.

“So, what kind of foods do they serve at Christmas feasts?” Crystal asked. “Turbo and Eclipse already told me about candy canes.”

“Oh, candy canes are a fine holiday treat,” said Carmella.

“But those are more of an after-dinner thing,” said Audrey. “To fill up the corners after eating.”

“That’s right,” said Carmella. “There’s all sorts of foods that are traditionally eaten on Christmas, and it all depends on your personal preference, and whether you’re an herbivore, carnivore, or omnivore. For the meat eaters, the main course is cooked game meat: wild goose, wild turkey, wild ham. For herbivores, or omnivores who’d rather not eat meat, the main course is usually a savory veggie pot pie.”

“We have some here for you to sample,” said Audrey.

“You do?” Crystal asked.

“Of course,” said Carmella. “What’s the point of teaching about the foods if you don’t get to taste the foods?”

“And what did you think those were there for, to look pretty?” asked Audrey, amusedly, gesturing to the table.

Crystal turned around in her seat and gaped. The table she was sitting at was laden with a large number of covered plates, and she only now noticed. She supposed she had just been so focused on Camella and Audrey’s lesson that she hadn’t spotted them. Judging by Syren’s lack of reaction, she’d already known about it.

“I was doing some voluntary catering work with Miss Cherry Stemm the other day,” said Carmella. “We were providing for an end-of-term holiday party at the school, and there was quite a bit leftover, so I thought it would be perfect for our discussion. Audrey?”

“You got it, Mom.”

Audrey lifted the cover off of one dish. On it sat a slice of veggie pot pie, with a beautifully browned crust, filled with carrots, potatoes, corn, and peas, swimming in gravy. Crystal regarded it with great interest.

“Well, go ahead, honey,” said Carmella. “Syren, you can have some too, if you’d like.”

“Thanks, Carmella,” said Syren. “I think I’ll just have a nibble.”

Crystal eagerly picked up a nearby fork and scooped off a sizable chunk of pie. Syren took a more modest piece. Crystal popped it into her mouth, chewed it for a moment, then swallowed with a broad grin on her face.

“Mmm!”

“Well, look at that,” said Carmella, sounding both delighted and amused. “If I had a dollar for every child that was actually excited to eat their vegetables…”

Audrey giggled, and between Crystal and Syren, the slice was polished off.

“And that’s just the beginning,” said Carmella.

From there, Audrey lifted the covers off each dish one by one, each containing a sample of holiday wares set aside for the little Amberite’s enjoyment and enrichment. It was quite a feast for a growing girl with a large appetite. There was stuffing, cranberry sauce, buttered rolls, mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, sweet potatoes with marshmallows, corn, chestnuts, even Carmella’s recipe for homemade macaroni and cheese with breadcrumb topping.

When the last dish had been sampled to Crystal’s heart’s content, she sat back in her chair, patting her contented belly, which was feeling quite a bit tighter and heavier than before she came in. The three foxes regarded her with faces full of tender amusement, happy to see her enjoying herself so well.

“So?” Audrey asked. “Pretty good, right?”

“Delicious,” said Crystal, huskily.

“Well, I hope you’ve saved room for a little dessert as well,” said Carmella, “because there’s plenty more to come.”

Crystal’s eyes lit up, but her stomach rumbled, and she covered her mouth as she let out a suppressed belch.

“Scuse me,” she said. “Could we wait a bit before doing that?”

“Of course, honey,” said Carmella. “We wouldn’t want to make you feel sick.”

“And if you think this has been impressive,” said Audrey, “you should see what they serve at the king’s Christmas party.”

“Christmas party?” Crystal echoed.

“Oh, yes,” said Carmella. “Every year, King Richard hosts a big party in his castle on Christmas Eve. It starts in the evening, and ends at midnight, Christmas Day.”

“Isn’t that the Winter Ball?” Crystal asked.

“Oh, no, no,” said Carmella. “The Winter Ball is a separate affair. The king holds a special ball to celebrate each of the four seasons. The Christmas party is the big event every Anicordian looks forward to. Even during the Divide, and when not as many animals might come, King Richard never failed to host it. The holidays mean that much to His Majesty.”

“There’ll be food and games and singing,” said Audrey. “So many things happening all in one night.”

“And Fhey’s going to work some magic of her own, no doubt,” said Syren.

“Fhey gets to help out too?” Crystal asked.

“Of course,” said Carmella. “The royal mage always uses their magic to add some extra festive cheer to the party. Why, I remember one year, when Arthur was still with us, Arcturus Augur used his magic to conjure up a musical band of living snow animals to play Christmas songs. Called themselves the Frosty Bunch.”

“Wow!” said Crystal, amazed. “I can’t wait to see what Fhey does this year. I didn’t think she liked parties very much.”

“Oh, she doesn’t mind parties,” said Syren. “Eclipse says she just doesn’t like being the center of attention.”

“Oh, I see.”

She covered her mouth suddenly, suppressing another belch.

“Scuse me,” she said again. “I think I’m ready to see these desserts now.”

“Atta girl,” said Carmella. “Well, it should be no surprise that, next to Halloween, Christmas is the most prominent time of year for sweet treats: candies, pastries, cookies…”

Crystal licked her lips at the very thought.

“Gingerbread is a popular Christmas treat,” Audrey said, picking up one of the gingerbread cookies she had been icing and handing it to her. “Try it.”

Crystal regarded it with keen interest, opened her mouth to take a bite, paused, then, with a smart snap, broke the cookie in two and handed a piece to Syren.

“Aww, thanks, Cryssy,” said Syren, gratefully.

Crystal took a bite of hers, let out a delighted ‘Mmmm!’, and gulped down the rest in one bite.

“It’s not just for cookies, either,” said Carmella. “You can make edible houses out of gingerbread as well, and you can decorate them with icing and gumdrops and all sorts of things.”

“Really?” Crystal gasped. “Wouldn’t that take a really long time, though? I mean, our lighthouse is pretty big already-”

But everyone else laughed.

“Goodness me, Cryssy,” chortled Carmella. “I meant miniature houses, not life-sized ones.”

“Ohhh, that makes much more sense,” said Crystal.

“Although,” said Audrey, “a life-sized gingerbread house sounds like a tasty idea.”

“That it does, sweetie, that it does,” said Carmella. “But let’s not get too far off topic. Let’s show Crystal some traditional Christmas desserts.”

“Aye-aye, Mom Capitain,” said Audrey, with a playful salute.

She removed the plates containing the savory pieces Crystal and Syren had sampled, and replaced them with new ones, also covered. Just like before, she uncovered them one by one to have Crystal try, though she always made sure to leave some for Syren.

Besides the gingerbread, there were shortbread cookies, custard, chocolate fudge, pumpkin pie, chocolate Yule log slices, peppermint bark, Christmas cake, mince pie, and fruitcake. The others were surprised that Crystal expressed enjoyment of the last mentioned, since, according to Carmella, ‘you’ll be hard-pressed to find an animal who admits they like fruitcake’. Finally, they had her wash it all down with glasses of eggnog and apple cider.

By the time Crystal had finished, she was feeling very full and very sleepy. She sat back with her hands on her belly, which had become even rounder than from the first feast. Syren, who looked as slender as ever despite joining in, smiled.

“Nice and full, Cryssy?” she asked, patting her friend’s stomach.

“Mm-hmm,” said Crystal, drowsily. “It was all really tasty...Thank you, Miss Carmella, Audrey.”

“Really, thanks,” said Syren, sincerely. “It means a lot that you’d go to the trouble.”

“You’re very welcome, sweetheart,” said Carmella, kindly, “and it’s no trouble at all.”

“We’re just happy to share the season with a good friend,” said Audrey, beaming.

“Well, I’d better get this one home,” said Syren. “I think she’s about ready for a good long nap after filling her belly up.”

Standing up, she took the sleepy Amberite under the arms and, with a heave and a grunt, tried to lift her, but she only succeeded in lifting her partly off the chair before having to set her down again. Crystal took no notice, letting her head droop listlessly.

“Jeez, she got heavy,” muttered Syren. “I don’t know if I can carry her back, and she’s in no state to walk.”

“I can carry her, dear,” Carmella offered. “I was thinking of going out for a walk anyways. Audrey, want to come along?”

“No thanks, Mom. I’ll get started clearing up all these dishes.”

“All right, dear.”

With a grunt, but also with great ease, Carmella lifted the full and sleepy Crystal in her arms, cradling her in her thick arms. With a yawn, she snuggled herself against Carmella’s fur.

“Bless her,” said Carmella, fondly, kissing her forehead.

Audrey smiled and gave Crystal a pat on the head before bidding Syren goodbye, then turning to the sink. Carmella and Syren walked out together, with Crystal dozing peacefully.

“She’s getting so big,” said Syren, soberly. “Not just from all that feasting, either. I can’t carry her so easily anymore. Feels like only yesterday I was carrying her piggyback when she was too tired, and now here she is, 11 years old, and learning about her first Christmas. Where does the time go, Carmella?”

“That’s what all mothers wish they knew, Syren,” said Carmella, just as soberly. “All we can do is cherish the time we have with them now.”

Syren nodded. She looked at Crystal, sleeping in Carmella’s arms. Bending forward, she licked her cheek, and a small smile appeared on the Amberite’s face. It brought a tear to Syren’s eye.

From there, she and Carmella got into more talk about the Christmas party in Lionden, and how much fun Crystal was sure to have, while she herself slept on, unconscious of the entire conversation.