"This morning," he answered, his hand rising almost instinctively to stroke the beard when she mentioned it. He could scarcely believe it was real himself, but he definitely felt the faint pressure in his chin when he smoothed the beard down. "Kulevi came in through the window. She seemed so excited about it, it was hard to say no."

She would have guilt tripped him into donning the job if she'd had to. Kulevi was very excited about the holiday season and stirring up interest in the Santa Village.

"Speaking of Esdham, I hear people dress up like this and fight as a holiday tradition. Is that true?" It was hard to believe if it was. But he was recently enrolled with the military and needed to be down there anyway. Maybe he'd participate, to see if he was still worth his salt as a warrior while wearing this ridiculous outfit.