*There had been much bickering between Aurthur and Chef over the menu that would be served to the family in the days before the holiday, while the children helped to decorate the lair. But now that the holiday was so close, the bickering ceased, and the cooking was taking place at a fast clip.

The feasting chamber (for lack of a better name for it) was being set with places for every Shimmerscale family member and friend who would be in attendance. There was also a special area set for others who had no place to go for the Holidays.

The children would all be spoiled, of course, allowed to open one small gift of their choosing before the meal, and they would have plenty to choose from! One could barely see the tree they had set up in the chamber, with all of the presents under and around it.

At last, all the food was done, and everyone settled at the tables, for it was time to eat, and Aurthur stood to address the family.*

"A Merry Dracamas Eve to you, my dearest friends and family! I'm am thankful that you are all able to join us here on this happiest of holidays. Our family has been through much this year, and i've no doubts that it will go through much next year. But for the moment, let us feast, and make joyous memories together that we shall all remember for years to come."