Continuing down the hallway we eventually reached the main hall. Here various work stations existed throughout the room. Conveyor belts bring toys into the room for elves to inspect before depositing all toys into the sack.
In the center of the hall is a circular work station with a giant globe revolving in the center. Numerous elves work the center consoles, checking readings and answering radio calls.
"Welcome to the heart of the workshop! All finished toys come to this room for inspection before being deposited into the sack. It is also where all communication from across the village goes."
"As you know tonight is the big night so we are putting on the finishing touches. While that finishes up, let us go over the modifications we made to your suit and sleigh."
"What do you mean the suit?"
"Well... the coat itself is magical so it remains the same, but changes were made to your overall, pants, and hat."
"As for the sleigh changes are made to it every year to ensure a smooth and safe flight."
"Well that is good news, but I have a question. What happens if I fall off the roof?"
"This way"
Avoiding my question, Bernard points me toward a certain station. I'll ask again later.
At the station I see a pair of red overalls and a Santa hat.
"This is Frost, he can explain to you about the changes made"
"Hello, Frost."
"Santa, we have some exciting changes for you this year. First, your coveralls."
-2 hours later-
After getting the run down on my new suit and putting it on, I finally made it to the sleigh. Currently several elves were lifting the bag into the sleigh, while others were attaching the reindeer to the sleigh. Directing all the elves was Bernard, who turned around when I arrived.
"Good to see you Santa, the preparations are almost done. I see you are wearing the suit"
"Yes, where is my family?"
"On their way."
"Thank you Bernard."
"No problem Santa."
"Dad!" "Scott!"
Turning around I see Charlie, Laura, and Neal arriving. All wearing new winter gear.
"Scott this place... it is unbelievable. Even after the tour and interacting with the elves I still can't believe this place is real."
"I know Laura, believe me if I had come alone the first time... I would have probably thought that this whole experience was a weird dream. But now you know the truth and what an incredible truth it is."
"Dad! Will I be able to go with you?"
"Sorry Charlie not this time"
"...Why?"
"This will by my first official run as Santa. It is something I need to do on my own. But don't worry, when I get back I will take you for a ride in the sleigh. And next year you can join me"
"Really?
"Really" Charlie then hugs me while Neal comes up and pats me on the back.
"Good luck... Santa"
I look at Neal, I can still see confusion and apprehension in his eyes, but I can also see joy. "Thank you"
As I say goodbye to my family, Bernard shouts that the sleigh is ready. Climbing into the sleigh I hear a ding inside my head.
[Ultimate Santa System has restarted and updated!!!
Welcome Santa! This system was established to aid you in becoming the ultimate Santa Claus.
Completion of the previous emergency mission allows access to the basic abilities.
[New Mission: What it means to be Santa
This will be your first official flight as Santa Claus, deliver all the presents and show the world that Santa is back in action.
Its time for Christmas cheer]
After reading the mission prompt I pull the the whip from its holder and take a deep breath trying to remember the perfect line.
Addressing the reindeer. "Okay boys lets have ourselves a good flight!"
CRACK
"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
CRACK WHOOSH
The sleigh shoots down the path and takes off into the air. Thus my first Christmas as Santa begins.