Reindeer House 24.5
That night, the deer lined up in the sleigh hangar, the air buzzing with quiet excitement and jangling bells. One by one, they suited up — matching green jackets and pants that were form-fitting but flexible, designed for long hours of flight. Over the top went their shiny red leather harnesses, trimmed with small jingle bells and fitted to clip neatly into the sleigh.
“Wow, these boots are so much better than last year!!” Bikkusen purred, lifting one foot to admire the glossy red finish.
Rudorufu looked up eagerly. “Yes! The grip’s been improved, and—”
“No, no, darling,” Bikkusen waved a hand. “I mean the style. Aren’t they absolutely gorgeous?!!”
“…Yes,” Rudorufu admitted after a pause. “I suppose they are.”
Dashaa took charge of warm-ups, barking out stretches and drills while everyone followed along. Muscles loosened, cold limbs warmed, and quiet anticipation grew.
“Alright,” Rudorufu said, jogging lightly on the spot. “Is everyone ready for tonight?”
A few murmured maybes and I guess sos floated through the hangar.
“Um… R-Rufu?” Kometto stepped forward hesitantly, clutching one of the bells on his harness. “Could I talk to you for a moment?”
“Of course.” Rudorufu moved aside with him. “What’s wrong?”
“What if I can’t do it?!” Kometto blurted. “What if I’m too slow, or I mess up, or we’re late because of me, or—”
“Hey. Hey.” Rudorufu placed both hands on Kometto’s shoulders. “Slow down.”
Kometto froze, breathing hard.
“You will be fine. Fantastic, even,” Rudorufu said firmly. “You’ve done this perfectly every single year — and every single year, right before takeoff, you panic like it’s your first time.”
Kometto blinked.
“And remember,” Rudorufu continued, softer now, “we’re all flying together. If someone gets tired, someone else covers for them. No one’s alone up there.”
Kometto shifted his weight, then nodded, fists clenching with renewed determination. “Yeah… yeah!! You’re right!! Let’s do this!! Thanks, Rufu!!”
At that moment, the hangar doors creaked open.
“Well now,” came a warm, familiar voice. “Everyone excited?”
Santa Claus stepped inside, tightening his leather gloves as all nine deer snapped to attention.
“Sir!!”
Santa’s gaze swept over them, smiling as he spoke.
“Rudorufu — everything looks perfectly in order. Well done.”
“Dashaa, my goodness… you’re even stronger than last year.”
“Buritsen — I’m glad to see you in one piece. I hear you’ve been trying to stay safe.”
“Kyuupiddo, you’re proof that cute and strong can go hand in hand — just remember to tell someone if you’re tired.”
“Bikkusen, you look fabulous as always. I saw some of your designs recently — very impressive.”
“Donaa, thank you for looking after everyone. This place would fall apart without you.”
“Dansaa, your creativity never fails to inspire.”
“Kometto… I think the Yule Goat would be proud of you. And so am I.”
“And Puransa — you work too hard. But that dedication means more than you know.”
The hangar seemed to glow a little brighter.
“Alright, boys,” Santa said, grinning. “We’re ten minutes to takeoff. Let’s go.”
With renewed energy, the deer clipped their harnesses together, lining up in pairs — with Rudorufu proudly at the front. Bells chimed softly as antlers clacked together, boots shifted, and hearts raced.
It promised to be a long night.
But it promised to be a good one.
“Dash away,” Santa called. “Dash away, dash away ALL!!”
To be continued...