Book Six: Chapter 173

“I just want to be left alone,” Mike said. “I don’t see why I keep getting pulled into crud like this.”

“That’s what happens when you’re a player in the Great Game, especially when you’ve made as much progress as you have. A target has been painted on your back, and you must be ready to protect those you love lest you lose them. These are heavy truths I have burdened you with, but you needed to hear them.” Santa sat up in his chair, and the room brightened again. The others reappeared, their attention still on Santa. “So now that you understand why I have stacked events in our favor, I have one more confession to make. Holly?”

“Santa?” The elf moved forward enough that she accidentally passed through Santa’s large belly. Mike was a little disappointed that it didn’t at least get a token reaction from the big man.

“There’s a certain secret I must share with you, one that very few know.” He knelt down so the two were eye to eye. “You’ve been aware for the longest tim