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>>44267166
[2/3]

“Hey, Christine!” Rana smiles happily as she carries a couple of bags. Walking next to her is Anneliese, who is busy taking in all the sights and sounds of a New York coming into hibernation. Baseball season is over, people are becoming insular, the only people out in the streets are kids who like to play in the snow and the unfortunate adults who have to work during the holidays. “Guess what I got you~!” she says as she waves a bag about in your face.

“It’s not a gun, is it?” you ask.

She stares at you, her smile fixed in place as she lowers the bag. “… maybe.” You grunt, going back to shoveling the snow. “But Anneliese got you something from the Woolsworth!”

“Ja, ja,” she says. Her English was getting better, much better. “It is a surprise though for Christmas morning!” She smiles happily, keeping her bag shut. Doesn’t seem too big. It’d certainly make you feel guilty though if Anneliese spent her money or something extravagant for you. One thing Dad always taught you is that vanity attracts only fairweather friends.

“Great, great,” you say.

“So did you get us anything?” You smile, nodding. Rana squeals a little, patting Anneliese’s arm. “You hear that, Christine got us something, Annie! Aaahhh!” She continues drumming her hands on Anneliese’s arm, making her slightly uncomfortable. “Okay, okay, don’t tell us, let me guess! Is it a car?”

“Yeah. I disassembled a Phantom Corsair and fit it right underneath our Christmas tree for you, Rana,” you say. Her eyes shine brightly. “I… that’s a joke, Rana.”

“Oh.” She frowns a little, disappointed.

“Tell you what, Christmas morning, you’ll love what I got you,” you say. She smiles again, happy. “Same with you, Anneliese. As an American welcome, I think you’ll really like what you’re going to get.” Anneliese smiles cautiously, looking at Rana. Rana nods happily, then looks back at you. “By the way, have you two seen Sumire anywhere?”

>>44267178
[3/3]

“Nope.” Rana whistles out in an alleyway. “Kirby!” Kirby appears on Rana’s shoulder. “Have you seen, Sumire?”

“I have,” he says. “She’s currently walking around New York. She apparently hasn’t done any Christmas shopping at all.”

“Aw, now, Kirby, no one likes a tattle-tale,” says Rana.

“Wait, what?” You tap Kirby, and he looks over at you. “What do you mean, hasn’t done any Christmas shopping at all? It’s Christmas Eve! It’s…” You check your watch.

4:30 PM!? Most stores are going to close soon! How did Sumire procrastinate this badly!? Not even your mom procrastinated this badly on getting you gifts for your birthday and Christmas and she didn’t even show up for any of them!

> “Guys, head inside. I’ll go find her.”
> “We might as well let her make her mistakes. I’ll make you guys some hot chocolate.”
> Other

>>44267196
>> “Guys, head inside. I’ll go find her.”

>>44267196
>“Guys, head inside. I’ll go find her.”

>>44267196
> “Guys, head inside. I’ll go find her.”
This won't do, this won't do at all!

>>44267196
> “Guys, head inside. I’ll go find her.”

>>44267196
>“We might as well let her make her mistakes. I’ll make you guys some hot chocolate.”

>>44267196
>“Guys, head inside. I’ll go find her.”
Leave it to the money-obsessed merc to be a scrublord at Christmas.

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> “Guys, head inside. I’ll go find her.”

You sigh, shoving the end of your shovel into a pile of snow. You grab some mittens out of your pocket and put them on to help warm your hands. “Kirby, come with me. Anneliese, Rana, go ahead inside. I’ll go find her, we’ll see what’s what, okay?”

Rana nods, then takes Anneliese’s hand. “Come on, Annie! I’ll show you how to make some hot chocolate!” She reaches into one of the bags and pulls out some huge chocolate bars. “We had to pay some good money for these! So don’t worry, we’ll keep a pair of cups waiting for you guys!” They head up the porch and inside the apartment.

You sigh again, and look at Kirby. “What could Sumire be doing right now?”

-

-

“Hrm…” Sumire presses her face against the window of a toy store, staring at the large display of toys sitting in a winter wonderland of Christmas décor. Around things like BB guns or teddy bears wrapped up in red ribbons or toy airplanes and cars, there runs a model train making its round, complete with coal car, passenger cars, and even a caboose. Around Sumire are other kids doing the same, pressing their faces against the cold glass as if it will get them the toys inside. “Wow.”

“Hey!” The storeowner points his broom at Sumire. The kids immediately all scatter, yelling and laughing. “Get your buck toothed yellow face off my storefront!”

“Hey, screw you old man!” yells Sumire as she turns around and storms off. “Hmph! Racist, I don’t have buck teeth…” She finds you standing next to a lamp post, staring disapprovingly at her. Kirby sits on your shoulder, doing the same. “Oh, Libby! What’s the hubbub? Rana and Anneliese already home?”

You tilt your head towards Kirby. “A little cat here told me you didn’t buy your presents. It’s almost closing time for most stores here, you know that?”

[1/2]

>>44267682
[2/2]

Sumire scoffs. “Please. What’s a few material gifts compare to my love for you all?” she says. You roll your eyes. Typical, she doesn’t even know what to get you. She sees that this isn’t working, so she mostly gives up on that defense. “Okay, yeah, fine, I might’ve put off buying gifts a little. But it’s okay! I mean, you, me, and the girls are going caroling tonight! Then we get some Christmas ham in us, then Santa delivers the presents! Then in the morning we unwrap our gifts, head to church, boom. We set up for New Years!”

“Sumire, I-“ Wait. What did she say? “What did you just say?”

“We set up for New Years,” she says. She scoots closer to you, nudging you with her elbow. “You know, you and me sharing a bottle of wine together, we put the kids to sleep…”

“No, God no. The thing before that,” you say. She opens her mouth. “And before that too.”

“Santa Claus?” she asks. “Yeah, he’ll make up for me. Why?”

You blink. “You think Santa Claus is just going to make up for the gifts you didn’t buy.” She nods, apparently… believing that? “Um. Sumire, listen. Sant- No, look. I-“ Sumire tilts her head. D-… does she actually believe Santa Claus exists? “… Sumire, who always gave you gifts for Christmas, back in Japan?”

“Well, my parents if they could afford it. But I always got something from Santa,” she says. “Me and my family were big Christians you know.” She smiles happily. “I was always a good girl.” You stare at her. “Okay, I know that’s hard to believe and yeah, past few years I have been getting coal but I’m telling you, I can be a good girl!”

“Give me a second.” You and Kirby step away, far away, out of Sumire’s earsight. “Kirby. Santa.”

“Never heard of him,” he says. Okay, fine. The magical Messengers have never heard of Santa Claus. Okay, you’re not going nuts. You and Kirby quickly walk back to Sumire.

“What was that about?” she asks.

> “Sumire. You realize Santa doesn’t exist, right?”
> “Forget it. We’re going to buy gifts.”
> Other

>>44267704
>“Forget it. We’re going to buy gifts.”

>>44267704
>“Forget it. We’re going to buy gifts.”
she doesn't know
SHE DOESN'T KNOW

>>44267704
>> “Forget it. We’re going to buy gifts.”

>>44267704
> “Forget it. We’re going to buy gifts.

>>44267704
>“Forget it. We’re going to buy gifts.”

>>44267797
How will we let her know?

>>44267704
>“Sumire. You realize Santa doesn’t exist, right?”
BULLY.

>>44268098
No bully. That's against the spirit of Christmas anon!

>>44268098
ThTs not nice.

> “Forget it. We’re going to buy gifts.”

You shake your head. “Forget about it. Listen, we’re going to buy some gifts and we’re going to make them from me to Anneliese and Rana. You got that?” She sighs. “Do we have to?” Your stern glare of motherly disapproval says so. “Fine. Where do we go first then?”

You check your watch, sighing. “Most of the mom and pop stores are gonna be closing soon, but I think we can still make the Woolsworth. You got that?” She nods. “Great. Buy them something simple, nothing too expensive or extravagant. Something that they will like, not that you personally will like, okay?”

“Yeah, yeah, I’ve bought people gifts before!” she says indignantly. “I’ve probably bought better gifts than your mom ever could! I mean, who gifts their kid a baseball jersey?” she mutters.

“Really?” You gently punch her, a little offended by that. “It’s not JUST a jersey, Sumire. It happens to be a game used Rick Ferrell jersey signed by the man himself. He’s the best catcher in all of baseball right now!” You hug yourself, moping a little. “Plus, his jersey is cozy, I like to wear it when I sleep. So it’s practical too. I bet you wouldn’t buy me something as good as that.”

“Of course,” she says. “By the way, this country’s obsession with baseball is absolutely annoying. I’m glad baseball season absolutely dies in the win-“ She’s clocked in the face by a baseball. “Ow!” She kneels down, holding her head. “Agh… fu… everything hurts when it’s cold.”

[1/2]

>>44268184
[2/2]

“Sorry!” A gaggle of kids are busy playing street baseball in the cleaned out streets. Even in the winter, kids find a way to play the national pastime. It’s inspiring really. “C- could you throw the ball back!?” yells the pitcher. You nod, then take a gentle wind up and softly toss it back to the pitcher. He catches it in his glove, flinching at the impact. “Ow!” He frowns a little, looking at you. “You got an arm, lady!”

“Aw, does li’l Franky have a crush!?” yells the batter, big heavy kid, probably a power hitter and nothing else.

“I do not!” the pitcher yells back. “Get back in yer box ya mook!”

You kneel down next to Sumire, then help stand her up as she groans in pain. “Agh… darn kids!” She whines a little, holding her forehead. One benefit of being a Magical Girl, baseballs don’t leave much of a mark. Still hurt though. “Why are they playing baseball in the middle of winter for!?”

“Because there’s no baseball going on right now,” you say. “Come on, let’s just get to the Woolsworth.”

“Fine, fine,” she says. “But…” She scratches, grimacing. “Wh-… what should I get the kraut? Anneliese? Does she even deserve anything?” You nod, very sternly. “Okay. What do I get her?”

> A dress
> Shoes
> A toy
> “Whatever you think is undeniably American.”
> Other

>>44268198
>A toy

>>44268198
> “Whatever you think is undeniably American.”
Better make Libby cry tears of patriotism.

>>44268198
>A dress

A sexy one

>>44268198
>Shoes

>>44268198
> Shoes

>>44268264
Don't lewd the Anneliese!

>>44268198
>> Shoes
>>44268264
The only one Sumire should buy sexy dresses for is Libby.

>>44268198
>A toy

>>44268264
That's no help, every dress is sexy on Anneliese!

>>44268312
Not as sexy as on Libby though.

>>44268312
>>44268502
the dress is even sexier when its coming off them

>>44268527
Sumire pls go

>>44268264
We don't have much luck with sexy dresses 'round these parts. All they result in is the other girl wearing the same exact sexy dress, ayy lmaos and frozen forests in the middle of the night.

> Shoes

“How about some shoes?” you ask.

“Shoes?” She looks down at her own snowboots crinkling through the snow. “She’s not going to be able to use shoes until March, Libby.”

“It’s a suggestion. Besides, nice shoes are hard to come by. And I think Anneliese would appreciate a good dress pair for formal occasions,” you say. “You know her size, right?” She shakes her head. “Kirby does.”

“Ah.” Sumire leans over to Kirby. “What’s Libby’s bust size?”

“Larger than you think,” he says. You slap him quickly. “Ow.”

-

-

The Woolworths is alive with last minute shoppers and desperate children trying to get their parents to buy them the latest and greatest toys. It honestly didn’t seem like the last few years there was an economic recession going on, one that nearly tore the nation apart. Now it seems like things were recovering nice and smoothly. Kids could afford to be spoiled for once, and parents no longer had to work second jobs to pay for a house or some crummy room in a tenement building. Seeing the glitz and sparkle of the insides of the Woolworths was like finding yourself in a new wonderland.

And of course, Sumire had to ruin it. “Hey, Libby, look at this!” Sumire holds up a very fanciful wedding dress. “Who buys a wedding dress during Christmas?” You sigh, looking around for a gift for Sumire to buy. She slides on over next to you, holding the dress up over herself, as if wearing it. “What do you think though, might fit me?”

“We’re finding gifts for Anneliese and Rana, not for you,” you state simply. She grumbles, going to return the dress. Let’s see…

[1/2]

>>44268880
[2/2]

“Oh!” Sumire immediately wraps her arm around, then strings you along. “Libby, Libby, look!” Sumire points ahead to Santa Claus, taking pictures with little kids. “It’s Santa!” She shakes you, grinning happily. “What’s he doing here!? Why didn’t you tell me this Woolsworth has Santa Claus in it!? And so soon before Christmas!”

“S-…” You hold your tongue. No. Please. You can’t ruin this for her. “S-… Sumire. Look, Santa looks so busy with all the kids and we got…” You check your watch. “Like only an hour or two left, we have to-“

“I’m gonna go!” Sumire lets go of you, letting you fall to the ground. She immediately and patiently takes her spot in line. That’s honestly the most patient you’ve seen her yet. Kirby crawls up your arm, resting his head on your shoulder.

“Are you going to tell her?” you ask.

> “I can’t.”
> “I have to. At some point.”
> “I probably should actually.”
> Other

>>44268903
> “I have to. At some point.”

>>44268903
>> “I have to. At some point.”
>“I can’t.”

>>44268903
>> “I have to. At some point.”

>>44268903
>“I can’t.”
Hilarious as it is to tell kids Santa doesn't exist, Sumire deserves better.

>>44268903
> “I can’t.”

>>44268903
> “I have to. At some point.”

Best to get it over with, and then make it up to her later

>>44268903
> “I probably should actually.”
I bet she'll cry.

>>44268903
> “I can’t.”
Libby can't ruin Christmas!

>>44269008
NO BULLY

>>44268903
>> “I can’t.”
"This is the sweetest thing I have ever seen of her. The once piece of child-like innocence in an otherwise cynical girl."

If Libby doesn't tell her someone else will though. Probably.

>>44269109
Sumire is not cynical, she's merely, um, pragmatic.

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> “I can’t.”
> “I have to. At some point.”

“I have to. But I can’t. Today at some point I will maybe,” you say. “But right now we gotta get the presents together, get all of Anneliese’s and Rana’s stuff, maybe something for Mom and Doctor Savage from Sumire if we have time. Right now I have to buy shoes for Anneliese, and… what would Rana like?”

Kirby tilts his head. “So you are going to lie to her by proxy.”

“You-“ You stomp your foot. “Damn it, Kirby, don’t make me look insane, I’ll get put in a sanatorium and…” You look down at a little girl, who’s staring up at you.

“A… are you talking to your cat?” she asks.

You nod. “Yes. No one will ever believe you.” The girl nods, walking away slowly while still staring at you. “Look at Sumire.” The two of you see her waiting in line, smiling happily, bouncing on her toes as she waits to sit on Santa’s lap. “She looks so happy. I-… I can’t take that from her. That’s probably the only time I’ll ever get to see her happy like that.”

“I can understand. Perhaps ignorance is bliss. But, one must understand that as you grow up, the world becomes much smaller. And the great myths and legends become history,” says Kirby. Ugh, great. You’re being lectured by a magical cat in the middle of a Woolsworth. You cross your arms, stepping towards a shelf of shoes. Ooh, there’s a pretty black pair that Anneliese will love. And these fit her too.

But you stop. Goddamn it. Do you really want to break Sumire’s last bit of childlike wonder and innocence? You look over again, and find that Sumire has actually let a few kids cut in line in front of her. AAAGH DARN IT, Sumire stop being so… kind! Forget it, you’re not going to tell her, at least not now. You just need to find a gift for Rana from Sumire.

…

Darn it. What does Rana want from Sumire?

> Guns? Does a Woolsworth even sell guns?
> Um, maybe a toy?
> Maybe something baseball related?
> Other

>>44269381
>Maybe something baseball related?

this is the only answer that's AMERICAN enough

>>44269381
> Um, maybe a toy?
Something elaborately mechanical

>>44269381
>Guns? Does a Woolsworth even sell guns?

>>44269381
> Guns? Does a Woolsworth even sell guns?

>>44269381
> Um, maybe a toy?

>>44269381
>Guns? Does a Woolsworth even sell guns?
Does it? Weren't gun laws in those times very strict?

>>44269381
>Um, maybe a toy?

>>44269381
>> Um, maybe a toy?
A toy... gun?

>>44269381
>Sumire would probabally give her a sweater with a cleavage window, but lets stick to baseball

>>44269653
That's actually Anneliese's gift to Rana.

>>44269680
giggity

>>44269680
Anneliese is a good girl, she wouldn't buy that!

>>44269680
is Sumires gift to us just her wearing nothing but ribbons, or is that what she wants from us

> Um, maybe a toy?

You pick up an Erector Construction set. “Oooh! Look at this!” You hold it up for Kirby to see. “What do you think, Kirby? It’s only ten dollars. And surprisingly there’s lots of these just lying around.” Do kids really not like these? You remember your mom bought you one for your tenth birthday, and you had so much of a blast you forgot she didn’t even come home!

“I think it will do very well,” says Kirby. “But I’d advise you to stop talking to me in public.” Oh right. You let Kirby onto your shoulder again, then hold the Erector set underarm. Okay, just need to get these purchased. You hurry on over to the Santa to get Sumire so you all can buy these things and go home. Mom and Doctor Savage are usually fine with a letter anyway (and you’re not sure what an archaeologist and a millionare adventure hunter like Doctor Savage would even want). You wait behind the fencepoles, and see her sit on Santa’s lap.

“So, what would you like for Christmas, little girl?” asks Santa. You smile a little. Ah, the jolly old fat guy in a red suit with a white beard.

“Well…” Sumire purses her lips. Santa checks his watch for a second, then goes back to attentively listening to Sumire. “Honestly, there’s a lot of things I want, Santa. But I think it would do you real well to…” She looks over at you, and then motions Santa closer. She whispers in his ear, occasionally glancing at you. Santa nods, scratching his beard in thought. What is she saying? She leans back, smiling. “Just between you and me of course.”

He puts a finger to his lip, smirking. “Mum’s the word.”

[1/2]

>>44269774
This is the kind of stuff you can't coordinate, as it's meant to be a surprise. I say she wears the lace and we the ribbons.

>>44269832
[2/2]

“Thanks, Santa!” Sumire hops off his lap, then runs over to you. “Got everything?” You nod. “Sweet! Ooh, those are nice shoes, and an erector set, awesome! They’ll love that you and me bought those for them!”

“What did you tell Santa?” you ask.

She shrugs. “If I tell you, he won’t deliver it, sorry.” You roll your eyes. “Anyway, I should actually get you something while you’re here.” You check your watch. Agh, it’s 6:30. As nice as Rana and Anneliese are, you don’t trust them with the Christmas ham at all.

> “Go on without me. I gotta head back and get dinner started.”
> “Alright, fine, fine. We can stay a little longer.”
> “No, we have to go now, Sumire.”
> Other

>>44269856
> “Alright, fine, fine. We can stay a little longer.”
Time to split!

>>44269856
>“Alright, fine, fine. We can stay a little longer.”

>>44269856
>> “Alright, fine, fine. We can stay a little longer.”

>>44269856
> “Go on without me. I gotta head back and get dinner started.”

>>44269856
>“No, we have to go now, Sumire.”
We must save the ham.

>>44269856
>“Alright, fine, fine. We can stay a little longer.”

I bet she asked for Libby for Christmas.

> “Alright, fine, fine. We can stay a little longer.”

“Alright, we can stay a little longer. Let me get this stuff bought up though,” you say. She nods. Hopefully she won’t take too long.

-

-

“Attention, shoppers, the Woolsworth is now closing.” You and Sumire step out of the Woolsworth into the biting night cold.

“How exactly did you spend an hour looking for a gift for me!?” You check your watch. 7:30!? Ugh, the ham! Not just the ham, what about Anneliese and Rana!? “What did you buy me that was so important you needed an hour to consider it!?”

She shrugs, holding it up in a simple bag. “Did you want to see?”

“No! That’d ruin it on Christmas morning,” you say. You’re at least glad that she bought you something. “But come on, we have to hurry before the Ham overcooks or burns or Rana and Anneliese burn the house down!”

-

-

You kick open the door to your open. “The ham!” you yell. You and Sumire hurry into the dining and find…

The ham being served onto the table. Anneliese and Rana look at you, surprised. You take a sniff. Doesn’t smell burnt. Doesn’t look like there were any scenes of chaos either. You take a quick whiff of Anneliese’s hair. No scent of any fouldoing or sinning either. “Eh… erm. Was ist los? I mean, what’s wrong?” asks Anneliese.

Rana smiles happily, setting a plate for you and Sumire down. “Christine just thought we’d mishandle the ham. I told you, you could trust me with the ham, Christine!” Oh. You sigh, your heart slowing to a much more relaxed pace. “Not a single ounce out of place. Did you all have fun shopping?” You nod, placing the already wrapped up gifts beneath the trees. “So, are we going Christmas caroling first or we going to have dinner?”

“Well, the ham is already set out,” you say. “Let’s just have some dinner.” Sumire smiles, setting her coat down on a chair. You check your watch. Hm…

“Something wrong?” asks Rana.

[1/2]

>>44270839
[2/2]

“Er, nothing,” you say. “I mean, I told my Mom she was free to spend Christmas with us but she had some business to attend to over at the Smithsonian.” You sit down, sighing as you take off your coat as well and set it on your chair. “I can forgive it, just this once.”

“Aw, poor thing.” Rana pats your head. “Did she at least get you a present?” You nod. “Good! Tell you what.” Everyone sits down. “Christine, why don’t you say grace?”

You nod. “Alright.” You four clasp your hands together. “Lord. Thank you for the food we have on this table, for the food other families have on their tables as well. Please keep the peace in the world, we thank you forever for putting us on this Earth and letting us live in this world you have given us. Thank you. Amen.” Sumire quickly starts chopping up ham to put on her plate. “Sumire, the ham is for everybody.”

“That’s why I’m getting as much as I can,” you say. You’re about to scold her, before the phone draws your attention. You quietly excuse yourself, then hurry into the living room to pick it up. This had better be important.

“Christine.”

“Christine?” It’s Mom! “Hey, kiddo. I just finished up my business down here in the museums but, I don’t think I can make it up to New York for dinner. I could probably do dinner tomorrow though, how about that?” Is she… is she actually making an effort to socialize with you? You quietly pump your fist, grinning. Yes!

“Sure, Mom, that’d be great!”

“So how are things?” she asks.

“Oh, well, you know,” you say. “Rana and Anneliese are doing fine. Sumire is… Sumire.” You whisper to her quickly. “She thinks Santa’s going to come and give her things.”

“Really? Isn’t she a year older than you?” Is she? Huh. She doesn’t act like it. “Goodness, Christine. You should probably tell her.”

“Oh, I don’t know.”

“Christine, lying is a sin, even lying by silence. It's just Santa anyway, no real harm.”

> “I’ll tell her after dinner.”
> “No, I’m not going to tell her.”
> Other

>>44270871
>“I’ll tell her after dinner.”

>>44270871
> “No, I’m not going to tell her

>>44270871
> “I’ll tell her after dinner.”
Shit...

>>44270871
>“I’ll tell her after dinner.”

>>44270871
> “No, I’m not going to tell her.”

>>44270871
>“I’ll tell her after dinner.”

> “I’ll tell her after dinner.”

Ugh… as much as you hate to lose good girl Sumire, Mom is right. What’s God going to think if you lead on Sumire for the rest of her life? “Fine, I’ll tell her after dinner, Mom.”

“Good girl!” says Mom. “Look, Sumire I’m sure is a mature woman, she can handle a little shock like Santa Claus not being real. Now listen, I’m gonna be looking at stuff in the Woolsworth while I’m here, did you want anything?”

“No,” you say.

“M’Kay. Well, I’ll see you tomorrow, kiddo. Merry Christmas.” You hang up, sighing. Dang it, Mom. Why do you do this? You shake your head, walking back to the dinner table. Rana has already set out a plate of ham, some mashed potatoes, corn and peas, and a bit of gravy too. Well, you can probably forget about it until you finish dinner of course. You start digging in, and find it relatively good. Hm, your cooking is still as good as ever at least.

“Who was that?” asks Sumire.

“Just my mom,” you say. “Don’t worry about it.”

Rana smiles happily. “So, Christine.” You look at her. “Let’s talk baseball for a second.” Sumire slams her head into the table. “We live in New York, the capital of baseball! Which Opening Day should we go to? The Yankees, or the Giants, or the Dodgers? I mean, me personally, I’m a fan of my Dodgers but the Yankees… I love the Yankees! But I really want to see King Carl pitch, especially after that one All-Star game!” You nod. Truth be told, if there were any New York team you liked, it was the Yankees, mostly for Lou Gehrig. Now there was a man with longevity. “What do you think?”

“Well if the Dodgers are your home team, we can see go see the Dodgers,” you say.

“Awesome!”

“Why are you guys already making plans for baseball?” asks Sumire.

[1/2]

>>44271736
[2/2]

“We live in a city that has three Major League teams,” you explain. “We need to make plans in advance because all three could be playing at home at once.” She rolls her eyes, eating her food sloppily. “Stop eating like that, eat like a lady.” You take up your napkin and wipe her face. She grumbles, slapping your hand away. “Jeez, you’re such a baby.”

“Tch. What are you, my mom?” she asks sarcastically.

Anneliese coughs a little. “S… so um.” You all look at her. “I just want to thank you, Christine. For giving me a place to stay. I didn’t think things would be so smooth between you and me after all that happened.”

You smile. Aw, Anneliese. “It’s fine. Look, water under the bridge. We should consider it part of the Christmas spirit that we’re inviting former enemy to dine and live with us.” Rana nods agreeing. Sumire shrugs, not really caring either way. “You’re going to love it here, Anneliese. Everyone is very nice.”

“Yeah, except for the places that don’t serve Negroes, Japs, or Irish,” says Sumire. Anneliese blinks, tilting her head. You look over at Sumire, sternly. She shrugs. “Just saying.”

“Regardless,” you say. “You’ll fit in fine here, Anneliese.” She nods, smiling. “Anyway, let’s eat your fill then…” You check your watch again. “We can go caroling for a bit.”

Sumire nods. “You know, this year I think is finally the year.” You all look at her. “The year I finally get to see Santa Claus! And not like in the Woolsworth, but him actually planting our presents under the tree. What do you think?”

Rana giggles a little. “You’re going to be up all night then!” Sumire blinks, giving a sharp glare at Rana. “I mean, come on, Sumire. Santa isn’t…” Her playful smile suddenly drops as she looks at you. Uh oh. Sumire looks at you, confused.

> “Santa isn’t coming because we don’t have a chimney. And if you can’t fit through the window, what makes you think he can?”
> “Santa’s not coming because he doesn’t exist.”
> Other

>>44271752
> “Santa isn’t coming because we don’t have a chimney. And if you can’t fit through the window, what makes you think he can?”

>>44271752
>> “Santa isn’t coming because we don’t have a chimney. And if you can’t fit through the window, what makes you think he can?”

>>44271752
>“Santa isn’t coming because we don’t have a chimney. And if you can’t fit through the window, what makes you think he can?”

>>44271752
> “Santa’s not coming because he doesn’t exist.”
We said we would, anons!

>santa's not coming

But if Sumire plays her cards right, Libby might

>>44271752
> “Santa isn’t coming because we don’t have a chimney. And if you can’t fit through the window, what makes you think he can?”

>>44272016
Anon pls.

>>44271752
>“Santa’s not coming because he doesn’t exist.”
Crush her.

>>44272144
What have we said about bullying anon?

>>44272162
That bullying Sumire is great and we should do it more often?

>>44272435
Not on Christmas Eve!

>>44272453
But Christmas Eve is the best day for it! You've already got the apology gift all lined up!

>>44272487
Libby is not a 'gift' anon.

> “Santa isn’t coming because we don’t have a chimney. And if you can’t fit through the window, what makes you think he can?”

Sumire narrows her eyes. “Are you calling me fat?”

You pinch her hip, smiling a little. “Not fat, just thick in all the right places.”

“Hmph.” She scoots away, turning her nose up. Oh, thank God. You wipe your brow. That was a close one. But judging by the looks of Anneliese and Rana, they certainly know Santa doesn’t exist. And they certainly don’t approve of keeping up the lie for someone older than you. You’ll just tell though Sumire after dinner, after caroling maybe.

Ugh, look at yourself, you’re procrastinating. You’ve become Sumire!

-

-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Biytr9AhHFw

Bells ring as a family of four opens their door to see you four at their porch, singing.

It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth,
To touch their harps of gold:
"Peace on the earth, goodwill to men,
From heaven's all-gracious King."
The world in solemn stillness lay,
To hear the angels sing.

The family claps as you finish the hymn, one of your favorites in fact. Anneliese and Rana ring their bells happily. “Thank you!” says the mom. Suddenly, Sumire presents a jar full of money. “… er?”

“Hey, this song isn’t free,” Sumire says simply.

You slap your hand over Sumire’s big useless mouth. “What she means is that we’re raising some dollars for charity. Any donations?”

“Sure thing, girls!” The father smokes on his pipe as he takes out his wallet and dumps about ten dollars into the jar. “You keep up the good work, sing like the angels you are, alright?” You smile happily, swelling with pride. You never thought of yourself as a good singer. “Merry Christmas!”

“Merry Christmas!” the four of you declare. You step back into the street, smiling as you shuffle through the money. “How much money did we make?” asks Sumire.

[1/2]

>>44272546
[2/2]

You pull the jar away from her, frowning. “Wouldn’t you like to know?” She rolls her eyes, and to that you say, “We’ve made about a hundred bucks. Plenty of money to buy some coats and socks for people in the soup kitchens. And no, you’re not getting a cut out of this, this is for charity, Sumire.”

She rolls her eyes. “Aw come on, just a few dollars.”

“Remember Santa!” you call. She looks absolutely torn, then relents, stuffing her hands into pockets. Hmph. As the four of you venture back towards your apartment, Rana pulls you aside. She tilts her head, silently judging why you’re keeping the secret of Santa from her. You shrug, also silently saying that you just don’t want to break her heart. Rana frowns, disappointed, considering she never believed in Santa from the start. Anneliese probably didn’t either. Mom certainly never taught you to believe in someone who just handed things out for free. Ugh, are you really making a moral dilemma out of Santa Claus!? Ridiculous.

You stop Sumire as Rana opens the door to the apartment. “Oh?” She smiles, leaning towards you. “Need some alone time?” You roll your eyes as Rana and Anneliese step in. “What’s up?”

“Erm. Sumire…” You sigh deeply. “Listen uh…”

“Actually, let me say something. Thanks.” You blink. Sumire smiles happily, crossing her arms. “It’s… not often that I get to spend Christmas with somebody, not since I had to leave Japan. And in a warm house too with a big ham for dinner!” She pats her belly, grinning. “What I’m trying to say, Libby is uh…” She sighs, brushing her hair back a little. Then she gently kisses your cheek. The heat suddenly runs up to your face. Oh no… “Christine, thank you, for giving me a really good Christmas.”

… oh no…

“Was there something you wanted to tell me?”

> “… no.”
> “Santa Claus doesn’t exist.”
> “Um. You look nice?”
> Other

>>44272568
> “Um. You look nice?”

>>44272542
Of course not, she isn't properly giftwrapped. Yet.

>>44272568
>“Santa Claus doesn’t exist.”
This does seem like the perfect time to just blurt it out, Libby's brain is not going to be firing on all cylinders after that.

>>44272568
> “Santa Claus doesn’t exist.”
Brave the dangerous straits of crushing disappointment and disillusion anons!

>>44272568
>> “Um. You look nice?”
Let's marry!

>>44272568
>“Um. You look nice?”

>>44272568
> “Santa Claus doesn’t exist.”

>>44272695
I don't think that's legal yet anon. Gonna need another 70 or so years.

>>44272568
> “Um. You look nice?”

>>44272568
>> “… no.”
>> “Um. You look nice?”
Oh, jesus.

>>44273164
We'll get to Jesus later, Santa is enough trouble at the moment.

Libby's ongoing cowardice is just going to make it sting all the more when the truth comes out.

>>44273262
So it goes.

File: DoomPaul - it's not too late.jpg (20 KB, 535x382)

20 KB JPG

>>44272568
>“Santa Claus doesn’t exist.”

>>44273314
It was always too late.

>>44272568
> “Um. You look nice?”

> “Um. You look nice?”

“You look nice.” You smile a little. “You’re wearing that coat I bought you.”

She nods, tugging on the brown wool coat that you bought for her when she first came over. “Yeah. It’s pretty cozy. Probably not the last thing you’ll buy me though.” Ugh. You roll your eyes for the thousandth time. “Tell you what though, I’m gonna invite you to stay up with me as we watch out for Santa Claus! I know we may not have a chimney, but that doesn’t mean he won’t find some way to get into our apartment.” She taps your cheek, smiling. “Wanna do it?”

“Erm, maybe,” you say. “We’ll see.”

“Great!” She grins, walking inside. “See you inside.”

…

Kirby pops up onto your shoulder. “You didn’t tell her?”

“It’s really hard, okay!?” you say. “I… I can’t… I can’t do it. I can’t break her heart like that! It’d kill her!”

“No it won’t. Words never directly killed anyone,” he says. “I’d advise saying it at some point before midnight, just so she is not disappointed.”

“Okay, okay, this time for sure,” you say.

-

-

The two of you sit on your couch, watching the Christmas tree. The only light now was candles set around the place, mostly to keep the electricity bill down but also to substitute for a fireplace. Rana steps in, looking around. She’s dressed in a nice sleepgown that shows off every contour and curve of her body. Now that’s something you’d love if you were a boy. “You guys staying up?” she asks.

“Yeah,” you say.

“To watch for Santa,” says Sumire.

Rana looks at you, surprised. You shrug, saddened. She sighs, a bit disappointed. “Well, don’t stay up too long, okay?” You nod, and she steps back into her room to sleep with Anneliese.

Sumire sighs, leaning on you as she holds a cup of hot chocolate in her hand. She wears a silky green nightgown, letting you see so much underneath, leaving so little to the imagination. It was giving you the weirdest feelings. You take a sip of your hot chocolate, grimacing at the intense heat of it. “So we wait?"

>>44273693
[2/2]

“Yeah. We pretend we’re asleep, we catch him in the act.” She shuts her eyes, resting her head against your shoulder. You sigh, placing your hot chocolate on the end table. She crosses her legs, resting them on the spare space on the couch. “Hm, your shoulder’s like a pillow.” She then slowly collapses onto your lap, sighing in bliss. “Oooh… that’s better.”

“Sumire, please,” you say.

“Oh?” She tilts her head, opening one eye to look at you. Those green eyes of hers, innocent and yet mature. She tugs at the straps of her nightgown, smirking. “Want something a little more?”

“I think wearing this would put you on Santa’s naughty list.”

“Hm.” She sighs, rolling over and placing her face directly into your belly. “Ugh, whatever. Good night. Merry Christmas.”

You look over at Kirby, who is monitoring everything as he sits within the star atop the Christmas tree. Anything? “Nope,” he responds. “I have also asked other Messengers in timezones where it would be Santa’s delivery time as well. They report nothing.” Great. Your last hope in the Messengers and it turns out that in a world full of magic, Santa of all people doesn’t actually exist. What a bust.

[2/3]

>>44273706
[3/3]

Sumire quickly reaches out and places her cup of hot chocolate on the end table. “Tell you what. I got a present just for you, Christine.” You blink. What? “Wait here.” She quickly heads into your room. By your ear twitching she sounds like she’s… undressing? And dressing into…

The door opens, and she leans on the doorway wearing a baseball jersey. A Rick Ferrell Washington Senators jersey just like yours.

… and nothing else. She smirks, leaning on the armrest and looking at you. “Bought this at the Woolsworth today to match yours.” Erm. Uh. “What do you think?”

“Where is… your underwear?” you ask.

“I don’t see how that’s relevant.” She hops onto the couch, and her bare legs rub up against yours. Oh God, what is she doing? Is she-… she’s trying to get something out of you. Maybe she knows. She knows that you know Santa doesn’t exist? At least she’s keeping the jersey buttoned up! She sighs, leaning on you. “You’re right, these jerseys are pretty cozy.” She looks up at you, batting her eyes. She slowly runs her finger along your belly, making your heart almost burst at the seams and your face go red from the embarrassment. “You know, we can snuggle up a little, you and me…”

> “SANTA DOESN’T EXIST, AAAHHHH!”
> “Santadoesn’texistI’vebeenlyingtoyoupleasestopthisIdon’twanttobeasinner!”
> “You’re giving me a heart attack! I feel weird! Santa doesn’t exist! Please stop it!”
> Other

>>44273726
>> “Santadoesn’texistI’vebeenlyingtoyoupleasestopthisIdon’twanttobeasinner!”

>>44273726
> Other
Accept this fate, We become the Santa.

>>44273726
>“You’re giving me a heart attack! I feel weird! Santa doesn’t exist! Please stop it!”

>>44273726
> “You’re giving me a heart attack! I feel weird! Santa doesn’t exist! Please stop it!”

>>44273726
>“Santadoesn’texistI’vebeenlyingtoyoupleasestopthisIdon’twanttobeasinner!”
Poor Christine.

>>44273726
> “SANTA DOESN’T EXIST, AAAHHHH!”
Awww man, poor Sumire worked so hard to surprise Christine with a nice present too. AND she got the baseball jersey!

File: spaghetti 2.gif (956 KB, 336x176)

956 KB GIF

>>44273726
>> “Santadoesn’texistI’vebeenlyingtoyoupleasestopthisIdon’twanttobeasinner!”

It strikes me that as long as they're distracted by lewdness, we can excuse Santa's non-appearance as not wanting to interrupt.

Clearly continuing is the rational course of action.

>>44273726
>Other
>Accept your fate

>She wears a silky green nightgown, letting you see so much underneath, leaving so little to the imagination. It was giving you the weirdest feelings.
>weirdest feelings
So, we actually are into girls
>Santa doesn't exist, I just couldn't bear to hurt you.

>>44273847
Libby is not for lewds!

>>44273891
It's for a good cause anon! It keeps a girl's joy alive another year!

>>44273875
Given previous narration I think Christine is into both.

>>44273919
Into nightgowns and girls?

>>44273947
Cute girls and manly men, sexy nightgowns are simply an improvement to the former.

>>44273947
Into baseball-jerseys, not nightgowns, anon. At least when worn commando.

>>44274007
I wonder if this jersey was big enough to actually cover Sumire.

>>44273726
> Other
Accept it

>>44274049
She could have bought a bigger size, and she IS Japanese so probably. I doubt Libby would have the presence of mind to be thankful she buttoned it if not!

>>44273726
>> Other
"Sumire, there's someting I have been keeping a secret from you... but I can't hold it back any longer... I... I am Santa Claus!"

>>44274117
Hah.

> “Santadoesn’texistI’vebeenlyingtoyoupleasestopthisIdon’twanttobeasinner!”

“What?” She pulls back, surprised.

“Santa doesn’t exist! He doesn’t exist! I’ve been lying to you, everyone and their mother has been lying to you! Even your immediate family was lying to you! Please stop!” you cry, clutching yourself. “I’m sorry!”

She blinks, sitting up a bit, tugging on her jersey. “Oh.” She leans back a bit, now sitting in a proper Japanese kneeling sit. “Wow- a-…” You nod. “Really?” You nod again, frowning deeply. “Oh. Damn it. Even the Santa at the Woolsworth?” You nod, yeah he’s fake. “Damn.” She pulls her legs up, and hugs them, sighing.

“A… are you okay?” you ask.

“Yeah, don’t worry,” she says. “I’m used to being disappointed.” Oh, you poor thing. You scoot closer to her, then wrap your arms around her and let her rest her head on your chest. “I mean, growing up, Mom and Dad always did say Santa wouldn’t bring me presents forever. I wondered why, I’ve always tried to be a good girl but… I guess him not existing is a pretty damn good reason.”

“I’m sorry, I should’ve told you earlier, I just didn’t want hurt you.” You look her in the eye. “You seemed so happy talking about him and…”

“It’s fine,” she says. She shuts her eyes, smiling. “I don’t need Santa to have a good Christmas. I just need you, Christine.” You blink, suddenly feeling the heat rise to your cheeks again. “Isn’t that what Christmas is about?” She pulls up a bit, smirking. “Well, besides the story of the baby Jesus and the Three Kings. Christmas is about showing the ones you love that you care about them, right? Spreading joy to others so they can too, right?”

“Right,” you say. Oh. You had forgotten that in the rush not to tell Sumire. Dang it. Now you feel like you wasted this Christmas worrying about her. “Sumire, I’m so sorry.”

[1/?]

>>44274609
[2/?]

She gently pecks you on the cheek again. “Don’t be. You and me are square.” She wraps her arm around you once again, grinning. “And hey, you’re just the right amount of thick for me!” She pinches your hip, and you stifle a bit of laughter. “Come on!” She tackles you as you laugh, trying to fight her off.

“Stop it!” you yell, not really wanting her to stop. Your legs kick at each other, your hands grip each other, and your breaths caress each other’s faces. Haha! You could do this all night!

-

-

“It’s Christmas!” Rana bursts out of her room, pulling her blanket over her head to act as a hood. Sumire groans, her face buried in your chest and her jersey having come undone during your little er… fun time last night. She rubs her eyes as you also stir awake. Anneliese yawns, following after Rana as she bounces towards the Christmas tree. “Oh, oh, it’s time for presents! Time for presents!”

“Yeah, yeah…” You groan. Sumire gently rests her head on your chest again. “… get off me, Sumire.”

“You first,” she says. You push her off, letting her fall to the floor. “Ow.” You yawn, stretching your arms and legs. Rana and Anneliese are already sorting out the presents. “I’ll get breakfast started, get started on the presents without me!” Sumire crawls over, wanting to see how many presents she got. As you bring out the frying pan for the pancakes and break out the eggs too, you look at them from the dining room.

Rana opens up a present to reveal an Erector Set. “Whoa! Awesome! Thanks, Sumire!” She clutches the box happily. Sumire nods, waving her off, knowing she didn’t actually buy that for her.

“Ja, ja!” Anneliese looks at her brand new dress shoes happily. “How did you know my size?”

Sumire looks up at Kirby, still watching over you all from the star. “Eh… lucky guess.”

>>44274623
[3/?]

“Oooh, this is a very lovely sweater, Anneliese!” Rana happily grins as she unwraps her new sweater. “Huh. There’s a hole in the middle!” Rana pokes her arm straight through it. “Oooh, is this for attracting suitors?” Anneliese glances away, whistling a bit. “Ooooooh, you sly girl! I love it! I’ll wear this for Valentine’s Day!”

Sumire unwraps a present for her. “Oh, what’s this?” asks Sumire as she holds up a thick leather glove.

“That’s a baseball glove!” says Rana. “If you ever want to play catch with me or Christine. Uh, Christine got Anneliese one too!”

“Wow!” Anneliese has already fitted her hand into the baseball glove. “It feels so powerful!” She punches the inside of the glove. “So stiff!”

“Yeah, you got to break those things in,” you say as you fry the pancakes. “Anneliese, what did you get for Sumire?”

Sumire unwraps Anneliese’s gift, and is immediately surprised by it. “It’s… a doll?” A simple ragdoll, dressed in a green dress like Sumire always wears and yarn black hair as well.

“Oh, ja.” Anneliese blushes a little. “I-… I didn’t know what to get you, I’m not sure what you are interested in.”

“Aw.” Your little Jap pinches Anneliese’s cheek. “I love it.” Anneliese beams, happily. “Want me to unwrap your gifts for you, Libby?” You yell a yes to her as you flip the pancakes. “This one is from Rana. And it is… oh! It’s a BB gun!” You blink, looking over to see a BB gun in sthe style of those Old West repeaters. Not bad. You might get some target practice on that. “And from Anneliese, you have… ha! It’s a model airplane!”

“Thanks, guys!” you say happily. They nod as you walk over and admire your new presents. “Seriously, these are great.” You check your watch. “Ooh, get breakfast in you, quick. We better head to Church early.” They nod, running into the dining room. Dang kids. Sumire happily kicks her legs back and forth as she rests on the floor, looking at all of the presents. “No gift from me to you?”

>>44274634
[4/4]

She smirks. “I was your gift.” You roll your eyes.

“Well, it was a nice gift,” you say as you kneel down. You blink however. Huh. You lean in and pull out one present. “What’s this?”

From: Kirby
To: All of you

“Kirby.” You look up at him. “You gave us a present?”

“Open it,” he says as he appears out of the star. You unwrap the gift. Rana and Anneliese step out of the dining room, watching as you unravel it. And inside the box was a lovely music box. You tuned it up, and let it play the softest toy music. It was playing It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, your favorite hymn. And beyond that was a card.


Girls,

Words cannot expressly describe how deeply I care for all of you. I will never forget all that you do for the world.

I only ask in return this one thing:

Be good girls.

Merry Christmas,

Kirby


You look up at Kirby. “… it’s a very simple request,” he says. You hug him, aw. This sentimental little cat. Sumire wipes away a stray tear after reading it, then stands up to join the others in the kitchen.

“Thank you, Kirby.” You stand up, then happily place the music box on a shelf next to the couch, where you all can see it. “Well, come on everyone! It’s Christmas! Let’s get breakfast in us, and we can head to Church!” They all nod, quickly heading in to eat. You stop however, then hold Kirby out so you can talk to him. “I thought you’d pull some sort of Santa thing right then and there you little cat.”

“I almost did,” he says. “But I realized I had not given you or anyone else any gifts for Christmas. I felt this would be a good time to.”

“Well, you picked a good time,” you say.

He nods. “By the way, I don’t suppose I should-“ You silence him.

> “Mum’s the word.”
> “I’ll kill you if you tell anyone what happened last night.”
> “Just… don’t.”
> Other

>>44274652
> “I’ll kill you if you tell anyone what happened last night.”
Good end!
Too late for me, night Schteel

>>44274652
> “I’ll kill you if you tell anyone what happened last night.”

>>44274652
> “Mum’s the word.”

File: that's forbidden 3.jpg (110 KB, 960x540)

110 KB JPG

>>44274652
>> “Just… don’t.”

>>44274652
>“Mum’s the word.”
We haven't given Sumire our gift either.

>>44274652
> Dont tell anyone, If anyone needs to know, which they better not, I'll tell them.

>>44274652
As a side note, I've only been ever able to imagine Kyuubey when Kirby is mentioned, even though we know what he(?) looks like.

>>44274652
>“Mum’s the word.”

>>44274800
Well Kirby's name is derived a bit from Kyuubey. Also serve similar roles.

Also, Kirby is best.

>>44274652
>> “I’ll kill you if you tell anyone what happened last night.”

> “Mum’s the word.”

You press your finger against your lips. “Mum’s the word, Kirby.”

“Very well.” You look over at the tree, then pick up one last present.

“Hey, Sumire, you didn’t open my gift to you,” you say.

“Oh?” She pokes her head out of the dining room, then happily walks over and quickly unwraps it as you hold it. She pulls it out to reveal a lovely green shirtdress. “Oh!” She holds it over her body, smiling. “Wow, casual! I love it!” She happily spins around with it. “Nice one, Libby. Can’t wait to wear this!”

“Yeah, just don’t wear it to Church, you already have something formal for that,” you say. You step into the kitchen. “Right, come on, everybody eat up!” Everyone begins furiously eating their breakfast. Scrambled eggs, sausage and bacon, and pancakes. It’s a big buffet of breakfast for them all. It’s right in there with the Christmas spirit.

You sigh happily as you sit down to eat with your girls. You can hear the church bells tolling in the distance, and cars honking and beeping outside already. The city has awoken now, to the sounds of Christmas morning. To the spirit of giving, loving, and caring. To the tune of worshipping the baby Jesus and celebrating his birth. With a sip of your coffee, you happily smile as everyone eats.

Feels like a merry Christmas.

File: wPf8SBJ.jpg (310 KB, 900x900)

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTNheCEUP_A

That's it for this suprise Christmas special for Magical Girl Liberty. Hope you all enjoyed. Tomorrow will be a Magic Shop-verse chapter in Town Adventurer.

Follow at: https://twitter.com/GermanSchteel
Ask at: http://germanschteel.tumblr.com/

See you next time.

>>44275514
Night GS

>>44275514
Thanks for running, boss.

>>44275514
Thanks for the thread!