#earthrunes

And he blinks at Zara whispers an evil laugh.

A twinkle-eyed grin.

That brings a true smile to his lips.

And then he turns to the burning blue treats.

"Zara, be sure to have the first aid kit near...."

A wink.

He chooses with his eyes, then snatches a small amount from the plate, and blows to make sure they are out.

"Oh, aye... Emma seems most occupied with mischief tonight.."

"There! You survived!" A pleased smile to August, and she plucks a plump, flaming raisin up for herself.

August might be surprised to discover that the flame really isn't all that hot at all, not if one is quick.

August eats his treats obediently.

Zara is still gumming on her first raisin.

Somewhere, Scrooge is being beaten to enlgihtenment with nerf toys shaped like big hearts and gifts

August sips his doctored drink, and coughs.

Meanwhile, Zara gets a Yule gift. Just one of three.

That is, from Earl

The bulk of Earl's gifts were given over Hanukkah - socks and paintbrushes and the like. But oh, a new gift? What could it be?

A book to be sure.. but when she opens it... 1953 hardly her oldestt... wait, what's this material?

Sniff?

"You may want to seal it" he says "it's Asbestos related... The cover"

"Oh!"

"I know Fahrenheit 451 may not be your favorite, but .. well" A smile "For this..."

"Oh, it won't burn!"

"Oh, how delightful!"

THAT gets a kiss.

"Well, the cover wont, wouldn't risk the pages.. and Mmmm"

"It's wonderful." Zara declares, and steals Earl away.

"Well there are two other.. "YOINK... and the couple, and one of the mistletoe bunches, vanish