The moment Jon stepped into the cabin, he was assaulted by what he could only describe as imps in black clothing. Santa stepped into the cabin behind him, saying "Stop that! Jon is our guest." The multitude of black-clothed imps stopped their assault, then ran off, causing mischief elsewhere. "Sorry about that, Jon. It's one of the conditions of the truce."
"Truce? What truce? What were those things?" Jon asked.
"Those 'things', as you put it, are evil elves, the counterparts of my own elves at the North Pole."
"I think you better explain to me what's going on," Jon said. "Why is there an evil Santa at the North Pole? Why are you at the South Pole instead of at your workshop? What truce are you talking about? Just what the hell is happening?"
"Take a seat, Jon. I'll explain everything, as best I can," Santa said.
Jon sat down on the comfortable couch, near the blazing fireplace, and Santa explained ...
