AN: Well, I've been keeping my promise so far. As promised, here's the next little installment of A Winter's Tale!

Disclaimer: I don't own AKT.

The savory flavors of crushed walnuts, dried currants, nutmeg, and finely chopped beef danced across Roland's tongue, and the heady scents of warmed milk and spiced wine filled his nose. The sounds of laughter, loud chatter, and cheerful shouts hummed pleasantly in his ears. The off-key singing of twenty tipsy men echoed through the large cottage, made almost melodic by the calming haze of spirits, food, and firelight. The very walls exuded an air of inviting comfort.

With a needle and thread in one hand, and a slice of fruitcake in the other, Roland felt a profound contentment warm his heart. Though he had a deep respect for honoring Christ's birth, he felt that family was the true reason to celebrate...and right now, surrounding by his large, gregarious family, he could think of no place he would rather be.

I always felt the Roland was a bit of a family man, and would enjoy the holidays for that reason...the food's always nice, too. :)

Mincemeat pie was a popular holiday dish. In the Middle Ages, it was typically made with chopped beef or meat, dried fruit, sugars, spices, and nuts.

The 'warmed milk and spiced wine' is posset, a popular drink. Milk was heated, and wine, beer, or citrus juice was added to curdle it a bit. It could be sweetened or spiced.

I'll see you tomorrow! Remember to review!