Samurai Jack Saves Christmas

by Sassyfeatherfrost

As Samurai Jack or Gonkuro celebrates the new year with his family, he recalls how he visited the north pole and saved it from its downtrodden state.

3. Chapter 1

"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world and behold everything is softer and more beautiful." – Norman Vincent Peale

Part 1

The lone samurai warrior was softly yet desperately trending through the great windy northern wintery environment somewhere in the northern latitudes in his baby blue long wintery fur coat with accompanying parka like hood, which he recently purchased at a trading post. What lonely yet striking coldness he felt as he undauntedly strolled through the snow. He briefly glanced around at times and soberly reflected on his almost hopeless firm determination in trying to find a way back to the past. How futile it been after those few long years of struggle. What longing and desire he felt for the time and place he originally came from. Though at this time he wasn't particularly looking for a time portal, including how he earlier asked at the trading post if there was anything in the area he could go back in time and the answer he got back was no. So, he struggled aimlessly in the sad and nearly overwhelming isolated northern cold. However, at one point he started to rather feel feeble and getting to the point of being truly overwhelmed as he happened to feel fatigued while trying to climb a mountain overpass. What a firm struggle it was in moving on with an urgent boldness yet the advantaging windy cold seemed to grabbed him more tightly in its grip. He nearly was in a fainted state before the peculiar sight of a couple of head lights seemingly flashed on him.

He was inquired by one of the drivers who was a dimmed and blurry sight to the samurai, "Who are you and what side are you on?"

The samurai at first responded with suffering silence before wearily responding, "They call me Samurai Jack and I am a just man who sides against Aku and is trying to find a way back in time to try to defeat Akuforever."

Then the samurai faded out of consciousness. Being stunned, one of the drivers decided to compassionately take (along with the other driver's aide) to bring the stranger in his own peppermint striped sleigh mobile to try to being the unconscious stranger back to their home base. As they soberly turned and drove back, the one who was carrying the faded stranger thought in hopeful wonder who the mysterious stranger was.

It turned out the samurai was in a semi-conscious state with the driver noticing it hearing the semi-muffled voice of the samurai stranger inquired politely, "So who are you? Where are you taking me?"

The driver didn't response right away but managed to response, "I am Kris Kringle, one of the elf patrols of the North Pole and I am taking you to the center city of North Pole country or Santaville. Won't you mind being there?" We don't mean to harm you, seeing how you apparently seemed a good, harmless fellow. We decided to take you in for your sake and I been thinking how you probably should stay with us for a while so as to rejuvenate yourself before traveling onwards. As we could use some seasonal hospitality to give."

Samurai Jack suspiciously asked, "I hope you are trustworthy and genuine in what you said."

The driver chuckled and responded, "Yes certainly, as you will see and everything will be taken care of."

Jack sat there in thoughtful silence as the drivers wind on through the storming wind in a northwest direction and wonder how he luckily went this far. He also happened to notice how his driver was wearing a red and white stripped helmet along with likewise patterned defense uniform. The driver also happened to be of small to medium height though wasn't as tall as the imposing samurai. Jack glanced the other driver was shorter than his own driver. He also saw his own driver have a white beard while the other driver spotted a brown beard. Jack felt a spark of hope within himself and gave a small smile. He felt appreciative for being rescued like this.

Some time later Jack thought he could discern a lighten town a near distance in front of them. Shortly after his first glance he felt some liking towards it. When they got even closer, Jack felt more intrigued by the now closed sight. They arrived in front of a tall sealed red and white stripped gate that was guarded and monitored by a couple of guards at posts above. Jack watched as his driver looked at something on his right wrist that then put up a screen and with him talking to the person on the screen about finding a stranded soul and asking permission to bring it in, including showing the screen watch at the samurai. After giving more persuading information pertaining to the rescued soul to the person on screen, the driver was able to be granted permission to enter in with the rescued samurai. The screen then flicked off and the gate opened for them as they next went into the guarded town. As they went through town, Jack really was now engrossed and cheered by the charming wintery city he was in. A glowing aura it gave and what intriguing decorthe shops and residences had. What nice looking mistletoe and holly he saw and how he could sense feeling the stars above. At one point, he thought he saw a couple of elvish people attempting to kiss under some mistletoe. He also observed candles, some surrounded by holly, with golden reddish fire at their tips in some windows. He saw some children playing, including ice skating. He happened to hear bells rang and some of the local people would glance him being the obvious foreign stranger he was.

Meanwhile a shadowed lonely, elderly woman wearing a dark dress was sitting besides a window looking down at the bright vibrant yet windy scene beneath her. She was looking from high above and the fireplace elsewhere in the room was glowing. Regardless of the cheer going on she peculiarly felt lonesome and longing for her late beloved as she glances out. He had been on her mind for a long time and especially around Christmas time, the holiday which her late beloved significantly promoted. Reminiscing him, she felt jealous at no longer being able to embrace him unlike many others with their significant others. It was especially hard to get him off her mind at this rime of year with her permanent grief for him being more bearable the rest of the year. She deeply signed in this sad loneliness as she glanced around the mostly plain room. She as usual suffers an essential part of her being long cut off. But shortly therefore, her door open with a servant of hers now standing in its entrance. Being caught by the sight, she could sense something urgent was going to be unfolded. She turn straight towards him, willing to hear and ask, "what is the matter?" The servant clears his throat before telling her: "Madame, a couple of north patrollers happened to find and discover a mysterious yet friendly stranger who is supposedly called Samurai Jack, which is known to be a person that is wanted by Aku yet alleged to have done kind, heroic deeds as well. One of the north patrollers who founded him request youmeet him so to approve of him. So, widow Claus, will you be willing to give him an audience?"

The older woman let it all sink in what was just said before she managed to reply, "So it may be."

Her servant nodded and turned back as s he continued to be in a reflective thinking position including thinking about her upcoming visitor.

Jack and the drivers finally arrived at a gated mansion where Jack's driver went through a similar protocol that he did before entering through. Jack happens to notice a statute of a jolly older bearded man riding a sleigh being pulled by several reindeer. One in the very front had his nose painted red. They parked besides the entrance and shortly stayed there before a short manservant of some kind came out and beckon them on inside. When Jack went inside, he noticed how plainer the interior decoration contrasted with the surrounding township. He took off his fur coat with his revealed white kimono and katana impressed everyone that was in the room. He sat down on a red couch in a parlor in between his north patrol were seated across from a green couch that had a dark clad, composed older matronly woman, with a curious gaze, sitting on it. The woman soon asked, "So, are you the storied Samurai Jack?"

The Samurai next soberly replied, "Yes I am."

Right after that, he went up and respectfully bowed towards her, especially how he noticed he had forgotten to do so before sitting back down. The matron looked mildly impressed by his action. She continued, "Really good to see you then, especially how I had heard some vague rumor over the past few years of a white clad heroic figure who had fought against Aku's tyranny and helped others on the way. Even though I know you are wanted by him I nonetheless will shelter you in this isolated place will give you asylum here. I will be willing to assist you anyway you wish, especially how I sympathized with your struggle against him."

Jack replied, "Glad to know you do not have any hostile intentions it seems though I wonder who you are and what is this place by the way?" I even wonder if I be safe from Aku and his minions here?" Also, if I have anything for you to assist me in, you can try to build me a time machine if you have the available resources to do so."

There was a pause before the matron responded, "This city is called Clausville, and I am Mary Holly Claus or Mrs. Claus, widow of the legendary gift-giving Santa Claus. I think you will be safe from Aku of course because this part of the world including this city is isolated and we firsthand had placed an invincible protection shield over this city along with nearby communities which consists of our 'Santa Claus nation'. It helps us remain unseen from outside forces. As for fulfilling your request, maybe our elven military scientists can try to create one for , it may take some time, and in the meantime, you are welcome to stay here and enjoy the happy festivities of this place. Anyhow, what's your background, especially how it seems notable how you need a time portal to accomplish something?"

Jack sighed before he told his story of how he came to be, which brought a sympathetic look from Mrs. Claus. Which, after he finished telling his background story, Mrs. Claus empathetically responded, "Yes, I do understand being unjustly damaged by Aku. In fact, my late husband and the original Christmas spirit is not here because of the horrid Aku."

Jack sympathetically frowned and asked, "What happened?"

Mrs. Claus looked slightly wanner before she responded, "A long time ago, me and my late husband blissfully lived and ran a large toy workshop business around here where he once a year, with an elf assistant, would go on a flying sleigh, that was held by reindeer, to give toys to children all around the world. He did so out of sheer goodwill and in homage to the giving of the magi and his predecessor, Saint Nicholas. I personally would assist him including feeding his reindeer, take care of his red suit, gave consulted advice, etc. Of course, I would make some delicious cookies which I was famous for. A golden age it was and what a merry person I was alongside my jolly husband. What an excellent man he was. Such a blessed sight it was in seeing the cheerful elves work on making toys and seeing the hopeful red glow of Rudolph's red nose. Until one fateful day, Aku suddenly came along and unfortunately destroyed part of the north pole. Distressing sorrow we felt including ho my dear late husband got to personallyconfront him, which involved arguing against doing Christmas Aku's way in exchange for continuing his life and work. But in a most unfortunate matter, Aku won his side and Santa was destroyed, which lead us in such a shocking emotional, mournful wreck with significant physical damage. Right after that, Aku teased us as his destructive insect robots came to try to destroy use with solemn gloom. But miraculously, we were able to defeat Aku's wrath with some limited technology we had. A fierce, dramatic, even grave battle it was. Eventually, after witnessing the demise of much of his droid army and with me pleading with him, Aku decided to leave us alone. Since then, we provided ourselves with mass military and shield protection in case Aku decided to confront us again. How every able-bodied prime aged adult male serves in the military at least serves part-time. But since then, we basically kept going and turn to other things for our livelihood like tourism, fishing, ice breaking, and only using the toy factories for local use. Though until recently, we had overall been in a lonesome somber mood due to the demise of Santa and Christmas. However, we had heard that some people continued to secretly celebrateChristmas, and that even Aku supposedly commemorates Christmas in his own way but prefers to call it Xmas. Not to forget to mention how almost all of Santa's reindeer except for Rudolph were annihilated and how glad that he's still around. My late husband and his terminated reindeers' remains are interred underneath that statute of them in the front area as you probably saw on the way here. I fully never recovered from his loss as you can observe from my dark clothing though I recently gotten use to my loss more. In fact, I like you staying here for a while so to uplift my people's spirits more as a beacon of hope you are reputed to be. Also, interesting to try to get to know an exotic person like you. How beneficial I see in supporting your goal in going back to the past and defeat the most murderous Aku so to prevent his monstrosity from ever happening, including hoping that Christmas will return back to normal."

There was some moments of silence. Jack soberly responded, "I sympathized with you very much and sorrowfully understand the hideous cruelty Aku has done to others including to me. I be most welcome to stay here while you make a time machine that will take me to the past. This mysterious exotic place I am is indeed a pleasantly hospitable to be in. I hope I will enjoy my stay and you all be genuinely trustworthy."

There was some staring silence before Mrs. Claus brighten up and said, "Your presence remains me how we should brighten up this lonesome household once again as I felt being in the mood again after a long mournful pause. Maybe you can help out, our dear Samurai Jack?"

Jack momentarily replied, "Ah…ok."

Mrs. Claus enthusiastically nodded and further said, "Especially how I long felt low in spirit

Shortly thereafter, a group of elven servants entered in with cardboard boxes, put down the boxes, and opened them to reveal some stunning Christmas decorations. Jack felt impressed by the sight including when he helped decorate the living room the rest of the household in a bright matter. That included putting up the ornaments on the previously burned tree in a corner of the parlor. Seeing all the decoration made Jack inquire about what decorations they were putting up and the answers he got made the decorations more intriguing to him. An overall experience it was though they had to put them up in a steady, delicate matter. How he observed Mrs. Claus was brighten up with an increased eager confidence. That was just the start of Christmas and Mrs. Claus herself being renewed; with her having a cheerier attitude, cooking more, and had some servants sing carols at times. How Jack felt things gradually lighten up as a result. Seeing the finished result of her restored household made Jack in awe of the exotic and pretty, elaborate decorations that added to the formal yet warm atmosphere of the place.

So, a week and a half passed, and though he felt a bit shy being a fish out of water staying at a guest at Mrs. Claus's mansion, he had an enjoyable time. He memorably enjoyed Mrs. Claus's delicious cookies that were laid out in the parlor table which she began to bake again after personally rewarming up. Interesting, intricate designs they had though some had a frosted sprinkled look. One time, he sneakily ate a few too much even. He also befriended Kris Kringle who was one of the north pole patrollers who discovered him. Kris acted as a guide to him and befriended him. Kris got to escort him through the streets and places of the town itself. Jack felt in awe of the magnificent beauty of the decorations and (at times) elaborate lights. How interesting and generous the shops were they went into, including a gingerbread house shop where they sold gingerbread and Christmas ornaments. The latter Jack was further awed and amazed by the colorfulness and beautiful diversity of the displayed they were one of the most pretty he has seen. They didn't get to buy anything other than purchasing a couple of gingerbread treats for themselves. They went to an interesting seafood restaurant where jack ordered sushi to his own delight. They also took a tour through the military headquarters and stations where they watched the merry elves make things, including trying to create the time machine, and do their duty.

Jack, when they were at one of the stations, inquired Kris, "How are they are doing on my time machine?"

Kris replied, "All I know so far that they are still assembling parts for it and planning it. How you should be patient Jack."

Jack responded, "I was just wondering."

Sometimes Jack and Kris lightheartedly played in the snow including with Kris's family. Kris did, at least one time, brought Jack to his resident for a family party, which was a townhouse that had a warm, intriguing, homey, and decorated interior. It was good meeting Kris's family though it was unfortunate to find out that Kris is a widower himself as his dear wife was one of the elves that were killed when Aku savaged the north pole. Jack couldn't help but frown and feel sorrow for him. But nonetheless had a pleasant, uplifting time visiting at his townhome. He felt weary at first because he didn't know them but grew to like them. What merrymaking and content socialization they did with each other, including how the kids had a good time playing with Jack. They enthusiastically played outside in the snow with Jack. They taught Jack some snow fighting tricks with the kids played with him in a mischievous yet silly matter at times. Meeting Jack was an exotic experience for them, and they got to somewhat inquired about him. They learned some interesting facts about him and his culture, and felt sympathy towards him. Overall, it was an enjoyable and instigative experience hanging out with Kris Kringle including being able to see the merry and friendly attitude the elves had. Jack seems most impressed by how it seems in addition to their good hospitality seems to have a persistent cheerful attitude of care and loving kindness that endured through Aku's afflicted darkness (including seeing Mrs. Claus's renewed positive attitude reflecting this). But otherwise, he was ok, as he a lot of the time just stayed in his homey guest room where he often looked out the window and meditated. Some of the elven passerbys curiously yet enjoyably looked at him and Jack assumed that at least some of them probably purposely walked by to see him. He also had some elves in the house curiously to see him. He generally enjoyed peeking outside including seeing some playing out in the snow. At one time, he was offered by an elven servant to read to some elven children down in the , feeling some reluctance, took upon the opportunity though he really came to relish it with him talking to the children afterwards. He realized how he was seen as and even dreaded as a celebrity or hero including being an object of curiosity among the elves.

One day, while he happens to have been contemplating in his room, his door was knocked.

Jack said, "Come in."

The door opened and there was Kris Kringle. Kris solemnly told him, "Hey there Jack, I would like to break to you some somber news- they just cannot build you a time machine because the parts were not available, and it sincerely seems we really couldn't build a time machine for you after all. I hope you don't act berserk over this."

Jack demonstrated a solemn expression. Jack next got up and sorrowfully said, "So, my quest continues."

Yet, as he was halfway through the room on the way out the door, Kris next, with more cheerful overtones, added, "Well, the good news is that in the discussion we had about failing to create a time portal for you, one of the supervisors that overhead the project itself suggested that we instead have you as a mascot against Aku. We will make you a mascot against Aku by giving hope through giving children presents all around the world even at a risk."

Jack suddenly stopped and turn towards Kris to face him in surprise before curiously saying back, "What do you mean?"

Kris responded, "That means you come along with me or Santa as an assistant elf to bring toys at Christmas Eve to all of the children of the earth. Of course, we until recently, and you probably think as well, that it is an absurd thing to do, especially considering Aku's wrath. But we are doing it because we came to decide how you are being virtually a poster boy for hope including even uplifting our spirits think we can do a protest counteract thing to try to further uplift the spirits of others badly affected by Aku. How we want to inspire hope to others."

After a pause, Jack asked with concern, "But how we could accomplish this without being risked killed off by Aku or his minions? I just don't see the good practicality of it."

There was a solemn pause before Kris upliftingly responded, "Yes we do know the risk, but we had affordably had a protection shield of some kind to shelter us and of course you have your magic shield of yours."

Another pause happens, in which Jack soberly pondered what he was offered. It was a struggle to make especially in the light of the risk it proposed. Though he came to sympathized with Kris's proposal as he in turn sympathized with being a beacon of uplifting hope and inspiration against Aku; how he had beforehand heroically and selflessly saved others even at the risk of passing his opportunity to go back to the past. He especially compassionately loved others enough to want to help them out of Aku's encompassing malevolent dominion. So why not take a heroic morale boost opportunity to, in selfless love, help inspire hope against the horrific Aku he so dreads and who had cause great harm toward others including himself? So, relying on good faith and trust towards his newfound friend, Jack replied, "Yes, I am willing to follow on your offer and hope for the best including hoping we will have most adequate protection and safety during it."

Kris smiley replied, "So count you in then."

Jack nodded with Kris said, "Alrighty then, I long with others will keep you up on it and we be ready within a week or so. You probably will have to learn your role and can witness our preparation if you like."

Kris then mutually bowed with Jack before he got out of the room. With Kris now being gone, what just happen gave Jack more stuff to contemplate including hoping the endeavor will honestly succeed in a positive way. For he surely did not take up the offer for it to probably turning out fruitless.

Some time afterwards, Jack noticed how more boisterous, bright, along with being in more uplifting cheerful spirits the social atmosphere was. Jack witnessed some of the preparations and was given instructions in his role as Santa. What hopeful spirits the elves were. Jack felt proud of the elves in their eager role in retaliating against Aku. Jack gave some encouragement as the elves productively rolled on. During this time, Jack actively participated more in the local community including being shown some of the outlining villages. An overall adventurous and festive experience it was seeing those villages. He was shown some respect because of his role as fighter of Aku and therefore their defender. He played with some children including having a clumsy time ice skating with them. One time a teenaged elf boy came up to him being curious not just who Jack was but about what samurai were and especially his peculiar weapon. The teenaged elf got an informative and good lesson on samurai and bushido. As a result, the teenaged elf had more respect for him including bowing goodbye towards him. During one of his village trips, Jack happened to encounter a peculiar yet sage wise woman. She gave him some consoling, sagacious advice in relation to his dilemma and upcoming mission.

Her advice was, "The good you will do will equally return back. Christmas is a state of a choice of mind including how along with persistence will always led your way in your goal."

She next gave him an amulet that had an appearance of a beautiful white intricated snowflake. She claimed it will help protect him against threats on his delivery including from Aku's forces.

Jack asked her, "Will it specifically protect me against Aku as well?"

The wise woman responded, "I think so."

Jack remarked back, "This remains me of how some priests back in my homeland would give people amulets and favors at times. Thank you by the way."

The wise woman responded, "You are most welcome my dear."

Sometime later, Jack privately asked for his ancestors help in his forthcoming Santa delivery. He therefore felt more confident in doing his morale mission to be.

Finally, the day of the launch arrived. Jack was given a Santa suit, hat, and a fake beard to wear. The Santa suit had an accompanied holiday decorated katana holder. He was assigned an elf to assist and guide him, which turned out to be a nephew of Kris Kringle, Alfred Kringle. Alfred himself was a good, civil, and helpful elf towards Jack.

When Jack firsthand was introduced to Alfred at the mansion by Mrs. Claus, Alfred politely bowed towards him and said, "Alfred Kringle at your service."

Jack smiled and had instant confidence in trusting Alfred as his co-helper.

Jack and Alfred looked out at the cheering crowd as they approach the Santa sleigh. They were thinking how they hope things will turn out fine. The new Santa sleigh, which Jack was shown beforehand, was well equipped with hidden protection and weapon gear including an invisible protection shield. It also had the ability to be invisible and undetected. The sleigh had mostly robotic reindeer or reindeer droids except for Rudolph at the lead. Jack got to gently pet Rudolph and greet him including being the first time he met the storied figure. Rudolph in return politely yet genuinely smiled. Jack felt relieved but didn't completely distill the worry of the possibility of Aku's forces being more powerful enough to destroy it and him. The launcher event was happening at a traditional launch place somewhere near the Santa Claus's mansion's backyard. Widow Claus happen to be standing on a stage while Kris happens to be in the crowd cheering along with it. Shortly after, Jack and Alfred went on the Santa sleigh, Widow Claus went on it to announce from her speaker: "Now, before Samurai Jack and Alfred Kringle be able to go on with their Santa delivery, first an elf music group had agreed to play an inspiration song for us that will convey the grand meaning of this landmark Santa delivery, and how it can positively motivate us all. Remember, the true and kind selfless spirit of Christmas lies within your heart. So now, I will present the new and rising elf group, the Dashers."

Next, behind her was now shined the rock style synthesized band, The Dashers, while Widow Claus as greatly dimmed. The song had dramatic overtones and was overall a moving piece. The song was quite heart touching and brought some like Jack to tears. The song was captivating, catchy, yet emotional. The song was about how joy and hope are essential parts of the holiday, but unfortunately the rest of the world hasn't had it in a long time because of the great nefarious stumbling block of Aku and his atrocities (and how the world is suffering because of it). How the elves should know it, yet hope had arisen again through Samurai Jack, who in turn was going to deliver a silver lining this Christmas. Yet, how the benevolent spirit of Christmas can be felt inside and spread out. How the elves can go out and try to spread out giving and Christmas cheer in a dark world savaged by Aku. How people should know about Christmas once again and its grand joy and giving spirit. Lastly, how there's still hope for the future and Aku's defeat in favor of a much happier and greater world. How the living memory of Santa Claus can be sincerely felt through the spirit of giving and kindness as well. At last, it was time for the expedition to be launched. There was a countdown before Jack himself felt nervous at first by the launch but soon overcame it, as he felt exultation by it though Alfred seemingly felt nervous all the way through until being in the air in which he rather felt fine and calm. The crowd below them hopefully cheered them highly along including The Dashers. Widow Claus was one of the apparent few still in a calm, collected state but smiled in appreciation for them and their mission. Jack and Alfred now felt willing to accomplish his mission against the risky odds. He felt willing to defile Aku and the great malevolent pollution he had created along with trying to uplift the spirits of the suffering that were suppressed under Aku.

Two mixed race looking children, a dark-haired girl and a red hair boy were sleeping in their bunk bed in their rundown apartment. The girl decided to go down the bunkbed ladder to go to the bathroom across the hall. As the weary girl was halfway down the hallway, she stopped in her way because she thought she glanced a very peculiar sight in the nearby living room. From her careful observation, she thought she saw a man in a red suit with furred edges, black boots, and red cap. He happened to be putting something in the living room. Feeling bewildered, the girl decided to walk into the living room to investigate who it was. Mysteriously, when she arrived in the living room, the odd stranger was gone. However, she saw a bewildering sight of expensive looking toys in the living room's center! She felt startled and surprise as she stood there staring at the almost unbelievable sight. She eventually decided to swiftly go back into her room to awake and tell her brother about the sight. She stood there at the foot of the bunkbed as she shouted out to her brother, "Kaden, come wake up! I see a peculiar sight of a pile of toys!"

Kaden woke up and faced his sister as he responded, "What?! His sister nodded as she ran out of the bedroom with her brother following her. When they arrived at the sight of the living room toy pile, they curiously wondered as they shortly went to play with the toys. The girl picked up a chubby doll while her brother picked up an action figure. They played with those items a bit before their jaded, gruff father spotted from the hallway what was happening and went into the living room. He looked amazed at what he saw. The children turned to look him as his daughter tried to explain, "I think a mysterious stranger in a red suit and hat put those toys here for some reason. Me and Kaden has no fault in it. Their father stood still in stunned silence. Upon glancing at a white robbed oriented action figure in his son's hand, he began to have his own suspension. He smiled and felt uplifted as he remarked, "It must be the samurai!"

They all at that moment felt an uplifting glow amid their dire situation. The father soberly exclaimed, "If only my slain wife could see this."

A middle-aged couple were slumbering in their castle bedroom with the only light being the light of the full moon and stars. A silhouette of a sleigh and accompanying reindeer passed by the moon for a moment. Shortly afterwards, a grizzly man yawn, stretch, and got out of bed. He further stretches and went to the bathroom in his weary state. While in the bathroom, he thought he heard a thump on his roof. It startled him and made him think of suspicious thoughts. Right when he got out of the bathroom, he thought he could faintly hear someone in his house. This made him even more suspicious, and he stood there for a long minute to listen carefully to anymore questionable sounds. He didn't hear ant further sounds yet the sounds he heard so far made him decide to take out his special sword from its sheath which hanged besides the wall near his bed and venture out of his bedroom. He roamed the hallway before going into the two bedrooms of his daughters. For the man had a lot of cherished daughters including one on the way. When inspecting and lancing around in their bedrooms, he looked at his cherished daughters with love. How he was glade to see them alive and well as he glanced on their sweet sleeping heads in their beds. Thinking about his great love for his daughters motivated him to explore more of the hallway and its rooms. It turns out that he saw nothing suspicious in any place he checked up there. After completing his checking, he thoughts he heard some strange movementdownstairs in the great hall. He nextdecided, still within the motivating love for is daughters, to swiftly go downstairs to the great hallway. He strongly decided to see who it was and would deal with the mysterious intruder accordingly. When he finally arrived downstairs to the great hallway, he with astonishment saw who the intruder was.

The young oriental man in a Santa suit and his accompanying eld were startled at the sight of the assumed head of the household staring back at them halfway across the room. There was a few minutes of very awkward silence, with the Santa suit intruder and the man of the household particularly staring a each other with gradual recognition. The man on the stone staircase then asked, "Are you my buddy Jack? And who is that little sissy in jammies?"

The pair below look stunned, with the elf assistant being embarrassed. The oriental Santa man, with a serious countenance, soberly responded, "Yes, I am Samurai Jack, your old friend. This person here is an elf assistant of mine named Alfred Kringle."

Alfred next asked Jack's boorish friend, "Who are you by the way? Also please try to be more considerate."

Jack's old friend looked a bit embarrassed but managed to reply back with a calmer tone, "I am Angus of clan Abercrombie but I am widely known as the Scotsman. I wonder what brings you here to me castle? It looks like you're playing Santa! What are you're wearing on your neck by the way?"

Jack precisely responded, "To make a long story short, I happened to have been rescued in the north pole by the late Santa's elves. After being given hospitality there, I came to partner with them in trying to put a dent against Aku through lifting his suppressed people's morale by giving them Christmas presents. In speaking of which, me and my elf assistant have to soon leave to continue our busy night route in our mission. This necklace you are probably referring to is a protection amulet given by a respected female village elder back from the north pole."

Angus said, "A nice amulet though I do not take such things too seriously."

Jack said, "Well, that is your prerogative."

The Scotsman'scountenance uplifted as he said, "Okay, but I have some precious daughters at home that would sure appreciate those gifts you're giving out. Not to forget to mention that my wife is pregnant and would appreciate some baby toys if you have any. I am also proud of what you are doing laddie, especially in this light of the fact I remember being sadden by the holidays being greatly reduced because of Aku's termination of Santa. The good ole holidays surely have felt quite empty like a hole afflicted by a bullet with no Santa. Also,in speaking of which, maybe I should go with you to support your mission."

This offer surprised Jack and Alfred, who had to think about what he was offering them. A few long minutes of startled silence followed, with Jack having a deep puzzled look with Angus eagerly looking on.

Jack earnestly asked, "Why do you think it is important for you to go with us anyway?"

The Scotsman replied, "Because I loved you very much and feel a debt to you. I especially support your mission against the scallywag Aku and how Christmas just isn't the same as it should be. I appreciate your help and I have something certainly against Aku too, especially with me being on his most wanted list akin to Jack. How I also appreciate my family being given Christmas joy by you."

What the Scotsman just said amazed Jack. After giving in to some more thought, Jack fondly bowed and said, "I am grateful for what you said, for you have been a good aid for me as well. What dedication I see in you and perhaps you could be an extra helping hand and supporter."

The Scotsman looked happy and next went upstairs. This sudden act puzzled Jack and his assistant before the Scotsman came back down a few minutes later in different attire. His attire instead of tartan pajamas now consisted of tartan style winter wear with an accompanied kilt and tam o' shanter. He had his sword and a bagpipe with him. This sight boggled Jack and Alfred. How this was unlike the attire that Jack was used to seeing his old friend in.

Jack curiously asked his old friend, "Why bring a bagpipe?"

Angus defensively replied, "Because I think you laddies could both use some refreshing background music to help alert the wee youngins."

This baffled the samurai Santa (in which he sighed) which made him of a compromise with Angus, "Maybe as we ride away tonight from this place you can play on your bagpipe." Angus formed a look of dismay as he inquired, "Why not at any other time on the journey?"

This remark gave jack an annoyed look he decided to compromise even further, with the Scotsman, "Okay, you can at least play a couple of more times as long as you ask me permission beforehand. But remember, this mission is supposed to be quiet, especially how we do not want any undue attention from Aku's minions. Also how giving like this just not good if it is boosted about in the rooftops."

Angus with acceptance yet also feeling somewhat reluctant responded, "Alright wee laddie."

Alfred then, with concern, asked the Scotsman, "What about your wife and children's concern about your disappearance?"

Angus replied, "I put a note on the bed besides my wife justifying where I had been, so that had been taken care of."

The Santa samurai next said, "Now then, we go on to pick out your household gifts before we diligently go on with our mission. May you help us put up those gifts."

The Scotsman nodded as he put down his bagpipe to help pick suitable gifts for his daughters and upcoming baby. However, right before he proceeded on with that task, he remarked to Jack, "Nice to see you in good shape since the last time I saw you."

Jack chuckled as Alfred curiously asked, "What do you mean?"

Jack, feeling in a more uplifted mood, responded, "I will explain later that inside joke."

Alfred, nonetheless, still looked a bit baffled. As they approached the plainly decorated Christmas tree, Alfred remarked to Angus, "So it seems you still keeping up with the Christmas spirit, regardless?"

The Scotsman replied, "Yes, as I and my clad in some way still try to commemorate Christmas. Unfortunately, there is no gift giving because there is no Santa. I just tell my girls how the tree and décor commemorate a seasonal spirit we should try to celebrate. However, that will change tonight."

Jack then inquires the Scotsman, "So, do you like to talk about your children?"

Angus responded, "Well, maybe not now, especially as you said we need to get on with this mission."

Jack nodded and firmly replied, "Right."

After finishing their duty, they all went up onto the sleigh and went on with their Santa mission. The Scotsman managed to squeeze in besides Alfred on the left. It felt a little insecure with that Scotsman besides them, but they eventually got used to it. Shortly thereafter, the Scotsman started to play a Christmas themed bagpipe melody as they flew over the Scottish Highlands. It was a short yet raw, loud, and energetic piece that diverted Jack and Alfred. Jack and Alfred gave thanks to the Scotsman for playing the piece with Jack additionally remarking, "A good, nice piece there."

The Scotsman respectfully bowed and replied, "You are welcome me laddies. When can I play it again?"

Jack responded, "Perhaps later."

Angus soberly responded, "Okay."

So, they went onward in their continuing journey around the world in playing Santa. Jack had some reluctance at first in having the Scotsman being a part of their force, yet some intuition was telling him what a benefit he is going to be regardless of any outright, disbelieving weariness Jack had about his Scottish friend coming with him on this Santa gift giving journey.

The nightly Santa journey throughout much of the world was adventurous, fulfilling, and uplifting. The jingle of the sleigh bells jingled as they approached a whole variety of locations across the globe to distribute. Santa' sleigh was like a pretty and bright sight to behold, both figuratively and literally. Mostly, they did it quietly with nobody usually noticing. However, at times there was some people, especially children, that would peek out the window or personally witness 'Santa' giving out presents in their residence or in other times, the center of the settlement. 'Santa' usually stealthily went away before he could be noticed. The Scotsman occasionally was allowed to play, 'We Wish you a Merry Christmas' on his bagpipe. One time, when 'Santa' looked behind himself because he felt someone was watching him saw instead a stocking. Wondering about the sight, Alfred explained to Jack, "In the old days stockings were usually hung for Santa to put gifts in."

Jack asked, "So I can put gifts in it?"

Alfred eagerly nodded and so Jack decided to put some goodies in it. Jack with his Santa crew visited some familiar places that Jack himself probably have been to before. One time, they stopped by a city near the north which seemed like the city where Jack hanged out with some gangsters. He tried to glance some possible sighting of his estranged gangster buddies but didn't see any. At another time, they happened to be in a Germanic village which eerily looked like the place where he one time saved children from Aku's influence. He thought he caught a glance of the blue hair teenaged girl along with other but wasn't completely sure. There was a medieval style village they went to where Jack just thought he once founded a nearby stinking dragon for the village. Jack went to a futuristic city where he remembered finding a family of his own ethnicity there. He even tried to find their resident, and when he assumedly founded their resident, he put some gifts in the place including a figurine of himself. He went in what maybe the city of the Spartans whom he helped. He thought he saw the ruler glancing out at him from his palace window, but Jack didn't have the time to really notice. Jack stopped near a lagoon and put some stuff into a hole to the dismay of Alfred and Angus. They both wondered why he was doing that. Jack justified it by explaining to them that one time he chased a poor girl down a rabbit hole like this into a strange underground city. The girl who stole his kimono because she lacked and putting down those presents down that hole made him think with tender pity of people down there like the girl. Alfred and Angus with some disbelief accepted Jack's explanation. They even stopped at a village who to their surprise had a statute of Samurai Jack. They stared at it and admired at it for a time. It seemed deja vu and surprising for jack to see a statute of himself. Regardless, he proceeded to go on with putting gifts around the statute with his crew's assistant. As they next left to go on with their mission, Jack thought he saw the familiar yet peculiar sight of a man with a fake Egyptian beard coming out of a hut. Odd to see again one of the cursed man ho he fought on a wintery isle at a tower. However, he brushed it aside. Jack even went to give gifts to the woolies whom he freed but didn't disturb them otherwise.

Santa Jack at another time stopped by a familiar Japanese style mansion. Jack felt good as he curiously went into the place. Alfred and Angus wondered about the place with them inquiring what it was.

Jack simply told them, "It is a long story."

The place looked prim, tidy, and goodboth in and out. Jack even attempted to see the girl who he helped. It turns out she was a now older and sleeping sight to behold. Regardless, he proceeded to go on as usual.

Of course, prior to taking the Scotsman with them, they stopped by Aku City where the occurrence of the poor widower and his kids discovered their gifts. The Santa crew attempted to be more stealthily discreet concerning that it was Aku's capital. But Santa Jack on one of their last stops through that city saw an impoverished family homeless in an alley corner. With compassionate concern, Jack decided to lower the sleigh towards that pitiful family. Alfred was concern with what he was doing with him asking Jack, "What are you're doing?"

Jack was silent and Alfred respected his answer. Jack took a few gifts from his bag and stealthily gave them away to the sleeping alien family whose shelter consisted of a few cardboard boxes with an accompanying fading bonfire. Instead of feeling resentful by the sight, Alfred felt touched with pity. Jack moved on and the elf assistant smiled wit heartwarming appreciation. How he looked impressed by jack's extra selfless act.

The Scotsman being with them turned out alright. Angus basically behaved himself but occasionally made some impulsive remarks like, for instance, remarking on the Samurai Jack statute looking like Samurai Jack was in his granny's pajamas once again. The remark made Jack and Alfred somewhat embarrassed with Angus respectfully apologizing to them as a result. The Scotsman did help distribute gifts with jack a few times. Likewise, Alfred occasionally directlyaccompanied jack on his gift giving.

Luckily, Santa Jack and his force were safe and sound, saved for two incidents. One of them was in Aku City when a suspicious robotic bounty hunter happened to notice them and attempted to shoot them. Fortunately, Jack used a force shield bubble to protect them and the bounty hunter in turn exploded as the blast from his gun reflected towards him from the sleigh's protection shield. The other time was when the Scotsman was with them. They were going back to the sleigh after supplying gifts at a high and snowy mountain village when they were suddenly intruded by a big abominable snowman bounty hunter who seem intended on attacking them. Angus came to their defense by threatening it with his sword and blurting out an insult towards it. The creature continued to try to attack but the Scotsman thrash it with his sword which scared away the creature. Jack and Alfred were impressed and thanked him, with Angus accepting their praise. This heroic act made Jack and Alfred think more positively on the worth of having the Scotsman with them after all. Angus played a Christmas melody on the way out. Regardless, the Santa crew could not strongly foresee the greater force of evil and danger that lied ahead for them.

Meanwhile, a couple of scientists went into Aku's lair. Aku was sitting on his throne reading from a script. Aku next looked away from his script and noticed those visitors. He inquired of them, "Why are you here uninvited?"

One of the scientists responded, "We from our apartment thought we noticed the odd sight of a flying sleigh with reindeer."

Aku was shocked as he responded, "What?! That can't be happening! I killed off Santa a long time ago!"

The other scientist then said, "We seriously, while visiting each other in our special resident, happen to glance a flying sleigh off in the distance. I know it's unbelievable, but we can't deny it with our eyes. You should check out your all-seeing eye portal to prove our claim."

Aku reluctantly said, "Alright, but if you are proven liars then you will get it, understand?"

The scientists nervously nodded. So, Aku got to open his all-seeing portal to prove the sincerity of his scientists' claims. When Aku finally saw the mysterious flying Santa sleigh that apparently accompanied his top enemies, Samurai Jack and the Scotsman, Aku reacted with frustrating rage. The scientists looked scared. Aku next proclaimed, "This should be stopped! We should try to use the new deadly weapons and machines you had been developing to stop this right away as we can! For nobody should dare defy my authority, especially that foolish samurai and that Scotsman! For this is my own holiday, Aku Day!"

The scientists felt glad that they were lucky to be alive and well. They nodded with Aku in agreement.

Aku then in a sly and fierce matter said, "I will show who is really the boss!"

The Santa crew were eagerly on the way to their final drop off. They know the night will eventually end and wanted to get over with their mission before the shadowy covering of night reclines. Suddenly, the Scotsman said after cautiously glancing around said to Jack, "Hey, I think I see some flying machines nearby!"

Now looking curiously concern, Jack then carefully looked around him. Jack then became bewildered as he now saw in the near distance some flying Japanese rhino style beetle drones who could emulate a deadly fume from their long tip. Alfred turns back and noticed it too. They all were dumbstruck at the sight. They felt like a grave shadow of doom was coming over them. Fortunately, as the flying drones gravely launched their laser blast onto the sleigh, the sleigh itself used its force shield to protect itself and reflected the targeting beams, The laser beams, however, created a disjointing sideway movement that startled the people onboard. The laser beams with their force looked like they might beat down the sleigh. Fortunately, the sleigh retaliated with a missile launcher that aired from the sleigh's back. The missile was able to deal a significant blow at the attacking drones. The sleigh team felt triumphant and for a short yet relieved time the sleigh continued toward its destination unharassed.

But unfortunately, the flying drones managed to regroup with some more reinforcements coming in. The drones were once again flying upon them. This time, they acted more menacing and determined. The sleigh team didn't notice it at first until a hit barely missed their sleigh, which alerted them to the return of the drones. They tried the invisible shield once again, yet the laser hits seemed stronger. The drones got intimately closer to them. All of this really worried the team. The drones eventually got quite close. Jack and Angus even had to fight back with their swords at times. How the sage words of the wise woman motivated Jack in his sleigh was now surrounded by the beetle drones, with some trying to pick at the force shield with their long noses. More missiles launched at them from different places as the beetles attack back through emulating toxic fumes, which luckily didn't affect the sleigh team because of the force shield's protection. However, anyone like with Jack and Angus could use their weapons through the shield. Angus used his shooter feet weapon at times. Alfred felt scared through much of the time. The battling situation was becoming very dire, with the drones struggling to get closer and trying to mess up the sleigh as the team desperately tried to put a defense against them. At this moment, it all seems like a messy catch-22 situation. The result seems desiring yet distance in this despondent and rash struggle. Finally, when the attempted damage by the retaliating dronesseem to about to succeed in seriously destroying the morale and endurance of the sleigh's defense and its team, a big blast from somewhere blown up some flying drones. This surprised the sleigh team and it rebuild their battle confidence, which involved Jack and Angus fighting more fiercely with Alfred taking hold of the sleigh. Alfred also got to initiate more missile attacks. The sleigh crew shortly afterwards behold what had saved them. It turned out to be some reindeer drones! What jubilee they felt knowing that the north pole was aiding them. They continued with renewed optimism in fighting back. How strong and valiant the reindeer drones were in their aide. How immune they were to the beetles' toxic flare. Eventually, there were very few beetle drones remaining and the sleigh crew now felt safe to go on before doing their last attack on the remaining enemy. Jack to his teammates' amazement throw his sword, boomerang style, at the remaining drone attacks. Then Jack and his teammates triumphantly high five each other.

Angus, looking impressed, remarked, "How impressive that was, wee laddie!"

Jack responded, "That shows the impressive benefit of a magic sword like that."

The coast was now clear. They went onto their destination with the army of reindeer drones following them like chaperones. Being in an uplifted mood, Angus asked Jack, "Can I please play my bagpipe once again?"

Jack nodded yes. So, the Scotsman played a triumphant sounding tune of a familiar Christmas melody he thought was appropriate to the occasion. What joy they felt as they hope they all be safe for the rest of their journey. They also felt lucky that all their own transporting reindeer including Rudolph was intact though Rudolph was rather really scared during the whole ordeal regardless of trying to help with the vivid glow of his nose.

Their last destination turns out to be a Polynesian village with torches situated at different places throughout (the reindeer drone escorts stayed high up above). The place looked remotely familiar to Jack. To the sleigh team's bewilderment, there happen to be a crowd of villagers witnessing their descent. When the sleigh finally arrived down, the Santa crew and mutually perplexingly stared with the villagers. The sleigh crew didn't know what to do. Then Jack thought he saw a vaguely recognizable face in the crowd.

The Santa samurai next exclaimed, "Are you that boy I once rescued from that ravaging ninja?"

A handsome teenaged boy with a shark teeth necklace came forward and stared at them with wonder. How he had matured since the last time Jack saw him.

The grown boy curiously asked, "Why are you here? Who are you and what is this? I agree that you look remotely familiar, with me wondering if you are that same hero who rescued our village all those years ago?"

The mysterious Santa stranger then took off his hat and fake beard to reveal that he was indeed that same person. Some in the crowd grasp. Jack next went on, "I'm here to distribute gifts, especially to children, because I am acting as Santa. I am trying to protest against Aku and to raise up the spirits of his oppressed people. Do any of you know of Christmas and Santa in turn?"

The boy and the others nodded no with some exclaiming no out loud. The samurai went onto basically explain what Christmas isincluding the reason why he was substituting for Santa and how part of the true meaning of Christmas involves selfless concern and giving of joy toward others like he is attempting with them. He also gave the sage advice of the north pole wise village woman.

A burly man came up, who was probably the chief, towards the sleigh. He soberly said, "We will accept your gifts, especially because of your previous selfless act of heroism you had done here. We welcome you to stay longer if you like. And who are those two with you by the way?"

Jack replied, "Those people are my elf assistant, Alfred, and my good old friend who volunteered to help out with me, the Scotsman. Thanks for your hospitable offer but I cannot stay. I must go back to the north pole."

The chief then said, "That is alright."

So, Santa Jack and his assistants gave out the last of the gifts including giving the very last Samurai Jack figurine to the boy he had rescued. Even though he was now an adolescent, the gift was seen as a returned souvenir of admiration. The teenaged boy gratefully smiled with Jack appreciatively smiled back. The Scotsman inquired, "So Jack was a hero to you all?"

The boy responded to the Scotsman, "Some years ago our village happened to be attack by a sly ninja and some lobster monsters. I was briefly kidnapped by the ninja himself. The samurai came to our fortunate rescue, and we tried to honor him because of that."

The Scotsman replied, "Oh…. I was at one time rescued my buddy Jack, that warrior that saved you, from a spell casted by some bad sounding sirens! It was an interesting yet strange occurrence."

The teenaged boy looked dazed. Jack saw the tall tower on the beach, where he fought the ninja in, still standing. It looked a bit wrecked but didn't ask about it. Soon thereafter, jack and his assistants said goodbye and went away. While the sleigh lifted away, somebody in the waving crowd shouted out, "Mele Kalikimaka!"

That saying surprise Jack, which sounded like someone suddenly learned to say merry Christmas in their native language. On the way up, Angus told Jack, "Hey maybe we can stay here to see all the curious sights including those wonderous tall, patterned houses."

Jack was stunned as he seriously responded, "We can't as we have to really go back to the north pole."

Angus jovially responded, "Ha, just teasing you, my buddy."

Jack gave a dumbfounded yet reluctant Santa crew effectively went back to the north pole.

The sleigh returned to the north pole with its reindeer drone escorts in a triumphant fashion. They all felt gratitude for successfully accomplishing their mission including with Aku's forces failed to defeat them and not being confronted by those diabolical forces again on their journey. The whole Santa crew smiled. Jack at times looked down, wondering how his nightly achievements was blessing the people he gave to. He could imagine the astonishment, elated joy, and gratitude the receivers of his gifts expressed. How it gave them newfound hope, motivation, and joy amid otherwise tyrannical times. Jack especially wondered how the receivers whom he previously had help are reacting. He overall hoped they all are enjoying the surprised dose of Christmas spirit he charitably gave them. Angus played another bagpipe Christmas piece on the way along with a replay of the previous ones. This new piece seems moving and interesting. Jack, at one point, exclaimed, "Hoho!"

Santa's sleigh at last arrived at the north pole and they could hear a cheering crowd awaiting them. When they landed at the launch pad, there was a big crowd cheering for them, including some who were jingling bells. Jack felt elated as he watched the crowd and saw Mrs. Claus and some elves carrying decorated wreaths. Jack and his assistants got off to meet them. When Angus went to get off, the crowd, including Mrs. Claus, stood there in surprise. Mrs. Claus went on to asked, "Who is this Scotsman stranger?"

Angus twitch his eye and politely replied, "I am Jack's longtime friend and I wanted to help because I am for the mission itself. So, is it okay for me to become a welcome guest?"

There was a long moment of silence before Mrs. Claus amiably said, "yes, especially as long as you behave yourself."

The Scotsman nodded before asking, "How do you know that I am a Scotsman?"

Mrs. Claus replied, "Because I ama well learned and well-read person."

Next, the elves put the pretty wreaths on Jack, Alfred, and even Angus. Mrs. Claus then stood in front of the crowd and proclaimed, "Give another round of applause for our heroes here."

The crowd gave a loud round of applause as the wreathed trio smiled on. Next, Mrs. Claus also proclaimed, "How proud we are of those heroes who renewed the Christmas spirit against all the odds! May the spirit of Christmas, in the very spirit of my late husband, bless them! May we hope the world have a sparkling of hope because of what they did this past night. Now we will shortly proceed to the cultural hall for some dinner, entertainment, presents, and dance in celebration of their success. For now, we let our dear heroes get some rest and renewed before they could participate in the celebration."

Jack and the others felt good in what Mrs. Clause just announced including how they felt quite innately tired. Jack then noticed a couple of sedan chairs nearby that were red and green in color. He realized that they were going to be taken back to Santa's mansion for their sleep there. So, he, Alfred, and Angus went into those sedan chairs which gradually transported them back to Santa's mansion. Jack went onto the red one while Alfred and Angus managed to squeeze together in the green one. What pleasure it felt being transported in those sedan chairs. When they eventually arrived at the mansion, Angus felt wonder at the mansion's sight. They went onward inside the mansion with the Scotsman looking on further in wonder. They were all escorted to their guest rooms where they got ready for bed and went to sleep. Jack stayed in the same guest room he had been staying at. Right before Jack went to sleep, he lonesomely reflected on something. As he glanced on the fireplace, he longed for his parents. How he could wish them a merry Christmas regardless of his distance apart from them through time and space. How holidays back then with his parents as he can recall were very delightful when spending time with his parents. Yet, it felt like a holiday every time thought about his parents. He in some way wish that his dear parents could see the joy of Christmas here. Looking at the fading fireplace made him want to wish his parents merry Christmas and even happy new year. He wished he could see his parents this Christmas, yet he knows that sadly cannot happen because of that d%# Aku! Thinking about Aku's fault in not seeing his parents again made him feel irritated and even cringed. However, he tried to remain calm and collected about it, including trying to be positive about being in this place of cozy comfortable refuge. But how he wishes his parents were his Christmas gift, the Christmas gift he really desired! Thinking those thoughts, in fact, remained him of something important. That being his continuing motivation for continuing his quest. It further made him think that unless the north pole guaranteed that they still possibly can create a time machine for him, he must move on, regardless of the pleasant appeal of this place. Of course, he will wait after tonight's celebration to continue his compelled journey to find a way back in time to stop this dreaded Aku infested future he currently is in. He then went soundly asleep. He dreamt that night of, strangely enough, spending some happy quality time with his parents near a Christmas tree and fireplace, with some flashing childhood memories of him with his parents flashing by at times. The dream felt refreshing yet made him further yearn for his family and even homeland.

The celebration occurred next evening at the Holly Claus Summit. First, they had some simple pleasure in putting up and decorating Christmas trees. What amusement it was in seeing the beauty, ornate design, and at times interesting look of the ornaments. Jack was particularly awestruck by the décor he saw. What tenderness and closeness among the decorations he felt. The Scotsman himself was a bit clumsy in decorating but was okay in doing it otherwise. Jack heartily noticed with amazement there being an ornament that looks just like him. He also noticed some more ornaments that paid homage and gratitude towards his recent Christmas heroic deed and him in general. Next, as Jack observed most of the decorations got to humbly clapped their hands together around the Christmas tree and sang a pretty song in homage to the Christmas tree itself. Such a delightful song it was and made him more noticed the lovely beauty of the decorated trees and their supposed valuable possession. Angus witnessed as well but like Jack didn't participate in the singing. An alluring yet humbling sight to see the North Pole citizens paying homage to their precious Christmas trees. At the end of their singing, to Jack's and Angus's surprise, a lyric was added in homage to him: "And now may in the sight of our precious tree we are grateful for the star-like hope Samurai Jack has given us and for others this year." This made jack shed a tear of appreciation and it moved the Scotsman. Jack looked up at a gleaming star top decoration. It made him meeklythought of that star's countenance with him and his recent deed for the north patted Jack on the shoulder. Jack in turn smiled and glanced back at his friend.

Soon afterwards, a series of elegant tables and chairs were set up. Jack and Angus were sitting besides Mrs. Claus, Alfred Kringle, and Kris Kringle on a center table. Those tables were arranged in a vertical direction so they can effectively view the entertainment provided on the stage. The feasting people, including Jack and Angus, were in a warm and jolly mood. A whole variety of food was served there. Jack and to some extent, Angus, were impressed by the amount and interesting diversity of the food. Among the food served was roasted turkey, sushi, minced pies, ham, fruitcake, a bucket of chicken, sweet pies, Turkish delights, vegetable trays, Christmas pudding, Christmas cookies, mashed potatoes, beef wellington, tamales, Christmas themed cakes, and to Angus's surprise, yule log cake, black bun, haggis, and short bread. Perhaps the cooks were aware of a Scotsman in their midst and decided to pay some homage to him. The drinks they served were hot chocolate, eggnog, cold water, julmust, and even some alcohol. Jack really liked how they thought of him with sushi being among the food served there.

The samurai and the Scotsman answeredquestions about how they celebrated Christmas back in their homeland. Jack explained that where he originally came from they didn't have Christmas but instead had the new year celebration as the closest equivalent. But as Jack admitted, he was glad to find Christmas and its delightfulness. He goes on to explain some Japanese new year customs in response to inquiry about it. The listening ears on his table reacted with interest and wonder. Angus also explained customs of his home country. All of this led to some remarks like they should try some divination, try a first footer, and place candles in the window. This made the Scotsman grimaced. However, for most of the time, much of the audience, including Jack and Angus, paid attention to the six-act musical entertainment in front of them on the stage.

The first act was an elf man accompanied by a trio of women elf singers who sang the traditional Christmas song, twelve days of Christmas. How long drawn the song was but the singers sounded very good. The second act was a stirring and reverence sounding piano piece. It almost brought the audience to tears. Jack noticed how behind the piano was a mysterious miniature display of a stable with a kneeling man and woman with winged men overhead. Jack curiously asked and pointed out to his Scottish friend, "What is that display over there?"

The Scotsman replied, "It is perhaps the Christmas story that the piano piece is trying to tell."

"What Christmas story?" Jack asked.

The Scotsman didn't reply back as he rather seemed focused and touched by the piece. Jack didn't ask anymore questions about the curious display.

The third act had an elf man with a glamour suit and pompadour hairdo with a chorus in the background. Jack and Angus look marveled at the sight of the singer. They were also impressed by his vibrato singing voice. The song sounded good but had some sad undertones. The song brought tears to a few people including Mrs. Claus herself. The fourth act was a rock band. After a brief verbal introduction by one of the players, the band started rocking. The music itself dumbfound some people especially Jack and Mrs. Claus. Regardless, it was catchy to listen to. The fifth act was an energetic rendition of Rudolph the red nose reindeer by a beautiful elven girl group with a short enactment of the song besides the singers. The song gratified Jack including making him think that they included the song as a partial homage to him. Jack saw himself having something in common with Rudolph especially they both being heroes in a desperate situation yet able to rise, save the day because of a special advantage, and go down in history. He at least hopes to succeed his task in defeating Aku and positively end up like Rudolph in history. This song further reminded Jack of how he should continue his quest as he can. The sixth and final act involved a boy singing with an accompanying background juvenile chorus. It was a sweet, uplifting, and inspiring song. It made more people shed some more tears including Jack himself. The song about showing sincere love on Christmas because it is needed and is part of the season. The song probably was inspired by Jack's selfless heroism in volunteering to help the North Pole. After all, the performances were over each one of those performers went up on stage and bowed right before the curtain closed. Everyone then applauded for the good show that was just put on.

Some time afterwards, the tables and chairs were put up to make room for the upcoming dance. Jack was among those who helped put thins away. There were some chairs leaning against the walls that were put up, especially not just those who wanted to sit down but wanted to recover from eating too much. The Scotsman was among those people who sat down because he ate a whole lot. Jack in turn sat down a bit as he had a mild stomachache bur he eventually recovered. However, he, having a smiling countenance, decided to watch the dancing and listen to the music for a time. The song that was playing was a dancey Christmas tune in addition to other dance tunes like remixes of Christmas was even a techno sounding song praising Jack's heroic Santa deed! After a while, Jack decided to dance a bit and happen to have been cheerfully stolen into a conga line. Jack was bemused by it at first but eventually accepted it and be amused by it. The dancers seemed to be thoroughly energetically enjoying themselves. Some dancers spotted part hats as one elf was distributing them. Alfred and Kris Kringle were twirling around in the fun while even Mrs. Claus participated in the dancing fun including being in a conga line at one point. One time, a couple of elves went to the middle of the floor and began doing a series of moves as instructed in a song. Jack tried to participate in the dance exercise with some eyes on him. Jack soon quit because he couldn't get all of the dance moves including the one about going all the way down to the floor. The song overall sounded peculiar to him. Amid the dance somebody, to Jack's observation, was talking to the Scotsman. Turns out the Scotsman was being asked if he had a bagpipe and if he could play it for the audience. The Scotsman next took his bagpipe and played a couple of moving melodies. The music sounded boisterous and sprightly with some doing Scottish step dancing. Jack even attempted at step dancing but wasn't that good at it. Mrs. Claus, however, seem talented at it. Alfred and Kris were halfway good at it. Eventually, the dance and the overall event was over.

Mrs. Claus gave a short speech which went, "Thank you all for coming everyone for coming. How praiseworthy what Samurai Jack did in renewing the North Pole's spirits including if it wasn't for that then there wouldn't had such a speculator party."

Everyone applauded and the samurai humbly bowed.

Mrs. Claus further went on to solemnly say, "Yet how we still miss our true Santa Claus yet how his spirit will surely continue to live on tonight because of what the samurai did tonight."

Most of the audience including Jack looked doleful during what Mr. Clause just said but then brighten up at the end.

Mrs. Claus concluded, "You should all continue to rebuild the Christmas spirit and be concern with giving love like one of the songs that were sang tonight. How there is hope for a brighter future especially through Samurai Jack."

At that moment, a group of elves decided to scoop up Jack, to Jack's own surprise, and bounce him up in the air. The Scotsman was amused by it while Mrs. Clause was dazed. Alfred and Kris expressed a mixture of amusement and bewilderment.

The samurai politely said, "Thank you."

The elves answered back, "You are most welcome."

Soon afterwards, Mrs. Claus approached Jack. Jack suspected that she was going to do this and thought of what to respond to the question she wanted to ask. It turned out she indeed asked the question Jack thought she might ask, "Do you want to stary longer Samurai Jack?"

This made Jack look and seriously reflect. He thoughtfully replied, "Not unless you guarantee me that you still could make me a time machine."

This startled Mrs. Claus who then responded, "No, as you had been informed, we just cannot find the resources for one."

Jack soberly replied, "Alright then, I must go on with my quest."

After some moments of silence, Mrs. Claus signed and responded, "I accept your choice. I really hope you will fulfill your quest to banish the nefarious Aku and therefore completely avenge my husband's death."

Jack nodded and responded, "I really hope so too, regardless of the misfortune I encountered in failing to find a way back to the past."

The old matron sympathetically frowns and sedately responded, "I know you can do this and will do it as long as you keep on your heroic spirit, determination, and the Christmas spirit of course. I know that if you persist it will come true. Think about that."

Jack signed and was momentarily silent before he said, "Thanks. I am planning to leave tomorrow as I can then."

He next left her. Sometime later that night he thought of similar thoughts like he thought during bedtime the night before. This time, however, he also thought of how Mrs. Claus's advice might help him. He now had a renewed strike of determined hope within him as he went to sleep.

The next day, the lone samurai did leave. His farewell was accompanied by a crowd willing to say goodbye to him. The crowd looked sad to see him go. The samurai was wearing the same fur trimmed coat he was wearing when he first came in. The Scotsman along with Mrs. Clause, Alfred, and Kris were in the crowd's forefront. Angus looked a bit sad to see his friend go. Alfred looked weary. Mrs. Claus herself looked okay with it yet her eyes show that she will miss Samurai Jack. Kris was the appointed escort vehicle's driver. Yet it wasn't time to go as a few things had to happen. First, a choir was assigned to sing a farewell song. The song sang about having a good Christmas and the forthcoming new year yet being concerned about others and wishing for a hopeful and assuring made Jack shed some tears and it was touching for all to hear. Then the Scotsman came up and asked his buddy, "Can I play a seasonal Scottish tune on my bagpipe that I think will be suitable to play at this departure?"

The samurai nodded yes. So, the Scotsman started to play. The tone sounded solemn but uplifting. The piece indeed did sound suitable to the occasion. This piece brought more tears to Jack's eyes. This piece had a tender touch upon the audience's hearts.

Before Jack could go on, he gave a short speech saying, "A really good even hospitality time I had with you all. How I am grateful even feeling indebted for your generosity. Yet my quest must continue. I really appreciate being with you and your land. For I sincerely hope to abolish this afflicting evil Aku has created through going back to the past from whence I originally came from and slaying him. You can inform me if you ever found a way I can go back in time."

Jack sighed before continuing, "I recently learned that Christmas is really essentially about giving generously all the time with the Christmas spirit. It particularly doesn't have to be gifts but rather love, selflessness, and joy toward others. I got reinforced the importance of generosity. Such a benefit it was being here. How we should brighten up the memory of Santa Claus through trying to emulate his good example. I hope you all have a bright new year and hopeful years ahead."

He then bowed to them as the audience joyfully applauded. Tears were certainly being shed on some people's face including Mrs. Claus and Alfred.

Jack lastly asked, "So, how is the Scotsman going to be taken home?"

This question surprised the audience a bit with the Scotsman replying, "I am going to stay a bit longer. Don't worry buddy, I know they will provide a way for me to go back home."

Next, Jack finally went to the sled mobile and took his seat on it. It felt like a solemn moment. The Scotsman did a softer rendition of the piece he just played as the sleigh mobile speedily took Jack out of the north pole. When the sleigh mobile finally was far out in the snowy wilderness, it stopped. Jack went off the sleigh mobile. Jack bowed to the driver which waved back. Before Jack could go further, the driver made some remarks, "Farewell Samurai Jack. That was an inspiring speech you gave. I am grateful for your presence and generosity you expressed towards us. I feel sad at your departing, yet I understand your justified reason in leaving which I really agree with. But you always will be in my heart and the hearts of the people of the north pole. Goodbye."

Jack gave one last sad look at Kris with Kris expressing a sad look through his helmet as well. The sleigh mobile next drove off back towards the north pole as the lone samurai proceeded onward through the snow.

Gonkuro's audience were overall dumbstruck.

The emperor asked, "Is that all?"

Gonkuro responded, "No, as I was there one other time."