"Dear family members," Theanore began on her stage right next to Crassus' house. "I have done a bad thing and have landed on the bad list, probably."
Gasps and "oh's" came from the gathered children. The youngest among them teared up, thinking they would be punished because of the transgression of their ruler.
"But I have until midnight to fix my mistake! So, I ask for your moral support and quick hands…"
"Typical politician," a girl said loudly. "Makes a mess, and we have to clean it."
Some of the children nodded, and a murmur of agreement spread through the gathered crowd.
"You don't have to help if you don't want to," Theanore said, voice wavering. "But I'd appreciate it. Everyone who wants to help, stay, and those of you who don't want to help, go and enjoy Yule!"
Many children left. Only a handful of toddlers remained, along with Elmar, Dereck, and Diana.
Theanore jumped off the stage and into the snow and went to the group.
