The Nutcracker: A Christmas Fantasy

             From the E.T.A. Hoffman story and the Tchaikovsky-Marius Petipa Ballet

                                                 Reinterpreted by Greg K. Morris

Chapter 1: Christmas Eve

This story concerns a teenage girl, her nutcracker and a duo of the meanest mice who ever did live. 'Twas the late afternoon of a long ago Christmas Eve. The days of advent were reaching their tail end. As such, the Stahlbaum family's household hustled and bustled in preparation for the evening's annual holiday party. The family were overtaken with festive anticipation for the following, big day itself.

The Stahlbaum's decked their halls. William, the Stahlbaum patriarch, stood in front of the hearth and built a blazing fire. "This'll keep everybody warm on a chilly night" he said to himself. I describe him as a rangy, higher voiced man with dark, slicked hair and a candy striped suit.

Marie, his wife, lit some red and green candles. "Lovely", the matriarch muttered to herself. "The flames of their wicks reflect a nice glow against the frosty windows". She could be described as a wee, soft spoken woman with blonde hair, warm eyes and a simple, green party dress.

Marie and William had two children. Clara and Fritz. Fritz, a mop-topped, lisping 11-year-old boy, wore his best suit and was tasked with setting up the food table. "Mmm, you look delicious!", he murmured to himself as he tried to sneak himself a gingerbread man. "Don't even think about it!" his sister called out.

She'd noticed him in her peripheral vision. "Aw, can't I have one now, please!" Fritz begged. Clara shot down his request. "No, we've got to wait until all our guests arrive". "Fine, but the cookies will probably be stale by then" Fritz groused. "Oh, don't be silly" replied Clara. "They'll be well worth the wait". "I guess yer right", Fritz grumbled.

Clara, a genteel 13 year-old, had skin like a porcelain doll. She was garbed in a simple, white dress and had a coordinating ribbon tied in her long hair. After Clara's interaction with her brother, she got back to decorating the Christmas tree. Clara took out a star, uttered "Time for the finishing touch" and placed it atop the tree.

Chapter 2: The Visitor

The rest of the Stahlbaum's gathered together to look at it. "It couldn't be lovelier" Marie complimented. "Thank you, mother. I'm quite proud of the final results" Clara responded. "You should be, sweetheart" William responded. Even rambunctious, little Fritz admitted that his sister did a "real good job".

Just then, the house's grandfather clock, which had a carved out of wood owl on top, began to bong. The doorbell rang. "I know who that is!" Clara said. She and Fritz ran to to answer the wreathed front door. Clara opened it and a mysterious figure stood amongst the softly falling, light snow.

It was Herr Drosselmeyer, an old family friend who was like a surrogate uncle to the children. He was an imposing, wiry man with fly away, grey hair, a bushy mustache and 1 eye (he lost the other one and wore an eyepatch over his empty socket). His attire consisted of a coal black suit, matching, red insided cape, grey top hat, sky blue bowtie, violet gloves and his finest white, button up dress shirt. Holding a big bag in one hand, he stepped inside, set down the sack, took off his top hat and gregariously said "Happy Holidays, everybody!" in his husky voice.

"Same to you!" Clara and Fritz said together. Herr Drosselmeyer put an arm around each of the children and all 3 of them hugged. "It's so wonderful to see you 2 again, you've grown so much". "We sure missed you" Fritz said. "So glad we get to spend Christmas together" Clara said. "I am, too, children!" Herr Drosselmeyer said with a smile.

Marie and Willian went over to greet their longtime mate. Marie shook his hand and uttered "It's been so long, Drossy". William gave his pal a big 'ole hug and said "So thrilled you're here, Dross". "We're all going to have a splendid time together" replied Herr Drosselmeyer. "Children, could you please help your Uncle Drosselmeyer with his bag?" Marie asked. "We'd be happy to" answered Clara. "Just put it in the parlor please, dears" said Herr Drosselmeyer.

As the children followed their direction, Clara noticed a nibbled gingerbread cookie. "I thought I told you not to touch those" she scolded. "It wasn't me" Fritz replied. "I was greeting Uncle Drosselmeyer with you. "Oh, that's right" Clara said. "Sorry for the scolding". "That's alright" Fritz replied. "I wonder what did nibble it" Clara responded.

Chapter 3: Present Time

Herr Drosselmeyer appeared and asked "Would you like to see what I brought for the party?". "Yes, please!" the children replied in unison. Herr Drosselmeyer began to unload some contents of his sack onto a nearby card table. He briefly stopped when noticed little footprints on top of it. "That's not a good sign" the man thought to himself.

Anyhow, he got back to work and unloaded 4 special toys. He'd brought a tin soldier, clown ragdoll doll, teddy bear and a winged ballerina who danced. "Those are fantastic, the other children will love playing with these at the party" Clara commented. "Thank you, sweetie. I do hope so" replied Herr Drosselmeyer.

He reached back into his bag and retrieved two special parcels. "These are for you, my sweets. You know our Christmas Eve tradition, you each get to open 1 gift from me now". Herr Drosselmeyer passed them to the children, who said "Thank you". Fritz unwrapped his. He was given a cape and a domino mask. "This'll be fun to play pretend with" remarked the overjoyed boy.

Clara took wrapping paper off hers. Her faced gleamed with happiness. She'd received a nutcracker statuette. He had dark skin, two rows of exposed teeth, a black mustache, corresponding eyebrows and wild white hair. The beardy, wooden fellow wore black shoes, white pants, a green jacket, buckled belt and his red soldier's cap.

"He's kinda odd looking" Fritz uttered. "Oh, don't be silly" said Clara. "He's neat. He looks stalwart and gallant, like a fine gentleman". As she looked into his brown, painted eyes, she could've sworn 1 of them wink at her. This startled her, but she tried to move on. "It was probably just the lighting combined with my imagination" she thought to herself.

"I actually have a story regarding a nutcracker, if you're interested" Herr Drosselmeyer chimed in. "Please tell it!" Fritz begged. "Wait a minute, Fritz" Clara said. "We'd love to listen to it, but we should probably go help our parents now". A passing through the parlor William and Marie, overheard this. "Oh, that's not necessary" stated William. "All the preparations are completed and there's still some time before the party. You go right ahead and let your Uncle Drosselmeyer tell you a tale" said Marie.

"Yay!" uttered Fritz. The children settled onto a sofa with Herr Drosselmeyer. Both Clara and Fritz sat next to him. "I'm looking forward to hearing this" Clara said. "And I'm overjoyed to sharing with tale with you 2" said an in the middle Herr Drosselmeyer.

Chapter 4: Herr Drosselmeyer's Story Begins

This is how his story went. There was once a jack of all trades. Being the member of a shiny castle's royal court, he found himself commissioned by the land's royals to build better mousetraps. "you've got to intervene!" cried the driven batty Queen Dolores, a smugly shrill, longed faced woman with big eyes, short hair and a tiara.

"That's right!" barked King Aaron, a gangling, craggy faced man with thick brows. The king wore his crown and a red sash, too. "A colony of verminous, malicious mice have invaded the castle". "They're taking over!" squawked his wife. "Particularly in the kitchen".

"They've already devoured all my sausage lard. They'll overthrow my dynasty if something not done!" bellowed the king. "I'll see what I can do" said the jack of all trades. From now on, I'll refer to him as the JOAT. "You'd better succeed at fixing our problems!" roared the king. "If you do not, you'll rue the day!" added the queen.

Their despotic words made the JOAT feel uneasy. However, he replied with a calm, simple "I will not be failing either of you". Quickly, he got to work and invented elaborate contraptions. "These ought to do the trick" he muttered to himself. His inventions succeeded. They lured in the mice with cheese, who were subsequently trapped. The JOAT also suggested that a clowder of cats roam the castle, with its staff keeping them awake and alert by constantly stroking their fur. This course of action was successful for a while, too. Unfortunately, the JOAT's victories had stirred up ire of the mice's queen, Madame Mouserinks, a tyrannical monarch who was also a witch. "I will enact my revenge!" she snarled to herself.

The JOAT was given an after the fact audience with King Aaron and Queen Dolores. Also in attendance was their daughter Perilpat, a long haired, vacant eyed, baby faced teenage princess. She wore a blue dress with her red hennin. "You did an adequate job at stopping our pest problem" the queen said. "It was a privilege being of service, your majesty" the JOAT replied. "I'm just relieved there aren't anymore rodents swarming around this place" Princess Perilpat uttered.

Chapter 5: The Mouse Queen's Revenge

As soon as she said that, a rotund, brown mouse possessing round ears, an overbite and receding fur scampered into the formal throne room. The mouse's name was Snivvy. He wore a worn, black, ironic commander's uniform and had a pitifully small dagger in his holster. "What do you want here?" asked a disgusted Princess Perilpat. "I'm here on business" answered Snivvy.

"State it!" snapped King Aaron. "Very well, I shall. By the authority vested in me, I hereby introduce her wickedly royal highness", Snivvy started to oblige. "Get on with it!" a voice carped from the corridor. This made Snivvy start to shake. "Yes milady. All rise for Madame Mouserinks, The Mouse Queen!" he obeyed in his deep, nerve wracked tones.

The mouse queen strutted in. The grey Madame Mouserink had fur pulled back in ragged bun, buck teeth, beady eyes, arched eyebrows, pointy ears and a pointed snout. She was wearing a black, poufy sleeved, ruffled collar dress, an emerald brooch and a gold, green, veiled crown encrusted with additional emeralds. "Keep quiet until I've finished!" she demanded of Snivvy. He put his paws over their mouth.

She walked towards the royal family and their JOAT. "As of late, your servants have failed at their cat stroking. Along with their guard cats, they nodded off. Barging in was far too easy!". "Good help is hard to find nowadays" muttered Queen Dolores. "What exactly do you want?" King Aaron impatiently inquired. "Thanks to you and your wife foolishly acquiring the services of that infernal man, his confounded traps succeeded at putting an array of my lowly subjects in captivity. Therefore, my army of mice has decreased insurmountably. As such, I won't have much of legacy to pass down to my son. I've simply come here to return the favor" Madame Mouserinks responded.

"How do intend to do that?" Princess Perilpat scoffingly inquired. "Like this, princess" the mouse queen replied with a sinister, toothy grin. Madame Mouserinks raised her hands and shot bursts of magical energy at the Perilpat, who fell off her designated throne. She let out a high pitched eeking shriek, rolled down some steps and landed on the carpeted floor.

"Since you had the gall to mess with my mousely army, I'm going to have audacity and mishape with your daughter!" Madame Mouserinks declared to the king and queen. Princess Perilpat squirmed on the floor. Her head grew disproportionately. The princess now had wonky eyes, an oversized mouth and perpetually frizzy, unruly hair.

"That'll teach both of you for interfering with my conquest of this kingdom. Keep in line and don't interfere with my fiendish endeavors!" Madame Mouserinks said to Perilpat's parents. "Come along, Snivvy" The Mouse Queen ordered. "We've got havoc and misery to wreak elsewhere". "Coming, ma'am" her reluctant right hand rodent replied after uncovering his mouth. Both of them dashed out of the throne room, with Madame Mouserinks uttering a mean laugh. "All the best with undoing my spell!".

"She distorted you!" wailed Queen Dolores. "You're looking like a piece of surreal artwork!" screamed King Aaron. Princess Perilpat, dazed from their topple, stood up, looked into a wall mirror and was prompt to scream. "I'm so hideous, look at what that witch did to me!".

Chapter 6: A Tough Nut to Crack

The JOAT, who'd been watching these events unfold, couldn't believe his eye. "When I got out of bed this morning, I didn't think I'd see all this today" he thought aloud. "You're responsible for what occurred with my daughter just now!" the king accused. "Me? What did I do! Madame Mouserinks cursed her" the JOAT replied in civil protest. "You assembled the mousetraps!" the queen proclaimed. "Only to keep her from conquering your kingdom" the JOAT replied.

"Regardless, you're to blame for the current state of my appearance!" exclaimed a finger pointing Princess Perilpat. 'Make him fix me!" she said to her parents. "You've got a month to clean up this mess. Understand?" an angered king said to the JOAT. "Completely, I'll make her good as new" the JOAT responded. "See that you do" uttered the irked queen.

Luckily, for the JOAT, he knew where to get advice on breaking curses. He was good friends with Wallace, the royal court's Wizard. "He'll know how to break The Mouse Queen's spell!" the JOAT mumbled as he went to Wallace's study, a cramped room filled with an assortment of magical items.

When he arrived at his destination, Wallace was sitting at a cluttered desk. His face perked up when he saw their friend. "Grand to see you, comrade. What brings you here?" he uttered in his gravelly, exuberant voice. "I've got to undo a curse, Wally" the JOAT explained. "Given the fact that you're the most magical person around, I figured you could assist me. Please, Wally. My Situation's urgent". "Of course, friend. You've come to the correct place, what sort of curse needs breaking?'" queried Wallace, a stockily built, taller man who resembled an owl with silver-rimmed spectacles and a colorfully plaid suit. "Madame Mouserinks cursed Princess Perilpat by uglifying her externally" the JOAT revealed.

"Oh, my. That is a serious matter, isn't it?" Wallace replied. "That's right, If she isn't cured in 4 weeks, I'm doomed" said the JOAT. "Well, we'll have to act quickly" Wallace declared as he fumbled through an open spell book. "Let's look in the magical antidotes chapter, shall we!".

He reached his desired chapter and read it. "Eureka, I know what has to be done!" Wallace stated. "Brilliant. What'll solve the princess's predicament?" the JOAT questioned. "A krakatuk nut must be cracked by the mouth of a lifetime unshaven, non boot wearing young fellow. While doing so, he'll also be required to step 7 backwards steps with his eyes shut. After completing these directions, give the nut to the uglied individual and have them eat it. This'll render their curse null in void and return them to their prior state. If somebody is unqualified, they'll break off teeth as the nut is larger and has a rock hard shell" Wallace revealed.

"That's a strangely specific solution" the JOAT commented. "Sad it isn't simpler. Oh, well. I'll just have to make do and try my best. Thank you, Wally!". "It was my pleasure, good luck!" Wallace replied. The JOAT acquired a krakatuk nut from Wallace, who had one in a shelved jar of nuts. "God be with you, friend" Wallace said as the JOAT left that night and started to wander around in search of a young man to break The Mouse Queen's spell.

Chapter 7: The Nutcracking Boy

He'd wandered on for 3 weeks but was unable to prevail. None of the young men he came across were qualified to shatter the nut's shell. "What am I going to do?" the JOAT asked himself. Time was running out at a rapid place. There was only week left to go until his deadline. Feeling defeated, the man retreated back to his home kingdom, wondering what to do next. Elsewhere, Madame Mouserinks gloated "Soon I'll return to castle and this kingdom shall be mine to rule over. I'll be able to leave it to my darling boy, too!".

When he returned, the JOAT needed something to take mind off all the disarray. So, decided to invite his cousin Claude and their son Karl for a visit. They met with him in his office, a room which looked as if it belonged to a man who'd been all over the place and tried a variety of things.

"It seems we've arrived just in the nick of time. You look so despondent cousin" Claude said in his regal, deep voice. A puppet maker by trade, he was an angelic, adorably cherub-like, older gentleman with a white hair and old-timey clothing. "Something's definitely bothering you".

"Please tell us what's on your mind' Karl requested. "I've never seen you look this down before". Karl was actually born far away and adopted by Claude early on in his life. Their father-son bond was strong, though. Karl had just reached 13 years of age, too. He was dark skinned with short black hair and brown eyes. The young man dressed like a dandy. His voice recently started to break and he'd grown some thin facial hair.

"My days are numbered" the JOAT responded. "What makes you say that?" Claude queried. "Before the mouse queen started her conquest of this kingdom, she misshaped the facial features of our princess. If don't fix the issue at hand, I'll get penalized" the JOAT explained. "How is what happened your fault?" questioned Karl. "Though I tried to help out, it was my inventions which initially angered Madame Mouserinks" the JOAT replied'."

"Is there anything you can do break the princess's curse?" inquired Karl. "There's one way to do it. However, it requires the assistance of an especial lad. None of the ones I met during my wandering fit the qualifications" the JOAT answered. "What does this hypothetical feller need to be like?" queried Claude.

"He'll need to be a young who hasn't shaved or worn boots before" the JOAT informed. Karl and Claude smiled at each other. "I'd be able to assist you" Karl said. "You can? how so?" the JOAT inquired. "Well, you just described me to a tee. I've never worn boots before in my life because I don't like the way they look" Karl explained. "And I haven't showed you how to shave yet" Claude chimed in. Given that the JOAT only had a few days left until his deadline, he was stunned, joyous and so relieved. "You've saved my life, dear boy!" he stated. "Thank you both for visiting me in my time of need!". "Oh, it's our pleasure, cous!" said Claude. "You and I should celebrate with a pint. I'll bet you're needing 1 right now!". "Am I ever!" the JOAT responded. The trio of fellas chinked glasses together and enthusiastically uttered "Cheers!". Given his age, Karl had a hearty glass of cider instead.

Chapter 8: The Nutcracking Day

At last, the nutcracking day arrived. The JOAT, his cousin, Karl and the royals all gathered in the castle's spacious, pink, marble ball room for the occasion. Also attending was Karl's friend Albert, an Irish-born tin soldier who'd just been discharged. The spindly, shamrock pin wearing, in uniform redhead came to offer moral support. "You've got this!", he said to Karl in his brogue. Claude hugged his child and whispered "Good luck, my son!".

"Let's get this over with!" commanded King Aaron. "Don't dawdle!" Queen Dolores nagged in turn. "Make me pretty again!" ordered Princess Perilpat. "Charming bunch" Albert murmured. The JOAT handed Karl the krakatuk nut and calmly said "Here you go, work your wonders!".

Karl who'd been given prior instructions, put the nut between his two rows of teeth and cracked its shell without so much as a hitch. He followed his subsequent, respective directions. Next, Karl handed the unshelled nut to Perilpat, who inhaled it. The princess didn't even thank him. In an instant, she was returned to her usual form. "I'm lovely once more!" she exclaimed. "Not internally" muttered Albert.

"Don't celebrate too soon!" a recognizable voice said. Madame Mouserinks and a sniveling Snivvy entered from a mousehole. "Refrain from savoring your triumph. I'm more than capable of casting my curse again!". "I sense the impending doom" Snivvy murmured.

"You'll be doing no such thing" Karl told the mouse queen, he stepped in front of Princess Perilpat, too. "Brave young man" Snivvy said. "If you insist, suit yourself. I'll enchant you in her place, oh nutcracker!" Madame Mouserinks uttered. Just as she'd begun to stick out her paws, Albert tossed a blunderbuss, which he'd brought in case of an emergency, to Karl. "Go long!" Albert cried out. Karl caught it and shot at floor in front of The Mouse Queen, just as she blasted magic at him.

"Ugh!" vocalized Karl. "Aaaagghh!" screamed Madame Mouserinks, who whacked into a wall. Both of them flew in opposite directions. "No!" hollered Claude. Poor Karl transmogrified and shrank. The JOAT went to go examine him. "He's an actual nutcracker!" he declared.

"A fitting fate for him!" uttered a clinging to life Madame Mouserinks. "My reign's come to an end, but beware. My heir will assume the throne. He'll avenge me and my lineage will be continued". After uttering these words, she drew her terminal breath. "Ooh, I do wish you hadn't done that. Her offspring's something fierce!" said Snivvy. He retrieved The Mouse Queen's crown and scurried off.

"Now that our daughter's returned to her state of normalcy, you're all dismissed. That includes you, mister 'jack of all trades'. Your services are no longer required" King Aaron callously decreed. "But what about Karl?" the JOAT asked. "He's of no concern to us" Queen Dolores replied. "We can't just leave him like this!" Albert stated. "Whatever, he's useless and ugly now" responded Princess Perilpat. The JOAT picked up Karl and passed him to Claude. "I'm so sorry about this" the JOAT apologized. "Don't be, this isn't your fault. I don't blame you" Claude replied. With heavy hearts, everybody left the castle, banished by the royals on unfair grounds. Madame Mouserinks' angered, next in line for the thrown son vowed revenge. "That nutcracker will pay with his life!". Upon being dubbed king at his inherited, sizeable, mangy burrow lair, he faced Snivvy and his subjects with all 14 piercing eyes. "All heil The Mouse King!" the son vigorously growled. His regime's going to be even worse" Snivvy said to himself.

Chapter 9: Clara's Warning

At last we return to the Stahlbaum's parlor. Being the storyteller he was, Herr Drosselmeyer managed to tell his tale in only half an hour. "That was a good story, thank you for telling it to us. What a mean royal family, though. I'd hate to cross paths with that mouse king" Fritz said. "Poor Karl! talk about major ingratitude. He shouldn't have gone through all that" Clara exclaimed. "Sometimes people in positions of power are like that!" muttered a regretful Herr Drosselmeyer. "At least two are able to see the unfairness of it all and know better".

At that moment, Marie and William walked into the room. "You've finished your story just in time" Marie uttered. "Our guests are starting to arrive!" William revealed. "Let's give them seasonal greetings, come along, children!" said Herr Drosselmeyer. "Coming!" a rushing Fritz said as everybody but Clara hurried out of the parlor.

As Clara started to see herself out, she saw her family's Nativity scene placed on the mantle. "I've got to straighten out such a scene and make it look just right" she muttered to herself. Then, she heard a snarling voice boom from beneath the floorboards.

"Do be forewarned, tonight she'll be avenged. Surrender sweets, Drosselmeyer's toys and my foe. Oblige and you'll survive to see Christmas morning's sunrise. You have until the bell tolls 12!" it boomed. Clara picked up her nutcracker, who stood on the coffee table. "Given what I just learned, I know who that was and what you've been through. I'll keep you close to me for the remainder of the night" were her subsequent words.

Despite that spooky incident, which Clara tried to ignore, the party was full of Christmassy merriment. Everyone feasted, gabbed and had loads of fun. Herr Drosselmeyer elevated the event with his presence. He performed magic tricks and the toys he'd brought were extremely popular with all the children in attendance. He played the harpsichord and lead everybody in singing carols. Overflowing with Christmas spirit, the gentleman also suggested that each person there (himself included) donate a bit of money to give to the needy. Each person's donation amount accumulated into a tidy amount.

By 10 o'clock, the guests, except for a visiting Herr Drosselmeyer, left. Clara and Fritz were taking turns cracking nuts with Clara's nutcracker. Clara wore her pink slippers and a white nightgown. Fritz had on his yellow footie pajamas. "I knew he'd win you over the end" Clara said to her brother. "He really did. He's got a real study jaw" Fritz observed. Out of curiosity, Fritz grabbed the biggest nut he could and tried to crack it. Unfortunately, he left the nutcracker's jaw limp afterwards. "I didn't mean to do that!" he shouted. "Sorry, Clara!". "That's alright, Fritz" a diplomatic Clara replied.

"Accidents happen. I'm sure it's only temporary". She took out her hair ribbon and bandaged the nutcracker's jaw. "That should do the the trick. He'll be as good as new in no time". Fritz went to the castle-shaped, purple toy cabinet, rummaged around it in and pulled out a miniature toy sword. Its blade was metal. It had a brass handle, too. "Let me give him this to make it up to you" Fritz said. "Aw, that's so sweet of you, Fritz. Thank you" Clara replied. "You're welcome" Fritz replied. Clara took the sword from him and put in her nutcracker's holster.

"Now he's already for battle" Herr Drosselmeyer remarked as he entered the frame. The children's parents were right behind him. "It's bedtime, children" proclaimed William. "May I have a few more minutes to be with my nutcracker, please?" asked Clara. "Of course, dear!" answered Marie. "Since you're younger, I'm afraid you'll have to bed to bed now, Fritz". Fritz let a groan but did as he was told.

Clara bided her family good night. They did so in return and headed upstairs. On his way out, Herr Drosselmeyer turned to Clara. "Since you've taken care of the nutcracker, he'll care of you!" he said with a wink. "He's definitely a good luck charm" Clara uttered in response. "Good night, Uncle Dross". "Good night, darling. See you bright and early" Herr Drosselmeyer replied as he left the room. Clara cuddled up with her nutcracker on the couch and quickly nodded off.

Chapter 10: Midnight Strikes

Clara awoke with a start at midnight. "Oh!" she vocalized. The room was illuminated by an outside star. It shone brightly, like the first Christmas's star. Once Clara's vision cleared, an unusual sight caught her eyes. She rose from the couch to get a closer look. Herr Drosselmeyer was silently sitting on top of the grandfather clock as it chimed. He'd folded himself in cape. He spread his arms. Silver and gold sparkles scattered throughout the room. Herr Drosselmeyer refolded into his cape and vanished.

A wide eyed, speechless Clara noticed that the walls began to stretch perspectivally. From her point of view, the Christmas tree she decorated grew, too. An tingly feeling took over the girl. It occurred to Clara that the world around her wasn't growing at all. "I'm shrinking!" she thought aloud. Trying to remain calm, Clara looked around at her surroundings. "The room sure looks different from down here!", she muttered to herself.

"This size does give you atypical perspectives, doesn't it?" a boy's voice said. Clara turned around and saw her nutcracker waving at her. "Hello, Clara" he said. "Karl I presume" Clara responded. Karl took off his ribbon bandage and slid off the sofa he was standing. Landing on his feet, he responded by saying "You presumed correctly".

"It's good to see you up and about" Clara said. "I've got you to thank for that. Thanks for taking care for me. You're such a kind girl" Karl replied. "You're welcome. Please forgive Fritz, though". "Oh, it's alright. My jaw was just tired. Like you said, it was an accident" Karl responded.

"I've got say, I'm glad you're walking and talking. Due to Uncle Dross's story, I wasn't sure if you could or not" Clara said. "When Madame Mounserinks zapped me, I was temporarily stunned by the shock. My ability to walk and talk was regained shortly thereafter" Karl explained. "Thanks for your empathetic words, by the way".

"Anytime" Clara said. At this moment, she remembered The Mouse King's unheeded demands. "That reminds me, will her son be appearing here soon?" the girl asked. "Yes" responded a regretful Karl. "The Mouse King will be making his presence known again shortly. He and will be duking it later. He'll be bringing his army of mice along as well. Your little brother's sword to should be help me out tremendously, though. We also won't be alone, either. Follow me!" uttered Karl.

Chapter 11: Karl's Fleet

Karl led Clara to the Christmas tree. There rested the toys Herr Drosselmeyer brought. They'd been placed alongside the wrapped presents which were placed underneath. "Wake up, friends!" Karl cried out. All at once, the toys came to life. "This is so neat!" Clara thought aloud. "I'd like you all to meet Clara" Karl said.

Each toy introduced themself. "You've already heard about me, lass. I'm Albert from your Uncle Dross's story" the tin solider said. "It's nice meeting you. You sounded like a terrific, true friend!" Clara replied. "Thank you, I try my best" Albert replied.

Next the Eastern expatriate teddy bear, a tanned, furry fellow with their lacey maroon bowtie stepped forward and stuck out his paw. "It truly is a pleasure getting to officially meet you, little miss!" he said in a raspy voice. "Softy's the name". "Likewise" Clara said. "I know we just met and all, but may I have a hug?" she asked. "You look so huggable". "Of course you may!" Softy replied. He hugged her, it was evident that Softy lived up to his namesake.

The gangly clown rag doll made his entrance, multicolored clothing, sleek hair, white face, painted mouth, red nose and all. "Jamie's the name, clowning's my game. It's real lovely makin' your acquaintance" he drawled. Jamie shook Clara's hand with great vigor. "This night's going to be a major circus, hope you're alright with that, kiddo". "We'll brave each ring as a team" Clara joked. "Very well said, kid" Jamie replied. "I appreciate your pluck and spunk".

Last but most certainly not least, the winged ballerina went to greet and Clara started to flutter above the ground. "Greetings, little one" she said. "I am the sugarplum fairy". "You are? I'm honored to be the presence of a fairy" an awestruck Clara said. The Fairy wore pastel ballet slippers, champagne tights and a pink tutu, too. She had mauve wings, pinkish skin, light brown eyes, thin brows, brown. bun tied hair and a beaming smile. "It's an honor being in yours" The Sugarplum Fairy said. "Alright, this is one of the happiest moments of my life" Clara blurted out loud. This made the fairy smile even more.

"I'm glad you've gotten a chance to know them" Karl said to Clara. "These 4 are going to be my primary source of help with defeating The Mouse King". "And we're more than happy to be helpers" Softy chimed in. "There'll be more assistance to come, too" Jamie informed Clara. "The cabinet's toys have valiantly volunteered to participate in the ensuing battle. Numerous denizens from the Toy Kingdom will be fighting, too. The Mouse King intends to conquer their land eventually" The Sugarplum Fairy revealed. ""We've got to stop that tyrant!". "It sounds like you've assembled quite the defense against him" Clara said. "If there's anything I can do to help out, please let me know". "Ha, this pitiful, ineffective, namby-pamby, foolish group needs all the help it can get!" a voice sinister hissed. It was The Mouse King.

Chapter 12: The Mouse King

"Dear God, he's arrived!" Albert exclaimed. A floorboard overturned and Snivvy emerged from it. "I hereby announce.." he started. "Silence you baneful, blundering, blithering bungler!" the monstrous mouse roared. "Like mother, like son. It runs in the family" an exasperated Snivvy muttered. "Stand aside. I'm more than capable of announcing myself and making an entrance!" his ruler uttered. "The Mouse King cometh!"

He arose from the darkness and crawled into view. Seeing him was the most fearsome sight Clara had ever seen in her life. The mousely monarch had 7 heads, which each shared the same conscious. A larger head was connected to his long neck. The Mouse King's deceased mother's crown and a curly, black wig were perched atop it. 6 smaller heads wrapped around their neck and had miniscule replica crowns on top.

The snaggle-toothed, hulking, greasy creature inherited his mother's grey fur, eyebrows, claws, ears and pointy nose (times 6, obviously). The Mouse King was wearing a red coat, white, frilly scarf and black dress pants. His cape was purple with white, black speckled trim. "There's no finer way to celebrate the holidays than partaking in vengeance" he said. Each of his heads spoke in unison, which resulted in a rumbling intimidating sound.

"Oh, yes. That's the truth meaning of Christmas" Karl sarcastically replied. "You won't be succeeding, Mus". Your name's Mus?" Clara asked with a snicker. "That's the Latin word for mouse" The Sugarplum Fairy informed. "The name doesn't reflect your intimidating nature" Jamie said. "It deeply contrasts and does not suit you at all" Softy added. "They're not wrong" Snivvy commented. "Quiet you!" The Mouse King demanded. Poor Snivvy winced after being yelled at. The Mouse King turned to our band of heroes and said "Regardless of my name, I will be winning. My minions and I aren't going to be outmatched by a bunch of mere ragamuffins. Pity my perfectly reasonable requests weren't met by the girl. I guess I'll have to be twice as mean". Karl stood up to him. "You! Reasonable? That's rich" were his words. "We'll put up a daring fight".

Clara had previously deduced that the JOAT in Herr Drosselmeyer's story was actually his self-insert. "At least Uncle Dross helped reduce the amount of mice on your side" the brave girl said to The Mouse King, who let out a coldhearted, cruel, imperious laugh. "That fool was a temporary, inconvenient nuisance. Upon being crowned and him being banished, I personally dismantled his mousetraps and freed my mother's imprisoned troops. My army's grown exponentially since then. Since Drosselmeyer wasn't around to construct anymore traps, I managed to disband the monarchy that wronged my dearly departed mother, with ravaging, pillaging and enslaving occurring the process. I'm looking forward to repeating my actions with the Toy Kingdom!".

"You won't be coming out on top!" Albert stated. "We'll see" The Mouse King replied.

He snapped 2 digits on his clawed paw. All at once, a massive horde of armored, armed mice entered the frame via that previously mentioned, overturned floorboard. They lined up behind their ruler and Snivvy.

Chapter 13: The March of the Wooden Soldiers

On the opposing side, Karl blew a whistle. The children's toys exited their toy cabinet and joined the ranks. Several wooden soldiers appeared from various nooks and crannies. Everybody marched and went to their stations. They were all ready to face the mice. "Let the fight begin" Karl uttered. "Take cover, my friend" he said to Clara.

"Charge!" The Mouse King bellowed. Both sides, who were evenly matched in terms of numbers, charged towards each other and fought. The forces of good and evil clashed in raging confrontations. The Toy Kingdom's fleet of wooden soldiers and the children's toys managed to fight with flying colors against the mouse army. Few of them were wounded in the process, and those who were received nursing on the sidelines. Several mice were already rendered unarmed, restrained, ensnared in nets and apprehended.

Karl's 4 primary allies definitely did their due diligence. Softy gave a bunch of big, smothering bear hugs to mice, which rendered them unconscious. A hesitant Snivvy ran up to him with his aforementioned, pathetic dagger. "You wouldn't harm a soft, sweet teddy bear, would you?" Softy asked. "No, I wouldn't bring myself to do so" Snivvy replied. He dropped his teeny tiny weapon and ran away.

"Time to use the art of clowning around to my advantage" Jamie muttered to himself. He put banana peels on the floor, which caused a plethora of the horde's members to slip. Jamie pied others in the face and disoriented some with the spraying of a seltzer bottle. "Hope I'm not putting damper on your morning, fellas" he quipped.

The Sugarplum Fairy was a valuable fighter. She utilized her knowledge of dance. "Don't underestimate me" the fairy said to a group of opposing soldiers. She needled, pirouetted into the mice and saute onto their heads. The Sugarplum Fairy tripped mice with her footwork, head banged and knocked out opponents with a multitude of varying kicks, most notably high ones. "Grace and poise has its perks" she chirped.

 Unsurprisingly, the was the team's biggest asset was Albert. He fought with all his might and commanded the troops. "You're doing a grand job thus far, folks. Keep going. Show those rodents we mean business!" he called out. The versed, veteran soldier managed to assist with the apprehending of 40 enemy men, too.

While all this was going on, Karl supervised the activity, intervened when he needed to and would motivate his peers. "Keep fighting for justice. We're grasping the upper hand!" he exclaimed. Clara, who'd been watching the entire time from a safe place, was absolutely blown away by the exciting goings on around her. She too would toss in words of encouragement like "Knock their blocks off!"

Chapter 14: Snivvy's Redemption

The Mouse King did nothing to assist his men. As the fight raged on, he simply sat in a throne, which Snivvy uploaded from the overturned floorboard's hole. Scowling looks crossed his faces. He'd bark out derogatory phrases to describe his own subjects, like "Get them you imbecilic goons!" and "Try harder, moronic pests. At least put in actual effort!". He showed no regard for his soldiers whatsoever.

"I cannot believe that we're actually losing. How is that even possible?!" the aghast villain roared. "Well, they're actually trying hard and have honorable intentions. We're over confident and not as savvy. Your aspirations aren't particularly good faith or moral, either" a brutally honest Snivvy replied. "Don't get impertinent with me of all people, you insufferable infidel. Who even asked for your opinion?" The Mouse King snarled as he whacked Snivvy on his head. "You did just now" Snivvy answered, all while rubbing their hurting cranium.

"Of course you wouldn't understand the concept of a rhetorical question" The Mouse King thundered. "You could've specified what kind of query you were uttering" Snivvy said. "Catering to your idiocy is no task of mine. It's my job to rule over you!" was The Mouse King's response. "Lucky me" Snivvy sarcastically muttered.

Karl, Albert and Clara overheard this conversation and what unfolded next. "Mouth off to me one more time, that wife and children of yours that my mother imprisoned will get it. You'll be sorry!" The Mouse King threatened. "Do I make myself clear?". "Crystal" Snivvy muttered. "That revelation makes so much sense" Albert commented. "No wonder a mouse such as him's on his ruler's side. I knew it couldn't be willing support. He's only evil by association "Clara added. "Snivvy!" Karl called out. The two fellows looked at each other. "You don't have to let Mus treat you like that, it's not worth it. Think of what he's done and the stuff he intends to do. I doubt your family would want you by The Mouse King's side!" Karl continued.

Snivvy took in all of Karl's words carefully, contemplated what to do next and took a deep breath. "You're a hundred percent right" he admitted. His conscience kicked in and he came to his senses. "So, why don't you join our side?" said Karl. "We'd be glad to have you" Clara added. "You wouldn't dare abandon me!" The Mouse King exclaimed. "Actually, I would, Mus. You're a spoiled brat. Your mother was a tyrant. I can no longer stand around and witness your tyranny. Joining them's the right thing to do!" Snivvy replied. He scurried off to join Karl and his fleet. " Treachery!" The Mouse King screamed.

"Glad you've seen the light, lad. Here's a real sword for ya!" Albert said as he passed Snivvy a solid weapon. "Ooh, this is quite exciting" the mouse remarked upon receiving it.

The rest of Karl's fleet welcomed him with open arms. "I had a feeling you were a mouse with a heart" The Sugarplum Fairy" remarked. "You're in with a good crowd now, pal" Jamie proclaimed. Softy declared "We'll be friends from now on". "I can feel the love" Snivvy said.

He started to fight off mouse soldiers, too. When given a sufficient weapon, he was a pretty good fighter. Karl summoned a wooden solder. "Go to The Mouse King's sordid headquarters and free Snivvy's family, please" he requested. The wooden soldier gave a salute and ran off to carry out his task. Karl saluted back. Snivvy overheard this. He put his paw on Karl's shoulder and said "Thanks so much. You're a good fellow. "Isn't he though?" Clara gushed. "Aw, shucks" Karl responded.

Chapter 15: The Battle

By this point in time, the fight started to die down, which enraged The Mouse King. He locked eyes with the gallant Karl. "I'd say it's about time I deal with you!" the mousely monarch declared. "I'll chew you into kindling and burn your remains to celebrate my victory". "Don't even think about it!" scolded Clara, who stepped on his tail and pulled their primary head's ears. "Yow!!!" shouted The Mouse King. "Good strategies" a spectating Snivvy complimented.

The Mouse King shook Clara away and scratched her arm. "Ouch!" Clara cried as she grasped her arm. "Had you cooperated earlier by selling out the nutcracker and his friends, your life wouldn't be on the line right now. Since you didn't surrender sweets as a means of extra extortion, I'll eat you instead, brat!" The Mouse King threatened. He bared his yellowy teeth. This made Clara back away. Karl snuck up on The Mouse King, proclaimed "That won't be happening!" and plucked a whisker. "You want a confrontation, so let's confront each other. Nutcracker to mouse". Karl's intent allies gathered round to watch the action unfold and help Clara dress her scratch wound.

The Mouse King drew a long, jagged, gold handled sword from his belt holster and both fellas dueled. After all, it was their destiny. "Be super careful dueling him Karl!" The Sugar Plum Fairy warned. The Mouse King swung his weapon and repeatedly tried to stab Karl. Their swords clanged. Karl would block his opponents attacks. He'd partake in swift ducks, rolls, prances and jumps. As their battle commended, they bantered.

"This is what you get for murdering my mother!" The Mouse King carped. "I didn't intend to murder Madame Mouserinks, my intention was to stun her. It was self-defense. I tried to protect somebody else, too" Karl responded. "How'd that work out for you?" The Mouse King sarcastically queried. "It obviously backfired, thanks to your mother" Karl replied. "I defended a pretentious princess for nothing. You try being my age and looking like this. My mouth won't completely shut, either!". "Allow me to give you death's sweet release!" uttered The Mouse King.

"You are such a mama's boy" Karl remarked. "I'll get you for that remark!" screamed The Mouse King. Karl struck a blow with his first and knocked out a sharp front tooth from his foe's primary head. Karl's adversary let out a moan of pain. "Oof, that had to hurt!" Softy commented. "Serves him right!" Jamie interjected. "Madame Mouserinks wasn't a particularly good mother, either!" Karl proclaimed. "Just look at how you turned out!" added Clara.

The infuriated mouse king knocked Karl over with the side of his sword. In the process, poor Karl's weapon flew out of their hand. The Mouse King grasped the handle of his sword and raised it over their heads. He aimed the blade at a pinned down Karl. "I have you now. It's my time to triumph. Say goodbye to living you little, wooden fool!" The Mouse King taunted.

"You leave him alone, brute!" Clara ordered. She took off a slipper and hurled it at The Mouse King. It slammed into a temple of his main head. "Ow!" he bellowed. Clara threw the other slipper at him. "Here, take the second!" she said. It whammed into the main head's corresponding temple. This left The Mouse King disoriented. He started wheezing, too.

Snivvy made a dash and stole his former master's sword. "I'm just going to take this!" he uttered. Albert ran and grabbed onto The Mouse King. "Gotcha!" he exclaimed. Hold on tight!" The Sugar Plum Fairy shouted. "Let go of me, dope!" commanded the dizzy mouse king. "I'm holdin' on for dear life" Albert muttered. "Act quickly, Karl!" Softy yelled. "Get 'im while you can!" Jamie said.

Karl picked up his sword and hurried towards The Mouse King, who screamed out "Noooooooooo!". With a direct aim from Karl, his dark heart was pierced. The antagonist shrieked. Karl pulled out his sword and the villain started to sway. With a crash, The Mouse King eventually toppled--Landing on Albert. 7 crowns scattered all over the floor.

Chapter 16: Karl Again

"Let's get you out from under him" Karl said as he helped his friend. "Thank ya kindly, chum" a freed Albert replied. The apprehended mouse soldiers were dragged away by Karl's troops and taken into custody. What was left of the mouse army surrendered or escaped while they could. Albert and Snivvy threw The Mouse King's carcass under the floor boards, they put the removed floorboard back in place, too. Karl's fleet and Clara tidied up some debris. Karl gathered with all his friends. "Clara, you and Albert were mighty effective at bringing down Mus" Snivvy complimented.

"As were you at unarming him" replied a paying it forward Karl. "All of you were sheer heroes out there!" The Sugar Plum Fairy doted. "Ya practically saved Christmas" Jamie said. "For a multitude of people" Softy added. "Well, we couldn't have done it without your help" Karl confessed. "That's a fact" stated Albert. "Thank you, everyone!"

Clara ran to her dearest nutcracker and hugged him. "Thank God you made it out of that battle alive. I'm so relieved". "I've certainly got you to thank for your assistance" Karl replied. "Oh, think nothing of it. I knew we'd pull through in the end, especially with you leading the way. Dash Perilpat for not being able to see your worth or appreciate you" responded Clara, who, in turn, gave her beloved Karl a kiss.

Exactly after, a golden glow emitted from Karl. He floated into the air, hovered and spun around. Karl started to morph. His proportions shrank. Their mouth closed. Karl's hair changed color and shortened. He physically de aged. Karl went from wood to flesh and blood.

Karl drifted back to the floor and his glimmering aura ceased. "Ooh, somebody's back to normal!" exclaimed Softy. "Clara broke Madame Mouserinks spell!" observed Jamie. "You're good as new!" cried Snivyy. The Sugar Plum Fairy fetched a small mirror from her pocket. "Have a look at yourself" she said, handing the mirror to Karl. He looked into the mirror and his faced beamed with joyful glee. "I really am me again! he joyously declared. "You don't know how glad I am to see that face again!" uttered a fighting back tears Albert. "You're so handsome, too!" proclaimed a flabbergasted, attracted, overjoyed on Karl's behalf Clara. "Congratulations on being human once more". This made Karl blush.

"Thank you" a bashful Karl replied. "After being banished, your Uncle Dross, my father, Albert and I consulted Wallace. He told us that 'Your particular transmuting curse may only be broken by a pure hearted soul's kiss of true love'. Drosselmeyer brought me here 'cause he knew we'd connect" "I'm so glad he did!" Clara a touched responded. "It was an honor breaking your curse".

Chapter 17: The Toy Kingdom

"This occasion calls for a celebration" stated The Sugar Plum Fair. "We'll go to the Toy Kingdom to celebrate. "Why don't you and Karl head on there first" Softy said to Clara. "We'll join you two later on" uttered Jamie. "But first, let's take to some time to honor my good buddy Karl" Albert suggested. "Yes, let's!" agreed Clara. Everybody gave Karl a round of applause and standing ovation. "To Karl!" they cheered. Karl responded by saying "You're all too kind". He took a bow, too.

The Sugar Plum Fairy clicked her fingers together. A reindeer drawn sleigh of red and green flew through a magically opened window. It landed before Clara and Karl ."This will take you there" The Sugar Plum Fairy said. "However, first, I'll do this." The fairy generated a wand, seemingly out of nowhere, and waved it. A comfy, laced, complimentary pair of ballet slippers appeared onto Clara's feet.

"Thank you so much" uttered Clara. "You're welcome, dear" replied the fairy. "Those will keep your toes warm". Karl helped Clara inside the sleigh and embarked it himself. Both of them sat down on the plush seating. "We'll see you all soon" Karl said to everyone else. "See ya then" replied Albert. "Have a scenic, safe flight" Snivvy added. The sleigh took off and its duo of passengers waved goodbye. The folks down below waved back. It darted through the opened window, which closed behind them.

The snowflakes led the way. Clara and Karl flew over a lovely grove of ever greens. A pine scent filled the air. The full moon kept on illuminating the sky. They landed in front of a gorgeous, gleaming castle which resembled the toy cabinet from Clara's home. Just as they got there, the wooden solider troops, the Stahlbaum children's toys and Karl's friends arrived.

Everybody went inside and entered the grandly scoped, colorful, majestic ball room. Snivvy was reunited with his now freed family. "Thank heavens we're reunited!" he gushed. They joined a plethora of unique, individualistic toys from all over the world in performing harmonious dances which represented a conglomeration of treats. Some toys performed music on their flutes as well, Softy acted as their bandleader. "Truly masterful playing!" the teddy bear complimented. A bunch of dolls did a special routine, garbed in white, pink and blue outfits. There was a comedic display headlined by Jamie, who did drag and donned a ginormous hoopskirt. Several smaller toys emitted from it "Don't I know how to clown around!" he remarked. Albert led a synchronized march. "This is how we used to do it!" he said. The Sugar Plum Fairy danced a solo. When she'd finished, she uttered "And voila!"

It was Karl's turn to headline a dance. "May I have this dance?" he asked Clara. "It would be my pleasure!" she said in return. Clara took Karl's hand. He guided her to the dance floor. It cleared and the two of them waltzed. Everybody looked on with, completely charmed. Clara and Karl were in a state of bliss.

Chapter 18: Christmas Morning

The next thing Clara knew, she found herself back on the couch. "It must've been a dream" she muttered to herself. "What a magical dream it was". Then, it occurred to Clara that she was wearing the ballet slippers given to her by The Sugar Plum Fairy. Clara let out a gasp. She also noticed that her arm still had bandage on it. "It wasn't all dream!" an overjoyed Clara exclaimed. Her family came into view and walked down the stairway. "Merry Christmas!" they said. Clara reciprocated. "How are you doing this Christmas morn, dear?" William asked.

"Outstanding. It turns out that Uncle Dross's story was true. My nutcracker battled with the dreaded mouse king and defeated him. I met all sorts of folks and saw extraordinary sights" an enthusiastic Clara answered. "The nutcracker turned back into a boy, too. That's why he's not here right now!". Fritz looked gobsmacked by his sister's revelation. Her parents chuckled, smiled and shook their heads.

"Sounds like you experienced an exciting dream" Marie said. This left Clara feeling discouraged. Still, she folded her arms to hide their bandage. "Speaking of your Uncle Dross, he'll be here soon. He went to donate last night's raised money to the poor". William said. "When he returns, we'll eat breakfast and open presents" added Marie. "Him I don't mind waiting for" Fritz uttered. "Your father and I will get a head start prepping the former. See you two children soon" said Marie.

"In retrospect, I can't say I'm surprised by them not believing me" Clara sighed. "What I uttered was pretty far fetched". "I believe you" Fritz said. "Thank you, I appreciate that" Clara replied. "You're welcome. What happened to your arm, by the way?" Fritz asked. "The Mouse King scratched it" Clara revealed. "Hope it heals soon" Fritz uttered. He glanced upon the Christmas tree. "Where are the toys from Uncle Dross?" Fritz queried. "They're actually alive and helped out Karl. I guess they're still at the toy kingdom. That's where we went afterwards". "Oh, that explains it!" an understanding Fritz said.

The children noticed that additional presents were placed beneath the tree. "Look, a note!" Fritz observed. Clara read it. "Dear children, as the house would be occupied, St. Nick entrusted me to give these presents to you. Your stockings are filled to the brim, too. Love, your Uncle Dross". "Of Course Uncle Dross knows St. Nick" Fritz uttered. "I'm not surprised, either" Clara replied. "He must've put these here for heading out".

She noticed items of interest on the floor and picked them up. "Look, Fritz! The Mouse King had 7 heads and wore these crowns. We didn't get around to cleaning them up. Your sword helped Karl out a great deal, too. You can keep all this". Clara handed them off to Fritz, who cried out "Yay! Thanks a bunch". "You may want to wash the sword, though. Karl used it to defeat The Mouse King". "No way!" Fritz blurted out. "The stains make it even neater!". "Alright then" Clara muttered. "At least all this stuff will help mother and father believe you. It's proof" Fritz said. "That is true" Clara agreed.

"It certainly is!" stated Herr Drosselmeyer as he entered the room. The siblings ran up and gave him a hug. "Merry Christmas, darlings!" Herr Drosselmeyer said. "Right back at you. Happy Holidays!" The Stahlbaum children replied. "Clara, I'm sorry The Mouse King followed us here and insisted on fighting. I didn't want you to get caught in the mess" Herr Drosselmeyer apologized. "I know you didn't, apology accepted. You only wanted Karl to be uncursed. That was a noble intention. Thanks for thinking of me. Besides, I was well protected and managed to contribute" responded Clara.

"You certainly did, dear. I heard all about your contributions. Learning them's left me feeling so proud. Incidentally, I've brought friends!" Herr Drosselmeyer said. "William! Marie! Come here, please. Meet my special guests with the children and I". The couple entered the room. "Please allow me to introduce my cousin Claude, his son and their friend Albert!" introduced Herr Drosselmeyer.

"Lovely to meet you all" said a welcoming William. "Welcome to our home" added Marie. "Oh, it's our pleasure to be here. Happy Holidays!" uttered Claude. "Wishing a merry Christmas to you and yours" wished Karl. "And a happy new year, too" continued Albert. "Same to you" said Marie. "I bumped to these fellas in the town this morning" Herr Drosselmeyer explained. "Is it alright if they visit?" he inquired. "Of course!" exclaimed William. "Any friend of Dross's is a friend of ours. The more the merrier!" said Marie. "We're just about to have breakfast and open presents". "We just have to set the table" said William. "Excuse us, please". "The Children's parents exited.

"You fell asleep after our dance" Karl revealed to Clara. "We returned you home safely". "I unshrank you, too" Drosselmeyer added. "Much appreciated" Clara replied. "Karl turned to Fritz and shook his hand. "Thank you for contributing the sword, it really made a difference". "Oh you're welcome, glad I could help out" Fritz replied. A grateful Claude approached Clara. "Thank you so much for returning my boy back to his normal state!". "Much like Karl, you are a hero!" Albert declared. "I second that notion!" Herr Drosselmeyer concurred. "Me 3!" Fritz chimed in. "You're a live saver" Karl proclaimed. "Thank you!". "You're so sweet. The pleasure was all mine!" Clara said.

Clara took Karl under the mistletoe. She gave him an embrace and another kiss. The Sugar Plum Fairy, Snivvy, his freed family, Softy and Jamie subsequently appeared. Fritz loved meeting them. When Marie and William saw all these visitors, they were surprised but welcoming nevertheless. After hearing the full story, both parents learned that Clara was telling them the absolute, real truth. The two of them apologized for not believing her initially. Clara forgave them. Everybody spent the day together, enjoyed each other's company, made memories and had a lovely Christmas dinner. And that's our story. The end.