((Written in 3rd person))

[center]The {True} Story of the Vain Elf[/center]


It was December 15, 2011 and it had been a brutal winter up at the north pole.
[center]"Santa," said the Head Elf as he barged into Santa's cabin, "We are behind schedule by 4682 toys! 4682!!"
"No!" Santa shouted in shock.
"Yes! It's true, if the other elves don't step up their game, Christmas won't be able to happen this year. We are no where near ready!"
"Well, what is the matter?! Why aren't the elves making as many toys as they usually do?"
"It's the weather." Head Elf sighed. He walked over to the window that allowed him to see the Elf's cabins. Numerous elves were trudging through the deep snow and trying to walk against the gusts of wind. "They just can't get to work as easy, and the cold is making them sick! SICK! The elves never get sick!"
"It's that bad?" Santa asked. He walked over to Head Elf who was still peering out the window.
"That bad." Head Elf stated.
Santa sighed and took a seat on the big red recliner sitting by the blazing fireplace. "Tell the others that a meeting will be conducted tonight at 8 PM in the conference room. It is a mandatory meeting; those who don't attend will be exiled at once."
"But what about the ill elves, Santa?"
"Make a list of the sick ones and give it to me before 8 PM, they will be excused."[/center]

Head Elf nodded in understanding and waved goodbye. He opened the door and it was slammed shut by a gust of wind. Mrs. Claus walked into the living room where Santa sat, his head in his hands.

[center]"Santa, is all okay?" She asked worriedly.
"I'm afraid not, our toy production is at it's worst ever and I'm not sure we'll make enough by the time Christmas arrives."
"Sure you will," She beamed, "You've never missed Christmas before, even in tough situations!"
"Well, we've also never been short 4682 toys." Santa sighed. He stood up and looked out the window at the elves. "They're struggling, I feel bad for the poor guys."[/center]

Mrs. Clause put her hand on Santa's shoulder and peered out with him. She sighed deeply and walked back into the kitchen where she was preparing breakfast. Santa threw on his jacket and his hat and went outside. He was tempted to go into the workshop, but decided against it and just went over to the reindeer stalls inste