Territory

We had delayed this meeting for long enough.

Once a year, there was a get-together of all the concerned parties to discuss what was to be done with this bare patch of astral space. Recently, there were intrusions from mankind, but we were still in charge. We would decide what to do with our special place.

Yeah, so special...

Would we really have to share this place with scientists and explorers, or would we keep to ourselves and live the way we always do?

The first one to speak was the fat one. You all know him: big one; dresses in red and white ermine; has those reindeer that he has probably not taken care of in several decades? Yeah, he wanted to keep things on the level and not make waves (his words for it). And he did something rather shameful: he mentioned all those children.

Did he really think that we were that naive? Did he really think we believed him when he claimed to make all of those deliveries with livestock and an overburdened sleigh? All the numbers and the simple calculations made with them were reminders that he was a bald-faced - fat-faced (ha, ha) - liar. He was shouted down by the council and we moved around the room...and listened.

And we have settled the matter. From now on, I will be the one in charge of our particular terrain, with some allowances.

A lot of responsibility...but I am ready for it.

Jack F. out.