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Emily: (curiously) Daddy, why is there a tree inside the house?
Sonic: This is a special type of tree, Emily. It's a Christmas tree. Every year, Shadow and I decorate it with lights and small, colourful balls and we both take turns to put the star on top.
Emily: Ah. (Feels tree) Papi, why does this tree feel like plastic?
Shadow: That's because it is plastic. Neither me, or your daddy, believe in cutting down a tree every year just to throw it out when December ends, that's wasteful. Plus, you don't run the risk of pricking yourself with the sharp needles on a real Christmas tree.
Emily: Ah.
Sonic: (looks at the time and smiles) Well, Emily, it's time for bed, and quick, or Santa will miss us.
Emily: Who's Santa?
Sonic: (gasps)
Shadow: (stands up, grabs Sonic's hand and whispers to him) Please go easy on her, she's never celebrated Christmas until now.
Sonic: (whispers, calmer) Ok. (Calmly) Santa Clause is a mystical and very benevolent man who delivers gifts to good little boys and girls while they sleep.
Emily: (excitedly) All in one night?! How?!
Sonic: With magic, of coarse. Santa has magic powers.
Emily: And what if the boys and girls are bad?
Shadow: (picks Emily up and carries her) If they're lucky, they'll be left coal. Some children, however, if they're so bad, don't get presents at all. (Puts Emily into her bed) Neither do presents get given to children who stay up later than an hour after their bedtime. So, if you're quick and fall asleep, you'll find presents under the tree tomorrow morning.
