As an unsuspecting world prepares to celebrate that happiest of holidays Christmas, a powerful

nuclear submarine running silent and deep under the massive polar ice cap makes its way north

to a spot directly below the only

inhabited region in an otherwise desolate world of ice and snow.

Navagational bearings, readout computer.

Navigation readout, computer.

Navigation bearings readout, latitude 90.0 degrees north, longitude zero degrees.

Excellent. Engine room, or engine stop. All engine stop. Proceed with drilling operation.

Drilling operation proceeding.

A powerful laser drill operating through the conning tower cuts a hole straight up through the ice

through which the captain climbs and steps out into the snow-covered streets of the tiny

sleeping village above. Making his way unerringly to the home of the white bearded patriarch of the community,

he bursts in the door gun in hand.

You dare, get up, get up!

What time is it?

Never mind, get up and get dressed.

You're coming with me.

But where?

It isn't time to ride in the reindeer?

No questions, move!

Silently they walked back to the hole on the ice and down into the waiting sun.

The captain wastes no time.

...