Let there be light! The god of fire summoned the candles that ran throughout the hallways of the palace at Álfheim to rise, and as his fingers danced to bring forth a flame at each fingertip, the candles of many yule colors began to light, with sparkling flare and an instant warmth. Just as the very brilliant queens had considered, the pine and juniper and cinnamon scents immediately began to fill the air in the hallways.
He opened the doors to the great hall at Álfheim himself, while two of his men stood by, and Freyr turned to look at all the guests and gods who were awaiting his word to begin Jól. His right hand extended to Skadi, who was waiting opposite the crowd, and when she took his offered hand, the hall behind him came alight with flame and a magical glow. The food tables sprawled, the offerings and displays of Jól traditions were in their full glory, and the musicians cued up their festive tune to open the holiday and yearly observation of Yuletide.
"My honored guests," the brogued ruler began, smiling up into his eyes, "Let us be merry! Good fortune has been upon us this year, an' may we pray that our fates shall continue to see such grace and prosperity! Health to our rightful king, Thor, an' to his family!" Appropriate and beloved cheers came. "And may the nine realms be blessed!" The loudest calls of all. His arms fell, the right more slowly with Skadi's lovely hand. "My darling," the ginger god looked just to her, his blond winter woman, and bowed as his arm moved to bring her around him and allow her to enter the hall so they could take their seats at the head, near the roaring fire. Beside their thrones were honorary seats for Thor and Eva, and places for the children of all the rulers. You know... if they wanted a place.