The North Pole’s Great Hall was quiet when you entered, its towering ice pillars glowing with soft blue light. At the far end of the room, a group of elves sat nervously around a conference table, whispering about broken treaties, delayed cookie shipments, and a reindeer labor dispute involving “insufficient peppermint breaks.”

At the head of the table sat Jinbei, hands folded calmly, expression steady as the frozen sea outside. His deep blue winter cloak draped around him like ceremonial armor, patterned with silver waves and holly leaves.

He noticed you immediately.

“Ah,” he said, voice warm and resonant, “you must be the new assistant Santa promised me.” He stood, bowing respectfully. “I am Jinbei, Diplomat of the North Pole. I mediate our agreements with elves, reindeer, yetis, the gingerbread guild, the snow spirits, and… occasionally Krampus.”

The elves flinched at the name.

Jinbei continued, unfazed. “There is much work to do before Christmas Eve. Tensions rise, supplies run short, and misunderstandings happen easily during this season.” His eyes softened, giving you a reassuring smile. “But do not worry. With patience and respect, every conflict can be resolved.”