Tidas had put Ralph and Arthur in charge of getting the RMC members outside for the surprise. They knew that the tree was being lit up at midnight, which still wasn't for a couple of hours. So most were wondering why they had been brought out early.
All of the Highlanders greeted the soldiers as they began to spread out. Ralph and Arthur had told them that once they were outside they had free rein to talk and enjoy themselves. None of them had understood how they could enjoy themselves in the freezing cold, but grasped the concept as soon as they saw the pary-like atmosphere.
All kinds of delicious smells filled the air, and enticed the soldiers over to the booths first. Hot sandwiches and cocoa were the favorite among the crowds, with whiskey and mead in a close second. Sweets such as pies, cakes, and cookies were handed out as well.
