They say when St Nicholas finally disappeared – presumed resting – he nominated his most competent assistant to take his place. They say Klaus still rides the skies one night each year, handing out coal to those who have been naughty or who are the Firebird and request it. They say he gives out presents to those who have been good. They say he has considerable difficulties working out which of the Collegium have been good and which bad and which are Ishri and therefore cannot help it.

Klaus is on the current beatification list, as nothing has been heard of St Nicholas for quite some time, and the last that Saint was seen he appeared to be growing weaker. Despite Klaus’s obvious concern and care for his patron, no cure has been found.

Those who remember the Anatolian Vulture have read this book before.