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"description": "[center][b][color=#ff0000]The Mischievous Mistletoe[/color][/b][/center]\n[b][color=#ff0000]Total Stats:[/color][/b]\n[color=#ff0000]Total Parts: 4\nTotal Chapters: 21\nTotal Paragraphs: 1,491\nTotal words: 87,217[/color]\n\n\n[center][b]Bits&Bobs: The Mischievous Mistletoe Pt. IV[/b][/center]\n[b]Stats:[/b]\nChapters: 8\nParagraphs: 542\nWords: 33,630\n\n[b]Synopsis:[/b]\n\n[i]Kyaw is more than he appears and he's got some cards up his sleeves to try and help him and Sven escape Sigmund, Sven's mean older half-brother, but will it be enough for them to escape? The boys will have to work together to have a chance, but new frictions, and new possibilities, begin to emerge in their relationship.[/i]\n\n[b]Featured Music:[/b]\n[i]I like to listen to music to set the mood when I'm writing my stories. For maximal emotional immersion, after you finish Part IV, listen to Outro I and II in that order. Think of them like the music that plays in the end credits of a television show.[/i]\n\n[b]Part IV Outro I:[/b]\n\n[b]Sufjan Stevens - Futile Devices (Doveman Remix)[/b]\nhttps://open.spotify.com/track/5iR8v6fTc33LDo2t4w3342?si=eO_x4yunQGyowl9eKZnRyA\n\nhttps://youtu.be/49jqVRaxfuA?si=z7Zy1xE66pTYk6-E\n\n[b]Part IV Outro II:[/b]\n[b]Lena Raine - Rubedo[/b]\nhttps://open.spotify.com/track/4WSFiuuHYaWI8ZonADPKPX?si=fgr92ohsS-KxAvjqLC7_fw\n\nhttps://youtu.be/HcvKHX6kK6M?si=jAlngR0M5b8O0rTr\n\n[b]Commentary:[/b]\n\nThis was the product of over 20 hours of work. It was difficult as I had to start expanding the characters beyond their limits, but hopefully I've expanded this universe without loosing it's essence. I expected this one to be long, but not quite this long. This is currently the record holder for longest single story submission of mine with a whopping 33k+ words to it's credit. It has conveniently been broken down into 8 chapters. Think of it more like a \"chapter pack\" rather than one big chapter. It will be much more manageable that way. This \"Chapter Pack\" explores some difficult themes, and realistic depictions of bullying and cruelty. It also contains some references to religious traditions and spirituality, and discussions of gender roles. Consider that my content warning. For those not dissuaded, Happy Reading, I certainly enjoyed writing it!\n\nSigned, \n\n[i]Zivrshka[/i]",
"description_bbcode_parsed": "The Mischievous Mistletoe
Total Stats:
Total Parts: 4
Total Chapters: 21
Total Paragraphs: 1,491
Total words: 87,217
Bits&Bobs: The Mischievous Mistletoe Pt. IV
Stats:
Chapters: 8
Paragraphs: 542
Words: 33,630
Synopsis:
Kyaw is more than he appears and he's got some cards up his sleeves to try and help him and Sven escape Sigmund, Sven's mean older half-brother, but will it be enough for them to escape? The boys will have to work together to have a chance, but new frictions, and new possibilities, begin to emerge in their relationship.
Featured Music:
I like to listen to music to set the mood when I'm writing my stories. For maximal emotional immersion, after you finish Part IV, listen to Outro I and II in that order. Think of them like the music that plays in the end credits of a television show.
Part IV Outro I:
Sufjan Stevens - Futile Devices (Doveman Remix)
https://open.spotify.com/track/5iR8v6fTc33LDo2t4w3342?s...
https://youtu.be/49jqVRaxfuA?si=z7Zy1xE66pTYk6-E
Part IV Outro II:
Lena Raine - Rubedo
https://open.spotify.com/track/4WSFiuuHYaWI8ZonADPKPX?s...
https://youtu.be/HcvKHX6kK6M?si=jAlngR0M5b8O0rTr
Commentary:
This was the product of over 20 hours of work. It was difficult as I had to start expanding the characters beyond their limits, but hopefully I've expanded this universe without loosing it's essence. I expected this one to be long, but not quite this long. This is currently the record holder for longest single story submission of mine with a whopping 33k+ words to it's credit. It has conveniently been broken down into 8 chapters. Think of it more like a "chapter pack" rather than one big chapter. It will be much more manageable that way. This "Chapter Pack" explores some difficult themes, and realistic depictions of bullying and cruelty. It also contains some references to religious traditions and spirituality, and discussions of gender roles. Consider that my content warning. For those not dissuaded, Happy Reading, I certainly enjoyed writing it!
Signed,
Zivrshka",
"writing": "[center][b][i][color=#00bf00]The Mischievous Mistletoe[/color][/i][/b][/center][center][b][i][color=#ff0000]Pt. IV[/color][/i][/b]\n[b][i][color=#00bf00]Hide & Seek[/color][/i][/b][/center]\n[center][color=#ff0000]*[b]14[/b]*[/color][/center]\n[b][color=#ff0000]1[/color][/b] Kyaw in fact did have a plan, or at least, he had a few cards up his sleeve he had in mind that might allow them to give Sigmund the slip.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]2[/color][/b] Although the Bits had only been there for three days, Kyaw and his cousins were sure to fully explore the grounds and all it's nooks and crannies. There was in fact an elaborate system of caves and tunnels beneath the town and Kyaw had spent some time with Skipsy exploring them not but the other day.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]3[/color][/b] First things first though, they needed to be able to see Sigmund without Sigmund seeing them.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]4[/color][/b] Kyaw climbed on top of the compost bin in the corner of the garden, although it was completely covered in snow and he didn't know it was a compost bin. Still Kyaw knew that it was firm and that was all that mattered.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]5[/color][/b] \"What are you doing?!\" Sven whispered nervously. \"Scouting\" is all the rabbit said, shielding his eyes with his palm from the glaring sun and scanning the area.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]6[/color][/b] \"He's going to see you!\" Sven protested. \"Not if I see him first\" Kyaw dismissed. Kyaw put his foot onto the fence to lift himself up to get a better view. \"Should you be doing that?\" Sven fussed. \"Shush!\" was all the rabbit said in return. \"Don't shush me!\", Sven said crossly, but now was not a good time to start a squabble so Kyaw ignored him.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]7[/color][/b] Sven stood there nervously staring at the backdoor afraid that the owners might come out at any moment and start complaining and give away their position.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]8[/color][/b] \"Sugar!\" Kyaw said climbing down hastily. \"What?!\" Sven said. \"I saw him. He's snooping around the houses looking for us\". Great. \"Did he see you?!\" Sven asked. \"No.\" Kyaw said flatly, \"He was looking the other way checking behind the other house.\" Kyaw paused, his nose and tail twitching as he considered their options.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]9[/color][/b] \"We've got to make a run for it! Back to the Rec Center\" Kyaw said grabbing his friends paw. \"WHAT!?\" Sven blurted out.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]10[/color][/b] Kyaw headed over to the gate and was about to unfasten to lock, when Sven grabbed Kyaw by the shoulders and attempted to pull him back. \"Huh?\" Kyaw said looking at his friend.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]11[/color][/b] \"There you are!\" Kyaw heard Sigmund blurt out and turning around he saw Sigmund start into a gallop towards the gate!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]12[/color][/b] It took a moment for Kyaw to get over his shock. \"We're trapped!\" Sven said. That knocked Kyaw out of it. \"No we aren't\" he said, grabbing Sven's paw to the backdoor and knocking on it as hard as he could. Sven barely had any time to be shocked by this action cause Kyaw then jumping up onto the Compost bin again and pulling him up. \"We gotta climb!\" is all he said.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]13[/color][/b] At that moment Sigmund was already rumbling the gate desperately trying to get it open. He was prepared to bust it if he had to.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]14[/color][/b] Kyaw put his footpaw on the gate and glomped onto the roof. Sven wouldn't have dared to climb on someone's roof under normal circumstances, but right now he was too desperate to escape to protest. Kyaw started helping Sven up onto the roof just as Sigmund lost his patience and burst open the gate by sheer force.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]15[/color][/b] Sigmund wasted no time trudging towards the boys and nearly grabbed Sven by the foot paw just before he got completely up onto the roof. The boys started shimmying across the roof to put distance between them and Sigmund.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]16[/color][/b] Just then the owner of the house, an Old and very large Beaver, burst out the backdoor. He'd heard the knock, the rumbling of his gate and some noises on his roof.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]17[/color][/b] The Old Beaver saw Sigmund attempting to scramble up onto his Compost bin, and he was not happy about it, let me tell you! \"What in tarnation are you doin' in my garden!?\", the boys heard the Old Beaver shout.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]18[/color][/b] \"GET DOWN!\", The Old Beaver shouted, but Sigmund just ignored him and stood up onto the compost bin and put his footpaw onto the fence to get onto the roof. He smiled a cocky grin. The boys paused staring at their aggressive pursuer. \"Now what?\" Sven whispered. Kyaw looked down and saw it was a long drop to the dirt road below. Then he looked back at Sven. \"We gonna have to climb over the roof. Get ready.\" Kyaw whispered.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]19[/color][/b] Just then the Old Beaver grabbed Sigmund by his hoody. \"HEY! Get off me you old coot! I don't know you from Adam!\" Sigmund shouted struggling to get free.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]20[/color][/b] \"Quick climb the roof!\" Kyaw commanded as he began to scale the small pointed roof. How do I get myself into these situations Sven wondered, but dutifully started to make his way up the roof.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]21[/color][/b] \"Shit! they're getting away. LET GO!\" Sigmund said as he struggled. Finally he decided to jump off the compost bin releasing himself in the process and heading towards the gate. \"Hey, young man, who are you?! What's this all about!?\". \"None of your business ... on both counts!\" Sigmund fired back rudely as he rushed to the other side.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]22[/color][/b] \"We gotta slide down\" Kyaw said grabbing Sven's paw. \"Wha-\" was all Sven managed to get out as Kyaw pulled him down. They slide down the roof and landed on a large and soft pile of snow. Just then Sigmund peaked out from the gate. \"Ha! Nice try!\" he mocked. 'Crap! How the heck were they going to shake him?', Sven thought. His brother was older and faster than them, despite his rotund disposition.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]23[/color][/b] \"Run!\" Sven said as he tried to pull him and Kyaw through the heavy two-and-a-half foot deep layer of snow. Sigmund was already climbing up onto the snow bank, and was about to spring towards them. \"Jump!\" Kyaw said, and with that both of them prepared to jump out of the snow bank. Sigmund jumped and a moment later so did Kyaw and Sven. They managed to leap frog themselves out of the snow bank onto a shoveled dirt path. \"Quick, follow me!\" Kyaw said as he grabbed Sven's paw and ran around the house as quick as a rabbit scuttling away for it's life ... because he was!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]24[/color][/b] Rather than trudge slowly through the high snow Sigmund prepared another jump and then stumbled onto the dirt path. Getting himself up he rounded the corner of the house he'd seen them run behind, but when he got there all he saw was a fence looking out onto nothing ... well not nothing but not Kyaw and Sven. He hopped over to the fence to get a better look and surveyed the area. \"Where the fuck did they go?\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]25[/color][/b] Little did Sigmund know they were right under his nose! Kyaw and Sven had climbed down the fence and were now pressed up against a little nook just under the fence, trying their damnedest to stifle their uneven breathing. Once again Sven found himself pressed against the soft fur of the bunny boy which he could feel even under his thick clothes, and once again despite it slightly distracting Sven he knew he had to stay focused on the present situation. Kyaw for his part was holding onto Sven's paw for dear life to calm his nerves. He may have had plans of escape but that didn't mean he wasn't still terrified of getting caught off guard by Sigmund. He still remembered what it was like getting chased down and pinned to that fence the first time he'd encountered him.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]26[/color][/b] A minute went by that felt like an hour, but eventually Sigmund skulked off trying to figure out where they might have gone.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]27[/color][/b] \"Listen Sven. We've got to - run back into - the Rec Center, it's our only chance. I know - a secret passage\" Kyaw said between labored breaths. Sven raised a skeptical eyebrow. \"I'm serious. It's no fib, come on\". With that the boys made a run for it towards the stairs they'd walked up when they had approached the Rec Center for the first time.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]28[/color][/b] Just then Sigmund turned around to spot them running. \"What the hell?!\" he said as he ran and gripped the fence rails. He wasn't prepared to jump down though, onto the dirt path. He'd have to go the long way around. \"He saw us!\" Sven said. \"Just keep running\" Kyaw said as they galloped up the stairs.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]29[/color][/b] Both boys were becoming hopelessly exhausted and sooner or later Sigmund was definitely gonna catch 'em at this rate. Sven's mind was full of panic. Kyaw on the other hand wasn't totally panicked ... yet. But that's because he knew a surefire way to lose Sigmund for a little bit that would give them a breather to get their bearings back. Technically they'd still be trapped but at least they could rest.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]30[/color][/b] The boys were practically falling over their own footpaws as they tripped themselves into the door of the Rec Center, using it to brace themselves and regain their balance, but there was no time to relax, Sigmund had just rounded the corner and was charging towards them at top speed!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]31[/color][/b] \"You've got nowhere to run pipsqueaks!\" Sigmund taunted as he stopped at the big steps looming over them threateningly. The boys had paused to catch their breath and assess the situation.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]32[/color][/b] Kyaw knew they somehow had to get back to the wine cellar room which was on the opposite end of the Rec Center somehow with enough time to escape Sigmund's grasp and have time to hide. It wouldn't do to simply go through the front doors and make a run for it. Some misdirection was in order!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]33[/color][/b] Kyaw began to whisper some instructions into Sven's ear, \"We've gotta meet up in the wine cellar, here's what we're gonna do\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]34[/color][/b] Sigmund didn't like seeing the way Kyaw was pressed right up against Sven all intimately. \"HEY! This ain't no time for whispering sweet nothing's\" Sigmund said as he hopped down from the stairs. As far as he was concerned his quarry was cornered.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]35[/color][/b] Rather than quiver in fear though the boys began to take action. Kyaw ran behind the building while Sven ran to the snow bank and grabbed some snow. Sigmund catching on began to lunge towards Sven only to get pelted by snowballs. Sigmund blocked his face. \"Knock that off pissant!\" he shouted angerly. \"Come and get me jerkoff!\" Sven said as he also rounded the corner of the Rec Center.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]36[/color][/b] Sigmund rounded the corner as fast as his lard ass could, but when he got there he saw no one. He then noticed the double doors on the other side of the building ... but before he could grab the handle to open it he got pelted by another snowball. \"hehe\" he heard. It was Sven. He turned around to see a giddy look on Sven's face. Sven had a little moment of joy. It wasn't like him to laugh cheerfully like that and he was a little surprised himself. When his mean older half-brother gave him that stare though all that joy left him in an instant. He gulped.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]37[/color][/b] \"I'm getting those fucking keys you little asshole even if I gotta pry them from your cold dead fingers!\" he said as he leaped towards Sven.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]38[/color][/b] This was, of course, all part of the plan. Sven had served as the distraction and misdirection while Kyaw had gone through the side doors and had already made his way down the basketball court at top speed. He was already waiting in the wine cellar, waiting for Sven to join him. That didn't change the fact that this still put Sven primarily in harms way. Just as an extra precaution though, Sven had already given the keys to Kyaw so even if Sigmund managed to catch him he'd find nothing. All Sven had to do now was gain a lead on his brother.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]39[/color][/b] Sven had a good plan for how to do that himself though. He hopped around the deep snow around another house, and Sigmund foolishly attempted to follow him. His brother could leap further but Sven was lighter and was able to hop quicker. Still every time Sigmund jumped Sven's heart would freeze. His older brother was determined to get his paws on him and was clearly mad about the snowballs.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]40[/color][/b] \"Imma ram this snow down your throat punk!\" he scolded.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]41[/color][/b] Sven had to be sure not to get too far ahead of Sigmund, or else he might encourage him to go another way. Timing was everything. He needed Sigmund to follow him so he knew exactly where he was, but not so close that he would know what Kyaw and Sven were planning. Kyaw had been right. The best strategy was to let Sigmund chase them.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]42[/color][/b] Finally Sven found himself within a bounds distance of the path. On a whim he turned around back at his brother still sunk deep into the snow with his large weight and waved. \"Toodle-loo!\" he said. 'How fucking gay', thought Sigmund. With that Sven made an especially big leap on to the dirt and began to run. \"HEY! HEEEEY!\" Sigmund bellowed as his little brother was making a hasty get away. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]43[/color][/b] He'd been so focused on getting revenge on his little brother that it hadn't even crossed his mind yet that Kyaw was no where in sight, apparently vanished. Sigmund began to prepare himself to make his biggest leap yet to get himself out of the snowbank. With one clean leap he tumbled out from the snow, and got himself up shakily. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]44[/color][/b] Just as he got himself up, he got pelted with another snowball, and then another. He looked up, and Sven was standing atop the stairs looking down at him, just as Sigmund had done to Sven and Kyaw a few moments ago. \"You are just a big bully Sig!\" Sven shouted at his brother.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]45[/color][/b] Sigmund paused to catch his breath. A moment of clarity came. \"I know you are just protecting him!\" Sigmund shouted.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]46[/color][/b] \"Who?\" Sven said. \"Don't play dumb, you know exactly who I fuckin' mean! You want me to leave him alone, huh?! Well then, give me the goddamn motherfucking keys right now!\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]47[/color][/b] Crap. This wasn't part of the plan. Sven's plan was to get Sigmund to chase him and meet up with Kyaw first. At least he didn't know where he was.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]48[/color][/b] \"Come and get 'em then lard ass!\" shouted Sven with all the meanness he could muster ... which wasn't much. He wasn't really a mean kid at heart. 'That'd get him', Sven thought.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]49[/color][/b] \"He ran off into the Rec Center didn't he?\" Sigmund said with a confident smirk as he approached the double doors. Sven flinched. He'd not expected that. \"He is, isn't he. I can see it on your silly pale face. Now ... give me the keys Sven.\" he said slowly and deliberately as he signaled with his paw for Sven to come over.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]50[/color][/b] What should Sven do? This was bad. Involuntarily Sven started to make tentative steps towards Sigmund, seemingly compelled to comply, even though he knew he didn't even have the keys on him. But he was genuinely afraid for Kyaw and anything to stall the situation was preferable to thinking what would happen if Sigmund ran down that hall directly towards the cellar room. He'd find Kyaw waiting there expecting Sven, and he'd probably get caught and then who knows what would happen.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]51[/color][/b] Sven had only one gambit left to play. Instead of approaching his brother or saying anything taunting he ran for the other double doors at the other corner of the Rec Center. Sigmund figured Sven was making a run to protect his friend. The best option now was to chase him down. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]52[/color][/b] Both boys opened the double doors at the same time with both of them on opposite ends of the baseball court. Sven found himself at top a set of stairs; because of the change in elevation, the doors on his side we're higher than Sigmund's side.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]53[/color][/b] Sven ran at top speed letting go of any fear and added a hop to add even further momentum to his jump. His feet never touched even a single step! Kangaroos are excellent jumpers though and Sven knew what he was doing. He hit the ground running heading at top speed for the doors leading to the pool room. His plan was simple. If he made it look like he was absolutely determined to get there first, Sigmund would assume that was where Kyaw was hiding and would follow him there.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]54[/color][/b] Sigmund saw his brother dashing across the court at top speed and began running diagonally across the court to intercept his brother at the door.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]55[/color][/b] \"Hey man what the hell!\" a wolf cub said as Sigmund practically ran into him while a game was going on. But Sigmund was not deterred. He had no shame. His eyes were laser focused on his wimpy little brother and he was determined to tackle him right then and there in full view of the other visitors if he had to. He did not give a fuck. He'd tell them off and tell them it was a family affair and none of their business. As far as Sigmund was concerned, he was in the right and Sven was in the wrong. He'd lied about going to get his mittens to run off and he'd swiped the keys. He was just the enforcer of his parents wishes, or at least, that's how he rationalized his aggression. This was the perfect opportunity to have an excuse to be as rough as he wanted with his little brother and still be on the right side of his parents. He hated when his mom started to see Sven's dad, how she insisted on seeing him even after Sigmund found out and protested. Forced him to keep it a secret. How when Sven was born and got a little older, Sven's father wanted to move to the Americas, supposedly to give Sven a chance at a better future. Sven was everything that went wrong in Sigmund's life. The least he could do was return the favor ...\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]56[/color][/b] Sigmund was blundering towards Sven with the force of a cargo truck! At this point there was nothing that was going to stop him except a sold brick wall ... which he was fast approaching! Still despite the speed and ferocity with which Sigmund sprinted across the court, he was still traveling along the diagonal and so Sven was poised to make it to the doors just a little sooner.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]57[/color][/b] Sven ran into the door at full force. He was smart though. He used the door to quickly stop himself but also slammed into only one of the double doors so he could quickly open the other one and escape through it, darting at a nearly right angle towards the doors that led to the cellar.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]58[/color][/b] In that moment Sigmund realized that Sven had most likely misdirected him and was probably headed towards the cellar room. He screeched himself to a halt and tried his damnedest to change direction. He was going to head for the other door and attempt to cut Sven off.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]59[/color][/b] Sven wasted no time getting through the first set of doors which thankfully opened inward, allowing him to bust through them. Next he slammed his body against the next set of double doors allowing himself to quickly open the next set of doors.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]60[/color][/b] With that Sven burst into the wine cellar and saw Kyaw standing there beside a set of trapped doors. \"Sig is almost here!\" Sven said breathlessly. \"Jump down!\" Kyaw said as he jumped down into the trapped doors. Sven followed suit and without a moment to spare Kyaw shut them back up just as Sigmund burst through the other set of doors ...\n\n[center][color=#00bf00]*[b]15[/b]*[/color][/center]\n[b][color=#00bf00]61[/color][/b] They could hear Sigmund bursting in, creaking the wooden floor planks above their heads. They both covered each others mouths as their hearts raced in lockstep. He was right above them and he didn't even know it! Oh how they hoped that he wouldn't notice the trapdoors just inches away from his footpaws!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]62[/color][/b] \"Where the fuck they'd go?!\" they could hear Sigmund say. They heard several doors open and close. 'Had they gone back outside?', Sigmund thought. Sigmund opened the double doors and looked up and down the length of the Rec Center. Nothing. He looked through the window to the Pool Room. Nothing. He looked upwards to the ceiling. Could they have gone back up to the Arcade? But that would trap them and bring them back to square one. Could they really be that stupid? Or maybe they figured he wouldn't check there? Hm. Sigmund went to go check under the pool tables. He'd checked there last time they disappeared, but maybe that was their plan this time. Sven and Kyaw could hear Sigmund as he walked across the rooms. \"Damnit!\" They heard him shout as he slammed his paw on one of the pool tables in frustration. That made them jump. Still, it looked like he had no clue where they were. The boys slowly pulled their paws away from each others mouths. For the moment at least, it looked like they were in the clear. Phew! They breathed a sigh of relief.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]63[/color][/b] Sven was the first to speak. \"Now what?\". Kyaw for his part still had his ears perked up listening carefully to Sigmund's every movement. A few moments passed until Kyaw finally began to relax. \"I think we'll be safe. Still lets hide in the back just in case.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]64[/color][/b] \"Come on\" Kyaw said grabbing Sven by the paw and gently leading him through the underground cellar. Sven for once did not fuss with his paw being held. He was more interested in his surroundings and current predicament. \"What is this place?\" he asked absent mindedly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]65[/color][/b] \"A wine cellar ... I think. They keep all the best stock in the basement to keep it nice and cool in the summer. Heat can damage a good wine ya know.\" he explained as they passed by racks and racks of wine bottles.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]66[/color][/b] \"How do you know all this stuff? Aren't we too young to drink this kind of stuff?\" Sven asked. \"I've had a little bit of wine before. It tastes kind of bitter.\" Kyaw said nonchalantly, \"besides one day one of us is going to have to take over the shop for mama and Aunt Augie, so we need to know these sorts of things. They sell all kinds of goods. Anything they can get their hands on. Anything that'll sell. That's how we make our living. Wine is just one of our specialties.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]67[/color][/b] \"Kids aren't suppose to drink wine.\" Sven protested. \"It's only a little sip. It's really no big deal.\" Kyaw said. Sven was beginning to get nervous in the cold dark and spooky basement. \"Are we really even suppose to be down here? Aren't these wine bottles valuable? Couldn't someone just swipe one of them?\" Sven asked concerned.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]68[/color][/b] \"Well lucky for us [i]somefur[/i] forgot to lock this place up. hehe.\" Kyaw said playfully. The thought crossed Kyaw's mind that he might come back here later to swipe a bottle for his mama, but then he thought about it and thought she'd probably scold him. The Bits were cut-throat but they weren't crooks. They liked to run their business affairs legitimately. That said, they probably wouldn't mind negotiating prices to buy up some of the Inn's stock if they were amenable to such an arrangement. Perhaps Kyaw would mention it to his mom.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]69[/color][/b] \"Not locked up?! Then we [i]really[/i] shouldn't be here! Come on Kyaw\" Sven began as he started to tug on Kyaw's paw in the opposite direction, \"Let's get out of here before we get in trouble\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]70[/color][/b] \"We're GONNA BE in [i]trouble[/i] if we go out there and your mean brother catches us. We are perfectly safe here. No one is going to check down here until the sun goes down. The Yule log isn't til sundown.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]71[/color][/b] \"You don't know that. Someone could come down to check here at any moment.\" Sven continued to protest. Kyaw had stopped moving and Sven was continuing to tug on Kyaw's paw. It was beginning to irritate Kyaw.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]72[/color][/b] \"If someone comes then we'll just hide. Easy.\" Kyaw said flippantly, a tiny bit of his irritation seeping through his words.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]73[/color][/b] \"Yeah, everything is easy with you, no worries, no responsibilities, no rules ...\" Sven said sarcastically.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]74[/color][/b] \"Ugh! Why can't you just [i]relax[/i]?!\" Kyaw burst out in exasperation. \"You care too much about following rules!\" Kyaw blurted out. As much as he loved Sven, he was beginning to chafe against Kyaw's free wielding spirit.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]75[/color][/b] \"Yeah? Well you care too little about 'em. You think you're [i]soooo[/i] special and 'the rules' don't apply to you.\" Sven said as he raised his paws in mock celebration.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]76[/color][/b] \"I don't think I'm special. I just think the rules are dumb and shouldn't apply to anyone. You are so worried about what everyone thinks. Well, what do you think? Huh Sven?\" Kyaw defended.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]77[/color][/b] \"What do I think? Well ... I think ... I think ... [i]you[/i] don't think enough about why the rules are there in the first place. That's what I think. Hmph.\" Sven said folding his arms.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]78[/color][/b] \"Oh please, like you've spent any time thinking about 'the rules'. You just follow 'em because you've never spent any time thinking about whether they should even be followed in the first place!\" Kyaw said clenching his little fists at his sides in frustration.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]79[/color][/b] \"What in 'the rules' are we even talking about Kyaw?! What kind of conversation are we even having right now!?\" Sven said feeling exasperated by this conversation.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]80[/color][/b] \"Oh forget it!\" Kyaw said with a stomp. \"Just come on.\" Kyaw said as he grabbed his friends paw and tugged. Sven resisted. \"Where are you even going?!\" Sven said still unsure.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]81[/color][/b] \"Did you think I didn't have a plan? There is another way out of here Sven! Now Come on ... I'm only trying to help you! There is a way we can sneak back to your families station wagon without your brother seeing us. We've just got to be a little wary. Now please, can you just trust me a little and follow me.\" Kyaw said pleadingly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]82[/color][/b] Sven could see that tinge of hurt in Kyaw's eyes, and he couldn't help but want to please him. Ideally Sven wanted everyone to be happy with him, but he knew that realistically that was not always feasible. You can't please everyone all the time, but then of course the difficult question arises, whom should one please? That was a question Sven hated to answer, and Sven didn't even want to [i]begin[/i] to think about what he might actually want himself! It was hard enough pleasing everyone else, let alone himself. Maybe that's why he loved Kyaw. He made him ask himself, what makes him happy? And was that really such a wrong question to ask? Shouldn't one at least ask it? Instead of always stuffing it down like Sven felt he had to.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]83[/color][/b] \"Alright Kyaw\" Sven said gently squeezing Kyaw's paw. \"You're right, I'm just being overly cautious. Lead the way mate\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]84[/color][/b] Kyaw blushed, although it was impossible to tell in that dark damp cold cellar. Mainly he blushed at being referred to as Sven's \"mate\". What did he mean by that? Was he saying they were actually ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]85[/color][/b] \"Sven ... why do you ... uh ...\" he began unsure he really wanted to know the answer.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]86[/color][/b] \"Huh? What is it?\" Sven said confused. \"um ... nevermind. Thanks. Follow me\" Kyaw simply said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]87[/color][/b] With that he lead Sven to the other end of the cellar. It got darker and darker the further they got. Just when it got to the point where it seemed like it might go on forever, Kyaw walked into the other wall; a solid block of concrete forming the foundation of the Rec Center. Kyaw then began to feel his way to the right, following the wall, feeling around in the dark. \"It should be around here somewhere\" he said more to himself than to Sven.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]88[/color][/b] The wine cellar gave way, the shelves abruptly ending to reveal piles of discarded Christmas decorations. Very old and lonely stuff, stuff that perhaps should have been thrown out long ago but which no one had the heart to, or more likely cared enough to bother. A ghostly aura emanated from the lonely things in the back, the old forgotten spirits of many a Christmas past, silently speaking of old and ancient rites of the season. Sven felt it, but did not understand it. How the winter could be a very scary and lonely time, the harbinger of death, the haunting possibility of a never ending winter, the death of the sun, of the spirit world mingling with the world of flesh and blood, with the ethereal, the imagined, and phantasmal, seeming to come into focus and feel ... real ... during this one special time of year. It was creepy. It seemed to somehow get even colder the closer they approached it. Sven sensed something eerie just waiting for them around the corner and became increasingly uncomfortable.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]89[/color][/b] None of this was unfamiliar to Kyaw however. He'd been raised in the \"old ways\", of telling ghost stories by the fire in the dead of winter, while the winds of winter howled their ghostly howls, threatening all who dared to go out in the night to be shallowed up and lost forever. The only safety was the magic circle of protection brought about by the family huddled together with only the fire to create light and a few stray candles. It was a dark and sacred time, a time to remember the old ways to give the old Gods strength to return and bring the world of light back. Santa was nothing more than a bastardization of Odin, the babe in swaddling clothes in the manager just the shadow of the birth of Sol Invictus. This is what Kyaw had been taught. To him, Christmas was ancient and mysterious, and there was always a dark underbelly to the holiday that their little town with it's bright and cheery lights and decorations was unaware of. 50 year old Christmas decorations somehow embodied this perfectly. When the bright lights were extinguished all that was left was that cold emptiness that had claimed so many lives in the past, and their ghosts were here haunting this very place.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]90[/color][/b] Sven didn't like these feelings and in spite of himself was actually feeling a bit afraid. There was a strange howling wind and the cold was biting and unnatural. How could it be so cold? Why in this corner in particular?\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]91[/color][/b] \"Let's turn back\" he said, having had his fill of this creepy place.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]92[/color][/b] \"Relax, we are almost there\" Kyaw said pulling his unwilling friend along. If anyone saw Sven now they'd probably be laughing at him. Here we was with his paw next to his mouth shivering and looking around as if he were seeing things and hearing things. He was being a lily livered coward. Imagine, the Star of The Valley Kits being afraid of the dark! But this place inexplicably gave him the creeps. Maybe the old spirits of Christmas weren't too happy being ignored and forgotten, like these cold forgotten relics of the Inn's early history. If these old decorations could speak what would they say? No doubt they would speak of the golden days of the Inn when they were in full display and they were bright and new. Now they were dirty and broken and had been left to die slowly alone. When you constantly run away from your own shadows the fears do not diminish, they grow. While Sven did not understand his fears on a conscious level on an unconscious level he could sense all his anxieties that he was so desperate to get away from down here. Perhaps in some deep corner of his mind he knew that young boys could do unspeakable things down here and no one would be the wiser. Whose to say such things had not happened before? And that creeped him out and made him fear himself. As uncomfortable as this made him, still, he held tightly onto Kyaw's paw. It's warmth was comforting to him. At least in the dark no one could see him holding on for dear life.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]93[/color][/b] Something haunting was slowly coming into view and into focus.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]94[/color][/b] \"AHHH!\" Sven screamed out! Kyaw instinctively covered Sven's mouth to stifle the sound. \"Are you crazy? Sigmund might hear us!\" Kyaw shout whispered. Sven pointed ahead in horror.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]95[/color][/b] After the last set of wine racks, on top of a massive pile of broken christmas decorations was a very large and imposing sleigh with a massive figure atop it, and realistic reindeer were pulling it, only they looked more like corpses than living breathing elk, but that wasn't the most frightening thing. One of their faces had rotted away revealing a reindeer skull underneath. The whole thing was a morbid mockery of the christmas Sven knew. A parody of the mirth and good cheer of the season with a frightening monument to death and decay.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]96[/color][/b] \"Is that a dead animal?\" Sven asked in hushed horror. Kyaw walked up to it to inspect it closer. When he seen it up close and touched it with his own hands he hopped down and said \"It's taxodermied.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]97[/color][/b] \"Huh? What's that?\" Sven said frightened. \"Uh, you can relax Sven it won't bite.\" Kyaw said sarcastically. Sven frowned. \"They use the skin of the deer and stuff it with wool and sometimes they keep the bones as well to give it structure. Looks like these haven't been well preserved. Probably cause it gets damp down here.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]98[/color][/b] \"Why didn't they just make 'em out of plastic molds.\" Sven said disgusted. \"Cause they didn't have plastic molds like that back then, and besides these look real. Anyway nevermind that\". With that Kyaw walked over to the wall and sniffed the air as he slowly moved along it.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]99[/color][/b] \"Ah! Here's the spot. They tried to hide it with some junk but me and Skipsy found it. Listen\" Kyaw said pointing up his ears. A light whistling sound could be heard and a cold breeze shivered them to their bones, almost as if it were supernatural.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]100[/color][/b] \"It's right behind this Christmas tree. Here, help me move it\" Kyaw said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]101[/color][/b] The boys began working together to push the tree out of the way, and finally managed to throw it over to the other side. They were rewarded with a cold blast of wind. Sven saw a pitch blackness the likes of which he'd never seen, a black hole right in the foundation in the wall.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]102[/color][/b] \"You don't seriously expect us to go through there, do you?\" Sven said worried.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]103[/color][/b] \"A course!\" Kyaw pipped up.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]104[/color][/b] \"But you don't even know where it leads!\" Sven said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]105[/color][/b] \"Yes I do. Otherwise why would I show it to you.\" Kyaw tried to reason. \"I could think of a reason\" Sven said suspiciously. \"Huh?\" Kyaw said not understanding Sven's implication. \"Never mind. Where does it lead then?\" Sven tried to change the subject. \"Outside a course. That's why it's so cold here. All the cold wind funnels through this narrow tunnel. It's probably what caused that reindeer to rot\" Kyaw explained. \"Don't remind me\" Sven chimed in. \"Anyway, once we get out we will be a good distance from the Rec Center, and the snow will provide cover for us. Sigmund won't be able to see us.\" Kyaw reassured.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]106[/color][/b] Sven considered this. \"I don't know. It looks really small and dark. Couldn't we get lost in there?\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]107[/color][/b] \"We just need to take it slow and feel our way around.\" Kyaw reassured. \"Couldn't there be a deep pit we might fall in?\" Sven continued to question. \"Nu uh. Me and Skipsy came back after we first found it and explored it thoroughly with a flash light. It just goes down for a bit and then straight back up.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]108[/color][/b] Sven gulped. \"Do you - have a flash light with you right now?\". Kyaw just shook is head no silently. Great. They would have to crawl through complete darkness to get to the other end. Sven couldn't help but feel like some malevolence was waiting down there for him. He could believe anything at this moment. Maybe they'd meet up with the legendary abominable snow man and this was his lair. His imagination was running wild. You'll have to remember Sven was only six. A child's imagination can be quite vivid. Enough to believe in Christmas magic ... and mischief.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]109[/color][/b] \"I - don't think I can do this\" Sven finally said. \"Yes you can. Come on Sven, you are the bravest boy I know!\" Kyaw said encouragingly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]110[/color][/b] \"Brave?!\" Sven said surprised. \"I'm - not - brave. I'm a coward. You are the brave one. I can't even do half the stuff you do ...\" he said. He'd never admit to being a coward to any other boy, but it felt okay to tell Kyaw this, Kyaw wasn't exactly a [i]boy boy[/i], right?\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]111[/color][/b] \"But you are brave Sven. Don't you know that?\" Kyaw said as he grabbed both Sven's paws and put them together. \"Sven I wish I was as brave as you? Don't you know how many times you've come to save me? You stood up to that raccoon boy, and you stood up to your big mean brother. Whenever I was in danger you didn't even hesitate to stand up to boys twice your size. I'm the coward Sven, honest. I never speak up for myself, I'm always too shy to speak to boys. I - I think you are amazing Sven.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]112[/color][/b] Sven began to blush and some warmth began to glow from inside. Kyaw's words touched him. He was not use to such praise. All he ever felt was that he was never good enough. That he always had to strive and do better and work harder. To him it was nothing. It was just what he had to do.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]113[/color][/b] \"What choice did I have? I couldn't let them hurt you. It's nothing really.\" he tried to dismiss.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]114[/color][/b] \"No no, you don't understand Sven. It's everything to me. No one has ever stood up for me like that before.\" Kyaw said as he came closer to Sven. \"And if you are willing to risk yourself like that ... for me ... it must mean ... it must mean you ...\" Kyaw trailed off, unable to say the last part. A cold howling wind beckoned the boys onward.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]115[/color][/b] There was one thing Sven feared more than the dark ... and that was admitting his feelings ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]116[/color][/b] \"Alright. Come on let's go.\" he said pretending to be brave and walking past Kyaw towards the empty void. Kyaw turned around to see Sven smile towards him and beckon him forward. Perhaps it was for the best. Sven would admit his feelings in his own time, thought Kyaw.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]117[/color][/b] \"I've got to lead the way silly\" Kyaw said as he grabbed Sven's paw and climbed into the darkness. He poked his head out and added \"We'll have to hold hands the whole way. Otherwise we might get lost and separated\". \"I know\" said Sven. Why this had needed to said wasn't explicitly said, but both boys knew they were testing each other. Kyaw knew Sven was uneasy with hand holding, but Sven had made it clear he would not make an issue of it this time. With that reassurance Kyaw disappeared into the darkness abyss, and Sven, giving one last look around the haunted place, disappeared as well ...\n\n[center][color=#ff0000]*[b]16[/b]*[/color][/center]\n[b][color=#ff0000]118[/color][/b] Sven could hear the sounds of dripping water in the dark collecting into little puddles. Ahead was the inkiest black void Sven had ever saw. Not a speak of light could be seen down there. Sven couldn't help but look behind him to see the dim light of the entryway they'd come from, what had only moments ago seemed dreadfully dark in of itself, now was a bright grey glow. Sven could tell that they were slowly making their way down, down, down, and he worried that it would just continue like that indefinitely. Kyaw was sure to go slow to make sure neither of them stumbled in the dark. Sven was in fact very grateful to be holding Kyaw's hand at the moment. He held it firmly without any reservations now. Perhaps the absolute darkness made him feel comfortable knowing no one could see. If you could see him in the dark you'd see that he was in fact quiet frightened, but then again, wouldn't you be? No telling what could be down here, you literally could not see a thing. At least Kyaw was there to keep him company. He couldn't imagine what it would be like climbing down by himself.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]119[/color][/b] After what seemed like a very long time, but was probably only a few minutes, they reached the bottom, and it was then that Sven could see a gleam of light from above, like a ray of hope from the heavens. A steep climb was up ahead, but Sven was grateful to see the light at least.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]120[/color][/b] \"We're gonna climb up there?\" Sven asked becoming a bit worried. \"Yup!\" Kyaw said self assured. \"But it's so steep?\" Sven said quietly. \"I know. We just have to be careful. We could get hurt if we slip and fall\". \"No kidding.\" Sven said in awe as they both looked up and the challenge ahead.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]121[/color][/b] Well there was nothing to be done about it except to walk towards it now. Not much sense in going back the way they came.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]122[/color][/b] \"Careful. It might be slippery\" Kyaw warned. Kyaw then helped to hoist Sven up and Sven in turn helped lift Kyaw up.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]123[/color][/b] The next couple of minutes were a bit intense. Progress was slow and not unlike rock climbing. However they slowly found their footing and there were some ledges where they could rest. As they climbed the light only got brighter, especially reflecting off all of the bright white snow.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]124[/color][/b] At one point Sven grabbed onto Kyaw's foot and nearly pulled both of them down. Kyaw shrieked out briefly but then tried to stifle it as to not attract attention. He looked down at Sven who was blushing. \"Sorry. I s-slipped, hehe\" he said bashfully. \"That's alright, but maybe you should climb on ahead\" Kyaw suggested. Sven climbed up past Kyaw and Kyaw braced Sven's feet at some points to make sure Sven wouldn't lose his balance again. It was harder for Sven with his big floppy roo feet, but somehow the both of them managed to climb to the top.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]125[/color][/b] It got easier as they approached the summit, the bright morning light practically beaming down on them. At last the view opened up to a beautiful wintery vista. The Ski lift could be seen climbing up the mountain, and beautiful rolling hills of snow could be seen for miles around. Just behind them was the Rec Center. For now Kyaw and Sven could only be seen by their heads barely poking out of the snow like rabbits poking their head out of a rabbit warren.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]126[/color][/b] \"The Rec Center is behind us, but it will be hard to see us with that mound of snow above.\" Kyaw said as he pointed behind and above them. Sven observed that they were indeed relatively low in comparison. Then they returned their gaze ahead. \"See that lamppost up ahead? That marks the entry to the catacombs.\" Kyaw said. \"You mean there are dead furs down there?!\" Sven said concerned. \"What? No. What gave you that idea!\" Kyaw said. \"That's what catacombs are. There caves where dead furs are stored\" Sven explained. Kyaw blushed a little. \"Oh. No I just mean there are caves down there visitors can explore. I just thought catacombs sounded cooler, hehe.\" Kyaw explained.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]127[/color][/b] \"What if Sigmund sees us?\" Sven asked. \"Well, the coast looks clear for the moment. I say we just make a run for it. If we can make it down into the caves we will be able to stay under ground and hidden until we can get back to the Ski Lift. From there it should be easy to travel to the Inn\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]128[/color][/b] Sven gave a tentative look around. The lamppost was not but 30 yards away, and the path was covered in thick snow. Sven screwed up his courage. \"Alright. On the count of three then\", \"Mhm\" Kyaw nodded in agreement. \"One ... two ... three.\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]129[/color][/b] Both boys jumped and landed in the deep snow. So far so good. The two of them started to hop from place to place, not unlike a pair of snow rabbits trying to escape a predator. It seemed like it was incredibly far away. But they kept hopping forward yard by yard all the while feeling like Sigmund was staring a hole in their backsides. Once or twice the boys dared to glance back, expecting to see him looming above them standing on the snow mound with a sinister smirk, but he was not there. They'd apparently lost him by having gone through the secret route.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]130[/color][/b] At last they reached the lamppost and quickly scurried underground for cover. They popped their heads back up above the snow to survey the clearing. \"Where do you suppose Sigmund is?\" Sven asked. \"I have no idea. Maybe he's still looking for us in the Rec Center\" Kyaw offered. \"I sure hope so\" Sven said. Then he got a little chill down his shoulder. \"Wait, how do we know he's not in the caves already?\" he asked nervously. \"Hmmm ...\" thought Kyaw for a moment, then he snapped his fingers. \"Look, the only tracks in the snow are ours. Sigmund couldn't have come by this way\" Kyaw said. \"Huh. Good point.\" Sven said genuinely impressed with his clever little friend. \"Thank you\" Kyaw said with a proud little smile. \"Now come on, I gotz somethin' to show ya\" Kyaw said waving for his friend to join him down in the \"catacombs\" as he called them.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]131[/color][/b] As Kyaw and Sven carefully made their way down, it quickly got rather dark and dimly lit. They soon found themselves surrounded by different paths in seemingly all directions. Sven looked around inquisitively. \"Woooow\" he said, impressed by the sights. \"Follow me\" Kyaw signaled as he headed towards a small opening on the wall to their left.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]132[/color][/b] Kyaw emerged on the other side and looked back at his friend. He gestured his arms out wide and smiled, \"Look Sven, it's beautiful\". Sven followed dutifully not sure what he was about to see. As he walked out of the narrow passage way he suddenly got a rush of acrophobia. The little passageway opened up suddenly to a vast chasm going deep into the earth as well as towering over them by several feet. It was dizzyingly high, like staring down from the balcony of a sky scraper. There was a wooden guard rail but it hardly felt sturdy or adequate given the massive danger of falling! Sven instinctively backed up.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]133[/color][/b] \"Come on Sven. Isn't the view beautiful?\" Kyaw said holding onto the rails and signaling his friend to join him. Sven took a moment to take his surroundings in. They were indeed beautiful. There was a wonderful sound of rushing water as there was a little waterfall coming down on the other side of the chasm right in front of them. The place felt serene, almost sacred.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]134[/color][/b] \"Are you sure that's safe?\" inquired Sven nervously. \"Oh pffff ... this rail is made of sturdy wood, see?\" he said as he attempted to make it buckle to show his friend. \"CAREFUL!\" Sven shouted rushing over to grab Kyaw from the ledge. He grabbed Kyaw by the paws. The look of concern on his face was genuine.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]135[/color][/b] \"So you do care ...\" Kyaw gently breathed a sigh of relief as he gave Sven a winsome smile. \"I just - it's just - you scared me! I don't want to think of anything bad happening to you ... I-I'd be like that would anyone ... honest!\" Sven said both frazzled by the thought of delicate little Kyaw going over the edge, but also in having to rationalize his feelings. \"Oh Svyb, you can't fool me anymore ... hehe\" Kyaw giggled as he gripped gently onto Sven's paws and moved slowly moved closer and closer to the handsome roo boy. Sven found himself transfixed by Kyaw's beautiful baby blue eyes, and suddenly, everything didn't seem so bad and Sven felt at peace ... he smiled as Kyaw came within inches of his face ...\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]136[/color][/b] Little did the two boys know they were about to be found out! Sigmund had heard Sven's shout echoing from the chasm. He'd given up searching through the Rec Center a while ago, figuring they must be hiding somewhere around the town. Sigmund had just been crossing the Town Christmas Tree when he heard Sven shout \"CAREFUL!\". He quickly rushed off the shoveled path into the deep snow in the direction he heard the shout.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]137[/color][/b] Sigmund rushed to the edge and suddenly had to bring himself to a halt not to go over! It took Sigmund a moment to recover, but when he did the first thing his eyes caught sight of was Kyaw holding hands with Sven and getting very close to him. Close enough to kiss for some reason.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]138[/color][/b] \"HEY! GET YOUR GRUBBY PAWS OFF MY LIL BROTHER YOU SKEEZY LIL FAGBIT!\" Sigmund shouted from a top and across the chasm. Both the boys had forgotten all about Sigmund in their special moment and were shocked to see him standing over them.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]139[/color][/b] After the initial shock was over though Kyaw calmed down. Sigmund was all the way on the other side of the chasm. There was no way he could get over to them, or so Kyaw thought. \"Shit, let's get out of here!\" Sven said as he tried to pull Kyaw away from the ledge, but Kyaw wasn't having it. Kyaw leaned onto the fence and shouted back at his accuser. \"SVEN GRABBED MY PAWS YOU BIG NASTY OAF! HE LOVES ME AND WANTS ME AND HE'S GOING TO TAKE ME TO HIS RAINBOW FAIRY CASTLE AND WE ARE GONNA LIVE HAPPILY EVER AFTER AND THERE IS NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT! SO THERE!\" Kyaw shouted up at Sigmund. Sven was mortified. \"I NEVER SAID ANY OF THAT!\" he shouted up to Sigmund to save face. Sigmund scowled down at them ...\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]140[/color][/b] \"Shut up Sven!\" Sigmund shouted back at his dweeby little brother. \"CAN'T DO NOTHING ABOUT IT YOU SAY?!\" he said giving a smug and cocky smile to the little rabbit boy. \"WANNA BET?!\" he shouted. And with that he started making his way around the chasm at top speed with his long springy roo legs.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]141[/color][/b] \"Crap!\" Sven said as he tried to pull them away but Kyaw wasn't exactly rushing off with him. \"Come on!\" Sven begged. \"But Svy, he doesn't know the way\" Kyaw said.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]142[/color][/b] Sigmund made it to a spot directly above them and smiled a sinister smile. Kyaw and Sven instinctively shrunk before him, despite Kyaw still believing Sigmund had no way to reach them. \"Y-You don't scare us! You don't know the way! Y-You can't get down here! \" Kyaw tried to shout bravely up at Sigmund, but his voice was already beginning to waver with doubt. \"Oh I can't can't I?! Hehe ... GERONIMO!\" Sigmund shouted as he prepared to spring down into the soft snow patch Kyaw and Sven were standing on. He was really going to do it! \"Oh sugar ...\" Kyaw whispered as he realized they were in trouble again.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]143[/color][/b] Sven pulled Kyaw out of the way just as Sigmund leapt into the air. He jumped onto a tall snow patch on the opposite side to break his fall, and then slid down the other side bringing an avalanche of snow down with him practically covering the narrow passage. The boys had already run inside and Kyaw was weighing their options of which way to run off to.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]144[/color][/b] \"Which way?!\" Sven said. Kyaw's little rabbit brain puzzled for a minute, before he decided on the best course of action. \"This way!\" he said pulling Sven sharply to the left just as Sigmund burst out from the snow in the narrow passage lunging to try and grab them. All he got for his efforts though was to practically fall on his face. He stumbled to try to get up while huffing and puffing. He wasn't used to having to move this much and the jump had taken a lot out of him. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]145[/color][/b] Of course, Kyaw and Sven were getting tired too, despite being young and energetic, but fortunately for them Kyaw had a plan. Something he'd been thinking of since the yard, and now was his chance to set up his trap. Hopefully Sigmund would fall for it!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]146[/color][/b] \"Come on!\" Kyaw said as he scrambled up a rocky path out into the open air. Sven scrambled up after Kyaw, but couldn't help asking, \"Do you know where we are going?!\". \"I know where [i]I'm going[/i], just follow me\" Kyaw responded hastily as he hopped through the snow. \"I just wish [i]I knew[/i] where we were going!\" Sven responded snidely.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]147[/color][/b] \"Where you guys gonna run to, huh? You twerps can't lose me, I'm twice your age and twice your size!\" Sigmund taunted. Sven was beginning to feel Sigmund was right. How could they lose him? No matter what they did they seemed to be trapped unable to shake him!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]148[/color][/b] Kyaw circled around a large depression in the ground. \"Careful, make sure you go around, there was a cave in\". Sven quickly hopped around the edges to discover a large narrow hole into the earth. \"Quick we have to climb down here!\" Kyaw said as he began carefully making his way down. Sven looked down at the hole. One could jump down but it was too steep to climb back up. \"B-but but we'll get stuck down there!\" Sven protested. \"No we won't I have a plan, just come on.\" Kyaw said. Sven was still divided, but when he saw his brother galloping over the hill and atop the snow that pretty much settled it! Shit. Sven dived down into the hole. In fact, he was able to hop down with his roo legs much faster than Kyaw and got to the bottom first. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]149[/color][/b] \"Here, I catch you!\" Sven said as he offered up his paw. Kyaw jumped down and fell as he started a little mini avalanche of snow. Kyaw landed on Sven and fell on top of him as he fell over. Their bodies were closely pressed together and once again Sven found Kyaw's face dangerously close to his. They both were breathing heavy, and Sven was feeling awkward with the soft and pleasant rabbit pressing down on him. It was giving him a little tickle between his legs and he didn't know why but it made him a tad uncomfortable. He was blushing uncontrollably desperately trying to think of a way to get himself up without making the whole affair awkward. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]150[/color][/b] Kyaw broke the silence, putting his face in one paw and smiling, \"We've got to stop meeting like this! hehe\". Sven couldn't help but admit, Kyaw was kind of cute ... for a boy.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]151[/color][/b] Just then another avalanche of snow came down as Sigmund leapt across the gap, braced himself, and prepared to jump down after them. \"Yah-hashimite!\" Sven said as he realized Sigmund wasn't going to be dissuaded from pursuing them no matter the cost.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]152[/color][/b] \"You fools got another thing coming if you think I'm not gonna come down there and thwamp the both of you!\" Sigmund said as he prepared to clumsily leap down. The boys quickly scrambled to their feet and Kyaw took the lead again pulling Sven by the paw and disappearing off down some path.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]153[/color][/b] The caverns were full of different paths for visitors to explore. Knowing them even a tiny bit better was a huge advantage, and Kyaw knew it. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]154[/color][/b] Sigmund came down with a bit of a tumble, but the fall was mostly safe because of how much snow there already was and how much he brought with him. None the less he kind of stumbled and face planted because he was in such a hurry to get down and get his paws around those grubby brats necks. He scrambled to his feet as quickly as he could before they disappeared down some alley.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]155[/color][/b] There definitely was no getting back up the way they came with how steep the hole was, and how much slippery snow and ice lined it, but neither the first graders nor Sigmund had any concern right now except their chase.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]156[/color][/b] \"Come on! This way!\" Sigmund heard Kyaw say, telling him they'd gone around the corner and not down the other path.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]157[/color][/b] \"KYAW! This is a dead end! He's gonna be here any second\" Sven shouted. They had reached another look out with another wooden guard rail before them, looking down into the massive chasm with a beautiful waterfall streaming down one of it's sides, flowing down into the caverns below.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]158[/color][/b] Perhaps you've already realized Kyaw's plan. He wasted no time. He began climbing up and over the rails!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]159[/color][/b] \"Kyaw that's crazy! We can't!\" Sven protested, knowing exactly where this was going. Kyaw began to reach up above the fence onto a little narrow ledge. \"Just don't look down!\" Kyaw said as he began to shimmy across the ledge. This was crazy. Sven never expected Kyaw of all furs to be risking his life like this. Sven had to admit, this sissy little rabbit boy was braver than him. Even so, he couldn't bring himself to do it, that is, until he saw his older brother barreling down towards him.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]160[/color][/b] Sven wasted no time, climbing up like he'd seen Kyaw do, and getting on the ledge and starting to shimmy just enough to get out of reach as Sigmund swiped his paw over the fence.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]161[/color][/b] \"Shit! Shit! Shit!\" Sven said as he pressed up against the cliff shutting his eyes tight. Why'd he do this to himself? He wasn't brave, he wasn't tough, [i]not really[/i]. He just wanted furs to think he was, so they wouldn't make fun of him! Why did he let this little bunny boy get him into so much trouble!?!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]162[/color][/b] Sigmund didn't immediately give pursuit. This was one trick too far, and he breathed heavily just thinking about how far down it was. \"Get back here Svy ... get back here or I'm going to tell mom what you are doing!\" Sigmund threatened. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]163[/color][/b] Sven was frozen in place, he just couldn't keep going, partly out of fear and partly out of trauma. Snow began to fall from the sky drifting into the chasm and he felt it's cold bite across his cheeks. He felt like crying for some reason, though he did not know why, but all he could do was hold his breath and everything else within him. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]164[/color][/b] \"I knew it. You're nothing but a sniveling wimp. arn'tcha Sven? Why don't you come back this way and give me the keys. If that stupid rabbit wants to risk his neck let him. He's no concern of ours. But mom would have our asses for this and you know it!\" Sigmund tried to reason with Sven. Still, Sven couldn't bring himself to give in to his brother, nor to move forward. He felt like he was being pulled in two directions, and he just wanted it to stop.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]165[/color][/b] \"Sven, it's okay ... we can do this ... together\" came a gentle voice. Then Sven felt Kyaws gentle fingers interweave with his. His heart felt a tinge of warmth. Kyaw was so understanding of his feelings, without him even having to explain ... just like a girl. But it's exactly what he needed in that moment. Someone to lend him a hand without shaming him for being a weak and feeble boy secretly. \"Let's just take it slow, we can make it\" Kyaw reassured. All Sven could do was smile and nod his head yes. Kyaw had given him the courage to face his fears. He was here with Kyaw, and they were in this together. They began to shimmy further and further out away from Sigmund.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]166[/color][/b] Sigmund got nervous now. \"You you think that's gonna stop me!\" he tried to bluff. He got up above the fence and climbed up. He reached his paw out towards Sven as far as he could. He couldn't put all his weight on the ledge because you see, it was too short for a boy his age. Only Sven and Kyaw were young enough to be able to safely balance on it.\n \n[b][color=#ff0000]167[/color][/b] \"Come on Sven, grab my paw. If you die mom will never forgive me ...\" Sigmund said with the first sign of concern.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]168[/color][/b] Sven looked back at his brother. He didn't care about Sven. He just didn't want things to get any worse between him and his mom. He didn't want to give everyone yet another reason to despise him at home. Perhaps that was uncharitable of Sven, perhaps that wasn't actually true, but that's how he felt. His brother had been nothing but sulky and dismissive of him since the day he was born, seeing him as an enemy rather than an ally, a usurper of his birthright instead of a shareholder in it. Perhaps there was hurt there too, perhaps Sven would have liked an older brother to genuinely be there for him.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]169[/color][/b] Sven managed to make out a defiant \"S-s-sucks to be you I guess ...\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]170[/color][/b] \"You damn brat! See if I care if you fall! I'll just tell mom it was all your fault!\" Sigmund spat.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]171[/color][/b] Then Sigmund had a thought, \"no I got a better idea. I'll tell 'em it was Kevin's fault. Kevin is the one that got you killed!\" Sigmund said spitefully. \"Leave him out of this!\" Sven defended. \"Hey! You two! No one's fallen yet!\" Kyaw snarked.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]172[/color][/b] That pissed Sigmund off. \"That's it I'm going after you, you little shit!\" Sigmund said referring to Kyaw. He put his foot out and began moving towards the ledge despite it being way to small to support his weight.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]173[/color][/b] \"D-Don't! You might fall!\" begged Sven. \"Shut up! You just don't want me to catch you! What do you care if I fall!? Fuck face! I hate you!\" spat out Sigmund venomously.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]174[/color][/b] \"You are still my brother Sig, and I don't want you to fall. I'd feel terrible ... J-Just ... j-just leave me and Kya- ... I mean Kev- ... ugh ... JUST LEAVE US ALONE! PLEASE! He's my friend, alright! JUST my friend! And there is nothing wrong with that! I can chose my own friends! Okay?\" Sven begged.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]175[/color][/b] \"Come on Sven, climb up with me\" Kyaw begged. He felt like he was being ignored by both of them. Clearly there was something these brothers were trying to work out ... obliquely.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]176[/color][/b] The brothers stared intensely at each other, neither willing to budge, both of them scowling as they faced their \"adversary\".\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]177[/color][/b] \"Sven. Sven! Sven? Why won't you move?\" Kyaw began to say with a tone of panic in his voice. \"I can't.\" Sven said resolutely. \"But why?!\" Kyaw said as he frantically tried to pull on Sven's coat and lift him up. \"Because ... if I climb up Sigmund might follow me ...\". Kyaw could see that Sven would not budge. Despite how much he despised Sigmund, and likewise Sigmund despised Sven, Sven wasn't willing to be responsible for him falling to his death, and neither was Sigmund for Sven. Clearly, brothers we're still brothers, even when they hated each other. Some code of honor or respect kept them from completely disregarding each other's well being, half-brothers that they were. It was bizarre and fascinating to Kyaw, but his more pressing concern was that Sven was dangling above a two hundred foot precipice, and he desperately wanted Sven to climb up to safety with him ...\n \n[b][color=#ff0000]178[/color][/b] ... but it was no use. Now what? Kyaw hadn't anticipated this outcome: A stalemate ... a literal cliffhanger ...\n\n[center][color=#00bf00]*[b]17[/b]*[/color][/center]\n[b][color=#00bf00]179[/color][/b] It was Sigmund that offered a truce, understanding that things had gone too far. He couldn't be responsible for risking the lives of two six year old's. He could get sent to Juvie and it would be a blight on him for the rest of his life. \"Sven, just toss me back the keys. Toss me back the keys and I'll let you two go free. I won't beat the snot outta you two! Alright?\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]180[/color][/b] \"No! I don't trust you Sigmund! I know you too well! You're still gonna go after him.\" Sven spat back defiantly. It was then that Kyaw realized he still had a card to play. One that might break up this brotherly stalemate.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]181[/color][/b] \"Hey, you want the keys? Well here they are!\" Kyaw said as he scrambled up the side of the cliff and dangled them before Sigmund's eyes. \"You gave him the keys?!\" Sigmund scolded Sven. Sven just shrugged. \"Those don't belong to you! Give them to me now fagbit or I'll-\" Sigmund threatened. \"NO! You have to catch me first!\" said Kyaw as he raced up towards the railing where not long ago Sven and Kyaw had been looking out on the beautiful view.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]182[/color][/b] Sigmund looked up in disbelief at the audacity and tenacity of the little twerp. Then he looked back at Sven. He didn't say anything, but Sven knew what he was thinking. He was about to leave the other way. Leave his brother \"for dead\" metaphorically. Should he risk abandoning Sven to pursue Kyaw? Sven stared back at his brother. Something in his look told Sigmund, \"I'll be okay\". And with that Sigmund took off.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]183[/color][/b] When Sigmund disappeared out of sight that was Sven's chance to start scaling up the cliff himself. Kyaw was right, it got easier after that initial segment. Kyaw climbed down a bit to help him up.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]184[/color][/b] Kyaw had intended Sigmund to go down into the labyrinthine caverns and get hopelessly lost. There was a path off to the right of the cave in, but Sigmund was too smart for that. He wasn't going to fall for Kyaw's trick and wander about aimlessly for hours trying to find his way back out on an unfamiliar path. No, Sigmund was going to do what Kyaw had clearly reckoned would be impossible ... he was climbing back up the cave in!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]185[/color][/b] Kyaw had underestimated both Sigmund's resolve and capacity. He used his much larger and springier roo legs to hop up to a ledge and grabbed with all his strength. The icy cold stone bit at his paws but he was not going to be deterred. He hated that smug little rabbit that couldn't keep his mouth shut and didn't seem to know his place, and he was determined to teach him a lesson he wouldn't soon forget. One that would hopefully get him to swear off his brother for good. Somewhere in that black ugly heart of Sigmund's, he really did believe he was protecting his little brother Sven. Sure he despised him, but he was still his brother. Just like he wouldn't let him go off a cliff, he wouldn't let some faggy rabbit try to turn him and send him down a path of sin. Sigmund was older and knew better, and it was his duty to look out for Sven whether he wanted him to or not. One day he'd understand. But for now Sigmund was mostly filled with rage. He didn't like a little fairy boy half his age getting the better of him.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]186[/color][/b] Meanwhile the boys tried to quickly yet carefully make their way up. Being small and light certainly had it's advantages. They were less likely to dislodge anything and lose their balance and they needed less space to climb up the ledges. This had been the advantage that ensured Sigmund would not be foolish enough to follow and risk his own life, and yet, it still was pretty dangerous. Both boys wanted to get to the top as quickly as possible and not think about it too much.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]187[/color][/b] What seemed to take forever was likely no more than a minute and soon they were gripping the lowest bar of the fence together. Sven instinctively gave Kyaw some leverage to help him up. Kyaw made it up first. He then lent his paw to help Sven up. For a brief moment Sven was dangling off the side and Kyaw was very afraid that Sigmund would come up behind him and frighten him and he'd drop Sven. Thankfully that didn't happen and Sven managed to grip the top of the fence lifting himself up the rest of the way.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]188[/color][/b] Little did they know that Sigmund was just inches away from clawing himself out, hands bitterly scratched and frozen, but none the less, he'd managed to do it with all of his twelve year old strength. It was exhausting, but all it mostly succeeded in was making him even more enraged. When he got out he leapt over the precipice like a wolverine, barreling towards the boys outpost with his roo legs doing their work.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]189[/color][/b] The boys had just walked out of the narrow passage when they saw an avalanche of snow coming down to their left, and they knew Sigmund was barreling towards them. Without a seconds thought they took off to the right, down an incline that provided some cover.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]190[/color][/b] Sigmund hadn't managed to see them, but he wasted no time making it towards the narrow passageway. The boys hid themselves around the corner but saw him run in only to discover they'd already escaped. At least that is what Sigmund hoped ... he took a moment to look down the chasm hoping the worst had not happened, but he saw no evidence of anyone having fallen down there.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]191[/color][/b] \"Come on, let's go\" whispered Kyaw as he whipped Sven around the corner. They ran down some steps that had been provided, hopefully not loud enough for Sigmund to hear. When they got down to the bottom Kyaw looked around frantically trying to remember where it was. \"Uh ... this way ... I think\" he said pulling Sven by the paw again. They arrived at a crossroads and Kyaw tried to remember which way they were suppose to go down. Then he remembered it was neither. \"Oh that's right, we go up this way\" he said leading Sven up a set of steps.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]192[/color][/b] There were lamps lighting the way and all the paths mostly lead into each other, so there wasn't much danger of becoming permanently lost, however, Kyaw knew they'd have to go down the right way to not accidently run back into Sigmund.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]193[/color][/b] Kyaw stopped just as they were about to turn another corner and peaked around. \"Sugar!\" he said as he pulled back frightened. \"What is it?\" Sven asked. \"Sigmund is just standing there looking around for us\" Kyaw said. \"Pffff ... figures. He's never gonna let up. Like I told you. We aren't gonna be able to lose him. This was a stupid idea Kyaw\" Sven began to grumble. \"Shhhh\" Kyaw shushed him again. \"He might hear you\".\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]194[/color][/b] Kyaw dared to peak around the corner once more. Sigmund wasn't there. He must have gone down one of the other paths to find them. \"Quickly!\" he said as he grabbed Sven's paw again and they raced down another corridor. Kyaw finally felt a little safe once they rounded the corner and were out of the line of sight. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]195[/color][/b] After climbing some more steps they found themselves in a little patch of grass that had been shielded from the snow above. Sven noticed some wild mushrooms growing on the ground but they didn't really have time to stop and appreciate them, though he did wonder whether or not they were the kinds that were safe to eat or not.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]196[/color][/b] Kyaw scouted a little further on and Sven stood by the mushrooms lost in thought. Perhaps he was wondering what he was doing paling around with this rabbit, but also feeling perhaps a bit guilty for having had that thought.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]197[/color][/b] Kyaw signaled Sven to come over. \"Here it is, the other chasm!\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]198[/color][/b] Sven walked over to see they were on another precarious ledge, though not quite as bad as the last one. Kyaw seemed to know his way around though, and told him to just follow along the ledge.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]199[/color][/b] Despite Sven's fears he walked along the ledge which was definitely much wider than the ones they'd just traversed. Thankfully, a little further on, the drop was not nearly as far below which made Sven feel better. Passing another waterfall, they managed to climb down. By this point they'd well and truly lost Sigmund who was baffled as to which way they could have gone.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]200[/color][/b] The boys continued to climb further and further down, as the cave got darker and darker, despite the light and snow coming from above in a large opening. Sven was getting increasingly nervous. This was beginning to feel more and more like a place they weren't suppose to be. It was however strikingly beautiful, like an ancient cathedral, with the stone cliffs towering hundreds of feet above them and the sky shining through like the light of God. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]201[/color][/b] After a few minutes they finally reached the base of the cave. Down here there were beautiful stalagmites and stalagtites to be seen, and Sven started to look around in wonder. \"Woooow\" he said genuinely impressed with it's scale and beauty. His voice echoed hauntingly throughout the caverns, letting the boys sense just what a vast and hollowed out space lay before them, full of secret passages and large throne rooms to Gods that had passed away long ago.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]202[/color][/b] The boys were no longer running. They felt safe down here, well and far away from the other vacationers. It was quiet down here except for the occasional sounds of bats and dripping water. Perhaps it would have felt lonely down there in the dark and cold caverns, but since both boys were going on this adventure together it didn't feel that way. It felt more wonderous, a mysterious place they were exploring and experiencing together, and Sven found himself smiling, though he was only dimly aware why. Kyaw felt it too ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]203[/color][/b] It was then that Sven felt the soft little rabbit paw wrap around his. It is a wonder that it surprised him, as he should have expected it at this point. Perhaps if he were more honest with himself he could have admitted that it was something he had wanted to do himself in the moment ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]204[/color][/b] \"It's okay Kyaw, there is no need to be frightened...\" Sven said as he held Kyaw's paw tighter. \"I'm not frightened.\" responded Kyaw flatly. \"Oh ...\" replied Sven. He would have happily held the rabbit's hand if it were as a protector of sorts, but Kyaw found the response patronizing. \"I'm not a little kid Sven, we're the same age.\" Kyaw added. \"... okay well ... why are you holding my paw then?\" Sven began tentatively. Kyaw just raised an eyebrow as if to say, 'really'? \"What?!\" Sven added defensively. \"Sigh. You really don't know?\" Kyaw said, still gripping Sven's paw firmly. Sven shook his head no. \"Because I wanted to.\" Kyaw finally said. \"... oh ...\" Sven let go of his paw. \"Boys don't hold paws like that Kyaw.\". The boys had stopped in their tracks.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]205[/color][/b] \"and why not?\" Kyaw said folding his arms beginning to tap his foot impatiently.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]206[/color][/b] \"because ...\" he began and realized he didn't immediately have an answer. Kyaw raised that skeptical eyebrow again. God Sven hated the way girls could just judge you with a glance. It was so goddamn annoying and it was starting to piss him off a bit. \"Give me a moment ... cause ... cause we aren't a bunch of scared lil babies that's why!\" Sven finally said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]207[/color][/b] Kyaw just rolled his eyes, \"what has that got to do with it. I already said it's got nothing to do with being afraid. Maybe I just wanted to hold you paw to hold your paw. You know ... because I [i]like you[/i].\" Kyaw said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]208[/color][/b] \"Yeah. I like you too Kyaw, but we're still boys, ya know? That's not how boys show they like each other, alright? If you wanna be a boy then take my advice, there is certain things boys don't do.\" Sven said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]209[/color][/b] \"Well I'm a boy and I wanted to hold your paw, that's all. I thought we were having a moment. We're all alone here Sven, it's just the two of us. Can't we just be ourselves for once? At least here and now?\" Kyaw said as he walked towards Sven. Sven instinctively backed up, though he was careful to make sure he didn't walk off a cliff down here.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]210[/color][/b] \"Kyaw I - I don't know what you are talking about. I [i]am[/i] being myself.\" Sven said. Kyaw gave that skeptical eye again. \"Can you STOP THAT! It's starting to get annoying. You said you wanted to be a boy didn't you? I'm just trying to help you Kyaw, like you wanted!\" Sven said defensively.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]211[/color][/b] \"For the last time Sven, I [i]am[/i] a boy!\" Kyaw replied a bit miffed.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]212[/color][/b] \"You know what I mean!\" Sven shot back. \"Do I? Do you even? What even is 'being a boy'? Tell me that!\" Kyaw responded.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]213[/color][/b] \"... I don't know ... it's - it's hard to put in words ...\" Sven offered. \"Try\" Kyaw insisted. \"Sigh. I don't know, it's like, it's just a certain energy. Like girls have this whole energy to them that's just different. Softer, more pleasant ... so sweet and kind and wonderful ... sigh\" Sven started to trail off. \"Ugh. Sven I didn't ask you what girls are like, I asked you what boys are like!\" Kyaw responded impatiently. He didn't like the way Sven was getting all swoony talking about girls, it irritated him for some reason, but he was only dimly aware of why.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]214[/color][/b] \"That's just it! Boys are not like girls. They're just [i]not girls[/i]. See? They are like the opposite!\" Sven said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]215[/color][/b] \"Oh got it. So boys are rougher, unpleasant, gross and cruel and awful! That it?\" Kyaw pouted.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]216[/color][/b] \"Hey! Why are [i]you[/i] getting offended?! You aren't any of those things. You're not even really a -\" Sven said without thinking. Kyaw was sweet and kind and wonderful ... just like a ... just like a g-\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]217[/color][/b] \"But I am a BOY! As I keep having to tell you!\" Kyaw blurted out. Sven for some reason hated to be reminded of this fact.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]218[/color][/b] \"Well ... you sure don't act like it! Why do you wanna be a boy anyway? What's so fucking great about being a boy?! You think I like it? You think it's so fucking great for me?! Having to constantly show up or shut up all the time?\" Sven responded angerly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]219[/color][/b] \"Well being a boy [i]could be[/i] great if you'd stop shutting everything down all the time! And you think it's so great 'being a girl'? How do you think I feel? No one ever takes me seriously, everyone thinks I'm a dumb bunny and my brain is just made of fluff, everyone laughs at me, and I'm constantly not allowed to say or show how I feel and keep out of the way.\" Kyaw said as he stomped his footpaw.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]220[/color][/b] \"I think that's more of a you problem.\" Sven said flatly. That did it. Kyaw had reached his limit. He started to storm off.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]221[/color][/b] \"Wait Kyaw, don't go. Come on. Please don't be cross with me. I - I just want you to like me okay?\" Sven pleaded.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]222[/color][/b] That got Kyaw to stop in his tracks. \"You want me to - like you? Well how in da heck do you think I feel?\" he turned around with tears in his eyes.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]223[/color][/b] \"Kyaw, I don't know what you mean. And yeah, I want you to like me. Is that so strange?\" Sven said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]224[/color][/b] Kyaw tried to rub the tears out of his eyes. \"Why does it matter whether I like you or not? I'm just some nobody. You are the one everyone likes and admires and looks up to in class.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]225[/color][/b] \"Furs like me because I'm good at something. I just try to be friendly to everyone I meet and cause everyone knows who I am and what I'm good at I get along with everyone. That's all.\" Sven admitted.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]226[/color][/b] \"But that's just it, you have so many friends Sven. All the boys love you! So why do you care whether or not I like you?\" Kyaw continued to pry.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]227[/color][/b] \"I - I just don't like to see you upset Kyaw, that's all\". \"Oh is that all\" Kyaw said petulantly. \"Yes. What more do you want from me? It makes me sad to see you cry. What's wrong with that? And what? Are you jealous of me or something? I'd trade what I have to have what you have. All the girls seem to like you!\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]228[/color][/b] \"They like me because I'm unthreatening. I don't want or expect anything from them. Because they know I'm different and I'm friendly they like me. That's all.\" Kyaw said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]229[/color][/b] Both the boys paused. A little smile crept up Sven's face. \"You know ...\" he began, \"it's funny ... but I think we are jealous of each other ... heh heh. Isn't that ridiculous? Maybe that's what makes us alike ... that we are ... uh different, but we have the same problem, ya' know?\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]230[/color][/b] \"No Sven that's not it.\" Kyaw said wiping the last of his tears away. \"I'm not jealous of you. I love you. I don't want to be you. I just want to be with you...\" Kyaw said facing Sven directly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]231[/color][/b] \"... but I'm right here Kyaw.\" Sven said plainly. \"Are you? Then be with me Sven.\" Kyaw said as he stepped down and put his paw out to grab.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]232[/color][/b] Sven was about to say he didn't know what Kyaw meant, but at the same time he got it. He understood it implicitly. Sven wasn't really 'there'. He was always somewhere else. Always worried about what was going to happen next, what furs would say, what his actions were and whether they were right or not. He couldn't simply be, let alone \"be\" with anyone. Well ... they were all alone in that cave after all ... maybe it'd be okay ... to stop being 'boys' for a moment.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]233[/color][/b] Sven grabbed Kyaw's paw, and they continued to explore the cave together, taking in it's vastness, and enjoying the moment in each other's company, whatever 'this' was. At least Sven knew Kyaw wouldn't judge him. He felt safe for the moment.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]234[/color][/b] The boys soon came to an almost mystical sight ... they saw the bottom of the waterfall. They looked up and saw that they were now at the bottom of the chasm. \"Woooow. This place is so huge!\" Sven said outloud.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]235[/color][/b] \"Can you feel it Sven?\" Kyaw said looking around with a wild look in his eyes, like a little bit of his rabbit essence was fully awake. \"Feel what?\" Sven asked in a shushed tone. \"This place is sacred ... it's hollered ground.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]236[/color][/b] \"Uh ... I think you mean hallowed\" Sven corrected. \"Pfft ... same diff\" Kyaw dismissed. \"Anyway, how can this place be sacred? Doesn't look like it's been touched by furs.\" Sven observed. \"Uh huh. It's pure.\" Kyaw said. \"No, that's not what I mean. I mean there's no temple here. There's no cross, no pulpit, no preacher, no pews-\" Sven tried to clarify. \"Exactly Sven. It's not sullied.\" Kyaw said. \"Huh?\" Sven said raising a quizzical eyebrow. \"This is where real gods reside Sven. In the places away from us furs. In secluded places, quiet places, this is where the divine shines brightest. This is a natural Cathy-droll.\" Kyaw said. \"I think you mean Cathedral.\" Sven corrected again. Kyaw just waved Sven's correct away irritably. Sven smiled to himself, not out of derision, but a kind of knowing sense of endearment. Kyaw was such a fussy little boy sometimes, but all he could do was smile to himself about it.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]237[/color][/b] \"Hold on Sven, I have to do something\" Kyaw said as he let go of Sven's paw. Kyaw closed his eyes and bowed his head and folded his palms together. Prayer? Well that's what it looked like anyway. Then Kyaw plucked out one of his whiskers. He placed it in the water and let it float down, then he walked back to Sven who was kind of dumbfounded. \"Uh ... what did you do that for?\" Sven said quizzically. \"It's a sign of respect. Maybe a little way to say we were here. I don't know. It just came to me.\" Kyaw shrugged. \"Well okay I guess.\" Sven said confused.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]238[/color][/b] \"Maybe you should pull a whisker too?\" Kyaw teased as he got up close and smiled at Sven. \"Oh ... hehe ... no no ... I'm not allowed to sacrifice to random cave gods ... sorry\" Sven tried to nervously abstain.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]239[/color][/b] \"Aw ... but it shows that we were here together. It can be a witness to the gods\" Kyaw encouraged. \"hehe ... I'm sure he knows ... -_-;\" Sven said waving to signal his refusal. He felt like Yah-Hasha was staring him down right now.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]240[/color][/b] \"Well ... alright ...\" Kyaw said a bit disappointed. It felt like Sven wasn't willing to fully commit and break bread with him, but it was okay. He'd stood up for him on the cliff. Maybe he wasn't ready to commit, but Kyaw was beginning to see the evidence that Sven cared. The way he was worried about him going over the rails. The way he defended his friendship to Sigmund's face. The way it bothered him when Kyaw was even the tiniest bit upset with him. He had feelings for him. Kyaw was sure of it. He just wasn't ready to fully admit it. That must be it, he thought to comforted himself.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]241[/color][/b] \"Well ... at least sit with me a bit.\" Kyaw said as he sat down in view of the waterfall. \"Al-alright ... I'm kind of tired anyway, we could use a rest.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]242[/color][/b] Kyaw folded his legs, and took a deep breath as he spread his arms out. \"What are you doing?\" Sven asked. \"I'm getting attuned with this place. The gods are everywhere you know, if you take the time to know them.\" Kyaw said while meditating. \"I know [i]Yah-Hasha[/i] is everywhere\" Sven said leaning back on his paws and taking the view in. \"Same thing\" Kyaw said serenely. \"No it's not. That makes no sense. They're totally opposite things!\" Sven said irritably\". \"Sigh ... you think too much ...\" Kyaw said losing a tiny bit of concentration ... and patience. \"What is that suppose to mean?!\" Sven fired back. \"... just feel ... stop thinking so damned much. Just close your eyes and feel what's already here and stop trying to label it.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]243[/color][/b] Well ... it was hard to argue with that. If Yah-Hasha really was everywhere then that's what he would sense, right? And what was the harm in that? It was worth a shot, thought Sven, and maybe just maybe, he was getting a little tired of being afraid of every new experience that crossed his path ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]244[/color][/b] Sven folded his legs like Kyaw had done, and closed his eyes and tried to \"feel\" whatever it was he was suppose to feel. At first he felt a little silly. He wasn't sure what he was suppose to feel, or do, but gradually as the seconds and then minutes wore on he started to have a little tickle behind his neck. Something just beyond his grasp and his senses, but there all the same. He started to notice the sounds around him. They were ... louder somehow. He began to feel the vast space around him ... not just large but old ... \"quiet\" as Kyaw put it ... something more than anthro or animal. A majestic stillness unphased by the quibblings of the heart, and yet one's heart could feel intimately connected to it. Was this Yah-Hasha? Was this the cave? Was this the ancient gods Kyaw spoke of? Or was it all in Sven's head? Or maybe it was none of these things and all these things at once! Sven drifted away into a sea of confusion, at first disturbing, but then also slowly, comforting, being at peace with the mystery, enjoying being alive and not knowing but wondering all the same.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]245[/color][/b] \"how do you feel Sven?\" asked Kyaw peacefully. \"I feel ... nice ... really nice\" Sven said smiling. \"mm hm\" Kyaw responded knowingly. \"So you really don't believe in Yah-Hasha?\" Sven couldn't help interjecting. \"Shhhh! Enough about beliefs. Just let the experience in.\" Kyaw instructed. Sven decided to just go with it. What was the harm? He really did feel nice, and maybe, that ... was enough ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]246[/color][/b] Feeling refreshed, like he'd just taken a nap while wide awake, Sven opened his eyes and saw a sight that almost felt mystical. Twinkles of light coming down, as snow entered the cavern, dancing in beautiful swirling patterns. Sven felt like he could \"understand\" them, their intricate dance, the subtle air flows that guided them like an invisible hand. He felt like he was watching it unfold in slow motion. He felt like his body was melting away and yet he was still there to observe what happened. What were these strange and wonderous feelings, why did everything seem so vivid in this moment? More real than real!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]247[/color][/b] Prayer had never felt like this before. Sven had always felt like he was crying out desperately, pathetically, to get Yah-Hasha's very limited attention. All he felt was guilty for not living up to everyone's expectations of him, including Yah-Hasha. It was cathartic, but never joyous for some reason. This wasn't anything like that. He felt ... forgiven? No. Innocent? That was closer to it, but it was more than that. Pure. Unhampered. Unburdened with the need to be anything in particular. Ready to receive whatever the universe wanted to bring his way. At peace. Was this the love of God his parents had always told him about? It must be! Mustn't it? Why did Yah-Hasha see fit to grace him with it only now, when it felt like he was letting go of everything he thought he knew?\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]248[/color][/b] What was it that Kyaw was trying to show him? Sven really wanted to know! 'Something you can't put into words' he said to himself. What did that mean? If you couldn't put it into words how could you ... make any sense of it? To feel ... yes ... but ... where do feelings come from? They come unbidden. Are they only things to be pushed down? Vices? Vicissitudes of the soul, temptations, wayward thoughts, to be pressed down? Or were they a window to something more? Something inside oneself ... unsullied ... untouched by furs ... sacred ... to go within connected one to everything without ... wait. How does that make any sense? what did that even mean? Where did that come from?\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]249[/color][/b] Thoughts began to swirl rapidly around in Sven's head, far too quickly to make sense of, like trying to hold the patterns of snowflakes in one's hand ... for a brief moment they lingered ... and then melted away in confusion ... they could not be held for long ... but they could be felt ... in this moment ... this brief moment in the truth and the light where it all felt clear while none of it made any bit of sense ... and in this blissful confusion of delight ... he turned to Kyaw ... and he saw him in a new light ... an angel, a beautiful living breathing thing ... delicate, vulernable, sweet, innocent, dear, lovely, beautiful ... \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]250[/color][/b] ... as the light shinned so prettily on him ... he heard himself say ... though it felt like words from someone else ... \"I'm really glad ... I met you ...\" and then he put his paw on Kyaw's and found himself leaning in ... in slow motion ... like in a dream ... \"I am too\" he heard Kyaw say. And then he felt himself drifting into Kyaw and wrapping his arms around him ... \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]251[/color][/b] No wait ... not drifting, he was ... floating. He was a floating in the middle of the air. The waterfall had seemingly stopped moving. Where was Kyaw. He was above him, putting his paw out. \"Come on\" Kyaw said. Sven drifted himself upwards and the two held paws. They floated up as they slowly spun about. \"This is amazing\" Sven said. Their eyes met. They drew closer ... and closer ... their muzzles getting ever closer ... oh my sweet Kyaw he thought ... Sven closed his eyes and drew himself in ... and then ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]252[/color][/b] \"Sven, are you alright?\" Kyaw suddenly said shaking his friend awake. \"Huh?\" Sven said looking around confused. He'd drifted off to sleep? He was still sitting there with his legs folded. \"I think you went in deep. You might have been having an out of body experience. You weren't responding at first\". \"Oh ... really ... huh ... uh ... that was strange\" Sven said sounding a bit concerned.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]253[/color][/b] \"It happens\" said Kyaw knowingly as he leaned back and smiled. \"Don't worry about it. You were probably just tired and overwhelmed. It was your first time after all, wasn't it?\" \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]254[/color][/b] \"First time? First time what?\" Sven said a little concerned. \"Communing with the spirits of nature. I was afraid the first time. But momma and aunt Agie assured me it was perfectly normal. They called it a peak experience. It happens from time to time when many important things happen all at once. It just means your headed down the right path.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]255[/color][/b] \"Uh ... maybe. I don't know. Sometimes I really wonder ...\" Sven said unsure of himself once again. He was back to his old self it seemed. The glow was gone and things seemed mundane again. What was that? Had Kyaw bewitched him or something? Sven didn't want to think about it too much.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]256[/color][/b] \"That ... or we are just weak from not eating and running around hehe\" Kyaw said giving Sven a little nudge. \"That must be it.\" Sven tried to rationalize. \"Well that's okay. I can share some cookies I have on me.\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]257[/color][/b] \"You have cookies?\" Sven perked up. Turns out he was a little hungry. \"Yeah, I've got some Oreos. Here have one.\" Kyaw said handing him one. \"Thanks\" Sven said, and nibbled the cookie gingerly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]258[/color][/b] Sven smiled again as if he'd remembered something. \"You know ... in case I didn't say it ... I'm really glad I met you Kyaw\" Sven said facing the waterfall.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]259[/color][/b] \"I know, you said that before\" Kyaw responded. \"Huh?!\" Sven sat up confused. \"I did?!\". \"Uh huh ... while you were in that deep trance ...\" Kyaw said nonchalantly. Sven began to blush unbearably. Was that image of Kyaw in the light ... a figment of his imagination? And if so ... what did that say about him ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]260[/color][/b] Sven quietly ate his cookies and tried not to look at Kyaw. He must have daydreamed him. That was too embarrassing. He'd never had any thought like that before ... except for girls. He had daydreams about girls, and dreams. Those embarrassed him too and he never would dare tell anyone about them ... but at least those were understandable ... \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]261[/color][/b] Sadly all the self doubt was flooding back to Sven and well ... let's just say he wasn't 'there' anymore. More lost in his worried thoughts.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]262[/color][/b] \"Welp come on. Time to move on. It's not polite to dwell too long in their domain\" Kyaw said as he got up and dusted himself off.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]263[/color][/b] \"Where are we going now?\" Sven said getting up and dusting himself off as well.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]264[/color][/b] \"There is a path I know. It'll take us to an opening on the opposite end of the town. Then we can escape back to the Inn.\" Kyaw explained.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]265[/color][/b] \"Alright. Lead the way lil mate.\" Sven said patting his friend on the shoulders. At least Sven knew one thing. Kyaw was his friend now. That he was at peace with. And whatever weird feelings he did have, well, he would just keep them to himself. That, he could live with.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]266[/color][/b] The boys set off away from the chasm deeper into the caverns. Little did they know however that Sigmund had been listening in. He'd heard them echoing from below, hiding up in his perch, a fenced area directly opposite of them. He'd seen Kyaw move out into the light to toss his whisker in, and heard some of their conversation. It sickened him, but he stuck around to find out what they'd do. But most importantly he'd heard where they were headed ... and he had a pretty good idea where that was ...\n\n[center][color=#ff0000]*[b]18[/b]*[/color][/center]\n[b][color=#ff0000]267[/color][/b] The boys continued deeper into the cavernous region, away from the column of light and snow falling down through the chasm.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]268[/color][/b] Kyaw's nose twitcha-twitched as he would pause to look around and gain his bearings. \"Uh ... this way ... wait no ... umm ... that way!\". Everything looked kind of the same down there and Kyaw's eyes also had to adjust a bit to see better in the dark, despite the lamps that were sporadically placed about to offer visitors some light to navigate.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]269[/color][/b] They walked up to a ledge when Kyaw made out a familiar natural bridge made of rock. \"There!\" he pointed. \"We need to cross that bridge\" he said. Kyaw then tried to figure out how to go around and find the bridge.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]270[/color][/b] The ground was very uneven and there were many stalagmites to walk around, and it was dark, so the boys had to walk slowly and carefully not to stumble and injure themselves.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]271[/color][/b] \"Wait. So how do you know this place so well?\" Sven inquired as they made their way around to the bridge. \"I told you, me and Skipsy had three days to thoroughly explore everything. She likes doing this sorta thing. I've learned a lot about being a boy from her...\" Kyaw said. \"But she's a girl.\" Sven said flatly. \"I know. But she just gets along better with boys, kinda like I get along better with girls. We help each other out in that way.\" Kyaw said.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]272[/color][/b] \"Oh there it is. Quick let's cross it.\" Kyaw said pointing ahead to the bridge.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]273[/color][/b] Sven was a little apprehensive, but the bridge was made of solid rock several feet thick so there was no danger of it collapsing. The boys carefully kept their balance by spreading their arms out. It was not a long bridge and they found themselves on the other side in short order. Sven looked over the edge once and got a little freaked out, but the bridge was also wide, so it was impossible to fall off unless one was not paying any attention. None the less, he was relieved when they got to the other side. Kyaw went back to hunting around for the next landmark.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]274[/color][/b] \"So ... how come you guys were here so early? The Winter Solstice is tonight, and most furs are still just arriving.\" Sven prodded cautiously. Kyaw was only half paying attention as he climbed down and surveyed about. \"Uh ... well ... Augie and Tabie wanted to get here early to set up the decorations ... I think it's this way ...\" Kyaw said absently.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]275[/color][/b] \"That's what I thought. I think I saw some of them in the lunch hall.\" Sven said. \"Uh huh.\" Kyaw responded nonchalantly. He was thinking of other things and only half paying attention. It hadn't occurred to him where the conversation was headed yet. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]276[/color][/b] \"But why all the weird Norse stuff. What has that got to do with Christmas? Isn't that gonna make furs ... I don't know ... mad?\" Sven continued to push.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]277[/color][/b] \"Uh ... I guess ... but the flyer said it was open to all traditions did it not?\" Kyaw began. \"Well ... yeah.\" Sven said. \"So there you go. And The Norse Gods have a lot to do with Christmas actually.\" Kyaw said matter of factly. \"Come on, we've got to climb up this way\" he added.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]278[/color][/b] When thye got to the top Sven couldn't help replying \"But it's christmas ... you know Christ mass ... it's in the name. It's about Christ and christianity, not ... uh ... norse-ology. Did they like copy christmas from the christians or something?\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]279[/color][/b] \"No silly. The christians were the one's that copied them! Who do you think Santa Claus is anyway?\" Kyaw inquired. \"Uh ... he was a Saint I think. That's what my mom told me.\" Sven offered. \"Nope!\" Kyaw replied with a satisfied tone, \"Odin, The King of the Norss-gods, was the one who gave out the presents, riding his sleigh pulled by his eight-legged harse, Sleipnir. It's the spirit of Odin that visits us on the night of Christmas Eve. And that's not all! Most of the stuff we have like mistletoe, and holy, and wreaths, and christmas trees are of pagan and germanic origin. They were stolen and repackaged as a marketing gimmick. And it wasn't always called Christmas you know. That's just what they rebranded it as...\" Kyaw said. Kyaw peaked around the corner and recognized something. \"There ... that pillar with the lamps on it. I remember that ...\" he said walking towards it.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]280[/color][/b] \"Oh really? Well ... if it wasn't always Christmas than what was it then?\" Sven continued skeptically.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]281[/color][/b] \"Oh it went by many names Sven. To the Romans it was the Bacchanalia, a day of drunken reverie, a day to turn the order of the world on it's head. When peasants would be kings and kings peasants! To the Germanic furs it was the Yuletide Season, a time to tell ghost stories while the Yule log burned to bring about the rebirth of the sun, Sol Invictus they called it. That's actually what we are meant to celebrate tonight. When night falls they are going to burn the Yule log in the big fireplace.\" Kyaw said.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]282[/color][/b] \"I thought Yule was just another name for Christmas ... and isn't the sun going to come back regardless?\" Sven sassed. \"Well yeeeeah ... but it's symbolic Sven. It's the symbolic death and resurrection, it takes many forms, many symbols in many religions ...\" Kyaw said. \"It's up ahead follow me.\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]283[/color][/b] \"Well yeah, that's because everyone was copying Yeshua and Yah-Hasha!\" Sven said defensively. \"No Sven, they just copied everyone else. It's all just symbolic Sven. You should study alchemy. It's all just about transmutation of the soul!\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]284[/color][/b] \"Well that's not what I was taught!\" Sven said a little irritably. \"Well ... maybe you need a new lesson.\" Kyaw said with a know-it-all tone that got on Sven's nerves. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]285[/color][/b] \"No no no. Kyaw, your just confusing everything and got it all backwards! Satan spread those false religions around and made them to mock christians. That's why they are so similar!\" Sven retorted. It was really annoying to have everything he'd ever been taught dismissed so flippantly.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]286[/color][/b] \"Okay Sven, whatever you say. If you wanna la la la through your life then go right ahead. Anyway how bout we drop it. We're almost there!\" Kyaw added.\n \n[b][color=#ff0000]287[/color][/b] \"You know, this is why everybody thinks your family is weird! They act like they are so superior and then they go around trying to convince everyone that Christmas wasn't invented by Christians!\" Sven fired back.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]288[/color][/b] \"Ugh!\" Kyaw said throwing his head up in digust. \"I didn't say they didn't invent Christmas, I said they stole stuff from utter holidays. You think no one had winter festivals before Yeshua and Yah-Hasha came around?\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]289[/color][/b] \"J-Just - just forget it!\" Sven pouted. \"What? What is it? Why does this bother you so much? What me and my family believe?!\" Kyaw pressed. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]290[/color][/b] \"It doesn't! I don't really care what you and your family believes, but like, this is why I can't even introduce you to my family. Y'all just get off on making a scene. You try to force your beliefs on everyone and you just end up making furs dislike you. My family made a big deal about all the pagan statues in the lunch room. And I bet most of the furs going to this event are Christian and they aren't going to not like seeing them either!\" Sven said and stopped himself.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]291[/color][/b] \"Well that's just too bad init! It's a Winter Festival Sven! It's not even a Christmas Celebration! An' me an' my family have just a-much a-right to participate wid our traditions as anyone else. That's what it says on the flyer! All traditions welcome!\" Kyaw defended.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]292[/color][/b] \"Well yeah, but within reason. Stuff furs already celebrate, not random pagan god!\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]293[/color][/b] \"Oh goddess give me strength\" Kyaw said as he face palmed. \"It's all pagan Sven. All of it!\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]294[/color][/b] \"I get it now. I know what this is really all about!\" Kyaw said with his arms folded.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]295[/color][/b] \"Oh really? What's this all about then Kyaw? Since your so smart!\" Sven said back.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]296[/color][/b] \"It's about you! You are ashamed of me! You want me and my family to tone it down so you don't have to feel so ashamed being my friend. Isn't that it Sven?\" Kyaw accused.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]297[/color][/b] \" ... n-no ...\" Sven tried to deny, \"I'm just saying - you guys could - maybe make things a little easier for yourse-\" Sven began. \"You. You mean easier for YOU.\" Kyaw cut him off.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]298[/color][/b] Sven could say nothing and just shrugged. \" ... I guess\" is all he could finally add.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]299[/color][/b] \"Sigh ... this is what I'm talkin' ah-bout. You care too much what furs think and say. You already admitted you don't care yourself, yet you feel like you can't let your family know who I am and who my family is. Well Sven ... I guess - I guess I'll just go then and save you the trouble!\" and with that Kyaw crouched down under a low hanging ceiling and disappeared under it.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]300[/color][/b] \"Wait! Kyaw? Is that even safe?! Where are you going?!\" Sven said concerned. \"Oh fiddle sticks! Just leave me alone. Find your own way out if you don't like it!\" he heard Kyaw say. It sounded like there was a large opening on the other side. \"Wait - Wait!\" Sven quickly said as he got down and began crawling under the low ceiling. It was terrifying but he was desperate not to lose Kyaw. \"Why do you have to be like this! Why you got to be such a girl about EVERYTHING!\" Sven shouted in exasperation.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]301[/color][/b] \"Just leave me alone. You clearly don't like anything me or my family stands for so just go away. Then you won't have to trouble yourself with me ever again! Hmph!\" Kyaw said.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]302[/color][/b] \"... rabbits ...\" Sven grumbled under his breath as he tried to crawl to the other side. Sven finally managed to reach the other end and got up to see the low ceiling open up to another large area. It had two pillars of rock surrounded by a beautiful array of lamps, but he had larger concerns at the moment. He scanned about to find Kyaw when he noticed him already ascending a set of creaky wooden platforms and stairs weaving back and forth, clearly leading upwards and probably out of the cave. Sven started climbing up the stairs and follow Kyaw. Kyaw wasn't even looking back at him, and Sven was becoming increasingly desperate to get his attention.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]303[/color][/b] \"Oh come on Kyaw! Don't be like that! I never said I wanted to you go away!\" Sven begged.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]304[/color][/b] \"might as well have!\" was all Kyaw could say as he continued to march up and away from Sven.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]305[/color][/b] \"Well I didn't!\" Sven said defensively. \"I never said I didn't want to be your friend. Can you please stop being mad at me, I hate when you get this way with me!\" Sven begged as he tried to catch up to his friend, or at least, whom he hoped was still his friend anyway.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]306[/color][/b] Kyaw wasn't stopping, he just continued to climb. \"Did I really offend you that badly? I'm sorry Kyaw! Look I admit it! I was wrong about you, okay? Me and my friends, you are right, we all thought you were a loser, a weirdo. But I don't think that anymore. I see now. You are brave. You are clever. I'm sorry we all made fun of you back in Kindergarten!\" Sven continued.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]307[/color][/b] Kyaw kept walking up those steps, but now it was more because he wanted to hear what Sven had to say. He had to admit, Sven's words were starting to butter him up, but if he let up maybe Sven would stop pouring out his heart, and he desperately needed to hear that he was needed.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]308[/color][/b] \"Can you please stop walking away and just talk to me! Kyaw please don't end it like this.\" Sven pleaded as he stumbled up the steps. He'd never thought Kyaw would just up and abandon him, and suddenly he found himself willing to spill his guts just not to lose him. There was no one here to here his confession.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]309[/color][/b] Sven took a deep breath and prepared himself mentally. \"Kyaw LISTEN TO ME!\" he shouted as loud as he could. Kyaw despite his better judgement stopped in his tracks to hear Sven's plea. He refused however to turn around and show him his face. Kyaw would not betray his full feelings, not this time, and depending on Sven's answer, maybe never again ...\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]310[/color][/b] Sven's tone softened seeing that his words were having an effect. \"Kyaw. Listen. I like you, I really do. I don't know why I like you, but I do. You are so much fun to be around and, it's crazy, I never know what is going to happen next, but it's exciting and I really like you for some reason ...\" Sven hoped [i]that[/i] would be enough. Surely that was enough. Did he really have to admit more?\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]311[/color][/b] Kyaw just stood there silently, at least as far as Sven could tell this his back turned. Was Kyaw just asking for more pain? Should he just steal his resolve and keep going forward? Could he ever truly be accepted as a boy?\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]312[/color][/b] Sven became increasingly worried and frantic. He'd fucked up. Oh shit had he fucked up. Was this it? Was he really going to lose his one real friend? The only one he could be completely himself with?! Tears began to form in his eyes despite his best efforts not to get emotional over ... over something so silly. This boy was the last boy to make friends with, why was he so desperate for his approval. The inner turmoil was reaching a boiling point.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]313[/color][/b] Kyaw had waited enough. He couldn't take it anymore either. He started to walked back up the steps towards the light.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]314[/color][/b] \"Wait!\" Sven shouted out, barely choking down a tear. \"Kyaw, I don't want to lose you! Please don't stop being my friend!\" Sven pleaded desperately. Kyaw began to tear, but still he kept trying to push himself forward. \"You're special to me. I know it doesn't make sense but don't end it this way. I want to be your friend and be there for you. You - you're the first furson whose ever said they like like me.\" Sven said, hardly believing it himself, what he was saying. But there it was.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]315[/color][/b] Kyaw stopped himself to simply say, \"I doubt that...\". \"Huh?\" was Sven's confused upset response. \"I doubt that Sven. I doubt I'm the first.\" Kyaw lamented sadly. It took a moment for the words to sink in for Sven. Did that mean, some girls actually liked him. He rubbed the tears out of his eyes and gathered his thoughts. \"What I mean is ... you are the first furson whose ever told me that to my face\". Kyaw could help but starting to tear up himself. \"Yeah ... well ... maybe I shouldn't have. Maybe I should have kept it to myself\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]316[/color][/b] \"But - I'm glad you did. It's something I needed to hear from someone. I didn't think anyone did.\" Sven smiled through his tears.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]317[/color][/b] \"hmph ... shows how much you know.\" Kyaw said despondently as he kicked some peddles fitfully. He didn't know what to do himself. His better judgement told him to try to end things now and not get hurt later, but Sven's sweet voice beckoned, and Kyaw knew his words and tears were coming from a sincere place and that meant a lot to him. \"Do - do you still think I'm a weirdo?\" Kyaw finally said, refusing to look back and let Sven off the hook yet, despite his heart beginning to betray his intentions.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]318[/color][/b] \"I mean you're different, no arguing that! Heh heh!\" Sven laughed the way one laughs after one has been crying, but then his tone became more soft and serious. \"But I wouldn't call you a weirdo ... not now. Not after knowing you. That sounds mean, and that's [i]not[/i] how I feel. I like you a lot Kyaw. You're the best friend I've ever had.\" and with that Sven finally smiled unreservedly up towards the dear little bunny.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]319[/color][/b] Kyaw smiled to himself but refused to turn around and reveal that to Sven. \"You really mean that?\" Kyaw couldn't help asking.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]320[/color][/b] \"Yeah I do.\" Sven said sweetly. \"Then why couldn't you say my name?\" Kyaw asked.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]321[/color][/b] \"What are you talking about?\" Sven replied. \"On the cliff. You avoided saying my name. And why does your older brother keep calling me Kevin?\" Kyaw pressed. \"Oh ... uh ...\" Sven didn't have an answer to that one, or rather, he did but he wasn't about to say it.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]322[/color][/b] \"You haven't told your family my real name have you. You made up a fake name . Is that it Sven?\" Kyaw continued to press.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]323[/color][/b] \"Look Kyaw\" Sven began. \"Is it true?\" Kyaw demanded. Sven paused and finally relented. \"Yes ...\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]324[/color][/b] He continued, \"... but this was a long time ago, when I wasn't so sure about things, and well, it kind of just kept going. You know the reputation you have. Everyone has heard of the 'ballerina boy'.\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]325[/color][/b] \"So you made up a name so that no one would figure out you were friends with the 'famous' Kyaw bits. Is that it?\" Kyaw said sadly.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]326[/color][/b] \"I couldn't risk them finding out your real name.\" Sven said plainly. \"And that is why you have never introduced me to your family...\" Kyaw said disappointed.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]327[/color][/b] \" Oh Kyaw. Can't you just understand things from my point of view? I have friends, I'm well liked, furs look up to me, I don't want to lose that ... but ... I don't want to lose you either. Can't we just keep our friendship a secret? No one needs to know. It doesn't mean I don't like you.\" Sven tried to reassure.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]328[/color][/b] Kyaw couldn't contain himself anymore more, he turned around to show tears of rage. \"I get it Sven. It's very nice that you like me, but how do you think that makes me feel? Everyone rejects me without even knowing me! And here you are, and you say you know better, but you are unwilling to try and change anyfur's mind! You say your well liked, well maybe furs would listen to you if you spoke up for me more. Instead of just hiding that we are friends!\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]329[/color][/b] \"Kyaw, I can't magically change everyfurs mind. They only like me because - because -\" Sven realized he couldn't say it outloud.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]330[/color][/b] \"Because you don't try to, I get it. 'Cause you just go along with what everyone else does. And I don't and that's why no body likes me, right?\" Kyaw said clenching his fists in frustration.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]331[/color][/b] \"Well ... I mean you could at least just [i]try[/i] to fit in, you know. See how it goes?\" Sven said with an apologetic shrug.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]332[/color][/b] \"UGH! I HAVE BEEN TRYING! I wore this coat because of you. My whole family wanted me to wear a pretty Christmas dress for the Winter Salstace, and I kept saying no. And they were all disappointed cause they said I would look all pretty and darling. And you know why I refused?\" Kyaw shouted.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]333[/color][/b] Sven shrugged. \"To make you happy Sven! To make you like me! Maybe I am just a stupid 'girl', and I guess you don't like girls, so just stick to your boy friends.\" Kyaw said in a huff, and started walking back up the steps.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]334[/color][/b] This got Sven a bit miffed. \"They're my FRIENDS Kyaw! FRIENDS! Not my BOYFRIENDS! Maybe you 'GIRLS' have GIRLFRIENDS, but us boys don't have boyfriends! Got it?!\". That stung, but Kyaw was not without some sense of pride, and he just felt more angered by the comment than anything.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]335[/color][/b] \"Well then, maybe I don't want to be a BOY if - if all the rules are so STUPID!\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]336[/color][/b] \"KYAW!\" Sven shouted up at him. \"WHAT?!\" Kyaw said turning around to face him once more. \"But you [i]are[/i] a BOY! Just the way you are! Forget all these boy rules, alright? No one can take that away from you if you don't let them! And you don't need to change anything for me. What I mean is ... don't decide who to be on account of me. Or anyone for that matter.\" Sven pleaded.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]337[/color][/b] Kyaw appreciated those words, but was still conflicted. \"I gotta go Sven. I should get back to my family anyway.\" he said.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]338[/color][/b] \"But ... we didn't even get to go sledding. That's what we did all this for? You want to quit now.\" Sven tried to reason. Kyaw thought about that for a moment. Then he turned around. \"Here.\" he said, and tossed the car keys back to Sven. \"Those belong to you. Bye Sven. I should go now\" Kyaw said as he started to hop up towards the fading morning light.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]339[/color][/b] \"Wait Kyaw, don't go. Don't give up! Let's forget about all this and just have a nice time together. That's all I wanted. I just wanted us to sleigh together, just the two of us. None of this other stuff matters.\" Sven said as he chased after Kyaw. But Kyaw was already gone, and turned the corner out into the afternoon light ...\n\n[center][color=#00bf00]*[b]19[/b]*[/color][/center]\n[b][color=#00bf00]340[/color][/b] The next thing Sven heard was Kyaw falling over into the snow and his brother laughing.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]341[/color][/b] \"Kyaw! Are you alright.\" he said as he helped Kyaw get up. His face was covered in snow. \"I'm alright Sven. It's okay.\" Kyaw tried to reassure even though his eyes were all red and he looked cold.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]342[/color][/b] \"HA HA HA! I got you good FAGBIT!\" gloated Sigmund standing at the top of the hill. There was a large opening covered in snow leading down into the caverns they had just come from.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]343[/color][/b] Sven got mad and shouted, \"WHY CAN'T YOU JUST LEAVE HIM ALONE! HE HASN'T DONE ANYTHING TO YOU!\" up at his brother.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]344[/color][/b] \"Pah! That little pansy bit my ankle. Can't fight with his fists so he resorts to using his teeth like an animal!\" Sigmund said folding his arms. \"And don't think you're off the hook either Sven. You lied to mom and dad and you kicked me in the head. I can still feel it, but don't worry you'll get yours next ... but first ... hey FAGBIT give me back those keys!\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]345[/color][/b] \"Stop calling him that Lardass!\" Sven shot back.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]346[/color][/b] \"Oh ho ho ... that really stings lil bro\" Sigmund said Sarcastically. \"But it ain't gonna save neither of ya!\". And with that Sigmund started marching down the hill. Hopping with his kangaroo legs and making surprisingly quick work of it despite his large size. If anything it made him more intimidating as he took a lot of snow down with him. It looked like a large bolder coming for them. Even Sven was a little intimidated. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]347[/color][/b] \"Run Kyaw, he's after you\" he said as he tried to push Kyaw away. \"No Sven, follow me, we can still lose him\" Kyaw pleaded and pulled at his arm desperately. \"No. Just run away. I can hold him off and convince him we are done. Then he will leave you alone\" Sven said. Kyaw continued to pull but it was no use. Sven seemed determined to end this and protect his friend. \"We can't escape Kyaw. We've been trying all day! Just trust me!\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]348[/color][/b] The boys were still struggling when Sigmund came barreling down towards them. Kyaw refused to let go of Sven, despite Sven's best efforts to push him away for his own good.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]349[/color][/b] Sigmund wasted no time. While the boys struggled he grabbed Kyaw by the ears and pulled as hard as he could \"OW! OW! OW!\" Kyaw shouted. \"Give me the fucking keys you little piece of shit!\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]350[/color][/b] Sven felt a flush of rage flash through his whole body like he'd never felt before. He didn't even say anything. He grabbed Sigmunds arm that was pulling on Kyaw's ears with both of his arms for balance and then he launched into kick after kick after kick right in Sigmund's gut with all his strength! \"LET HIM GO! LET HIM GO! LET HIM GO!\" he kept repeating, while kicking his kanga legs like a machine gun, one kick for each word! Sigmund was caught off guard by the speed and furiosity of his little brothers blows. He let go to put his paws around his stomach. He collapsed to his knees. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]351[/color][/b] \"I've got the keys Sig. Here See!\" Sven took them out of his pocket to prove it. \"So leave him out of it. I mean it Sig! He's my friend and you are NOT going to hurt him! Not if I can help it!\" Sven said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]352[/color][/b] Sigmund scowled. He was pissed now. \"That does it. I'm beating the shit outta you first Sven, I don't care what mom and dad do to me after!\", and when he looked up Sven momentarily felt a shiver of fright run down his spine. The look on Sigmund's face said it all, he was done, playing, he was out for blood.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]353[/color][/b] Kyaw seeing Sven frozen in fear, grabbed him. \"Come on let's go!\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]354[/color][/b] Kyaw lead Sven back to the stairs they'd just left, but this time they were going to climb further up. There was a inclined path upwards. \"We gotta climb!\" Kyaw said as he scrambled upwards. Sigmund was right behind them and he was mad.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]355[/color][/b] When they got to the top Kyaw looked around confused. \"Shoot! Where is it!\" he said. \"Uh Kyaw my brother is right behind us!\" Sven said concerned. \"There was a little gap right here, where'd it - SVEN - we got to dig through the snow, hurry!\". There had been a snow-in and the exit Kyaw had counted on had gotten plugged. The two boys frantically dug through the snow until some daylight peaked through. It led directly to the top of the hill! Then Sven started shoving Kyaw through to safety. Sigmund scrambled as quick as he could up the ledges. He wasn't as good at climbing up as climbing down, but he was nearly there all the same. Kyaw offered his paw to pull Sven through.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]356[/color][/b] Sven was only about halfway through when Sigmund got a hold of one of his feet. \"Imma kill you Svy!\" Sigmund said as he desperately tried to get a good grip and pull his brother through to the other side. Sven kept squirming about and kicking when he could to get himself free. Kyaw tried to pull with all his strength but he couldn't seem to get a firm grip either.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]357[/color][/b] It was then that Sigmund grabbed a hold of Sven's tail and he started getting pulled back inside. \"NO! SVEN!\" Kyaw said desperately trying to hold on. \"It's alright. Imma turn around and I need you to push me through.\" Sven said. \"What?\" Kyaw exclaimed. Sven smiled and that let Kyaw know he had an idea. Sven flipped himself over putting his legs atop. When Kyaw pushed Sven through Sigmund suddenly found himself falling over backwards, meanwhile Sven slid through the hole like a bobsledder!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]358[/color][/b] As Sven sped into his brother's gut, he used his powerful legs to rebound off of him which sent Sigmund into a tumble. Sigmund realized he was about to fall so he let go of Sven's tail and Sven bounced off his stomach. Sigmund had to use his paws to stop himself from slipping all the way down and getting seriously hurt. Meanwhile Sven had leaped all the way back to the hole. He quickly crawled through it before Sigmund could get back his bearings. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]359[/color][/b] When Sigmund did finally get back turned around and hastily crawled on his paws and knees to grab Sven's tail again, all he snatched was empty air as Kyaw pulled him safely to the other side.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]360[/color][/b] \"Fuckin'-fuck-fucks\" Sigmund grunted in annoyance as he tried to scramble through the hole only to find it was too tight a squeeze for him. \"ARG!\" he shouted in annoyance as he tried to force the snow ice and dirt out of his way, struggling mightily against it all. Nothing, and I mean nothing was going to stop him wringing both their scrawny little necks at this point!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]361[/color][/b] \"Crap! He's gonna make it through!\" Sven said as he watched his brother force himself with all his strength. \"This way!\" Kyaw instructed.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]362[/color][/b] They climbed up the snowy hill where they'd first seen Sigmund standing. Once atop they could see the ski lift off to the right. Sven looked up momentarily towards the high mountain cliff where the lift made a brief pass over. \"Sven what are you doing, come this way!\" Kyaw said as he pulled him to their left. A lamppost marked yet another area for visitors to explore. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]363[/color][/b] They quickly running down a set up steps and finding themselves in a region that had many openings in the ceiling, letting in big piles of snow. They used their roo and rabbit instincts to quickly hop through it. This was no time for gingerly going about on twos ... this was serious business.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]364[/color][/b] \"How are we gonna lose him?!\" Sven demanded. \"I gotta plan!\" Kyaw reassured. \"Another one?! Cause those - huff - have worked out - huff - so brilliantly - huff - thus far!\" Sven said sarcastically. \"Oh hush - huff - you!\" Kyaw replied. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]365[/color][/b] Sven could hear some younger kits playing above their heads and noticed some snowballs being chucked as he looked up through the gaps in the ceiling towards the bright blue sky, but he only had a moment to notice this before he was focusing on what was ahead as the two of them leapt down deeper into the caverns.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]366[/color][/b] Meanwhile Sigmund had managed to wiggle himself free already, and was already tracking their tracks over to the lamppost. He caught a glimpse of them running down as there was an opening that showed the area below. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]367[/color][/b] Sven looked behind him. \"Where do you think my brother is?\" he asked, just as they ran out into a large empty area. \"I don't know, just come on.\" Kyaw said as the boys slowed down to catch their breaths. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]368[/color][/b] They found themselves at the bottom of that valley Sven had noticed earlier when they'd first passed by this area. It was beautiful, especially with the snow coming gently down all around them from that twilight sky. Unfortunately they didn't have much time to appreciate the view. \"We got to do this quick. Follow me!\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]369[/color][/b] Kyaw had both of them hop all the way to the end of the Valley, creating tracks and then walk back to their own tracks to a large bolder in the middle of the valley. As they did this they didn't know they were being tentatively watched by some curious little eyes who found themselves amused.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]370[/color][/b] Kyaw then instructed Sven to climb the rock with him just as they both heard \"Where are you twerps!\" as Sigmund rounded the corner into the valley.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]371[/color][/b] The boys took cover behind the bolder and crouched down behind it so they were out of sight. \"Shhhh!\" Kyaw whispered to Sven. Sven decided to hold Sven tight in his arms. Perhaps he felt instinctively a need to protect him. Whatever the reason, Kyaw didn't complain and happily sit perfectly still in Sven's lap as they held their breath hoping their ruse would work.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]372[/color][/b] \"Hey ... you cupcakes know you can't hide from me right? I can see your fucking tracks in the snow. There is no way you can get away, so you might as well accept your asswhoppings. Surrender now and maybe I'll have some mercy on you.\" Sigmund shouted out, hoping they'd make his job easier. No such luck. \"Hmph\" grunted Sigmund. He'd just have to smoke 'em out himself. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]373[/color][/b] Sigmund was just passing the bolder when Kyaw tried to take a peak out and had to pull back and hide. Kyaw gripped Sven's paw a little tighter to let him know that Sigmund was right there. Sven laid his head atop Kyaw to let him know he was safe and that he'd always love and protect him, even if he couldn't bring himself to say that outloud.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]374[/color][/b] Sigmund was a little suspicious of the tracks but none the less he took the bait and kept following them past the bolder, trying to make sense of them.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]375[/color][/b] Kyaw double tapped Sven's arms to let him go. Sven let go and Kyaw peaked around the corner to see Sigmund was facing towards the dead end, about to discover the end of the tracks. Kyaw quickly ran back and grabbed Sven's paw. \"Time to go.\" he whispered. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]376[/color][/b] So far the diversion had worked. Now all they had to do was climb out of the valley on the other end before Sigmund started heading back this way. If this didn't work Kyaw had no other ideas left for how they could lose them. He'd used every resource he'd known of to try and make an escape and give Sigmund the slip up, but everytime he'd proven too daring too determined and too smart to be completely stopped by it. He'd climbed out of the pit he'd gotten him to jump down. He'd crawled through the hole he'd got him stuck in. Would he be able to get him going around in circles in the Valley while they made their escape? He hoped so!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]377[/color][/b] Kyaw had them walk back over their own tracks they'd walked in with. He'd also created a little loop on the other side to further confuse him. Now it was time to make their escape with Sigmund hopefully none the wiser. Both of them nodded as they held their paws together. They knew what they had to do. With that they got all the spring in their legs to jump them all the way from the snow up to a rocky ledge on the other end where they were prepared to climb out.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]378[/color][/b] At that moment Sigmund had reached the far end of the valley and saw that the footprints looped around back to around to join back with the path. \"Pah! They went over their own tracks, think they're so clever!\" Sigmund said dismissively. Still he needed to figure out where they disappeared to. He surveyed the area trying to guess what trick they might have pulled when he got up on his tippy toes and noticed the large bolder around the corner. \"Ha! They're hiding behind the bolder!\" he said to himself with a wicked smile.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]379[/color][/b] By this point the boys had nearly climbed out of the valley. They were long gone from the bolder and now it was a clear run out of there and to safety! \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]380[/color][/b] When they got nearly to the top they saw a pair of twin kitten, twittens, as their family liked to call them, staring at them with big round eyes. They'd been watching them this whole time. \"Uh ... hello.\" Sven said not sure how to feel about this turn of events.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]381[/color][/b] The Twittens looked at each other, and a little sneaky smile creeped up their faces. \"HEY MISTER THEY'RE OVER HERE!\" the twittens shouted in unison. 'Great! Kittens man. Born trouble makers', Sven thought crossly to himself. Sigmund hearing that quickly bounded over to see the boys nearly at the top of the cliff. \"CRAP!\" Sven shouted in annoyance. The twittens giggled in amusement. They were both three, and it was all just fun and games to them, so you'll have to forgive them.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]382[/color][/b] \"Come on let's just get out of here!\" Kyaw said as the both of them tried to scramble to quickly finish their climb. Sigmund was there in a jiffy it seemed, and already making quick work of the cliff. At every turn Sigmund was better, faster, stronger, and smarter, than them. What chance did two six year olds have against a twelve year old? They were doomed! There was no way they could get out of this without a thwamping!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]383[/color][/b] That's when Sven got an idea! \"Hey, you see that big boy down there little kittens?\" he said to the twittens. \"He's fat and smelly. You should throw snowballs at him! Hey I bet one of you could even knock him off! It can be a game!\" Sven said enthusiastically. The Twittens looked at each other again, and another little devious grin crossed their faces. They started gathering snow as Sven helped Kyaw up the last step.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]384[/color][/b] Just then Sven got a snowball in the back. \"hehe\" one of the twittens giggled. It was Billie. The Twittens were rascally twin boys named Billie and Alec, and their folks like to call them Silly Billie and Smarty Alec respectively. \"Hey! I meant him not me!\" Sven said as he pointed down at his skeezy half-brother still scaling the cliff. \"Come on Billie. Let's see who can get him to fall off first!\" said Alec, and with that the Alec tossed down a snowball onto Sigmunds face, a surprisingly good shot for such a young age. \"Hey! This doesn't concern you whiskers!\" shouted Sigmund.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]385[/color][/b] Well that did it! The two little twittens got to work pelting Sigmund with snow in rapid fire taking turns as they tossed them down. \"Hey! HEY! KNOCK THAT OFF YOU PIPSQUEAKS!\" Sigmund shouted even louder trying his best to intimidate them into compliance, but this just of course encouraged them further and they enjoyed the reactions. They giggled and snickered and found it all quite hilarious. Naughty little kittens, and worst yet, they definitely had their mittens!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]386[/color][/b] The boys quickly made a run for it. They ran careful to make their way around the holes in the ceiling they'd just walked under. Sigmund was slowed down by being pelted by snow in his face, but not deterred. He continued to make his way up the cliff, slowly and carefully.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]387[/color][/b] When he got to the top he did not hesitate to push the little silly billie down. \"Hey, that's my brotha!\" little smarty Alec shouted as he bit Sigmund's ankle drawing blood. \"AH! Git off!\" he said and flicked him off with a little kick. Alec landed in the snow a few feet away. Both of them cried as Sigmund heartlessly marched on to create even more misery. Nothing was going to stop him. Not a bunch of snot nosed brats anyway.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]388[/color][/b] Kyaw and Sven had stopped to catch their breaths when Sven heard the crying twittens. There was Sigmund marching towards them like an unstoppable beast, like the god damned terminator. Was there no way to stop this menace?!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]389[/color][/b] \"Good lord. He's STILL after us! You got any more bright ideas?!\" Sven demanded as Kyaw panted desperately trying to catch his breath. \"That - was - the - last - one - I - had!\" he panted out. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]390[/color][/b] \"Given up twerps?\" Sigmund said as he closed the distance. \"Finally realized it's hopeless? Guess it's payback time!\" he said rolling up his sleeves.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]391[/color][/b] Great! The light was fading fast and so were their chances of escape. They were doomed!\n\n[center][color=#ff0000]*[b]20[/b]*[/color][/center]\n[b][color=#ff0000]392[/color][/b] Kyaw panted and panted. He wasn't used to having to run around this much. \"Sven - I don't think I can keep going much longer -\" Kyaw said with a tone of desperation. This was bad!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]393[/color][/b] Sven looked around to some idea some plan of what they could do next. His eyes were once again drawn to the Ski Lift that loomed large in thier line of line. Again he was drawn to the precarious peak the ski lift perched itself on before beginning it's slow descent to the drop-off point. He gulped as he realized what they had to do. \"That's it! It's the only way. Come on!\" Sven said as he pulled Kyaw up. \"Wha? Where are we going now?\" Kyaw said weakly. \"I've got a plan! Trust me! Hehe\" Sven smiled. \" - okay\" Kyaw said as he got up to his feet.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]394[/color][/b] \"Hey! Where do you think you punks are going! Get back here!\" Sigmund shouted as he started to walk faster. \"We gotta make a run for it.\" Sven warned his friend. \"I know\" Kyaw smiled. And with that they made one last desperate sprint with Sven leading the way, but it didn't take long for Kyaw to realize they were running towards the Ski Lift.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]395[/color][/b] It seemed hopelessly far away until they got over the hill and saw the little terminal station not but 40 feet away. It was such a relief to their eyes to realize how close they were. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]396[/color][/b] \"Hey! Stop running away! You got no where to run to you lil ijits!\" Sigmund shouted as he tried to push himself to keep chasing after them. The truth was though, he was becoming tired himself. He wasn't used to expending this much energy either. The only one who still had stamina left was Sven. He had a lot of practice running rounding those bases he was known for, that and pitching a mean fast one.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]397[/color][/b] At this point Sven was pulling Kyaw by the arm as Kyaw was panting with his tongue out. Kyaw was beginning to taste the blood in his mouth with all the bitter cold quickly going in and out of his lungs.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]398[/color][/b] Working both in their favor and too their disadvantage was getting across high snow again, with it slowing down both Sigmund and them. Still they all pushed themselves to keep going, with Sigmund and Sven the most determined at this point to see this through to the end.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]399[/color][/b] It seemed to take a while, time seemed to be going too fast with the sun now beginning to go down and the sky becoming golden soon to be a deep wintery dark blue, but Sven and Kyaw finally made it up the steps. There was no time to lose. Sigmund would be there at any moment.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]400[/color][/b] \"We got to board\" Sven said. The two boys ran to chase down the furthest cabin. They caught up to it, opened the door and got on just as Sigmund made his way up the steps to see them slip aboard. The little red cabin started to make it's ascent past the gates, just as Sigmund ran to the end and missed it. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]401[/color][/b] Sven saw as they ascended leaving Sigmund just standing there at the gate annoyed. Sven looked out the window towards his brother and stuck out his tongue and pressed it to the window \"Nah-nah-nah-nah-nah!\" he teased as he put his thumbs in his ears and wiggled his mittens at him, showing him he'd had them all along! Sigmund narrowed his eyes in resentment. He hated that little stringbean of a brother.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]402[/color][/b] Kyaw was laying on the floor plopped up on the side catching his breath. \"Sven - those windows are filthy - don't stick - your tongue - out on them!\" Kyaw managed to get out. \"Oh! Now whose being all proper!\" Sven said with a grin. \"heh\" Kyaw said as he managed to crack a smile.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]403[/color][/b] Sigmund wasn't down for the count yet though. He waited patiently for the next cabin to swing around and boarded without hesitation. He stood at the window and looked up towards his pesky little brother from below. Sven looked down at him with a look of disdain. Such mean spiritedness. Such cruelty. Had ... Sven been that way? Towards Kyaw and furs like Kyaw? Maybe he'd not been that much different teasing and mocking 'sissies' with his friends. Maybe Sven felt a little bit of hatred of himself in that moment. I - I don't want to be that fur anymore. He turned around to look back at Kyaw and he simply smiled. Kyaw looked up at him and he smiled back. They didn't need to say anything. They felt it, with their eyes and their smiles. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]404[/color][/b] Sven got down from his perch, out of the view of his brother. \"Where's he going?\" thought Sigmund as he could no longer see either of the boys in the cabin. But it didn't matter. They were going to the same place. The Cabin ride was slow but when they got where they were going the chase would be on again, they'd only won themselves a momentary reprieve. Sigmund was prepared to chase them to the ends of the earth. He got himself comfortable and sat in the back with his legs crossed and his arms behind him. All he needed now was a little patience.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]405[/color][/b] Sven got down and sat next to Kyaw. He cupped his paw with his mittens and smiled. He just wanted to be close to him in this moment. No more being afraid all the time. He pressed against Kyaw affectionately and pressed his cheek against Kyaw's. Kyaw rested his head on Sven. He was so happy in this moment. Kyaw gripped Sven's paw a little firmer. And there they quietly sat holding hands as they slowly gained elevation and the sun slowly lost it every second.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]406[/color][/b] \"Sven. I just wanna say, I - I'm sorry about the way I talked to you earlier. Actions speak louder than words and I see now ... you truly do -\" Kyaw began to say. \"Shhhh ...\" Sven said as he put his fingers to Kyaws lips. Then Sven turned to Kyaw's ear and whispered. \"Don't say it ... somethings are better left unsaid.\". Then he gave Kyaw's paw a little squeeze and he kissed Kyaw on the cheek. \"... and you're welcome\". And with that he snuggled up next to Kyaw and stared up at the twilight sky. Both boys smiled and settled in. They were tired and they felt comfortable and warm next to each other. Kyaw was right. Sometimes words just get in the way. Sometimes you just need to feel things and enjoy the moment...\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]407[/color][/b] Sigmund was getting impatient as they slowly made there way up to the steep cliff. He couldn't wait to get his hands around the necks. The only question was which first! His obnoxious little usurping brother or the twatty lil fagbit! \"Decisions decisions\" he grinned to himself. Perhaps his hatred was his only real joy in life, and perhaps that calls more for pity than malice at the end of the day ... what say ye?\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]408[/color][/b] \"So ...\" Kyaw began sleepily cuddled into Sven's neck, \"what's our next move?\"\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]409[/color][/b] \"We're going to get out of the cabin when we hit the peak and take another cabin back down.\" Sven said nonchalantly. \"ARE YOU CRAZY!\" Kyaw got up and shouted. Sven just looked up at his friend and smiled a cocky smile. Then he gave Kyaw a playful little shove to the shoulder. \"Oh you're one to talk! After everything you put me through? Haha!\" he said. \"Okay, okay, guess you got me there. Let's just try not to die, okay?\" Kyaw said.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]410[/color][/b] Another minute went by before Sven poked his head up to the window to see that they were nearly there. Seeing that peak though freaked him out. Gulp. Maybe this wasn't such a great idea.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]411[/color][/b] \"Uh ... maybe this wasn't such a hot idea.\" Sven said. \"Oh come on. Don't tell me you're getting cold feet now when you've taken us this far!\" Kyaw replied. Sven and his big mouth. Well alright. If that was how Kyaw was going to play it Sven would just have to follow through with his plan.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]412[/color][/b] \"Fine. Let's go then.\" Sven said moving over to the door on the right side of the cabin, not the one they came from but the other one. He peeked through the door window until the cabin just began to coast over the cliff edge. \"Now!\" He shouted and opened the door. The rush of cold fresh air in high up in the mountains with a clear shot of the vastness of their surroundings was terrifying and he was momentarily stunned, but this was no time to wait around. They only had a brief window to get off. \"Go!\" Kyaw insisted. \"Hold my hand.\" He said as he gripped Kyaw's paw. \"We jump together on three. One. Two. THREE!\". Sven had to close his eyes, ill advised as that is, but he was able to take that leap of faith on to the snowy mountain top ... a small area surrounded by a thousand foot drop on every side!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]413[/color][/b] They slid a little forward due to the momentum, but with the both of them holding their hands together they were able to slow themselves against the snow pretty quickly. They were far enough that Sigmund wouldn't see them up there until his cabin passed by. Now for the really scary part. One maybe too dangerous for either of them. They needed to snag a cabin car on the return trip on the opposite side.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]414[/color][/b] \"I can't believe I'm doing this\" Sven said barely holding it together. It was cold up here. Really cold. That certainly didn't help with his nerves, but how could he protect Kyaw if he couldn't be at least as brave as him. And they were in danger up here. They had no choice now but to get on that car. What was the other option? Wait to be rescued? Wait to be seen by Sigmund?\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]415[/color][/b] \"That one! We're getting on that one!\" Sven said pointed at a cabin car approaching the peak. He said it without thinking about it, because if he thought about it for more than one second his voice would have faltered and he'd have given himself away. Being a boy was pretending to be brave even when he was not. Not to show off, not to be better than everyone else, but so others could depend on them. Kyaw might not exactly be scared but Sven had to at least show him that he could be brave too. Just once he wanted to have courage like Kyaw. Sven couldn't believe what he was saying, but it was true! He wanted to learn to be courageous like Kyaw, a sissy no less, but a sissy with a heart of gold and a will of steel.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]416[/color][/b] Sven lead the charge to the other side of the precipice as the car got frighteningly within reach. It was frightening because they'd only have one chance to get this right. \"My hero!\" Kyaw said admiringly. \"Don't praise me yet!\" Sven said still not sure of his capabilities despite the brave face he was trying to put on for his friend.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]417[/color][/b] Sven realized he'd need a little runway, so he started to run towards the cabin car, pulling Sven along. \"Wait Sven do you know what we're doing?\" Kyaw said a little worried. \"I sure as hell HOPE SO!\" he said as he ran full speed towards the cabin, towards the very edge of the cliff. If he missed this they might very well slip and keep going off the edge of the mountain!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]418[/color][/b] Sven eyes became laser focused on one point - The handle of the cabin door. He was going to grab it and let the car stop them. He'd slide the door open and then the car would drag them along. All they would need to do is catch up with it in time and hop in before they went over the edge. Heh. What could be easier? Well, maybe throwing a baseball into an empty soup can from 500 feet away, but that was beside the point!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]419[/color][/b] Sven grabbed the handle, the door slid open, and suddenly the boys found themselves pulled to a full stop and whipped in the other direction!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]420[/color][/b] The boys tried to outrun the cabin but were having trouble catching up. Kyaw just could not run that fast. There was only one way they were going to make it ... \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]421[/color][/b] \"Kyaw jump my back!\" Sven said. Kyaw took one little bunny leap onto Sven's back and Sven was off to the races bounding forward as fast as he could with his springy roo legs. The edge was rapidly approaching. There was no turning back now. They'd go over the cliff even [i]if[/i] Sven put on the full breaks, unless they jumping into that cabin car!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]422[/color][/b] With one last burst of speed Sven galloped a little to the right, as the door began to slowly close shut, caught up with the cabin and leaped into the cabin just the doorway was suspended in midair! The boys practically flew into that car and the thing bobbed back and forth a little as the door slid itself closed.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]423[/color][/b] Both of them were collapsed to the floor spent, breathing heavily, letting their near brush with death sink in. \"Let's never do that again...\" Kyaw said. \"Agreed\" Sven said in accord.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]424[/color][/b] Sven forced himself to get up and peak through the window. There was Sigmund's car passing by them, with him none the wiser. He'd sat himself in the back patiently waiting for the ride to end so he could chase after them on the other side of the mountain. He'd missed their death-defying leap! Sven slid down in relief. He wanted to cry, he wanted to laugh, he felt incredible joy, he felt like he was going insane. In the end he did a little bit of everything.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]425[/color][/b] \"hehe ... heh heh ... HA HA ... HAHAHA!\" Sven began to laugh through his tears. \"Sven, is everything alright!\" Kyaw patting Sven leg in concern. Sven wiped away some tears and smiled. \"Are you kidding! I've never been better. I can't believe I fucking did that! And Sigmund has NO FUCKING IDEA! HAHAHA!\" Sven shouted. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]426[/color][/b] \"Wait ... really?\" Kyaw said as he quickly looked out the window to see Sigmund just as he went over the cliff and out of sight. \"Yeah really! He still thinks we are in the cabin up ahead! Man, that was insane, but I feel so amazing! WHOOOO!\" Sven shouted and breathed a sigh of relief.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]427[/color][/b] \"That's the adrana-line. You should probably sit down and calm down.\" Kyaw said as he planted himself, legs crossed and arms out onto the chairs with the windows behind him showing the Rec Center and the beautiful sunset. \"Alright\" Sven said as he sat himself on the opposite side of the cabin, and admired the view. The outside view that is. But he couldn't help but take little furtive glances towards his friend sitting there. There was something weird about the way Kyaw was sitting. Something that invited the eyes attention. As if his body was giving him permission to approach. Sven had never seen it before. No girl had ever looked at him that way before. Kyaw for his part was very relaxed in this moment. His body felt squirmy and it craved contact from Sven. It's almost he instinctively wanted to reward Sven for protecting and rescuing him.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]428[/color][/b] \"Come sit next to me Sven\" Kyaw said, patting the spot next to him invitingly. \"Oh ... uh ... okay ... sure ... I guess that'd be okay.\" Sven said as he sheepishly went to the other side. He sat a respectful distance away and put his paws on his knees. It's like he was saying he wouldn't dare make a move on the rabbit. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]429[/color][/b] Kyaw gave a momentary little scowl. He was displeased. But no matter. Kyaw knew what he wanted right now and wasn't shy about getting it. He scooted over until his bunny bun bumped into Sven's.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]430[/color][/b] Then he put his arms around Sven's Chest and nuzzled his head into the shoulder of Sven's neck. \"Oh hey ... uh ... hold on ... um ...\" Sven stumbled with his words. \"Sven, I'm cold and I'm tired. Just put your arms around me ... please\" Kyaw said. \"... um ... okay\" Sven said deciding he didn't really want to protest anymore.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]431[/color][/b] He put his arms around Kyaw's shoulders. He tried to quietly breath out a sigh of relief without making a sound. Could he ... put his hands where he wanted? Was Kyaw allowing him to touch him? Sven had his arm wrapped stiffly and awkwardly upon his shoulder. He began to relax it and move it gently down Kyaw's side. Kyaw instantly moved and shifted to allow Sven to move his paw further down. He knew exactly what Sven was doing and he was totally open to it.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]432[/color][/b] Sven's hand continued down and Kyaw's fur was so incredibly soft and pleasant. Even under the layers of coat he could feel how soft and giving Kyaw's body was. Sven had never felt something quite so pleasant. He let his hand slide down and wander, pressing against Kyaw's soft belly fur and making it's way towards Kyaw's hips.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]433[/color][/b] Sven's eyes were closed, as if somehow that kept the left side of his brain from knowing what the right side of his brain was up to! He sighed a pleasurable sigh of relief, and smiled. All the ache in his muscles from running about all day suddenly felt pleasant feeling up this soft and willing little bunny boy. Kyaw felt it too. He also sighed and nuzzled into Sven's firm and sturdy body, a pleasant sensation to the supple little rabbit in its own right. He felt safe in Sven's grasp and he was willing to let himself be Sven's plaything if it pleased him.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]434[/color][/b] Dreamily Sven thought to himself, is this - what it feels like to hold a girl? Oh god ... it felt so good. And with that Sven couldn't help but move his hand down daring to feel the little nook where Kyaw's hip met his leg. Then he felt around the soft girth of Kyaw's hips. Bliss. His eyes began to flicker as if beginning to wake from a pleasant dream ...\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]435[/color][/b] When his eyes finally did open he saw an approaching cabin car on the opposite end full of a family of skiing skunkettes. A mother and her daughters, two teens, and a little girl around Sven's age. Sven was instantly mortified and quickly pulled away from Kyaw, causing him to fall over, and sat by himself with his paws on his knees like he did before. As if he was deathly ashamed, as if he felt as guilty as sin ... as the car passed by. The youngest girl in the opposite car took notice of the strange awkward shy boy. She gave him a little wave. Sven felt very awkward and he barely managed to raise his paw and twiddle his fingers in reply, mainly to be polite. He was blushing now something frightful, and felt a warm flush of guilt and shame over his whole body. He REALLY hoped none of those girls had seen what he was up to. His deathly intense fear of girls had also flared up again, and he once again felt ashamed for his inability to so much as give an enthusiastic wave back. \n\n[b][color=#ff0000]436[/color][/b] \"Sven why did you move, you made me fall over!\" Kyaw complained, apparently none the wiser. \"UH ... the seat was really cold so I had to move.\" he hastily fibbed. \"Really?\" Kyaw said rubbing his paw where Sven had just been. \"That's strange. Feels nice and warm to me.\" Kyaw said genuinely puzzled. Sven had to raise an eyebrow of skepticism. Was Kyaw really that naive? Smart in some ways but really dumb in others. Whatever, as long as it worked. \"Huh, that's strange, guess it's a mystery. Maybe it was a draft, hehe\" he said. That was dumb, what do you want to totally give yourself away. Why are you so insufferably awkward! Sven wanted to slap himself sometimes.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]437[/color][/b] Kyaw started to move over to Sven again, crawling on all fours. \"Come on Sven let's go back to the way we were, I was really feeling comfy\". Sven felt that weird little tingle again as he saw Kyaw walking on all fours with his little bunny tail pointing up. Okay this was too much for Sven.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]438[/color][/b] He shot up out of his seat and stood up at the far window. \"We're almost at the station anyway, we should get ready to get off\" he hastily said as he watched the approaching station, not daring to look at Kyaw and give himself away. He was flustered, he was afraid to let whatever THAT was happen again. Surely whatever he'd done was a sin. Not because Kyaw was a boy, but because he'd always been told to keep his hands to himself as a good little christian boy. It would have been just as bad, if not worse, if he'd felt up a girl like that. He couldn't even admit how much he liked how it felt. He was suppose to only have pure and loving thoughts. He was suppose to save himself for his future wife, and Kyaw MOST DEFINITELY could not be his future wife!\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]439[/color][/b] \"Oh ... uh ... yeah ... I guess so\" Kyaw said suddenly feeling insecure himself. Did he do something wrong? Did Sven not like him ... like that? Whatever that meant. Did he not want to hold him and touch him ... cause ... Kyaw was beginning to realize he sure wanted him too, for whatever reason. He'd been taught about consent, that everyone's body was their own, but he'd not been taught to feel ashamed about sharing affection with a willing companion. He was used to hugs whenever he wanted, from his mother and auntie and his cousins. He was very rarely told no, and even when he was told no it was usually because they were busy with something at the moment, and they'd give him a hug as soon as they could. He hugged his girlfriends all the time and it was never cause for discomfort. But Kyaw could tell Sven was uncomfortable and that made him feel bad. Maybe he'd been a little too forward. But he still wanted to be held.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]440[/color][/b] Finally the cabin car came to an abrupt halt as it reached the starting point, the very place where they'd begun their journey. \"Come on, let's go\" Sven said still not looking at Kyaw. He sounded, disheartened, and confused, and Kyaw couldn't figure out why.\n\n[b][color=#ff0000]441[/color][/b] Sven slid open the door and Sven and Kyaw stepped out onto the station.\n\n[center][color=#00bf00]*[b]21[/b]*[/color][/center]\n[b][color=#00bf00]442[/color][/b] Sven looked over the fence and seemed to be contemplating something, though Kyaw knew not what. Why was Sven being so quiet all of a sudden, especially after having finally embracing him so unreservedly. Kyaw walked up behind and put his paw on top of Sven's. Sven retracted and looked at Kyaw. They didn't speak for a moment but it was Sven who broke the silence first.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]443[/color][/b] \"Kyaw ...\" he began as if he was about to say something. \"Yes?\" Kyaw responded tentatively. \"We - ... we should get moving, my brother is going to be heading back this way as soon as he figures out we weren't on that cabin. Come on!\". \"Right...\" Kyaw said a little disappointed. Surely there was something else Sven had meant to say.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]444[/color][/b] The boys left the station and began to make their way through the snow beneath the mountain. They were both quiet as they took in the sights. There was a bittersweetness to the day coming to an end and the orange light fading in the sky. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]445[/color][/b] Presently they were passing the frozen lake they'd passed many hours before on their way to the Rec Center. Although it had been empty before, it now had a few kits and cubs skating about on the ice. There was the sound of laughter and kids and in general the place felt busier and more occupied, and that's because, it was. Family's had finally started to pour in in earnest anticipation of the Yule Log Celebration. Soon darkness would envelop this vast wintery wonderland and then the real celebration would begin. The Isle was beautiful lit up by little lanterns placed along it's perimeter, placed by the children. In the quickly dimming light they began to glow with a kind of magic. Something holy and ancient and unnamable. Like spirits floating on the ice, both warm and welcoming and yet giving the land a sense austere loneliness.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]446[/color][/b] Sven watched as the children skated. His eyes were drawn a pretty girl here or there, although he knew better than to stare too long at any one of them. Still his attention was clearly towards the lake. Perhaps he felt disconnected from the other children in some way and wanted to go out there and make friends himself, but was simply too shy to do so.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]447[/color][/b] Kyaw sensing Sven's forlorning jumped in, \"Do you ... wanna go skating with me later?\" Kyaw offered. Sven nodded his head quietly. \"Alright, then that's what we'll do. But hey Sven...\" Kyaw continued.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]448[/color][/b] \"Uh ... yeah?\" Sven replied. \"Where are we going now?\" Kyaw said as he stopped where he was standing. Sven shrugged. \"I don't know. We took so long, I'm probably gonna be grounded now. I don't know what to do.\" Sven confessed. \"Well if you are gonna be grounded anyway, why don't we go do the thing that we set out to do in the first place. You still have the keys.\" Kyaw reminded Sven.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]449[/color][/b] This seemed to wake Sven up a bit. \"Oh yeah. You're right! We could actually take the sled out of the car now. Do you still wanna Kyaw?\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]450[/color][/b] \"Are you kidding me! That's what I've been waiting for this whole time!\" Kyaw said enthusiastically. \"Alright. Awesome. Let's go mate!\" Sven said as he started hopping off. Kyaw did not move from his spot though. \"Hey what gives Kyaw. Aren't we going?\" Sven asked. \"And are we still gonna go hide in the woods, or can we go down the bunny slopes.\" Kyaw said with his paws folded. Sven just smiled. Kyaw was so much like a girl something.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]451[/color][/b] Sven walked over and gave his friend a warm pat on the shoulder. \"Nah mate, I've learned my lesson. I've got nothing to be ashamed of being your friend. There is nothing wrong with me simply being your friend.\" and with that Sven gave a little sincere smile. This much Sven had finally worked out for himself. Kyaw was his friend, and as long as there were no inappropriate thoughts or feelings, there was nothing unchristian about being Kyaw's friend. In fact, it was very unchristian of everyone else to treat him so poorly. Hate would not bring furs to the light, only love. After all, Yah-Hasha was love, was he not?\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]452[/color][/b] With that both boys began to enthusiastically break into a gallop, and then a run, and then a giggle fit. Sven had found peace in his feelings at last. He liked Kyaw. So what if he was different. Life was lighter and more fun when he was around, and liking someone was nothing to be ashamed of. It's not like he [i]like liked[/i] him or anything. And maybe others wouldn't understand Sven's feelings, but that was alright. And anyway, what would strangers care if a roo boy happened to hang out with a rabbit boy. No one would think it strange. Sven didn't know most of these kids, nor did they know him, so it wouldn't matter to them seeing a roo and a bun sleighing down the slopes together. After all, Sven wouldn't be doing anything wrong. Nothing wrong with sledding ... Sven would just have to keep the fact that he copped a feel with another boy between him and God. From now on he was on the straight and narrow. And hey, maybe by showing Kyaw some wholesome christian love, he could bring him to their christ.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]453[/color][/b] Sven started to feel very hopeful for the future. Kyaw really could be his friend. He didn't have to live in fear of [i]everything[/i]. It was okay to feel [i]something[/i]. It felt nice. He hadn't felt free to feel. Not even towards girls. Everything felt guilty and wrong. Every thought and desire suspect. But with Kyaw he didn't feel that way now. He could enjoy his company and say so without it being awkward and wrong. And right now the thing he wanted most was to go down those bunny slopes with his bunny friend. They'd gone through trials and tribulations together, but the heavens had finally seen fit to make the planets align and give them this opportunity to just be kids.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]454[/color][/b] At last they took a little breather as they saw their village emerge from the wintery fog. Kyaw came up and grabbed Sven by the paw while Sven was still panting. Sven decided not to flinch this time. Instead he said, \"You were really great back there by the way. I'm sorry I got angry at you. This was your idea and it worked in the end! Come on, we're almost there!\" and with that Sven broke paws with Kyaw and began galloping ahead. He only turned around to signal for Kyaw to follow, which after a moment of admiring his handsome and charming protector, he did.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]455[/color][/b] At last the boys started to come up behind the hotel, making their way through the village. Sven was cautious now, checking around every corner and carefully looking around at his surroundings and signaling Kyaw to come in closer.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]456[/color][/b] \"What's wrong Sven?\" Kyaw asked innocently. \"I'm trying not to bump into my parents. If they catch us all bets will be off.\" Sven said. \"Hmph. Well ... I suppose you have a point there. But you know-\" Kyaw began. Sven turned around, \"don't start\" he said irritably. They were already beginning to know exactly what the other was about to say. In any case there is no doubt he'd be instantly grounded the moment he was caught, so there was nothing for it but to be careful.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]457[/color][/b] At last the boys made their way around the Snowsvald Inn. Sven peaked around the corner. The car was still sitting there in the snow. It was practically buried in snow by this point. It had apparently been untouched since this morning. Sven's parents were no where in sight. The lot though had changed. There were many many more cars now then there'd been in the morning. Sven gulped.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]458[/color][/b] \"Uh, hey Kyaw.\" Sven said. \"Yes my love?\" Kyaw chirped. \"Don't call me that.\" he frowned. Kyaw looked a little hurt for a moment. \"Look never mind that for now. Listen. Could you just ... stay right here ... while I go get the sleigh?\" Sven asked as politely and non-confrontationally as possible.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]459[/color][/b] \"Why? -_-;\" Kyaw said in a low and irritable tone. \"I don't know. I've just got a bad feeling. Just to be safe, could you just stay here and not move from this spot? Please?\" Sven begged. Kyaw folded his arms. \"That's what started this whole nonsense this morning!\" Kyaw protested. \"Yeah but that was different. It's literally just a few feet away. You can look and take a peek if you want, just make sure you are out of sight. Please? For me?\" Sven said as held both of Kyaw's paws in his mittens and gave him a little kiss on the forehead. \"It'll only take a few seconds promise.\" Sven said. Kyaw couldn't help but blush and feel all buttered up. \"Oh alright. But this better be quick this time!\". \"It will!\" Sven reassured. 'As long as I don't get caught' he thought to himself. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]460[/color][/b] With that he hopped off towards the car. Kyaw got down on his paws and knees and looked to see where Sven was. Sven looked around nervously for a few moments, making sure his parents were no where in sight. He then began fiddling with the keys trying to get the trunk open. He was having a little bit of trouble. He was only six after all, and also the lock was a bit frozen. He finally managed to jiggle the keys just right to get the mechanism to turn, and the door swung open. And there is was! The beautiful red sleigh just sitting there innocently, patiently waiting for the love and attention it longed for ... not unlike Kyaw.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]461[/color][/b] It was then that Sven suddenly shut the trunk closed!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]462[/color][/b] \"Hey Sveny! What you up to?\" Kyaw heard a voice from the parking lot. He strained to see who it was but they were hidden behind the cars from Kyaw's point of view.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]463[/color][/b] Then Kyaw heard another voice. \"Hey man! Long time no see cousin!\". Kyaw began to get nervous. The loud voices scared him, and they seemed to be coming from everywhere.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]464[/color][/b] \"Hey brodder! How's it shaking? Where you at cat?\" came yet a third voice.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]465[/color][/b] \"Oh hey guys! When did y'all get here?\" Kyaw heard Sven respond. 'No. Not now. Tell them to buzz off', Kyaw thought to himself. This was his special time! They had all summer to play with Sven. Why'd they have to be right here right now?!?!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]466[/color][/b] \"We just arrived. Our families insisted on bringing us to this silly Yule Log burning. laaaammmmeeee! Wooooah, burning wood ... big whoop. Anyway, when did you get here, Svy?\" Kyaw heard the first voice again. Kyaw recognized it. It was Torvald The Wolf Cub. The same Torvald that used to laugh and tease and torment him all through Kindergarten. Who called him a sissy when the teacher wasn't listening, and sometimes even when she was! Kyaw tensed up. It was partly fear and partly anger that was boiling up inside. And something new. A new emotion ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]467[/color][/b] Torvald stepped into view and walked up to Sven all casual like. Like a well practiced routine they gave one of their classic handshakes. Was ... was Sven smiling?! 'Why that two-faced', thought Kyaw irritably. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]468[/color][/b] \"My parents took me and my brothers here this morning. We've been hear pretty much since sunrise.\" Sven said in a surprisingly jovial tone, like he was just having a casual chat. Wasn't this a bad turn of events? Shouldn't he be concerned about them ruining their fun?! Sven is probably gonna chat 'em up for a minute, then he's gonna come up with a clever excuse to lose them. Then they'll abscond to go sledding. Surely that was what the plan was. Sven was just playing the part! Right. Right?! Kyaw thought with growing frustration.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]469[/color][/b] Next a young fawn came into view. \"Helmer! Hey man, how is that sprain? We've missed you so much on the field!\" Sven shouted excitedly. \"Aw man, I healed up a while ago cuz\". Then something happened which really got our dear little rabbit boy in a tizzy. Sven went and hugged Helmer! And not just some casual hug. A real sincere hug, cause they hadn't seen each other in a while and Sven had been worried for his friend. Then that new feeling started to really flair up. Kyaw's jealousy glowered and gave him a low but steady burning in his soul.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]470[/color][/b] \"Oh brother! You two are always a bunch of mush-bunnies! Get a room!\" came the third voice as an young ocelot cub came into view. \"Yeah seriously, you guys are a bunch of marshmallows. But what can you expect from a bunch of prey anthros, eh Cadence.\" said Torvald. \"Yulp. Predators for life.\" Cadence said as the two bummed fists. Sven finished hugging Helmer finishing up by giving him a good slap on the shoulder. Then he walked over to Cadence. \"Hey Cadence, how's it hanging?\" Sven said and gave the ocelot a little fist bump. Not only was Cadence not comfortable with close contact but his claws had been known to hurt others so he preferred to keep his paws to himself.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]471[/color][/b] \"Anyway, where you been Sven\" Torvald began. \"We haven't seen you since Thanksgiving Vacation\". Sven couldn't tell them the truth of you'd he'd been hanging out with all December so he just shrugged. \"Well if you'd been hanging out with us you would have known Helmer recovered and returned to school the following Monday. But you wouldn't know that since you never came round. Seriously bro, where you been?\" Torvald complained.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]472[/color][/b] 'He's been with me!' Kyaw wanted to spring out and announce, but his better judgement prevented him from moving. For the moment he was hidden. The darkening sky provided additional cover.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]473[/color][/b] \"Aw you know. Games don't start up 'til the spring. There is too much snow this year.\" Sven offered.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]474[/color][/b] \"Yeah shame about that\" Cadence said dejectedly as he fitfully kicked a little snow with his footpaw as if he were angry at it. \"Yeah that's true. But you still could come hang with us once and a while. We've all been hanging out together since the snowstorms began. I know we haven't been able to play and all, but you know, you still could hanged with us.\" Torvald said irritably. A tiny hint of hurt was in his voice though he was trying his best to keep it to a minimum.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]475[/color][/b] \"Yeah - I know - but it's just - I don't really - uh - It's just -\" Sven began to mumble. He wanted to say he never knew what to talk about when they weren't playing and talking about baseball, but he sensed it wasn't a very nice thing to say openly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]476[/color][/b] \"God damn it Sveny, spit it out!\" Torvald burst out gruffly. \"It's nothing. You're right. Sorry.\" Sven tried to brush it off awkwardly. \"You don't got to apologize - ain't no one holding a gun to your head - but - you know - \" Torvald began, \"It's good to have the gang together again. That's all\". That was Torvald for, he missed Sven. Sven smiled and nodded. He knew what Torvald was trying to say without saying it.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]477[/color][/b] \"The Valley Kits reunion!\" Helmer said as he smushed everyone together in a big group hug. \"Come on, get off Helmer!\" protested Torvald and Cadence. Sven was the only one who did not protest. He couldn't help but smile to himself. He'd never admit it, but he loved the attention and comraderie, and he'd missed it this long December month. Then Helmer pretended to be an announcer \"And who knows what havoc The Kits will cause this time?! Get ready sports fans, and Dweebs and sissies beware!\".\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]478[/color][/b] That reminded Sven. Shit. Kyaw!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]479[/color][/b] Sven broke up the group hug abruptly. \"Hey, you guys must want to get upstairs and get your stuff in order.\" he said. Torvald raised a skeptical eyebrow. \"Dude. That's what our parents are for. See?\" Torvald said pointing towards the family car. Sven could see Torvald's mom, dad and older sister unpacking the car. \"Yeah brother, we came to hang out with you!\" said Helmer unabashedly giving Sven a little punch in the shoulder.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]480[/color][/b] \"Oh ...\" Sven began. \"Geez, don't sound so excited!\" Torvald said sarcastically. \"What? You got something better to do? If I didn't know any better I'd think you were trying to get rid of us. We've only not seen in each in a whole month, but whatever!\" Torvald grumbled. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]481[/color][/b] \"hm ... something better to do ... hm\" Sven said kicking the snow distractedly as he tried to come up with an excuse. He couldn't think of one. \"Not really. I don't really got anything going on. I was just mulling about bored.\". Sven gave a furtive glance towards the corner of the hotel. 'Why that infernal kangaroo' thought Kyaw enraged. He's gonna stand me up ... AGAIN!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]482[/color][/b] \"So uh ... what do you guys wanna go do first then?\" Sven replied.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]483[/color][/b] 'Oh, hell nah!' Kyaw thought getting up unto his feet and stomping his foot. Enough was enough! He was gonna give Sven a piece of his mind, the presence of the other boys notwithstanding!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]484[/color][/b] Kyaw stormed towards the boys who were at this point just laughing and chatting and catching up. It didn't seem like Sven was in any hurry to lose the gaggle of gossipy geese he called his 'friends'.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]485[/color][/b] \"Hey, Sven! I have a carrot to pick with you!\" he said marching towards the group, arms swinging and ears fuming. Sven turned to Kyaw and looked absolutely mortified. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]486[/color][/b] \"Hey look it's the ballerina boy! Haha! Hey where's your tutu?\", shouted Torvald pointing. Then the other two boys got in front of Sven all casual like as if on command. \"It's at home.\" Kyaw said with total seriousness. \"Holy shit! He seriously just admitted he has one! Hahaha! What a gaylord.\" Cadence scoffed.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]487[/color][/b] Kyaw stopped to assess the situation. The three of them had their arms folded intimidatingly. They weren't gonna let Kyaw get anywhere near Sven. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]488[/color][/b] \"Anyway...\" Kyaw began as Cadence continued to laugh. \"Get Outta my way. I wanna talk to Sven!\" Kyaw demanded. \"Is that so sissie boi?\" said Helmer real slow like.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]489[/color][/b] \"What business you got with Sven fruitcake?\" said Cadence the Ocelot.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]490[/color][/b] Sven was in the back making paw gestures slashing across his neck and trying to shoo Kyaw away. He glared as if to say 'I told you to stay hidden! Get out of here you idiot!'.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]491[/color][/b] \"Whatever you gotta say to Sven you can say in front of us pantywaist.\" said Torvald gruffly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]492[/color][/b] \"What's up with that girly fur coat you got there?\" inquired Helmer suspiciously. \"He's trying to be like one of us ... and failing miserably. I heard o' boys that dress like him dough. All fancypants. He's got all the signs. You best not lay a finger on Sven. We don't want you getting your cooties on him!\" said Cadence scornfully.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]493[/color][/b] Kyaw folded his arms fitfully. \"I'll have you know this coat is very expensive. I'm ten times better dressed than any of you right now!\"\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]494[/color][/b] \"Oh I get it, you think you're better than us cause your family owns that tacky little voodoo shop and can afford to get you fancy clothes. Well fancy boy, get any closer and will mess up that fancy coat of yours, and then we'll see whose better dressed!\" shot back Cadence.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]495[/color][/b] Kyaw's fists began to clench into little balls of rage. He clenched them so hard they were beginning to turn pink.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]496[/color][/b] \"Oh look fellas, I think we are making the lil girly boy mad! What you gonna do lil girly boy? You gonna twirl on your tooties for us? Huh?! Hahaha!\" Torvald taunted.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]497[/color][/b] \"I'm gonna - I'm gonna ... DO THIS!\" Kyaw shouted. Then without thinking he got down on his knees and started to gather up some snow. \"Oh no fellas!\" Torvald said sarcastically as he nudged Cadence. \"This oughta be good\" Cadence said dismissively.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]498[/color][/b] Kyaw got up and tossed the snow into the air, \"UMPH!\", the snow came down in a useless flurry a foot from where Kyaw was standing ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]499[/color][/b] Sven face palmed in the back. Had he taught that boy nothing! This was so humiliating! Why wouldn't Kyaw just back down and run away!?! He knew his friends. It was only going to get worse. They got off on this sorta thing. Kyaw was so haughty and proud and mouthy for someone regarded as so low down the social hierarchy. He was a nail just ASKING to be hammered down!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]500[/color][/b] \"Pfft! HaHaHaHa! OH MY GOD! THAT WAS WORSE THAN I THOUGHT IT WAS GONNA BE!\" Torvald belted out. The other boys started belting out in laughter uncontrollably, practically doubling over in how ridiculous Kyaw looked. All except Sven who just stood there looking embaressed himself. \"I'd say you throw like a girl, but I know grandma's who can throw better than that!\" Cadence said scornfully.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]501[/color][/b] Kyaw was mortified. Totally and utterly humiliated. His whole face started to turn a frightful pink from the embarrassment. He felt strange and other and different in all the worse possible senses, and despite his efforts, for once, to hold back some tears, his face started to leak.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]502[/color][/b] \"Awwww! The pwecious lil wabbit is cwying! Awwww! Poor baby wabbit! HaHaHa!\" Torvald said mockingly.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]503[/color][/b] \"C-come on guys ... that's enough, leave him alone.\" Sven said meekly in the back. No one even seemed to hear him. He felt powerless in the situation.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]504[/color][/b] \"Hey let's show him how it's done.\" Cadence said slyly looking towards Torvald. \"Oh yeah. That's a good idea.\" Torvald said with a devilish grin. And with that the three boys started gathering up snow balls to hurl at Kyaw. \"We could use the target practice.\" Helmer observed gathering up some of his own.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]505[/color][/b] With that the boys got up with a couple of snowballs each, and started pelting Kyaw over and over. \"Get lost ballerina boy! Sven doesn't care what you gotta say and neither do we!\" Torvald spat. \"Yeah! Git!\" added Cadence. \"Go cry to your mama boy you mama's boy!\" mocked Helmer.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]506[/color][/b] The boys threw as hard as they could, without mercy, and with gleeful spite. More importantly, a sense of morally justified spite. Kyaw had come to harass them. They felt they were protecting Sven. They felt they were teaching Kyaw a lesson. But most of all they felt they had no reason to consider Kyaw's feelings. He was an anomaly that needed to either stop being the way he was, or leave them alone!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]507[/color][/b] The snowballs stung a bit, though his thick winter coat provided some protection, but it was more the emotional pain that really stung. His tears were uncontrollable now. He should have run away, but he just stood there and took it. Like some sort of humiliation ritual. Like he was looking for pity ... from somefur. This did not make the boys feel sorry for him though! No, it just made them throw even harder and hate him all the more, because he had violated the one most important boy rule: Never beg for mercy!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]508[/color][/b] \"Guys stop\" Sven said meekly, but they continued. Then Sven became mad. \"GUYS I SAID STOP!\" Sven shouted, pulling Torvald's arm causing him to drop his snowballs. \"Hey! What gives Sven?!\" Torvald said bewildered.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]509[/color][/b] \"Look at him! He's a mess!\" Sven pointed towards Kyaw who was sobbing. He looked cold and he was shaking and his eyes were red. \"He's no threat to you.\" Sven scolded. The boys momentarily felt a tinge of guilt, but they refused to acknowledge the boy who was, at the end of the day, not really different than them. Just a boy their age they didn't know or understand very well, but just an ordinary boy at the end of the day. Perhaps they wouldn't be so different if they weren't always trying so hard to be so big mean and very grown up.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]510[/color][/b] \"Yeah but he won't fuck off...\" Torvald defended sourly. He didn't like being scolded. He probably knew deep down he was a nasty and mean spirited scamp, but he hated it to be pointed out. It was bad enough in the presence of adults, but it was worse in front of another kid, especially one he considered his best friend.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]511[/color][/b] \" ... Let me handle this ...\" Sven finally said sternly, and walked in front of the other boys. Kyaw dared to look up towards Sven. That look on his face ... it frightened Kyaw, it was so disturbing to see that loving adorable face ... contort into a look of malice. It was as if Sven was suddenly a different furson, a furson Kyaw did not recognize. Where, or where, is my sweet and wonderful Sven? Are you still in there Sven?\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]512[/color][/b] \"YOU STILL GOT SOMETHIN' TO SAY TO ME?!\" Sven shouted with a face full of genuine rage. Had Kyaw fucked up? Was Sven mad he'd not stayed hidden like he'd instructed him? \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]513[/color][/b] The harsh tone pierced through Kyaw's heart like a javelin. Why? Why was Sven treating him this way? Why? Why?\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]514[/color][/b] Shivering and unable to speak all Kyaw did in the end was shake his head no. He didn't dare say anything now. All his boldness was gone. All his haughty arrogance humbled. Sven had made every high thing low.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]515[/color][/b] \"Good!\" Sven said spitting into the snow and rubbing it into the ground with his foot. \"NOW GIT!\" Sven said pointing out into the night, banishing him.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]516[/color][/b] Kyaw couldn't believe what he was hearing. His lips gibbered something. \"S-s-sven - I don't - understand -\". Kyaw seemed unable to move. As if he was frozen in place by shock. This was getting nowhere.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]517[/color][/b] Sven bent down and started meticulously making a snowball, staring right into Kyaw's eyes the whole time. The look was confusing to Kyaw. It was not friendly, it was not hateful, but it was very serious. \"... get - out - of - here - now.\" Sven said in a low tone. Kyaw for the life of him couldn't make himself leave, even though he knew EXACTLY what was coming. Like a deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming freight train!\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]518[/color][/b] Sven raised his fist with the snowball, ready to put down what he'd created. The threat was clear and eminent, and yet Kyaw could not leave Sven's side even now. He couldn't raise his paws against him. He could not bring himself to leave. Only an act of incredibly cruelty from the one he so deeply adored would send him on his way. And so ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]519[/color][/b] \"GET OUT OF HERE YOU STUPID RABBIT!\" Sven shouted, but Kyaw refused to budge even while he shivered in fear. \"S-sven I can't. I can't leave y-\"\n\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]520[/color][/b] Sven did not hesitate. He chucked that snowball like he was pitching a baseball ... straight into Kyaw's face ... at a hundred miles per hour ... and it hit him with so much force he fell to the ground with a thud. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]521[/color][/b] \"PAM! RIGHT IN THE KISSER!\" Torvald exclaimed excitedly, the raw violence thrilling something deep in his canine nature.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]522[/color][/b] Sven moved towards Kyaw and covered his mouth. He could see that Kyaw's nose was bleeding from the impact.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]523[/color][/b] Kyaw struggled to lift his head towards Sven . His body was curled up pathetically. He was crying but he would not look away from Sven. 'How could you do that to me', his eyes said.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]524[/color][/b] \"Hey guys! He's bleeding! He might snitch on us!\" Helmer observed. Kyaw's nose dripped deep blood red into the snow as he stared forelorned into the face of the boy he'd loved so deeply and fully for almost two years all for it to end like this.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]525[/color][/b] \"He won't ... will ya Kyaw.\" Sven said sternly. That bunny just kept staring at him with those heartbroken eyes. Finally in spite of himself he shook his head gently no.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]526[/color][/b] Kyaw couldn't process it. He wanted some sign, some indication there'd been a mistake. A terrible terrible mistake. Was this it? Was ... Sven breaking up with him? Was he done with him for good?\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]527[/color][/b] Sven's face was strange to him now. All the emotion was gone. It was cold and empty. Is this ... what being a boy is? Being ... an unfeeling monster? Kyaw was horrified, but even now he found himself unable to leave the boys side.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]528[/color][/b] Sven walked up a little closer to Kyaw and Kyaw shuddered in fear as he tried to pull away instinctively. He felt like an injured rabbit, unable to defend himself only delaying the inevitable bite of death.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]529[/color][/b] Sven stopped not but a foot away from Kyaw and bent down on one knee. \"Kyaw ... please ... [i]juuuust go[/i].\" Sven said quietly. Then Sven got up and the look on his face was cold and heartless as he stood over Kyaw. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]530[/color][/b] \"I SAID GIT!\" Sven shouted and started kicking snow onto Kyaw over and over and over again, until Kyaw was practically covered under a layer of snow.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]531[/color][/b] \"Oh no, the poor wittle wabbit died! It's time to ... bury the wabbit!\" Torvald mocked. Then the three boys began to chant over and over again \"bury the wabbit, bury the wabbit\".\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]532[/color][/b] \"Why are you doing this to me?\" Kyaw asked Sven pathetically. Sven paused and stopped kicking for a moment. \"Because I want you to leave.\" Sven said. Kyaw's eyes began to fill with tears until he couldn't see anymore, and then he said \"If that's what you want ... fine then I will!\".\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]533[/color][/b] With that Kyaw pathetically got himself up and limped about like an injured animal. He fell over once and the boys just laughed at his expense. He was so disorganized in thought that he also bonked his head on a lamppost and they heckled him some more. All the while Sven looked on and would not turn his gaze from the benighted rabbit.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]533[/color][/b] \"Come on Svy. Forget about him. Let's go play already.\" Torvald shouted cheerfully. Sven did not turn around. Sven took a deep breath. \"Yeah alright! I'll show you guys around.\" he shouted back evenly, but his gaze did not turn from the boy stumbling alone and hurt. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]534[/color][/b] The boys went on ahead, and Sven turned to go, but Sven continued looking back every so often to try and see where Kyaw was headed ... but suddenly he was gone ... the darkness had taken him. Despite the many bright colorful lights, the black sky felt deeply oppressive. Sven turned back to his friends and galloped away to catch up with them ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]535[/color][/b] Kyaw wandered aimlessly, his body and spirit broken. He looked up to the stars to guide him, to shine some light upon his benighted sole. A sign, a sigil, that all was not lost, that this was not the end. But the heavens were silent ... infinitely black ... cold ... and indifferent.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]536[/color][/b] The snow began to fall again. Kyaw sniffled and continued to wipe his bloody nose, tears and snot running down his face. \n\n[b][color=#00bf00]537[/color][/b] Kyaw walked and walked, over the little lighted bridge over the frozen lake. He saw the children skating and laughing and playing. He didn't want to be around other children right now. He didn't want to be around anyone anymore.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]538[/color][/b] He continued to wander past the villages and the lights and the happy furs, until he found himself deep in the dark woods. Little melting streams could be heard trickling in the dark.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]539[/color][/b] It was so very very cold and Kyaw began to shiver something fierce, but he carried on. Who cares. Maybe he deserved to freeze to death, he thought.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]540[/color][/b] It was then that a dark and ominous spirit came over him. The winds blew like an empty whistle. Something ancient. Something indifferent. Something deeply devoid of life or hope or warmth. Kyaw contemplated the many little rabbit kits that must have frozen to death in cold and pitiless winter storms. Both animorphic rabbits, and even anthro children many millennia ago. Children who got sick and died, despite all the love and warmth their desperate parents tried to provide. The woods were haunted, with the ghosts of lost children, to wander looking for their parents until perpetuity.\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]541[/color][/b] The world was suppose to be filled with benevolent spirits who were meant to guide them, their silhouettes written in the stars, but where had they all gone? Kyaw did not sense their presence that night. Instead when Kyaw looked up, he felt a God more ancient than the rest. The God of nothingness. The God of Godlessness. The Great Gaping Void that came before all the Gods. The God ... of Atheism. He thought of the great empty distances across the heavens between the tiny havens of light that were the stars, and he shuddered, for Kyaw got just a [i]tiny[/i] glimpse of how truly lonely and empty existence could be ... and how truly lonely ... he could feel ...\n\n[b][color=#00bf00]542[/color][/b] ... and so began ... \n[center]...the longest night of year ...[/center]\n[center][b][i][color=#ff0000]The End?[/color][/i][/b][/center]",
"writing_bbcode_parsed": "The Mischievous Mistletoe
Pt. IV
Hide & Seek
*14*
1 Kyaw in fact did have a plan, or at least, he had a few cards up his sleeve he had in mind that might allow them to give Sigmund the slip.
2 Although the Bits had only been there for three days, Kyaw and his cousins were sure to fully explore the grounds and all it's nooks and crannies. There was in fact an elaborate system of caves and tunnels beneath the town and Kyaw had spent some time with Skipsy exploring them not but the other day.
3 First things first though, they needed to be able to see Sigmund without Sigmund seeing them.
4 Kyaw climbed on top of the compost bin in the corner of the garden, although it was completely covered in snow and he didn't know it was a compost bin. Still Kyaw knew that it was firm and that was all that mattered.
5 "What are you doing?!" Sven whispered nervously. "Scouting" is all the rabbit said, shielding his eyes with his palm from the glaring sun and scanning the area.
6 "He's going to see you!" Sven protested. "Not if I see him first" Kyaw dismissed. Kyaw put his foot onto the fence to lift himself up to get a better view. "Should you be doing that?" Sven fussed. "Shush!" was all the rabbit said in return. "Don't shush me!", Sven said crossly, but now was not a good time to start a squabble so Kyaw ignored him.
7 Sven stood there nervously staring at the backdoor afraid that the owners might come out at any moment and start complaining and give away their position.
8 "Sugar!" Kyaw said climbing down hastily. "What?!" Sven said. "I saw him. He's snooping around the houses looking for us". Great. "Did he see you?!" Sven asked. "No." Kyaw said flatly, "He was looking the other way checking behind the other house." Kyaw paused, his nose and tail twitching as he considered their options.
9 "We've got to make a run for it! Back to the Rec Center" Kyaw said grabbing his friends paw. "WHAT!?" Sven blurted out.
10 Kyaw headed over to the gate and was about to unfasten to lock, when Sven grabbed Kyaw by the shoulders and attempted to pull him back. "Huh?" Kyaw said looking at his friend.
11 "There you are!" Kyaw heard Sigmund blurt out and turning around he saw Sigmund start into a gallop towards the gate!
12 It took a moment for Kyaw to get over his shock. "We're trapped!" Sven said. That knocked Kyaw out of it. "No we aren't" he said, grabbing Sven's paw to the backdoor and knocking on it as hard as he could. Sven barely had any time to be shocked by this action cause Kyaw then jumping up onto the Compost bin again and pulling him up. "We gotta climb!" is all he said.
13 At that moment Sigmund was already rumbling the gate desperately trying to get it open. He was prepared to bust it if he had to.
14 Kyaw put his footpaw on the gate and glomped onto the roof. Sven wouldn't have dared to climb on someone's roof under normal circumstances, but right now he was too desperate to escape to protest. Kyaw started helping Sven up onto the roof just as Sigmund lost his patience and burst open the gate by sheer force.
15 Sigmund wasted no time trudging towards the boys and nearly grabbed Sven by the foot paw just before he got completely up onto the roof. The boys started shimmying across the roof to put distance between them and Sigmund.
16 Just then the owner of the house, an Old and very large Beaver, burst out the backdoor. He'd heard the knock, the rumbling of his gate and some noises on his roof.
17 The Old Beaver saw Sigmund attempting to scramble up onto his Compost bin, and he was not happy about it, let me tell you! "What in tarnation are you doin' in my garden!?", the boys heard the Old Beaver shout.
18 "GET DOWN!", The Old Beaver shouted, but Sigmund just ignored him and stood up onto the compost bin and put his footpaw onto the fence to get onto the roof. He smiled a cocky grin. The boys paused staring at their aggressive pursuer. "Now what?" Sven whispered. Kyaw looked down and saw it was a long drop to the dirt road below. Then he looked back at Sven. "We gonna have to climb over the roof. Get ready." Kyaw whispered.
19 Just then the Old Beaver grabbed Sigmund by his hoody. "HEY! Get off me you old coot! I don't know you from Adam!" Sigmund shouted struggling to get free.
20 "Quick climb the roof!" Kyaw commanded as he began to scale the small pointed roof. How do I get myself into these situations Sven wondered, but dutifully started to make his way up the roof.
21 "Shit! they're getting away. LET GO!" Sigmund said as he struggled. Finally he decided to jump off the compost bin releasing himself in the process and heading towards the gate. "Hey, young man, who are you?! What's this all about!?". "None of your business ... on both counts!" Sigmund fired back rudely as he rushed to the other side.
22 "We gotta slide down" Kyaw said grabbing Sven's paw. "Wha-" was all Sven managed to get out as Kyaw pulled him down. They slide down the roof and landed on a large and soft pile of snow. Just then Sigmund peaked out from the gate. "Ha! Nice try!" he mocked. 'Crap! How the heck were they going to shake him?', Sven thought. His brother was older and faster than them, despite his rotund disposition.
23 "Run!" Sven said as he tried to pull him and Kyaw through the heavy two-and-a-half foot deep layer of snow. Sigmund was already climbing up onto the snow bank, and was about to spring towards them. "Jump!" Kyaw said, and with that both of them prepared to jump out of the snow bank. Sigmund jumped and a moment later so did Kyaw and Sven. They managed to leap frog themselves out of the snow bank onto a shoveled dirt path. "Quick, follow me!" Kyaw said as he grabbed Sven's paw and ran around the house as quick as a rabbit scuttling away for it's life ... because he was!
24 Rather than trudge slowly through the high snow Sigmund prepared another jump and then stumbled onto the dirt path. Getting himself up he rounded the corner of the house he'd seen them run behind, but when he got there all he saw was a fence looking out onto nothing ... well not nothing but not Kyaw and Sven. He hopped over to the fence to get a better look and surveyed the area. "Where the fuck did they go?"
25 Little did Sigmund know they were right under his nose! Kyaw and Sven had climbed down the fence and were now pressed up against a little nook just under the fence, trying their damnedest to stifle their uneven breathing. Once again Sven found himself pressed against the soft fur of the bunny boy which he could feel even under his thick clothes, and once again despite it slightly distracting Sven he knew he had to stay focused on the present situation. Kyaw for his part was holding onto Sven's paw for dear life to calm his nerves. He may have had plans of escape but that didn't mean he wasn't still terrified of getting caught off guard by Sigmund. He still remembered what it was like getting chased down and pinned to that fence the first time he'd encountered him.
26 A minute went by that felt like an hour, but eventually Sigmund skulked off trying to figure out where they might have gone.
27 "Listen Sven. We've got to - run back into - the Rec Center, it's our only chance. I know - a secret passage" Kyaw said between labored breaths. Sven raised a skeptical eyebrow. "I'm serious. It's no fib, come on". With that the boys made a run for it towards the stairs they'd walked up when they had approached the Rec Center for the first time.
28 Just then Sigmund turned around to spot them running. "What the hell?!" he said as he ran and gripped the fence rails. He wasn't prepared to jump down though, onto the dirt path. He'd have to go the long way around. "He saw us!" Sven said. "Just keep running" Kyaw said as they galloped up the stairs.
29 Both boys were becoming hopelessly exhausted and sooner or later Sigmund was definitely gonna catch 'em at this rate. Sven's mind was full of panic. Kyaw on the other hand wasn't totally panicked ... yet. But that's because he knew a surefire way to lose Sigmund for a little bit that would give them a breather to get their bearings back. Technically they'd still be trapped but at least they could rest.
30 The boys were practically falling over their own footpaws as they tripped themselves into the door of the Rec Center, using it to brace themselves and regain their balance, but there was no time to relax, Sigmund had just rounded the corner and was charging towards them at top speed!
31 "You've got nowhere to run pipsqueaks!" Sigmund taunted as he stopped at the big steps looming over them threateningly. The boys had paused to catch their breath and assess the situation.
32 Kyaw knew they somehow had to get back to the wine cellar room which was on the opposite end of the Rec Center somehow with enough time to escape Sigmund's grasp and have time to hide. It wouldn't do to simply go through the front doors and make a run for it. Some misdirection was in order!
33 Kyaw began to whisper some instructions into Sven's ear, "We've gotta meet up in the wine cellar, here's what we're gonna do"
34 Sigmund didn't like seeing the way Kyaw was pressed right up against Sven all intimately. "HEY! This ain't no time for whispering sweet nothing's" Sigmund said as he hopped down from the stairs. As far as he was concerned his quarry was cornered.
35 Rather than quiver in fear though the boys began to take action. Kyaw ran behind the building while Sven ran to the snow bank and grabbed some snow. Sigmund catching on began to lunge towards Sven only to get pelted by snowballs. Sigmund blocked his face. "Knock that off pissant!" he shouted angerly. "Come and get me jerkoff!" Sven said as he also rounded the corner of the Rec Center.
36 Sigmund rounded the corner as fast as his lard ass could, but when he got there he saw no one. He then noticed the double doors on the other side of the building ... but before he could grab the handle to open it he got pelted by another snowball. "hehe" he heard. It was Sven. He turned around to see a giddy look on Sven's face. Sven had a little moment of joy. It wasn't like him to laugh cheerfully like that and he was a little surprised himself. When his mean older half-brother gave him that stare though all that joy left him in an instant. He gulped.
37 "I'm getting those fucking keys you little asshole even if I gotta pry them from your cold dead fingers!" he said as he leaped towards Sven.
38 This was, of course, all part of the plan. Sven had served as the distraction and misdirection while Kyaw had gone through the side doors and had already made his way down the basketball court at top speed. He was already waiting in the wine cellar, waiting for Sven to join him. That didn't change the fact that this still put Sven primarily in harms way. Just as an extra precaution though, Sven had already given the keys to Kyaw so even if Sigmund managed to catch him he'd find nothing. All Sven had to do now was gain a lead on his brother.
39 Sven had a good plan for how to do that himself though. He hopped around the deep snow around another house, and Sigmund foolishly attempted to follow him. His brother could leap further but Sven was lighter and was able to hop quicker. Still every time Sigmund jumped Sven's heart would freeze. His older brother was determined to get his paws on him and was clearly mad about the snowballs.
40 "Imma ram this snow down your throat punk!" he scolded.
41 Sven had to be sure not to get too far ahead of Sigmund, or else he might encourage him to go another way. Timing was everything. He needed Sigmund to follow him so he knew exactly where he was, but not so close that he would know what Kyaw and Sven were planning. Kyaw had been right. The best strategy was to let Sigmund chase them.
42 Finally Sven found himself within a bounds distance of the path. On a whim he turned around back at his brother still sunk deep into the snow with his large weight and waved. "Toodle-loo!" he said. 'How fucking gay', thought Sigmund. With that Sven made an especially big leap on to the dirt and began to run. "HEY! HEEEEY!" Sigmund bellowed as his little brother was making a hasty get away.
43 He'd been so focused on getting revenge on his little brother that it hadn't even crossed his mind yet that Kyaw was no where in sight, apparently vanished. Sigmund began to prepare himself to make his biggest leap yet to get himself out of the snowbank. With one clean leap he tumbled out from the snow, and got himself up shakily.
44 Just as he got himself up, he got pelted with another snowball, and then another. He looked up, and Sven was standing atop the stairs looking down at him, just as Sigmund had done to Sven and Kyaw a few moments ago. "You are just a big bully Sig!" Sven shouted at his brother.
45 Sigmund paused to catch his breath. A moment of clarity came. "I know you are just protecting him!" Sigmund shouted.
46 "Who?" Sven said. "Don't play dumb, you know exactly who I fuckin' mean! You want me to leave him alone, huh?! Well then, give me the goddamn motherfucking keys right now!"
47 Crap. This wasn't part of the plan. Sven's plan was to get Sigmund to chase him and meet up with Kyaw first. At least he didn't know where he was.
48 "Come and get 'em then lard ass!" shouted Sven with all the meanness he could muster ... which wasn't much. He wasn't really a mean kid at heart. 'That'd get him', Sven thought.
49 "He ran off into the Rec Center didn't he?" Sigmund said with a confident smirk as he approached the double doors. Sven flinched. He'd not expected that. "He is, isn't he. I can see it on your silly pale face. Now ... give me the keys Sven." he said slowly and deliberately as he signaled with his paw for Sven to come over.
50 What should Sven do? This was bad. Involuntarily Sven started to make tentative steps towards Sigmund, seemingly compelled to comply, even though he knew he didn't even have the keys on him. But he was genuinely afraid for Kyaw and anything to stall the situation was preferable to thinking what would happen if Sigmund ran down that hall directly towards the cellar room. He'd find Kyaw waiting there expecting Sven, and he'd probably get caught and then who knows what would happen.
51 Sven had only one gambit left to play. Instead of approaching his brother or saying anything taunting he ran for the other double doors at the other corner of the Rec Center. Sigmund figured Sven was making a run to protect his friend. The best option now was to chase him down.
52 Both boys opened the double doors at the same time with both of them on opposite ends of the baseball court. Sven found himself at top a set of stairs; because of the change in elevation, the doors on his side we're higher than Sigmund's side.
53 Sven ran at top speed letting go of any fear and added a hop to add even further momentum to his jump. His feet never touched even a single step! Kangaroos are excellent jumpers though and Sven knew what he was doing. He hit the ground running heading at top speed for the doors leading to the pool room. His plan was simple. If he made it look like he was absolutely determined to get there first, Sigmund would assume that was where Kyaw was hiding and would follow him there.
54 Sigmund saw his brother dashing across the court at top speed and began running diagonally across the court to intercept his brother at the door.
55 "Hey man what the hell!" a wolf cub said as Sigmund practically ran into him while a game was going on. But Sigmund was not deterred. He had no shame. His eyes were laser focused on his wimpy little brother and he was determined to tackle him right then and there in full view of the other visitors if he had to. He did not give a fuck. He'd tell them off and tell them it was a family affair and none of their business. As far as Sigmund was concerned, he was in the right and Sven was in the wrong. He'd lied about going to get his mittens to run off and he'd swiped the keys. He was just the enforcer of his parents wishes, or at least, that's how he rationalized his aggression. This was the perfect opportunity to have an excuse to be as rough as he wanted with his little brother and still be on the right side of his parents. He hated when his mom started to see Sven's dad, how she insisted on seeing him even after Sigmund found out and protested. Forced him to keep it a secret. How when Sven was born and got a little older, Sven's father wanted to move to the Americas, supposedly to give Sven a chance at a better future. Sven was everything that went wrong in Sigmund's life. The least he could do was return the favor ...
56 Sigmund was blundering towards Sven with the force of a cargo truck! At this point there was nothing that was going to stop him except a sold brick wall ... which he was fast approaching! Still despite the speed and ferocity with which Sigmund sprinted across the court, he was still traveling along the diagonal and so Sven was poised to make it to the doors just a little sooner.
57 Sven ran into the door at full force. He was smart though. He used the door to quickly stop himself but also slammed into only one of the double doors so he could quickly open the other one and escape through it, darting at a nearly right angle towards the doors that led to the cellar.
58 In that moment Sigmund realized that Sven had most likely misdirected him and was probably headed towards the cellar room. He screeched himself to a halt and tried his damnedest to change direction. He was going to head for the other door and attempt to cut Sven off.
59 Sven wasted no time getting through the first set of doors which thankfully opened inward, allowing him to bust through them. Next he slammed his body against the next set of double doors allowing himself to quickly open the next set of doors.
60 With that Sven burst into the wine cellar and saw Kyaw standing there beside a set of trapped doors. "Sig is almost here!" Sven said breathlessly. "Jump down!" Kyaw said as he jumped down into the trapped doors. Sven followed suit and without a moment to spare Kyaw shut them back up just as Sigmund burst through the other set of doors ...
*15*
61 They could hear Sigmund bursting in, creaking the wooden floor planks above their heads. They both covered each others mouths as their hearts raced in lockstep. He was right above them and he didn't even know it! Oh how they hoped that he wouldn't notice the trapdoors just inches away from his footpaws!
62 "Where the fuck they'd go?!" they could hear Sigmund say. They heard several doors open and close. 'Had they gone back outside?', Sigmund thought. Sigmund opened the double doors and looked up and down the length of the Rec Center. Nothing. He looked through the window to the Pool Room. Nothing. He looked upwards to the ceiling. Could they have gone back up to the Arcade? But that would trap them and bring them back to square one. Could they really be that stupid? Or maybe they figured he wouldn't check there? Hm. Sigmund went to go check under the pool tables. He'd checked there last time they disappeared, but maybe that was their plan this time. Sven and Kyaw could hear Sigmund as he walked across the rooms. "Damnit!" They heard him shout as he slammed his paw on one of the pool tables in frustration. That made them jump. Still, it looked like he had no clue where they were. The boys slowly pulled their paws away from each others mouths. For the moment at least, it looked like they were in the clear. Phew! They breathed a sigh of relief.
63 Sven was the first to speak. "Now what?". Kyaw for his part still had his ears perked up listening carefully to Sigmund's every movement. A few moments passed until Kyaw finally began to relax. "I think we'll be safe. Still lets hide in the back just in case."
64 "Come on" Kyaw said grabbing Sven by the paw and gently leading him through the underground cellar. Sven for once did not fuss with his paw being held. He was more interested in his surroundings and current predicament. "What is this place?" he asked absent mindedly.
65 "A wine cellar ... I think. They keep all the best stock in the basement to keep it nice and cool in the summer. Heat can damage a good wine ya know." he explained as they passed by racks and racks of wine bottles.
66 "How do you know all this stuff? Aren't we too young to drink this kind of stuff?" Sven asked. "I've had a little bit of wine before. It tastes kind of bitter." Kyaw said nonchalantly, "besides one day one of us is going to have to take over the shop for mama and Aunt Augie, so we need to know these sorts of things. They sell all kinds of goods. Anything they can get their hands on. Anything that'll sell. That's how we make our living. Wine is just one of our specialties."
67 "Kids aren't suppose to drink wine." Sven protested. "It's only a little sip. It's really no big deal." Kyaw said. Sven was beginning to get nervous in the cold dark and spooky basement. "Are we really even suppose to be down here? Aren't these wine bottles valuable? Couldn't someone just swipe one of them?" Sven asked concerned.
68 "Well lucky for us somefur forgot to lock this place up. hehe." Kyaw said playfully. The thought crossed Kyaw's mind that he might come back here later to swipe a bottle for his mama, but then he thought about it and thought she'd probably scold him. The Bits were cut-throat but they weren't crooks. They liked to run their business affairs legitimately. That said, they probably wouldn't mind negotiating prices to buy up some of the Inn's stock if they were amenable to such an arrangement. Perhaps Kyaw would mention it to his mom.
69 "Not locked up?! Then we really shouldn't be here! Come on Kyaw" Sven began as he started to tug on Kyaw's paw in the opposite direction, "Let's get out of here before we get in trouble"
70 "We're GONNA BE in trouble if we go out there and your mean brother catches us. We are perfectly safe here. No one is going to check down here until the sun goes down. The Yule log isn't til sundown."
71 "You don't know that. Someone could come down to check here at any moment." Sven continued to protest. Kyaw had stopped moving and Sven was continuing to tug on Kyaw's paw. It was beginning to irritate Kyaw.
72 "If someone comes then we'll just hide. Easy." Kyaw said flippantly, a tiny bit of his irritation seeping through his words.
73 "Yeah, everything is easy with you, no worries, no responsibilities, no rules ..." Sven said sarcastically.
74 "Ugh! Why can't you just relax?!" Kyaw burst out in exasperation. "You care too much about following rules!" Kyaw blurted out. As much as he loved Sven, he was beginning to chafe against Kyaw's free wielding spirit.
75 "Yeah? Well you care too little about 'em. You think you're soooo special and 'the rules' don't apply to you." Sven said as he raised his paws in mock celebration.
76 "I don't think I'm special. I just think the rules are dumb and shouldn't apply to anyone. You are so worried about what everyone thinks. Well, what do you think? Huh Sven?" Kyaw defended.
77 "What do I think? Well ... I think ... I think ... you don't think enough about why the rules are there in the first place. That's what I think. Hmph." Sven said folding his arms.
78 "Oh please, like you've spent any time thinking about 'the rules'. You just follow 'em because you've never spent any time thinking about whether they should even be followed in the first place!" Kyaw said clenching his little fists at his sides in frustration.
79 "What in 'the rules' are we even talking about Kyaw?! What kind of conversation are we even having right now!?" Sven said feeling exasperated by this conversation.
80 "Oh forget it!" Kyaw said with a stomp. "Just come on." Kyaw said as he grabbed his friends paw and tugged. Sven resisted. "Where are you even going?!" Sven said still unsure.
81 "Did you think I didn't have a plan? There is another way out of here Sven! Now Come on ... I'm only trying to help you! There is a way we can sneak back to your families station wagon without your brother seeing us. We've just got to be a little wary. Now please, can you just trust me a little and follow me." Kyaw said pleadingly.
82 Sven could see that tinge of hurt in Kyaw's eyes, and he couldn't help but want to please him. Ideally Sven wanted everyone to be happy with him, but he knew that realistically that was not always feasible. You can't please everyone all the time, but then of course the difficult question arises, whom should one please? That was a question Sven hated to answer, and Sven didn't even want to begin to think about what he might actually want himself! It was hard enough pleasing everyone else, let alone himself. Maybe that's why he loved Kyaw. He made him ask himself, what makes him happy? And was that really such a wrong question to ask? Shouldn't one at least ask it? Instead of always stuffing it down like Sven felt he had to.
83 "Alright Kyaw" Sven said gently squeezing Kyaw's paw. "You're right, I'm just being overly cautious. Lead the way mate"
84 Kyaw blushed, although it was impossible to tell in that dark damp cold cellar. Mainly he blushed at being referred to as Sven's "mate". What did he mean by that? Was he saying they were actually ...
85 "Sven ... why do you ... uh ..." he began unsure he really wanted to know the answer.
86 "Huh? What is it?" Sven said confused. "um ... nevermind. Thanks. Follow me" Kyaw simply said.
87 With that he lead Sven to the other end of the cellar. It got darker and darker the further they got. Just when it got to the point where it seemed like it might go on forever, Kyaw walked into the other wall; a solid block of concrete forming the foundation of the Rec Center. Kyaw then began to feel his way to the right, following the wall, feeling around in the dark. "It should be around here somewhere" he said more to himself than to Sven.
88 The wine cellar gave way, the shelves abruptly ending to reveal piles of discarded Christmas decorations. Very old and lonely stuff, stuff that perhaps should have been thrown out long ago but which no one had the heart to, or more likely cared enough to bother. A ghostly aura emanated from the lonely things in the back, the old forgotten spirits of many a Christmas past, silently speaking of old and ancient rites of the season. Sven felt it, but did not understand it. How the winter could be a very scary and lonely time, the harbinger of death, the haunting possibility of a never ending winter, the death of the sun, of the spirit world mingling with the world of flesh and blood, with the ethereal, the imagined, and phantasmal, seeming to come into focus and feel ... real ... during this one special time of year. It was creepy. It seemed to somehow get even colder the closer they approached it. Sven sensed something eerie just waiting for them around the corner and became increasingly uncomfortable.
89 None of this was unfamiliar to Kyaw however. He'd been raised in the "old ways", of telling ghost stories by the fire in the dead of winter, while the winds of winter howled their ghostly howls, threatening all who dared to go out in the night to be shallowed up and lost forever. The only safety was the magic circle of protection brought about by the family huddled together with only the fire to create light and a few stray candles. It was a dark and sacred time, a time to remember the old ways to give the old Gods strength to return and bring the world of light back. Santa was nothing more than a bastardization of Odin, the babe in swaddling clothes in the manager just the shadow of the birth of Sol Invictus. This is what Kyaw had been taught. To him, Christmas was ancient and mysterious, and there was always a dark underbelly to the holiday that their little town with it's bright and cheery lights and decorations was unaware of. 50 year old Christmas decorations somehow embodied this perfectly. When the bright lights were extinguished all that was left was that cold emptiness that had claimed so many lives in the past, and their ghosts were here haunting this very place.
90 Sven didn't like these feelings and in spite of himself was actually feeling a bit afraid. There was a strange howling wind and the cold was biting and unnatural. How could it be so cold? Why in this corner in particular?
91 "Let's turn back" he said, having had his fill of this creepy place.
92 "Relax, we are almost there" Kyaw said pulling his unwilling friend along. If anyone saw Sven now they'd probably be laughing at him. Here we was with his paw next to his mouth shivering and looking around as if he were seeing things and hearing things. He was being a lily livered coward. Imagine, the Star of The Valley Kits being afraid of the dark! But this place inexplicably gave him the creeps. Maybe the old spirits of Christmas weren't too happy being ignored and forgotten, like these cold forgotten relics of the Inn's early history. If these old decorations could speak what would they say? No doubt they would speak of the golden days of the Inn when they were in full display and they were bright and new. Now they were dirty and broken and had been left to die slowly alone. When you constantly run away from your own shadows the fears do not diminish, they grow. While Sven did not understand his fears on a conscious level on an unconscious level he could sense all his anxieties that he was so desperate to get away from down here. Perhaps in some deep corner of his mind he knew that young boys could do unspeakable things down here and no one would be the wiser. Whose to say such things had not happened before? And that creeped him out and made him fear himself. As uncomfortable as this made him, still, he held tightly onto Kyaw's paw. It's warmth was comforting to him. At least in the dark no one could see him holding on for dear life.
93 Something haunting was slowly coming into view and into focus.
94 "AHHH!" Sven screamed out! Kyaw instinctively covered Sven's mouth to stifle the sound. "Are you crazy? Sigmund might hear us!" Kyaw shout whispered. Sven pointed ahead in horror.
95 After the last set of wine racks, on top of a massive pile of broken christmas decorations was a very large and imposing sleigh with a massive figure atop it, and realistic reindeer were pulling it, only they looked more like corpses than living breathing elk, but that wasn't the most frightening thing. One of their faces had rotted away revealing a reindeer skull underneath. The whole thing was a morbid mockery of the christmas Sven knew. A parody of the mirth and good cheer of the season with a frightening monument to death and decay.
96 "Is that a dead animal?" Sven asked in hushed horror. Kyaw walked up to it to inspect it closer. When he seen it up close and touched it with his own hands he hopped down and said "It's taxodermied."
97 "Huh? What's that?" Sven said frightened. "Uh, you can relax Sven it won't bite." Kyaw said sarcastically. Sven frowned. "They use the skin of the deer and stuff it with wool and sometimes they keep the bones as well to give it structure. Looks like these haven't been well preserved. Probably cause it gets damp down here."
98 "Why didn't they just make 'em out of plastic molds." Sven said disgusted. "Cause they didn't have plastic molds like that back then, and besides these look real. Anyway nevermind that". With that Kyaw walked over to the wall and sniffed the air as he slowly moved along it.
99 "Ah! Here's the spot. They tried to hide it with some junk but me and Skipsy found it. Listen" Kyaw said pointing up his ears. A light whistling sound could be heard and a cold breeze shivered them to their bones, almost as if it were supernatural.
100 "It's right behind this Christmas tree. Here, help me move it" Kyaw said.
101 The boys began working together to push the tree out of the way, and finally managed to throw it over to the other side. They were rewarded with a cold blast of wind. Sven saw a pitch blackness the likes of which he'd never seen, a black hole right in the foundation in the wall.
102 "You don't seriously expect us to go through there, do you?" Sven said worried.
103 "A course!" Kyaw pipped up.
104 "But you don't even know where it leads!" Sven said.
105 "Yes I do. Otherwise why would I show it to you." Kyaw tried to reason. "I could think of a reason" Sven said suspiciously. "Huh?" Kyaw said not understanding Sven's implication. "Never mind. Where does it lead then?" Sven tried to change the subject. "Outside a course. That's why it's so cold here. All the cold wind funnels through this narrow tunnel. It's probably what caused that reindeer to rot" Kyaw explained. "Don't remind me" Sven chimed in. "Anyway, once we get out we will be a good distance from the Rec Center, and the snow will provide cover for us. Sigmund won't be able to see us." Kyaw reassured.
106 Sven considered this. "I don't know. It looks really small and dark. Couldn't we get lost in there?"
107 "We just need to take it slow and feel our way around." Kyaw reassured. "Couldn't there be a deep pit we might fall in?" Sven continued to question. "Nu uh. Me and Skipsy came back after we first found it and explored it thoroughly with a flash light. It just goes down for a bit and then straight back up."
108 Sven gulped. "Do you - have a flash light with you right now?". Kyaw just shook is head no silently. Great. They would have to crawl through complete darkness to get to the other end. Sven couldn't help but feel like some malevolence was waiting down there for him. He could believe anything at this moment. Maybe they'd meet up with the legendary abominable snow man and this was his lair. His imagination was running wild. You'll have to remember Sven was only six. A child's imagination can be quite vivid. Enough to believe in Christmas magic ... and mischief.
109 "I - don't think I can do this" Sven finally said. "Yes you can. Come on Sven, you are the bravest boy I know!" Kyaw said encouragingly.
110 "Brave?!" Sven said surprised. "I'm - not - brave. I'm a coward. You are the brave one. I can't even do half the stuff you do ..." he said. He'd never admit to being a coward to any other boy, but it felt okay to tell Kyaw this, Kyaw wasn't exactly a boy boy, right?
111 "But you are brave Sven. Don't you know that?" Kyaw said as he grabbed both Sven's paws and put them together. "Sven I wish I was as brave as you? Don't you know how many times you've come to save me? You stood up to that raccoon boy, and you stood up to your big mean brother. Whenever I was in danger you didn't even hesitate to stand up to boys twice your size. I'm the coward Sven, honest. I never speak up for myself, I'm always too shy to speak to boys. I - I think you are amazing Sven."
112 Sven began to blush and some warmth began to glow from inside. Kyaw's words touched him. He was not use to such praise. All he ever felt was that he was never good enough. That he always had to strive and do better and work harder. To him it was nothing. It was just what he had to do.
113 "What choice did I have? I couldn't let them hurt you. It's nothing really." he tried to dismiss.
114 "No no, you don't understand Sven. It's everything to me. No one has ever stood up for me like that before." Kyaw said as he came closer to Sven. "And if you are willing to risk yourself like that ... for me ... it must mean ... it must mean you ..." Kyaw trailed off, unable to say the last part. A cold howling wind beckoned the boys onward.
115 There was one thing Sven feared more than the dark ... and that was admitting his feelings ...
116 "Alright. Come on let's go." he said pretending to be brave and walking past Kyaw towards the empty void. Kyaw turned around to see Sven smile towards him and beckon him forward. Perhaps it was for the best. Sven would admit his feelings in his own time, thought Kyaw.
117 "I've got to lead the way silly" Kyaw said as he grabbed Sven's paw and climbed into the darkness. He poked his head out and added "We'll have to hold hands the whole way. Otherwise we might get lost and separated". "I know" said Sven. Why this had needed to said wasn't explicitly said, but both boys knew they were testing each other. Kyaw knew Sven was uneasy with hand holding, but Sven had made it clear he would not make an issue of it this time. With that reassurance Kyaw disappeared into the darkness abyss, and Sven, giving one last look around the haunted place, disappeared as well ...
*16*
118 Sven could hear the sounds of dripping water in the dark collecting into little puddles. Ahead was the inkiest black void Sven had ever saw. Not a speak of light could be seen down there. Sven couldn't help but look behind him to see the dim light of the entryway they'd come from, what had only moments ago seemed dreadfully dark in of itself, now was a bright grey glow. Sven could tell that they were slowly making their way down, down, down, and he worried that it would just continue like that indefinitely. Kyaw was sure to go slow to make sure neither of them stumbled in the dark. Sven was in fact very grateful to be holding Kyaw's hand at the moment. He held it firmly without any reservations now. Perhaps the absolute darkness made him feel comfortable knowing no one could see. If you could see him in the dark you'd see that he was in fact quiet frightened, but then again, wouldn't you be? No telling what could be down here, you literally could not see a thing. At least Kyaw was there to keep him company. He couldn't imagine what it would be like climbing down by himself.
119 After what seemed like a very long time, but was probably only a few minutes, they reached the bottom, and it was then that Sven could see a gleam of light from above, like a ray of hope from the heavens. A steep climb was up ahead, but Sven was grateful to see the light at least.
120 "We're gonna climb up there?" Sven asked becoming a bit worried. "Yup!" Kyaw said self assured. "But it's so steep?" Sven said quietly. "I know. We just have to be careful. We could get hurt if we slip and fall". "No kidding." Sven said in awe as they both looked up and the challenge ahead.
121 Well there was nothing to be done about it except to walk towards it now. Not much sense in going back the way they came.
122 "Careful. It might be slippery" Kyaw warned. Kyaw then helped to hoist Sven up and Sven in turn helped lift Kyaw up.
123 The next couple of minutes were a bit intense. Progress was slow and not unlike rock climbing. However they slowly found their footing and there were some ledges where they could rest. As they climbed the light only got brighter, especially reflecting off all of the bright white snow.
124 At one point Sven grabbed onto Kyaw's foot and nearly pulled both of them down. Kyaw shrieked out briefly but then tried to stifle it as to not attract attention. He looked down at Sven who was blushing. "Sorry. I s-slipped, hehe" he said bashfully. "That's alright, but maybe you should climb on ahead" Kyaw suggested. Sven climbed up past Kyaw and Kyaw braced Sven's feet at some points to make sure Sven wouldn't lose his balance again. It was harder for Sven with his big floppy roo feet, but somehow the both of them managed to climb to the top.
125 It got easier as they approached the summit, the bright morning light practically beaming down on them. At last the view opened up to a beautiful wintery vista. The Ski lift could be seen climbing up the mountain, and beautiful rolling hills of snow could be seen for miles around. Just behind them was the Rec Center. For now Kyaw and Sven could only be seen by their heads barely poking out of the snow like rabbits poking their head out of a rabbit warren.
126 "The Rec Center is behind us, but it will be hard to see us with that mound of snow above." Kyaw said as he pointed behind and above them. Sven observed that they were indeed relatively low in comparison. Then they returned their gaze ahead. "See that lamppost up ahead? That marks the entry to the catacombs." Kyaw said. "You mean there are dead furs down there?!" Sven said concerned. "What? No. What gave you that idea!" Kyaw said. "That's what catacombs are. There caves where dead furs are stored" Sven explained. Kyaw blushed a little. "Oh. No I just mean there are caves down there visitors can explore. I just thought catacombs sounded cooler, hehe." Kyaw explained.
127 "What if Sigmund sees us?" Sven asked. "Well, the coast looks clear for the moment. I say we just make a run for it. If we can make it down into the caves we will be able to stay under ground and hidden until we can get back to the Ski Lift. From there it should be easy to travel to the Inn"
128 Sven gave a tentative look around. The lamppost was not but 30 yards away, and the path was covered in thick snow. Sven screwed up his courage. "Alright. On the count of three then", "Mhm" Kyaw nodded in agreement. "One ... two ... three."
129 Both boys jumped and landed in the deep snow. So far so good. The two of them started to hop from place to place, not unlike a pair of snow rabbits trying to escape a predator. It seemed like it was incredibly far away. But they kept hopping forward yard by yard all the while feeling like Sigmund was staring a hole in their backsides. Once or twice the boys dared to glance back, expecting to see him looming above them standing on the snow mound with a sinister smirk, but he was not there. They'd apparently lost him by having gone through the secret route.
130 At last they reached the lamppost and quickly scurried underground for cover. They popped their heads back up above the snow to survey the clearing. "Where do you suppose Sigmund is?" Sven asked. "I have no idea. Maybe he's still looking for us in the Rec Center" Kyaw offered. "I sure hope so" Sven said. Then he got a little chill down his shoulder. "Wait, how do we know he's not in the caves already?" he asked nervously. "Hmmm ..." thought Kyaw for a moment, then he snapped his fingers. "Look, the only tracks in the snow are ours. Sigmund couldn't have come by this way" Kyaw said. "Huh. Good point." Sven said genuinely impressed with his clever little friend. "Thank you" Kyaw said with a proud little smile. "Now come on, I gotz somethin' to show ya" Kyaw said waving for his friend to join him down in the "catacombs" as he called them.
131 As Kyaw and Sven carefully made their way down, it quickly got rather dark and dimly lit. They soon found themselves surrounded by different paths in seemingly all directions. Sven looked around inquisitively. "Woooow" he said, impressed by the sights. "Follow me" Kyaw signaled as he headed towards a small opening on the wall to their left.
132 Kyaw emerged on the other side and looked back at his friend. He gestured his arms out wide and smiled, "Look Sven, it's beautiful". Sven followed dutifully not sure what he was about to see. As he walked out of the narrow passage way he suddenly got a rush of acrophobia. The little passageway opened up suddenly to a vast chasm going deep into the earth as well as towering over them by several feet. It was dizzyingly high, like staring down from the balcony of a sky scraper. There was a wooden guard rail but it hardly felt sturdy or adequate given the massive danger of falling! Sven instinctively backed up.
133 "Come on Sven. Isn't the view beautiful?" Kyaw said holding onto the rails and signaling his friend to join him. Sven took a moment to take his surroundings in. They were indeed beautiful. There was a wonderful sound of rushing water as there was a little waterfall coming down on the other side of the chasm right in front of them. The place felt serene, almost sacred.
134 "Are you sure that's safe?" inquired Sven nervously. "Oh pffff ... this rail is made of sturdy wood, see?" he said as he attempted to make it buckle to show his friend. "CAREFUL!" Sven shouted rushing over to grab Kyaw from the ledge. He grabbed Kyaw by the paws. The look of concern on his face was genuine.
135 "So you do care ..." Kyaw gently breathed a sigh of relief as he gave Sven a winsome smile. "I just - it's just - you scared me! I don't want to think of anything bad happening to you ... I-I'd be like that would anyone ... honest!" Sven said both frazzled by the thought of delicate little Kyaw going over the edge, but also in having to rationalize his feelings. "Oh Svyb, you can't fool me anymore ... hehe" Kyaw giggled as he gripped gently onto Sven's paws and moved slowly moved closer and closer to the handsome roo boy. Sven found himself transfixed by Kyaw's beautiful baby blue eyes, and suddenly, everything didn't seem so bad and Sven felt at peace ... he smiled as Kyaw came within inches of his face ...
136 Little did the two boys know they were about to be found out! Sigmund had heard Sven's shout echoing from the chasm. He'd given up searching through the Rec Center a while ago, figuring they must be hiding somewhere around the town. Sigmund had just been crossing the Town Christmas Tree when he heard Sven shout "CAREFUL!". He quickly rushed off the shoveled path into the deep snow in the direction he heard the shout.
137 Sigmund rushed to the edge and suddenly had to bring himself to a halt not to go over! It took Sigmund a moment to recover, but when he did the first thing his eyes caught sight of was Kyaw holding hands with Sven and getting very close to him. Close enough to kiss for some reason.
138 "HEY! GET YOUR GRUBBY PAWS OFF MY LIL BROTHER YOU SKEEZY LIL FAGBIT!" Sigmund shouted from a top and across the chasm. Both the boys had forgotten all about Sigmund in their special moment and were shocked to see him standing over them.
139 After the initial shock was over though Kyaw calmed down. Sigmund was all the way on the other side of the chasm. There was no way he could get over to them, or so Kyaw thought. "Shit, let's get out of here!" Sven said as he tried to pull Kyaw away from the ledge, but Kyaw wasn't having it. Kyaw leaned onto the fence and shouted back at his accuser. "SVEN GRABBED MY PAWS YOU BIG NASTY OAF! HE LOVES ME AND WANTS ME AND HE'S GOING TO TAKE ME TO HIS RAINBOW FAIRY CASTLE AND WE ARE GONNA LIVE HAPPILY EVER AFTER AND THERE IS NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT! SO THERE!" Kyaw shouted up at Sigmund. Sven was mortified. "I NEVER SAID ANY OF THAT!" he shouted up to Sigmund to save face. Sigmund scowled down at them ...
140 "Shut up Sven!" Sigmund shouted back at his dweeby little brother. "CAN'T DO NOTHING ABOUT IT YOU SAY?!" he said giving a smug and cocky smile to the little rabbit boy. "WANNA BET?!" he shouted. And with that he started making his way around the chasm at top speed with his long springy roo legs.
141 "Crap!" Sven said as he tried to pull them away but Kyaw wasn't exactly rushing off with him. "Come on!" Sven begged. "But Svy, he doesn't know the way" Kyaw said.
142 Sigmund made it to a spot directly above them and smiled a sinister smile. Kyaw and Sven instinctively shrunk before him, despite Kyaw still believing Sigmund had no way to reach them. "Y-You don't scare us! You don't know the way! Y-You can't get down here! " Kyaw tried to shout bravely up at Sigmund, but his voice was already beginning to waver with doubt. "Oh I can't can't I?! Hehe ... GERONIMO!" Sigmund shouted as he prepared to spring down into the soft snow patch Kyaw and Sven were standing on. He was really going to do it! "Oh sugar ..." Kyaw whispered as he realized they were in trouble again.
143 Sven pulled Kyaw out of the way just as Sigmund leapt into the air. He jumped onto a tall snow patch on the opposite side to break his fall, and then slid down the other side bringing an avalanche of snow down with him practically covering the narrow passage. The boys had already run inside and Kyaw was weighing their options of which way to run off to.
144 "Which way?!" Sven said. Kyaw's little rabbit brain puzzled for a minute, before he decided on the best course of action. "This way!" he said pulling Sven sharply to the left just as Sigmund burst out from the snow in the narrow passage lunging to try and grab them. All he got for his efforts though was to practically fall on his face. He stumbled to try to get up while huffing and puffing. He wasn't used to having to move this much and the jump had taken a lot out of him.
145 Of course, Kyaw and Sven were getting tired too, despite being young and energetic, but fortunately for them Kyaw had a plan. Something he'd been thinking of since the yard, and now was his chance to set up his trap. Hopefully Sigmund would fall for it!
146 "Come on!" Kyaw said as he scrambled up a rocky path out into the open air. Sven scrambled up after Kyaw, but couldn't help asking, "Do you know where we are going?!". "I know where I'm going, just follow me" Kyaw responded hastily as he hopped through the snow. "I just wish I knew where we were going!" Sven responded snidely.
147 "Where you guys gonna run to, huh? You twerps can't lose me, I'm twice your age and twice your size!" Sigmund taunted. Sven was beginning to feel Sigmund was right. How could they lose him? No matter what they did they seemed to be trapped unable to shake him!
148 Kyaw circled around a large depression in the ground. "Careful, make sure you go around, there was a cave in". Sven quickly hopped around the edges to discover a large narrow hole into the earth. "Quick we have to climb down here!" Kyaw said as he began carefully making his way down. Sven looked down at the hole. One could jump down but it was too steep to climb back up. "B-but but we'll get stuck down there!" Sven protested. "No we won't I have a plan, just come on." Kyaw said. Sven was still divided, but when he saw his brother galloping over the hill and atop the snow that pretty much settled it! Shit. Sven dived down into the hole. In fact, he was able to hop down with his roo legs much faster than Kyaw and got to the bottom first.
149 "Here, I catch you!" Sven said as he offered up his paw. Kyaw jumped down and fell as he started a little mini avalanche of snow. Kyaw landed on Sven and fell on top of him as he fell over. Their bodies were closely pressed together and once again Sven found Kyaw's face dangerously close to his. They both were breathing heavy, and Sven was feeling awkward with the soft and pleasant rabbit pressing down on him. It was giving him a little tickle between his legs and he didn't know why but it made him a tad uncomfortable. He was blushing uncontrollably desperately trying to think of a way to get himself up without making the whole affair awkward.
150 Kyaw broke the silence, putting his face in one paw and smiling, "We've got to stop meeting like this! hehe". Sven couldn't help but admit, Kyaw was kind of cute ... for a boy.
151 Just then another avalanche of snow came down as Sigmund leapt across the gap, braced himself, and prepared to jump down after them. "Yah-hashimite!" Sven said as he realized Sigmund wasn't going to be dissuaded from pursuing them no matter the cost.
152 "You fools got another thing coming if you think I'm not gonna come down there and thwamp the both of you!" Sigmund said as he prepared to clumsily leap down. The boys quickly scrambled to their feet and Kyaw took the lead again pulling Sven by the paw and disappearing off down some path.
153 The caverns were full of different paths for visitors to explore. Knowing them even a tiny bit better was a huge advantage, and Kyaw knew it.
154 Sigmund came down with a bit of a tumble, but the fall was mostly safe because of how much snow there already was and how much he brought with him. None the less he kind of stumbled and face planted because he was in such a hurry to get down and get his paws around those grubby brats necks. He scrambled to his feet as quickly as he could before they disappeared down some alley.
155 There definitely was no getting back up the way they came with how steep the hole was, and how much slippery snow and ice lined it, but neither the first graders nor Sigmund had any concern right now except their chase.
156 "Come on! This way!" Sigmund heard Kyaw say, telling him they'd gone around the corner and not down the other path.
157 "KYAW! This is a dead end! He's gonna be here any second" Sven shouted. They had reached another look out with another wooden guard rail before them, looking down into the massive chasm with a beautiful waterfall streaming down one of it's sides, flowing down into the caverns below.
158 Perhaps you've already realized Kyaw's plan. He wasted no time. He began climbing up and over the rails!
159 "Kyaw that's crazy! We can't!" Sven protested, knowing exactly where this was going. Kyaw began to reach up above the fence onto a little narrow ledge. "Just don't look down!" Kyaw said as he began to shimmy across the ledge. This was crazy. Sven never expected Kyaw of all furs to be risking his life like this. Sven had to admit, this sissy little rabbit boy was braver than him. Even so, he couldn't bring himself to do it, that is, until he saw his older brother barreling down towards him.
160 Sven wasted no time, climbing up like he'd seen Kyaw do, and getting on the ledge and starting to shimmy just enough to get out of reach as Sigmund swiped his paw over the fence.
161 "Shit! Shit! Shit!" Sven said as he pressed up against the cliff shutting his eyes tight. Why'd he do this to himself? He wasn't brave, he wasn't tough, not really. He just wanted furs to think he was, so they wouldn't make fun of him! Why did he let this little bunny boy get him into so much trouble!?!
162 Sigmund didn't immediately give pursuit. This was one trick too far, and he breathed heavily just thinking about how far down it was. "Get back here Svy ... get back here or I'm going to tell mom what you are doing!" Sigmund threatened.
163 Sven was frozen in place, he just couldn't keep going, partly out of fear and partly out of trauma. Snow began to fall from the sky drifting into the chasm and he felt it's cold bite across his cheeks. He felt like crying for some reason, though he did not know why, but all he could do was hold his breath and everything else within him.
164 "I knew it. You're nothing but a sniveling wimp. arn'tcha Sven? Why don't you come back this way and give me the keys. If that stupid rabbit wants to risk his neck let him. He's no concern of ours. But mom would have our asses for this and you know it!" Sigmund tried to reason with Sven. Still, Sven couldn't bring himself to give in to his brother, nor to move forward. He felt like he was being pulled in two directions, and he just wanted it to stop.
165 "Sven, it's okay ... we can do this ... together" came a gentle voice. Then Sven felt Kyaws gentle fingers interweave with his. His heart felt a tinge of warmth. Kyaw was so understanding of his feelings, without him even having to explain ... just like a girl. But it's exactly what he needed in that moment. Someone to lend him a hand without shaming him for being a weak and feeble boy secretly. "Let's just take it slow, we can make it" Kyaw reassured. All Sven could do was smile and nod his head yes. Kyaw had given him the courage to face his fears. He was here with Kyaw, and they were in this together. They began to shimmy further and further out away from Sigmund.
166 Sigmund got nervous now. "You you think that's gonna stop me!" he tried to bluff. He got up above the fence and climbed up. He reached his paw out towards Sven as far as he could. He couldn't put all his weight on the ledge because you see, it was too short for a boy his age. Only Sven and Kyaw were young enough to be able to safely balance on it.
167 "Come on Sven, grab my paw. If you die mom will never forgive me ..." Sigmund said with the first sign of concern.
168 Sven looked back at his brother. He didn't care about Sven. He just didn't want things to get any worse between him and his mom. He didn't want to give everyone yet another reason to despise him at home. Perhaps that was uncharitable of Sven, perhaps that wasn't actually true, but that's how he felt. His brother had been nothing but sulky and dismissive of him since the day he was born, seeing him as an enemy rather than an ally, a usurper of his birthright instead of a shareholder in it. Perhaps there was hurt there too, perhaps Sven would have liked an older brother to genuinely be there for him.
169 Sven managed to make out a defiant "S-s-sucks to be you I guess ..."
170 "You damn brat! See if I care if you fall! I'll just tell mom it was all your fault!" Sigmund spat.
171 Then Sigmund had a thought, "no I got a better idea. I'll tell 'em it was Kevin's fault. Kevin is the one that got you killed!" Sigmund said spitefully. "Leave him out of this!" Sven defended. "Hey! You two! No one's fallen yet!" Kyaw snarked.
172 That pissed Sigmund off. "That's it I'm going after you, you little shit!" Sigmund said referring to Kyaw. He put his foot out and began moving towards the ledge despite it being way to small to support his weight.
173 "D-Don't! You might fall!" begged Sven. "Shut up! You just don't want me to catch you! What do you care if I fall!? Fuck face! I hate you!" spat out Sigmund venomously.
174 "You are still my brother Sig, and I don't want you to fall. I'd feel terrible ... J-Just ... j-just leave me and Kya- ... I mean Kev- ... ugh ... JUST LEAVE US ALONE! PLEASE! He's my friend, alright! JUST my friend! And there is nothing wrong with that! I can chose my own friends! Okay?" Sven begged.
175 "Come on Sven, climb up with me" Kyaw begged. He felt like he was being ignored by both of them. Clearly there was something these brothers were trying to work out ... obliquely.
176 The brothers stared intensely at each other, neither willing to budge, both of them scowling as they faced their "adversary".
177 "Sven. Sven! Sven? Why won't you move?" Kyaw began to say with a tone of panic in his voice. "I can't." Sven said resolutely. "But why?!" Kyaw said as he frantically tried to pull on Sven's coat and lift him up. "Because ... if I climb up Sigmund might follow me ...". Kyaw could see that Sven would not budge. Despite how much he despised Sigmund, and likewise Sigmund despised Sven, Sven wasn't willing to be responsible for him falling to his death, and neither was Sigmund for Sven. Clearly, brothers we're still brothers, even when they hated each other. Some code of honor or respect kept them from completely disregarding each other's well being, half-brothers that they were. It was bizarre and fascinating to Kyaw, but his more pressing concern was that Sven was dangling above a two hundred foot precipice, and he desperately wanted Sven to climb up to safety with him ...
178 ... but it was no use. Now what? Kyaw hadn't anticipated this outcome: A stalemate ... a literal cliffhanger ...
*17*
179 It was Sigmund that offered a truce, understanding that things had gone too far. He couldn't be responsible for risking the lives of two six year old's. He could get sent to Juvie and it would be a blight on him for the rest of his life. "Sven, just toss me back the keys. Toss me back the keys and I'll let you two go free. I won't beat the snot outta you two! Alright?"
180 "No! I don't trust you Sigmund! I know you too well! You're still gonna go after him." Sven spat back defiantly. It was then that Kyaw realized he still had a card to play. One that might break up this brotherly stalemate.
181 "Hey, you want the keys? Well here they are!" Kyaw said as he scrambled up the side of the cliff and dangled them before Sigmund's eyes. "You gave him the keys?!" Sigmund scolded Sven. Sven just shrugged. "Those don't belong to you! Give them to me now fagbit or I'll-" Sigmund threatened. "NO! You have to catch me first!" said Kyaw as he raced up towards the railing where not long ago Sven and Kyaw had been looking out on the beautiful view.
182 Sigmund looked up in disbelief at the audacity and tenacity of the little twerp. Then he looked back at Sven. He didn't say anything, but Sven knew what he was thinking. He was about to leave the other way. Leave his brother "for dead" metaphorically. Should he risk abandoning Sven to pursue Kyaw? Sven stared back at his brother. Something in his look told Sigmund, "I'll be okay". And with that Sigmund took off.
183 When Sigmund disappeared out of sight that was Sven's chance to start scaling up the cliff himself. Kyaw was right, it got easier after that initial segment. Kyaw climbed down a bit to help him up.
184 Kyaw had intended Sigmund to go down into the labyrinthine caverns and get hopelessly lost. There was a path off to the right of the cave in, but Sigmund was too smart for that. He wasn't going to fall for Kyaw's trick and wander about aimlessly for hours trying to find his way back out on an unfamiliar path. No, Sigmund was going to do what Kyaw had clearly reckoned would be impossible ... he was climbing back up the cave in!
185 Kyaw had underestimated both Sigmund's resolve and capacity. He used his much larger and springier roo legs to hop up to a ledge and grabbed with all his strength. The icy cold stone bit at his paws but he was not going to be deterred. He hated that smug little rabbit that couldn't keep his mouth shut and didn't seem to know his place, and he was determined to teach him a lesson he wouldn't soon forget. One that would hopefully get him to swear off his brother for good. Somewhere in that black ugly heart of Sigmund's, he really did believe he was protecting his little brother Sven. Sure he despised him, but he was still his brother. Just like he wouldn't let him go off a cliff, he wouldn't let some faggy rabbit try to turn him and send him down a path of sin. Sigmund was older and knew better, and it was his duty to look out for Sven whether he wanted him to or not. One day he'd understand. But for now Sigmund was mostly filled with rage. He didn't like a little fairy boy half his age getting the better of him.
186 Meanwhile the boys tried to quickly yet carefully make their way up. Being small and light certainly had it's advantages. They were less likely to dislodge anything and lose their balance and they needed less space to climb up the ledges. This had been the advantage that ensured Sigmund would not be foolish enough to follow and risk his own life, and yet, it still was pretty dangerous. Both boys wanted to get to the top as quickly as possible and not think about it too much.
187 What seemed to take forever was likely no more than a minute and soon they were gripping the lowest bar of the fence together. Sven instinctively gave Kyaw some leverage to help him up. Kyaw made it up first. He then lent his paw to help Sven up. For a brief moment Sven was dangling off the side and Kyaw was very afraid that Sigmund would come up behind him and frighten him and he'd drop Sven. Thankfully that didn't happen and Sven managed to grip the top of the fence lifting himself up the rest of the way.
188 Little did they know that Sigmund was just inches away from clawing himself out, hands bitterly scratched and frozen, but none the less, he'd managed to do it with all of his twelve year old strength. It was exhausting, but all it mostly succeeded in was making him even more enraged. When he got out he leapt over the precipice like a wolverine, barreling towards the boys outpost with his roo legs doing their work.
189 The boys had just walked out of the narrow passage when they saw an avalanche of snow coming down to their left, and they knew Sigmund was barreling towards them. Without a seconds thought they took off to the right, down an incline that provided some cover.
190 Sigmund hadn't managed to see them, but he wasted no time making it towards the narrow passageway. The boys hid themselves around the corner but saw him run in only to discover they'd already escaped. At least that is what Sigmund hoped ... he took a moment to look down the chasm hoping the worst had not happened, but he saw no evidence of anyone having fallen down there.
191 "Come on, let's go" whispered Kyaw as he whipped Sven around the corner. They ran down some steps that had been provided, hopefully not loud enough for Sigmund to hear. When they got down to the bottom Kyaw looked around frantically trying to remember where it was. "Uh ... this way ... I think" he said pulling Sven by the paw again. They arrived at a crossroads and Kyaw tried to remember which way they were suppose to go down. Then he remembered it was neither. "Oh that's right, we go up this way" he said leading Sven up a set of steps.
192 There were lamps lighting the way and all the paths mostly lead into each other, so there wasn't much danger of becoming permanently lost, however, Kyaw knew they'd have to go down the right way to not accidently run back into Sigmund.
193 Kyaw stopped just as they were about to turn another corner and peaked around. "Sugar!" he said as he pulled back frightened. "What is it?" Sven asked. "Sigmund is just standing there looking around for us" Kyaw said. "Pffff ... figures. He's never gonna let up. Like I told you. We aren't gonna be able to lose him. This was a stupid idea Kyaw" Sven began to grumble. "Shhhh" Kyaw shushed him again. "He might hear you".
194 Kyaw dared to peak around the corner once more. Sigmund wasn't there. He must have gone down one of the other paths to find them. "Quickly!" he said as he grabbed Sven's paw again and they raced down another corridor. Kyaw finally felt a little safe once they rounded the corner and were out of the line of sight.
195 After climbing some more steps they found themselves in a little patch of grass that had been shielded from the snow above. Sven noticed some wild mushrooms growing on the ground but they didn't really have time to stop and appreciate them, though he did wonder whether or not they were the kinds that were safe to eat or not.
196 Kyaw scouted a little further on and Sven stood by the mushrooms lost in thought. Perhaps he was wondering what he was doing paling around with this rabbit, but also feeling perhaps a bit guilty for having had that thought.
197 Kyaw signaled Sven to come over. "Here it is, the other chasm!"
198 Sven walked over to see they were on another precarious ledge, though not quite as bad as the last one. Kyaw seemed to know his way around though, and told him to just follow along the ledge.
199 Despite Sven's fears he walked along the ledge which was definitely much wider than the ones they'd just traversed. Thankfully, a little further on, the drop was not nearly as far below which made Sven feel better. Passing another waterfall, they managed to climb down. By this point they'd well and truly lost Sigmund who was baffled as to which way they could have gone.
200 The boys continued to climb further and further down, as the cave got darker and darker, despite the light and snow coming from above in a large opening. Sven was getting increasingly nervous. This was beginning to feel more and more like a place they weren't suppose to be. It was however strikingly beautiful, like an ancient cathedral, with the stone cliffs towering hundreds of feet above them and the sky shining through like the light of God.
201 After a few minutes they finally reached the base of the cave. Down here there were beautiful stalagmites and stalagtites to be seen, and Sven started to look around in wonder. "Woooow" he said genuinely impressed with it's scale and beauty. His voice echoed hauntingly throughout the caverns, letting the boys sense just what a vast and hollowed out space lay before them, full of secret passages and large throne rooms to Gods that had passed away long ago.
202 The boys were no longer running. They felt safe down here, well and far away from the other vacationers. It was quiet down here except for the occasional sounds of bats and dripping water. Perhaps it would have felt lonely down there in the dark and cold caverns, but since both boys were going on this adventure together it didn't feel that way. It felt more wonderous, a mysterious place they were exploring and experiencing together, and Sven found himself smiling, though he was only dimly aware why. Kyaw felt it too ...
203 It was then that Sven felt the soft little rabbit paw wrap around his. It is a wonder that it surprised him, as he should have expected it at this point. Perhaps if he were more honest with himself he could have admitted that it was something he had wanted to do himself in the moment ...
204 "It's okay Kyaw, there is no need to be frightened..." Sven said as he held Kyaw's paw tighter. "I'm not frightened." responded Kyaw flatly. "Oh ..." replied Sven. He would have happily held the rabbit's hand if it were as a protector of sorts, but Kyaw found the response patronizing. "I'm not a little kid Sven, we're the same age." Kyaw added. "... okay well ... why are you holding my paw then?" Sven began tentatively. Kyaw just raised an eyebrow as if to say, 'really'? "What?!" Sven added defensively. "Sigh. You really don't know?" Kyaw said, still gripping Sven's paw firmly. Sven shook his head no. "Because I wanted to." Kyaw finally said. "... oh ..." Sven let go of his paw. "Boys don't hold paws like that Kyaw.". The boys had stopped in their tracks.
205 "and why not?" Kyaw said folding his arms beginning to tap his foot impatiently.
206 "because ..." he began and realized he didn't immediately have an answer. Kyaw raised that skeptical eyebrow again. God Sven hated the way girls could just judge you with a glance. It was so goddamn annoying and it was starting to piss him off a bit. "Give me a moment ... cause ... cause we aren't a bunch of scared lil babies that's why!" Sven finally said.
207 Kyaw just rolled his eyes, "what has that got to do with it. I already said it's got nothing to do with being afraid. Maybe I just wanted to hold you paw to hold your paw. You know ... because I like you." Kyaw said.
208 "Yeah. I like you too Kyaw, but we're still boys, ya know? That's not how boys show they like each other, alright? If you wanna be a boy then take my advice, there is certain things boys don't do." Sven said.
209 "Well I'm a boy and I wanted to hold your paw, that's all. I thought we were having a moment. We're all alone here Sven, it's just the two of us. Can't we just be ourselves for once? At least here and now?" Kyaw said as he walked towards Sven. Sven instinctively backed up, though he was careful to make sure he didn't walk off a cliff down here.
210 "Kyaw I - I don't know what you are talking about. I am being myself." Sven said. Kyaw gave that skeptical eye again. "Can you STOP THAT! It's starting to get annoying. You said you wanted to be a boy didn't you? I'm just trying to help you Kyaw, like you wanted!" Sven said defensively.
211 "For the last time Sven, I am a boy!" Kyaw replied a bit miffed.
212 "You know what I mean!" Sven shot back. "Do I? Do you even? What even is 'being a boy'? Tell me that!" Kyaw responded.
213 "... I don't know ... it's - it's hard to put in words ..." Sven offered. "Try" Kyaw insisted. "Sigh. I don't know, it's like, it's just a certain energy. Like girls have this whole energy to them that's just different. Softer, more pleasant ... so sweet and kind and wonderful ... sigh" Sven started to trail off. "Ugh. Sven I didn't ask you what girls are like, I asked you what boys are like!" Kyaw responded impatiently. He didn't like the way Sven was getting all swoony talking about girls, it irritated him for some reason, but he was only dimly aware of why.
214 "That's just it! Boys are not like girls. They're just not girls. See? They are like the opposite!" Sven said.
215 "Oh got it. So boys are rougher, unpleasant, gross and cruel and awful! That it?" Kyaw pouted.
216 "Hey! Why are you getting offended?! You aren't any of those things. You're not even really a -" Sven said without thinking. Kyaw was sweet and kind and wonderful ... just like a ... just like a g-
217 "But I am a BOY! As I keep having to tell you!" Kyaw blurted out. Sven for some reason hated to be reminded of this fact.
218 "Well ... you sure don't act like it! Why do you wanna be a boy anyway? What's so fucking great about being a boy?! You think I like it? You think it's so fucking great for me?! Having to constantly show up or shut up all the time?" Sven responded angerly.
219 "Well being a boy could be great if you'd stop shutting everything down all the time! And you think it's so great 'being a girl'? How do you think I feel? No one ever takes me seriously, everyone thinks I'm a dumb bunny and my brain is just made of fluff, everyone laughs at me, and I'm constantly not allowed to say or show how I feel and keep out of the way." Kyaw said as he stomped his footpaw.
220 "I think that's more of a you problem." Sven said flatly. That did it. Kyaw had reached his limit. He started to storm off.
221 "Wait Kyaw, don't go. Come on. Please don't be cross with me. I - I just want you to like me okay?" Sven pleaded.
222 That got Kyaw to stop in his tracks. "You want me to - like you? Well how in da heck do you think I feel?" he turned around with tears in his eyes.
223 "Kyaw, I don't know what you mean. And yeah, I want you to like me. Is that so strange?" Sven said.
224 Kyaw tried to rub the tears out of his eyes. "Why does it matter whether I like you or not? I'm just some nobody. You are the one everyone likes and admires and looks up to in class."
225 "Furs like me because I'm good at something. I just try to be friendly to everyone I meet and cause everyone knows who I am and what I'm good at I get along with everyone. That's all." Sven admitted.
226 "But that's just it, you have so many friends Sven. All the boys love you! So why do you care whether or not I like you?" Kyaw continued to pry.
227 "I - I just don't like to see you upset Kyaw, that's all". "Oh is that all" Kyaw said petulantly. "Yes. What more do you want from me? It makes me sad to see you cry. What's wrong with that? And what? Are you jealous of me or something? I'd trade what I have to have what you have. All the girls seem to like you!"
228 "They like me because I'm unthreatening. I don't want or expect anything from them. Because they know I'm different and I'm friendly they like me. That's all." Kyaw said.
229 Both the boys paused. A little smile crept up Sven's face. "You know ..." he began, "it's funny ... but I think we are jealous of each other ... heh heh. Isn't that ridiculous? Maybe that's what makes us alike ... that we are ... uh different, but we have the same problem, ya' know?"
230 "No Sven that's not it." Kyaw said wiping the last of his tears away. "I'm not jealous of you. I love you. I don't want to be you. I just want to be with you..." Kyaw said facing Sven directly.
231 "... but I'm right here Kyaw." Sven said plainly. "Are you? Then be with me Sven." Kyaw said as he stepped down and put his paw out to grab.
232 Sven was about to say he didn't know what Kyaw meant, but at the same time he got it. He understood it implicitly. Sven wasn't really 'there'. He was always somewhere else. Always worried about what was going to happen next, what furs would say, what his actions were and whether they were right or not. He couldn't simply be, let alone "be" with anyone. Well ... they were all alone in that cave after all ... maybe it'd be okay ... to stop being 'boys' for a moment.
233 Sven grabbed Kyaw's paw, and they continued to explore the cave together, taking in it's vastness, and enjoying the moment in each other's company, whatever 'this' was. At least Sven knew Kyaw wouldn't judge him. He felt safe for the moment.
234 The boys soon came to an almost mystical sight ... they saw the bottom of the waterfall. They looked up and saw that they were now at the bottom of the chasm. "Woooow. This place is so huge!" Sven said outloud.
235 "Can you feel it Sven?" Kyaw said looking around with a wild look in his eyes, like a little bit of his rabbit essence was fully awake. "Feel what?" Sven asked in a shushed tone. "This place is sacred ... it's hollered ground."
236 "Uh ... I think you mean hallowed" Sven corrected. "Pfft ... same diff" Kyaw dismissed. "Anyway, how can this place be sacred? Doesn't look like it's been touched by furs." Sven observed. "Uh huh. It's pure." Kyaw said. "No, that's not what I mean. I mean there's no temple here. There's no cross, no pulpit, no preacher, no pews-" Sven tried to clarify. "Exactly Sven. It's not sullied." Kyaw said. "Huh?" Sven said raising a quizzical eyebrow. "This is where real gods reside Sven. In the places away from us furs. In secluded places, quiet places, this is where the divine shines brightest. This is a natural Cathy-droll." Kyaw said. "I think you mean Cathedral." Sven corrected again. Kyaw just waved Sven's correct away irritably. Sven smiled to himself, not out of derision, but a kind of knowing sense of endearment. Kyaw was such a fussy little boy sometimes, but all he could do was smile to himself about it.
237 "Hold on Sven, I have to do something" Kyaw said as he let go of Sven's paw. Kyaw closed his eyes and bowed his head and folded his palms together. Prayer? Well that's what it looked like anyway. Then Kyaw plucked out one of his whiskers. He placed it in the water and let it float down, then he walked back to Sven who was kind of dumbfounded. "Uh ... what did you do that for?" Sven said quizzically. "It's a sign of respect. Maybe a little way to say we were here. I don't know. It just came to me." Kyaw shrugged. "Well okay I guess." Sven said confused.
238 "Maybe you should pull a whisker too?" Kyaw teased as he got up close and smiled at Sven. "Oh ... hehe ... no no ... I'm not allowed to sacrifice to random cave gods ... sorry" Sven tried to nervously abstain.
239 "Aw ... but it shows that we were here together. It can be a witness to the gods" Kyaw encouraged. "hehe ... I'm sure he knows ... -_-;" Sven said waving to signal his refusal. He felt like Yah-Hasha was staring him down right now.
240 "Well ... alright ..." Kyaw said a bit disappointed. It felt like Sven wasn't willing to fully commit and break bread with him, but it was okay. He'd stood up for him on the cliff. Maybe he wasn't ready to commit, but Kyaw was beginning to see the evidence that Sven cared. The way he was worried about him going over the rails. The way he defended his friendship to Sigmund's face. The way it bothered him when Kyaw was even the tiniest bit upset with him. He had feelings for him. Kyaw was sure of it. He just wasn't ready to fully admit it. That must be it, he thought to comforted himself.
241 "Well ... at least sit with me a bit." Kyaw said as he sat down in view of the waterfall. "Al-alright ... I'm kind of tired anyway, we could use a rest."
242 Kyaw folded his legs, and took a deep breath as he spread his arms out. "What are you doing?" Sven asked. "I'm getting attuned with this place. The gods are everywhere you know, if you take the time to know them." Kyaw said while meditating. "I know Yah-Hasha is everywhere" Sven said leaning back on his paws and taking the view in. "Same thing" Kyaw said serenely. "No it's not. That makes no sense. They're totally opposite things!" Sven said irritably". "Sigh ... you think too much ..." Kyaw said losing a tiny bit of concentration ... and patience. "What is that suppose to mean?!" Sven fired back. "... just feel ... stop thinking so damned much. Just close your eyes and feel what's already here and stop trying to label it."
243 Well ... it was hard to argue with that. If Yah-Hasha really was everywhere then that's what he would sense, right? And what was the harm in that? It was worth a shot, thought Sven, and maybe just maybe, he was getting a little tired of being afraid of every new experience that crossed his path ...
244 Sven folded his legs like Kyaw had done, and closed his eyes and tried to "feel" whatever it was he was suppose to feel. At first he felt a little silly. He wasn't sure what he was suppose to feel, or do, but gradually as the seconds and then minutes wore on he started to have a little tickle behind his neck. Something just beyond his grasp and his senses, but there all the same. He started to notice the sounds around him. They were ... louder somehow. He began to feel the vast space around him ... not just large but old ... "quiet" as Kyaw put it ... something more than anthro or animal. A majestic stillness unphased by the quibblings of the heart, and yet one's heart could feel intimately connected to it. Was this Yah-Hasha? Was this the cave? Was this the ancient gods Kyaw spoke of? Or was it all in Sven's head? Or maybe it was none of these things and all these things at once! Sven drifted away into a sea of confusion, at first disturbing, but then also slowly, comforting, being at peace with the mystery, enjoying being alive and not knowing but wondering all the same.
245 "how do you feel Sven?" asked Kyaw peacefully. "I feel ... nice ... really nice" Sven said smiling. "mm hm" Kyaw responded knowingly. "So you really don't believe in Yah-Hasha?" Sven couldn't help interjecting. "Shhhh! Enough about beliefs. Just let the experience in." Kyaw instructed. Sven decided to just go with it. What was the harm? He really did feel nice, and maybe, that ... was enough ...
246 Feeling refreshed, like he'd just taken a nap while wide awake, Sven opened his eyes and saw a sight that almost felt mystical. Twinkles of light coming down, as snow entered the cavern, dancing in beautiful swirling patterns. Sven felt like he could "understand" them, their intricate dance, the subtle air flows that guided them like an invisible hand. He felt like he was watching it unfold in slow motion. He felt like his body was melting away and yet he was still there to observe what happened. What were these strange and wonderous feelings, why did everything seem so vivid in this moment? More real than real!
247 Prayer had never felt like this before. Sven had always felt like he was crying out desperately, pathetically, to get Yah-Hasha's very limited attention. All he felt was guilty for not living up to everyone's expectations of him, including Yah-Hasha. It was cathartic, but never joyous for some reason. This wasn't anything like that. He felt ... forgiven? No. Innocent? That was closer to it, but it was more than that. Pure. Unhampered. Unburdened with the need to be anything in particular. Ready to receive whatever the universe wanted to bring his way. At peace. Was this the love of God his parents had always told him about? It must be! Mustn't it? Why did Yah-Hasha see fit to grace him with it only now, when it felt like he was letting go of everything he thought he knew?
248 What was it that Kyaw was trying to show him? Sven really wanted to know! 'Something you can't put into words' he said to himself. What did that mean? If you couldn't put it into words how could you ... make any sense of it? To feel ... yes ... but ... where do feelings come from? They come unbidden. Are they only things to be pushed down? Vices? Vicissitudes of the soul, temptations, wayward thoughts, to be pressed down? Or were they a window to something more? Something inside oneself ... unsullied ... untouched by furs ... sacred ... to go within connected one to everything without ... wait. How does that make any sense? what did that even mean? Where did that come from?
249 Thoughts began to swirl rapidly around in Sven's head, far too quickly to make sense of, like trying to hold the patterns of snowflakes in one's hand ... for a brief moment they lingered ... and then melted away in confusion ... they could not be held for long ... but they could be felt ... in this moment ... this brief moment in the truth and the light where it all felt clear while none of it made any bit of sense ... and in this blissful confusion of delight ... he turned to Kyaw ... and he saw him in a new light ... an angel, a beautiful living breathing thing ... delicate, vulernable, sweet, innocent, dear, lovely, beautiful ...
250 ... as the light shinned so prettily on him ... he heard himself say ... though it felt like words from someone else ... "I'm really glad ... I met you ..." and then he put his paw on Kyaw's and found himself leaning in ... in slow motion ... like in a dream ... "I am too" he heard Kyaw say. And then he felt himself drifting into Kyaw and wrapping his arms around him ...
251 No wait ... not drifting, he was ... floating. He was a floating in the middle of the air. The waterfall had seemingly stopped moving. Where was Kyaw. He was above him, putting his paw out. "Come on" Kyaw said. Sven drifted himself upwards and the two held paws. They floated up as they slowly spun about. "This is amazing" Sven said. Their eyes met. They drew closer ... and closer ... their muzzles getting ever closer ... oh my sweet Kyaw he thought ... Sven closed his eyes and drew himself in ... and then ...
252 "Sven, are you alright?" Kyaw suddenly said shaking his friend awake. "Huh?" Sven said looking around confused. He'd drifted off to sleep? He was still sitting there with his legs folded. "I think you went in deep. You might have been having an out of body experience. You weren't responding at first". "Oh ... really ... huh ... uh ... that was strange" Sven said sounding a bit concerned.
253 "It happens" said Kyaw knowingly as he leaned back and smiled. "Don't worry about it. You were probably just tired and overwhelmed. It was your first time after all, wasn't it?"
254 "First time? First time what?" Sven said a little concerned. "Communing with the spirits of nature. I was afraid the first time. But momma and aunt Agie assured me it was perfectly normal. They called it a peak experience. It happens from time to time when many important things happen all at once. It just means your headed down the right path."
255 "Uh ... maybe. I don't know. Sometimes I really wonder ..." Sven said unsure of himself once again. He was back to his old self it seemed. The glow was gone and things seemed mundane again. What was that? Had Kyaw bewitched him or something? Sven didn't want to think about it too much.
256 "That ... or we are just weak from not eating and running around hehe" Kyaw said giving Sven a little nudge. "That must be it." Sven tried to rationalize. "Well that's okay. I can share some cookies I have on me."
257 "You have cookies?" Sven perked up. Turns out he was a little hungry. "Yeah, I've got some Oreos. Here have one." Kyaw said handing him one. "Thanks" Sven said, and nibbled the cookie gingerly.
258 Sven smiled again as if he'd remembered something. "You know ... in case I didn't say it ... I'm really glad I met you Kyaw" Sven said facing the waterfall.
259 "I know, you said that before" Kyaw responded. "Huh?!" Sven sat up confused. "I did?!". "Uh huh ... while you were in that deep trance ..." Kyaw said nonchalantly. Sven began to blush unbearably. Was that image of Kyaw in the light ... a figment of his imagination? And if so ... what did that say about him ...
260 Sven quietly ate his cookies and tried not to look at Kyaw. He must have daydreamed him. That was too embarrassing. He'd never had any thought like that before ... except for girls. He had daydreams about girls, and dreams. Those embarrassed him too and he never would dare tell anyone about them ... but at least those were understandable ...
261 Sadly all the self doubt was flooding back to Sven and well ... let's just say he wasn't 'there' anymore. More lost in his worried thoughts.
262 "Welp come on. Time to move on. It's not polite to dwell too long in their domain" Kyaw said as he got up and dusted himself off.
263 "Where are we going now?" Sven said getting up and dusting himself off as well.
264 "There is a path I know. It'll take us to an opening on the opposite end of the town. Then we can escape back to the Inn." Kyaw explained.
265 "Alright. Lead the way lil mate." Sven said patting his friend on the shoulders. At least Sven knew one thing. Kyaw was his friend now. That he was at peace with. And whatever weird feelings he did have, well, he would just keep them to himself. That, he could live with.
266 The boys set off away from the chasm deeper into the caverns. Little did they know however that Sigmund had been listening in. He'd heard them echoing from below, hiding up in his perch, a fenced area directly opposite of them. He'd seen Kyaw move out into the light to toss his whisker in, and heard some of their conversation. It sickened him, but he stuck around to find out what they'd do. But most importantly he'd heard where they were headed ... and he had a pretty good idea where that was ...
*18*
267 The boys continued deeper into the cavernous region, away from the column of light and snow falling down through the chasm.
268 Kyaw's nose twitcha-twitched as he would pause to look around and gain his bearings. "Uh ... this way ... wait no ... umm ... that way!". Everything looked kind of the same down there and Kyaw's eyes also had to adjust a bit to see better in the dark, despite the lamps that were sporadically placed about to offer visitors some light to navigate.
269 They walked up to a ledge when Kyaw made out a familiar natural bridge made of rock. "There!" he pointed. "We need to cross that bridge" he said. Kyaw then tried to figure out how to go around and find the bridge.
270 The ground was very uneven and there were many stalagmites to walk around, and it was dark, so the boys had to walk slowly and carefully not to stumble and injure themselves.
271 "Wait. So how do you know this place so well?" Sven inquired as they made their way around to the bridge. "I told you, me and Skipsy had three days to thoroughly explore everything. She likes doing this sorta thing. I've learned a lot about being a boy from her..." Kyaw said. "But she's a girl." Sven said flatly. "I know. But she just gets along better with boys, kinda like I get along better with girls. We help each other out in that way." Kyaw said.
272 "Oh there it is. Quick let's cross it." Kyaw said pointing ahead to the bridge.
273 Sven was a little apprehensive, but the bridge was made of solid rock several feet thick so there was no danger of it collapsing. The boys carefully kept their balance by spreading their arms out. It was not a long bridge and they found themselves on the other side in short order. Sven looked over the edge once and got a little freaked out, but the bridge was also wide, so it was impossible to fall off unless one was not paying any attention. None the less, he was relieved when they got to the other side. Kyaw went back to hunting around for the next landmark.
274 "So ... how come you guys were here so early? The Winter Solstice is tonight, and most furs are still just arriving." Sven prodded cautiously. Kyaw was only half paying attention as he climbed down and surveyed about. "Uh ... well ... Augie and Tabie wanted to get here early to set up the decorations ... I think it's this way ..." Kyaw said absently.
275 "That's what I thought. I think I saw some of them in the lunch hall." Sven said. "Uh huh." Kyaw responded nonchalantly. He was thinking of other things and only half paying attention. It hadn't occurred to him where the conversation was headed yet.
276 "But why all the weird Norse stuff. What has that got to do with Christmas? Isn't that gonna make furs ... I don't know ... mad?" Sven continued to push.
277 "Uh ... I guess ... but the flyer said it was open to all traditions did it not?" Kyaw began. "Well ... yeah." Sven said. "So there you go. And The Norse Gods have a lot to do with Christmas actually." Kyaw said matter of factly. "Come on, we've got to climb up this way" he added.
278 When thye got to the top Sven couldn't help replying "But it's christmas ... you know Christ mass ... it's in the name. It's about Christ and christianity, not ... uh ... norse-ology. Did they like copy christmas from the christians or something?"
279 "No silly. The christians were the one's that copied them! Who do you think Santa Claus is anyway?" Kyaw inquired. "Uh ... he was a Saint I think. That's what my mom told me." Sven offered. "Nope!" Kyaw replied with a satisfied tone, "Odin, The King of the Norss-gods, was the one who gave out the presents, riding his sleigh pulled by his eight-legged harse, Sleipnir. It's the spirit of Odin that visits us on the night of Christmas Eve. And that's not all! Most of the stuff we have like mistletoe, and holy, and wreaths, and christmas trees are of pagan and germanic origin. They were stolen and repackaged as a marketing gimmick. And it wasn't always called Christmas you know. That's just what they rebranded it as..." Kyaw said. Kyaw peaked around the corner and recognized something. "There ... that pillar with the lamps on it. I remember that ..." he said walking towards it.
280 "Oh really? Well ... if it wasn't always Christmas than what was it then?" Sven continued skeptically.
281 "Oh it went by many names Sven. To the Romans it was the Bacchanalia, a day of drunken reverie, a day to turn the order of the world on it's head. When peasants would be kings and kings peasants! To the Germanic furs it was the Yuletide Season, a time to tell ghost stories while the Yule log burned to bring about the rebirth of the sun, Sol Invictus they called it. That's actually what we are meant to celebrate tonight. When night falls they are going to burn the Yule log in the big fireplace." Kyaw said.
282 "I thought Yule was just another name for Christmas ... and isn't the sun going to come back regardless?" Sven sassed. "Well yeeeeah ... but it's symbolic Sven. It's the symbolic death and resurrection, it takes many forms, many symbols in many religions ..." Kyaw said. "It's up ahead follow me."
283 "Well yeah, that's because everyone was copying Yeshua and Yah-Hasha!" Sven said defensively. "No Sven, they just copied everyone else. It's all just symbolic Sven. You should study alchemy. It's all just about transmutation of the soul!"
284 "Well that's not what I was taught!" Sven said a little irritably. "Well ... maybe you need a new lesson." Kyaw said with a know-it-all tone that got on Sven's nerves.
285 "No no no. Kyaw, your just confusing everything and got it all backwards! Satan spread those false religions around and made them to mock christians. That's why they are so similar!" Sven retorted. It was really annoying to have everything he'd ever been taught dismissed so flippantly.
286 "Okay Sven, whatever you say. If you wanna la la la through your life then go right ahead. Anyway how bout we drop it. We're almost there!" Kyaw added.
287 "You know, this is why everybody thinks your family is weird! They act like they are so superior and then they go around trying to convince everyone that Christmas wasn't invented by Christians!" Sven fired back.
288 "Ugh!" Kyaw said throwing his head up in digust. "I didn't say they didn't invent Christmas, I said they stole stuff from utter holidays. You think no one had winter festivals before Yeshua and Yah-Hasha came around?"
289 "J-Just - just forget it!" Sven pouted. "What? What is it? Why does this bother you so much? What me and my family believe?!" Kyaw pressed.
290 "It doesn't! I don't really care what you and your family believes, but like, this is why I can't even introduce you to my family. Y'all just get off on making a scene. You try to force your beliefs on everyone and you just end up making furs dislike you. My family made a big deal about all the pagan statues in the lunch room. And I bet most of the furs going to this event are Christian and they aren't going to not like seeing them either!" Sven said and stopped himself.
291 "Well that's just too bad init! It's a Winter Festival Sven! It's not even a Christmas Celebration! An' me an' my family have just a-much a-right to participate wid our traditions as anyone else. That's what it says on the flyer! All traditions welcome!" Kyaw defended.
292 "Well yeah, but within reason. Stuff furs already celebrate, not random pagan god!"
293 "Oh goddess give me strength" Kyaw said as he face palmed. "It's all pagan Sven. All of it!"
294 "I get it now. I know what this is really all about!" Kyaw said with his arms folded.
295 "Oh really? What's this all about then Kyaw? Since your so smart!" Sven said back.
296 "It's about you! You are ashamed of me! You want me and my family to tone it down so you don't have to feel so ashamed being my friend. Isn't that it Sven?" Kyaw accused.
297 " ... n-no ..." Sven tried to deny, "I'm just saying - you guys could - maybe make things a little easier for yourse-" Sven began. "You. You mean easier for YOU." Kyaw cut him off.
298 Sven could say nothing and just shrugged. " ... I guess" is all he could finally add.
299 "Sigh ... this is what I'm talkin' ah-bout. You care too much what furs think and say. You already admitted you don't care yourself, yet you feel like you can't let your family know who I am and who my family is. Well Sven ... I guess - I guess I'll just go then and save you the trouble!" and with that Kyaw crouched down under a low hanging ceiling and disappeared under it.
300 "Wait! Kyaw? Is that even safe?! Where are you going?!" Sven said concerned. "Oh fiddle sticks! Just leave me alone. Find your own way out if you don't like it!" he heard Kyaw say. It sounded like there was a large opening on the other side. "Wait - Wait!" Sven quickly said as he got down and began crawling under the low ceiling. It was terrifying but he was desperate not to lose Kyaw. "Why do you have to be like this! Why you got to be such a girl about EVERYTHING!" Sven shouted in exasperation.
301 "Just leave me alone. You clearly don't like anything me or my family stands for so just go away. Then you won't have to trouble yourself with me ever again! Hmph!" Kyaw said.
302 "... rabbits ..." Sven grumbled under his breath as he tried to crawl to the other side. Sven finally managed to reach the other end and got up to see the low ceiling open up to another large area. It had two pillars of rock surrounded by a beautiful array of lamps, but he had larger concerns at the moment. He scanned about to find Kyaw when he noticed him already ascending a set of creaky wooden platforms and stairs weaving back and forth, clearly leading upwards and probably out of the cave. Sven started climbing up the stairs and follow Kyaw. Kyaw wasn't even looking back at him, and Sven was becoming increasingly desperate to get his attention.
303 "Oh come on Kyaw! Don't be like that! I never said I wanted to you go away!" Sven begged.
304 "might as well have!" was all Kyaw could say as he continued to march up and away from Sven.
305 "Well I didn't!" Sven said defensively. "I never said I didn't want to be your friend. Can you please stop being mad at me, I hate when you get this way with me!" Sven begged as he tried to catch up to his friend, or at least, whom he hoped was still his friend anyway.
306 Kyaw wasn't stopping, he just continued to climb. "Did I really offend you that badly? I'm sorry Kyaw! Look I admit it! I was wrong about you, okay? Me and my friends, you are right, we all thought you were a loser, a weirdo. But I don't think that anymore. I see now. You are brave. You are clever. I'm sorry we all made fun of you back in Kindergarten!" Sven continued.
307 Kyaw kept walking up those steps, but now it was more because he wanted to hear what Sven had to say. He had to admit, Sven's words were starting to butter him up, but if he let up maybe Sven would stop pouring out his heart, and he desperately needed to hear that he was needed.
308 "Can you please stop walking away and just talk to me! Kyaw please don't end it like this." Sven pleaded as he stumbled up the steps. He'd never thought Kyaw would just up and abandon him, and suddenly he found himself willing to spill his guts just not to lose him. There was no one here to here his confession.
309 Sven took a deep breath and prepared himself mentally. "Kyaw LISTEN TO ME!" he shouted as loud as he could. Kyaw despite his better judgement stopped in his tracks to hear Sven's plea. He refused however to turn around and show him his face. Kyaw would not betray his full feelings, not this time, and depending on Sven's answer, maybe never again ...
310 Sven's tone softened seeing that his words were having an effect. "Kyaw. Listen. I like you, I really do. I don't know why I like you, but I do. You are so much fun to be around and, it's crazy, I never know what is going to happen next, but it's exciting and I really like you for some reason ..." Sven hoped that would be enough. Surely that was enough. Did he really have to admit more?
311 Kyaw just stood there silently, at least as far as Sven could tell this his back turned. Was Kyaw just asking for more pain? Should he just steal his resolve and keep going forward? Could he ever truly be accepted as a boy?
312 Sven became increasingly worried and frantic. He'd fucked up. Oh shit had he fucked up. Was this it? Was he really going to lose his one real friend? The only one he could be completely himself with?! Tears began to form in his eyes despite his best efforts not to get emotional over ... over something so silly. This boy was the last boy to make friends with, why was he so desperate for his approval. The inner turmoil was reaching a boiling point.
313 Kyaw had waited enough. He couldn't take it anymore either. He started to walked back up the steps towards the light.
314 "Wait!" Sven shouted out, barely choking down a tear. "Kyaw, I don't want to lose you! Please don't stop being my friend!" Sven pleaded desperately. Kyaw began to tear, but still he kept trying to push himself forward. "You're special to me. I know it doesn't make sense but don't end it this way. I want to be your friend and be there for you. You - you're the first furson whose ever said they like like me." Sven said, hardly believing it himself, what he was saying. But there it was.
315 Kyaw stopped himself to simply say, "I doubt that...". "Huh?" was Sven's confused upset response. "I doubt that Sven. I doubt I'm the first." Kyaw lamented sadly. It took a moment for the words to sink in for Sven. Did that mean, some girls actually liked him. He rubbed the tears out of his eyes and gathered his thoughts. "What I mean is ... you are the first furson whose ever told me that to my face". Kyaw could help but starting to tear up himself. "Yeah ... well ... maybe I shouldn't have. Maybe I should have kept it to myself"
316 "But - I'm glad you did. It's something I needed to hear from someone. I didn't think anyone did." Sven smiled through his tears.
317 "hmph ... shows how much you know." Kyaw said despondently as he kicked some peddles fitfully. He didn't know what to do himself. His better judgement told him to try to end things now and not get hurt later, but Sven's sweet voice beckoned, and Kyaw knew his words and tears were coming from a sincere place and that meant a lot to him. "Do - do you still think I'm a weirdo?" Kyaw finally said, refusing to look back and let Sven off the hook yet, despite his heart beginning to betray his intentions.
318 "I mean you're different, no arguing that! Heh heh!" Sven laughed the way one laughs after one has been crying, but then his tone became more soft and serious. "But I wouldn't call you a weirdo ... not now. Not after knowing you. That sounds mean, and that's not how I feel. I like you a lot Kyaw. You're the best friend I've ever had." and with that Sven finally smiled unreservedly up towards the dear little bunny.
319 Kyaw smiled to himself but refused to turn around and reveal that to Sven. "You really mean that?" Kyaw couldn't help asking.
320 "Yeah I do." Sven said sweetly. "Then why couldn't you say my name?" Kyaw asked.
321 "What are you talking about?" Sven replied. "On the cliff. You avoided saying my name. And why does your older brother keep calling me Kevin?" Kyaw pressed. "Oh ... uh ..." Sven didn't have an answer to that one, or rather, he did but he wasn't about to say it.
322 "You haven't told your family my real name have you. You made up a fake name . Is that it Sven?" Kyaw continued to press.
323 "Look Kyaw" Sven began. "Is it true?" Kyaw demanded. Sven paused and finally relented. "Yes ..."
324 He continued, "... but this was a long time ago, when I wasn't so sure about things, and well, it kind of just kept going. You know the reputation you have. Everyone has heard of the 'ballerina boy'."
325 "So you made up a name so that no one would figure out you were friends with the 'famous' Kyaw bits. Is that it?" Kyaw said sadly.
326 "I couldn't risk them finding out your real name." Sven said plainly. "And that is why you have never introduced me to your family..." Kyaw said disappointed.
327 " Oh Kyaw. Can't you just understand things from my point of view? I have friends, I'm well liked, furs look up to me, I don't want to lose that ... but ... I don't want to lose you either. Can't we just keep our friendship a secret? No one needs to know. It doesn't mean I don't like you." Sven tried to reassure.
328 Kyaw couldn't contain himself anymore more, he turned around to show tears of rage. "I get it Sven. It's very nice that you like me, but how do you think that makes me feel? Everyone rejects me without even knowing me! And here you are, and you say you know better, but you are unwilling to try and change anyfur's mind! You say your well liked, well maybe furs would listen to you if you spoke up for me more. Instead of just hiding that we are friends!"
329 "Kyaw, I can't magically change everyfurs mind. They only like me because - because -" Sven realized he couldn't say it outloud.
330 "Because you don't try to, I get it. 'Cause you just go along with what everyone else does. And I don't and that's why no body likes me, right?" Kyaw said clenching his fists in frustration.
331 "Well ... I mean you could at least just try to fit in, you know. See how it goes?" Sven said with an apologetic shrug.
332 "UGH! I HAVE BEEN TRYING! I wore this coat because of you. My whole family wanted me to wear a pretty Christmas dress for the Winter Salstace, and I kept saying no. And they were all disappointed cause they said I would look all pretty and darling. And you know why I refused?" Kyaw shouted.
333 Sven shrugged. "To make you happy Sven! To make you like me! Maybe I am just a stupid 'girl', and I guess you don't like girls, so just stick to your boy friends." Kyaw said in a huff, and started walking back up the steps.
334 This got Sven a bit miffed. "They're my FRIENDS Kyaw! FRIENDS! Not my BOYFRIENDS! Maybe you 'GIRLS' have GIRLFRIENDS, but us boys don't have boyfriends! Got it?!". That stung, but Kyaw was not without some sense of pride, and he just felt more angered by the comment than anything.
335 "Well then, maybe I don't want to be a BOY if - if all the rules are so STUPID!"
336 "KYAW!" Sven shouted up at him. "WHAT?!" Kyaw said turning around to face him once more. "But you are a BOY! Just the way you are! Forget all these boy rules, alright? No one can take that away from you if you don't let them! And you don't need to change anything for me. What I mean is ... don't decide who to be on account of me. Or anyone for that matter." Sven pleaded.
337 Kyaw appreciated those words, but was still conflicted. "I gotta go Sven. I should get back to my family anyway." he said.
338 "But ... we didn't even get to go sledding. That's what we did all this for? You want to quit now." Sven tried to reason. Kyaw thought about that for a moment. Then he turned around. "Here." he said, and tossed the car keys back to Sven. "Those belong to you. Bye Sven. I should go now" Kyaw said as he started to hop up towards the fading morning light.
339 "Wait Kyaw, don't go. Don't give up! Let's forget about all this and just have a nice time together. That's all I wanted. I just wanted us to sleigh together, just the two of us. None of this other stuff matters." Sven said as he chased after Kyaw. But Kyaw was already gone, and turned the corner out into the afternoon light ...
*19*
340 The next thing Sven heard was Kyaw falling over into the snow and his brother laughing.
341 "Kyaw! Are you alright." he said as he helped Kyaw get up. His face was covered in snow. "I'm alright Sven. It's okay." Kyaw tried to reassure even though his eyes were all red and he looked cold.
342 "HA HA HA! I got you good FAGBIT!" gloated Sigmund standing at the top of the hill. There was a large opening covered in snow leading down into the caverns they had just come from.
343 Sven got mad and shouted, "WHY CAN'T YOU JUST LEAVE HIM ALONE! HE HASN'T DONE ANYTHING TO YOU!" up at his brother.
344 "Pah! That little pansy bit my ankle. Can't fight with his fists so he resorts to using his teeth like an animal!" Sigmund said folding his arms. "And don't think you're off the hook either Sven. You lied to mom and dad and you kicked me in the head. I can still feel it, but don't worry you'll get yours next ... but first ... hey FAGBIT give me back those keys!"
345 "Stop calling him that Lardass!" Sven shot back.
346 "Oh ho ho ... that really stings lil bro" Sigmund said Sarcastically. "But it ain't gonna save neither of ya!". And with that Sigmund started marching down the hill. Hopping with his kangaroo legs and making surprisingly quick work of it despite his large size. If anything it made him more intimidating as he took a lot of snow down with him. It looked like a large bolder coming for them. Even Sven was a little intimidated.
347 "Run Kyaw, he's after you" he said as he tried to push Kyaw away. "No Sven, follow me, we can still lose him" Kyaw pleaded and pulled at his arm desperately. "No. Just run away. I can hold him off and convince him we are done. Then he will leave you alone" Sven said. Kyaw continued to pull but it was no use. Sven seemed determined to end this and protect his friend. "We can't escape Kyaw. We've been trying all day! Just trust me!"
348 The boys were still struggling when Sigmund came barreling down towards them. Kyaw refused to let go of Sven, despite Sven's best efforts to push him away for his own good.
349 Sigmund wasted no time. While the boys struggled he grabbed Kyaw by the ears and pulled as hard as he could "OW! OW! OW!" Kyaw shouted. "Give me the fucking keys you little piece of shit!"
350 Sven felt a flush of rage flash through his whole body like he'd never felt before. He didn't even say anything. He grabbed Sigmunds arm that was pulling on Kyaw's ears with both of his arms for balance and then he launched into kick after kick after kick right in Sigmund's gut with all his strength! "LET HIM GO! LET HIM GO! LET HIM GO!" he kept repeating, while kicking his kanga legs like a machine gun, one kick for each word! Sigmund was caught off guard by the speed and furiosity of his little brothers blows. He let go to put his paws around his stomach. He collapsed to his knees.
351 "I've got the keys Sig. Here See!" Sven took them out of his pocket to prove it. "So leave him out of it. I mean it Sig! He's my friend and you are NOT going to hurt him! Not if I can help it!" Sven said.
352 Sigmund scowled. He was pissed now. "That does it. I'm beating the shit outta you first Sven, I don't care what mom and dad do to me after!", and when he looked up Sven momentarily felt a shiver of fright run down his spine. The look on Sigmund's face said it all, he was done, playing, he was out for blood.
353 Kyaw seeing Sven frozen in fear, grabbed him. "Come on let's go!"
354 Kyaw lead Sven back to the stairs they'd just left, but this time they were going to climb further up. There was a inclined path upwards. "We gotta climb!" Kyaw said as he scrambled upwards. Sigmund was right behind them and he was mad.
355 When they got to the top Kyaw looked around confused. "Shoot! Where is it!" he said. "Uh Kyaw my brother is right behind us!" Sven said concerned. "There was a little gap right here, where'd it - SVEN - we got to dig through the snow, hurry!". There had been a snow-in and the exit Kyaw had counted on had gotten plugged. The two boys frantically dug through the snow until some daylight peaked through. It led directly to the top of the hill! Then Sven started shoving Kyaw through to safety. Sigmund scrambled as quick as he could up the ledges. He wasn't as good at climbing up as climbing down, but he was nearly there all the same. Kyaw offered his paw to pull Sven through.
356 Sven was only about halfway through when Sigmund got a hold of one of his feet. "Imma kill you Svy!" Sigmund said as he desperately tried to get a good grip and pull his brother through to the other side. Sven kept squirming about and kicking when he could to get himself free. Kyaw tried to pull with all his strength but he couldn't seem to get a firm grip either.
357 It was then that Sigmund grabbed a hold of Sven's tail and he started getting pulled back inside. "NO! SVEN!" Kyaw said desperately trying to hold on. "It's alright. Imma turn around and I need you to push me through." Sven said. "What?" Kyaw exclaimed. Sven smiled and that let Kyaw know he had an idea. Sven flipped himself over putting his legs atop. When Kyaw pushed Sven through Sigmund suddenly found himself falling over backwards, meanwhile Sven slid through the hole like a bobsledder!
358 As Sven sped into his brother's gut, he used his powerful legs to rebound off of him which sent Sigmund into a tumble. Sigmund realized he was about to fall so he let go of Sven's tail and Sven bounced off his stomach. Sigmund had to use his paws to stop himself from slipping all the way down and getting seriously hurt. Meanwhile Sven had leaped all the way back to the hole. He quickly crawled through it before Sigmund could get back his bearings.
359 When Sigmund did finally get back turned around and hastily crawled on his paws and knees to grab Sven's tail again, all he snatched was empty air as Kyaw pulled him safely to the other side.
360 "Fuckin'-fuck-fucks" Sigmund grunted in annoyance as he tried to scramble through the hole only to find it was too tight a squeeze for him. "ARG!" he shouted in annoyance as he tried to force the snow ice and dirt out of his way, struggling mightily against it all. Nothing, and I mean nothing was going to stop him wringing both their scrawny little necks at this point!
361 "Crap! He's gonna make it through!" Sven said as he watched his brother force himself with all his strength. "This way!" Kyaw instructed.
362 They climbed up the snowy hill where they'd first seen Sigmund standing. Once atop they could see the ski lift off to the right. Sven looked up momentarily towards the high mountain cliff where the lift made a brief pass over. "Sven what are you doing, come this way!" Kyaw said as he pulled him to their left. A lamppost marked yet another area for visitors to explore.
363 They quickly running down a set up steps and finding themselves in a region that had many openings in the ceiling, letting in big piles of snow. They used their roo and rabbit instincts to quickly hop through it. This was no time for gingerly going about on twos ... this was serious business.
364 "How are we gonna lose him?!" Sven demanded. "I gotta plan!" Kyaw reassured. "Another one?! Cause those - huff - have worked out - huff - so brilliantly - huff - thus far!" Sven said sarcastically. "Oh hush - huff - you!" Kyaw replied.
365 Sven could hear some younger kits playing above their heads and noticed some snowballs being chucked as he looked up through the gaps in the ceiling towards the bright blue sky, but he only had a moment to notice this before he was focusing on what was ahead as the two of them leapt down deeper into the caverns.
366 Meanwhile Sigmund had managed to wiggle himself free already, and was already tracking their tracks over to the lamppost. He caught a glimpse of them running down as there was an opening that showed the area below.
367 Sven looked behind him. "Where do you think my brother is?" he asked, just as they ran out into a large empty area. "I don't know, just come on." Kyaw said as the boys slowed down to catch their breaths.
368 They found themselves at the bottom of that valley Sven had noticed earlier when they'd first passed by this area. It was beautiful, especially with the snow coming gently down all around them from that twilight sky. Unfortunately they didn't have much time to appreciate the view. "We got to do this quick. Follow me!"
369 Kyaw had both of them hop all the way to the end of the Valley, creating tracks and then walk back to their own tracks to a large bolder in the middle of the valley. As they did this they didn't know they were being tentatively watched by some curious little eyes who found themselves amused.
370 Kyaw then instructed Sven to climb the rock with him just as they both heard "Where are you twerps!" as Sigmund rounded the corner into the valley.
371 The boys took cover behind the bolder and crouched down behind it so they were out of sight. "Shhhh!" Kyaw whispered to Sven. Sven decided to hold Sven tight in his arms. Perhaps he felt instinctively a need to protect him. Whatever the reason, Kyaw didn't complain and happily sit perfectly still in Sven's lap as they held their breath hoping their ruse would work.
372 "Hey ... you cupcakes know you can't hide from me right? I can see your fucking tracks in the snow. There is no way you can get away, so you might as well accept your asswhoppings. Surrender now and maybe I'll have some mercy on you." Sigmund shouted out, hoping they'd make his job easier. No such luck. "Hmph" grunted Sigmund. He'd just have to smoke 'em out himself.
373 Sigmund was just passing the bolder when Kyaw tried to take a peak out and had to pull back and hide. Kyaw gripped Sven's paw a little tighter to let him know that Sigmund was right there. Sven laid his head atop Kyaw to let him know he was safe and that he'd always love and protect him, even if he couldn't bring himself to say that outloud.
374 Sigmund was a little suspicious of the tracks but none the less he took the bait and kept following them past the bolder, trying to make sense of them.
375 Kyaw double tapped Sven's arms to let him go. Sven let go and Kyaw peaked around the corner to see Sigmund was facing towards the dead end, about to discover the end of the tracks. Kyaw quickly ran back and grabbed Sven's paw. "Time to go." he whispered.
376 So far the diversion had worked. Now all they had to do was climb out of the valley on the other end before Sigmund started heading back this way. If this didn't work Kyaw had no other ideas left for how they could lose them. He'd used every resource he'd known of to try and make an escape and give Sigmund the slip up, but everytime he'd proven too daring too determined and too smart to be completely stopped by it. He'd climbed out of the pit he'd gotten him to jump down. He'd crawled through the hole he'd got him stuck in. Would he be able to get him going around in circles in the Valley while they made their escape? He hoped so!
377 Kyaw had them walk back over their own tracks they'd walked in with. He'd also created a little loop on the other side to further confuse him. Now it was time to make their escape with Sigmund hopefully none the wiser. Both of them nodded as they held their paws together. They knew what they had to do. With that they got all the spring in their legs to jump them all the way from the snow up to a rocky ledge on the other end where they were prepared to climb out.
378 At that moment Sigmund had reached the far end of the valley and saw that the footprints looped around back to around to join back with the path. "Pah! They went over their own tracks, think they're so clever!" Sigmund said dismissively. Still he needed to figure out where they disappeared to. He surveyed the area trying to guess what trick they might have pulled when he got up on his tippy toes and noticed the large bolder around the corner. "Ha! They're hiding behind the bolder!" he said to himself with a wicked smile.
379 By this point the boys had nearly climbed out of the valley. They were long gone from the bolder and now it was a clear run out of there and to safety!
380 When they got nearly to the top they saw a pair of twin kitten, twittens, as their family liked to call them, staring at them with big round eyes. They'd been watching them this whole time. "Uh ... hello." Sven said not sure how to feel about this turn of events.
381 The Twittens looked at each other, and a little sneaky smile creeped up their faces. "HEY MISTER THEY'RE OVER HERE!" the twittens shouted in unison. 'Great! Kittens man. Born trouble makers', Sven thought crossly to himself. Sigmund hearing that quickly bounded over to see the boys nearly at the top of the cliff. "CRAP!" Sven shouted in annoyance. The twittens giggled in amusement. They were both three, and it was all just fun and games to them, so you'll have to forgive them.
382 "Come on let's just get out of here!" Kyaw said as the both of them tried to scramble to quickly finish their climb. Sigmund was there in a jiffy it seemed, and already making quick work of the cliff. At every turn Sigmund was better, faster, stronger, and smarter, than them. What chance did two six year olds have against a twelve year old? They were doomed! There was no way they could get out of this without a thwamping!
383 That's when Sven got an idea! "Hey, you see that big boy down there little kittens?" he said to the twittens. "He's fat and smelly. You should throw snowballs at him! Hey I bet one of you could even knock him off! It can be a game!" Sven said enthusiastically. The Twittens looked at each other again, and another little devious grin crossed their faces. They started gathering snow as Sven helped Kyaw up the last step.
384 Just then Sven got a snowball in the back. "hehe" one of the twittens giggled. It was Billie. The Twittens were rascally twin boys named Billie and Alec, and their folks like to call them Silly Billie and Smarty Alec respectively. "Hey! I meant him not me!" Sven said as he pointed down at his skeezy half-brother still scaling the cliff. "Come on Billie. Let's see who can get him to fall off first!" said Alec, and with that the Alec tossed down a snowball onto Sigmunds face, a surprisingly good shot for such a young age. "Hey! This doesn't concern you whiskers!" shouted Sigmund.
385 Well that did it! The two little twittens got to work pelting Sigmund with snow in rapid fire taking turns as they tossed them down. "Hey! HEY! KNOCK THAT OFF YOU PIPSQUEAKS!" Sigmund shouted even louder trying his best to intimidate them into compliance, but this just of course encouraged them further and they enjoyed the reactions. They giggled and snickered and found it all quite hilarious. Naughty little kittens, and worst yet, they definitely had their mittens!
386 The boys quickly made a run for it. They ran careful to make their way around the holes in the ceiling they'd just walked under. Sigmund was slowed down by being pelted by snow in his face, but not deterred. He continued to make his way up the cliff, slowly and carefully.
387 When he got to the top he did not hesitate to push the little silly billie down. "Hey, that's my brotha!" little smarty Alec shouted as he bit Sigmund's ankle drawing blood. "AH! Git off!" he said and flicked him off with a little kick. Alec landed in the snow a few feet away. Both of them cried as Sigmund heartlessly marched on to create even more misery. Nothing was going to stop him. Not a bunch of snot nosed brats anyway.
388 Kyaw and Sven had stopped to catch their breaths when Sven heard the crying twittens. There was Sigmund marching towards them like an unstoppable beast, like the god damned terminator. Was there no way to stop this menace?!
389 "Good lord. He's STILL after us! You got any more bright ideas?!" Sven demanded as Kyaw panted desperately trying to catch his breath. "That - was - the - last - one - I - had!" he panted out.
390 "Given up twerps?" Sigmund said as he closed the distance. "Finally realized it's hopeless? Guess it's payback time!" he said rolling up his sleeves.
391 Great! The light was fading fast and so were their chances of escape. They were doomed!
*20*
392 Kyaw panted and panted. He wasn't used to having to run around this much. "Sven - I don't think I can keep going much longer -" Kyaw said with a tone of desperation. This was bad!
393 Sven looked around to some idea some plan of what they could do next. His eyes were once again drawn to the Ski Lift that loomed large in thier line of line. Again he was drawn to the precarious peak the ski lift perched itself on before beginning it's slow descent to the drop-off point. He gulped as he realized what they had to do. "That's it! It's the only way. Come on!" Sven said as he pulled Kyaw up. "Wha? Where are we going now?" Kyaw said weakly. "I've got a plan! Trust me! Hehe" Sven smiled. " - okay" Kyaw said as he got up to his feet.
394 "Hey! Where do you think you punks are going! Get back here!" Sigmund shouted as he started to walk faster. "We gotta make a run for it." Sven warned his friend. "I know" Kyaw smiled. And with that they made one last desperate sprint with Sven leading the way, but it didn't take long for Kyaw to realize they were running towards the Ski Lift.
395 It seemed hopelessly far away until they got over the hill and saw the little terminal station not but 40 feet away. It was such a relief to their eyes to realize how close they were.
396 "Hey! Stop running away! You got no where to run to you lil ijits!" Sigmund shouted as he tried to push himself to keep chasing after them. The truth was though, he was becoming tired himself. He wasn't used to expending this much energy either. The only one who still had stamina left was Sven. He had a lot of practice running rounding those bases he was known for, that and pitching a mean fast one.
397 At this point Sven was pulling Kyaw by the arm as Kyaw was panting with his tongue out. Kyaw was beginning to taste the blood in his mouth with all the bitter cold quickly going in and out of his lungs.
398 Working both in their favor and too their disadvantage was getting across high snow again, with it slowing down both Sigmund and them. Still they all pushed themselves to keep going, with Sigmund and Sven the most determined at this point to see this through to the end.
399 It seemed to take a while, time seemed to be going too fast with the sun now beginning to go down and the sky becoming golden soon to be a deep wintery dark blue, but Sven and Kyaw finally made it up the steps. There was no time to lose. Sigmund would be there at any moment.
400 "We got to board" Sven said. The two boys ran to chase down the furthest cabin. They caught up to it, opened the door and got on just as Sigmund made his way up the steps to see them slip aboard. The little red cabin started to make it's ascent past the gates, just as Sigmund ran to the end and missed it.
401 Sven saw as they ascended leaving Sigmund just standing there at the gate annoyed. Sven looked out the window towards his brother and stuck out his tongue and pressed it to the window "Nah-nah-nah-nah-nah!" he teased as he put his thumbs in his ears and wiggled his mittens at him, showing him he'd had them all along! Sigmund narrowed his eyes in resentment. He hated that little stringbean of a brother.
402 Kyaw was laying on the floor plopped up on the side catching his breath. "Sven - those windows are filthy - don't stick - your tongue - out on them!" Kyaw managed to get out. "Oh! Now whose being all proper!" Sven said with a grin. "heh" Kyaw said as he managed to crack a smile.
403 Sigmund wasn't down for the count yet though. He waited patiently for the next cabin to swing around and boarded without hesitation. He stood at the window and looked up towards his pesky little brother from below. Sven looked down at him with a look of disdain. Such mean spiritedness. Such cruelty. Had ... Sven been that way? Towards Kyaw and furs like Kyaw? Maybe he'd not been that much different teasing and mocking 'sissies' with his friends. Maybe Sven felt a little bit of hatred of himself in that moment. I - I don't want to be that fur anymore. He turned around to look back at Kyaw and he simply smiled. Kyaw looked up at him and he smiled back. They didn't need to say anything. They felt it, with their eyes and their smiles.
404 Sven got down from his perch, out of the view of his brother. "Where's he going?" thought Sigmund as he could no longer see either of the boys in the cabin. But it didn't matter. They were going to the same place. The Cabin ride was slow but when they got where they were going the chase would be on again, they'd only won themselves a momentary reprieve. Sigmund was prepared to chase them to the ends of the earth. He got himself comfortable and sat in the back with his legs crossed and his arms behind him. All he needed now was a little patience.
405 Sven got down and sat next to Kyaw. He cupped his paw with his mittens and smiled. He just wanted to be close to him in this moment. No more being afraid all the time. He pressed against Kyaw affectionately and pressed his cheek against Kyaw's. Kyaw rested his head on Sven. He was so happy in this moment. Kyaw gripped Sven's paw a little firmer. And there they quietly sat holding hands as they slowly gained elevation and the sun slowly lost it every second.
406 "Sven. I just wanna say, I - I'm sorry about the way I talked to you earlier. Actions speak louder than words and I see now ... you truly do -" Kyaw began to say. "Shhhh ..." Sven said as he put his fingers to Kyaws lips. Then Sven turned to Kyaw's ear and whispered. "Don't say it ... somethings are better left unsaid.". Then he gave Kyaw's paw a little squeeze and he kissed Kyaw on the cheek. "... and you're welcome". And with that he snuggled up next to Kyaw and stared up at the twilight sky. Both boys smiled and settled in. They were tired and they felt comfortable and warm next to each other. Kyaw was right. Sometimes words just get in the way. Sometimes you just need to feel things and enjoy the moment...
407 Sigmund was getting impatient as they slowly made there way up to the steep cliff. He couldn't wait to get his hands around the necks. The only question was which first! His obnoxious little usurping brother or the twatty lil fagbit! "Decisions decisions" he grinned to himself. Perhaps his hatred was his only real joy in life, and perhaps that calls more for pity than malice at the end of the day ... what say ye?
408 "So ..." Kyaw began sleepily cuddled into Sven's neck, "what's our next move?"
409 "We're going to get out of the cabin when we hit the peak and take another cabin back down." Sven said nonchalantly. "ARE YOU CRAZY!" Kyaw got up and shouted. Sven just looked up at his friend and smiled a cocky smile. Then he gave Kyaw a playful little shove to the shoulder. "Oh you're one to talk! After everything you put me through? Haha!" he said. "Okay, okay, guess you got me there. Let's just try not to die, okay?" Kyaw said.
410 Another minute went by before Sven poked his head up to the window to see that they were nearly there. Seeing that peak though freaked him out. Gulp. Maybe this wasn't such a great idea.
411 "Uh ... maybe this wasn't such a hot idea." Sven said. "Oh come on. Don't tell me you're getting cold feet now when you've taken us this far!" Kyaw replied. Sven and his big mouth. Well alright. If that was how Kyaw was going to play it Sven would just have to follow through with his plan.
412 "Fine. Let's go then." Sven said moving over to the door on the right side of the cabin, not the one they came from but the other one. He peeked through the door window until the cabin just began to coast over the cliff edge. "Now!" He shouted and opened the door. The rush of cold fresh air in high up in the mountains with a clear shot of the vastness of their surroundings was terrifying and he was momentarily stunned, but this was no time to wait around. They only had a brief window to get off. "Go!" Kyaw insisted. "Hold my hand." He said as he gripped Kyaw's paw. "We jump together on three. One. Two. THREE!". Sven had to close his eyes, ill advised as that is, but he was able to take that leap of faith on to the snowy mountain top ... a small area surrounded by a thousand foot drop on every side!
413 They slid a little forward due to the momentum, but with the both of them holding their hands together they were able to slow themselves against the snow pretty quickly. They were far enough that Sigmund wouldn't see them up there until his cabin passed by. Now for the really scary part. One maybe too dangerous for either of them. They needed to snag a cabin car on the return trip on the opposite side.
414 "I can't believe I'm doing this" Sven said barely holding it together. It was cold up here. Really cold. That certainly didn't help with his nerves, but how could he protect Kyaw if he couldn't be at least as brave as him. And they were in danger up here. They had no choice now but to get on that car. What was the other option? Wait to be rescued? Wait to be seen by Sigmund?
415 "That one! We're getting on that one!" Sven said pointed at a cabin car approaching the peak. He said it without thinking about it, because if he thought about it for more than one second his voice would have faltered and he'd have given himself away. Being a boy was pretending to be brave even when he was not. Not to show off, not to be better than everyone else, but so others could depend on them. Kyaw might not exactly be scared but Sven had to at least show him that he could be brave too. Just once he wanted to have courage like Kyaw. Sven couldn't believe what he was saying, but it was true! He wanted to learn to be courageous like Kyaw, a sissy no less, but a sissy with a heart of gold and a will of steel.
416 Sven lead the charge to the other side of the precipice as the car got frighteningly within reach. It was frightening because they'd only have one chance to get this right. "My hero!" Kyaw said admiringly. "Don't praise me yet!" Sven said still not sure of his capabilities despite the brave face he was trying to put on for his friend.
417 Sven realized he'd need a little runway, so he started to run towards the cabin car, pulling Sven along. "Wait Sven do you know what we're doing?" Kyaw said a little worried. "I sure as hell HOPE SO!" he said as he ran full speed towards the cabin, towards the very edge of the cliff. If he missed this they might very well slip and keep going off the edge of the mountain!
418 Sven eyes became laser focused on one point - The handle of the cabin door. He was going to grab it and let the car stop them. He'd slide the door open and then the car would drag them along. All they would need to do is catch up with it in time and hop in before they went over the edge. Heh. What could be easier? Well, maybe throwing a baseball into an empty soup can from 500 feet away, but that was beside the point!
419 Sven grabbed the handle, the door slid open, and suddenly the boys found themselves pulled to a full stop and whipped in the other direction!
420 The boys tried to outrun the cabin but were having trouble catching up. Kyaw just could not run that fast. There was only one way they were going to make it ...
421 "Kyaw jump my back!" Sven said. Kyaw took one little bunny leap onto Sven's back and Sven was off to the races bounding forward as fast as he could with his springy roo legs. The edge was rapidly approaching. There was no turning back now. They'd go over the cliff even if Sven put on the full breaks, unless they jumping into that cabin car!
422 With one last burst of speed Sven galloped a little to the right, as the door began to slowly close shut, caught up with the cabin and leaped into the cabin just the doorway was suspended in midair! The boys practically flew into that car and the thing bobbed back and forth a little as the door slid itself closed.
423 Both of them were collapsed to the floor spent, breathing heavily, letting their near brush with death sink in. "Let's never do that again..." Kyaw said. "Agreed" Sven said in accord.
424 Sven forced himself to get up and peak through the window. There was Sigmund's car passing by them, with him none the wiser. He'd sat himself in the back patiently waiting for the ride to end so he could chase after them on the other side of the mountain. He'd missed their death-defying leap! Sven slid down in relief. He wanted to cry, he wanted to laugh, he felt incredible joy, he felt like he was going insane. In the end he did a little bit of everything.
425 "hehe ... heh heh ... HA HA ... HAHAHA!" Sven began to laugh through his tears. "Sven, is everything alright!" Kyaw patting Sven leg in concern. Sven wiped away some tears and smiled. "Are you kidding! I've never been better. I can't believe I fucking did that! And Sigmund has NO FUCKING IDEA! HAHAHA!" Sven shouted.
426 "Wait ... really?" Kyaw said as he quickly looked out the window to see Sigmund just as he went over the cliff and out of sight. "Yeah really! He still thinks we are in the cabin up ahead! Man, that was insane, but I feel so amazing! WHOOOO!" Sven shouted and breathed a sigh of relief.
427 "That's the adrana-line. You should probably sit down and calm down." Kyaw said as he planted himself, legs crossed and arms out onto the chairs with the windows behind him showing the Rec Center and the beautiful sunset. "Alright" Sven said as he sat himself on the opposite side of the cabin, and admired the view. The outside view that is. But he couldn't help but take little furtive glances towards his friend sitting there. There was something weird about the way Kyaw was sitting. Something that invited the eyes attention. As if his body was giving him permission to approach. Sven had never seen it before. No girl had ever looked at him that way before. Kyaw for his part was very relaxed in this moment. His body felt squirmy and it craved contact from Sven. It's almost he instinctively wanted to reward Sven for protecting and rescuing him.
428 "Come sit next to me Sven" Kyaw said, patting the spot next to him invitingly. "Oh ... uh ... okay ... sure ... I guess that'd be okay." Sven said as he sheepishly went to the other side. He sat a respectful distance away and put his paws on his knees. It's like he was saying he wouldn't dare make a move on the rabbit.
429 Kyaw gave a momentary little scowl. He was displeased. But no matter. Kyaw knew what he wanted right now and wasn't shy about getting it. He scooted over until his bunny bun bumped into Sven's.
430 Then he put his arms around Sven's Chest and nuzzled his head into the shoulder of Sven's neck. "Oh hey ... uh ... hold on ... um ..." Sven stumbled with his words. "Sven, I'm cold and I'm tired. Just put your arms around me ... please" Kyaw said. "... um ... okay" Sven said deciding he didn't really want to protest anymore.
431 He put his arms around Kyaw's shoulders. He tried to quietly breath out a sigh of relief without making a sound. Could he ... put his hands where he wanted? Was Kyaw allowing him to touch him? Sven had his arm wrapped stiffly and awkwardly upon his shoulder. He began to relax it and move it gently down Kyaw's side. Kyaw instantly moved and shifted to allow Sven to move his paw further down. He knew exactly what Sven was doing and he was totally open to it.
432 Sven's hand continued down and Kyaw's fur was so incredibly soft and pleasant. Even under the layers of coat he could feel how soft and giving Kyaw's body was. Sven had never felt something quite so pleasant. He let his hand slide down and wander, pressing against Kyaw's soft belly fur and making it's way towards Kyaw's hips.
433 Sven's eyes were closed, as if somehow that kept the left side of his brain from knowing what the right side of his brain was up to! He sighed a pleasurable sigh of relief, and smiled. All the ache in his muscles from running about all day suddenly felt pleasant feeling up this soft and willing little bunny boy. Kyaw felt it too. He also sighed and nuzzled into Sven's firm and sturdy body, a pleasant sensation to the supple little rabbit in its own right. He felt safe in Sven's grasp and he was willing to let himself be Sven's plaything if it pleased him.
434 Dreamily Sven thought to himself, is this - what it feels like to hold a girl? Oh god ... it felt so good. And with that Sven couldn't help but move his hand down daring to feel the little nook where Kyaw's hip met his leg. Then he felt around the soft girth of Kyaw's hips. Bliss. His eyes began to flicker as if beginning to wake from a pleasant dream ...
435 When his eyes finally did open he saw an approaching cabin car on the opposite end full of a family of skiing skunkettes. A mother and her daughters, two teens, and a little girl around Sven's age. Sven was instantly mortified and quickly pulled away from Kyaw, causing him to fall over, and sat by himself with his paws on his knees like he did before. As if he was deathly ashamed, as if he felt as guilty as sin ... as the car passed by. The youngest girl in the opposite car took notice of the strange awkward shy boy. She gave him a little wave. Sven felt very awkward and he barely managed to raise his paw and twiddle his fingers in reply, mainly to be polite. He was blushing now something frightful, and felt a warm flush of guilt and shame over his whole body. He REALLY hoped none of those girls had seen what he was up to. His deathly intense fear of girls had also flared up again, and he once again felt ashamed for his inability to so much as give an enthusiastic wave back.
436 "Sven why did you move, you made me fall over!" Kyaw complained, apparently none the wiser. "UH ... the seat was really cold so I had to move." he hastily fibbed. "Really?" Kyaw said rubbing his paw where Sven had just been. "That's strange. Feels nice and warm to me." Kyaw said genuinely puzzled. Sven had to raise an eyebrow of skepticism. Was Kyaw really that naive? Smart in some ways but really dumb in others. Whatever, as long as it worked. "Huh, that's strange, guess it's a mystery. Maybe it was a draft, hehe" he said. That was dumb, what do you want to totally give yourself away. Why are you so insufferably awkward! Sven wanted to slap himself sometimes.
437 Kyaw started to move over to Sven again, crawling on all fours. "Come on Sven let's go back to the way we were, I was really feeling comfy". Sven felt that weird little tingle again as he saw Kyaw walking on all fours with his little bunny tail pointing up. Okay this was too much for Sven.
438 He shot up out of his seat and stood up at the far window. "We're almost at the station anyway, we should get ready to get off" he hastily said as he watched the approaching station, not daring to look at Kyaw and give himself away. He was flustered, he was afraid to let whatever THAT was happen again. Surely whatever he'd done was a sin. Not because Kyaw was a boy, but because he'd always been told to keep his hands to himself as a good little christian boy. It would have been just as bad, if not worse, if he'd felt up a girl like that. He couldn't even admit how much he liked how it felt. He was suppose to only have pure and loving thoughts. He was suppose to save himself for his future wife, and Kyaw MOST DEFINITELY could not be his future wife!
439 "Oh ... uh ... yeah ... I guess so" Kyaw said suddenly feeling insecure himself. Did he do something wrong? Did Sven not like him ... like that? Whatever that meant. Did he not want to hold him and touch him ... cause ... Kyaw was beginning to realize he sure wanted him too, for whatever reason. He'd been taught about consent, that everyone's body was their own, but he'd not been taught to feel ashamed about sharing affection with a willing companion. He was used to hugs whenever he wanted, from his mother and auntie and his cousins. He was very rarely told no, and even when he was told no it was usually because they were busy with something at the moment, and they'd give him a hug as soon as they could. He hugged his girlfriends all the time and it was never cause for discomfort. But Kyaw could tell Sven was uncomfortable and that made him feel bad. Maybe he'd been a little too forward. But he still wanted to be held.
440 Finally the cabin car came to an abrupt halt as it reached the starting point, the very place where they'd begun their journey. "Come on, let's go" Sven said still not looking at Kyaw. He sounded, disheartened, and confused, and Kyaw couldn't figure out why.
441 Sven slid open the door and Sven and Kyaw stepped out onto the station.
*21*
442 Sven looked over the fence and seemed to be contemplating something, though Kyaw knew not what. Why was Sven being so quiet all of a sudden, especially after having finally embracing him so unreservedly. Kyaw walked up behind and put his paw on top of Sven's. Sven retracted and looked at Kyaw. They didn't speak for a moment but it was Sven who broke the silence first.
443 "Kyaw ..." he began as if he was about to say something. "Yes?" Kyaw responded tentatively. "We - ... we should get moving, my brother is going to be heading back this way as soon as he figures out we weren't on that cabin. Come on!". "Right..." Kyaw said a little disappointed. Surely there was something else Sven had meant to say.
444 The boys left the station and began to make their way through the snow beneath the mountain. They were both quiet as they took in the sights. There was a bittersweetness to the day coming to an end and the orange light fading in the sky.
445 Presently they were passing the frozen lake they'd passed many hours before on their way to the Rec Center. Although it had been empty before, it now had a few kits and cubs skating about on the ice. There was the sound of laughter and kids and in general the place felt busier and more occupied, and that's because, it was. Family's had finally started to pour in in earnest anticipation of the Yule Log Celebration. Soon darkness would envelop this vast wintery wonderland and then the real celebration would begin. The Isle was beautiful lit up by little lanterns placed along it's perimeter, placed by the children. In the quickly dimming light they began to glow with a kind of magic. Something holy and ancient and unnamable. Like spirits floating on the ice, both warm and welcoming and yet giving the land a sense austere loneliness.
446 Sven watched as the children skated. His eyes were drawn a pretty girl here or there, although he knew better than to stare too long at any one of them. Still his attention was clearly towards the lake. Perhaps he felt disconnected from the other children in some way and wanted to go out there and make friends himself, but was simply too shy to do so.
447 Kyaw sensing Sven's forlorning jumped in, "Do you ... wanna go skating with me later?" Kyaw offered. Sven nodded his head quietly. "Alright, then that's what we'll do. But hey Sven..." Kyaw continued.
448 "Uh ... yeah?" Sven replied. "Where are we going now?" Kyaw said as he stopped where he was standing. Sven shrugged. "I don't know. We took so long, I'm probably gonna be grounded now. I don't know what to do." Sven confessed. "Well if you are gonna be grounded anyway, why don't we go do the thing that we set out to do in the first place. You still have the keys." Kyaw reminded Sven.
449 This seemed to wake Sven up a bit. "Oh yeah. You're right! We could actually take the sled out of the car now. Do you still wanna Kyaw?"
450 "Are you kidding me! That's what I've been waiting for this whole time!" Kyaw said enthusiastically. "Alright. Awesome. Let's go mate!" Sven said as he started hopping off. Kyaw did not move from his spot though. "Hey what gives Kyaw. Aren't we going?" Sven asked. "And are we still gonna go hide in the woods, or can we go down the bunny slopes." Kyaw said with his paws folded. Sven just smiled. Kyaw was so much like a girl something.
451 Sven walked over and gave his friend a warm pat on the shoulder. "Nah mate, I've learned my lesson. I've got nothing to be ashamed of being your friend. There is nothing wrong with me simply being your friend." and with that Sven gave a little sincere smile. This much Sven had finally worked out for himself. Kyaw was his friend, and as long as there were no inappropriate thoughts or feelings, there was nothing unchristian about being Kyaw's friend. In fact, it was very unchristian of everyone else to treat him so poorly. Hate would not bring furs to the light, only love. After all, Yah-Hasha was love, was he not?
452 With that both boys began to enthusiastically break into a gallop, and then a run, and then a giggle fit. Sven had found peace in his feelings at last. He liked Kyaw. So what if he was different. Life was lighter and more fun when he was around, and liking someone was nothing to be ashamed of. It's not like he like liked him or anything. And maybe others wouldn't understand Sven's feelings, but that was alright. And anyway, what would strangers care if a roo boy happened to hang out with a rabbit boy. No one would think it strange. Sven didn't know most of these kids, nor did they know him, so it wouldn't matter to them seeing a roo and a bun sleighing down the slopes together. After all, Sven wouldn't be doing anything wrong. Nothing wrong with sledding ... Sven would just have to keep the fact that he copped a feel with another boy between him and God. From now on he was on the straight and narrow. And hey, maybe by showing Kyaw some wholesome christian love, he could bring him to their christ.
453 Sven started to feel very hopeful for the future. Kyaw really could be his friend. He didn't have to live in fear of everything. It was okay to feel something. It felt nice. He hadn't felt free to feel. Not even towards girls. Everything felt guilty and wrong. Every thought and desire suspect. But with Kyaw he didn't feel that way now. He could enjoy his company and say so without it being awkward and wrong. And right now the thing he wanted most was to go down those bunny slopes with his bunny friend. They'd gone through trials and tribulations together, but the heavens had finally seen fit to make the planets align and give them this opportunity to just be kids.
454 At last they took a little breather as they saw their village emerge from the wintery fog. Kyaw came up and grabbed Sven by the paw while Sven was still panting. Sven decided not to flinch this time. Instead he said, "You were really great back there by the way. I'm sorry I got angry at you. This was your idea and it worked in the end! Come on, we're almost there!" and with that Sven broke paws with Kyaw and began galloping ahead. He only turned around to signal for Kyaw to follow, which after a moment of admiring his handsome and charming protector, he did.
455 At last the boys started to come up behind the hotel, making their way through the village. Sven was cautious now, checking around every corner and carefully looking around at his surroundings and signaling Kyaw to come in closer.
456 "What's wrong Sven?" Kyaw asked innocently. "I'm trying not to bump into my parents. If they catch us all bets will be off." Sven said. "Hmph. Well ... I suppose you have a point there. But you know-" Kyaw began. Sven turned around, "don't start" he said irritably. They were already beginning to know exactly what the other was about to say. In any case there is no doubt he'd be instantly grounded the moment he was caught, so there was nothing for it but to be careful.
457 At last the boys made their way around the Snowsvald Inn. Sven peaked around the corner. The car was still sitting there in the snow. It was practically buried in snow by this point. It had apparently been untouched since this morning. Sven's parents were no where in sight. The lot though had changed. There were many many more cars now then there'd been in the morning. Sven gulped.
458 "Uh, hey Kyaw." Sven said. "Yes my love?" Kyaw chirped. "Don't call me that." he frowned. Kyaw looked a little hurt for a moment. "Look never mind that for now. Listen. Could you just ... stay right here ... while I go get the sleigh?" Sven asked as politely and non-confrontationally as possible.
459 "Why? -_-;" Kyaw said in a low and irritable tone. "I don't know. I've just got a bad feeling. Just to be safe, could you just stay here and not move from this spot? Please?" Sven begged. Kyaw folded his arms. "That's what started this whole nonsense this morning!" Kyaw protested. "Yeah but that was different. It's literally just a few feet away. You can look and take a peek if you want, just make sure you are out of sight. Please? For me?" Sven said as held both of Kyaw's paws in his mittens and gave him a little kiss on the forehead. "It'll only take a few seconds promise." Sven said. Kyaw couldn't help but blush and feel all buttered up. "Oh alright. But this better be quick this time!". "It will!" Sven reassured. 'As long as I don't get caught' he thought to himself.
460 With that he hopped off towards the car. Kyaw got down on his paws and knees and looked to see where Sven was. Sven looked around nervously for a few moments, making sure his parents were no where in sight. He then began fiddling with the keys trying to get the trunk open. He was having a little bit of trouble. He was only six after all, and also the lock was a bit frozen. He finally managed to jiggle the keys just right to get the mechanism to turn, and the door swung open. And there is was! The beautiful red sleigh just sitting there innocently, patiently waiting for the love and attention it longed for ... not unlike Kyaw.
461 It was then that Sven suddenly shut the trunk closed!
462 "Hey Sveny! What you up to?" Kyaw heard a voice from the parking lot. He strained to see who it was but they were hidden behind the cars from Kyaw's point of view.
463 Then Kyaw heard another voice. "Hey man! Long time no see cousin!". Kyaw began to get nervous. The loud voices scared him, and they seemed to be coming from everywhere.
464 "Hey brodder! How's it shaking? Where you at cat?" came yet a third voice.
465 "Oh hey guys! When did y'all get here?" Kyaw heard Sven respond. 'No. Not now. Tell them to buzz off', Kyaw thought to himself. This was his special time! They had all summer to play with Sven. Why'd they have to be right here right now?!?!
466 "We just arrived. Our families insisted on bringing us to this silly Yule Log burning. laaaammmmeeee! Wooooah, burning wood ... big whoop. Anyway, when did you get here, Svy?" Kyaw heard the first voice again. Kyaw recognized it. It was Torvald The Wolf Cub. The same Torvald that used to laugh and tease and torment him all through Kindergarten. Who called him a sissy when the teacher wasn't listening, and sometimes even when she was! Kyaw tensed up. It was partly fear and partly anger that was boiling up inside. And something new. A new emotion ...
467 Torvald stepped into view and walked up to Sven all casual like. Like a well practiced routine they gave one of their classic handshakes. Was ... was Sven smiling?! 'Why that two-faced', thought Kyaw irritably.
468 "My parents took me and my brothers here this morning. We've been hear pretty much since sunrise." Sven said in a surprisingly jovial tone, like he was just having a casual chat. Wasn't this a bad turn of events? Shouldn't he be concerned about them ruining their fun?! Sven is probably gonna chat 'em up for a minute, then he's gonna come up with a clever excuse to lose them. Then they'll abscond to go sledding. Surely that was what the plan was. Sven was just playing the part! Right. Right?! Kyaw thought with growing frustration.
469 Next a young fawn came into view. "Helmer! Hey man, how is that sprain? We've missed you so much on the field!" Sven shouted excitedly. "Aw man, I healed up a while ago cuz". Then something happened which really got our dear little rabbit boy in a tizzy. Sven went and hugged Helmer! And not just some casual hug. A real sincere hug, cause they hadn't seen each other in a while and Sven had been worried for his friend. Then that new feeling started to really flair up. Kyaw's jealousy glowered and gave him a low but steady burning in his soul.
470 "Oh brother! You two are always a bunch of mush-bunnies! Get a room!" came the third voice as an young ocelot cub came into view. "Yeah seriously, you guys are a bunch of marshmallows. But what can you expect from a bunch of prey anthros, eh Cadence." said Torvald. "Yulp. Predators for life." Cadence said as the two bummed fists. Sven finished hugging Helmer finishing up by giving him a good slap on the shoulder. Then he walked over to Cadence. "Hey Cadence, how's it hanging?" Sven said and gave the ocelot a little fist bump. Not only was Cadence not comfortable with close contact but his claws had been known to hurt others so he preferred to keep his paws to himself.
471 "Anyway, where you been Sven" Torvald began. "We haven't seen you since Thanksgiving Vacation". Sven couldn't tell them the truth of you'd he'd been hanging out with all December so he just shrugged. "Well if you'd been hanging out with us you would have known Helmer recovered and returned to school the following Monday. But you wouldn't know that since you never came round. Seriously bro, where you been?" Torvald complained.
472 'He's been with me!' Kyaw wanted to spring out and announce, but his better judgement prevented him from moving. For the moment he was hidden. The darkening sky provided additional cover.
473 "Aw you know. Games don't start up 'til the spring. There is too much snow this year." Sven offered.
474 "Yeah shame about that" Cadence said dejectedly as he fitfully kicked a little snow with his footpaw as if he were angry at it. "Yeah that's true. But you still could come hang with us once and a while. We've all been hanging out together since the snowstorms began. I know we haven't been able to play and all, but you know, you still could hanged with us." Torvald said irritably. A tiny hint of hurt was in his voice though he was trying his best to keep it to a minimum.
475 "Yeah - I know - but it's just - I don't really - uh - It's just -" Sven began to mumble. He wanted to say he never knew what to talk about when they weren't playing and talking about baseball, but he sensed it wasn't a very nice thing to say openly.
476 "God damn it Sveny, spit it out!" Torvald burst out gruffly. "It's nothing. You're right. Sorry." Sven tried to brush it off awkwardly. "You don't got to apologize - ain't no one holding a gun to your head - but - you know - " Torvald began, "It's good to have the gang together again. That's all". That was Torvald for, he missed Sven. Sven smiled and nodded. He knew what Torvald was trying to say without saying it.
477 "The Valley Kits reunion!" Helmer said as he smushed everyone together in a big group hug. "Come on, get off Helmer!" protested Torvald and Cadence. Sven was the only one who did not protest. He couldn't help but smile to himself. He'd never admit it, but he loved the attention and comraderie, and he'd missed it this long December month. Then Helmer pretended to be an announcer "And who knows what havoc The Kits will cause this time?! Get ready sports fans, and Dweebs and sissies beware!".
478 That reminded Sven. Shit. Kyaw!
479 Sven broke up the group hug abruptly. "Hey, you guys must want to get upstairs and get your stuff in order." he said. Torvald raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Dude. That's what our parents are for. See?" Torvald said pointing towards the family car. Sven could see Torvald's mom, dad and older sister unpacking the car. "Yeah brother, we came to hang out with you!" said Helmer unabashedly giving Sven a little punch in the shoulder.
480 "Oh ..." Sven began. "Geez, don't sound so excited!" Torvald said sarcastically. "What? You got something better to do? If I didn't know any better I'd think you were trying to get rid of us. We've only not seen in each in a whole month, but whatever!" Torvald grumbled.
481 "hm ... something better to do ... hm" Sven said kicking the snow distractedly as he tried to come up with an excuse. He couldn't think of one. "Not really. I don't really got anything going on. I was just mulling about bored.". Sven gave a furtive glance towards the corner of the hotel. 'Why that infernal kangaroo' thought Kyaw enraged. He's gonna stand me up ... AGAIN!
482 "So uh ... what do you guys wanna go do first then?" Sven replied.
483 'Oh, hell nah!' Kyaw thought getting up unto his feet and stomping his foot. Enough was enough! He was gonna give Sven a piece of his mind, the presence of the other boys notwithstanding!
484 Kyaw stormed towards the boys who were at this point just laughing and chatting and catching up. It didn't seem like Sven was in any hurry to lose the gaggle of gossipy geese he called his 'friends'.
485 "Hey, Sven! I have a carrot to pick with you!" he said marching towards the group, arms swinging and ears fuming. Sven turned to Kyaw and looked absolutely mortified.
486 "Hey look it's the ballerina boy! Haha! Hey where's your tutu?", shouted Torvald pointing. Then the other two boys got in front of Sven all casual like as if on command. "It's at home." Kyaw said with total seriousness. "Holy shit! He seriously just admitted he has one! Hahaha! What a gaylord." Cadence scoffed.
487 Kyaw stopped to assess the situation. The three of them had their arms folded intimidatingly. They weren't gonna let Kyaw get anywhere near Sven.
488 "Anyway..." Kyaw began as Cadence continued to laugh. "Get Outta my way. I wanna talk to Sven!" Kyaw demanded. "Is that so sissie boi?" said Helmer real slow like.
489 "What business you got with Sven fruitcake?" said Cadence the Ocelot.
490 Sven was in the back making paw gestures slashing across his neck and trying to shoo Kyaw away. He glared as if to say 'I told you to stay hidden! Get out of here you idiot!'.
491 "Whatever you gotta say to Sven you can say in front of us pantywaist." said Torvald gruffly.
492 "What's up with that girly fur coat you got there?" inquired Helmer suspiciously. "He's trying to be like one of us ... and failing miserably. I heard o' boys that dress like him dough. All fancypants. He's got all the signs. You best not lay a finger on Sven. We don't want you getting your cooties on him!" said Cadence scornfully.
493 Kyaw folded his arms fitfully. "I'll have you know this coat is very expensive. I'm ten times better dressed than any of you right now!"
494 "Oh I get it, you think you're better than us cause your family owns that tacky little voodoo shop and can afford to get you fancy clothes. Well fancy boy, get any closer and will mess up that fancy coat of yours, and then we'll see whose better dressed!" shot back Cadence.
495 Kyaw's fists began to clench into little balls of rage. He clenched them so hard they were beginning to turn pink.
496 "Oh look fellas, I think we are making the lil girly boy mad! What you gonna do lil girly boy? You gonna twirl on your tooties for us? Huh?! Hahaha!" Torvald taunted.
497 "I'm gonna - I'm gonna ... DO THIS!" Kyaw shouted. Then without thinking he got down on his knees and started to gather up some snow. "Oh no fellas!" Torvald said sarcastically as he nudged Cadence. "This oughta be good" Cadence said dismissively.
498 Kyaw got up and tossed the snow into the air, "UMPH!", the snow came down in a useless flurry a foot from where Kyaw was standing ...
499 Sven face palmed in the back. Had he taught that boy nothing! This was so humiliating! Why wouldn't Kyaw just back down and run away!?! He knew his friends. It was only going to get worse. They got off on this sorta thing. Kyaw was so haughty and proud and mouthy for someone regarded as so low down the social hierarchy. He was a nail just ASKING to be hammered down!
500 "Pfft! HaHaHaHa! OH MY GOD! THAT WAS WORSE THAN I THOUGHT IT WAS GONNA BE!" Torvald belted out. The other boys started belting out in laughter uncontrollably, practically doubling over in how ridiculous Kyaw looked. All except Sven who just stood there looking embaressed himself. "I'd say you throw like a girl, but I know grandma's who can throw better than that!" Cadence said scornfully.
501 Kyaw was mortified. Totally and utterly humiliated. His whole face started to turn a frightful pink from the embarrassment. He felt strange and other and different in all the worse possible senses, and despite his efforts, for once, to hold back some tears, his face started to leak.
502 "Awwww! The pwecious lil wabbit is cwying! Awwww! Poor baby wabbit! HaHaHa!" Torvald said mockingly.
503 "C-come on guys ... that's enough, leave him alone." Sven said meekly in the back. No one even seemed to hear him. He felt powerless in the situation.
504 "Hey let's show him how it's done." Cadence said slyly looking towards Torvald. "Oh yeah. That's a good idea." Torvald said with a devilish grin. And with that the three boys started gathering up snow balls to hurl at Kyaw. "We could use the target practice." Helmer observed gathering up some of his own.
505 With that the boys got up with a couple of snowballs each, and started pelting Kyaw over and over. "Get lost ballerina boy! Sven doesn't care what you gotta say and neither do we!" Torvald spat. "Yeah! Git!" added Cadence. "Go cry to your mama boy you mama's boy!" mocked Helmer.
506 The boys threw as hard as they could, without mercy, and with gleeful spite. More importantly, a sense of morally justified spite. Kyaw had come to harass them. They felt they were protecting Sven. They felt they were teaching Kyaw a lesson. But most of all they felt they had no reason to consider Kyaw's feelings. He was an anomaly that needed to either stop being the way he was, or leave them alone!
507 The snowballs stung a bit, though his thick winter coat provided some protection, but it was more the emotional pain that really stung. His tears were uncontrollable now. He should have run away, but he just stood there and took it. Like some sort of humiliation ritual. Like he was looking for pity ... from somefur. This did not make the boys feel sorry for him though! No, it just made them throw even harder and hate him all the more, because he had violated the one most important boy rule: Never beg for mercy!
508 "Guys stop" Sven said meekly, but they continued. Then Sven became mad. "GUYS I SAID STOP!" Sven shouted, pulling Torvald's arm causing him to drop his snowballs. "Hey! What gives Sven?!" Torvald said bewildered.
509 "Look at him! He's a mess!" Sven pointed towards Kyaw who was sobbing. He looked cold and he was shaking and his eyes were red. "He's no threat to you." Sven scolded. The boys momentarily felt a tinge of guilt, but they refused to acknowledge the boy who was, at the end of the day, not really different than them. Just a boy their age they didn't know or understand very well, but just an ordinary boy at the end of the day. Perhaps they wouldn't be so different if they weren't always trying so hard to be so big mean and very grown up.
510 "Yeah but he won't fuck off..." Torvald defended sourly. He didn't like being scolded. He probably knew deep down he was a nasty and mean spirited scamp, but he hated it to be pointed out. It was bad enough in the presence of adults, but it was worse in front of another kid, especially one he considered his best friend.
511 " ... Let me handle this ..." Sven finally said sternly, and walked in front of the other boys. Kyaw dared to look up towards Sven. That look on his face ... it frightened Kyaw, it was so disturbing to see that loving adorable face ... contort into a look of malice. It was as if Sven was suddenly a different furson, a furson Kyaw did not recognize. Where, or where, is my sweet and wonderful Sven? Are you still in there Sven?
512 "YOU STILL GOT SOMETHIN' TO SAY TO ME?!" Sven shouted with a face full of genuine rage. Had Kyaw fucked up? Was Sven mad he'd not stayed hidden like he'd instructed him?
513 The harsh tone pierced through Kyaw's heart like a javelin. Why? Why was Sven treating him this way? Why? Why?
514 Shivering and unable to speak all Kyaw did in the end was shake his head no. He didn't dare say anything now. All his boldness was gone. All his haughty arrogance humbled. Sven had made every high thing low.
515 "Good!" Sven said spitting into the snow and rubbing it into the ground with his foot. "NOW GIT!" Sven said pointing out into the night, banishing him.
516 Kyaw couldn't believe what he was hearing. His lips gibbered something. "S-s-sven - I don't - understand -". Kyaw seemed unable to move. As if he was frozen in place by shock. This was getting nowhere.
517 Sven bent down and started meticulously making a snowball, staring right into Kyaw's eyes the whole time. The look was confusing to Kyaw. It was not friendly, it was not hateful, but it was very serious. "... get - out - of - here - now." Sven said in a low tone. Kyaw for the life of him couldn't make himself leave, even though he knew EXACTLY what was coming. Like a deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming freight train!
518 Sven raised his fist with the snowball, ready to put down what he'd created. The threat was clear and eminent, and yet Kyaw could not leave Sven's side even now. He couldn't raise his paws against him. He could not bring himself to leave. Only an act of incredibly cruelty from the one he so deeply adored would send him on his way. And so ...
519 "GET OUT OF HERE YOU STUPID RABBIT!" Sven shouted, but Kyaw refused to budge even while he shivered in fear. "S-sven I can't. I can't leave y-"
520 Sven did not hesitate. He chucked that snowball like he was pitching a baseball ... straight into Kyaw's face ... at a hundred miles per hour ... and it hit him with so much force he fell to the ground with a thud.
521 "PAM! RIGHT IN THE KISSER!" Torvald exclaimed excitedly, the raw violence thrilling something deep in his canine nature.
522 Sven moved towards Kyaw and covered his mouth. He could see that Kyaw's nose was bleeding from the impact.
523 Kyaw struggled to lift his head towards Sven . His body was curled up pathetically. He was crying but he would not look away from Sven. 'How could you do that to me', his eyes said.
524 "Hey guys! He's bleeding! He might snitch on us!" Helmer observed. Kyaw's nose dripped deep blood red into the snow as he stared forelorned into the face of the boy he'd loved so deeply and fully for almost two years all for it to end like this.
525 "He won't ... will ya Kyaw." Sven said sternly. That bunny just kept staring at him with those heartbroken eyes. Finally in spite of himself he shook his head gently no.
526 Kyaw couldn't process it. He wanted some sign, some indication there'd been a mistake. A terrible terrible mistake. Was this it? Was ... Sven breaking up with him? Was he done with him for good?
527 Sven's face was strange to him now. All the emotion was gone. It was cold and empty. Is this ... what being a boy is? Being ... an unfeeling monster? Kyaw was horrified, but even now he found himself unable to leave the boys side.
528 Sven walked up a little closer to Kyaw and Kyaw shuddered in fear as he tried to pull away instinctively. He felt like an injured rabbit, unable to defend himself only delaying the inevitable bite of death.
529 Sven stopped not but a foot away from Kyaw and bent down on one knee. "Kyaw ... please ... juuuust go." Sven said quietly. Then Sven got up and the look on his face was cold and heartless as he stood over Kyaw.
530 "I SAID GIT!" Sven shouted and started kicking snow onto Kyaw over and over and over again, until Kyaw was practically covered under a layer of snow.
531 "Oh no, the poor wittle wabbit died! It's time to ... bury the wabbit!" Torvald mocked. Then the three boys began to chant over and over again "bury the wabbit, bury the wabbit".
532 "Why are you doing this to me?" Kyaw asked Sven pathetically. Sven paused and stopped kicking for a moment. "Because I want you to leave." Sven said. Kyaw's eyes began to fill with tears until he couldn't see anymore, and then he said "If that's what you want ... fine then I will!".
533 With that Kyaw pathetically got himself up and limped about like an injured animal. He fell over once and the boys just laughed at his expense. He was so disorganized in thought that he also bonked his head on a lamppost and they heckled him some more. All the while Sven looked on and would not turn his gaze from the benighted rabbit.
533 "Come on Svy. Forget about him. Let's go play already." Torvald shouted cheerfully. Sven did not turn around. Sven took a deep breath. "Yeah alright! I'll show you guys around." he shouted back evenly, but his gaze did not turn from the boy stumbling alone and hurt.
534 The boys went on ahead, and Sven turned to go, but Sven continued looking back every so often to try and see where Kyaw was headed ... but suddenly he was gone ... the darkness had taken him. Despite the many bright colorful lights, the black sky felt deeply oppressive. Sven turned back to his friends and galloped away to catch up with them ...
535 Kyaw wandered aimlessly, his body and spirit broken. He looked up to the stars to guide him, to shine some light upon his benighted sole. A sign, a sigil, that all was not lost, that this was not the end. But the heavens were silent ... infinitely black ... cold ... and indifferent.
536 The snow began to fall again. Kyaw sniffled and continued to wipe his bloody nose, tears and snot running down his face.
537 Kyaw walked and walked, over the little lighted bridge over the frozen lake. He saw the children skating and laughing and playing. He didn't want to be around other children right now. He didn't want to be around anyone anymore.
538 He continued to wander past the villages and the lights and the happy furs, until he found himself deep in the dark woods. Little melting streams could be heard trickling in the dark.
539 It was so very very cold and Kyaw began to shiver something fierce, but he carried on. Who cares. Maybe he deserved to freeze to death, he thought.
540 It was then that a dark and ominous spirit came over him. The winds blew like an empty whistle. Something ancient. Something indifferent. Something deeply devoid of life or hope or warmth. Kyaw contemplated the many little rabbit kits that must have frozen to death in cold and pitiless winter storms. Both animorphic rabbits, and even anthro children many millennia ago. Children who got sick and died, despite all the love and warmth their desperate parents tried to provide. The woods were haunted, with the ghosts of lost children, to wander looking for their parents until perpetuity.
541 The world was suppose to be filled with benevolent spirits who were meant to guide them, their silhouettes written in the stars, but where had they all gone? Kyaw did not sense their presence that night. Instead when Kyaw looked up, he felt a God more ancient than the rest. The God of nothingness. The God of Godlessness. The Great Gaping Void that came before all the Gods. The God ... of Atheism. He thought of the great empty distances across the heavens between the tiny havens of light that were the stars, and he shuddered, for Kyaw got just a tiny glimpse of how truly lonely and empty existence could be ... and how truly lonely ... he could feel ...
542 ... and so began ...
...the longest night of year ...
The End?
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