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Spade's Snowy Shenanigans

Winter had once again covered the land of Rown in a thick blanket of snow. It glittered white like an inconceivable number of diamonds. For most, it was a time of fun and games not to be wasted. One person determined not to waste such fun was Spade the Tenacious. The upbeat, energetic, fun loving member of the Hillanders. The purple skinned naturman walked the streets of Oldhills town, sticking out his tongue to taste the falling snowflakes. The red weeping willow had shed its colorful plumage and was now covered in pure white snow. It was a sight Spade loved to enjoy this time of year.

 

            “Ahh, winter,” he sighed with a vibrant smile. “A time for fun, snow, and shenanigans. This frozen flap if ice will make my entire day.”

 

            “Hey Spade!” a shopkeeper shoveling nearby called to him. “You plan on doing any jobs today?”

 

            “Not today,” Spade called to him as he passed by. “Today is all about fun and nothing but fun. I intend to keep it that way.” It was strange feeling so determined when not being serious, but Spade was a lover of good times and entertainment. There was nothing that was going to ruin this snow day for him. One important thing was missing, though. Having a breakthrough realization, Spade pounded his fist into his hand and nodded at his thought. “There is no way I’m leaving my best friend out of this. Look out Chess, old buddy! Here comes the Tenacious!”

 

            With a newfound goal to involve his best friend in his day of fooling around in the snowfall, Spade ran up the ascending walkway leading to Chess’s home. It was the highest house in the hills of Oldhills Town. As soon as the stone home built into the hill was in his sights, he saw Chess walking out the front door. The Iron Horn was dressed in a winter coat covered in grass-like fur. Probably sheared from thick grass furred beasts.

 

            “Hey Chess!” Spade called with a wave. “Have I got a good time for-.” Before he could finish his sentence, he saw Contro follow Chess out the door. This caused Spade to lose his smile. A worrisome thought infested his mind like a pesky rash. “Uh oh…” he whispered. Suddenly, Contro stopped in his tracks and called to Chess.

 

            “Hold on, boy. I told you to wear earmuffs. Our large ears are vulnerable to this unrelenting cold.” Chess clenched his fists and gave a frustrated sigh.

 

            “Father, with all due respect, those little…things look terribly silly on me,” he argued. Spade couldn’t help but chuckle. He had to admit, a pair of earmuffs would likely make Chess look a lot less imposing. Contro simply turned around and grabbed the doorknob. He looked back with a displeased glare.

 

            “When I get the earmuffs, you’re going to put them on, and we’re going to train all day. We must continue to polish our capabilities. You know the importance of that.” The Guardian of Might’s tone was as serious as ever. Chess gave a reluctant nod as his father went back inside to retrieve the winter apparel. Spade felt a seething bitterness flare in his spirit. It was just as he feared. Once again Contro is ruining all the potential fun for his best friend, Chess. How dare he deny him a day of amusement and shenanigans in winter. It was totally unfair. Knowing that, Spade’s determination grew stronger. There was no way he was letting Chess down. He needed to have a good time during this snow day. Not just spend it training, being all serious. Ready to conquer the enemy of boredom, he approached his friend ready for a spiritual battle.

 

            “Hey, Chess,” he called. Chess immediately turned around and faced his friend. After knowing him for so long, he was able to read the Tenacious’s expression like a children’s book.

 

            “Sorry, Spade. No time for fun today,” he stated in a somewhat disappointed tone. “My father expects me to train with him in the hills all day. He says training on snow days does not come often and we need to learn to adapt to-.”

 

            “Blah, blah, blah, I know, buddy,” Spade interrupted. “But it’s not like this snow is going  to go poof and disappear tomorrow. You can always train another day.”

 

            “Say that to my father and he’ll throttle your spirit and ears with a lecture,” Chess sighed, turning his head down. “I’m sorry Spade, but the only thing not happening today is an easygoing time of enjoyment.” Spade gave an irritated frown and clenched his fists. He knew if he was going to get his best friend by his side, he needed to be clever. Chess’s dad was not easily torn away from training his son. Strength to protect was top priority to him. Remembering that, an idea sparked in Spade’s mind like a bolt of lightning. His expression lit up into a confident grin.

 

            “You leave everything to me, pal,” he reassured Chess. At that moment, Contro came out the front door carrying the bright green, cotton fluffed earmuffs. Chess moaned and narrowed his eyes at the sight of the silly looking attire. Contro immediately turned his gaze at Spade and gave a serious scowl.

           

“Sorry, Tenacious, but Chess will be very busy training with me today,” he stated. Spade felt a nerve twitch with agitation. He did not expect Contro to figure out his intentions right away. Still, he was determined to save his best friend from a day of nothing but serious training. He stepped forward and placed a hand on Chess’s shoulder.

 

“You’re right, Contro,” he said with a smile. “He’ll be busy training with me, after all.” Chess’s eyes widened and he swallowed hard. He expected Spade to go far to convince Contro to let him go, but he did not expect Spade to lie. “We’ll be training in the snow together to fully sharpen our strength. I’m just as powerful as Chess, you know. Training with me would be more effective for him.”

 

“And admittedly more enjoyable,” Chess added, shaking off his moment of nervousness. Contro looked at Spade, feeling suspicious. He knew his son’s best friend was a lover of fun and games. Still, he did have a point. Spade was more equal in strength with Chess than he was. If Spade trained Chess, he could train with the other guardians to increase his own strength even more. Still, there had to be caution. Thinking it over for a few seconds, Contro looked Spade in the eyes. The guardian’s dark green eyes connected with the young fun lover’s purple ones.

 

“You make a good point, Spade,” Contro said. “But how can I trust an easygoing lad like you will stay serious? I know you have a tendency to goof off in times like this. I can imagine you rummaging around like an animal in the snow, making snow angels and wasting time with meaningless snowball fights.” Chess felt slightly offended that his father seemed to think poorly of Spade right now. He took a step forward and raised his voice.

 

“Father, with all due respect, Spade’s easygoing nature really helps bring balance to my spirit,” he argued. “If I were shrouded with nothing but the serious hardships in life, my spirit would be weak with misery. Spade allows my spirit to relax and shine more efficiently when he allows me time to recover from work.” Spade felt his own spirit glimmer with joy hearing Chess’s words. It always warmed his heart hearing Chess express his feelings of friendship for him. To his surprise, Contro actually seemed to have softened his expression hearing his son’s heartfelt words. “Please, father. If I need to train, at least let me train with Spade. I guarantee it will be much better for me.” Contro looked at Chess, then at Spade. Thinking everything over and playing his son’s words in his head, he finally gave a confirming nod.

 

“Very well,” he replied. “You two may train together, and I shall train with the guardians.” A wide smile bloomed on Spade’s face and he raised his fist in the air in victory.

 

“Yes! Woohoo!” he cheered, giving a small leap. Chess sighed, glad his friend was happy. He looked at his father and nodded in gratitude.

 

“Thank you, father,” he said. “Have a good time training with the guardians.” Contro blinked slowly, still looking rather cautious. He stared at his son and leaned forward to intensify his gaze. Spade lost his joyful demeanor when he saw how strict Contro appeared.

 

“Do not slack off, Chess,” he ordered in a deep, deliberate tone. “Training is what is most important. Remember you must stay strong to protect your loved ones. Never forget that, my son.” Spade felt a slight flare of anger within him. He hated it when Contro riled Chess up with this same reminder over and over again. He knew it reminded his friend of his painful losses in life and his inability to protect his loved ones. At first he was worried Chess would give into his father’s words, but to his relief, he did not seem fazed.

 

“I understand, father,” he replied. Contro looked at Chess a few seconds longer before walking off down the hill. Spade looked back at the Guardian of Might with a slight expression of disdain.

 

“No need to remind us of the damn you-know-what times,” he muttered. “Seriously, Chess. Why does he have to do that to you?” Chess shrugged and shook his head.

 

“I’m pretty much used to it now,” he said in a calm voice. Spade sighed, knowing Chess was not being completely truthful. He knew his friend well enough to know how much his father’s lectures affected him. This made him grow even more determined to help Chess have a good time today and not worry about the hardships of life.

 

“OK, pal,” he said with a new, bright smile. “Time to have some fun in the snow like we never would know. Shenanigans in the frost like we’re our own boss. Let’s go!” Spade hurried down the hill while Chess followed him. Despite his friend’s enthusiasm, he couldn’t help but worry if they do spend their day doing nothing but playing games, they would get caught. “Hey, buddy, I know what you’re thinking,” Spade suddenly said. “Don’t worry about your dad checking up on us. I’ll take care of it.” Chess was not all that surprised Spade practically read his mind. However, he still had his doubts such cleverness could be pulled off.

 

“Are you sure? My dad will likely check up on us. He’ll-.” Before Chess could finish speaking, Spade turned to him and stared him in the eyes, his face inches away. Chess backed away slightly from his friend’s sudden fierce gaze.

 

“Chess, you’ve been busy as a bumblebee in a summer blossoming all year long,” he stated.

 

“The year just began this month,” Chess commented casually.

 

“Exactly, pal. You deserve to have fun for once in this thick blanket of ice crystals,” Spade asserted in a rather determined tone. “A winter day like this is not to be wasted on work, work, work. You are going to have fun with snowy shenanigans today no matter what. Do I make myself clear?” Chess couldn’t help but be amused by his best friend’s show of determination. It was funny he was feigning urgency despite their intentions for play and games.

 

“Ok, Spade,” he said. “I trust you.”

 

“That’s the spirit, cabbage top,” Spade replied with a smile, giving Chess another pat on the shoulder. Chess rolled his eyes, not fond of the humorous nickname that referenced his hair color. “Give me half an hour and meet me at Elobreeze Valley, Chess. I promise you I’ll take care of everything.” Chess sighed and nodded, wanting to trust his best friend. The truth was, he felt it would benefit him to spend time relaxing with games and amusement in the snow. Resting his body and mind now would help him work more efficiently later. If only his father would realize that.

 

“Ok. I’ll head there now, Spade,” he said. “See you there.” With flurries of snow flowing through the gentle breeze, Chess headed for Elobreeze Valley. He could only imagine how beautiful the plains would be covered in snow. Spade smiled a smug grin as he watched his best friend head out. He wasted no time, heading straight for his home.

 

“Now to make a few calls,” he stated. Back in the warmth of his home, Spade dialed a number on his phone. After a few rings, Jazz answered the call.

 

“Hello?” he greeted on the other end.

 

“Jazz, it’s Spade. I need your help, along with a few others,” Spade stated. If this plan was going to work, Spade knew he would need help from his friends. Luckily, he knew they would not waste an opportunity to spend time in the snow.

 

Half an hour had passed, then forty minutes, and Spade still had not shown up. Chess did not give up hope, though. As he sat on top of a large rock, he gazed around the snow-covered valley. The tree bridge connecting the two sides of the small stone crevice of the valley was shrouded in a white sheet of snow. Crossing it to the other side would be too risky. Letting his mind wander, Chess wondered why nobody had bothered to build a proper bridge for that gap in the valley yet. With his train of thought elsewhere, he failed to notice his friend approaching from behind.

 

“Hey, buddy! I’m-!” Spade greeted rather loudly. Chess, startled by Spade’s arrival, leaped off the rock and shook the snow off his cape. “Whoa. Did I scare you, Chess?” Spade asked. Chess rolled his eyes and looked away.

 

“Not exactly. You’re just late,” he replied in a somewhat annoyed tone.

 

“Sorry pal, but recruiting allies took longer than expected. No worries, though. I told you I’d take care of it,” Spade reassured him. The fun loving naturman leaped on the rock Chess sat on moments before and pointed his blade at him.

 

“I challenge you to a snowball fight, Chess! Winner chooses the design of our snowman!” He spoke like a warrior calling his enemies into battle. Chess couldn’t help but be amused by his friend feigning importance when they were just having fun.

 

“Challenge accepted,” he replied. “Let’s get to work on our forts.” With that, the two best friends took positions on different ends of their favorite area of the valley and began building small walls out of snow. The snow was already hardened enough for the forts to be impressively strong. Perfect for blocking snowballs. After their forts were complete, the duo began making a hefty supply of snowballs. Finally, their preparations were complete, and the snowball fight was ready to commence. The young men peeked from behind their forts and stared each other in the eyes. Anticipation ran through their spirits.

 

“I’ll make this quick. Get your white flag ready, Tenacious,” Chess taunted in an intimidating tone.

 

“The only thing that’s gonna be white is you, cabbage top,” Spade replied with a smug chuckle. Chess responded by clutching a snowball, jumping from behind his fort and tossing the frozen sphere right at Spade’s head. He ducked behind his fort just in time.

 

“You know I’m not fond of that childish nickname, my friend,” Chess said in a slow, deliberate manner.

 

“Liar!” Spade shouted through a boisterous laugh. He quickly returned fire with another snowball, only for Chess to leap out of the way back behind his frozen shield. He stood up to look above the fort, and Spade threw another. This time Chess was not quick enough to duck and the top of his head was grazed by the icy projectile.

 

“All right. Let the frozen fiasco begin,” he whispered with a hint of amusement. Following those first few exchanges of snowball throws, a furious barrage of tosses and dodges erupted in the fun little battle. Snowballs flew in all directions as the two friends aimed for each other’s faces. So far, Spade’s plan was working perfectly. Chess was indeed having a fun time with this amusing game.

 

Miles away in Highhills Town, Contro was heading to the Guardian Temple to train with his allies. However, that nagging feeling of being deceived would not leave his mind. Spade was a mischievous individual. It would not be a surprise if he lied about training with Chess and spending the day foolishly playing in the snow. Those young men were not children. Fun and games in the snow were beneath them.

 

“Damn it,” the guardian cursed as he turned around. Unable to shake the doubt, he stormed off to find his son and his troublesome friend. There was no way in the light of day they would get away with misleading him.

 

Heading for the rolling hills of the great, green country, Contro knew finding Chess and spade would be no easy task. The land was vast, and the duo could be anywhere. He supposed it was best to check the places where the friends would usually spend their time, but there were so many to venture to. There was Emeralda River, Elobreeze Valley, the Dile Wilds, Shadowrock Canyon, and Trueblue Woods. Checking all those places one at a time would take all day.

 

As Contro traveled down the snow-covered hills, he came across someone meditating under a tree. It was Jazz the Phantom, sitting cross-legged with his eyes closed. One of Chess’s other friends. Realizing searching without leads would be too tedious, Contro approached the meditating ice naturman to question him. Hearing the guardian’s footsteps, Jazz slowly opened his eyes.

 

“Phantom,” Contro greeted in a stern voice. Jazz narrowed his eyes, anticipating Contro’s usual testy demeanor.

 

“What can I do for you, sir?” he asked. Contro sighed and looked down at Jazz with an intimidating gaze.

 

“Have you seen my son and the Tenacious around here, boy?” he asked in a calm, yet serious tone. “I must ensure they have not lied and are spending their time on this winter day being productive with training.” Jazz sighed, then tilted his head towards the west.

 

“They went to Elobreeze Valley,” he answered. “Check near the fallen tree gorge where we usually go. Spade seemed determined to unleash a burning wave of a battle.” Contro observed Jazz’s demeanor as he answered. It appeared to the guardian the scythe wielding young man was telling the truth. However, he was meditating, so that might explain his solid calm. Still, there was no use not following this lead. Without giving a thank you, Contro headed for Elobreeze Valley to find Spade and Chess.

 

Once the guardian left, Jazz reached into his flared sleeve pocket and pulled out a tiny red gem. The crystal felt warm to the touch. Jazz proceeded to rub the shiny gem with his hand, warming it up like a tiny piece of coal. Far away, a magical transfer to another gem was about to begin. One that would serve as an alert.

 

Meanwhile, the snowball fight between Chess and Spade was raging further into a mischievous brawl of flying frozen powder. Each combatant sprang from the safety of their fort momentarily to fire a round of snowballs. They ducked behind the snowy walls from each oncoming throw. Taking cover to craft more ammo, the boys’ snowballs stopped for a time. Then, with two in hand, Spade rose from behind his fort and threw them with all his might.

 

“Take this, cabbage top!” he shouted. The assault only resulted in getting a slush of snow to the face. Chess landed a direct hit. Spade recoiled from the frozen blow and fell on his back. Chess ducked back behind his fort and called out to his fun loving friend.

 

“You can wave the white flag anytime, Spade. Just make your scarf like a flag and give it a few flaps. I swear I’ll make your defeat as painless as possible.” Spade could not help but chuckle at his friend’s words. Clearly Chess was having a good time with this game. Everything was going as smoothly as a newly polished wood floor. Unfortunately, Spade’s moment of joy was interrupted by a warm sensation in his back pocket. It was the signal he was hoping not to get but anticipated from the start. The heart gem was being warmed by one of his informants. This could only mean Contro was on the way to check up on them.

 

“Aw, guts. Already? What a hunk of rotting ham,” he moaned. It was time to get serious, but certainly not completely. There was no way Spade was wasting a moment of fun even when appearing serious. A wide grin spread across his face as he clutched his large cleaver blade. He then laid it flat on the ground and packed a mound of snow on top of it. “First of all, my signature scarf is black. Second, you think you’ve seen all of my snow balling skills, pal?” he called out to Chess. “Well…” Hoisting his blade high and leaping up from the safety of his wall, Spade swung his blade and a flurry of snow blasted towards Chess’s fort. Chess, shocked by the incoming frozen flurry, quickly ducked behind his snow barrier. The chilled cannonball slammed into it so hard he felt it shake against his back. The Iron Hard gave a small huff, amused his friend was bringing out the big cannons in this snowball fight. However, his amusement turned to confusion when he heard a sizzling noise behind him. To his shock, the solid wall behind him seemed to be softened and shrinking. Without turning around, Chess felt his fort slowly melt into nothing but a pool of clear water.

 

With his protection against Spade’s assaults gone, Chess stood up and faced his mischievous friend, who had a smug smile and was holding a snowball, ready to strike.

 

“Spade! I call shenanigans. You used your acid element,” Chess snapped. Despite his tone, Spade could tell his green haired friend was amused by his impish action.

 

“Nobody said we couldn’t use our elements, buddy,” he chuckled. “Sometimes you’ve gotta go no holds bars when you’re aiming for your opponent’s face.” Chess stood to the side, titled his head up, and glanced towards his friend in a determined yet somewhat lighthearted stance. He felt an urge to return Spade’s antics tenfold after having his fort destroyed. Spade playfully bobbed the snowball he held up and down, ready to begin his assault. “No more fort, not more protection. Looks like it’s all dodge from here, Chess.” Chess grabbed his mace, holding it as if ready for battle and taking a stance ready to run, leap, and dodge the oncoming barrage.

 

“Bring it on, plum skinner,” he taunted with a hint of playfulness in his tone. That nickname caused a reaction Chess was not expecting. A nerve seemed to burst as Spade’s smile turned into an agitated scowl.

 

“Hey! So, what if I like fruit skinless best?! It’s not a baby thing! It’s a normal preference!” he shouted.

 

“Umm. That’s not what I-.” Chess tried to explain he was referring to Spade’s light, pale purple skin color, but it was too late. The Tenacious had begun tossing snowballs at the defenseless Iron Horn. All that was left to do was dodge. Spade threw snowball after snowball as Chess leaped and swayed to avoid them. Once Spade ran out of ammo, he ducked behind his fort and started making more. He had to work quickly, though. Chess had every right to circle around his wall and assault him from behind.

 

Everything seemed to be going well. His friend was still enjoying the fun despite the inclusion of their elements and weapons in the game. He could only hope the fun would escalate as planned when the threat to their shenanigans arrived.

 

Storming through the thick snow of the fields, Contro was nearly at the Hillander’s favorite spot of Elobreeze Valley. The snow was difficult to walk in with his rage building. He was anticipating great disappointment, expecting to see Chess and Spade foolishly making snow angels and throwing around harmless, humble snowballs.

 

“If those boys are spending their time playing around, I swear to the gods,” he mumbled as he trotted through the snow.

 

Back at the valley, Spade had cornered Chess behind a tree, leaving the safety of his fort with an arsenal of snow stuck to his blade. Multiple snowballs were on the cleaver, ready to be launched at Chess like a massive spatula flinging a pancake.

 

“Had enough of my shenanigans, Chess?” Spade taunted with a smile. “Are you ready to admit defeat?” Though he sounded playful, deep down Spade was hoping his true plan would work. If all went well, if Contro witnessed them now, he would leave them be and their fun could continue. All he had to do was have faith in Chess’s enjoyment for battle.

 

Chess admitted this was becoming far more enjoyable. Hiding behind the tree and clenching his mace, he felt it was time to win this fun little clash. A surge of pale green earth energy began enveloping his mace. Taking hold of his weapon with two hands, Chess dashed out from his cover and ran as fast as he could.

 

“Assault the cabbage top!!” Spade yelled as he began swinging his blade, firing snowballs off of it like a catapult. Chess did not stop running. He kept up his dash and even with the snow beneath him, he remained swift. It was all about keeping his steps light so his feet would not fully submerge in the icy blanket.

 

During this time, Contro had arrived across the hill overseeing the valley area they were at. The guardian was deeply surprised by what he saw. This was nothing like he was expecting. Chess was running through the snow like he had done it all his life. He was not stumbling in the slightest on the soft, freezing surface. His mace was also glowing with earth energy as well. Contro could tell his son was preparing for a massive attack.

 

Chess patiently waited for his chance. Spade was nearly out of snowballs. The second his ammo was gone, he would win this battle. Sure enough, the snowballs on Spade’s blade were gone with one final swing. Not a single one had hit him. Now was his chance.

 

“Now you’re mine, Tenacious!” Chess shouted. Turning towards Spade in an instant, Chess raised his mace up high and struck the ground with it in a stunning crash. Instantly, a massive shockwave of earth energy flew across the ground, kicking up a tsunami of snow. All Spade could do was stand in place helplessly as the tidal wave of frozen powder surged straight for him.

 

“Aw man. This sucks,” he mumbled in a faint whisper. With nothing more to do, Spade braced for the chilling impact. The wave of frost enveloped him like a raging fire, knocking him to the ground and instantly burying him. Once the mist cleared, Spade had disappeared under the snow. Chess sighed in satisfaction and slowly approached the pile Spade was buried under. Despite being amused by what he had done, he remained calm and composed.

 

“Had enough, my friend? Or do you dare continue this needless tussle?” There was silence, and Contro, who had witnessed Chess’s snowy assault, was pleased with his observations. He crossed his arms and nodded, impressed with his son’s performance in the snowy conditions.

 

After several seconds of quiet and the mound of snow still, Spade’s arm finally poked out of the soft pile. He was holding his raggedy black scarf and began waving it like a flag. Then, his head popped out of the snow.

 

“You win. I give. Victory is yours. Bragging rights go to you, pal. I’m done,” he moaned in a groggy manner as his head wobbled back and forth. Chess gave a soft nod and approached his defeated friend with his hand outstretched.

 

“Well played, Tenacious. You fought well,” he said, grabbing Spade’s hand to help him out of the frosty mound. Before he could pull him out, though, a powerful voice sounded from across the hills.

 

“Yes. You both fought well.” Chess and Spade turned to see Contro watching them from the top of a nearby hill. His posture was straight as an arrow. He appeared especially pleased with them. “Fine use of the earth element, son. Using the snow to your advantage was quite ingenious. Your terrain crossing skills have improved as well. Keep up the good work.” Feeling satisfied that his doubts were for nothing, Contro turned around and walked away, his trench coat and long hair billowing.

 

Chess was stunned, but Spade’s mouth stretched into a wide, joyful grin. He chuckled slightly, then burst out of the snow laughing.

 

“It worked! My plan totally worked!” he cheered, raising his fists high and waving them around. Chess raised an eyebrow in confusion.

 

“This is your plan?” he asked.

 

“That’s right, buddy,” Spade replied. “I told you to have faith in me. I promised you would have fun today, and you are. Right?” Chess blinked, still slightly stunned his father seemed to think they were training. All they were really doing was what he forbid from the start: Fooling around playing games in the snow. Then, he remembered how the fun escalated, and he understood.

 

“I see,” Chess replied with a nod. “I guess fun and games can involve a bit of training when we need to hide our intentions.” Spade nodded to confirm his friend’s hunch was correct. Pleased their day was going well, the Iron Horn silphed his mace, (a term for carrying weapons on your back or side), and awaited his fun loving friend’s next activity proposal.

 

“OK, pal. The next bit of shenanigans on our to-do list is ice skating in the Dile Wilds,” he announced with vitality. “The big, murky pond should be ten inches frozen. Let’s make us some skates!” As he spoke, Spade led Chess over to the fallen tree connecting the stone crevice splitting the valley. His stride was full of energy and a desire for more excitement. Chess was a bit hesitant, though.

 

“That tree should be dangerously slippery from the snow,” he commented. “I suggest we take the long way to the forest.” Spade chuckled and shook his head.

 

“Pal, we were dashing around the snow like pros just ten seconds ago. I think we can handle this tree.” Though Spade sounded a bit overconfident, Chess could not help but believe he had a point. Perhaps he was thinking too much over it. Besides, even if they did fall in the crevice, it wouldn’t be that big of a deal. The pit was not very deep. Worst case scenario they would be bruised and sore for a few days if they fell.

 

Sure enough, they had no problem crossing the snow covered fallen tree. Chess felt reassured. He was glad to have Spade and his optimistic attitude to lighten the mood and make life easier. Now, off to the Dile Wilds to ice skate.

 

Back at the guardian temple at Highhills Town, Contro was fighting a large wooden goling. The middle of the interior of the temple had been coated in a blanket of snow. The holes in the ceiling allowed light as well as weather to seep through. The tree roots entangled in the ceiling were dark and hard as rock. Contro swung his curved blades at the massive wooden beast and unleashed barrages of earth attacks. Most of his attacks were unusually powerful due to his rising frustration.

 

“Where are the other guardians?” he grumbled as he attacked the goling. This did not make sense. The other guardians should have been here to train. Where could they be? As the wooden, soulless monster advanced with its bear-like limbs ready to strike, Contro infused his curved short swords with earth energy and slashed its right arm off. He then jumped back and struck the ground with both blades, unleashing two vertical elemental shockwaves. The waves of dark green earth energy sliced through the wooden goling. Silence befell the temple momentarily, then the conjured monster spilt in half. Nature energy seeped from the spilt and the two halves fell to the ground in a loud thud. Contro’s frustration did not die down. “This isn’t good enough. I need a more powerful adversary. Where in Berry’s golden garden are the other guardians?” Contro looked up at the intertwining tree roots. He could conjure all the wooden golings to his heart’s content, but it would never be an acceptable challenge for training. He needed more magic to summon a stronger one. Feeling ticked off, he decided this simply would not do. Impatience and disappointment flowing through his spirit, he stormed out of the temple to find the other guardians. “How dare they slack off on training. Snow covered days are not meant for fun for people such as us.”

 

Back at the Dile Wilds, Chess and Spade were at the largest pond of the reptile infested woods. The pool had frozen solid and now they were skating on it. While Chess was satisfied with simple twists, turns, figure eights, and full spins, Spade was ambitious and trying more complex moves. Most of his attempts ended in comical collapses.

 

“I’m the king of the triple axe kick spin!” he cheered as he spun around standing on one leg. Chess whirled past him in a graceful curve. Distracted, Spade slipped and fell on his behind. Chess nearly chuckled at his best friend’s entertaining actions.

 

“You appear more like king of perseverance and stubborn attempts,” he said as he skated a circle around him. “Not that there’s anything wrong with that, my friend.” Spade rolled his eyes and struggled back to his feet, almost slipping a few times. “Perhaps if we just play follow the leader? Or tag, maybe?” Chess suggested. Spade let out an amused exhale through a wide grin. He appeared to be still and docile, when suddenly he lunged forward and tapped Chess on the arm, nearly knocking him over.

 

“You’re it, cabbage top!” he snickered before skating off. Chess gave a testy look and chased after his enthusiastic friend.

 

“How many times must I tell you not to call me that?” he muttered as he skated at full speed. Spade did a turn and skated backward to face Chess. He waves his hands and stuck out his tongue to taunt the Iron Horn.

 

“Cabbage top! Cabbage top! You can’t stop me!” he teased playfully. Chess sped up his skating, determined to pound Spade for his obnoxious name calling. The duo swerved in wide curves, performed sharp turns, and scraped the surface of the frozen pond with every motion. Chess was determined to knock his best friend across the head and silence his taunts.

 

Fed up, he raised his arm and summoned a mighty magic force. His mace, which lay on the edge of the pond, began to shake. The weapon rose up and rocketed towards the warrior’s grip. In a flash, he clutched the diamond mace, did a full spin on the ice, and swung his tool in a wide arc. A barrage of minuscule dark green earth bullets shot from the mace. The attack was weak, but Chess knew it was all he needed. The tiny earth orbs descended lower and lower as their speed died down. By the time they passed by Spade, they were now skidding across the ice. The fun loving blue haired naturman instantly knew what was about to transpire.

 

“Uh oh,” he muttered. Before he could react, the rocky earth elemental specks disrupted his balance. Spade fell head over heels flat on his back, nearly cracking the solid ice. Chess hurried up to his fallen friend and skated a full circle around him before stopping in his tracks. Spade did not appear the least bit amused. He lay on the ice for several seconds silently, his narrow eyed pout staring up at the sky.

 

“Was that flex really necessary?” he asked in a discontented tone. Chess closed his eyes and let out a small, rugged exhale. It was an odd sounding breath. Spade looked up, wondering if his serious natured friend had just held in a chuckle.

 

“Maybe not, but I don’t regret it,” Chess shrugged. “That’s what happens when you call me that ridiculous nickname.” Spade smiled and laughed weakly, getting back on his feet.

 

“I know you like it because you like bopping me every time I say it,” he stated. “Just admit it, buddy.” Chess sighed, feeling tired of their time on the ice.

 

“What’s next on your agenda, Spade?” he asked his fun-loving friend. Spade sighed and nearly stumbled on the slippery surface. Regaining his composure, he announced their new activity.

 

“Snowman building. Let’s head back to the valley.” Spade made an abrupt turn, and promptly fell down again. He quickly got back up and skated towards the edge of the frozen pond. Chess kept his composure, but deep down he felt his spirit hold back a mental chuckle. Though he did not show it, his best friend truly amused him.

 

Meanwhile, Contro was searching all across the outskirts of Oldhills and Highhills for his fellow guardians, Donigo and Galag. A feeling of dread festered in the earth elemental’s spirit. He knew Donigo and Galag were not as strong and determined as him. Worry that they were wasting this winter day on idle entertainment pricked at his mind like a spider’s fangs.

 

“Those fools. When I find them, I will not show them sympathy,” he grumbled as he walked over the snow-covered rolling hills. He had been searching for over an hour and there was still no sign of the two ice elemental guardians. Contro was losing his patience. Finally, after trotting over yet another hill, he caught sight of something that made his spirit ignite with an outraged flame. There, at the base of the hill, he saw his fellow noble guardians building a large snowman. Donigo and Galag were smiling and chatting like common citizens with little responsibility. They seemed to be amused by the frozen sculpture they were crafting. Contro was absolutely furious. Disappointment taking over his thoughts, the Guardian of Might raised his sickle blade and stabbed it into the ground. A surge of earth energy formed a crack in the ground and it traveled straight for the snowman. The cracks glowed with dark green energy as they snaked through the earth. Donigo and Galag noticed the approaching energy and immediately knew what was to come. They quickly jumped out of the way. The groundbreaking element finally reached the snowman they had built. Instantly, the ground beneath it burst with an explosion of elemental power. The winter artwork was destroyed. Donigo and Galag looked on in shock, then turned to Contro with agitated expressions.

 

“Hey. What’s the big idea, Contro? It took us an hour to make that snowman,” Donigo snapped. Contro leaped off the hill he stood on and landed right in front of his two fellow guardians, his face riddled with rage and displeasure.

 

“You two are a disgrace to the guardian’s name. A disappointment to warriors of Rown. You dare to waste your time on this useless entertainment when you need to go through guardian training?” His voice was like a blade cutting into the earth beneath the snow. No tolerance and serious. Despite that, Donigo and Galag appeared more annoyed than ashamed after Contro’s lecture. Galag sighed with clenched teeth and shook his head.

 

“If there’s anything to waste today, it’s a good, leisurely time in the soft, cold snow,” he stated. Donigo gave a more agitated look than Galag, narrowing his eyes and darting a glare at Contro. He was not happy his snowman was demolished.

 

“Life is not all about battles and serious training, Contro,” he said in a cynical, exasperated tone. “We guardians need our personal pleasures, too. There’s nothing wrong with-.”

 

“We guardians are not supposed to act like common citizens!” Contro interrupted in a shout. “The safety of countless people rests on our shoulders. It is imperative that we maintain our strength no matter the cost. People with responsibilities such as us cannot afford to waste time on pointless games.” Donigo and Galag’s irritation grew as Contro scolded them.

 

“With respect, Contro, guardians or not, we’re people, too,” Galag said. “We deserve to take time to relax and have fun once in a while. If we didn’t, our spirits and bodies would fail us.”

 

“Life requires balance, Contro,” Donigo stated in a calmer tone. “Those who indulge in overbearing amounts of work with no idle relaxation grow to be miserable, weary, and unfit for their responsibilities.”

 

“You’re already unfit for your responsibilities wasting your energy doing children’s activities,” Contro snapped. Donigo and Galag were disappointed their words of wisdom did not seem to convince their ally to simmer down.

 

“You don’t honestly think a child would be capable of building such an elite snowman, do you?” Galag asked. “That was practically a work of art.”

 

“And you ruined it without any consideration of our thoughts,” Donigo added. “Contro, being strong is one thing. Being kind is just as important.” Contro gave a low grumble and lowered his head, giving an annoyed, exasperated stare.

 

“Ever heard of being cruel to be kind?” he muttered in a quiet groan.

 

“The point is, Contro, it is not healthy to exhaust ourselves physically and emotionally with nonstop training and work,” Galag stated. “Listen, why don’t you go spend some time with Chess? I bet that good friend of his, the Tenacious, will be able to devise some fun, enjoyable games to ease your body and mind.” Contro’s expression slowly morphed into one of dread at the mention of Spade’s star name. The thought of mischievous trickery came to mind. Perhaps Spade and Chess were only pretending to train. It would not be a surprise. They were likely building a snowman of their own right this moment.

 

“Oh no,” Contro groaned, turning away from his fellow guardians. “You’re right.” Donigo and Galag were confused by their ally’s reaction.

 

“Right about what?” Galag asked. Contro did not answer. Instead, he ran off back in the direction he came. Dashing up the hill he stomped through the thick, powdery snow. The two other guardians were left silent and bewildered.

 

“I just don’t understand his overly serious nature,” Donigo said, looking at Galag. “Contro is going to exhaust himself to a miserable fate if he continues these beliefs.”

 

“He was never the same when he lost his wife and daughter,” Galag stated. “I guess even now he’s obsessed with protecting what few loved ones he has left.” A wave of empathy flowed through the two guardians’ spirits as they remembered Contro’s suffering after losing his closest loved ones.

 

“How unfortunate,” Donigo sighed. “It’s sad thinking his wife and daughter’s spirits are gazing at him as an overburdened warrior who spends so little time being happy.” It was indeed a shame, the guardians thought. All they could do was hope Contro would realize he needed balance in his life. That his loved ones would want him to find time for his own happiness. Including Chess.

 

Back at Elobreeze Valley, Chess and Spade were busy constructing their own large snowman. The frozen sculpture had three segments stacked together and was quite wide. Spade had just cut two large branches off a tree to use as the arms. As he carried them back to the snowman, he saw Chess returning to it as well. He was carrying an armful of rocks of similar size and shape.

“What a stash. Well done, buddy,” Spade said with a smile. “Let’s give our creation some limbs and facial features.” Chess nodded and put down the rocks near the base of the fifteen foot tall snowman. Spade took one of the branches and stuck it in the side figure’s midsection. “One arm.” Hurrying over to the other side, he added the second branch. “Two arms.” Chess leaped up to push the rocks into the snowman’s face. They formed the shape of a smiling face. However, the way the two rocks serving as the eyes were shaped, they appeared to be giving an evil stare. Once finished, Chess raised an eyebrow at the sight of the completed snowman. Along with a evil looking smile, the arms were pointing somewhat upwards, making it look quite determined. Spade let out a long, rowdy laugh.

 

“Haha! It looks like it wants to rule the world!” he joked. Chess had to admit, it did look amusing. Still, there seemed to be something missing. Something that could make this piece of art just a little bit better. He thought for a moment, then had an idea.

 

“Hey Spade. Do you still have those single use wands Backgammon gave you?” he asked.

 

“Yeah. He gave me an illumination caster, an elemental enhancer, and an animator.” Spade answered, recovering from his laugh.

 

“Perhaps a little illumination would make the art more appealing,” Chess suggested. Spade’s eyes lit up with excitement.

 

“Hey yeah! Great idea! Then people could see our snowman from a mile away.” Spade reached into his back pouch and pulled out his magic sack. A sack capable of storing and retrieving objects from a much larger outside source. In Spade’s case, it was the treasure chest back at his home. He rummaged through the sack and found the three wands his friend Backgammon had given him. One was glowing with a bright, multicolored light. Spade quickly grabbed it. “One illumination spell coming right up,” he said.

 

Meanwhile, Contro was heading back to Elobreeze Valley, hoping Chess and Spade were still there. The thought that they had deceived him in order to fool around in the snow made him furious. He trotted through the snow with rough, angry stomps.

 

 

“I’ll make sure to give them a spirit cleansing lecture. By the gods, I’ll make them regret they ever messed with the likes of me.” As Contro traveled up and down the hills and through the snowy fields, he failed to notice a crow keeping a watchful eye on him. The black feathered bird had a bright green twinkle in its pitch-black eye. It flew up, heading for Elobreeze Valley. Looking through its eyes was none other than Backgammon the Lost Sorcerer. He had been asked by Spade to have his crows watch out for Contro. From the warmth of inside his tower, gazing at his crystal ball, Backgammon smiled as he ordered his crow to inform his friends of the guardian’s return.

 

Spade had made many attempts to make the wand work, but being rather unaccustomed to the art of magic, he struggled to unleash its power. He waved it around, said bogus magic words, and even poked the snowman with it a few times. Chess secretly found his mindless wielding of the wand quite humorous. Holding back a smile and chuckle, he tapped Spade on the shoulder.

 

“All right. Enough fooling around,” Chess said. “Like this, Spade.” He then waved his arm in a specific arc, sway, and point, demonstrating which movements to use. Spade nodded and gave a slightly irritated smile.

 

“Would’ve helped if you had told me sooner,” he sighed. Spade then mimicked Chess’s movements with the wand. Immediately the magical tool started to glow brighter. The second Spade pointed it towards the snowman, a burst of magical energy shot from the wand and struck the icy figure. There was a burst of light for a split second. Then, the illumination died down. Silence fell, and nothing happened. Spade and Chess stared with confused expressions. The wand’s spell should have made the snowman glow like a light bulb, but it remained pale white.

 

“It didn’t work?” Chess said in puzzlement.

 

“Must have been a dud,” Spade shrugged.

 

“There’s no way it was a dud. That wand was overflowing with magic,” Chess stated. Before the two friends could think this odd occurrence over, they both heard a loud, high pitch screech above them. They looked up, and saw a crow flying in circles above them, calling frantically. Chess could guess what this meant. He looked at Spade, and sure enough, the fun-loving naturman gave a nod and narrow-eyed stare.

 

“Yep. He’s coming back for more,” he said in a cynical tone.

 

“My father?” Chess asked.

 

“That’s right. Checking up on us again,” Spade replied. He then walked in front of Chess, facing away from the snowman. “OK, buddy. Just follow my lead. We’ll put on the best act imaginable. Make sure Contro sees us and thinks we’re as hard at work as any guardian.” As Spade spoke, he failed to notice something behind him that Chess was witnessing before his very eyes. The green haired naturman’s eyes widened at what transpired. The snowman he and Spade had built was growing larger and changing shape. The snow was morphing into larger sections, and the tree branches were growing into shapes that looked more like limbs with long, pointy claws. Even more unsettling, the snowman’s once comical evil face was warping into a true expression of chaos. A true mouth began to open below the stone eyes, and razor sharp teeth of ice formed inside. The rocks fell off and the indentations they left began to glow with bright, wild, sparkling magic. Chess stood in stunned silence as the transformation occurred. He was surprised Spade failed to notice as he spoke.

 

“Ummm…Spade??” Chess muttered, pointing behind his oblivious friend. Spade immediately knew something was wrong from the look on his friend’s face and his tone.

 

“Oh boy. What now?” he moaned. Dreading through every corner of his body what he might see, Spade slowly turned around. The once hilarious snowman had transformed into a sharp toothed, long armed, sharp clawed ice and wood goling. The animated elemental puppet was surging with magic inside it. The monster stared at them, then sputtered a guttural roar that sounded like a sick crocodile.

 

“You must have used the animation wand,” Chess said.

 

“My bad,” Spade mumbled in a comical, guilty tone. The unintentionally summoned goling raised its arm up to strike at the two young naturman. Spade and Chess leaped out of the way, the goling’s arm crashing like a fallen tree.

 

“Things just got serious, Spade,” Chess said as he summoned his mace. The weapon flew towards him, and he grabbed it. Spade did the same with his blade.

 

“All right. Let’s take care of this,” Spade sighed. Wielding their weapons, the two warriors readied themselves to attack and destroy the mindless elemental puppet they had accidentally created.

 

Nearby, Contro had nearly reached Elobreeze Valley, anticipating seeing Chess and Spade pretending to train to deceive him. He planned to reprimand them both for such an act. There was no way they would fool him twice. If all he saw was them clashing their weapons and using simple elemental attacks, he would break up their brawl and ask them why they were taking things so easy. If they appeared to be training hard, he will insist he watch them through the rest of their sessions. If they refuse, that will be his cue to begin the scolding. He had arrived at the final hill separating him from the view of Chess and his friends’ favorite area of the valley. To his surprise, he heard what sounded like roars and strong attacks on the other side.

 

Finally, when he saw the valley, he was surprised to see Chess and Spade fiercely fighting against a goling made of wood and snow. Contro doubted the two boys would go through the trouble of creating a goling to fake training. Chess was striking the goling’s snowy body with his mace, but it kept regenerating with the snow surrounding them. The animated beast swiped its arm sideways and Spade leaped upward to avoid its massive claws. He swung his massive cleaver blade down to lacerate the wooden limb. With a loud chop, he cut a huge gash in it. A surge of magic burst from the hole like a small geyser. The goling raised its damaged arm, and it nearly snapped in two. Chess jumped up with all his might and struck the monster in the face, breaking most of its icy fangs and leaving a gaping crack in its head. He landed on the snow and struck the base of the puppet’s frozen body. The beast let out another gurgling bellow.

 

“It sounds like a drowning thotodile,” Spade commented, trying to lighten the situation. Chess jumped backwards as the creature’s other limb crashed down in an attempt to crush him. “I got this, buddy!” Spade shouted, preparing to attack with his blade again. This time, the blue haired naturman infused his blade with a coat of burning acid. The sword sliced through the wooden arm like a stick of half melted butter. A loud sizzling noise echoed through the valley as the goling recoiled back. The beastly puppet was nearly destroyed. Realizing it was time to deliver the final blow, Chess tightened his grip on his mace and summoned a rush of earth elemental power. The ground rumbled beneath him as the energy flowed into him.

 

Finally, screaming an earth shaking battle cry, Chess jumped twenty feet into the air and raised his mace above his head, ready to strike. The goling turned its damaged head up just in time for him to strike dead on. The second Chess’s mace hit it, there was an enormous explosion of pastel green and dark brown earth power. The solid mist flew from the crash as the goling’s body burst like a bomb filled with snow. The magic within escaped the vessel and dissolved into the air. Spade watched in amazement as the wooden limbs lost their glow and shrunk back to their original state as tree branches. The snow splattered to the ground lifelessly. Chess landed on the ground, his cape billowing behind him in his victorious stance. The warrior remained silent.

 

On top of the nearby hill, Contro was pleasantly surprised by what he had just witnessed. He really believed Chess and Spade were wasting their time with childish activities in the snow. Seeing this display of power, he was convinced he was wrong. Pleased, he breathed a contented sigh and turned around to walk away. Before he could walk down the hill, Chess caught a glimpse of him leaving. Spade was too hyped by the goling’s defeat to notice.

 

“Yeah! Ka-Bash! What a brawl! Nice work Chess,” he cheered. Chess faced him, then pointed up to where his father had just left.

 

“I think my father thought the same thing,” he said. Spade was surprised. He looked up at the hill and barely caught sight of Contro descending to the other side. The purple naturman could not believe their luck.

 

“Wait. Did he seriously see-.”

 

“Yes,” Chess interrupted. “He saw.” Spade smiled a pleased, delighted grin. His plan continued working and it was all by chance. Their fun time in the snow was going better than he hoped.

 

“Well, I don’t know about you, but I think I’ve had enough snowman building for one day,” he said to Chess. “I believe it’s time to finish our day of snowy shenanigans with the last, best activity on schedule.” Chess gave a calm, satisfied expression. He was glad Spade saved their most fun activity for last.

 

“And what’s that?” he asked. Spade gave an eager expression and turned his head.

 

“We’ll have to go back to Oldhills for this,” he explained. “Our last task of entertainment is the ultimate thrill of Rown in Winter: sledding!” Chess felt a spark of excitement in his spirit. Sledding down the rolling hills of Rown indeed sounded like a thrill. Spade could see the slight hint of eagerness in his friend’s calm expression. “One quick trip back to Oldhills to get my sled and its snow ride time.”

 

“I’m ready,” Chess said with a nod. “We’ll have to be careful not to run into my father, though.”

 

“Don’t worry about it, pal. Knowing him, he’ll be at the guardian temple training as usual,” Spade reassured him. Chess nodded. His best friend had a point. Knowing his father, he would spend most of his time training at the guardian temple. If he and Spade traveled back to the village at a slow pace, Contro would never know they were there.

 

“You know me well, my friend,” Chess said. “Let’s go.” With Spade leading the way, the two friends traveled onward back to Oldhills town to retrieve the sled that would give them a thrilling conclusion to their day of snowy shenanigans.

 

Back at Highhills town, as Chess and Spade predicted, Contro was indeed training hard in the temple. He had conjured three stone golings to battle against. Sadly, the fights were not the least bit satisfying. If only Donigo and Galag weren’t wasting their time relaxing with fun and games. The golings would be much more powerful. Contro used his frustration to further fuel his physical power. He sliced the limbs of the elemental puppets with his curved blades. Using his earth element, he bashed them on the heads, cracking them to pieces. It was only a matter of time until they were all destroyed. The guardian of might sighed as the stone figures lay destroyed on the temple ground.

 

“I just don’t understand,” he wondered. “Why do they waste time with meaningless fun when they must train. Their loved one depend on them to protect them.” Feeling his thoughts were distracting him, Contro shook his head and empowered more of the temple’s crafted golings. He cast a beam of magic at three wooden puppets and their eyes immediately glowed with animated power. The training continued.

 

Having arrived at Oldhills town, Chess waited patiently outside for Spade to grab his sled. The streets of the tiny town of tall hills were now covered in the thick blanket of snow. Some residents were shoveling the slush off the stone pathways. As the snow continued to fall gently from the sky, Chess stood silently in front of his friend’s house. The Iron Horn was grateful Spade convinced him to relax today. He truly enjoyed the games he had with Spade. After five minutes of waiting outside, Chess heard a crashing noise from inside the house. Then, a cry of excitement bellowed in there. In a matter of seconds, Spade stormed out the door holding a large, wooden sled under his arm. Chess found it impressive his friend had no problem carrying it. It was as tall as he was.

 

“I got it!” Spade cheered with a thrilled leap. “Come on, pal! Next stop, the tall hills to the east!” Chess tried to keep his cool as excitement welled up inside his spirit. The legendary hills of Rown were meant to be slid down in the snowy winter days. Sensing his friend’s eagerness, Spade wasted no time running for the eastern exit. They’ll have to pass through Highhills town to make it to the hills. In the back of his mind Chess hoped his father would remain in the temple.

 

Though the stone and wooden golings were not much of a challenge, Contro was beginning to exhaust himself from summoning so many. After defeating over a dozen so far, he was beginning to feel the strains of the guardian training. Fatigue overcame the noble warrior as he continued fighting. Finally, with the last goling in his sights, he swung his sickle swords in a cross slice attack, splitting the elemental puppet into four pieces. The temple grew quiet, and the guardian fell to his knees. All that was heard in the dark stone temple was his heavy breathing. He was too weak to continue. It then occurred to him he was hungry. Contro decided to head to the Highhills vegan restaurant.

 

“Dinner, then continue,” he muttered. Though he was weak and hungry, the guardian was determined to complete his training. There was no way he was going to let his body and spirit weaken. He needed to protect his loved ones and land.

 

After passing by Highhills and traveling through the plains of Rown, Chess and Spade were nearly at their destination. A tall, steep hill just south of Trueblue Woods. It will be a true thrill sliding down that incline. Still, Spade, being tenacious as always, imagined something even greater. He turned to Chess with a wide, excited smile.

 

“Can you imagine what it might be like to ski down the Hills of Fortitude?” he asked his friend. The Hills of Fortitude were the tallest, largest hills in all of Rown. They were world famous destinations for hikers seeking scenic views and a few thrills. Chess had to admit sledding down such famous hills would be thrilling, but also dangerous.

 

“Those hills are more meant for skiing rather than sledding,” he commented. “Sledding would not exactly be…” he paused as if looking for the right words. “The most intelligent activity to perform on them.” Spade gave a hardy chuckle and turned away with his eyes closed.

 

“You’re saying my fantasy for the ultimate snowy shenanigan is stupid?” he asked in a joking tone. Chess rolled his eyes, but deep down he held back a tiny breath of laughter. He decided to combat Spade’s joke with another.

 

“I’m saying your fantasies are a bit too tenacious for your own star name. Don’t let your proper title get to your pastel purple head.” Spade let out a long, hard laugh, which Chess found a bit overreactive. The comment was not all that humorous, but the blade wielding warrior laughed like it was a fine joke.

 

“Sorry, pal,” Spade apologized. “It’s just always better when it comes from your mouth.” Chess was on the verge of smiling. That comment was quite flattering and comical. There was no time to continue the chat, though. They were now at the base of their desired hill. Now it was time to climb it. Naturman were built for walking all forms of land. No hill could not be walked to the top by these two strong, young, adventurous boys.

 

It only took a few minutes. The walk uphill would be a challenge for anyone else, but being born and raised in these hills, Chess and Spade weren’t even breathing heavily. Before their sledding could begin, the friends had one amusement to do first: admire the view. The teal blue trees of the Trueblue Woods were visible for miles from the hilltop. To see them all covered in a shroud of pure white snow was a rare, beautiful sight.

 

“Amazing, huh?” Spade commented in a tone of awe. “You can practically see the entire forest from up here.”

 

“No, no. Not even close,” Chess said. “Still an impressive view, though.” It certainly was. Rown was a country full of incredible sights, and this was merely one of them. That was not their reason for arriving at the top of this hill, though. Spade dropped the sled and lay it flat on the ground, pointing it towards the slope.

 

“All right, pal. Are you ready?” he asked Chess, his voice seething with sweet anticipation. Chess simply gave his friend a calm nod. Ready for their ride down the hill, Spade and Chess sat on the sled. Spade sat in front while Chess was in back. Both their hearts were beating fast and they were shaking with excitement. The horizon of Trueblue Woods stayed in their sights as they inched the sled towards the edge of the slope.

 

Finally, the sled began to descend on its own. In a matter of seconds, the two naturman boys were diving down the massive hill at tremendous speed. The fall sent surges of adrenaline through their bodies as the wind blew through their hair. All the while Spade cheered and shouted exclamations of enthusiasm and delight. Chess remained silent throughout the ride, but felt the thrill just as strongly as Spade. His whole body tensed up and his heart pounded from the extraordinary fall. At first, the sled’s descent sped up, and as the hill became less steep, it slowed down. Finally, the wooden object reached the base of the hill, and came to a complete stop. Spade was elated, raising his arms in the air, and screaming with joy.

 

“That was awesome!!” he bellowed. Chess could not hold back his joy any longer. For a split second a smile blossomed on his face, and he let out a small breath of short, brief laughter. Unfortunately, Spade failed to notice. The ride down the hill was indeed fun, but Chess desired more. When Spade turned to him, he wasted no time telling him.

 

“Let’s go again,” he said. Spade’s light purple eyes lit up with excitement.

 

“That’s the spirit, pal!” he cheered. Still fully energized and motivated, the two best friends headed back up the hill, Spade carrying the sled. It was time for another ride down the snowy slope.

 

Back at Highhills Town, Contro had finished a good meal at the most casual diner of the village. It was necessary to satisfy his hunger. Any weakness had to be dealt with immediately when training. He was now waiting at his table for his bill when a waiter came up to him.

 

“Still training, Guardian of Might? On a fine snowy day like this?” he asked him. Contro looked away and rested his arms on the table.

 

“No opportunity must be wasted. The protection of our land and people rests on the guardian’s shoulders. We must remain vigilant at all time.” His tone sounded eerily emotionless, making the waiter uneasy. This was often a symptom of the harsh, merciless guardian training. It could drain those who experience it of emotions, leaving them temporary shells of nothing but fierce protectors.

 

“Umm. OK,” the waiter muttered. “I hope you’ll at least be willing to take a break like your son and his friend did.” Contro’s vague gaze sparked into a look of suspicion and dread.

 

“What do you mean?” he asked in a firm tone.

 

“Well, those boys headed out towards the east. The Tenacious was carrying a large wooden sled. I guess they were done with training for the day or-.” The waiter tried to explain, but Contro had slammed his hand on the table, leaving a handful of currency on it. The guardian stormed out of the diner with a furious expression. The second he stepped out, he spotted the perfect person to question. It was Jazz. The guardian stomped over to the black clothed ice elemental, his anger clear as a cloudless day. Jazz noticed him immediately and became nervous, taking a step back.

 

“I know you know, boy,” Contro snapped at him before he stood in front of him. His tone was shaky with rage. “You spoke to me before, Phantom. You knew what my son and that troublemaker were up to.” He leaned forward to drill his stare into Jazz’s blue and green eyes. “Were they really training all this time?” Jazz was silent. He tried to keep his composure, but there were few things more frightening to a citizen of Rown than the rage of a guardian. He summoned every ounce of wit in his spirit to keep calm. Still, it was not easy lying. Jazz was about to speak when Contro brought a hand to his lips and spoke in a slower, more firm tone. “What, pray tell, would the gods consider, Phantom, if you were to lie to one of your most trusted protectors?” He paused, then brought his mouth closer to Jazz’s ear. “What is a lie worth? Is it worth deceiving your elders? Think hard, boy.”

 

Jazz felt his bravery begin to melt hearing the frightening tone of Contro’s voice. He could tell the guardian was furious. For a brief few seconds of silence, Jazz considered telling him the truth. That Spade had asked him to cover for him and Chess while they did their activities. However, thinking about it hard, he decided it was better for Contro to be angry with him instead of his closest friends.

 

“They’ve been training all day, sir,” Jazz said. As soon as those words came out, the blonde and black haired naturman immediately knew he made a mistake. His tone was not firm or reassuring. His words came out nervous and hesitant. If there was ever a clear sign he was lying, this was it. Contro silently glared at him with a disappointed, angry stare and shook his head. The Phantom lowered his shoulders in shame.

 

“You’re lucky I won’t deal with you this time, liar,” Contro said in a temperamental tone. “Right now I have more shameful liars to deal with. Not just liars, but slackers who dare to waste their precious training.” As he spoke, Contro walked away, heading for the eastern exit to Highhills Town. Once he found Chess and Spade, he planned to unleash a reprimand that would saturate their spirits with regret. Regret for ever defying the ways of the guardian training.

 

Chess and Spade rode down the hill in their sled a third time. Each descend was just as thrilling as the last. Spade continued shouting and cheering as they went down the slope. The screams were so loud and full of excitement Chess was almost tempted to join in. He remained his composed self, though. The only screams he ever made were battle cries. The two young naturman reached the base of the hill in their sled yet again. By now they were both breathing heavily. The adrenaline of the high-speed sled rides was leaving them exhausted.

 

“What a ride! I could do this till sunset. You still feeling the rush, Chess?” Spade asked through soft panting. Chess took a deep breath and nodded.

 

“A feeling of action like that always leaves my spirit fired up and wild,” he replied. He then looked over at the skyline. The thick, white clouds were beginning to darken. It would not be long before the evening darkness covered the land. “Let’s do it one more time. It’s late and we haven’t had dinner yet. We should call it a day soon.” Spade’s excited expression softened and he sighed with a bit of disappointment.

 

“All right,” he said. “But this will be the best ride of the day.” Carrying the sled, the two young men traveled up the large, tall hill one last time. They knew this ride would be the best of them all.

 

Contro stomped through the snowy landscape, his spirit fuming with rage. When he found those boys, he would show them no sympathy. Unable to contain his thoughts, he started mumbling to himself.

 

“How dare those boys. They think they can fool around in the snow like children? Like they have no responsibilities? Why, if corporal punishment was-.” He suddenly stopped himself. The fact that he thought of physical discipline disturbed him. Such actions were out and out abuse. This thought caused Contro’s anger to momentarily weaken. Perhaps he was getting too angry about this. He took a few deep breaths to calm himself down. It was likely Chess and Spade were at the tallest nearby hills. The one with the magnificent view of Trueblue Woods seemed like a good place to start his search.

 

On top of that very hill, Chess and Spade were ready for their final thrill ride. Sitting on the sled, Spade in front, they scooted forward to begin the plunge. Anticipation fluttered in their spirits like a swarm of dragonflies. They could not wait. Finally, at the edge, the sled began descending on its own. The ride was on.

 

“Here goes something!” Spade shouted. His scream echoed through the Rownan landscape. Any who were nearby would have heard him. Ironically, the one person who heard it was the one who they were trying to avoid all day. Contro heard the excited exclamation clearly. That obnoxious sound reignited his rage, and he immediately ran towards it.

 

Spade and Chess sped down the incline in their large, wooden sled. All the while Spade continued his boisterous shouts. The descent was faster than before, intensifying the experience. The two thrill seekers were thoroughly enjoying the ride, when something unexpected began to occur. The sled, traveling faster than before, began to wobble and lose stability. Chess braced his body to try to steady the descent, but the sled began to spin.

 

“Uh oh!” Spade cried. Before the young men could react, the sled was spinning around like a top, continuing to travel down the hill at tremendous speed. They held on tight to remain seated on it. “Hang on, Chess!” Spade screamed, his words dragging out as they spiraled out of control.

 

Contro heard the screams and followed them through the hills. He was nearly at the base of the hill he knew the troublemaking liars were. Finally, from on top of a smaller hill across from it, he saw what he had suspected. Chess and Spade were riding haphazardly on a sled, fooling around like children. His fury peaked at the highest point it had been all day, as well as his disappointment.

 

“Those impudent fools. When I have them in my grasp…” he muttered as he made his way over to them.

 

The sled continued to spin wildly with Chess and Spade still holding on tight. Finally, the slope became less steep and the fall slowed. However, Chess lunged left in an attempt to straighten the descent. As a result, he and Spade were thrown off the sled. The two naturman rolled down the hill, getting covered head to toe in snow. Already near the base of the hill, they slowly spun to a stop. Exhausted and drenched, the sledders panted heavily from the incredible, thrilling rush, their hearts still racing with excitement.

 

As they breathed deeply, their pulses calmed down. The exciting trip was over. In the calm of the tremendous adrenaline rush, Spade began to laugh through his breaths. Despite that harrowing mishap, that descent down the hill was indeed the best all day. Chess, his face flat in the snow, raised his head to look at his elated friend. The blue haired naturman was clearly drained of energy after that ride, but he still found it in himself to express his joy with a weak, breathy laugh.

 

Chess also began to feel the effects of the fun he experienced. The soothing euphoria after a drive of excitement overcame his spirit. His whole body felt deeply relaxed and his spirit warmed him like a fire burning within his chest. The happiness was too deep to hold back. Grateful to have spent this snowy day of fun and games with Spade, Chess’s face bloomed into a soft, gentle smile.

 

Contro had Chess and Spade in his sights. It would not be long before they would notice him. Once they did, he would give the slackers a serious piece of his mind. He had already recited some of the planned scolding in his head. However, before he could call to them in an angry shout, the Guardian of Might noticed the look on his son’s face. Contro stopped dead in his tracks when he realized Chess was smiling. A look of shock came to the guardian’s face. As he witnessed his son’s sincere, joyful smile, the anger and disappointment inside his spirit faded away like the vapor of snow melting in hot sunlight. Rarely did Chess ever express such emotion. Only when his happiness was at its deepest, truest, and purest did he ever smile. Contro felt a scramble of emotions growing within his spirit. Emotions that soothed his discontent. Joy, relief, and guilt. Joy that his son was genuinely happy, relief from the disappointment that tore at his mind, and guilt for demanding that Chess spend the whole day training with him.

 

What good was protecting your loved ones if you could not be happy with them? Contro felt a smile of his own forming on his face. He knew now events played just as they were supposed to. His son had a moment of true joy. That alone was worth sacrificing a day of harsh, serious training.

 

As Spade’s laughter calmed, he turned and saw Chess smiling at him. The purple eyed young man gave a contented sigh and gave his best friend a hardy pat on the shoulder as he remained laying on the ground.

 

“Now that’s what I want to see,” he said in a calm, tired tone. “My best friend with a big old smile. That’s the spirit, pal.” Spade’s arm fell limp after patting Chess, too exhausted to continue. The green haired, ram horned naturman closed his eyes and shook his head, still keeping his peaceful smile. Contro watched, his negative emotions gone. All he felt was gratitude that his son, the last of his family, found happiness today. His son turned his head up, and they locked eyes. Spade still failed to notice Contro was there. Chess simply stared at him, and lost his smile. Silence fell between them. Then Contro gave a reassuring nod and turned away. Without saying a word, the Guardian of Might walked back to where he came from. He left his son and his best friend undisturbed, not wanting to ruin the happiness they rightfully earned.

 

Chess watched as his father quietly left, grateful he finally understood. As the noble warrior walked away and slowly disappeared from his sights, he breathed a deep sigh of relief. A wisp of cold vapor blew from his mouth. He looked down at Spade, who had finally ended his breathy, yet lively laughter. The friends locked eyes, and the Tenacious spoke.

 

“Well, I don’t know about you, pal, but I think I’ve had enough snowy shenanigans for one day.” Chess sighed heavily and lowered his head.

 

“That makes both of us,” he said, slowly getting to his feet. “Come on. Let’s go home.” He offered Spade his hand to help him up, and the blade wielding warrior accepted with a smile. Getting to his feet step by step, Spade stretched his arms up high and yawned. He and Chess looked west, the direction Oldhills was. The clouds in the sky began to break. The snow stopped falling, and behind the clouds the setting sun dimmed the evening sky.

 

“Dinner is on me,” Spade said, turning to face Chess.

 

“Thanks,” Chess replied. With that, the two young men started their travel back home. It will be dark by the time they return. Then, there will be a lively evening meal with their friends. For now, the adventures in snowy shenanigans were over. Spade could not help but feel a boost in confidence for how well things went. He straightened his back and held his chin high with pride.

 

“Nobody, not even the mighty Guardian of Might is a match for my spiritual desire for fun,” he stated in a strangely profound, satisfied tone. “Any who threaten my quests for entertainment shall never succeed.” Chess nearly laughed out loud, but managed to hold it back, only letting out a small cough.

 

He chose to stay quiet. It would disappoint the Tenacious to know their shenanigans were in fact discovered, but thanks to a father’s desire for his child’s happiness above all else, they avoided the depressing fate of a spirit dimming reprimand.

 

They got off easy this time, but next time, the Guardian of Might will not be so mellow. There was no doubt what awaited Chess tomorrow: A day of grueling battle training. He was deeply grateful that today instead, he got to have fun with his best, closest friend.

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