There was one Christmas that Bryce spent in Zeke's hometown. He'd naturally already met Zeke's relatives, but never stayed with them before. I'm sure they were very gracious and hospitable to him.

But Zeke started acting a certain way. You may have seen it if you've ever gone to stay where a friend grew up. Zeke took it upon himself to play the intrepid tour guide, showing his B-boy all the wonderful sights and activities the city of Moswakiskin has to offer.

And since it doesn't snow in Santa Fermata (yet), proper Canadian wintertime activities were near the top of Zeke's itinerary once the obligatory familial gatherings were out of the way (and he donned the dorky sweater his niece knitted for him).

Only he neglected to mention that he'd never actually gone iceskating before. He just assumed it would be easy. After all he sees little kids doing it.

For a snow moose it's a bit embarrassing. For anybody else it's like growing up in New York City and never visiting the Statue of Liberty. Understandable if you think about it, but it would have been better to state that up front.

Oh well. After Bryce gets Zeke back up on his feet, Zeke can work on getting Bryce back upright (he's hiding it very well but his back just gave out).

Artwork by  Kate-Venom!

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(Bryce and Zeke both usually shed their antlers around the holidays. Their toques aren’t just for warmth—it’s a little scabby and gross under there right now. Some cervids don’t bother hiding it; others keep it under a hat.)