Snowfest Writing Contest 2024: Maxicality's entry

Once again, it's that time of year. Where the ground is coated with snow and a bite is in the air. Where it feels heavenly to bundle up in blankets by the fire, roast s'mores, and drink hot chocolate. Yes, winter has truly arrived!

Zest can't be any more thrilled! Although he dislikes waking up cold, he's completely fine after putting on a few layers. He's sure to put on the perfect orange-themed sweater this time around. He races downstairs to meet with his partner, Berri, and tackles him in a tight embrace.

“Woah-hoh, good afternoon to you too,” Berri muses with a playful snort, earning a bright grin from Zest. He then suddenly shoves some gloves in the other feline's direction. “Put these on, we are making a snowcat!” Zest declares. Berri chuckles at this and complies, soon enough stumbling along behind Zest as he's dragged out the door.

“What do you want the snowcat to look like this time?” Berri asks as they both already begin constructing round bases from tightly compacted snow. Zest takes a while to answer this question, having only just now realized he had no plans for their snowcat this year. Silly him, he's been so busy, he forgot!

Berri easily takes notice of his partners expression, his gaze softening some. “How about one that looks like you?” He suggests, ruffling Zest's hair. This causes the smaller feline to brighten again. He agrees with an eager set of nods.

And then he's off to work again! Zest and Berri work together to make the snowcat come together. It has the classic three tiers and sticks for arms, with the addition of pointy ears and spiky face fur.

When finished, Zest takes a few steps back to observe their creation, tapping his chin. Hm.. Something feels like it's missing. Ah! Lightbulb! Zest suddenly rushes indoors, leaving Berri confused. He's quick to return with an oversized sweater, sliding it onto the snowcat version of him.

“Perfect!” Berri chirps, only to see Zest still shaking his head. “No, he's still missing something..” The other points out. Berri pouts at him. What could possibly be missing? “It's missing a snow-berri!”

And thus it begins all again. Remaking a second cat. And then a third and fourth and fifth to include their friends.. Oh boy.