Ficlets

Winter was harsh, brutal. Lightning flashed. The Thunder gods bestowed fire upon mighty Oak tree, but the animals courage waned in the knowledge of the bloodthirsty weasels, who controlled the island and the fire. The animals endured winter’s cold, moderately, while smoke rose from the island. Rabbit conceived of a plot to steal the fire.

Late in the evening, Rabbit swam the deep cold waters. He then spiked his fur with pine tar, and joined the weasels as they danced about a bonfire.

Rabbit danced beautifully. His spirited movement enamored the weasels.

“Lead us in dance, Rabbit”, the weasels exclaimed.

Rabbit would bow to the fire, then dance backwards. The weasels emulated the rabbit’s dance. Rabbit would step closer and closer to the fire with each bow; until finally the pine tar caught fire.

Rabbit ran.

“Catch him. He is stealing our fire”, the weasels screamed. He was too fast for them, and plunged into the water. Rabbit swam from the island with flames flickering from his head.