WEBVTT 1 00:00:00.080 --> 00:00:02.640 And I want one you're putting. I got a string 2 00:00:02.799 --> 00:00:05.719 going on here. Something Just give my dog. Something killed 3 00:00:05.719 --> 00:00:08.599 your dog? My dog. We're flying through the air, over 4 00:00:08.640 --> 00:00:13.400 the tree. I don't know how it did it, Okay, Damn, 5 00:00:13.480 --> 00:00:16.000 I'm really confused. All I saw is my dog coming 6 00:00:16.000 --> 00:00:17.600 over the fence and he was dead. And once he 7 00:00:17.679 --> 00:00:19.679 hit the groulic, I didn't see any cars. All I 8 00:00:19.719 --> 00:00:38.320 saw was my dog coming over the fence. On what 9 00:00:38.439 --> 00:00:43.359 you were putting? We got someone or something frawling around 10 00:00:43.359 --> 00:00:52.000 out here? Did you see what it was? It was? 11 00:00:52.039 --> 00:00:54.240 It was seeing enough. I'm out here looking through the 12 00:00:54.280 --> 00:00:56.119 window now and I don't see anything. I don't want 13 00:00:56.119 --> 00:01:04.079 to go outside. Jesus Christ, you're better. Hello, Get the 14 00:01:04.120 --> 00:01:08.040 buddy out here. What quent on out there? An about? 15 00:01:08.560 --> 00:01:11.519 I don't know? Easy out there, Yeah, I'm right head. 16 00:01:12.519 --> 00:01:15.319 The last patches of winter snow clung stubbornly to the 17 00:01:15.319 --> 00:01:19.359 shaded corners of Whisperwood Forest. The morning air carried the 18 00:01:19.400 --> 00:01:23.519 promise of spring, fresh crisp and tinged with the scent 19 00:01:23.640 --> 00:01:27.799 of thawing earth. This was Bartholomew's favorite time of year, 20 00:01:28.280 --> 00:01:30.959 the quiet transition, when the forest seemed to hold its 21 00:01:31.000 --> 00:01:36.280 breath before exploding into vibrant life. Bartholomew, or Bart, as 22 00:01:36.280 --> 00:01:40.840 he preferred, was not your average forest dweller, Standing at 23 00:01:40.879 --> 00:01:43.560 eight feet tall with copper brown hair that rippled like 24 00:01:43.599 --> 00:01:46.799 wheat fields in a summer breeze. He was the last 25 00:01:46.840 --> 00:01:50.400 sasquatch in the Pacific Northwest, at least the last one 26 00:01:50.400 --> 00:01:53.640 he knew of. It had been decades since he'd encountered 27 00:01:53.640 --> 00:01:57.879 another of his kind. That particular morning, Bart was gathering 28 00:01:57.959 --> 00:02:00.959 early spring herbs for his tea collection when he noticed 29 00:02:00.959 --> 00:02:06.599 something unusual, tiny perfectly round footprints leading deeper into the forest. 30 00:02:07.400 --> 00:02:10.439 They were too orderly to belong to any normal woodland creature, 31 00:02:10.919 --> 00:02:14.639 and too small to be human. Curious, he decided to 32 00:02:14.680 --> 00:02:17.879 follow them. The footprints led him to a clearing where 33 00:02:17.879 --> 00:02:21.680 the snow had already melted, revealing tender green shoots reaching 34 00:02:21.719 --> 00:02:26.039 for sunlight. And there, beneath a gnarled old oak tree 35 00:02:26.319 --> 00:02:29.960 sat the most peculiar creature Bart had ever seen. It 36 00:02:30.039 --> 00:02:33.479 was a rabbit, but not just any rabbit. This one 37 00:02:33.520 --> 00:02:37.439 wore a meticulously tailored waistcoat with golden buttons that gleamed 38 00:02:37.479 --> 00:02:41.080 in the dappled sunlight. A small pocket watch dangled from 39 00:02:41.120 --> 00:02:44.199 a chain at its side. Most striking of all was 40 00:02:44.240 --> 00:02:47.599 the rabbit's pristine white fur, which seemed to glow with 41 00:02:47.680 --> 00:02:51.680 an inner light. The rabbit was muttering to itself, paws 42 00:02:51.759 --> 00:02:54.319 flying as it sorted through a collection of brightly colored 43 00:02:54.360 --> 00:02:58.680 eggs arranged in neat rows on a checkered cloth. No, no, no, 44 00:02:58.800 --> 00:03:02.960 the rabbit was saying. This simply won't do behind schedule again, 45 00:03:03.439 --> 00:03:08.400 and now this catastrophe. Bart knew he should retreat quietly. 46 00:03:08.960 --> 00:03:11.759 He'd spend his life avoiding detection by humans and other 47 00:03:11.800 --> 00:03:15.919 sentient beings, but something about the rabbit's obvious distress tugged 48 00:03:15.960 --> 00:03:18.759 at his heart. Before he could talk himself out of it, 49 00:03:19.039 --> 00:03:22.800 he cleared his throat. The rabbit jumped literally four feet 50 00:03:22.879 --> 00:03:26.599 straight up and spun around mid air. When it landed, 51 00:03:26.840 --> 00:03:30.960 its pink eyes were wide with alarm. Great googly Moogli, 52 00:03:31.039 --> 00:03:34.919 the rabbit exclaimed, a sasquatch. I thought your kind had 53 00:03:34.960 --> 00:03:38.680 moved to the Himalayas centuries ago. Bart was taken aback. 54 00:03:39.479 --> 00:03:41.599 You know what I am. 55 00:03:41.879 --> 00:03:45.120 Of course I do, the rabbit said, straightening its waistcoat. 56 00:03:45.120 --> 00:03:49.840 With dignified paws. Edmund Cottontail chief easter bunny, at your service. 57 00:03:50.439 --> 00:03:53.280 I've been delivering egg since before your great great grandparents 58 00:03:53.280 --> 00:03:56.639 were born. I've met all manner of creatures in my time. 59 00:03:57.400 --> 00:04:04.039 Bart blinked slowly the Easter bunny, you're real, Edmund rolled 60 00:04:04.039 --> 00:04:09.080 his eyes, says the sasquatch. Yes, I'm quite real, though 61 00:04:09.120 --> 00:04:11.680 I'd appreciate it if you kept that information to yourself. 62 00:04:12.400 --> 00:04:16.120 Anonymity is critical in my line of work. He glanced 63 00:04:16.160 --> 00:04:19.639 nervously at his pocket watch. And speaking of work, I'm 64 00:04:19.720 --> 00:04:23.920 in quite the pickle. What's wrong, Bart asked, lowering himself 65 00:04:24.000 --> 00:04:27.199 to sit cross legged on the forest floor. Even seated, 66 00:04:27.240 --> 00:04:31.920 he towered over the rabbit. Edmund's whiskers twitched anxiously. It's 67 00:04:31.959 --> 00:04:36.560 the Spring Equinox ceremony. Something's gone terribly wrong. The egg 68 00:04:36.560 --> 00:04:40.720 of Renewal has been stolen. The Egg of renewal, yes, 69 00:04:41.240 --> 00:04:44.000 the magical egg that infuses all Easter eggs with their 70 00:04:44.040 --> 00:04:49.120 special properties. Without it, Easter won't happen. Children worldwide will 71 00:04:49.160 --> 00:04:52.600 wake up to empty baskets. Spring's arrival will be delayed, 72 00:04:53.000 --> 00:04:56.439 and worst of all, Edmund lowered his voice to a whisper, 73 00:04:57.000 --> 00:05:01.720 winter might never end. Bart frowned. He enjoyed winter, but 74 00:05:01.800 --> 00:05:05.079 even he looked forward to spring's arrival. Who would steal 75 00:05:05.120 --> 00:05:07.879 such a thing? That's what I need to find out, 76 00:05:08.040 --> 00:05:11.279 Edmund said, pacing now. But I've got millions of eggs 77 00:05:11.319 --> 00:05:14.920 to prepare, roots to plan, and only ten days until Easter. 78 00:05:15.480 --> 00:05:18.120 I simply don't have time to launch a proper investigation. 79 00:05:19.120 --> 00:05:21.360 Edmund stopped pacing and looked up at Bart with a 80 00:05:21.399 --> 00:05:25.360 sudden gleam in his pink eyes. Say you wouldn't happen 81 00:05:25.399 --> 00:05:27.879 to be busy, would you? For a creature of your 82 00:05:28.399 --> 00:05:32.720 legendary status, tracking down a magical egg should be child's play. 83 00:05:33.639 --> 00:05:38.360 Bart stroked his long beard thoughtfully. He'd spent decades avoiding adventure, 84 00:05:38.839 --> 00:05:42.639 preferring the quiet solitude of his forest home. But something 85 00:05:42.639 --> 00:05:47.319 about Edmund's desperate situation called to him. Plus, the idea 86 00:05:47.360 --> 00:05:51.199 of an endless winter was genuinely concerning. I suppose I 87 00:05:51.199 --> 00:05:54.079 could help, he said slowly. But I wouldn't know where 88 00:05:54.079 --> 00:05:58.160 to start looking for a magical egg. Edmund's face lit up. 89 00:05:58.759 --> 00:06:02.519 Oh wonderful. I have a few leads. The egg was 90 00:06:02.600 --> 00:06:06.040 last seen in the warrant that's my headquarters, beneath the 91 00:06:06.040 --> 00:06:10.079 Whispering Hills. I noticed it missing just this morning. There 92 00:06:10.079 --> 00:06:14.560 were unusual tracks leading away from the vault. What kind 93 00:06:14.560 --> 00:06:19.879 of tracks, Edmund's expression darkened. Frost tracks the kind that 94 00:06:19.959 --> 00:06:25.040 only one creature leaves behind, and that creature is Jack Frost, 95 00:06:25.199 --> 00:06:28.839 Edmund said grimly. He's always been jealous of spring holidays. 96 00:06:29.399 --> 00:06:31.759 If he's taken the egg of Renewal, he might be 97 00:06:31.800 --> 00:06:36.839 planning to keep winter going indefinitely. Bart nodded slowly, So 98 00:06:36.920 --> 00:06:39.240 we need to find this Jack Frost and recover the 99 00:06:39.279 --> 00:06:44.600 egg before Easter we Edmond's ears perked up. You'll really help, 100 00:06:45.399 --> 00:06:50.279 Bart surprised himself with his answer, Yes, I will, and 101 00:06:50.360 --> 00:06:53.879 so began the most unusual partnership the magical world had 102 00:06:53.879 --> 00:06:58.560 ever seen. A reclusive sasquatch and the easter bunny united 103 00:06:58.600 --> 00:07:01.800 to save Spring itself. The entrance to the war and 104 00:07:02.000 --> 00:07:05.439 wasn't what Bart expected. He'd imagined a simple rabbit hole, 105 00:07:06.040 --> 00:07:10.199 perhaps slightly larger than normal. Instead, Edmond led him to 106 00:07:10.240 --> 00:07:13.639 an ancient willow tree whose sweeping branches created a natural 107 00:07:13.639 --> 00:07:18.439 curtain around its massive trunk. Stand back, Edmond instructed, Pulling 108 00:07:18.439 --> 00:07:22.040 a carrot shaped key from his waistcoat pocket, he inserted 109 00:07:22.040 --> 00:07:23.720 it into what appeared to be a knot in the 110 00:07:23.759 --> 00:07:27.920 tree's bark and turned it three times clockwise. The ground 111 00:07:27.920 --> 00:07:31.600 beneath their feet began to rumble. Slowly, the earth between 112 00:07:31.600 --> 00:07:36.519 the willow's roots parted, revealing a staircase spiraling downward. Warm 113 00:07:36.600 --> 00:07:40.360 golden light spilled out from below. Welcome to the Warren, 114 00:07:40.600 --> 00:07:44.800 Edmond said, proudly. Watch your head. Bart had to crouch 115 00:07:44.839 --> 00:07:49.079 significantly to enter the underground passage. The staircase widened as 116 00:07:49.120 --> 00:07:53.360 they descended, accommodating his bulk more comfortably. The walls were 117 00:07:53.399 --> 00:07:56.639 lined with phosphorescent moss that glowed in shades of blue 118 00:07:56.680 --> 00:08:00.279 and green, illuminating their way. I've lived it in these 119 00:08:00.279 --> 00:08:03.519 woods for over two hundred years, Bart marveled, I never 120 00:08:03.560 --> 00:08:07.199 knew this was here. That's rather the point Edmund replied. 121 00:08:07.720 --> 00:08:11.759 We've got concealment charms, misdirection spells, and a very strict 122 00:08:11.879 --> 00:08:15.560 no humans policy. Though I must say I'm surprised our 123 00:08:15.600 --> 00:08:20.279 paths haven't crossed before. The magical community isn't that large. 124 00:08:20.319 --> 00:08:23.519 I tend to keep to myself, Bart admitted, after humans 125 00:08:23.519 --> 00:08:28.439 started carrying those tiny cameras everywhere, it seemed safer. Edmond 126 00:08:28.519 --> 00:08:32.960 nodded sympathetically. Social media has been the bane of magical creatures. 127 00:08:33.000 --> 00:08:33.519 Everywhere. 128 00:08:34.080 --> 00:08:36.320 You wouldn't believe how many close calls I've had with 129 00:08:36.440 --> 00:08:41.399 ring doorbells. The staircase finally opened into a vast underground 130 00:08:41.399 --> 00:08:44.720 cavern that took Bart's breath away. It was a sprawling 131 00:08:44.799 --> 00:08:48.960 underground city, bustling with activity. Hundreds of rabbits and colorful 132 00:08:48.960 --> 00:08:53.279 waistcoats and dresses hopped about purposefully. Some pushed carts laden 133 00:08:53.320 --> 00:08:57.480 with eggs, others operated intricate machinery that painted designs on 134 00:08:57.600 --> 00:09:01.559 eggs with precision, and still others insulted. Charts and maps 135 00:09:01.759 --> 00:09:06.799 spread across large tables. Egg Central, Edmund announced where Easter 136 00:09:06.919 --> 00:09:11.399 magic happens. Rabbit stopped to stare as Bart entered. Some 137 00:09:11.480 --> 00:09:13.399 looked frightened, others curious. 138 00:09:14.039 --> 00:09:17.360 A few of the older ones nodded respectfully. Colleagues. 139 00:09:17.480 --> 00:09:21.799 Edmund addressed the crowd. This is Bartholomew. He's a sasquatch, 140 00:09:22.120 --> 00:09:25.559 and he's here to help us with our situation. Please 141 00:09:25.600 --> 00:09:30.320 afford him every courtesy. Murmurs rippled through the assembly. A 142 00:09:30.360 --> 00:09:35.559 gray furred rabbit with spectacles hopped forward Edmund a word. 143 00:09:36.279 --> 00:09:41.240 Edmund sighed, Bart, this is Thattius, my chief operations officer. 144 00:09:41.799 --> 00:09:42.360 Thattius. 145 00:09:42.840 --> 00:09:48.080 Play nice Thaddeus adjusted his spectacles with a paw. Mister Edmund, 146 00:09:48.360 --> 00:09:51.480 with all due respect, bringing an outsider into the warren 147 00:09:51.559 --> 00:09:55.720 during a crisis. A sasquatch, no less their kind hasn't 148 00:09:55.720 --> 00:09:59.799 been involved in the magical community for centuries. Precisely why 149 00:09:59.799 --> 00:10:03.120 he perfect for this mission, Edmund countered, Jack won't be 150 00:10:03.159 --> 00:10:06.080 expecting him, and Bart has agreed to help track down 151 00:10:06.120 --> 00:10:10.919 the egg of renewal. Thattius's nose twitched rapidly, a sure 152 00:10:11.000 --> 00:10:14.159 sign of agitation, and how do we know he wasn't 153 00:10:14.200 --> 00:10:18.440 involved in its theft? Bart cleared his throat, causing both 154 00:10:18.519 --> 00:10:22.639 rabbits to look up. I understand your caution, thatteus, But 155 00:10:22.759 --> 00:10:25.399 until this morning, I didn't even know the Easter bunny 156 00:10:25.480 --> 00:10:28.639 was real. I certainly had no knowledge of any magical 157 00:10:28.679 --> 00:10:33.840 eggs see Edmund said triumphantly. Besides, we're running out of 158 00:10:33.879 --> 00:10:36.759 options in time now I need to show Bart the 159 00:10:36.799 --> 00:10:40.440 vault keep production moving. We must proceed as though Easter 160 00:10:40.519 --> 00:10:44.519 will happen on schedule. Thattius didn't look convinced, but hopped 161 00:10:44.559 --> 00:10:49.279 away after giving Bart one last suspicious glance. Don't mind him, 162 00:10:49.440 --> 00:10:52.679 Edmund said, as he led Bart through the bustling underground city. 163 00:10:53.279 --> 00:10:56.080 He's been high strung since the Great Jellybean Shortage of 164 00:10:56.159 --> 00:11:00.279 ninety eight. They passed through a series of increasingly allowedabric 165 00:11:00.320 --> 00:11:03.080 tunnels until they reached an imposing door made of what 166 00:11:03.159 --> 00:11:07.799 appeared to be solid gold. Intricate carvings depicted rabbits delivering 167 00:11:07.799 --> 00:11:13.600 eggs to children across different historical periods. The chronivault, Edmund explained, 168 00:11:14.120 --> 00:11:18.360 where we keep our most precious magical artifacts. He placed 169 00:11:18.360 --> 00:11:20.960 his paw on a rabbit shaped indentation in the door. 170 00:11:21.600 --> 00:11:25.279 It glowed briefly, and the massive door swung open silently. 171 00:11:26.200 --> 00:11:30.320 Inside was a circular chamber lined with pedestals. Each pedestal 172 00:11:30.360 --> 00:11:34.360 held a different artifact, a paint brush with ever changing bristles, 173 00:11:34.919 --> 00:11:38.440 a time piece with backwards moving hands, a basket that 174 00:11:38.480 --> 00:11:42.080 seemed to contain an impossible number of eggs. But one 175 00:11:42.120 --> 00:11:45.240 pedestal in the center stood empty, with a sign reading 176 00:11:45.600 --> 00:11:49.919 egg of renewal beside it. Here's where it happened, Edmund said, grimly. 177 00:11:50.600 --> 00:11:53.360 The egg was taken some time between midnight and dawn. 178 00:11:53.960 --> 00:11:58.679 Our security spells were bypassed with expert precision. Bart knelt 179 00:11:58.679 --> 00:12:03.279 to examine the empty pedestal you mentioned frost tracks. Yes, 180 00:12:03.639 --> 00:12:07.360 right here. Sure enough, a trail of delicate frost patterns 181 00:12:07.440 --> 00:12:10.519 led from the pedestal to the vault door. The patterns 182 00:12:10.519 --> 00:12:14.679 were crystalline and beautiful, tiny ice ferns that hadn't melted 183 00:12:14.720 --> 00:12:17.960 despite the warm temperature of the warren. They lead all 184 00:12:17.960 --> 00:12:20.360 the way out of the warren and into the Whispering Hills, 185 00:12:20.480 --> 00:12:24.600 Edmund explained, but they stop abruptly at Moonstone Creek. We 186 00:12:24.720 --> 00:12:29.000 lost the trail there. Bart nodded, thoughtfully, Tell me about 187 00:12:29.000 --> 00:12:33.679 this Jack Frost. What's his quarrel with Easter? Edmund sighed heavily. 188 00:12:34.360 --> 00:12:37.120 It's a long story. Jack and I were friends once 189 00:12:37.399 --> 00:12:41.519 centuries ago, both of us seasonal spirits, though serving different 190 00:12:41.519 --> 00:12:44.639 times of year. But Jack has always felt that winter 191 00:12:44.720 --> 00:12:48.440 doesn't get its due. Christmas overshadows most of his season, 192 00:12:48.919 --> 00:12:51.840 and then Easter comes along to essentially kick winter out 193 00:12:51.840 --> 00:12:56.840 the door. So this is about jealousy partly, but there's 194 00:12:56.879 --> 00:12:59.639 more to it. Three years ago there was a dispute 195 00:12:59.639 --> 00:13:03.559 about seasonal boundaries. Spring came early and Jack felt I 196 00:13:03.559 --> 00:13:08.440 had encroached on his territory. Words were exchanged, magical pranks 197 00:13:08.559 --> 00:13:14.159 escalated into genuine hostility. We haven't spoken since Bart considered 198 00:13:14.159 --> 00:13:17.840 this information. If Jack Frost took the egg of renewal 199 00:13:17.879 --> 00:13:21.799 to prevent spring, where would he hide it. That's the question, 200 00:13:21.960 --> 00:13:26.720 isn't it. Edmond's ears drooped slightly. Jack has dominion over 201 00:13:26.799 --> 00:13:30.080 all places touched by Frost. That's a lot of territory 202 00:13:30.080 --> 00:13:33.120 this time of year. Then we need to narrow it down, 203 00:13:33.279 --> 00:13:36.440 Bart said, rising to his full height. If I were 204 00:13:36.519 --> 00:13:38.960 hiding something I'd stolen, I wouldn't take it to my 205 00:13:39.000 --> 00:13:43.240 own home. That's the first place anyone would look. Edmond's 206 00:13:43.279 --> 00:13:46.919 eyes widened. You're right, and Jack knows I know all 207 00:13:46.960 --> 00:13:52.200 his usual haunts. He choose somewhere unexpected. Bart continued, somewhere 208 00:13:52.240 --> 00:13:55.440 with significance to him, but that you wouldn't immediately think of. 209 00:13:56.679 --> 00:14:02.159 Edmond paced in small circles, his paws clasped by his back. Think, Edmund, 210 00:14:02.639 --> 00:14:07.639 think wait. There's a place Jack mentioned once, a crystal 211 00:14:07.639 --> 00:14:11.320 cave behind the Northern Falls. He called it his thinking spot. 212 00:14:11.799 --> 00:14:15.679 Said he went there when he needed solitude. That sounds promising, 213 00:14:15.720 --> 00:14:19.240 Bart agreed. How do we get there? It's a journey, 214 00:14:19.360 --> 00:14:22.480 Edmund admitted, at least a day's travel through the forest 215 00:14:22.799 --> 00:14:25.720 and then up into the mountains. And the cave itself 216 00:14:25.759 --> 00:14:29.279 is said to be guarded by ice sprites, mischievous little 217 00:14:29.320 --> 00:14:33.159 things loyal to Jack. Bart smiled for the first time 218 00:14:33.240 --> 00:14:37.120 since entering the warren. Fortunately, I know these woods better 219 00:14:37.159 --> 00:14:41.480 than anyone, and I'm rather good at avoiding detection. Edmund 220 00:14:41.480 --> 00:14:45.240 looked up at the gentle giant with newfound appreciation. I 221 00:14:45.279 --> 00:14:48.600 believe I found the perfect partner for this quest. We 222 00:14:48.600 --> 00:14:52.320 should leave immediately. Bart suggested, every hour counts if we're 223 00:14:52.360 --> 00:14:56.440 going to recover the egg before Easter. Edmund nodded decisively. 224 00:14:57.080 --> 00:14:59.480 I'll need to grab a few things. Meet me by 225 00:14:59.480 --> 00:15:03.679 the willow in fifteen minutes. As Edmund hopped away, Bart 226 00:15:03.720 --> 00:15:07.559 looked around at the impressive underground operation. Rabbits were still 227 00:15:07.600 --> 00:15:10.840 staring at him, though with more curiosity than fear. Now 228 00:15:11.559 --> 00:15:13.559 he couldn't help but marvel at how much of the 229 00:15:13.559 --> 00:15:18.279 magical world had existed alongside him all these years, completely unnoticed. 230 00:15:19.039 --> 00:15:22.320 For a creature who had spent centuries avoiding adventure, Bart 231 00:15:22.320 --> 00:15:26.559 found himself strangely excited about the journey ahead. Perhaps it 232 00:15:26.600 --> 00:15:30.559 was time to emerge from his self imposed isolation. Perhaps, 233 00:15:30.879 --> 00:15:33.960 just maybe this was exactly what he had been waiting for. 234 00:15:35.200 --> 00:15:38.159 Fifteen minutes later, Bart waited by the willow tree, his 235 00:15:38.240 --> 00:15:41.799 own small pack of supplies strapped across his broad shoulders. 236 00:15:42.559 --> 00:15:45.480 He'd returned briefly to his hidden cabin to gather essentials 237 00:15:46.039 --> 00:15:49.559 dried berries, herbs for tea, a compass that had belonged 238 00:15:49.600 --> 00:15:52.320 to his grandfather, and a well worn journal in which 239 00:15:52.360 --> 00:15:57.200 he recorded forest observations. Edmund emerged from the Warren entrance 240 00:15:57.279 --> 00:16:00.720 right on time, now sporting a green backpack that seemed 241 00:16:00.840 --> 00:16:05.480 disproportionately large for his size. The rabbit had also exchanged 242 00:16:05.519 --> 00:16:08.759 his formal waistcoat for a more practical explorer's vest with 243 00:16:08.840 --> 00:16:13.279 numerous pockets. Ready for an adventure, Edmond asked, adjusting a 244 00:16:13.320 --> 00:16:16.120 tiny compass hanging from his neck, as. 245 00:16:16.000 --> 00:16:19.600 I'll ever be, Bart replied, what's our route? 246 00:16:19.759 --> 00:16:21.679 Edmond pulled out a map from one of his many 247 00:16:21.720 --> 00:16:25.120 pockets and spread it on the ground. It was unlike 248 00:16:25.159 --> 00:16:28.240 any map Bart had seen before. The paper seemed to 249 00:16:28.240 --> 00:16:31.840 shimmer with an inner light, and the landmarks moved subtly 250 00:16:32.200 --> 00:16:35.919 as if breathing. This is a living map, Edmund explained, 251 00:16:36.480 --> 00:16:40.679 shows actual conditions in real time. Look, here's the Warren. 252 00:16:41.440 --> 00:16:44.200 He pointed to a glowing point on the map, and 253 00:16:44.279 --> 00:16:47.240 here's the northern falls where we believe Jack might have 254 00:16:47.320 --> 00:16:51.720 hidden the egg. Bart studied the map. Between their location 255 00:16:51.840 --> 00:16:55.159 and the Northern Falls lay miles of dense forest, a 256 00:16:55.200 --> 00:16:58.600 wide river, and finally the craggy foothills that led to 257 00:16:58.639 --> 00:17:02.039 the mountains. Proper, that's at least a two day journey, 258 00:17:02.039 --> 00:17:06.039 Bart noted on foot. Yes, Edmund agreed, which is why 259 00:17:06.039 --> 00:17:10.240 I've arranged for transportation. He checked his pocket watch, should 260 00:17:10.279 --> 00:17:13.440 be here any moment, As if on cue. The sound 261 00:17:13.480 --> 00:17:16.559 of flapping wings filled the air. Bart looked up to 262 00:17:16.599 --> 00:17:18.880 see an enormous owl descending toward them. 263 00:17:19.480 --> 00:17:20.400 Its feathers were a. 264 00:17:20.359 --> 00:17:24.160 Mottled brown and gray, perfect for blending into the forest canopy, 265 00:17:24.559 --> 00:17:26.880 and its wingspan must have been at least twelve feet 266 00:17:26.880 --> 00:17:32.279 across ah Right on time, Edmund exclaimed, Bart, meet Athena, 267 00:17:32.680 --> 00:17:35.319 the wisest owl, and whisper would and our lift for 268 00:17:35.359 --> 00:17:39.119 the first leg of our journey. The massive owl landed 269 00:17:39.160 --> 00:17:42.759 gracefully before them, her amber eyes fixing on Bart with 270 00:17:42.839 --> 00:17:47.559 undisguised curiosity. A sasquatch, she said, in a voice like 271 00:17:47.640 --> 00:17:51.559 rustling leaves. How extraordinary. I haven't had the pleasure in 272 00:17:51.599 --> 00:17:55.839 at least a century. Bart bowed his head respectfully. The 273 00:17:55.920 --> 00:17:58.960 honor is mine. I'd heard tales of great owls in 274 00:17:59.000 --> 00:18:03.240 these woods, but I thought them just stories. Most stories 275 00:18:03.279 --> 00:18:06.160 have a kernel of truth, Athena replied, But we can 276 00:18:06.160 --> 00:18:11.079 philosophize later. Edmund tells me, you're on an urgent mission. Indeed, 277 00:18:11.240 --> 00:18:13.880 Edmund confirmed, we need to reach the edge of the 278 00:18:13.880 --> 00:18:15.200 Great River by nightfall. 279 00:18:15.640 --> 00:18:16.400 Can you assist? 280 00:18:17.359 --> 00:18:20.160 Athena bobbed her head in what was clearly an affirmative. 281 00:18:20.920 --> 00:18:24.880 The sasquatch is substantial, but I can manage the weight. 282 00:18:25.480 --> 00:18:30.240 Climb aboard both of you. Bart hesitated, I've never flown before. 283 00:18:31.160 --> 00:18:35.119 Few creatures your size have. Athena noted dryly, but fear not. 284 00:18:35.839 --> 00:18:39.000 My magic allows me to carry many times my natural capacity. 285 00:18:39.480 --> 00:18:40.480 You'll be quite safe. 286 00:18:41.519 --> 00:18:45.480 Somewhat awkwardly, Bart climbed onto the owl's back, settling between 287 00:18:45.480 --> 00:18:49.920 her powerful shoulders. Edmund hopped up with practiced ease, sitting 288 00:18:50.000 --> 00:18:52.880 just in front of Bart. Hold tight to my feathers, 289 00:18:52.880 --> 00:18:56.240 Athena instructed, and whatever you do, don't look down if 290 00:18:56.279 --> 00:19:00.480 heights make you queasy. Before Bart could respond, the great 291 00:19:00.480 --> 00:19:02.799 owl spread her wings and pushed off from the ground 292 00:19:02.799 --> 00:19:06.680 with her powerful legs. Two mighty wing beats. Later, they 293 00:19:06.680 --> 00:19:11.759 were airborne, rising swiftly above the forest canopy. Bart's stomach lurched, 294 00:19:12.079 --> 00:19:15.519 but he found the sensation oddly exhilarating rather than frightening. 295 00:19:16.240 --> 00:19:18.799 He'd seen his forest home from many vantage points over 296 00:19:18.839 --> 00:19:23.319 the centuries, but never from above. It was breathtaking, a 297 00:19:23.359 --> 00:19:27.200 sea of green stretching for miles in every direction, bisected 298 00:19:27.200 --> 00:19:28.920 by the silver ribbon of the great River. 299 00:19:29.880 --> 00:19:31.079 Amazing, he breathed. 300 00:19:31.839 --> 00:19:34.680 First flight, always is, Edmund called back over his shoulder. 301 00:19:35.160 --> 00:19:38.759 This will save us hours of travel time. They soared higher, 302 00:19:39.200 --> 00:19:43.440 catching thermal currents that allowed Athena to glide effortlessly. The 303 00:19:43.519 --> 00:19:46.240 owl seemed to know exactly which air currents to ride, 304 00:19:46.720 --> 00:19:50.039 minimizing the need for wing beats despite her heavy cargo. 305 00:19:50.920 --> 00:19:53.960 So Athena said, as they leveled off, Edmond tells me 306 00:19:54.000 --> 00:19:57.359 the Egg of Renewal has been stolen. Troubling news. Indeed, 307 00:19:58.359 --> 00:20:01.920 you know of the egg, Bart asked, All ancient magical 308 00:20:01.960 --> 00:20:04.839 beings know of it. Athena replied, It's one of the 309 00:20:04.880 --> 00:20:09.680 primordial artifacts created when magic first entered this world. Its 310 00:20:09.720 --> 00:20:13.640 power ensures the proper transition of seasons. Without it, the 311 00:20:13.720 --> 00:20:18.079 natural order could fall into chaos. Edmund mentioned, winner might 312 00:20:18.119 --> 00:20:21.279 never end. Bart said that would be just the beginning. 313 00:20:21.279 --> 00:20:25.440 Athena warned, the egg doesn't just mark spring's arrival. It 314 00:20:25.480 --> 00:20:29.759 maintains the balance between all seasons. Without it, weather patterns 315 00:20:29.759 --> 00:20:34.599 would become erratic, floods, droughts, unseasonable storms within a year, 316 00:20:34.880 --> 00:20:38.559 Crops would fail worldwide. Bart felt a new weight of 317 00:20:38.599 --> 00:20:44.119 responsibility settle on his shoulders. No wonder Edmund is so worried. Indeed, 318 00:20:44.119 --> 00:20:47.400 the Owl agreed, and if Jack Frost is behind the theft, 319 00:20:47.759 --> 00:20:52.480 his motivation may be darker than simple jealousy. There are rumors. 320 00:20:53.519 --> 00:20:57.160 What kind of rumors, Edmond asked, his ears twitching with concern. 321 00:20:58.079 --> 00:21:00.799 Whispers that Jack has been consorting with the Shadow Court, 322 00:21:00.839 --> 00:21:06.119 Athena said gravely. Edmund gasped the Shadow Court, But they 323 00:21:06.119 --> 00:21:10.559 were banished centuries ago. Who are the Shadow Court? Bart asked, 324 00:21:11.000 --> 00:21:13.960 Feeling increasingly out of his depth in this magical world. 325 00:21:14.920 --> 00:21:19.319 Edmond turned to face him, his expression grim ancient beings 326 00:21:19.359 --> 00:21:22.559 who feed on fear and discord. They once held great 327 00:21:22.599 --> 00:21:25.000 power in the magical realm, until they were cast out 328 00:21:25.039 --> 00:21:27.920 for attempting to upset the balance between light and dark. 329 00:21:28.920 --> 00:21:31.359 If they've made contact with Jack and convinced him to 330 00:21:31.359 --> 00:21:34.599 steal the egg. Athena continued, Then this theft may be 331 00:21:34.680 --> 00:21:37.799 part of a larger plan to destabilize the magical world. 332 00:21:38.640 --> 00:21:42.240 Bart frowned, But why would Jack frost ally himself with 333 00:21:42.279 --> 00:21:46.920 such beings power, perhaps, Edmond mused. Or they may have 334 00:21:47.000 --> 00:21:50.920 offered him something he desperately wants. Jack has always felt 335 00:21:51.000 --> 00:21:57.039 underappreciated compared to other seasonal spirits. A dangerous situation, Athena concluded, 336 00:21:57.599 --> 00:22:00.960 one that makes your mission all the more critical. They 337 00:22:01.000 --> 00:22:04.640 flew in thoughtful silence for some time, each contemplating the 338 00:22:04.680 --> 00:22:09.079 implications of what they discussed below them. The forest gradually 339 00:22:09.119 --> 00:22:12.160 gave way to more open terrain, and the Great River 340 00:22:12.240 --> 00:22:16.400 grew wider as smaller tributaries joined its flow. After about 341 00:22:16.440 --> 00:22:20.200 an hour of flight, Athena began to descend. We're approaching 342 00:22:20.200 --> 00:22:23.880 the Whispering Hills. I'll need to land and rest before continuing. 343 00:22:24.880 --> 00:22:28.119 She circled lower, eventually touching down in a small clearing 344 00:22:28.160 --> 00:22:32.359 near the river bank. Bart and Edmund dismounted. Bart stretching 345 00:22:32.359 --> 00:22:35.839 his cramped limbs. Gratefully, thank you for the lift, he 346 00:22:35.920 --> 00:22:39.920 told the owl. Sincerely, I'll rest here briefly. Athena replied, 347 00:22:40.559 --> 00:22:42.240 then I can take you to the foothills of the 348 00:22:42.279 --> 00:22:45.920 northern mountains, but I cannot go beyond that. The high 349 00:22:45.960 --> 00:22:50.359 winds near the falls would make flying too dangerous. We understand, 350 00:22:50.519 --> 00:22:53.680 Edmund assured her. Your help is invaluable as it is. 351 00:22:54.839 --> 00:22:58.720 While Athena rested, perched regally on a fallen log, Bart 352 00:22:58.759 --> 00:23:01.839 and Edmund explored the clearing the rabbit hopped to the 353 00:23:01.880 --> 00:23:05.920 river bank, studying the water with concern. The river's higher 354 00:23:06.000 --> 00:23:09.000 than usual for this time of year. He noted, another 355 00:23:09.039 --> 00:23:13.039 sign that the seasons are already being affected. Bart knelt 356 00:23:13.079 --> 00:23:16.480 beside him, observing the rushing water. Will we need to 357 00:23:16.519 --> 00:23:20.799 cross it eventually? Yes, Edmond confirmed, but there's a bridge 358 00:23:20.799 --> 00:23:23.920 a few miles upstream. Athena can drop us there. After 359 00:23:23.960 --> 00:23:27.240 her rest, Bart nodded and was about to stand when 360 00:23:27.279 --> 00:23:31.119 something caught his eye, A tiny glittering object caught between 361 00:23:31.160 --> 00:23:35.599 two rocks at the water's edge. Carefully, he reached for it. 362 00:23:35.599 --> 00:23:38.680 It was a small crystal, no larger than his fingertip, 363 00:23:39.039 --> 00:23:43.519 but unnaturally cold to the touch. Frost patterns radiated outward 364 00:23:43.519 --> 00:23:47.599 from it despite the warm spring air. Edmund he called, 365 00:23:48.119 --> 00:23:52.200 look at this the rabbit examined the crystal with widening eyes. 366 00:23:52.880 --> 00:23:55.680 It's one of Jack's frost seeds. He uses them to 367 00:23:55.680 --> 00:23:59.640 spread winter conditions rapidly over large areas. And what's it 368 00:23:59.680 --> 00:24:03.640 doing here, Bart asked. I'm not sure, Edmond admitted, but 369 00:24:03.720 --> 00:24:06.880 it confirms we're on the right track. Jack has definitely 370 00:24:06.880 --> 00:24:10.599 been in this area recently. A soft hoot from Athena 371 00:24:10.680 --> 00:24:14.960 drew their attention. The owl had tilted her head, listening intently. 372 00:24:15.759 --> 00:24:19.759 We're not alone, she warned. Bart's heightened senses kicked in 373 00:24:19.799 --> 00:24:23.759 immediately he heard it. Now subtle movements in the underbrush 374 00:24:23.799 --> 00:24:28.440 surrounding the clearing, too coordinated to be woodland creatures. Get 375 00:24:28.480 --> 00:24:32.000 behind me, he told Edmund, rising to his full impressive height. 376 00:24:32.839 --> 00:24:36.359 From the tree line emerged a dozen small, translucent figures. 377 00:24:37.000 --> 00:24:41.000 They resembled tiny humans, made entirely of ice, no taller 378 00:24:41.039 --> 00:24:42.480 than Bart's knee. 379 00:24:42.519 --> 00:24:43.440 Their features were. 380 00:24:43.319 --> 00:24:46.480 Sharp and angular, and their eyes glowed with a cold 381 00:24:46.519 --> 00:24:47.119 blue light. 382 00:24:48.119 --> 00:24:48.799 Ice sprites. 383 00:24:48.960 --> 00:24:53.680 Edmund whispered, Jack's scouts and foot soldiers. The ice sprites 384 00:24:53.680 --> 00:24:58.200 formed a circle around them, Their movements synchronized with unnerving precision. 385 00:24:58.920 --> 00:25:03.839 One sprite lightly larger than the others, stepped forward, and 386 00:25:04.039 --> 00:25:04.920 stay tuned for more. 387 00:25:04.960 --> 00:25:05.920 Sasquatch ot to see. 388 00:25:05.920 --> 00:25:13.720 We'll be right back after these messages, the sasquatch and 389 00:25:13.759 --> 00:25:16.519 the easter bunny, it said, in a voice like cracking ice. 390 00:25:17.240 --> 00:25:19.920 Our master said you might come this way. He sent 391 00:25:20.000 --> 00:25:23.039 us to deliver a message. And what message is that, 392 00:25:23.319 --> 00:25:27.480 Bart asked calmly, though his muscles tensed for action. The 393 00:25:27.559 --> 00:25:32.319 lead sprite smiled, revealing teeth like tiny icicles. Winter is 394 00:25:32.319 --> 00:25:35.640 coming to stay. The age of renewal is over. The 395 00:25:35.680 --> 00:25:42.319 egg has been repurposed. Edmund hopped forward indignantly. That's preposterous. 396 00:25:42.839 --> 00:25:45.920 The egg can't be repurposed. Its magic is bound to 397 00:25:45.960 --> 00:25:50.680 the natural cycle. Not anymore, the sprite countered with chilling certainty. 398 00:25:51.279 --> 00:25:54.400 Our master has found a way. Even now, he uses 399 00:25:54.440 --> 00:25:58.519 the egg's power to extend Winter's grasp. Soon all will 400 00:25:58.519 --> 00:26:02.440 be frozen in eternal perfection. Jack has gone too far, 401 00:26:02.599 --> 00:26:07.400 Athena declared, spreading her wings imposingly. Tell your master that 402 00:26:07.480 --> 00:26:11.079 interfering with the egg will have consequences beyond his imagining. 403 00:26:11.960 --> 00:26:15.960 The sprite laughed, a sound like breaking glass. Or what 404 00:26:16.720 --> 00:26:20.000 you'll stop him? The owl who can't fly in high winds. 405 00:26:20.559 --> 00:26:23.400 The bunny who's too busy with his painted eggs, the 406 00:26:23.440 --> 00:26:27.519 sasquatch who spent centuries hiding from the world. Bart felt 407 00:26:27.519 --> 00:26:30.359 a rumble of anger begin deep in his chest. You 408 00:26:30.480 --> 00:26:32.599 tell Jack Frost that hiding is not the same as 409 00:26:32.640 --> 00:26:37.359 being afraid, and I'm not hiding anymore. With surprising speed 410 00:26:37.400 --> 00:26:40.440 for his size, Bart scooped up a handful of pebbles 411 00:26:40.440 --> 00:26:42.880 from the river bank and tossed them into the air 412 00:26:42.920 --> 00:26:46.200 above the sprites. At the same moment, Edmond pulled a 413 00:26:46.240 --> 00:26:49.279 small vial from his vest and threw it upward. The 414 00:26:49.359 --> 00:26:52.720 vial shattered against the pebbles, releasing a cloud of glittering 415 00:26:52.799 --> 00:26:56.200 dust that rained down on the ice sprites. The effect 416 00:26:56.359 --> 00:27:00.279 was immediate. Where the dust touched their icy bodies, rights 417 00:27:00.319 --> 00:27:04.519 began to steam and melt. They squealed an alarm, retreating 418 00:27:04.559 --> 00:27:09.200 back toward the tree line. Spring dust, Edmond explained with satisfaction, 419 00:27:09.839 --> 00:27:14.920 useful for emergencies. The lead sprite, partially melted but still intact, 420 00:27:15.200 --> 00:27:18.480 pointed a dripping finger at them. This change is nothing. 421 00:27:18.960 --> 00:27:23.039 You're already too late. The process has begun. With that 422 00:27:23.119 --> 00:27:27.559 ominous declaration, the sprites vanished into the forest. We need 423 00:27:27.599 --> 00:27:31.000 to move Athena said urgently. If Jack has indeed found 424 00:27:31.039 --> 00:27:33.720 a way to manipulate the egg's magic, we have even 425 00:27:33.799 --> 00:27:37.400 less time than we thought. Can you fly again so soon? 426 00:27:37.519 --> 00:27:41.279 Edmond asked, with concern, I must, The owl replied simply, 427 00:27:41.839 --> 00:27:45.160 the stakes are too high. As they prepared to depart, 428 00:27:45.480 --> 00:27:48.960 Bart pocketed the frost seed he'd found. Something told him 429 00:27:48.960 --> 00:27:52.079 it might prove useful. The encounter with the sprites had 430 00:27:52.079 --> 00:27:56.519 only strengthened his resolve. This wasn't just about saving Easter anymore. 431 00:27:56.920 --> 00:27:59.680 The natural balance of the entire world was at stake. 432 00:28:00.480 --> 00:28:03.319 With renewed urgency, they took to the skies once more, 433 00:28:03.720 --> 00:28:05.960 flying toward the bridge that would take them across the 434 00:28:05.960 --> 00:28:09.279 Great River and one step closer to confronting Jack Frost. 435 00:28:10.279 --> 00:28:11.440 The ancient stone. 436 00:28:11.160 --> 00:28:14.400 Bridge arched gracefully over the widest part of the Great River, 437 00:28:15.160 --> 00:28:18.160 known as the Boundary Bridge. It wasn't just a physical crossing. 438 00:28:18.680 --> 00:28:21.680 It marked the transition between the temperate forests of whisper 439 00:28:21.720 --> 00:28:24.680 Wood and the more rugged, mountainous terrain that led to 440 00:28:24.720 --> 00:28:28.079 the Northern Falls. Athena landed on the near side of 441 00:28:28.119 --> 00:28:32.240 the bridge, her wings drooping slightly with fatigue. This is 442 00:28:32.279 --> 00:28:35.200 as far as I can take you, she announced. Beyond 443 00:28:35.200 --> 00:28:39.240 this point, Jack's influence grows stronger, the air currents become 444 00:28:39.359 --> 00:28:43.440 erratic and dangerous. You've done more than enough, Edmond assured her, 445 00:28:43.799 --> 00:28:46.640 hopping down from her back. We're already half a day 446 00:28:46.680 --> 00:28:47.440 ahead of schedule. 447 00:28:47.480 --> 00:28:47.960 Thanks to you. 448 00:28:49.119 --> 00:28:52.480 Bart dismounted more carefully his feet, grateful to be on 449 00:28:52.599 --> 00:28:56.960 solid ground again. Thank you, Athena. I never imagined i'd 450 00:28:56.960 --> 00:29:01.200 see the world from a bird's perspective. Owl bowed her head. 451 00:29:01.920 --> 00:29:04.640 It was my honor to assist in such an important mission. 452 00:29:05.119 --> 00:29:07.799 But I must warn you the lands beyond the bridge 453 00:29:07.839 --> 00:29:11.240 have changed recently. Winter's grip is tighter there than it 454 00:29:11.279 --> 00:29:15.200 should be this time of year. Jack's doing, Edmund muttered, 455 00:29:15.480 --> 00:29:20.519 staring across the bridge. Indeed, Athena agreed, be vigilant, and 456 00:29:20.559 --> 00:29:23.480 should you need aid again on your return journey, call 457 00:29:23.559 --> 00:29:26.359 my name to the stars. I will hear and come 458 00:29:26.440 --> 00:29:30.319 if I can. With a final bow of her majestic head, 459 00:29:30.759 --> 00:29:34.240 Athena spread her wings and took flight, quickly becoming a 460 00:29:34.279 --> 00:29:38.200 small speck against the afternoon sky. Bart watched her go, 461 00:29:38.680 --> 00:29:41.680 then turned his attention to the bridge before them. It 462 00:29:41.720 --> 00:29:45.720 was clearly ancient, its stones worn, smooth, by centuries of 463 00:29:45.759 --> 00:29:50.000 weather and traveler's feet. Strange symbols were carved into the 464 00:29:50.039 --> 00:29:54.039 stone pillars, faintly glowing with an inner light. What are 465 00:29:54.079 --> 00:29:57.039 these markings, he asked, running a finger over one of 466 00:29:57.039 --> 00:30:01.599 the symbols. Boundary wards. Edmund explained, this bridge marks the 467 00:30:01.720 --> 00:30:04.920 edge of the old territories, lands that have been inhabited 468 00:30:04.960 --> 00:30:08.920 by magical beings since time immemorial. The symbols helped maintain 469 00:30:09.000 --> 00:30:13.400 the magical boundaries between different realms. Bart studied the carvings 470 00:30:13.440 --> 00:30:16.359 with new interest, and they allow us to cross. 471 00:30:17.119 --> 00:30:18.240 Yes, though the. 472 00:30:18.200 --> 00:30:22.480 Bridge recognizes magical signatures, Jack will know we've crossed as 473 00:30:22.480 --> 00:30:25.400 soon as we step onto the other side. Then we 474 00:30:25.440 --> 00:30:29.720 should move quickly, Bart decided, striding forward. As they stepped 475 00:30:29.720 --> 00:30:33.119 onto the bridge, Bart felt a subtle change, like walking 476 00:30:33.200 --> 00:30:37.440 through a cobweb made of electricity. The air seemed to hum, 477 00:30:37.519 --> 00:30:40.079 and for a brief moment, his hair stood on end. 478 00:30:40.920 --> 00:30:45.000 Then the sensation passed and they continued to cross. From 479 00:30:45.039 --> 00:30:47.039 the center of the bridge, they could see the stark 480 00:30:47.079 --> 00:30:51.759 difference between the territories. Behind them, whisper wood remained vibrant 481 00:30:51.759 --> 00:30:55.799 with early spring growth, but ahead the landscape was locked 482 00:30:55.839 --> 00:30:59.799 in winter's embrace, Snow covered the ground and icicles hung 483 00:30:59.799 --> 00:31:04.599 from tree branches. The contrast was jarring and unnatural. It 484 00:31:04.640 --> 00:31:07.960 shouldn't be like this, Edmond said quietly. This area should 485 00:31:07.960 --> 00:31:11.559 be showing signs of spring by now. Jack's really been busy. 486 00:31:11.640 --> 00:31:14.799 Bart observed, noting how the line of winter snow began 487 00:31:14.880 --> 00:31:18.200 precisely at the far end of the bridge, an unnaturally 488 00:31:18.240 --> 00:31:22.079 straight boundary. When they reached the far side, Bart immediately 489 00:31:22.079 --> 00:31:25.799 felt the temperature drop. His breath came out in visible puffs, 490 00:31:26.119 --> 00:31:29.599 and the snow crunched beneath his large feet. Despite his 491 00:31:29.680 --> 00:31:32.720 thick hair, he could feel the unnatural bite in the air. 492 00:31:33.559 --> 00:31:37.359 Edmond shivered, his ears drooping slightly. I don't like this. 493 00:31:38.079 --> 00:31:43.559 The cold feels wrong somehow, Bart nodded in agreement. He'd 494 00:31:43.599 --> 00:31:46.319 lived through countless winters, but this cold had a strange 495 00:31:46.400 --> 00:31:50.119 quality to it, almost aggressive, as if it were actively 496 00:31:50.160 --> 00:31:53.039 seeking to chill them, rather than simply existing as a 497 00:31:53.119 --> 00:31:56.880 natural condition. Which way to the crystal cave? He asked, 498 00:31:57.240 --> 00:32:01.480 Scanning the snow covered landscape, pulled out his living map again. 499 00:32:02.359 --> 00:32:05.720 North by northwest, he said, pointing toward a jagged line 500 00:32:05.720 --> 00:32:09.119 of mountains visible in the distance. The northern falls are 501 00:32:09.160 --> 00:32:11.559 at the base of those peaks, and the cave should 502 00:32:11.559 --> 00:32:15.799 be hidden behind the waterfall. They set off, trudging through 503 00:32:15.839 --> 00:32:19.119 snow that came up to Edmund's chest. The rabbit was 504 00:32:19.160 --> 00:32:22.680 forced to hop with exaggerated bounds to make progress, which 505 00:32:22.759 --> 00:32:26.279 quickly began to tire him. Without a word, Bart scooped 506 00:32:26.359 --> 00:32:29.200 Edmond up and set him on his broad shoulder. Save 507 00:32:29.240 --> 00:32:32.240 your strength, he suggested, you can guide us from up there. 508 00:32:33.000 --> 00:32:36.400 Thank you, Edmund said, gratefully, I'm more accustomed to underground 509 00:32:36.440 --> 00:32:40.480 tunnels than snow drifts. As they traveled, the signs of 510 00:32:40.559 --> 00:32:44.880 Jack's interference became increasingly evident. Trees that should have been 511 00:32:44.920 --> 00:32:48.799 budding were instead encased in thick ice. A small stream 512 00:32:48.880 --> 00:32:52.680 they passed was frozen solid, with fish visible and motionless 513 00:32:52.720 --> 00:32:57.519 beneath the surface, not dead, but suspended in an unnatural stasis. 514 00:32:58.599 --> 00:33:02.359 Jack's using the egg's power to preserve winter. Edmund observed worriedly, 515 00:33:03.079 --> 00:33:05.960 these creatures should be active by now, but they're caught 516 00:33:05.960 --> 00:33:10.039 in temporal stasis. Can the effects be reversed? Bart asked, 517 00:33:10.519 --> 00:33:12.720 concerned for the forest life he shared his home with, 518 00:33:13.720 --> 00:33:16.799 if we recover the egg quickly enough, yes, Edmund assured him. 519 00:33:17.240 --> 00:33:20.039 But the longer this continues, the more difficult it will 520 00:33:20.079 --> 00:33:23.920 be to restore the natural order. By late afternoon, they 521 00:33:23.920 --> 00:33:27.519 had made good progress through the frozen landscape. The mountains 522 00:33:27.519 --> 00:33:32.000 loomed closer now, their peaks shrouded in swirling gray clouds. 523 00:33:32.799 --> 00:33:35.559 Bart estimated they could reach the falls by mid morning 524 00:33:35.599 --> 00:33:39.519 tomorrow if they continued at this pace. As evening approached, 525 00:33:39.680 --> 00:33:41.839 they began to look for a suitable place to camp 526 00:33:41.880 --> 00:33:45.279 for the night. Bart spotted a small hollow beneath an 527 00:33:45.279 --> 00:33:48.400 overhanging cliff that would provide some shelter from the biting 528 00:33:48.440 --> 00:33:51.559 wind that had begun to pick up. We'll rest there, 529 00:33:51.599 --> 00:33:55.400 he suggested, pointing to the hollow. They had just changed 530 00:33:55.440 --> 00:33:59.559 course toward the potential campsite when Edmond's ears suddenly shot up. 531 00:34:00.240 --> 00:34:01.720 Wait did you hear that? 532 00:34:02.799 --> 00:34:07.000 Bart paused, listening intently. At first, he heard nothing but 533 00:34:07.039 --> 00:34:11.559 the mournful wind. Then it came a faint sound, like 534 00:34:11.599 --> 00:34:18.719 distant bells, sleigh bells. Edmund whispered, Jack's transport hide. Bart 535 00:34:18.760 --> 00:34:22.440 immediately veered toward a dense copse of evergreens. With his 536 00:34:22.519 --> 00:34:25.840 white fur, Edmond would blend perfectly with the snow, but 537 00:34:25.960 --> 00:34:29.039 Bart's copper brown coat would stand out starkly against the 538 00:34:29.079 --> 00:34:33.800 white landscape. They crouched among the trees just as a remarkable. 539 00:34:33.280 --> 00:34:34.519 Sight appeared over the ridge. 540 00:34:34.519 --> 00:34:38.840 Ahead, a sleigh drawn by four enormous Arctic foxes with 541 00:34:38.920 --> 00:34:42.920 ice crystals in their fur, glided across the snow. The 542 00:34:42.960 --> 00:34:46.400 sleigh itself appeared to be made entirely of ice, shimmering 543 00:34:46.440 --> 00:34:49.559 with an inner blue light. Standing at the reins was 544 00:34:49.599 --> 00:34:52.639 a tall, slender figure with skin as white as snow 545 00:34:53.039 --> 00:34:54.639 and hair like frost crystals. 546 00:34:55.400 --> 00:34:56.800 He wore elaborate. 547 00:34:56.360 --> 00:34:59.960 Robes that seemed woven from snowflakes and ice, and his 548 00:35:00.000 --> 00:35:02.480 his eyes glowed with the same cold blue light they 549 00:35:02.519 --> 00:35:06.440 had seen in the ice sprites. Jack frost Edmund whispered, 550 00:35:06.880 --> 00:35:10.840 pressing himself flat against the snow. Bart watched the winter 551 00:35:10.920 --> 00:35:14.960 Spirit with fascination. Despite his obvious power, there was something 552 00:35:15.000 --> 00:35:19.039 almost sad about Jack, a loneliness that Bart recognized from 553 00:35:19.039 --> 00:35:24.000 his own solitary existence. The sleigh wasn't alone. A contingent 554 00:35:24.039 --> 00:35:28.159 of ice sprites surrounded it, moving in perfect formation, and 555 00:35:28.239 --> 00:35:31.960 behind the sleigh, bound in chains of ice, trudged a large, 556 00:35:32.000 --> 00:35:35.320 miserable looking creature covered in white fur. With blue markings 557 00:35:36.159 --> 00:35:40.000 great carrot sticks. Edmund gasped, that's a snow leopard guardian. 558 00:35:40.400 --> 00:35:43.880 They protect the magical pathways through the mountains. Jack must 559 00:35:43.960 --> 00:35:48.280 have captured it. Where they headed, Bart wondered aloud. The 560 00:35:48.360 --> 00:35:51.679 direction suggests they're coming from the northern falls, Edmond reasoned, 561 00:35:52.199 --> 00:35:54.880 But that doesn't make sense. If Jack hid the egg 562 00:35:54.920 --> 00:35:58.519 in the crystal cave, why would he be leaving. They 563 00:35:58.519 --> 00:36:02.079 watched in silence as the process and passed by, thankfully 564 00:36:02.079 --> 00:36:04.079 not coming close enough to their hiding. 565 00:36:03.760 --> 00:36:05.400 Spot to detect them. 566 00:36:05.719 --> 00:36:08.800 Once the sleigh had disappeared over the next ridge, Bart 567 00:36:08.800 --> 00:36:12.440 and Edmund continued toward their chosen shelter, both troubled by 568 00:36:12.440 --> 00:36:16.480 what they had witnessed. This complicates things, Edmund said, as 569 00:36:16.519 --> 00:36:19.440 they settled into the hollow. If Jack has moved the 570 00:36:19.480 --> 00:36:24.239 egg from the crystal Cave, we've lost our lead. Not necessarily, 571 00:36:24.280 --> 00:36:27.440 Bart replied, thoughtfully. The sprites of the River said the 572 00:36:27.440 --> 00:36:30.760 process had already begun. If Jack is using the egg's 573 00:36:30.840 --> 00:36:33.519 power to extend winter, he must have set up something 574 00:36:33.559 --> 00:36:37.639 at the cave, some kind of magical apparatus, A good 575 00:36:37.719 --> 00:36:41.199 point Edmund acknowledged, and the presence of the captured snow 576 00:36:41.280 --> 00:36:45.320 leopard guardian troubles me. Those creatures are peaceful unless threatened. 577 00:36:45.840 --> 00:36:50.000 For Jack to have imprisoned one means he's escalating his tactics. 578 00:36:50.039 --> 00:36:53.639 Bart finished grimly. We should rest and continue at first light. 579 00:36:54.199 --> 00:36:59.039 The mountains will be treacherous, especially in these conditions. Edmund nodded, 580 00:36:59.360 --> 00:37:03.440 his usual bright eyes clouded with worry. He pulled several 581 00:37:03.480 --> 00:37:06.960 items from his backpack, including a small silver device that 582 00:37:07.039 --> 00:37:10.760 resembled a lantern. When he twisted the top, it emitted 583 00:37:10.800 --> 00:37:15.280 a gentle warmth without any visible flame heat charm, he explained. 584 00:37:15.800 --> 00:37:18.119 Won't give us away with light, but we'll keep the 585 00:37:18.159 --> 00:37:21.519 worst of the cold at bay. Bart settled against the 586 00:37:21.599 --> 00:37:24.960 rock wall of their shelter, grateful for the magical warmth. 587 00:37:25.639 --> 00:37:29.079 You came well prepared, a habit when you've been delivering 588 00:37:29.119 --> 00:37:32.760 eggs worldwide for centuries, Edmund replied with a tired smile. 589 00:37:33.480 --> 00:37:38.119 Always expect the unexpected. As Edmond arranged his small bedroll, 590 00:37:38.519 --> 00:37:40.760 Bart pulled out his journal and made some quick notes 591 00:37:40.800 --> 00:37:45.000 about what they'd seen. The picture emerging was troubling. Jack 592 00:37:45.119 --> 00:37:48.960 wasn't just causing mischief. He was executing a carefully planned 593 00:37:48.960 --> 00:37:53.400 operation with multiple elements Edmund, Bart said, after a moment. 594 00:37:53.960 --> 00:37:57.320 You mentioned the Shadow Court earlier. Could they be helping 595 00:37:57.440 --> 00:38:01.239 Jack manipulate the egg's magic? It seems beyond the scope 596 00:38:01.280 --> 00:38:04.960 of what a winter spirit could do alone. Edmund paused 597 00:38:04.960 --> 00:38:10.440 his preparations, his expression grave. It's possible the Shadow Court 598 00:38:10.440 --> 00:38:13.800 were masters of perverting natural magic to serve their own ends, 599 00:38:14.599 --> 00:38:16.920 if they found a way to reach through their banishment 600 00:38:16.960 --> 00:38:21.960 and influence Jack. He shuddered, Well, that would explain a lot. 601 00:38:22.920 --> 00:38:26.400 How does one fight such beings? Bart asked, with light, 602 00:38:26.760 --> 00:38:30.760 truth and balance, Edmund replied, simply, the Shadow Court feeds 603 00:38:30.760 --> 00:38:34.239 on fear and distortion. They can't withstand the power of 604 00:38:34.280 --> 00:38:37.320 genuine spring magic, which is why they'd need Jack to 605 00:38:37.320 --> 00:38:42.519 neutralize the egg first. Bart considered this information thoughtfully, So 606 00:38:42.599 --> 00:38:46.159 our mission remains the same, find the egg and restore 607 00:38:46.239 --> 00:38:51.000 its proper function precisely, Edmund agreed, settling into his bedroll. 608 00:38:51.679 --> 00:38:54.119 Though I fear we may face more resistance than I 609 00:38:54.199 --> 00:38:59.639 initially anticipated. They fell into companionable silence, each lost in 610 00:38:59.679 --> 00:39:03.400 their own thoughts. Outside their shelter, the wind picked up, 611 00:39:03.719 --> 00:39:08.000 howling through the frozen landscape like a mournful spirit. Despite 612 00:39:08.000 --> 00:39:13.440 the circumstances, Bart found himself strangely content after centuries of solitude. 613 00:39:13.519 --> 00:39:17.280 There was something deeply satisfying about having a purpose, about 614 00:39:17.400 --> 00:39:21.920 using his unique abilities to help others. As darkness fell completely, 615 00:39:22.320 --> 00:39:26.400 Bart kept watch while Edmond dozed. The rabbit clearly needed 616 00:39:26.400 --> 00:39:30.559 rest more than he did sasquatch physiology required far less 617 00:39:30.599 --> 00:39:34.239 sleep than most creatures. In the quiet hours, Bart found 618 00:39:34.320 --> 00:39:37.440 himself reflecting on how quickly his simple life had been upended. 619 00:39:38.360 --> 00:39:41.679 Just yesterday, he'd been gathering herbs for tea with no 620 00:39:41.800 --> 00:39:44.840 inkling of the magical world that existed alongside his own. 621 00:39:45.679 --> 00:39:47.960 Now he was on a quest to save not just Easter, 622 00:39:48.480 --> 00:39:52.199 but the natural balance of seasons itself. Life was indeed 623 00:39:52.239 --> 00:39:56.840 full of surprises, even after centuries of existence. Dawn broke 624 00:39:56.880 --> 00:40:01.119 with reluctant grayness over the frozen landscape. Bart had dozed 625 00:40:01.159 --> 00:40:04.679 intermittently through the night, always keeping one ear tuned to 626 00:40:04.760 --> 00:40:08.960 their surroundings. Now he gently woke Edmund, who emerged from 627 00:40:09.000 --> 00:40:12.960 his bedroll with surprising alertness. Any sign of Jack or 628 00:40:12.960 --> 00:40:17.199 his minions, the rabbit asked, quickly packing his gear. Nothing 629 00:40:17.280 --> 00:40:21.079 Bart confirmed, but the temperature dropped significantly during the night. 630 00:40:21.800 --> 00:40:25.119 Look He pointed to the entrance of their shelter, where 631 00:40:25.320 --> 00:40:28.400 icicles that hadn't been present the evening before now hung 632 00:40:28.559 --> 00:40:32.880 like crystal and teeth. Edmund studied the ice formation with concern. 633 00:40:33.719 --> 00:40:37.039 Jack's power is growing stronger. The egg's magic must be 634 00:40:37.079 --> 00:40:41.039 feeding his winter spells. After a quick breakfast of dried 635 00:40:41.039 --> 00:40:43.800 fruits and nuts from their packs, they set off toward 636 00:40:43.880 --> 00:40:48.360 the mountains. The terrain became increasingly difficult. What had been 637 00:40:48.400 --> 00:40:52.199 gentle slopes were now steep inclines covered with treacherous ice. 638 00:40:52.960 --> 00:40:56.480 Bart's large feet provided decent traction, and he often had 639 00:40:56.480 --> 00:41:01.039 to help Edmund navigate particularly slippery passages. By mid morning, 640 00:41:01.039 --> 00:41:04.400 they could hear the distant roar of water the Northern Falls. 641 00:41:05.320 --> 00:41:09.320 Under normal circumstances, the falls were a spectacular sight, with 642 00:41:09.440 --> 00:41:12.480 water cascading hundreds of feet down a sheer cliff face. 643 00:41:13.280 --> 00:41:15.679 But as they crested a ridge and got their first view, 644 00:41:16.159 --> 00:41:20.719 both stopped in astonishment. The falls were frozen solid. A 645 00:41:20.800 --> 00:41:23.760 massive wall of ice stood where flowing water should have been, 646 00:41:24.360 --> 00:41:28.239 capturing the movement in suspended animation. It was beautiful in 647 00:41:28.280 --> 00:41:32.800 an eerie way. The water caught midfall sunlight refracting through 648 00:41:32.840 --> 00:41:37.159 the clear ice to create rainbows of color. This isn't natural, ice, 649 00:41:37.280 --> 00:41:41.840 Edmund stated, studying the formation. Normal freezing doesn't happen this way. 650 00:41:42.400 --> 00:41:45.039 The water should have frozen in sections, not as a 651 00:41:45.079 --> 00:41:49.800 single moment captured in time. Bart nodded in agreement. More 652 00:41:49.840 --> 00:41:53.440 temporal magic, like with the fish in the stream. 653 00:41:53.800 --> 00:41:56.480 Yes, but on a much larger scale. 654 00:41:56.519 --> 00:41:59.880 The power required to freeze an entire waterfall in an instant. 655 00:42:00.760 --> 00:42:04.679 Edmund's voice trailed off in awe and concern. They approached 656 00:42:04.679 --> 00:42:09.599 the frozen falls cautiously. According to Edmond's information, the crystal 657 00:42:09.639 --> 00:42:13.159 cave should be located behind the waterfall, accessible through a 658 00:42:13.239 --> 00:42:16.960 narrow path that ran along the cliff face. The passage 659 00:42:16.960 --> 00:42:20.239 would normally be hidden by the water, Edmund explained, but 660 00:42:20.360 --> 00:42:23.119 with the falls frozen, we might be able to spot it. 661 00:42:24.159 --> 00:42:26.679 They scouted along the base of the cliff, searching for 662 00:42:26.760 --> 00:42:30.320 any sign of an opening. After about twenty minutes, Bart 663 00:42:30.400 --> 00:42:34.280 noticed a small, unnatural flatness in the rocks, a section 664 00:42:34.360 --> 00:42:38.320 that looked almost like steps leading up to a narrow ledge. Here, 665 00:42:38.360 --> 00:42:41.880 he called to Edmund, this might be it. The rabbit 666 00:42:41.920 --> 00:42:45.800 examined the area and nodded, good eye, these are definitely 667 00:42:45.840 --> 00:42:48.840 carved steps. They lead to that ledge. About thirty feet 668 00:42:48.920 --> 00:42:52.800 up see From there, the path would continue behind the falls. 669 00:42:53.760 --> 00:42:57.760 The climb was precarious. The steps designed for creatures smaller 670 00:42:57.800 --> 00:43:00.960 than Bart, were slick with ice. He had to test 671 00:43:01.000 --> 00:43:06.119 each foothold carefully, ensuring it would support his weight before proceeding. Edmund, 672 00:43:06.159 --> 00:43:09.360 being more nimble, went ahead to scout the path. When 673 00:43:09.360 --> 00:43:11.960 they finally reached the ledge, they found themselves face to 674 00:43:12.000 --> 00:43:15.679 face with the frozen falls. Up close, the site was 675 00:43:15.719 --> 00:43:19.239 even more impressive. They could see bubbles trapped in the ice, 676 00:43:19.639 --> 00:43:22.280 fish caught mid leap, even a bird that had been 677 00:43:22.320 --> 00:43:25.719 diving toward the water when the freezing occurred. It's like 678 00:43:25.840 --> 00:43:31.639 time simply stopped. Bart marveled, His voice hushed, That's exactly 679 00:43:31.679 --> 00:43:35.159 what happened, Edmund confirmed grimly, And it's spreading. 680 00:43:35.920 --> 00:43:36.159 Look. 681 00:43:37.280 --> 00:43:39.920 He pointed to the edges of the frozen falls, where 682 00:43:39.960 --> 00:43:43.960 tiny tendrils of ice were slowly extending outward, creeping along 683 00:43:44.000 --> 00:43:47.320 the cliff face like seeking fingers. We need to hurry, 684 00:43:47.480 --> 00:43:51.960 Edmund urged, The temporal freezing is still expanding. The path 685 00:43:52.039 --> 00:43:55.719 behind the falls was narrow but navigable. It wound around 686 00:43:55.760 --> 00:43:58.760 the cliff face for about fifty yards before turning inward 687 00:43:59.039 --> 00:44:02.800 into the mountain. At so here, the passage opened slightly, 688 00:44:03.199 --> 00:44:06.920 revealing a tunnel lined with strange luminescent crystals that gave 689 00:44:06.960 --> 00:44:11.559 off a soft blue glow. The crystal path, Edmund whispered, it, 690 00:44:11.639 --> 00:44:15.480 leads directly to the cave. As they proceeded deeper into 691 00:44:15.480 --> 00:44:19.400 the mountain, the temperature continued to drop. Bart's hair was 692 00:44:19.519 --> 00:44:23.400 rhymed with frost, and Edmund's whiskers had become tiny icicles. 693 00:44:24.119 --> 00:44:26.639 But more concerning than the cold was the growing sense 694 00:44:26.639 --> 00:44:29.760 of wrongness, a feeling that they were entering a place 695 00:44:29.760 --> 00:44:33.679 where the natural laws were being subverted. After what seemed 696 00:44:33.679 --> 00:44:36.760 like an eternity of walking through the twisting crystalline tunnel, 697 00:44:37.239 --> 00:44:40.440 they emerged into a vast cavern that took their breath away. 698 00:44:41.320 --> 00:44:44.679 The walls, floor, and ceiling were composed entirely of ice 699 00:44:44.760 --> 00:44:49.119 crystals that refracted light in dazzling patterns. In the center 700 00:44:49.119 --> 00:44:52.559 of the cavern stood a raised platform, also made of ice, 701 00:44:53.000 --> 00:44:56.960 supporting what appeared to be an elaborate machine. The device 702 00:44:57.079 --> 00:45:00.440 was a complex arrangement of gears, tubes, and crip dists, 703 00:45:00.920 --> 00:45:05.000 all spinning slowly around a central chamber and suspended within 704 00:45:05.039 --> 00:45:09.360 that chamber, rotating gently was a large egg shaped object 705 00:45:09.360 --> 00:45:13.440 that glowed with shifting colors, predominantly blue knaw, but with 706 00:45:13.559 --> 00:45:17.519 hints of green, pink, and yellow. Fighting to emerge the 707 00:45:17.559 --> 00:45:22.440 egg of renewal. Edmund breathed Jack's corrupted it somehow, Bart 708 00:45:22.480 --> 00:45:25.880 studied the machine with growing concern. This looks like it's 709 00:45:25.960 --> 00:45:30.840 drawing power from the egg and redirecting it exactly, came 710 00:45:30.880 --> 00:45:34.079 a smooth, cold voice from behind them. Quite impressive for 711 00:45:34.159 --> 00:45:36.840 a creature who spent centuries hiding in the woods, isn't it. 712 00:45:37.760 --> 00:45:40.079 They spun around to find Jack Frost standing at the 713 00:45:40.119 --> 00:45:44.480 tunnel entrance, flanked by several ice sprites. The winter spirit 714 00:45:44.519 --> 00:45:48.320 looked even more imposing up close, tall and regal, with 715 00:45:48.440 --> 00:45:53.199 eyes that burned like cold fire. Jack Edmond acknowledged tensely. 716 00:45:53.800 --> 00:45:57.320 What have you done to the egg? Jack smiled, a 717 00:45:57.360 --> 00:46:02.320 sharp expression without warmth, simply adjusted its purpose. Why should 718 00:46:02.360 --> 00:46:05.840 spring get all the glory? Why should winter always retreat 719 00:46:06.239 --> 00:46:09.599 meek and forgotten? As soon as your precious Easter arrives. 720 00:46:10.559 --> 00:46:14.800 He strode forward, his icy robes, whispering against the crystal floor. 721 00:46:15.719 --> 00:46:17.880 For too long the egg's power has been used to 722 00:46:17.920 --> 00:46:24.320 push Winter aside. I've merely rebalanced the equation. This isn't balanced. 723 00:46:24.360 --> 00:46:29.000 Bart said firmly, you're disrupting the natural cycle. Jack turned 724 00:46:29.000 --> 00:46:32.119 his cold gaze on the sasquatch. And what would you 725 00:46:32.159 --> 00:46:35.840 know of nature's cycles, You who hide from the world, 726 00:46:36.400 --> 00:46:39.880 who watch passively as humans destroy forests and poison rivers. 727 00:46:40.519 --> 00:46:44.079 At least I'm taking action to preserve something beautiful by 728 00:46:44.119 --> 00:46:48.239 freezing it in time. Edmund challenged, that's not preservation, Jack, 729 00:46:48.639 --> 00:46:53.840 it's stagnation. Life needs change to flourish. Life is fragile 730 00:46:53.840 --> 00:46:57.840 and fleeting. Jack retorted bitterly. Winter is eternal and perfect 731 00:46:57.880 --> 00:47:01.400 in its stillness. And now, thanks to the Egg's power, 732 00:47:01.800 --> 00:47:05.400 my winner will extend across the world. Bart took a 733 00:47:05.400 --> 00:47:09.079 step toward the central platform, but the ice sprites immediately 734 00:47:09.119 --> 00:47:12.320 moved to block his path. Their tiny face is fierce. 735 00:47:13.199 --> 00:47:17.119 You can't possibly control the Egg's power indefinitely, Edmund argued, 736 00:47:17.679 --> 00:47:20.800 It wasn't meant for this. The magical backlash, when it 737 00:47:20.840 --> 00:47:25.320 eventually breaks free, will be catastrophic. For a brief moment, 738 00:47:25.480 --> 00:47:30.480 uncertainty flickered across Jack's face, then his expression hardened. The 739 00:47:30.480 --> 00:47:34.360 Shadow Court has provided safeguards. The magic is contained and 740 00:47:34.440 --> 00:47:38.679 directed precisely as I wish, So it is the Shadow Court. 741 00:47:38.800 --> 00:47:42.679 Edmund pressed, Jack, you can't trust them. They're using you 742 00:47:42.760 --> 00:47:46.159 to gain access to our realm. Once Winter covers everything, 743 00:47:46.480 --> 00:47:50.599 they'll no longer need you. Lies, Jack hissed, though Bart 744 00:47:50.679 --> 00:47:54.599 noticed a hesitation in his voice. They understand me. They 745 00:47:54.639 --> 00:47:59.679 appreciate Winner's beauty and permanence. They appreciate nothing, Bart said quietly. 746 00:48:00.320 --> 00:48:02.360 They only seek to upset the balance so they can 747 00:48:02.400 --> 00:48:07.280 feed on the resulting chaos. Jack wavered, conflict evident in 748 00:48:07.320 --> 00:48:12.719 his ice blue eyes. Then he straightened, resolve, returning enough talk. 749 00:48:13.159 --> 00:48:17.159 You're too late anyway. The process is nearly complete. Once 750 00:48:17.199 --> 00:48:20.079 the egg's full power has been redirected, not even your 751 00:48:20.079 --> 00:48:23.800 collective magic can reverse it. He gestured to the ice sprites. 752 00:48:24.440 --> 00:48:26.960 Keep them here. I must check on the outer perimeter. 753 00:48:27.400 --> 00:48:29.760 The expansion should have reached the next valley by now. 754 00:48:30.719 --> 00:48:33.320 With a swirl of his frosty cloak, Jack turned and 755 00:48:33.400 --> 00:48:35.519 exited through a different tunnel than the one they had 756 00:48:35.639 --> 00:48:39.199 entered by. The sprites formed a tight circle around Bart 757 00:48:39.239 --> 00:48:43.840 and Edmund. Their ice spears pointed inward. Now what, Bart 758 00:48:43.880 --> 00:48:46.960 whispered to Edmund. The rabbit's eyes were fixed on the 759 00:48:47.000 --> 00:48:51.039 egg calculating, we need to disrupt that machine. If we 760 00:48:51.079 --> 00:48:53.440 can free the egg from whatever spell Jack has cast, 761 00:48:53.840 --> 00:48:57.360 its natural magic should reassert itself. And how do we 762 00:48:57.400 --> 00:49:01.480 get past our tiny guard? Edmund's whiskers twitched with the 763 00:49:01.480 --> 00:49:05.440 beginning of a smile. I might have an idea. Remember 764 00:49:05.480 --> 00:49:08.079 that frost seed you found by the river. Do you 765 00:49:08.119 --> 00:49:12.840 still have it? Bart nodded, reaching to withdraw the small crystal. 766 00:49:13.519 --> 00:49:14.159 What about it? 767 00:49:15.199 --> 00:49:19.599 Jack's sprites are elementals, beings made of winter magic. They're 768 00:49:19.679 --> 00:49:22.719 drawn to sources of that magic. If we can create 769 00:49:22.719 --> 00:49:27.480 a distraction, understanding dawned on Bart. We use the seed 770 00:49:27.480 --> 00:49:31.199 to lure them away exactly, but we'll need to activate 771 00:49:31.239 --> 00:49:36.039 it first. Edmund reached for the crystal. May I Bart 772 00:49:36.079 --> 00:49:40.360 handed it over. Edmund examined the frost seed carefully, then 773 00:49:40.360 --> 00:49:42.920 from one of his many pockets produced a small vial 774 00:49:43.000 --> 00:49:47.159 of clear liquid spring dew. He explained normally it would 775 00:49:47.199 --> 00:49:51.760 neutralize winter magic, but in very small amounts. Applied precisely. 776 00:49:52.639 --> 00:49:55.159 He uncorked the vial and let a single drop fall 777 00:49:55.239 --> 00:49:58.840 onto the frost seed. Instead of melting it. The liquid 778 00:49:58.840 --> 00:50:03.280 seemed to activate something within the crystal, and stay tuned 779 00:50:03.280 --> 00:50:05.800 for more sasquatch. Otta see, We'll be right back after 780 00:50:05.840 --> 00:50:13.880 these messages. It began to pulse with cold light, emitting 781 00:50:13.920 --> 00:50:18.039 tiny wisps of frost. It's responding to the opposing magic. 782 00:50:18.159 --> 00:50:20.519 Edmund whispered, Now we need to throw it as far 783 00:50:20.559 --> 00:50:23.400 from the machine as possible. The sprites won't be able 784 00:50:23.440 --> 00:50:27.840 to resist investigating. Bart took the activated seed and with 785 00:50:27.920 --> 00:50:31.360 careful aim, tossed it across the cavern, where it landed 786 00:50:31.400 --> 00:50:35.159 in a far corner. The effect was immediate. The seed 787 00:50:35.199 --> 00:50:39.159 burst into a small explosion of frost patterns, spreading rapidly 788 00:50:39.199 --> 00:50:42.599 across the floor and walls of that section. The ice 789 00:50:42.639 --> 00:50:46.239 sprites turned as one, their attention captured by the sudden 790 00:50:46.280 --> 00:50:50.639 surge of winter magic. With excited chirping sounds, they scurried 791 00:50:50.679 --> 00:50:56.360 toward the disturbance, temporarily forgetting their prisoners. Now, Edmond urged, 792 00:50:57.199 --> 00:51:01.079 they dashed toward the central platform of Renewal was even 793 00:51:01.119 --> 00:51:04.719 more impressive up close, about the size of an ostrich egg, 794 00:51:05.119 --> 00:51:07.719 with a surface that swirled with colors trying to break 795 00:51:07.760 --> 00:51:11.440 through the dominant blue. The machine surrounding it hummed with 796 00:51:11.519 --> 00:51:15.480 magical energy tubes and gears channeling the egg's power. Into 797 00:51:15.519 --> 00:51:19.039 the crystalline network that spread throughout the cave and beyond. 798 00:51:20.000 --> 00:51:20.840 How do we stop it? 799 00:51:20.920 --> 00:51:24.599 Bart asked, urgently, aware that the sprites would soon realize 800 00:51:24.639 --> 00:51:29.679 they'd been tricked. Edmund studied the apparatus, his nose twitching rapidly. 801 00:51:30.440 --> 00:51:33.679 There that crystal rod seems to be the main conduit. 802 00:51:34.519 --> 00:51:38.159 He pointed to a long, transparent shaft that connected directly 803 00:51:38.159 --> 00:51:41.159 to the egg's chamber. If we can break it, the 804 00:51:41.199 --> 00:51:45.239 flow of magic should be interrupted. Bart reached for the rod, 805 00:51:45.320 --> 00:51:48.000 but as soon as his fingers came close, a painful 806 00:51:48.079 --> 00:51:52.960 jolt of magical energy repelled him. It's protected, of course 807 00:51:53.000 --> 00:51:56.719 it is, Edmond muttered. Jack wouldn't leave it vulnerable. He 808 00:51:56.800 --> 00:52:00.000 dug frantically through his backpack. I need something that can 809 00:52:00.159 --> 00:52:01.440 counteract winter magic. 810 00:52:02.280 --> 00:52:03.199 Ah. 811 00:52:03.519 --> 00:52:06.679 He produced a small golden tool that resembled a paint brush, 812 00:52:07.400 --> 00:52:10.400 an easter artifact. We use it to infuse eggs with 813 00:52:10.480 --> 00:52:15.519 renewal energy. Edmond carefully extended the brush toward the crystal rod. 814 00:52:16.159 --> 00:52:19.960 Where the golden bristles touched the crystal, fractures of light appeared. 815 00:52:20.559 --> 00:52:25.719 It's working, but slowly, too slowly. Behind them, the ice 816 00:52:25.800 --> 00:52:29.800 sprites had discovered the deception. Their angry chittering echoed through 817 00:52:29.800 --> 00:52:33.400 the cavern as they raced back toward the platform. Keep going, 818 00:52:33.480 --> 00:52:37.800 Bart urged, I'll hold them off. As the sprites converged 819 00:52:37.800 --> 00:52:41.159 on them, Bart used his size to his advantage. He 820 00:52:41.199 --> 00:52:44.719 stopped on the crystal floor, creating vibrations that disrupted the 821 00:52:44.719 --> 00:52:48.760 sprite's movements. Then he swung his massive arms and wide arcs, 822 00:52:49.119 --> 00:52:52.320 forcing the small creatures to keep their distance. But there 823 00:52:52.320 --> 00:52:56.280 were many sprites and only one sasquatch. They began to 824 00:52:56.320 --> 00:52:59.639 coordinate their attacks, some diving at his feet while others 825 00:52:59.679 --> 00:53:03.559 aimed for his face. Tiny ice spears stung his skin, 826 00:53:04.039 --> 00:53:06.519 and frost began to spread across his hair wherever they 827 00:53:06.559 --> 00:53:10.400 touched him. Edmund he called grunning as he fended off 828 00:53:10.440 --> 00:53:16.920 another wave of sprites. Any progress almost there, Edmond was 829 00:53:17.119 --> 00:53:20.880 entirely focused on the task, the golden brush working steadily 830 00:53:20.920 --> 00:53:24.039 against the crystal rod, which was now covered in fractures, 831 00:53:24.119 --> 00:53:29.000 glowing with springtime colors. With a final determined stroke, Edmund 832 00:53:29.079 --> 00:53:31.639 drove the brush directly into the center of the rod. 833 00:53:32.519 --> 00:53:35.719 There was a sound like breaking glass, high and clear, 834 00:53:36.360 --> 00:53:40.719 and then the rod shattered completely. The effect was instantaneous. 835 00:53:41.280 --> 00:53:45.679 The machines humming changed, pitch becoming erratic. The tubes and 836 00:53:45.679 --> 00:53:49.360 gears spun wildly, no longer moving in their precise patterns. 837 00:53:50.119 --> 00:53:54.079 Most importantly, the egg itself began to pulse, the suppressed 838 00:53:54.079 --> 00:53:59.239 colors swirling more vigorously against the dominating blue. We've destabilized it, 839 00:53:59.440 --> 00:54:03.880 Edmond cried, triumphantly. The egg is fighting back against Jack's control. 840 00:54:04.920 --> 00:54:08.159 The ice sprite scattered in panic as waves of multicolored 841 00:54:08.280 --> 00:54:12.159 energy began to emanate from the egg. Where the waves passed, 842 00:54:12.480 --> 00:54:16.480 ice melted and frost receded. The cavern itself seemed to 843 00:54:16.519 --> 00:54:20.559 groan as the magical conflict between Winter's grasp and Spring's 844 00:54:20.559 --> 00:54:25.159 liberation played out. Is this supposed to happen? Bart asked worriedly, 845 00:54:25.519 --> 00:54:29.039 as the floor beneath them began to tremble. Not exactly, 846 00:54:29.159 --> 00:54:32.280 Edmond admitted. The Egg's power has been building up under 847 00:54:32.360 --> 00:54:36.360 Jack's suppression. Now it's releasing all at once. We should 848 00:54:37.239 --> 00:54:39.280 He was cut off by a roar of fury from 849 00:54:39.280 --> 00:54:42.960 the tunnel entrance. Jack Frost had returned, and his face 850 00:54:43.039 --> 00:54:45.079 was contorted with rage. 851 00:54:45.119 --> 00:54:45.800 What have you done? 852 00:54:45.880 --> 00:54:49.440 He demanded, striding toward them, with ice crystallizing around his 853 00:54:49.519 --> 00:54:54.000 clenched fists the right thing. Edmund replied firmly. This has 854 00:54:54.039 --> 00:54:58.960 to stop, Jack, You're upsetting the balance I was creating perfection. 855 00:54:59.159 --> 00:55:02.719 Jack snarled, He raised his hands, and a blast of 856 00:55:02.760 --> 00:55:07.440 winter magic shot toward them. Bart moved instinctively, shielding Edmond 857 00:55:07.519 --> 00:55:10.639 with his bulk. The freezing blast hit him squarely in 858 00:55:10.679 --> 00:55:14.159 the chest, instantly encasing much of his upper body in ice. 859 00:55:14.880 --> 00:55:19.320 He staggered, but remained standing, still protecting the rabbit Bart. 860 00:55:19.480 --> 00:55:24.239 Edmond cried in alarm. I'm okay, Bart managed, though the 861 00:55:24.280 --> 00:55:27.719 cold was unlike anything he'd ever experienced. It seemed to 862 00:55:27.760 --> 00:55:32.119 penetrate straight to his bones. Jack prepared another attack, but 863 00:55:32.199 --> 00:55:35.480 before he could release it, the egg pulsed again, this 864 00:55:35.639 --> 00:55:39.440 time emitting a blinding flash of golden light. The wave 865 00:55:39.480 --> 00:55:42.000 of energy that followed knocked all three of them off 866 00:55:42.039 --> 00:55:45.440 their feet. When Bart's vision cleared, he saw that the 867 00:55:45.480 --> 00:55:49.639 ice encasing him had melted away. The machine around the 868 00:55:49.679 --> 00:55:53.920 egg was in ruins, its components scattered across the platform, 869 00:55:54.079 --> 00:55:57.960 and the egg itself was now hovering unsupported. Its surface 870 00:55:58.039 --> 00:56:01.320 a harmonious swirl of blue, gris, green, pink, and yellow, 871 00:56:01.920 --> 00:56:05.480 the colors of all four seasons in balance. Jack had 872 00:56:05.480 --> 00:56:09.079 been thrown against a wall and lay there, stunned. As 873 00:56:09.079 --> 00:56:12.039 he struggled to rise, The egg moved toward him purposefully. 874 00:56:12.760 --> 00:56:15.000 When it reached the Winter Spirit, it began to glow 875 00:56:15.039 --> 00:56:20.679 more intensely, enveloping him in multicolored light. What's happening, Bart asked, 876 00:56:21.159 --> 00:56:25.079 helping Edmund to his feet. The egg is communicating with him, 877 00:56:25.320 --> 00:56:29.480 Edmond explained in an awed whisper. It's sentient in its way. 878 00:56:30.199 --> 00:56:32.920 It understands the balance of nature better than any of us. 879 00:56:34.039 --> 00:56:38.840 The light show continued for several moments. Jack's expression changed repeatedly, 880 00:56:39.360 --> 00:56:42.880 from anger, to confusion, to something like wonder, and finally 881 00:56:43.280 --> 00:56:48.360 to shame. When the light receded, the Winter Spirit remained kneeling. 882 00:56:48.320 --> 00:56:49.119 His head bowed. 883 00:56:50.039 --> 00:56:54.519 I I didn't understand, Jack said, his voice barely audible. 884 00:56:55.320 --> 00:56:57.519 They showed me only what they wanted me to see, 885 00:56:58.039 --> 00:57:03.079 the shadow court, They twisted, did everything. Edmund approached cautiously. 886 00:57:03.840 --> 00:57:05.239 What did the egg show you, Jack? 887 00:57:06.239 --> 00:57:06.679 The truth? 888 00:57:06.719 --> 00:57:10.199 He replied, simply, that winter is not meant to stand alone, 889 00:57:10.679 --> 00:57:14.000 That beauty exists in change, in the cycle of seasons. 890 00:57:14.840 --> 00:57:17.880 He looked up, his eyes, now a softer blue than before, 891 00:57:18.800 --> 00:57:22.000 and what my actions were doing to the world. The 892 00:57:22.039 --> 00:57:26.280 cavern continued to shake around them more violently. Now chunks 893 00:57:26.280 --> 00:57:28.960 of ice were falling from the ceiling, and the crystal 894 00:57:29.000 --> 00:57:33.880 walls were developing large cracks. The cave is collapsing. Bart observed, 895 00:57:34.400 --> 00:57:38.719 the conflicting magic has destabilized it. Jack rose to his feet. 896 00:57:39.320 --> 00:57:42.239 You need to leave, Take the egg and go. I'll 897 00:57:42.239 --> 00:57:45.400 hold the cavern together long enough for you to escape, 898 00:57:45.519 --> 00:57:49.760 and you, Edmund asked. A sad smile crossed Jack's face. 899 00:57:50.519 --> 00:57:55.000 I have much to atone for. This seems an appropriate start, no, 900 00:57:55.199 --> 00:57:59.119 Bart said firmly, that's not how balance works. All seasons 901 00:57:59.119 --> 00:58:04.000 are needed, including winter. Before Jack could protest, Bart scooped 902 00:58:04.039 --> 00:58:07.119 up both him and Edmond in his massive arms, which 903 00:58:07.119 --> 00:58:10.199 way out. Jack pointed toward the tunnel he had used 904 00:58:10.199 --> 00:58:14.519 earlier that leads to the surface fastest. Bart nodded and 905 00:58:14.559 --> 00:58:17.920 began running, the Egg of Renewal, floating along beside them 906 00:58:17.920 --> 00:58:21.400 as if determined to stay with its rescuers behind them. 907 00:58:21.639 --> 00:58:24.960 The crystal platform collapsed completely, and the walls of the 908 00:58:25.000 --> 00:58:26.519 cavern began to fold inward. 909 00:58:27.360 --> 00:58:28.039 The tunnel was. 910 00:58:27.960 --> 00:58:31.760 A blur of blue crystal and falling ice. Bart ran 911 00:58:31.840 --> 00:58:35.000 with all the speed his powerful legs could muster. Edmond 912 00:58:35.039 --> 00:58:40.199 and Jack clutched securely against his chest. The egg glided alongside, 913 00:58:40.639 --> 00:58:44.440 occasionally emitting pulses of energy that cleared obstacles from their path. 914 00:58:45.480 --> 00:58:48.159 Just as the tunnel behind them began to cave in completely, 915 00:58:48.679 --> 00:58:50.960 they burst out onto a snowfield at the side of 916 00:58:51.000 --> 00:58:54.320 the mountain. Bart continued running until they were a safe 917 00:58:54.360 --> 00:58:57.920 distance from the collapsing cave entrance. Finally, he set his 918 00:58:57.920 --> 00:59:01.000 passengers down and turned to watch as the entrance sealed 919 00:59:01.000 --> 00:59:03.440 itself with a final shower of ice and snow. 920 00:59:04.440 --> 00:59:05.159 That was close. 921 00:59:05.440 --> 00:59:08.639 Edmond panted, his ears flopping forward as he tried to 922 00:59:08.639 --> 00:59:12.320 catch his breath. The Egg of Renewal hovered between them, 923 00:59:12.719 --> 00:59:16.760 its colors now shifting in a calm rhythmic pattern. It 924 00:59:16.800 --> 00:59:20.239 seemed to be gradually regaining its equilibrium. After the ordeal, 925 00:59:21.119 --> 00:59:24.920 Jack stood apart, his shoulders slumped. I was a fool, 926 00:59:24.960 --> 00:59:29.599 he said softly. The Shadow Court promised me recognition, importance. 927 00:59:30.320 --> 00:59:33.440 They said Winter would finally get the respect it deserves. 928 00:59:34.159 --> 00:59:37.719 They used your insecurities against you, Edmund said, not unkindly. 929 00:59:38.440 --> 00:59:41.000 It's what they do. They find the cracks in our 930 00:59:41.000 --> 00:59:44.079 confidence and widen them until we're broken enough to manipulate. 931 00:59:44.880 --> 00:59:47.679 I should have known better. Jack gazed out at the 932 00:59:47.679 --> 00:59:49.440 frozen landscape he had created. 933 00:59:50.159 --> 00:59:51.440 Look at what I've done. 934 00:59:51.639 --> 00:59:55.320 Spring should be well under way by now. The egg pulsed, 935 00:59:55.679 --> 01:00:00.519 drawing their attention. It floated toward Jack, hovering before himffectantly. 936 01:00:01.320 --> 01:00:04.480 I think it wants your help, Bart observed, my help. 937 01:00:04.599 --> 01:00:09.559 Jack seemed bewildered after what I did. Edmond nodded in understanding, 938 01:00:10.199 --> 01:00:15.039 of course, the transition needs all seasonal energies and harmony. Jack, 939 01:00:15.519 --> 01:00:19.480 you need to help the egg restore balance. Hesitantly, Jack 940 01:00:19.559 --> 01:00:21.880 raised his hands on either side of the floating egg. 941 01:00:22.599 --> 01:00:26.079 I don't know if I can. You can, Bart, encouraged. 942 01:00:26.760 --> 01:00:31.280 Winter isn't about destruction. It's about rest renewal beneath the surface, 943 01:00:31.840 --> 01:00:36.719 preparation for growth. That's the true winter magic. Jack closed 944 01:00:36.719 --> 01:00:40.000 his eyes, concentrating his hands began to glow with a 945 01:00:40.039 --> 01:00:43.559 gentle blue light, not the harsh, aggressive power he had 946 01:00:43.599 --> 01:00:49.280 wielded before, but something softer and more harmonious. The egg responded, 947 01:00:49.639 --> 01:00:52.920 its colors swirling faster as it absorbed and transformed the 948 01:00:52.920 --> 01:00:58.320 winter energy. Gradually, the eggs glow intensified, expanding, outward in 949 01:00:58.360 --> 01:01:02.519 a sphere of multicolored light. Where the light touched the 950 01:01:02.639 --> 01:01:07.320 unnatural winter began to recede. Snow melted, not suddenly, but 951 01:01:07.400 --> 01:01:09.960 in the natural progression it should have followed weeks ago. 952 01:01:10.760 --> 01:01:15.039 Ice thinned and cracked appropriately. The very air seemed to warm, 953 01:01:15.559 --> 01:01:20.239 carrying the first genuine hints of spring. Its working. Edmund breathed. 954 01:01:21.039 --> 01:01:24.480 The wave of seasonal correction spread outward, racing down the 955 01:01:24.519 --> 01:01:27.679 mountain side and across the valley below. They could see 956 01:01:27.719 --> 01:01:30.360 it moving across the landscape like ripples on a pond, 957 01:01:30.960 --> 01:01:34.719 restoring the natural progression of seasons as it went. When 958 01:01:34.719 --> 01:01:38.480 the process was complete, Jack lowered his hands. He looked 959 01:01:38.480 --> 01:01:41.840 both exhausted and somehow lighter, as if a great burden 960 01:01:41.880 --> 01:01:45.920 had been lifted. Thank you, he said, quietly, for stopping 961 01:01:45.920 --> 01:01:49.119 me before it was too late. The egg of renewal 962 01:01:49.159 --> 01:01:52.360 floated back to hover near Edmund. Its color balance had 963 01:01:52.400 --> 01:01:56.880 been restored, with each season represented equally in its swirling pattern. 964 01:01:57.719 --> 01:02:02.039 What happens now, Bart asked, smiled, Now we take the 965 01:02:02.079 --> 01:02:06.440 egg home to the warrant where it belongs, and then easter. 966 01:02:06.639 --> 01:02:11.159 Jack exclaimed, looking stricken, Edmund, I've put you so far 967 01:02:11.239 --> 01:02:15.840 behind schedule. There's only what five days left? 968 01:02:16.159 --> 01:02:16.440 Four? 969 01:02:16.880 --> 01:02:20.639 Edmund corrected grimly, and yes, we have millions of eggs 970 01:02:20.639 --> 01:02:24.280 still to prepare and distribute. It will be a challenge. 971 01:02:24.400 --> 01:02:28.440 Jack straightened, a new determination in his eyes. Then let 972 01:02:28.480 --> 01:02:31.800 me help. It's the least I can do to make amends. 973 01:02:32.480 --> 01:02:36.039 Edmund looked skeptical. You want to help with Easter preparations. 974 01:02:36.679 --> 01:02:37.039 Why not? 975 01:02:38.000 --> 01:02:41.000 I control ice and snow. Surely I can manage a 976 01:02:41.000 --> 01:02:44.599 few eggs, and my sprites are excellent with delicate work. 977 01:02:45.400 --> 01:02:50.239 Jack smiled tentatively. Besides, who better to ensure appropriate spring 978 01:02:50.320 --> 01:02:54.239 weather for egg hunts than a reformed winter spirit. Bart 979 01:02:54.239 --> 01:02:58.639 watched this exchange with growing amusement. If Jack's offering his help, 980 01:02:58.920 --> 01:03:02.920 it would be foolish to refuse, and I, he hesitated, 981 01:03:03.239 --> 01:03:06.280 then committed himself. I would like to help as well. 982 01:03:07.360 --> 01:03:12.280 Edmond's ears shot up in surprise. You would, Bart nodded. 983 01:03:13.039 --> 01:03:15.920 These past days have shown me that isolation isn't always 984 01:03:16.000 --> 01:03:19.239 the answer. Perhaps it's time I became more involved in 985 01:03:19.239 --> 01:03:24.679 the world around me. A broad smile spread across Edmond's face. Well, then, 986 01:03:25.480 --> 01:03:28.280 with a sasquatch and Jack Frost on the easter team, 987 01:03:28.800 --> 01:03:32.159 we might just pull this off, after all, The egg 988 01:03:32.159 --> 01:03:35.920 of renewal pulsed with a parent approval. First things first, 989 01:03:35.960 --> 01:03:39.039 said Jack, looking at the mountain side. We need to 990 01:03:39.039 --> 01:03:42.400 get back to the war and quickly allow me. He 991 01:03:42.440 --> 01:03:46.599 whistled sharply, and within moments his sleigh appeared, pulled by 992 01:03:46.599 --> 01:03:51.320 the four magnificent Arctic foxes. Your carriage awaits, he said, 993 01:03:51.559 --> 01:03:55.280 with a theatrical bow as they climbed aboard the sleigh, 994 01:03:55.639 --> 01:03:59.360 a somewhat comical sight with Bart's large frame. Edmund held 995 01:03:59.360 --> 01:04:02.920 the egg careful. I must say, this is turning into 996 01:04:02.920 --> 01:04:05.280 the most unusual Easter season on record. 997 01:04:06.079 --> 01:04:06.880 Bart smiled. 998 01:04:07.559 --> 01:04:12.119 Sometimes the most unlikely friendships create the strongest bonds. Jack 999 01:04:12.239 --> 01:04:15.559 nodded in agreement as he took the reins to the Warren. Then, 1000 01:04:16.079 --> 01:04:20.079 and the greatest easter the world has ever seen. With that, 1001 01:04:20.519 --> 01:04:23.519 the sleigh leaped forward, racing down the mountain side with 1002 01:04:23.599 --> 01:04:28.199 supernatural speed, carrying its unusual passengers toward the next chapter 1003 01:04:28.280 --> 01:04:32.519 of their adventure. The Warren had never seen such activity. 1004 01:04:33.119 --> 01:04:36.519 Rabbits scurried in every direction, their paws a blur as 1005 01:04:36.559 --> 01:04:40.400 they painted, packed, and processed eggs at an astonishing rate. 1006 01:04:41.280 --> 01:04:45.079 The normally organized production lines had transformed into a chaotic 1007 01:04:45.360 --> 01:04:49.599 but effective whirlwind of easter preparation. In the center of 1008 01:04:49.599 --> 01:04:54.679 Egg Central, an unlikely trio coordinated the massive operation. Edmund, 1009 01:04:54.880 --> 01:04:57.880 still in his explorer's vest, but now sporting a clipboard 1010 01:04:58.119 --> 01:05:02.960 and a harried expression. Jack Frost, his ethereal robes exchanged 1011 01:05:02.960 --> 01:05:06.119 for a practical blue apron, and Bart, who had to 1012 01:05:06.159 --> 01:05:08.719 crouch to avoid hitting his head on the Warren ceiling. 1013 01:05:09.639 --> 01:05:12.960 Sector three is behind on polka dot designs, Edmond announced, 1014 01:05:13.280 --> 01:05:18.519 checking his clipboard, Jack, can your sprites assist there? Jack nodded, 1015 01:05:18.880 --> 01:05:22.199 dispatching a group of tiny ice creatures with a graceful gesture. 1016 01:05:22.920 --> 01:05:26.920 The sprites, once fearsome servants of winter, now wielded minuscule 1017 01:05:27.000 --> 01:05:31.119 brushes with surprising skill, adding perfect polka dots to eggs 1018 01:05:31.159 --> 01:05:35.159 at incredible speed. Bart, how are the baskets coming along, 1019 01:05:35.280 --> 01:05:39.079 Edmond asked. Bart gave a thumbs up. Ahead of schedule. 1020 01:05:39.480 --> 01:05:43.199 My large hands can weave five at once. Indeed, the 1021 01:05:43.239 --> 01:05:47.719 sasquatch had proved remarkably adept at basket weaving, his dexterous 1022 01:05:47.719 --> 01:05:52.320 fingers creating intricate patterns despite their size. A growing pile 1023 01:05:52.360 --> 01:05:56.199 of completed baskets stood beside him, each perfect for holding 1024 01:05:56.239 --> 01:05:59.599 easter treasures. It had been three days since their return 1025 01:05:59.599 --> 01:06:03.039 from the more than falls, three days of non stop work, 1026 01:06:03.519 --> 01:06:08.239 ingenious problem solving, and unexpected camaraderie. With the egg of 1027 01:06:08.280 --> 01:06:11.760 renewal safely restored to its pedestal in the chronovault, its 1028 01:06:11.760 --> 01:06:15.679 balanced energy now flowed correctly through the Warren, empowering the 1029 01:06:15.760 --> 01:06:21.239 easter preparations as it should. Thattius, the skeptical chief operations officer, 1030 01:06:21.480 --> 01:06:24.880 hopped over to their command center, adjusting his spectacles nervously. 1031 01:06:25.760 --> 01:06:29.360 Mister Edmund, I must confess we're actually ahead of schedule 1032 01:06:29.360 --> 01:06:36.199 in most departments. It's unprecedented. Edmund beamed, excellent news, Thattius, 1033 01:06:36.960 --> 01:06:40.440 and how are you finding our new helpers? Thatteus glanced 1034 01:06:40.440 --> 01:06:43.280 at Jack and Bart, his nose twitching in what might 1035 01:06:43.320 --> 01:06:47.920 have been reluctant approval. Their methods are unconventional but effective, 1036 01:06:48.519 --> 01:06:53.320 particularly mister Frost's cooling system for the chocolate section. Most ingenious. 1037 01:06:54.199 --> 01:06:58.199 Jack had indeed revolutionized the chocolate egg production by creating 1038 01:06:58.199 --> 01:07:01.440 a perfectly controlled cold and envirol that allowed for more 1039 01:07:01.480 --> 01:07:05.679 intricate chocolate work without risk of melting. His precision with 1040 01:07:05.760 --> 01:07:11.519 temperature had proved invaluable, and the route planning Edmund inquired complete. 1041 01:07:11.679 --> 01:07:16.559 Thatius reported, though I must say mister Bartholomew's geographical knowledge 1042 01:07:16.599 --> 01:07:20.159 has been quite helpful. His suggestions for navigating the remote 1043 01:07:20.199 --> 01:07:23.679 areas of the Pacific Northwest will save us considerable time. 1044 01:07:24.519 --> 01:07:28.679 Bart nodded modestly. Centuries of observing human settlements and their 1045 01:07:28.760 --> 01:07:34.440 changes had given him an unparalleled understanding of the region's geography. Splendid, 1046 01:07:34.559 --> 01:07:37.800 Edmund clapped his paws together. At this rate, we'll be 1047 01:07:37.840 --> 01:07:41.440 ready for final distribution by tomorrow evening, right on schedule. 1048 01:07:42.440 --> 01:07:46.159 As Thatius hopped away to supervise the packaging department, Jack 1049 01:07:46.239 --> 01:07:49.400 leaned closer to Edmund. I still don't think he trusts 1050 01:07:49.440 --> 01:07:54.079 me entirely. Give him time, Edmund advised, Thattius has been 1051 01:07:54.119 --> 01:07:57.320 suspicious of change since the Renaissance. But the fact that 1052 01:07:57.360 --> 01:08:01.599 he acknowledged your contributions, that's practice a declaration of friendship, 1053 01:08:01.599 --> 01:08:05.119 and that he us speak. Bart chuckled, his deep laugh, 1054 01:08:05.199 --> 01:08:08.920 rumbling through the warrnt. Speaking of change, I've been meaning 1055 01:08:08.960 --> 01:08:13.199 to ask what happens after Easter? Jack, Will you return 1056 01:08:13.239 --> 01:08:18.800 to your winter duties? Jack nodded, though his expression was thoughtful. Yes, 1057 01:08:19.279 --> 01:08:22.119 but with a new perspective. Winter has its place in 1058 01:08:22.159 --> 01:08:25.199 the cycle, but so do the other seasons. I think 1059 01:08:25.239 --> 01:08:28.560 I'll focus more on Winter's beauty and less on its dominance, 1060 01:08:29.560 --> 01:08:33.399 a wise approach. Edmund agreed, and perhaps the Seasonal Council 1061 01:08:33.520 --> 01:08:38.119 might benefit from your renewed participation the Seasonal Council, Bart 1062 01:08:38.159 --> 01:08:43.159 inquired a governing body for seasonal spirits. Edmund explained, Jack 1063 01:08:43.279 --> 01:08:46.840 used to be a member before, before I started missing 1064 01:08:46.840 --> 01:08:51.479 meetings and ignoring their recommendations. Jack finished ruefully, Yes, I 1065 01:08:51.479 --> 01:08:55.319 should reconnect with them. Mother Nature has undoubtedly been concerned 1066 01:08:55.319 --> 01:08:59.520 about my recent behavior. Bart worked in silence for a moment, 1067 01:09:00.000 --> 01:09:03.760 gaving another basket with practiced ease. And what about me, 1068 01:09:04.000 --> 01:09:07.479 he finally asked, When Easter is over, do I simply 1069 01:09:07.520 --> 01:09:10.920 return to my solitary existence in the wood? Edmund and 1070 01:09:11.000 --> 01:09:15.119 Jack exchanged glances. That depends entirely on you, my friend, 1071 01:09:15.239 --> 01:09:19.640 Edmund said gently. The magical community would certainly welcome your participation. 1072 01:09:20.399 --> 01:09:23.840 Someone with your unique perspective and abilities would be an asset, 1073 01:09:24.880 --> 01:09:28.279 not to mention. Jack added, you've proven yourself quite adept 1074 01:09:28.279 --> 01:09:32.119 at magical crisis management. Those don't happen every day, thankfully, 1075 01:09:32.600 --> 01:09:36.279 But when they do. Bart looked around the warn at 1076 01:09:36.319 --> 01:09:40.640 the bustling activity, the sense of purpose and community. For 1077 01:09:40.720 --> 01:09:44.119 centuries he had valued his solitude, finding peace in the 1078 01:09:44.199 --> 01:09:47.319 quiet of the forest, and the simplicity of his routines. 1079 01:09:48.079 --> 01:09:51.199 But these past days had awakened something in him, a 1080 01:09:51.239 --> 01:09:56.680 longing for connection, for meaning beyond mere existence. Perhaps, he 1081 01:09:56.720 --> 01:10:00.760 said slowly, I could serve as a sort of liaison 1082 01:10:00.840 --> 01:10:04.239 between the magical world and the wilderness. There are many 1083 01:10:04.279 --> 01:10:08.359 creatures who might benefit from such a connection. Edmund's eyes 1084 01:10:08.399 --> 01:10:13.520 lit up. A wilderness ambassador, brilliant idea. We could establish 1085 01:10:13.560 --> 01:10:18.399 a communication network, perhaps quarterly meetings. Let's not get ahead 1086 01:10:18.399 --> 01:10:23.079 of ourselves, Bart laughed, small steps, first, we finish Easter. 1087 01:10:24.079 --> 01:10:27.119 Their conversation was interrupted by a young rabbit messenger who 1088 01:10:27.199 --> 01:10:32.359 came bounding up, clearly excited. Mister Edmund, the decorating contest 1089 01:10:32.399 --> 01:10:35.359 winners have been selected. They await your inspection in hall 1090 01:10:35.479 --> 01:10:39.880 c Edmund nodded, thank you, Timothy, I'll be right there. 1091 01:10:40.600 --> 01:10:44.319 He turned to his companions. Care to join me? This 1092 01:10:44.439 --> 01:10:48.359 is one of our most beloved traditions. They followed Edmund 1093 01:10:48.399 --> 01:10:51.159 through the war in tunnels to a large chamber where 1094 01:10:51.279 --> 01:10:55.239 rows of uniquely decorated eggs were displayed on velvet cushions. 1095 01:10:56.000 --> 01:11:01.079 Young rabbits stood proudly beside their creations, whiskers quiver with anticipation. 1096 01:11:02.199 --> 01:11:05.479 Each year, our apprentices compete to create the most beautiful eggs, 1097 01:11:05.560 --> 01:11:08.880 Edmund explained. The winners received the honor of having their 1098 01:11:08.880 --> 01:11:13.520 designs delivered to particularly special children. As they walked along 1099 01:11:13.560 --> 01:11:17.479 the displays, bart was astounded by the artistry. One egg 1100 01:11:17.560 --> 01:11:21.760 depicted a perfect miniature for a scene, complete with tiny animals, 1101 01:11:22.319 --> 01:11:25.840 Another shimmered with what appeared to be captured starlight. A 1102 01:11:25.880 --> 01:11:29.880 third changed colors depending on the viewing angle. They're remarkable, 1103 01:11:29.920 --> 01:11:34.880 he whispered. Jack nodded in agreement. Such creativity. I never 1104 01:11:34.920 --> 01:11:38.720 realized how much artistry went into Easter, Edmund beamed, like 1105 01:11:38.760 --> 01:11:42.680 a proud parent. Easter isn't just about candy in springtime. 1106 01:11:43.119 --> 01:11:48.039 It's about renewal, possibility, the celebration of new beginnings. Each 1107 01:11:48.079 --> 01:11:52.640 egg carries that message in its own way. After careful deliberation, 1108 01:11:53.079 --> 01:11:57.760 Edmund selected the winners. The forest scene egg, a spectacular 1109 01:11:57.840 --> 01:12:01.119 geometric pattern that seemed to fold in on itself impossibly, 1110 01:12:01.680 --> 01:12:05.000 and a simple but powerful design showing the sun rising 1111 01:12:05.000 --> 01:12:11.079 over mountains. Excellent choices, Jack approved, Especially the sunrise captures 1112 01:12:11.079 --> 01:12:14.800 the essence of the holiday. As they returned to Egg Central, 1113 01:12:15.119 --> 01:12:18.680 Edmond checked his pocket watch and frowned slightly. Just over 1114 01:12:18.720 --> 01:12:22.439 twenty four hours until the global distribution begins. We should 1115 01:12:22.439 --> 01:12:26.279 all get some rest before the final push, agreed, Bart said, 1116 01:12:26.520 --> 01:12:31.560 stifling a yawn. Despite his sasquatch stamina, the constant activity 1117 01:12:31.600 --> 01:12:35.079 had tired even him. They retired to the guest quarters. 1118 01:12:35.199 --> 01:12:39.800 Edmond had arranged a comfortable chamber adapted to accommodate Bart's size, 1119 01:12:40.079 --> 01:12:42.600 with soft moss bedding and a ceiling high enough for 1120 01:12:42.680 --> 01:12:46.680 him to stand upright. As Bart settled onto his moss bed, 1121 01:12:46.920 --> 01:12:49.680 he reflected on the strange turn his life had taken 1122 01:12:50.399 --> 01:12:53.479 from centuries of quiet observation to the heart of a 1123 01:12:53.520 --> 01:12:58.199 magical operation that touched the lives of children worldwide. It 1124 01:12:58.279 --> 01:13:01.720 was overwhelming in the best possible way. He was almost 1125 01:13:01.760 --> 01:13:04.680 asleep when a soft knock came at his door. It 1126 01:13:04.720 --> 01:13:09.760 was Edmund, looking uncharacteristically nervous. Sorry to disturb you, the 1127 01:13:09.840 --> 01:13:12.439 rabbit said, but there's something I need to show you 1128 01:13:12.960 --> 01:13:18.319 both of you. Jacket appeared behind Edmund, equally curious. Edmund 1129 01:13:18.359 --> 01:13:21.159 led them through a series of tunnels Bart hadn't seen before, 1130 01:13:21.720 --> 01:13:25.520 descending deeper into the earth. The passages here were ancient, 1131 01:13:25.960 --> 01:13:29.159 the walls inscribed with rabbit scripts, so old that even 1132 01:13:29.279 --> 01:13:32.960 Edmund had to pause occasionally to decipher it. Finally, they 1133 01:13:33.000 --> 01:13:37.920 reached a small circular chamber illuminated by phosphorescent moss. In 1134 01:13:37.960 --> 01:13:40.399 the center stood a pedestal supporting what appeared to be 1135 01:13:40.439 --> 01:13:45.520 an ordinary bird's egg, plain, white, undecorated, and quite small. 1136 01:13:46.479 --> 01:13:50.119 What is this place, Jack asked, his voice automatically dropping 1137 01:13:50.159 --> 01:13:54.840 to a whisper. The heart warn Edmund replied solemnly. And this, 1138 01:13:55.600 --> 01:13:58.479 he gestured to the modest egg, is the first egg? 1139 01:13:59.439 --> 01:14:00.960 The first egg, Bart repeated. 1140 01:14:01.680 --> 01:14:02.359 Edmund nodded. 1141 01:14:03.079 --> 01:14:05.399 Legend says it was laid by the cosmic goose at 1142 01:14:05.399 --> 01:14:08.039 the dawn of time. It's from this egg that all 1143 01:14:08.119 --> 01:14:12.560 renewal magic originates. Jack took a half step closer, his 1144 01:14:12.680 --> 01:14:16.720 eyes wide with wonder. I've heard whispers of this, but 1145 01:14:16.800 --> 01:14:20.039 I never thought. His voice trailed off as he stared 1146 01:14:20.079 --> 01:14:23.439 at the unassuming white egg. Why are you showing us 1147 01:14:23.479 --> 01:14:28.479 this now, Bart asked quietly. Edmond's expression grew serious, Because 1148 01:14:28.479 --> 01:14:31.920 something's happening ever since we restored the Egg of Renewal. 1149 01:14:32.199 --> 01:14:36.039 The first Egg has been communicating with me. It's been 1150 01:14:36.079 --> 01:14:41.560 dormant for centuries, but now it's awakening, communicating how Jack 1151 01:14:41.640 --> 01:14:47.640 asked dreams impressions, Edmund explained, It's difficult to describe, but 1152 01:14:47.680 --> 01:14:51.079 the message is becoming clear. The Shadow Court wasn't simply 1153 01:14:51.159 --> 01:14:54.319 using Jack to disrupt Easter. That was just one part 1154 01:14:54.359 --> 01:15:00.600 of a larger plan. Bart frowned, What larger plan? Stay 1155 01:15:00.600 --> 01:15:03.119 tuned for more sasquatch yotta see. We'll be right back 1156 01:15:03.159 --> 01:15:11.439 after these messages. The first Egg contains the purest essence 1157 01:15:11.439 --> 01:15:15.119 of renewal, the very concept of rebirth and new beginnings. 1158 01:15:15.279 --> 01:15:18.760 Edmund said, if the Shadow Court could corrupt it, as 1159 01:15:18.760 --> 01:15:21.960 they attempted with the Egg of Renewal, they could prevent 1160 01:15:22.000 --> 01:15:26.880 renewal itself. Jack finished his face pale, not just of seasons, 1161 01:15:27.359 --> 01:15:31.319 but of hope, growth, everything that allows the world to 1162 01:15:31.399 --> 01:15:36.920 begin anew precisely, Edmund confirmed grimly, and I believe they're 1163 01:15:36.960 --> 01:15:40.199 still trying. The disruption of the Egg of Renewal was 1164 01:15:40.279 --> 01:15:43.399 just a test, a practice run for their true target. 1165 01:15:44.359 --> 01:15:47.439 Bart studied the modest egg. How could they reach it? 1166 01:15:48.279 --> 01:15:51.239 You said, this place is the heart warrant. Surely it's 1167 01:15:51.279 --> 01:15:55.880 well protected by ancient magics. Yes, but those protections were 1168 01:15:55.920 --> 01:15:59.680 designed to prevent physical intrusion. The Shadow Court works through 1169 01:15:59.680 --> 01:16:05.199 in flo luents, through dreams and doubts. Edmond's ears drooped slightly. 1170 01:16:05.880 --> 01:16:09.680 They're subtle and patient. But why show us, Jack asked, 1171 01:16:10.319 --> 01:16:13.159 This seems like the sort of secret best kept among rabbits. 1172 01:16:14.079 --> 01:16:18.520 Edmund straightened his pink eyes, resolute, because the old ways 1173 01:16:18.520 --> 01:16:24.359 aren't working anymore. Isolation, separation between magical factions. These are 1174 01:16:24.399 --> 01:16:28.479 the very things the Shadow Court exploits. We need new allies, 1175 01:16:29.039 --> 01:16:33.199 new perspectives. He looked meaningfully at both of them. The 1176 01:16:33.239 --> 01:16:36.520 First Egg chose to reveal itself to you. I'm simply 1177 01:16:36.560 --> 01:16:40.840 following its guidance. Bart slowly reached out a massive finger, 1178 01:16:41.199 --> 01:16:44.600 stopping just short of touching the egg. What would you 1179 01:16:44.680 --> 01:16:49.119 have us do for now? Complete easter as planned? Edmund said. 1180 01:16:49.720 --> 01:16:52.800 The celebration of renewal strengthens the First Egg and weakens 1181 01:16:52.840 --> 01:16:57.159 the Shadow Court's influence. But afterward, he took a deep breath. 1182 01:16:57.960 --> 01:17:00.560 I believe we three are meant to undertake another journey 1183 01:17:01.000 --> 01:17:04.479 to secure the First Egg against what's coming. Jack and 1184 01:17:04.560 --> 01:17:09.520 Bart exchanged glances, a new understanding passing between them. Their 1185 01:17:09.560 --> 01:17:13.439 alliance hadn't been a temporary thing, after all, something larger 1186 01:17:13.520 --> 01:17:17.960 was unfolding. I'm in, Jack said simply. Bart nodded his 1187 01:17:18.000 --> 01:17:24.880 agreement as am I. Edmund smiled, relief evident in his expression. Good, 1188 01:17:25.680 --> 01:17:29.239 but for now we rest. Tomorrow will be the busiest 1189 01:17:29.319 --> 01:17:32.319 day in the Easter calendar and will need all our strength. 1190 01:17:33.479 --> 01:17:36.720 As they left the Heart Warren, Bart felt a curious sensation, 1191 01:17:37.359 --> 01:17:40.239 as if the plain white egg had somehow acknowledged him, 1192 01:17:40.720 --> 01:17:45.640 recognized him. It was both unsettling and strangely comforting. For 1193 01:17:45.720 --> 01:17:47.760 the first time in centuries, he felt as if he 1194 01:17:47.760 --> 01:17:51.960 had found not just a purpose, but a destiny. Easter 1195 01:17:52.079 --> 01:17:55.039 morning dawned clear and bright, with just the right touch 1196 01:17:55.039 --> 01:17:58.760 of spring warmth in the air. Throughout the Warren rabbits 1197 01:17:58.800 --> 01:18:03.720 donned their delivery gear, special vests with multiple pockets, compass attachments, 1198 01:18:03.920 --> 01:18:08.680 and lightweight baskets designed for maximum egg capacity. Bart Jack, 1199 01:18:08.720 --> 01:18:11.840 and Edmund stood at the main departure point, where dozens 1200 01:18:11.840 --> 01:18:15.239 of transportation tunnels led to different regions around the world. 1201 01:18:16.000 --> 01:18:19.640 The massive chamber buzzed with last minute preparations as rabbit 1202 01:18:19.680 --> 01:18:24.199 teams checked their roots and loaded their cargo. Everything's on schedule, 1203 01:18:24.319 --> 01:18:29.279 Edmund announced, consulting his clipboard with satisfaction. Regional team leaders 1204 01:18:29.319 --> 01:18:33.239 report all roots clear and weather conditions optimal. He glanced 1205 01:18:33.279 --> 01:18:37.520 at Jack with appreciation. Your weather coordination has been impeccable. 1206 01:18:38.239 --> 01:18:42.640 Jack smiled modestly, just doing my part. Winter is retreating 1207 01:18:42.720 --> 01:18:45.760 exactly as it should, with morning frost giving way to 1208 01:18:45.840 --> 01:18:49.520 perfect egg hunting temperatures. Bart, who had spent the early 1209 01:18:49.640 --> 01:18:54.920 hours organizing the basket distribution, nodded approvingly. Final basket count 1210 01:18:55.000 --> 01:18:58.119 is complete. We have exactly the right number for every 1211 01:18:58.159 --> 01:19:02.760 location US approached. Looking as close to relaxed as his 1212 01:19:02.800 --> 01:19:07.880 perpetually anxious personality allowed, mister Edmund, the first wave of 1213 01:19:07.920 --> 01:19:11.239 deliveries to New Zealand and Australia have been successfully completed. 1214 01:19:11.840 --> 01:19:13.199 Eastern Asia teams. 1215 01:19:12.920 --> 01:19:15.279 Are deploying now. Excellent. 1216 01:19:15.439 --> 01:19:18.920 Edmond checked his pocket watch. Right on schedule. We'll need 1217 01:19:18.960 --> 01:19:22.439 to begin North American preparations in precisely forty three minutes. 1218 01:19:23.439 --> 01:19:27.159 The Warren had been divided into geographical sectors, with special 1219 01:19:27.239 --> 01:19:31.039 rabbit teams assigned to each major region. As the earth 1220 01:19:31.159 --> 01:19:34.840 rotated and dawn approached different time zones, the teams would 1221 01:19:34.880 --> 01:19:39.000 deploy in carefully orchestrated waves, ensuring that easter eggs would 1222 01:19:39.039 --> 01:19:43.239 be waiting when children awoke. The system is remarkably efficient, 1223 01:19:43.319 --> 01:19:47.279 Bart observed, We've had centuries to perfect it. Edmund replied 1224 01:19:47.319 --> 01:19:51.239 with justifiable pride, though I must say having you two 1225 01:19:51.239 --> 01:19:55.319 has made this our smoothest operation in decades. Jack, who 1226 01:19:55.319 --> 01:19:59.039 had been observing the departing rabbits with interest, suddenly frowned. 1227 01:19:59.680 --> 01:20:03.680 Do you I feel that Bart and Edmund paused? Alert 1228 01:20:03.680 --> 01:20:07.800 to the winter spirit's concern a temperature drop, Bart confirmed 1229 01:20:08.359 --> 01:20:12.159 his sensitive skin, detecting the subtle change just a few 1230 01:20:12.159 --> 01:20:18.079 degrees but unnatural. Edmund's nose twitched rapidly, a sign of 1231 01:20:18.119 --> 01:20:23.239 heightened awareness. Something's wrong. No sooner had he spoken than 1232 01:20:23.279 --> 01:20:27.119 a ripple of disquiet passed through the chamber. Rabbit messengers 1233 01:20:27.119 --> 01:20:30.840 were arriving from various tunnels, their expressions worried as they 1234 01:20:30.880 --> 01:20:34.720 reported to team leaders. One young messenger hopped directly to 1235 01:20:34.880 --> 01:20:40.640 Edmund Sir, reports of unexpected snowstorms in multiple sectors Eastern Europe, 1236 01:20:40.920 --> 01:20:46.439 Western Asia, and parts of North America. Snowstorms. That's impossible, 1237 01:20:46.520 --> 01:20:52.399 Jack protested, I've coordinated perfect spring conditions worldwide. Another messenger 1238 01:20:52.479 --> 01:20:57.279 arrived even more agitated. Northern delivery teams report ice formations 1239 01:20:57.319 --> 01:21:01.600 blocking tunnels, delivery roots to Scandonation and Canada are completely 1240 01:21:01.640 --> 01:21:06.279 sealed off. This isn't natural weather, Jack stated grimly, this 1241 01:21:06.439 --> 01:21:12.039 is targeted magical interference. Edmund's expression darkened the shadow court. 1242 01:21:12.600 --> 01:21:16.520 They're making their move. But how Bart wondered, You said 1243 01:21:16.560 --> 01:21:20.840 they were banished unable to directly affect our world. They 1244 01:21:20.840 --> 01:21:25.359 need agents, Edmund explained, hurriedly, physical beings to execute their plans. 1245 01:21:26.119 --> 01:21:29.920 He glanced meaningfully at Jack. I'm not their only contact. 1246 01:21:30.039 --> 01:21:33.279 Jack realized they must have recruited others while I was 1247 01:21:33.880 --> 01:21:37.479 distracted with my own plans that he has hopped over 1248 01:21:37.840 --> 01:21:43.039 his spectacles askew with distress, mister Edmund, disruptions are expanding. 1249 01:21:43.479 --> 01:21:46.479 At this rate, we'll miss deliveries to nearly forty percent 1250 01:21:46.520 --> 01:21:51.439 of our target regions. Edmund's ears stood straight up with determination. 1251 01:21:52.239 --> 01:21:56.640 Not on my watch, Thaddeus, activate emergency protocol. Hippitie hop. 1252 01:21:57.600 --> 01:22:00.800 Despite the gravity of the situation, Jack raised an eyebrow. 1253 01:22:01.479 --> 01:22:06.359 Hippity hop, don't judge, Edmund replied, defensively. The naming committee 1254 01:22:06.359 --> 01:22:10.439 has a particular esthetic Thaddeus nodded briskly and hopped away, 1255 01:22:10.960 --> 01:22:13.720 shouting orders that sent the Warren into a new pattern 1256 01:22:13.760 --> 01:22:19.479 of activity. Rabbits began regrouping, consolidating resources, and consulting alternate 1257 01:22:19.560 --> 01:22:25.279 route maps. What's the protocol, Bart asked, contingency planning. Edmund explained, 1258 01:22:25.800 --> 01:22:29.600 We're consolidating teams and re routing through unaffected tunnels. It 1259 01:22:29.600 --> 01:22:32.560 will mean double shifts for some delivery rabbits, but we've 1260 01:22:32.560 --> 01:22:36.000 trained for this. It won't be enough, Jack said quietly. 1261 01:22:36.640 --> 01:22:39.800 Not if the Shadow Court is behind this, the disruptions 1262 01:22:39.800 --> 01:22:44.279 will continue to spread. Edmund's whiskers drooped momentarily before he 1263 01:22:44.319 --> 01:22:49.399 squared his shoulders. Then we adapt, Bart, Jack, I need 1264 01:22:49.439 --> 01:22:52.199 your help more than ever. Tell us what to do, 1265 01:22:52.279 --> 01:22:56.479 Bart said, immediately. Jack, you're the winter expert. Can you 1266 01:22:56.520 --> 01:23:01.199 counter these unnatural storms? Clear pathways through the afe regions? 1267 01:23:01.760 --> 01:23:05.800 Jack considered this, frost forming and dissipating between his fingertips 1268 01:23:05.800 --> 01:23:09.359 as he thought, I can't stop all of it. Whoever's 1269 01:23:09.439 --> 01:23:12.479 channeling this winter magic is drawing on Shadow Court power. 1270 01:23:13.039 --> 01:23:17.920 But I can create corridors of calm, temporary pathways where 1271 01:23:17.960 --> 01:23:23.319 spring can assert itself perfect. Edmund nodded and Bart, I 1272 01:23:23.359 --> 01:23:27.479 need your wilderness knowledge. Some of our traditional roots are compromised, 1273 01:23:27.960 --> 01:23:32.399 but there must be alternate paths, animal trails, forgotten ways 1274 01:23:32.439 --> 01:23:37.920 through forests and mountains. Bart nodded confidently. The wilderness always 1275 01:23:37.920 --> 01:23:41.640 offers multiple paths to those who know how to look good. 1276 01:23:41.800 --> 01:23:45.520 Edmund said, but there's more. With our forces spread thin, 1277 01:23:46.159 --> 01:23:51.439 we need direct intervention, meaning, Jack asked. Edmund took a 1278 01:23:51.439 --> 01:23:54.119 deep breath, meaning you too will need to make some 1279 01:23:54.199 --> 01:24:00.319 deliveries yourselves. Bart and Jack exchanged startled glances us. Bart 1280 01:24:00.359 --> 01:24:04.720 rumbled deliver easter eggs. But I've spent centuries avoiding being 1281 01:24:04.760 --> 01:24:08.680 seen by humans, and I'm literally Jack frost. Jack added, 1282 01:24:09.239 --> 01:24:14.479 not exactly the face of easter desperate times. Edmund shrugged. Besides, 1283 01:24:14.880 --> 01:24:18.199 you both have advantages. Jack, you can travel on the 1284 01:24:18.239 --> 01:24:22.079 wind reach places even our fastest rabbits can't access quickly. 1285 01:24:22.640 --> 01:24:26.560 And Bart, you know the wilderness intimately you can navigate 1286 01:24:26.600 --> 01:24:30.920 the most remote deliveries. But what about being seen? Bart pressed, 1287 01:24:31.600 --> 01:24:34.600 The same magic that helps my rabbits remain undetected will 1288 01:24:34.600 --> 01:24:35.560 shield you as well. 1289 01:24:35.680 --> 01:24:36.640 Edmund assured him. 1290 01:24:37.079 --> 01:24:41.119 Children might glimpse you, but adults will rationalize away any sightings. 1291 01:24:41.560 --> 01:24:44.920 It's part of the Eastern Magic before they could discuss 1292 01:24:44.960 --> 01:24:51.159 further that he has returned looking marginally calmer. Emergency protocols activated, Sir. 1293 01:24:51.720 --> 01:24:54.800 Teams are reorganizing, but we still have significant gaps in 1294 01:24:54.840 --> 01:24:58.880 the northwestern territories and parts of the Eastern Seaboard. That's 1295 01:24:58.920 --> 01:25:02.319 where you'll go, Edmund told Bart. The Pacific Northwest is 1296 01:25:02.319 --> 01:25:02.840 your domain. 1297 01:25:02.920 --> 01:25:05.560 Anyway. You'll take the rural routes through. 1298 01:25:05.479 --> 01:25:11.600 Washington, Oregon, northern California, and western Canada. Bart nodded, already 1299 01:25:11.640 --> 01:25:16.520 mentally mapping the territories and Jack. Edmund continued, you'll handle 1300 01:25:16.560 --> 01:25:21.039 the northeastern roots, New England, Eastern Canada, and the Upper Midwest. 1301 01:25:21.600 --> 01:25:23.680 Your ability to ride the wind will let you cover 1302 01:25:23.760 --> 01:25:24.520 ground quickly. 1303 01:25:25.439 --> 01:25:26.800 What about you, Jack asked. 1304 01:25:27.600 --> 01:25:32.159 Edmund's pink eyes gleamed with determination. I'll be coordinating from here, 1305 01:25:32.520 --> 01:25:36.640 but also making key deliveries myself. Some households receive special 1306 01:25:36.680 --> 01:25:40.399 eggs directly from the Easter Bunny, a tradition I cannot neglect, 1307 01:25:40.800 --> 01:25:45.399 especially now. A rabbit assistant appeared with specialized equipment for 1308 01:25:45.439 --> 01:25:49.880 their new roles, a delivery satchel sized for Bart's large frame, 1309 01:25:50.239 --> 01:25:53.119 and a frost lined basket for Jack it would protect 1310 01:25:53.119 --> 01:25:56.039 the eggs while allowing him to use his winter powers. 1311 01:25:56.640 --> 01:25:59.880 The eggs themselves will guide you, Edmund explained as they prepared. 1312 01:26:00.640 --> 01:26:03.079 Easter magic insures they know where they need to go. 1313 01:26:03.760 --> 01:26:08.479 Trust that instinct. As the Warren continued its organized chaos 1314 01:26:08.479 --> 01:26:13.560 of emergency preparations, the three unlikely allies stood together, newly 1315 01:26:13.600 --> 01:26:17.640 outfitted for their unexpected mission. I never imagined I'd be 1316 01:26:17.680 --> 01:26:21.119 delivering Easter eggs, Jack mused, testing the weight of his 1317 01:26:21.199 --> 01:26:25.920 frost line basket nor I. Bart agreed, adjusting his satchel. 1318 01:26:26.600 --> 01:26:29.279 But then I never imagined I'd be friends with the 1319 01:26:29.319 --> 01:26:33.079 Easter Bunny and Jack Frost either. Edmund checked his pocket 1320 01:26:33.079 --> 01:26:37.600 watch again. North American deployment begins in twelve minutes. Are 1321 01:26:37.600 --> 01:26:42.199 you both ready? Jack grinned a touch of his old mischievousness, 1322 01:26:42.199 --> 01:26:48.479 returning ready to save Easter absolutely. Bart nodded solemnly. The 1323 01:26:48.520 --> 01:26:52.560 Shadow Court won't win this day. With final instructions from 1324 01:26:52.680 --> 01:26:56.039 Edmund and route maps tucked securely away, they headed for 1325 01:26:56.079 --> 01:27:00.199 their respective departure tunnels. The Great Easter Delivery was about 1326 01:27:00.239 --> 01:27:03.880 to begin in the most unusual fashion in holiday history. 1327 01:27:04.600 --> 01:27:08.000 The Pacific Northwest was Bart's home territory, but he'd never 1328 01:27:08.039 --> 01:27:11.560 seen it quite like this before. Traveling through the special 1329 01:27:11.640 --> 01:27:15.319 rabbit tunnels that emerged in forests, urban parks, and rural 1330 01:27:15.359 --> 01:27:18.880 back roads, he moved with surprising stealth for a creature 1331 01:27:18.920 --> 01:27:22.720 of his size. The delivery satchel enchanted to never run 1332 01:27:22.760 --> 01:27:26.319 out of eggs hung comfortably at his side. His first 1333 01:27:26.319 --> 01:27:29.479 stops were the remote cabins and farmhouses scattered. 1334 01:27:29.079 --> 01:27:29.840 Through the mountains. 1335 01:27:30.600 --> 01:27:34.720 These were places Edmund had marked as challenging deliveries, homes 1336 01:27:34.760 --> 01:27:39.640 far from main roots, often with difficult access. For Bart, however, 1337 01:27:39.840 --> 01:27:44.000 they were simple. He knew every mountain path, every game trail, 1338 01:27:44.399 --> 01:27:48.079 every shortcut through the deep woods. At a cabin perched 1339 01:27:48.119 --> 01:27:50.960 on a mountain side, accessible only by a treacherous dirt 1340 01:27:51.079 --> 01:27:54.680 road that was currently muddy with spring thaw, Bart carefully 1341 01:27:54.720 --> 01:27:59.359 approached the porch. Two handmade baskets sat waiting. The eggs 1342 01:27:59.399 --> 01:28:01.600 in his satchel seemed to hum as he reached in, 1343 01:28:02.119 --> 01:28:05.960 selecting exactly the right combinations for each basket without even 1344 01:28:06.039 --> 01:28:09.239 having to think about it. The magic Edmund had mentioned 1345 01:28:09.359 --> 01:28:12.680 was real. The eggs truly did know where they belonged, 1346 01:28:13.840 --> 01:28:17.119 as he arranged colorful eggs in the baskets, Bart felt 1347 01:28:17.119 --> 01:28:20.640 a presence watching him. Glancing up, he saw a young girl, 1348 01:28:21.079 --> 01:28:24.880 perhaps seven years old, staring wide eyed through her bedroom window. 1349 01:28:25.680 --> 01:28:29.000 Instead of hiding as he normally would, Bart smiled gently 1350 01:28:29.039 --> 01:28:31.479 and raised a massive finger to his lips in a 1351 01:28:31.680 --> 01:28:36.239 sh gesture. The girl's mouth formed a perfect oh of wonder, 1352 01:28:36.600 --> 01:28:40.800 and she nodded solemnly, clearly understanding the importance of secrets 1353 01:28:40.800 --> 01:28:46.319 on Easter Eve. The interaction left Bart feeling strangely warm inside. 1354 01:28:46.359 --> 01:28:50.159 For centuries, he had hidden from humans, viewing them primarily 1355 01:28:50.199 --> 01:28:53.319 as a threat, but seeing the pure wonder in the 1356 01:28:53.439 --> 01:28:57.159 child's eyes offered a different perspective. There was magic in 1357 01:28:57.199 --> 01:29:01.479 being seen, sometimes in the right circumstances, by the right people. 1358 01:29:02.399 --> 01:29:05.000 As he continued his route, Bart found a rhythm to 1359 01:29:05.079 --> 01:29:09.119 the work. The remote homesteads gave way to small rural communities, 1360 01:29:09.600 --> 01:29:12.159 then to suburban neighborhoods as he worked his way toward 1361 01:29:12.199 --> 01:29:16.079 the coast. In each place, he moved with impressive stealth, 1362 01:29:16.560 --> 01:29:20.680 his naturally quiet forest walking skills serving him well. In 1363 01:29:20.720 --> 01:29:24.159 a small town in Oregon, bart encountered his first complication. 1364 01:29:24.920 --> 01:29:27.960 A patch of unnatural ice covered the entire town park, 1365 01:29:28.600 --> 01:29:32.640 a key access point for several neighborhoods. The ice gleamed 1366 01:29:32.680 --> 01:29:34.960 with a subtle blue black shimmer that marked it as 1367 01:29:35.000 --> 01:29:38.840 shadow Court influence. Remembering the frost seed he had kept 1368 01:29:38.840 --> 01:29:42.199 from their earlier adventure, Bart retrieved it from his pocket. 1369 01:29:43.000 --> 01:29:46.439 Edmund had explained how Jack's frost seeds worked with winter energy. 1370 01:29:47.039 --> 01:29:50.399 Perhaps this one, already exposed to the spring dust, could 1371 01:29:50.399 --> 01:29:53.680 be useful. Carefully, he placed the seed at the edge 1372 01:29:53.680 --> 01:29:56.800 of the ice field and concentrated, trying to remember how 1373 01:29:56.880 --> 01:30:01.720 Jack had manipulated winter energies to his The seed responded, 1374 01:30:02.199 --> 01:30:05.439 glowing faintly as fracture lines spread from it across the ice. 1375 01:30:06.239 --> 01:30:10.000 Within moments, the unnatural ice began to recede, creating a 1376 01:30:10.039 --> 01:30:13.880 path just wide enough for bart to pass through. Interesting, 1377 01:30:14.079 --> 01:30:17.439 he murmured to himself. The seed seemed to have absorbed 1378 01:30:17.439 --> 01:30:19.680 some of the spring magic and was now capable of 1379 01:30:19.760 --> 01:30:24.000 counteracting the Shadow Court's winter influence. He pocketed it again, 1380 01:30:24.479 --> 01:30:27.840 suspecting it might be needed further along his route, and 1381 01:30:27.920 --> 01:30:32.479 indeed it was. Three more times bart encountered magical barriers 1382 01:30:32.520 --> 01:30:36.399 meant to impede easter deliveries. Each time the frost seed 1383 01:30:36.439 --> 01:30:39.079 helped him clear a path, though he noticed it grew 1384 01:30:39.119 --> 01:30:42.680 dimmer with each use. By the fourth location, it barely 1385 01:30:42.680 --> 01:30:47.960 glowed at all. Despite these challenges, Bart's deliveries proceeded remarkably smoothly. 1386 01:30:48.720 --> 01:30:51.880 The eggs guided him to each correct household, and his 1387 01:30:52.000 --> 01:30:54.600 natural woodland stealth kept him hidden from all but the 1388 01:30:54.640 --> 01:30:58.520 most observant children, who, true to Edmund's word, seemed to 1389 01:30:58.560 --> 01:31:02.920 accept his presence as part of Easter's magic. Meanwhile, halfway 1390 01:31:02.920 --> 01:31:06.560 across the continent, Jack Frost was experiencing a very different 1391 01:31:06.640 --> 01:31:10.960 kind of delivery route. Where Bart moved with deliberate stealth, 1392 01:31:11.319 --> 01:31:14.800 Jack soared on the wind, racing from rooftop to rooftop 1393 01:31:14.840 --> 01:31:19.319 across New England. His frost lined basket remained perfectly balanced 1394 01:31:19.319 --> 01:31:23.840 as he leaped and glided, The eggs nestled safely inside. 1395 01:31:23.960 --> 01:31:27.640 Jack's challenge wasn't stealth, but speed. The Northeast had been 1396 01:31:27.680 --> 01:31:32.039 hit particularly hard by the Shadow Court's weather manipulation. Unnatural 1397 01:31:32.039 --> 01:31:36.119 snow drifts blocked roads and covered houses, while icy winds 1398 01:31:36.159 --> 01:31:40.399 that weren't of his making howled between buildings. Amateur work. 1399 01:31:40.520 --> 01:31:43.720 Jack muttered as he counted another burst of chaotic winter energy. 1400 01:31:44.399 --> 01:31:47.800 Whoever the Shadow Court had recruited as his replacement clearly 1401 01:31:47.880 --> 01:31:51.079 lacked his finesse and understanding of how winter magic should flow. 1402 01:31:51.960 --> 01:31:56.279 In Boston, Jack encountered his most significant obstacle yet, a 1403 01:31:56.279 --> 01:32:00.000 swirling vortex of black ice and snow that engulfed several 1404 01:32:00.199 --> 01:32:05.359 city blocks. Children's homes lay beyond unreachable by normal means. 1405 01:32:06.159 --> 01:32:08.720 Jack set his basket down on a rooftop and focused. 1406 01:32:09.399 --> 01:32:12.399 This was more than just weather manipulation. It was a 1407 01:32:12.439 --> 01:32:17.079 direct manifestation of Shadow Court energy fighting. It would require 1408 01:32:17.199 --> 01:32:21.039 all his skill, summoning his winter powers. Now balanced and 1409 01:32:21.079 --> 01:32:24.399 harmonious after his encounter with the Egg of Renewal, Jack 1410 01:32:24.439 --> 01:32:27.680 sent tendrils of pure white frost to counter the black 1411 01:32:27.720 --> 01:32:32.199 ice storm. Where they met, sparks of magical energy flashed. 1412 01:32:32.720 --> 01:32:35.439 It was like a battle between two different conceptions of winter, 1413 01:32:36.079 --> 01:32:41.319 one natural and necessary, the other corrupted and destructive. Gradually, 1414 01:32:41.399 --> 01:32:45.000 Jack's white frost gained ground, creating a corridor through the 1415 01:32:45.039 --> 01:32:48.600 magical storm. It wouldn't last long, but it would give 1416 01:32:48.680 --> 01:32:52.279 him enough time to make his deliveries. Snatching up his basket, 1417 01:32:52.319 --> 01:32:55.399 he dashed through the opening, dropping eggs into yards and 1418 01:32:55.439 --> 01:32:59.800 porches with remarkable precision. As he worked, Jack found himself 1419 01:32:59.840 --> 01:33:03.000 in enjoying the task more than he'd expected. There was 1420 01:33:03.039 --> 01:33:06.960 satisfaction in bringing joy rather than merely cold, and being 1421 01:33:07.039 --> 01:33:10.680 part of a tradition that celebrated renewal rather than dormancy. 1422 01:33:11.479 --> 01:33:13.800 Perhaps this was what had been missing in his centuries 1423 01:33:13.840 --> 01:33:17.239 as a winter spirit, a connection to the full cycle 1424 01:33:17.279 --> 01:33:20.039 of seasons, to the joy that could be found in 1425 01:33:20.079 --> 01:33:24.680 transition and change. Back in the warrant, Edmund coordinated the 1426 01:33:24.720 --> 01:33:29.359 emergency operations while making his own special deliveries. The situation 1427 01:33:29.520 --> 01:33:32.840 reports coming in from around the world were mixed. In 1428 01:33:32.920 --> 01:33:37.159 some regions, the magical disruptions were minimal, and deliveries proceeded 1429 01:33:37.199 --> 01:33:41.359 almost normally. In others, Rabbit teams had to employ every 1430 01:33:41.399 --> 01:33:45.720 trick and contingency plan in their considerable arsenal. The Shadow 1431 01:33:45.720 --> 01:33:49.399 Court's influence seemed focused primarily on North America and parts 1432 01:33:49.399 --> 01:33:54.359 of Europe, a strategic choice, Edmund suspected, targeting the regions 1433 01:33:54.399 --> 01:33:58.520 where Easter traditions were strongest. By disrupting the holiday in 1434 01:33:58.560 --> 01:34:01.800 its most established territory worries, they hoped to weaken the 1435 01:34:01.840 --> 01:34:05.199 renewal magic at its core. But what the Shadow Court 1436 01:34:05.239 --> 01:34:08.720 hadn't counted on was the resourcefulness of the Easter operation, 1437 01:34:09.560 --> 01:34:12.920 nor the unexpected alliance that had formed between three very 1438 01:34:12.920 --> 01:34:17.359 different magical beings. Reports of Bart's progress showed a steady 1439 01:34:17.359 --> 01:34:21.520 completion of the most challenging rural routes, often ahead of schedule. 1440 01:34:22.319 --> 01:34:25.720 Jack was blazing through urban deliveries at an astonishing pace, 1441 01:34:26.279 --> 01:34:29.920 clearing magical obstacles that would have stymied the regular rabbit teams, 1442 01:34:30.520 --> 01:34:35.039 and Edmund himself was managing the special deliveries. The households that, 1443 01:34:35.359 --> 01:34:40.079 through generations of belief or particular magical significance, received eggs 1444 01:34:40.119 --> 01:34:43.760 directly from the Easter bunny. These were often the homes 1445 01:34:43.760 --> 01:34:47.760 of children at important crossroads, those who particularly needed the 1446 01:34:47.760 --> 01:34:51.680 hope and renewal that Easter represented. At one such home, 1447 01:34:51.720 --> 01:34:55.520 as Edmund carefully arranged hand painted eggs in an elaborate basket, 1448 01:34:56.000 --> 01:35:00.359 he sensed a familiar, cold presence. Hello, Edmund, came a 1449 01:35:00.439 --> 01:35:04.000 voice like Icicles, breaking, how inconsiderate of you to keep 1450 01:35:04.000 --> 01:35:06.880 delivering when we've gone to such trouble to disrupt your 1451 01:35:06.880 --> 01:35:11.279 little holiday. Edmond turned slowly to face a tall, thin 1452 01:35:11.399 --> 01:35:16.000 figure who resembled Jack Frost, but with crucial differences. Where 1453 01:35:16.119 --> 01:35:20.279 Jack's winter presence felt crisp and clean. This being emanated 1454 01:35:20.279 --> 01:35:23.520 a bone deep chill that spoke of endless, frozen darkness. 1455 01:35:24.239 --> 01:35:26.800 His eyes glowed with the same blue black light as 1456 01:35:26.840 --> 01:35:30.479 the ice barricades and frost patterns that resembled skulls and 1457 01:35:30.479 --> 01:35:36.000 twisted faces spread wherever he stepped boreas Edmund acknowledged calmly, 1458 01:35:36.520 --> 01:35:40.000 though his heart raced. I wondered which winter spirit they'd 1459 01:35:40.000 --> 01:35:45.960 corrupted to replace Jack, the north Wind Spirit, sneered corrupted. Please, 1460 01:35:46.600 --> 01:35:50.079 the Shadow Court merely recognized my true worth, something the 1461 01:35:50.079 --> 01:35:54.520 seasonal Council never did, always favoring Jack with his playful 1462 01:35:54.520 --> 01:35:58.640 snowflakes and gentle frosts. He spat the words like they 1463 01:35:58.680 --> 01:36:02.199 tasted foul. And how are your new allies treating you? 1464 01:36:02.359 --> 01:36:06.960 Edmund asked conversationally, suddenly reaching into his vest pocket. Do 1465 01:36:07.039 --> 01:36:10.319 they respect you, Bereus, or are you simply a tool 1466 01:36:10.399 --> 01:36:15.399 to further their goals? Uncertainty flickered briefly across Bereus's face 1467 01:36:15.439 --> 01:36:19.600 before his expression hardened. They've given me power beyond anything 1468 01:36:19.600 --> 01:36:23.479 the council permitted. Look around you, My winter refuses to 1469 01:36:23.560 --> 01:36:27.840 yield to your pathetic spring for now, Edmund agreed mildly. 1470 01:36:28.520 --> 01:36:32.560 But Winter always yields. Eventually. It's the natural order, something 1471 01:36:32.640 --> 01:36:37.319 Jack came to understand. Jack turned weak. Borius snarled, but 1472 01:36:37.359 --> 01:36:39.920 I won't make the same mistake, and I won't allow 1473 01:36:39.960 --> 01:36:43.119 you to complete your deliveries. He raised his hands and 1474 01:36:43.159 --> 01:36:46.960 the temperature plummeted ice began to form around Edmond's feet, 1475 01:36:47.319 --> 01:36:51.560 creeping upward rapidly. The Shadow Court has taught me new tricks, 1476 01:36:51.600 --> 01:36:55.560 Borius gloated. This ice doesn't just freeze the body, it 1477 01:36:55.600 --> 01:36:59.399 freezes time itself. You'll be locked in stasis until long 1478 01:36:59.439 --> 01:37:03.520 after your p rescious Easter has passed. Edmund didn't struggle 1479 01:37:03.560 --> 01:37:08.840 against the advancing ice. Instead, he smiled, interesting technique, But 1480 01:37:08.920 --> 01:37:11.239 you forget something important about Easter, Bereus. 1481 01:37:12.039 --> 01:37:15.640 Oh, and what's that? It's about? Surprises. 1482 01:37:16.520 --> 01:37:19.199 With that, Edmond pulled a brightly colored egg from his 1483 01:37:19.279 --> 01:37:23.079 pocket and smashed it against the encroaching ice. The egg 1484 01:37:23.159 --> 01:37:26.359 exploded in a burst of spring magic so intense that 1485 01:37:26.479 --> 01:37:31.199 Boreus was thrown backward. The temporal ice shattered, releasing Edmund, 1486 01:37:31.439 --> 01:37:35.000 and pastel colored light filled the room momentarily before fading 1487 01:37:35.800 --> 01:37:39.760 a power egg, Edmund explained, brushing shell fragments from his fur. 1488 01:37:40.439 --> 01:37:46.159 Concentrated spring essence useful for emergencies. Bereas scrambled to his feet, 1489 01:37:46.640 --> 01:37:51.479 his expression twisted with rage. This isn't over, Rabbit. The 1490 01:37:51.520 --> 01:37:55.600 Shadow Court's plans go far beyond ruining one Easter. Soon 1491 01:37:55.920 --> 01:37:59.560 we'll reach the first Egg itself, and then you know 1492 01:37:59.600 --> 01:38:03.439 about the first Egg? Edmund interrupted, his calm demeanor, slipping 1493 01:38:03.479 --> 01:38:08.319 for the first time. Berea smiled cruelly. Oh yes, my 1494 01:38:08.439 --> 01:38:10.920 masters know all about it. Why do you think we 1495 01:38:11.000 --> 01:38:14.640 targeted Easter. It's merely the first step in our greater plan. 1496 01:38:15.479 --> 01:38:19.039 He backed toward the window. Enjoy your hollow victory today. 1497 01:38:19.520 --> 01:38:22.640 The real battle is yet to come. With that, he 1498 01:38:22.760 --> 01:38:25.840 transformed into a bitter wind and vanished into the night, 1499 01:38:26.479 --> 01:38:30.359 leaving behind only a dusting of black frost that quickly melted. 1500 01:38:31.319 --> 01:38:35.079 Edmund stood motionless for a long moment, processing this new information. 1501 01:38:35.880 --> 01:38:39.119 The situation was worse than he'd feared. If the Shadow 1502 01:38:39.159 --> 01:38:42.359 Court knew about the First Egg and had specifically targeted 1503 01:38:42.399 --> 01:38:45.560 Easter as part of their approach, he needed to warn 1504 01:38:45.600 --> 01:38:49.359 Bart and Jack, But first he would complete his deliveries. 1505 01:38:50.039 --> 01:38:55.000 Whatever larger threat loomed, today's mission remained. Sacred children would 1506 01:38:55.000 --> 01:38:58.159 wake to find their Easter eggs, renewal, magic would flow, 1507 01:38:58.479 --> 01:39:01.600 and Spring would continue its advance ants. That much, at 1508 01:39:01.680 --> 01:39:04.880 least he could insure. As the night wore on, the 1509 01:39:04.920 --> 01:39:09.279 three allies continued their separate journeys across the continent. Bart 1510 01:39:09.319 --> 01:39:12.000 moved steadily through the forests and mountains of the west. 1511 01:39:12.760 --> 01:39:15.439 Jack soared over the cities and suburbs of the east. 1512 01:39:16.319 --> 01:39:20.000 Edmund hopped from special home to special home, leaving behind 1513 01:39:20.119 --> 01:39:24.039 not just eggs, but the magic of renewal itself. Despite 1514 01:39:24.039 --> 01:39:27.680 the Shadow Court's efforts, Easter was proceeding, the eggs were 1515 01:39:27.680 --> 01:39:31.159 being delivered, the magic was flowing, and somewhere in the 1516 01:39:31.199 --> 01:39:35.760 warren the first egg remained safe for now. But Marius's 1517 01:39:35.800 --> 01:39:39.199 words lingered in Edmund's mind. The real battle was yet 1518 01:39:39.199 --> 01:39:41.920 to come, and when it did, they would need to 1519 01:39:41.920 --> 01:39:45.359 be ready. As the first light of Easter morning touched 1520 01:39:45.359 --> 01:39:49.680 the eastern seaboard, Jack completed his final delivery, a special 1521 01:39:49.800 --> 01:39:53.359 arrangement of frost patterned eggs for a children's hospital in Montreal. 1522 01:39:54.319 --> 01:39:57.359 The pale, blue and white eggs, chilled to perfect coolness, 1523 01:39:57.520 --> 01:40:01.199 would maintain their unique patterns until discovery by the young patients, 1524 01:40:01.720 --> 01:40:03.199 bringing a moment of wonder to. 1525 01:40:03.159 --> 01:40:04.439 Those who needed it most. 1526 01:40:05.399 --> 01:40:08.359 Jack took a moment to admire his handiwork before riding 1527 01:40:08.399 --> 01:40:12.439 the wind westward. According to Edmund's instructions, they were to 1528 01:40:12.520 --> 01:40:16.359 reconvene at the war and once their deliveries were complete. 1529 01:40:16.479 --> 01:40:19.760 Jack had finished his assigned roots ahead of schedule, despite 1530 01:40:19.800 --> 01:40:23.279 the numerous magical obstacles Bereus had scattered throughout the region. 1531 01:40:24.119 --> 01:40:27.359 As he flew, Jack reflected on the night's work. He 1532 01:40:27.520 --> 01:40:30.960 visited thousands of homes, leaving behind eggs that would bring 1533 01:40:31.079 --> 01:40:35.039 joy and wonder to children wakening on Easter morning. It 1534 01:40:35.079 --> 01:40:38.159 was a new kind of satisfaction, different from the pleasure 1535 01:40:38.199 --> 01:40:42.159 he took in crafting perfect snowflakes or creating intricate frost 1536 01:40:42.199 --> 01:40:46.439 patterns on windows. This joy was about connection, about being 1537 01:40:46.520 --> 01:40:50.840 part of a tradition that celebrated renewal and possibility. Perhaps 1538 01:40:50.840 --> 01:40:53.159 he thought this was what he had been missing all 1539 01:40:53.199 --> 01:40:58.399 those centuries, Not recognition or dominance, but purpose, a way 1540 01:40:58.439 --> 01:41:00.960 to use his winter magic that complemented the cycle of 1541 01:41:01.039 --> 01:41:05.600 seasons rather than fighting against it. These philosophical musings were 1542 01:41:05.600 --> 01:41:09.920 interrupted as Jack spotted an unusual sight below, a massive 1543 01:41:10.000 --> 01:41:13.960 sasquatch moving with surprising grace through a suburban park in the. 1544 01:41:13.920 --> 01:41:14.840 Early dawn light. 1545 01:41:15.880 --> 01:41:19.560 Jack swooped down to join his unlikely friend Bart. He 1546 01:41:19.600 --> 01:41:23.520 called softly, finished your roots. Bart looked up with a 1547 01:41:23.560 --> 01:41:27.399 smile of relief. Just completed the last one. The frost 1548 01:41:27.439 --> 01:41:31.479 seed proved invaluable, though I think its power is finally exhausted. 1549 01:41:32.399 --> 01:41:35.680 He held up the small crystal, now clear and ordinary looking, 1550 01:41:36.159 --> 01:41:40.000 its magical properties apparently spent. You did well to think 1551 01:41:40.000 --> 01:41:44.119 of using it. Jack commented, I encountered Bereus's handiwork throughout 1552 01:41:44.159 --> 01:41:49.039 the northeast. He's channeling Shadow Court power, directly creating temporal 1553 01:41:49.039 --> 01:41:51.439 ice fields that would have been nearly impossible for the 1554 01:41:51.520 --> 01:41:57.399 rabbit teams to navigate. Bart's shaggy eyebrows rose Bereus, the 1555 01:41:57.439 --> 01:42:02.039 north Wind spirit the same, Jack confirmed grimly. It seems 1556 01:42:02.079 --> 01:42:05.640 the Shadow Court recruited him after I declined to continue 1557 01:42:05.680 --> 01:42:09.560 our association. He lacks my finesse, but with their backing, 1558 01:42:09.920 --> 01:42:13.760 his raw power is considerable. They began making their way 1559 01:42:13.800 --> 01:42:17.039 toward the nearest Warren entrance, which, according to Bart's map, 1560 01:42:17.119 --> 01:42:19.359 was hidden beneath an ancient oak in the center of 1561 01:42:19.399 --> 01:42:23.560 the park. Did you encounter any direct opposition? Jack asked, 1562 01:42:23.560 --> 01:42:27.560 as they walked. Bart shook his head only the barriers, 1563 01:42:27.760 --> 01:42:31.560 which the frost seed helped me circumvent. I Suspect Borius 1564 01:42:31.560 --> 01:42:35.720 focused his attention on the eastern territories. Lucky for the West. 1565 01:42:35.880 --> 01:42:39.960 Jack remarked, he's always been volatile, even for a winter spirit. 1566 01:42:40.600 --> 01:42:44.640 The shadow Court has clearly been stoking his resentments. They 1567 01:42:44.680 --> 01:42:47.920 reached the massive oak, its branches just beginning to bud 1568 01:42:47.920 --> 01:42:51.439 with spring growth. Bart located a knot in the trunk 1569 01:42:51.479 --> 01:42:54.000 that matched the symbol on his map and pressed it 1570 01:42:54.039 --> 01:42:58.000 in a specific pattern. The ground beneath them shimmered slightly, 1571 01:42:58.319 --> 01:43:01.760 and a passage appeared among the oaks roots. The tunnel 1572 01:43:01.800 --> 01:43:05.920 descended steeply before connecting with the main warren network. As 1573 01:43:05.960 --> 01:43:09.680 they traveled deeper, they began to encounter rabbit messengers racing 1574 01:43:09.720 --> 01:43:14.039 in both directions, all with expressions of barely contained excitement. 1575 01:43:15.000 --> 01:43:19.560 Something's happening. Bart observed one young messenger rabbit nearly collided 1576 01:43:19.560 --> 01:43:23.920 with them in her haste. Oh, mister frost, mister sasquatch, 1577 01:43:24.359 --> 01:43:27.880 You're needed in the central chamber immediately. Mister Edmond returned 1578 01:43:27.920 --> 01:43:31.439 an hour ago and called an emergency meeting. Jack and 1579 01:43:31.479 --> 01:43:35.840 Bart exchanged concerned glances before hurrying through the tunnels. The 1580 01:43:35.880 --> 01:43:39.439 warren was in a state of controlled chaos. Delivery teams 1581 01:43:39.479 --> 01:43:43.079 were returning from their routes, reporting to supervisors, who cataloged 1582 01:43:43.079 --> 01:43:48.560 successful deliveries and noting any remaining issues. Despite the earlier obstacles, 1583 01:43:48.720 --> 01:43:51.439 there was a sense of triumph in the air. The 1584 01:43:51.439 --> 01:43:55.239 central chamber was packed with rabbits when they arrived. Edmund 1585 01:43:55.239 --> 01:43:57.960 stood on a raised platform in the center, deep in 1586 01:43:58.039 --> 01:44:02.119 conversation with Thaddeus and several other senior rabbits when he 1587 01:44:02.119 --> 01:44:06.600 spotted Jack and Bart, relief washed over his features. Thank goodness, 1588 01:44:06.600 --> 01:44:08.880 you're both safe, he said, as they joined him on 1589 01:44:08.920 --> 01:44:13.079 the platform. I was beginning to worry. We completed our 1590 01:44:13.079 --> 01:44:20.359 deliveries successfully, Jack reported, though not without interference Bereus. Edmund nodded, yes, 1591 01:44:21.000 --> 01:44:24.560 I had an encounter with him myself. Quickly, he recounted 1592 01:44:24.600 --> 01:44:27.840 his confrontation with the North Wind spirit and the disturbing 1593 01:44:27.880 --> 01:44:30.760 revelation about the Shadow Court's knowledge of the first Egg. 1594 01:44:31.720 --> 01:44:35.640 This is troubling news, Bart rumbled. If they specifically targeted 1595 01:44:35.680 --> 01:44:39.000 Easter as a prelude to reaching the first Egg, then 1596 01:44:39.039 --> 01:44:42.479 today's interference was merely a test of our defenses and responses, 1597 01:44:42.560 --> 01:44:48.560 Jack finished, Edmond nodded grimly, precisely, but there's more. He 1598 01:44:48.640 --> 01:44:51.640 lowered his voice so only they could hear. The First 1599 01:44:51.680 --> 01:44:54.600 Egg communicated with me again while I was out, more 1600 01:44:54.640 --> 01:44:55.560 clearly this time. 1601 01:44:56.439 --> 01:44:57.159 What did it say? 1602 01:44:57.199 --> 01:45:03.319 Bart asked, not say exactly. It was more like impressions, images, 1603 01:45:04.960 --> 01:45:07.279 and stay tuned for more sasquatch ott to see. We'll 1604 01:45:07.319 --> 01:45:15.159 be right back. After these messages, Edmund's pink eyes grew 1605 01:45:15.199 --> 01:45:19.159 distant as he recalled the experience. I saw darkness gathering 1606 01:45:19.159 --> 01:45:23.039 at the edge of the magical realms, shadows taking form, 1607 01:45:23.199 --> 01:45:27.079 and a path, a very specific path through what appeared 1608 01:45:27.079 --> 01:45:31.239 to be a frozen wasteland the outer reaches. Jack breathed, 1609 01:45:31.760 --> 01:45:34.479 the border lands between our world and the Shadow Realm. 1610 01:45:35.039 --> 01:45:39.279 That's where the Court was banished centuries ago. Yes, Edmund confirmed, 1611 01:45:39.840 --> 01:45:42.840 and the barriers between the realms are thinning. The First 1612 01:45:42.880 --> 01:45:45.199 Egg showed me that the Shadow Court is attempting to 1613 01:45:45.199 --> 01:45:48.960 create a bridge, using corrupted renewal magic to punch through 1614 01:45:48.960 --> 01:45:52.600 their banishment, which explains why they targeted the Egg of 1615 01:45:52.600 --> 01:45:56.439 Renewal first. Bart reasoned a practice run learning how to 1616 01:45:56.439 --> 01:46:00.119 manipulate renewal magic before attempting the same with the first egg. 1617 01:46:01.159 --> 01:46:04.399 We stopped them this time, Jack said, but they'll try again, 1618 01:46:05.119 --> 01:46:09.720 bereus as much as admitted it. Edmund nodded soberly. Which 1619 01:46:09.800 --> 01:46:13.239 is why, once Easter operations are complete, we need to 1620 01:46:13.319 --> 01:46:16.119 undertake a new mission. We must journey to the outer 1621 01:46:16.239 --> 01:46:19.399 reaches ourselves and strengthen the barriers before the Shadow Court 1622 01:46:19.439 --> 01:46:23.079 breaks through travel to the edge of the shadow realm. 1623 01:46:23.359 --> 01:46:27.800 Jack looked unsettled. That's no small undertaking, Edmund. I know, 1624 01:46:27.920 --> 01:46:30.920 the rabbit, admitted, but the first egg was quite clear. 1625 01:46:31.479 --> 01:46:32.039 The three of. 1626 01:46:32.039 --> 01:46:37.159 Us, Winter, wilderness, and renewal must go together. Our combined 1627 01:46:37.199 --> 01:46:40.600 powers represent the balance that the Shadow Court seeks to destroy. 1628 01:46:41.560 --> 01:46:45.279 Before they could discuss further, Thaddeus approached with a clipboard, 1629 01:46:45.720 --> 01:46:50.199 mister Edmund, final delivery reports are coming in. Despite the disruptions, 1630 01:46:50.399 --> 01:46:54.960 we achieved ninety eight point seven percent completion across all territories. 1631 01:46:55.560 --> 01:46:58.239 The remaining one point three percent are in areas so 1632 01:46:58.359 --> 01:47:02.079 heavily affected by temporal Eye that even our emergency teams 1633 01:47:02.079 --> 01:47:07.760 couldn't gain access. Edmund's ears perked up. That's remarkable, far 1634 01:47:07.840 --> 01:47:12.319 better than I hoped. Indeed, Thaddeus agreed, adjusting his spectacles. 1635 01:47:12.840 --> 01:47:16.760 The combination of our contingency protocols and your He glanced 1636 01:47:16.760 --> 01:47:20.119 at Jack and Bart, still somewhat uncomfortable with their presence. 1637 01:47:20.880 --> 01:47:26.840 Unconventional assistance proved quite effective. Excellent news, Thaddeus, please convey 1638 01:47:26.880 --> 01:47:30.640 my heartfelt thanks to all teams. They performed admirably under 1639 01:47:30.640 --> 01:47:35.319 difficult circumstances. As Thatius hopped away, Edmund turned back to 1640 01:47:35.359 --> 01:47:39.960 his companions. Easter has been saved the renewal magic flows, 1641 01:47:40.520 --> 01:47:44.039 but our larger challenge remains. When do we leave for 1642 01:47:44.079 --> 01:47:48.640 the outer reaches? Bart asked tomorrow? Edmund decided the Warren 1643 01:47:48.720 --> 01:47:52.239 will be occupied with post easter operations today, and we 1644 01:47:52.319 --> 01:47:55.239 all need rest after last night's work. But we shouldn't 1645 01:47:55.279 --> 01:47:58.119 delay longer than that. The Shadow Court won't wait to 1646 01:47:58.159 --> 01:48:02.239 make their next move. Jack nodded in agreement. I'll prepare 1647 01:48:02.279 --> 01:48:06.279 winter provisions. The outer reaches are perpetually frozen, even I 1648 01:48:06.399 --> 01:48:10.600 find them challenging, and I'll gather wilderness supplies. Bart offered 1649 01:48:11.199 --> 01:48:13.680 some of my herbal remedies might prove useful in such 1650 01:48:13.680 --> 01:48:17.960 a harsh environment. Good Edmund said, I'll consult the ancient 1651 01:48:18.039 --> 01:48:21.680 records for any information about the Shadow Realm boundaries. We'll 1652 01:48:21.720 --> 01:48:25.479 meet back here tomorrow at dawn, as the Warren continued 1653 01:48:25.479 --> 01:48:28.960 its post Easter activities around them, the three friends stood 1654 01:48:28.960 --> 01:48:32.920 in a small circle of quiet determination. They had succeeded 1655 01:48:33.000 --> 01:48:36.960 in saving Easter, but a greater threat loomed. The Shadow 1656 01:48:37.000 --> 01:48:40.039 Court's attempt to disrupt the holiday had been thwarted, but 1657 01:48:40.159 --> 01:48:44.720 their larger ambitions remained unchecked. Tomorrow would bring a new journey, 1658 01:48:45.279 --> 01:48:48.840 one more dangerous than any they had undertaken before, but 1659 01:48:48.920 --> 01:48:52.560 they would face it together, an unlikely trio united by 1660 01:48:52.640 --> 01:48:58.800 purpose and growing friendship. Winter, wilderness, and renewal, three aspects 1661 01:48:58.840 --> 01:49:02.239 of the natural world now aligned against the unnatural darkness 1662 01:49:02.279 --> 01:49:05.760 that threatened them all. The journey to the outer Reaches 1663 01:49:05.800 --> 01:49:09.880 began in unexpected comfort. Edmund had arranged for a rabbit 1664 01:49:09.960 --> 01:49:14.880 transport vessel, essentially a magically enhanced tunnel boring machine that 1665 01:49:14.920 --> 01:49:18.520 could create temporary passages through the Earth at remarkable speed. 1666 01:49:19.399 --> 01:49:23.239 The interior was surprisingly spacious, with padded seats that even 1667 01:49:23.239 --> 01:49:27.520 accommodated Bart's large frame. We can tunnel directly for about 1668 01:49:27.560 --> 01:49:30.560 three quarters of the journey, Edmund explained as they departed 1669 01:49:30.560 --> 01:49:33.760 the Warren. After that we'll need to surface and travel 1670 01:49:33.800 --> 01:49:34.479 the rest of the way. 1671 01:49:34.560 --> 01:49:35.000 On foot. 1672 01:49:35.600 --> 01:49:40.039 The outer reaches resist magical transportation method. Jack examined the 1673 01:49:40.079 --> 01:49:43.159 control panel with interest. I've heard of these vessels, but 1674 01:49:43.319 --> 01:49:47.079 never seen one. How fast can it travel? About two 1675 01:49:47.159 --> 01:49:50.279 hundred miles per hour through standard earth? Edmund said, proudly. 1676 01:49:51.000 --> 01:49:54.640 Slower through rock, faster through loose soil. We should reach 1677 01:49:54.720 --> 01:49:58.119 the entry point by midday. Bart, who was examining a 1678 01:49:58.239 --> 01:50:02.079 detailed map of their route, looked up with concern. This 1679 01:50:02.239 --> 01:50:05.239 takes us directly through the territory of the burrowing trolls. 1680 01:50:05.800 --> 01:50:12.760 Are they still territorial? Edmund's ears twitched nervously. Unfortunately, Yes, 1681 01:50:13.680 --> 01:50:17.239 but our vessel is designed to operate quietly with luck, 1682 01:50:17.640 --> 01:50:22.000 will pass beneath their kingdom without attracting notice and without luck. 1683 01:50:22.159 --> 01:50:23.960 Jack asked, well. 1684 01:50:24.960 --> 01:50:29.640 Edmund hesitated, Let's just say this vessel also has defensive capabilities. 1685 01:50:30.920 --> 01:50:34.199 The first few hours of their journey passed smoothly. The 1686 01:50:34.319 --> 01:50:38.399 vessel's viewing screens showed their progress through various geological layers, 1687 01:50:39.000 --> 01:50:43.039 sometimes passing through caverns and underground waterways so beautiful they 1688 01:50:43.159 --> 01:50:45.680 left even Bart, who had seen much of the natural 1689 01:50:45.800 --> 01:50:49.319 world in awe. They used the time to discuss what 1690 01:50:49.399 --> 01:50:52.840 they knew about the Shadow Court and the Outer Reaches. Jack, 1691 01:50:53.159 --> 01:50:56.279 who had ventured closer to that border than most, shared 1692 01:50:56.319 --> 01:50:59.880 his limited knowledge. The Outer Reaches aren't exactly part of 1693 01:51:00.119 --> 01:51:02.520 our world, but they're not fully part of the Shadow 1694 01:51:02.600 --> 01:51:07.479 Realm either. They're a kind of buffer zone, perpetually frozen, 1695 01:51:07.920 --> 01:51:11.560 constantly shifting, and governed by rules that don't quite match 1696 01:51:11.720 --> 01:51:15.680 either realm. The ancient texts described them as the place 1697 01:51:15.760 --> 01:51:21.439 between being and unbeing, Edmond added, confusing but poetic. And 1698 01:51:21.560 --> 01:51:24.439 the Shadow Court can't cross fully into our world because 1699 01:51:24.479 --> 01:51:28.439 of the banishment spell. Bart summarized, but they can influence it, 1700 01:51:28.960 --> 01:51:34.399 especially through willing agents like Bereus exactly. Edmund confirmed. The 1701 01:51:34.479 --> 01:51:36.239 banishment was powerful. 1702 01:51:36.119 --> 01:51:40.319 But not absolute. It left cracks, so to speak. 1703 01:51:40.760 --> 01:51:43.399 Small ways for the Shadow Court to extend their influence 1704 01:51:43.520 --> 01:51:47.479 under certain conditions. And now they're trying to widen those cracks, 1705 01:51:47.600 --> 01:51:52.159 Jack said, grimly, using corrupted Renewal magic to erode the barriers. 1706 01:51:53.319 --> 01:51:55.800 Their discussion was interrupted by a sudden alarm from the 1707 01:51:55.880 --> 01:51:59.960 control panel. Red lights flashed and the vessel slowed. Dramat 1708 01:52:01.279 --> 01:52:05.319 what's happening, Bart asked, bracing himself against the sudden deceleration. 1709 01:52:06.359 --> 01:52:11.359 Edmund frantically manipulated the controls troll detection grid. They've sensed 1710 01:52:11.399 --> 01:52:15.239 our passage. The vessel shuddered as something massive struck it 1711 01:52:15.319 --> 01:52:19.680 from above. On the viewing screens, enormous clawl like appendages 1712 01:52:19.720 --> 01:52:23.720 appeared scraping against their hull. They're trying to breach the 1713 01:52:23.800 --> 01:52:29.279 outer shell, Edmund explained, tersely activating defensive measures. He pulled 1714 01:52:29.319 --> 01:52:31.960 a lever, and bright bursts of energy emanated from the 1715 01:52:32.039 --> 01:52:36.560 vessel's exterior. The screen showed the energy repelling the massive claws, 1716 01:52:36.960 --> 01:52:41.199 which retreated momentarily before attacking from a different angle. The 1717 01:52:41.279 --> 01:52:45.399 burrowing trolls are persistent. Jack noted, frost forming around his 1718 01:52:45.520 --> 01:52:49.239 fingers as he prepared to assist if needed, and surprisingly 1719 01:52:49.319 --> 01:52:54.760 coordinated for creatures with such limited intelligence. They've evolved, Edmund corrected, 1720 01:52:55.159 --> 01:52:59.199 continuing to maneuver the controls. The underground kingdoms have become 1721 01:52:59.279 --> 01:53:04.079 more organized in recent decades, less random aggression, more strategic 1722 01:53:04.239 --> 01:53:08.600 territory defense. Another impact rocked the vessel harder. 1723 01:53:08.680 --> 01:53:09.119 This time. 1724 01:53:09.920 --> 01:53:14.479 Warning lights flashed across the control panel. Hull integrity compromised 1725 01:53:14.520 --> 01:53:18.640 in section three. A calm mechanical voice announced breach imminent. 1726 01:53:19.520 --> 01:53:20.880 We need to move, Edmund. 1727 01:53:20.640 --> 01:53:25.960 Decided, Bart Jack prepare for emergency surface protocol, grab the 1728 01:53:26.039 --> 01:53:30.640 supply packs. They snatched the pre prepared packs from storage compartments. 1729 01:53:30.840 --> 01:53:34.039 As Edmond entered a complex sequence into the control panel, 1730 01:53:34.800 --> 01:53:39.720 the vessel changed direction, abruptly, angling sharply upward, surfacing at 1731 01:53:39.800 --> 01:53:43.520 maximum speed. Edmond explained, it'll be rough, but we need 1732 01:53:43.600 --> 01:53:46.119 to get above ground before they tear through the hull completely. 1733 01:53:47.079 --> 01:53:51.079 The vessel accelerated dramatically, vibrating with the strain of pushing 1734 01:53:51.119 --> 01:53:55.159 through layers of earth at unsafe speeds. The trolls continued 1735 01:53:55.199 --> 01:53:58.159 their pursuit, but the sudden change in direction had bought 1736 01:53:58.199 --> 01:54:02.319 them a temporary advantage. Brace for impact, Edmond shouted. As 1737 01:54:02.359 --> 01:54:06.159 the vessel's nose cone approached the surface, the craft erupted 1738 01:54:06.199 --> 01:54:09.560 from the ground with explosive force, soaring briefly into the 1739 01:54:09.640 --> 01:54:12.600 air before crashing back to Earth and skidding several hundred 1740 01:54:12.640 --> 01:54:17.279 feet inside. The three friends were tossed about despite their restraints. 1741 01:54:17.920 --> 01:54:21.239 When the vessel finally came to rest, warning systems blared 1742 01:54:21.279 --> 01:54:25.920 from every console. Everyone all right, Edmond asked, extracting himself 1743 01:54:25.920 --> 01:54:30.439 from his harness intact, Bart confirmed, helping Jack up from 1744 01:54:30.479 --> 01:54:34.319 where he'd been thrown where are we, Jack asked, peering 1745 01:54:34.399 --> 01:54:38.479 through a cracked viewing port. Based on our trajectory, somewhere 1746 01:54:38.520 --> 01:54:42.119 in the Northern Territories, Edmond estimated, still about one hundred 1747 01:54:42.159 --> 01:54:45.920 miles from the Outer Reaches boundary. A new alarm sounded, 1748 01:54:46.359 --> 01:54:50.840 this one more urgent than the others. Multiple subterranean threats approaching. 1749 01:54:50.920 --> 01:54:55.239 The mechanical voice informed them estimated breach time two minutes. 1750 01:54:56.119 --> 01:54:59.399 They followed us Bart observed, and we can't continue in 1751 01:54:59.439 --> 01:55:04.479 the vessel, Edmond added, examining the damage controls, navigation systems 1752 01:55:04.479 --> 01:55:07.600 are offline and the hull won't withstand another attack. 1753 01:55:08.680 --> 01:55:09.600 Then we go on foot. 1754 01:55:09.720 --> 01:55:13.159 Jack decided, we have our supplies and I can create 1755 01:55:13.239 --> 01:55:17.199 winter pathways to speed our journey. They gathered their packs 1756 01:55:17.239 --> 01:55:21.479 and emergency equipment. Then Edmund activated the vessel's emergency exit. 1757 01:55:22.359 --> 01:55:25.840 The door hissed open, revealing a stark landscape of wind 1758 01:55:25.920 --> 01:55:30.720 swept tundra. The vegetation was sparse, mostly lichens and low, 1759 01:55:30.800 --> 01:55:35.000 hardy shrubs. In the distance, snow capped mountains rose against 1760 01:55:35.039 --> 01:55:38.960 a gray sky. Move quickly, Edmond urged as they exited. 1761 01:55:39.560 --> 01:55:42.600 The trolls will emerge soon, and they can move surprisingly 1762 01:55:42.720 --> 01:55:46.119 fast on the surface. When motivated. No sooner had they 1763 01:55:46.159 --> 01:55:48.920 put one hundred yards between themselves and the vessel than 1764 01:55:48.960 --> 01:55:53.159 the ground around it erupted. Massive creatures burst from the earth, 1765 01:55:53.640 --> 01:55:58.000 vaguely humanoid but with elongated limbs, rock like skin, and 1766 01:55:58.239 --> 01:56:02.640 enormous clawed hands, clearly of digging. Their eyes were small, 1767 01:56:02.720 --> 01:56:07.119 but gleamed with malevolent intelligence. Don't look back, Edmond advised, 1768 01:56:07.119 --> 01:56:10.319 as they broke into a run. Their vision is movement based. 1769 01:56:11.279 --> 01:56:13.960 Jack took to the air, riding the wind just above 1770 01:56:14.000 --> 01:56:17.560 his companions. I can see a forest about two miles ahead. 1771 01:56:18.119 --> 01:56:21.720 We might lose them there. They ran across the open tundra, 1772 01:56:22.119 --> 01:56:26.000 the trolls in close pursuit. Despite their bulk, the creatures 1773 01:56:26.079 --> 01:56:30.000 moved with surprising speed, their long limbs covering ground and 1774 01:56:30.079 --> 01:56:34.960 loping strides. Jack periodically created ice slicks behind them, which 1775 01:56:35.039 --> 01:56:38.920 slowed their pursuers somewhat but didn't stop them entirely. As 1776 01:56:38.960 --> 01:56:41.119 they neared the tree line, Bart, who had been carrying 1777 01:56:41.279 --> 01:56:44.199 Edmund to increase their pace, suddenly stopped and set the 1778 01:56:44.319 --> 01:56:48.159 rabbit down. Keep going, he rumbled, I'll hold them off. 1779 01:56:49.039 --> 01:56:49.960 What no? 1780 01:56:51.000 --> 01:56:55.000 Edmund protested. We stay together. We need to reach the 1781 01:56:55.079 --> 01:56:58.760 outer reaches. Bart said, firmly, the mission comes first, and 1782 01:56:58.880 --> 01:57:02.239 I'm best suited for this. Before they could argue further, 1783 01:57:02.680 --> 01:57:04.640 Bart turned to face the approaching trolls. 1784 01:57:05.399 --> 01:57:06.199 From deep within his. 1785 01:57:06.319 --> 01:57:09.159 Chest came a sound Edmund and Jack had never heard before, 1786 01:57:09.880 --> 01:57:12.760 a roar so primal and powerful that it seemed to 1787 01:57:12.840 --> 01:57:17.399 shake the very ground. The trolls, advancing confidently until that 1788 01:57:17.560 --> 01:57:21.920 moment faltered. Bart's massive form seemed to grow even larger 1789 01:57:21.920 --> 01:57:26.039 as he assumed a threatening posture, arms spread wide, hair bristling. 1790 01:57:26.720 --> 01:57:30.159 He roared again, this time advancing toward the trolls rather 1791 01:57:30.279 --> 01:57:36.119 than away. The lead troll hesitated, clearly reassessing burrowing. Trolls 1792 01:57:36.159 --> 01:57:39.119 were accustomed to being the most physically imposing presence in 1793 01:57:39.239 --> 01:57:43.920 any encounter, but facing an enraged Sasquatch, a creature of 1794 01:57:44.039 --> 01:57:48.640 legend even among magical beings, gave them pause. Jack seized 1795 01:57:48.680 --> 01:57:52.239 the moment of uncertainty. Summoning his winter powers, he created 1796 01:57:52.279 --> 01:57:55.079 a massive wall of ice between Bart and the trolls, 1797 01:57:55.960 --> 01:57:59.560 not the corrupted temporal ice that Breus wielded, but pure 1798 01:57:59.680 --> 01:58:04.199 natural winter ice, solid but transient part of the natural cycle. 1799 01:58:05.079 --> 01:58:08.479 Now run, Jack shouted, The three raced for the forest. 1800 01:58:08.760 --> 01:58:11.920 The sounds of trolls attacking the ice wall fading behind them. 1801 01:58:12.560 --> 01:58:14.760 They didn't slow until they were deep among the trees, 1802 01:58:15.399 --> 01:58:19.439 an ancient forest of massive conifers whose branches intertwined overhead, 1803 01:58:19.840 --> 01:58:24.880 creating a cathedral like canopy that Edmund panted was too close. 1804 01:58:25.800 --> 01:58:28.479 The ice won't hold them long, Jack cautioned, but it 1805 01:58:28.560 --> 01:58:31.920 might convince them we're not worth the trouble. Bart nodded, 1806 01:58:32.279 --> 01:58:36.640 his breathing, returning to normal. Trolls are essentially bullies. They 1807 01:58:36.720 --> 01:58:41.279 prefer easy targets that roar. Edmund said, looking at Bart 1808 01:58:41.399 --> 01:58:46.119 with newfound appreciation. I've never heard anything like it. Bart looked, 1809 01:58:46.119 --> 01:58:51.039 slightly embarrassed. An old sasquatch defense technique we rarely use. 1810 01:58:51.119 --> 01:58:54.880 It draws too much attention, but it's effective against predators. 1811 01:58:55.560 --> 01:59:00.399 Vibrates at a frequency that triggers primitive fear responses. Certainly 1812 01:59:00.479 --> 01:59:03.680 worked on the trolls. Jack observed they took a moment 1813 01:59:03.760 --> 01:59:07.399 to rest and assess their surroundings. The forest, while not 1814 01:59:07.560 --> 01:59:10.159 magical in the same way as whisper would, had an 1815 01:59:10.199 --> 01:59:14.920 ancient primal energy. The trees were enormous, their trunks wider 1816 01:59:15.000 --> 01:59:18.039 than Bart was tall, and the forest floor was carpeted 1817 01:59:18.079 --> 01:59:22.199 with thick moss that muffled their footsteps. Where exactly are we, 1818 01:59:22.359 --> 01:59:26.600 Bart asked. As they consulted their map, Edmund oriented himself 1819 01:59:26.760 --> 01:59:30.359 using a small compass like device that responded to magical 1820 01:59:30.560 --> 01:59:35.039 energies rather than magnetic North the old growth, he said, finally, 1821 01:59:35.600 --> 01:59:39.119 one of the primeval forests that predates most magical settlements. 1822 01:59:39.720 --> 01:59:43.600 It stretches for about forty miles, and beyond it. He 1823 01:59:43.680 --> 01:59:47.039 traced a line on the map the frost plains and 1824 01:59:47.159 --> 01:59:50.720 then the boundary of the outer reaches. The forest provides 1825 01:59:50.760 --> 01:59:53.680 good cover. Jack noted, but once we reached the frost 1826 01:59:53.760 --> 01:59:57.359 plains will be exposed again. We should move while we 1827 01:59:57.439 --> 02:00:00.800 have daylight, Edmund decided, returning the ma magical compass to 1828 02:00:00.920 --> 02:00:05.159 his pack. The old growth becomes less friendly after dark. 1829 02:00:06.239 --> 02:00:09.159 They set off through the forest, establishing a steady pace 1830 02:00:09.239 --> 02:00:13.119 that they could maintain for hours. Edmund led, using his 1831 02:00:13.239 --> 02:00:18.000 magical compass to navigate the trackless wilderness. Jack alternated between 1832 02:00:18.119 --> 02:00:21.760 walking with them and scouting ahead from above. Bart brought 1833 02:00:21.840 --> 02:00:24.760 up the rear his wilderness senses, alert for any sign 1834 02:00:24.800 --> 02:00:29.399 of pursuit. As they traveled, the forest around them gradually changed. 1835 02:00:30.159 --> 02:00:34.359 The trees massive from the beginning grew even larger. The 1836 02:00:34.520 --> 02:00:38.600 underbrush thinned, replaced by strange fungi that glowed with faint 1837 02:00:38.680 --> 02:00:43.119 bioluminescence even in daylight. The air became thicker, filled with 1838 02:00:43.199 --> 02:00:46.680 the sense of growth and decay in equal measure. We're 1839 02:00:46.800 --> 02:00:49.760 entering the heart of the old growth, Edmund explained quietly. 1840 02:00:50.439 --> 02:00:52.560 It's one of the places where the boundary between the 1841 02:00:52.720 --> 02:00:57.239 ordinary world and the magical world is particularly thin. I 1842 02:00:57.319 --> 02:01:00.720 can feel it, Bart said, his hair standing slowightly on end. 1843 02:01:01.560 --> 02:01:05.960 The air is different, charged somehow. Jack nodded in agreement. 1844 02:01:06.680 --> 02:01:12.399 The natural energies are stronger here, less diluted. They continued 1845 02:01:12.439 --> 02:01:16.119 in silence, each experiencing the ancient forest in their own way. 1846 02:01:17.039 --> 02:01:19.199 For Bart, it was like coming home to a place 1847 02:01:19.239 --> 02:01:22.720 he'd never been before, the wilderness in its purest form, 1848 02:01:23.239 --> 02:01:27.359 untouched by human influence. For Jack, it was a reminder 1849 02:01:27.399 --> 02:01:29.239 of the world as it had been when he first 1850 02:01:29.319 --> 02:01:33.399 became a winter spirit, full of raw natural power. And 1851 02:01:33.520 --> 02:01:36.880 for Edmund it was a connection to the oldest rabbit legends, 1852 02:01:37.439 --> 02:01:40.720 tales of the time before the Warrant, when his ancestors 1853 02:01:40.760 --> 02:01:43.760 had been part of the primal forest. As the day 1854 02:01:43.800 --> 02:01:46.680 wore on, they made good progress through the old growth. 1855 02:01:47.479 --> 02:01:51.039 The glowing fungui became brighter as the forest canopy grew denser, 1856 02:01:51.520 --> 02:01:55.640 reducing the natural light. By late afternoon, the fungui provided 1857 02:01:55.720 --> 02:01:59.039 most of their illumination, casting the forest in an eerie 1858 02:01:59.119 --> 02:02:02.199 blue green globe. We should find a place to make 1859 02:02:02.279 --> 02:02:05.399 camp soon, Edmund suggested. We don't want to be traveling 1860 02:02:05.479 --> 02:02:09.359 through here in full darkness. Jack, who had been scouting ahead, 1861 02:02:09.520 --> 02:02:12.640 returned with the news there's a clearing about half a 1862 02:02:12.720 --> 02:02:15.359 mile forward. Looks like it might have been used as 1863 02:02:15.399 --> 02:02:18.239 a camp site before. There's the remains of an old 1864 02:02:18.319 --> 02:02:18.800 fire pit. 1865 02:02:19.680 --> 02:02:19.920 Good. 1866 02:02:20.279 --> 02:02:23.960 Edmund nodded. A used site is safer. The forest is 1867 02:02:24.039 --> 02:02:27.319 less likely to object to our presence there. The forest 1868 02:02:27.439 --> 02:02:31.720 can object, Bart asked, raising a shaggy eyebrow. The old 1869 02:02:31.800 --> 02:02:36.640 growth has a consciousness of sorts, Edmund explained, not like ours, 1870 02:02:37.159 --> 02:02:41.039 more like a collective awareness. It generally ignores travelers who 1871 02:02:41.079 --> 02:02:44.000 respect it, but it can become hostile to those it 1872 02:02:44.119 --> 02:02:50.920 perceives as threats. Hostile how Jack inquired shifting pathways, animated roots, 1873 02:02:51.239 --> 02:02:56.079 hallucinogenic spores. Edmund listed, nothing immediately deadly, but enough to 1874 02:02:56.199 --> 02:03:00.640 ensure trespassers never find their way out again. Each the clearing, 1875 02:03:00.840 --> 02:03:03.680 just as the last natural light was fading from the forest. 1876 02:03:04.520 --> 02:03:07.199 It was a perfect circle, about thirty feet in diameter, 1877 02:03:07.720 --> 02:03:10.880 as if the massive trees had deliberately grown around the space. 1878 02:03:11.680 --> 02:03:14.319 At the center was a fire pit lined with stones, 1879 02:03:14.359 --> 02:03:15.439 worn smooth. 1880 02:03:15.199 --> 02:03:16.399 By age and use. 1881 02:03:17.439 --> 02:03:20.960 This is old, Bart observed, examining the pit, very old. 1882 02:03:21.439 --> 02:03:25.159 These stones have been used for countless fires. A traditional 1883 02:03:25.239 --> 02:03:29.479 resting place, Edmund agreed travelers have been stopping here for centuries. 1884 02:03:30.039 --> 02:03:34.039 The forest recognizes it as neutral ground. They set up 1885 02:03:34.079 --> 02:03:39.800 camp efficiently, each falling into natural rolls. Bart gathered appropriate firewood, 1886 02:03:40.199 --> 02:03:44.760 carefully selecting fallen branches rather than breaking anything living. Jack 1887 02:03:44.840 --> 02:03:48.439 created a small, controlled cold spot for their perishable supplies. 1888 02:03:49.399 --> 02:03:52.359 Edmund unpacked their cooking equipment and prepared a simple but 1889 02:03:52.560 --> 02:03:56.199 nourishing stew. As they sat around the fire after their meal, 1890 02:03:56.600 --> 02:04:00.119 the forest around them came alive with night sounds, the 1891 02:04:00.159 --> 02:04:04.319 familiar crickets and frogs of ordinary woods, but stranger noises, 1892 02:04:04.920 --> 02:04:08.359 melodic humming from the fung guy, whispered rustling that seemed 1893 02:04:08.399 --> 02:04:13.039 almost like conversation between the trees, and occasionally distant calls 1894 02:04:13.119 --> 02:04:17.000 that resembled no animal any of them could identify. Will 1895 02:04:17.039 --> 02:04:20.520 we reach the frost plains tomorrow? Bard asked, adding another 1896 02:04:20.640 --> 02:04:25.479 log to the fire. Edmund consulted their map by firelight. Yes, 1897 02:04:25.960 --> 02:04:28.840 if we maintain our pace, we should emerge from the 1898 02:04:28.920 --> 02:04:32.560 old growth by midday, cross the plains by evening, and 1899 02:04:32.680 --> 02:04:35.760 reach the boundary of the outer reaches by nightfall tomorrow. 1900 02:04:36.800 --> 02:04:39.560 And then Jack asked the question they'd all been considering. 1901 02:04:40.399 --> 02:04:44.039 Edmund's expression grew serious. Then we find where the boundary 1902 02:04:44.119 --> 02:04:48.560 is weakening and strengthen it using our combined powers. You 1903 02:04:48.640 --> 02:04:52.239 make it sound simple. Jack observed, the concept is simple. 1904 02:04:52.479 --> 02:04:57.319 Edmund corrected the execution. Well, the first egg didn't share 1905 02:04:57.359 --> 02:05:00.439 precise instructions, but it did show me that the three 1906 02:05:00.520 --> 02:05:05.159 of us, representing winter, wilderness, and renewal, create a powerful 1907 02:05:05.239 --> 02:05:09.119 balance when working together, a balance that directly opposes the 1908 02:05:09.199 --> 02:05:14.479 Shadow Court's influence. And stay tuned for more sasquatch otta see, 1909 02:05:14.479 --> 02:05:22.319 we'll be right back after these messages. Balance against chaos. 1910 02:05:22.439 --> 02:05:27.560 Bart mused, nature's order against unnatural distortion exactly. 1911 02:05:28.039 --> 02:05:28.640 Edmund nodded. 1912 02:05:29.520 --> 02:05:34.439 Jack stared into the flames, uncharacteristically quiet. Finally, he spoke, 1913 02:05:35.279 --> 02:05:38.359 I allowed myself to be influenced by them once the 1914 02:05:38.439 --> 02:05:43.279 Shadow Court, I mean, they're persuasive. They find the doubts 1915 02:05:43.319 --> 02:05:46.920 you harbor, the resentments you've nursed, and they amplify them 1916 02:05:47.000 --> 02:05:50.760 until they drown out everything else you broke free, Bart 1917 02:05:50.840 --> 02:05:54.920 reminded him, with your help, Jack acknowledged, But Marius is 1918 02:05:54.960 --> 02:05:58.600 still under their sway, and he was never as flexible 1919 02:05:58.600 --> 02:06:02.239 as I am. He's always seen winter as power, not beauty. 1920 02:06:03.359 --> 02:06:06.640 Do you think we'll face him again, Edmond asked. Jack 1921 02:06:06.720 --> 02:06:10.560 nodded grimly. Almost certainly. The Shadow Court will have him 1922 02:06:10.560 --> 02:06:14.199 guarding the boundary, especially the weak points they're trying to exploit. 1923 02:06:15.439 --> 02:06:20.199 The conversation lapsed into thoughtful silence. Each contemplated the challenges 1924 02:06:20.239 --> 02:06:23.600 that lay ahead and the unlikely partnership that had brought 1925 02:06:23.640 --> 02:06:27.800 them to this moment. Three beings from different magical traditions 1926 02:06:28.119 --> 02:06:31.840 united by a common purpose. As the fire burned down 1927 02:06:31.880 --> 02:06:34.880 to embers, they established a watch rotation for the night. 1928 02:06:35.760 --> 02:06:39.000 The old growth might recognize their clearing as neutral ground, 1929 02:06:39.439 --> 02:06:43.039 but other creatures might not be so respectful. Bart took 1930 02:06:43.079 --> 02:06:46.279 the first watch, his keen senses perfectly attuned to the 1931 02:06:46.359 --> 02:06:51.920 forest environment. While Jack and Edmund slept, Bart sat motionless, listening, 1932 02:06:51.960 --> 02:06:55.760 to the ancient woodland. Despite the upcoming challenges, he felt 1933 02:06:55.800 --> 02:07:00.119 a profound sense of rightness. After centuries of isolation, he 1934 02:07:00.159 --> 02:07:02.600 had found a purpose that mattered, and allies he was 1935 02:07:02.680 --> 02:07:06.399 proud to call friends. Whatever the Shadow Court might throw 1936 02:07:06.479 --> 02:07:10.000 at them, they would face it together. The night deepened 1937 02:07:10.039 --> 02:07:14.359 around them, the bioluminescent fungui glowing like blue stars, fallen 1938 02:07:14.439 --> 02:07:18.640 to earth. In this primeval place, the boundaries between ordinary 1939 02:07:18.720 --> 02:07:22.399 and magical seemed as thin as gossamer. Tomorrow would bring 1940 02:07:22.479 --> 02:07:24.960 them to the very edge of their world, to the 1941 02:07:25.000 --> 02:07:29.279 border of shadow itself, But for now, in this ancient clearing, 1942 02:07:29.680 --> 02:07:34.520 they rested three guardians, preparing for their greatest challenge. Dawn 1943 02:07:34.600 --> 02:07:37.800 in the old growth was subtle, a gradual lightning of 1944 02:07:37.880 --> 02:07:41.039 the gloom, rather than the dramatic sunrise of open spaces. 1945 02:07:41.960 --> 02:07:45.600 The bioluminescent fung guy dimmed as natural light filtered through 1946 02:07:45.600 --> 02:07:48.760 the dense canopy, and the nocturnal whispers of the forest 1947 02:07:49.159 --> 02:07:52.800 gave way to daytime rustlings. Bart who had taken the 1948 02:07:52.880 --> 02:07:55.520 final watch, woke his companions as soon as there was 1949 02:07:55.520 --> 02:07:59.199 sufficient light to travel safely. They ate a quick breakfast 1950 02:07:59.239 --> 02:08:02.359 of journey bread and dried fruit from their supplies, then 1951 02:08:02.439 --> 02:08:06.720 broke camp with practiced efficiency. The forest feels different this morning, 1952 02:08:06.840 --> 02:08:11.880 Jack observed as they set off, more attentive. Edmond nodded 1953 02:08:11.920 --> 02:08:15.600 in agreement. It's aware of us now, not hostile, but 1954 02:08:15.760 --> 02:08:16.680 definitely watching. 1955 02:08:17.800 --> 02:08:18.600 Is that good or bad? 1956 02:08:18.720 --> 02:08:21.600 Bart asked, ducking beneath a low hanging branch. 1957 02:08:22.560 --> 02:08:22.840 Neither. 1958 02:08:23.000 --> 02:08:27.279 Edmund replied, it's simply observing. The old growth rarely takes 1959 02:08:27.359 --> 02:08:30.800 sides in the affairs of magical beings. It existed before 1960 02:08:30.880 --> 02:08:34.640 most of us and will likely outlast us all. They 1961 02:08:34.720 --> 02:08:37.720 traveled steadily through the morning, the character of the forest 1962 02:08:37.800 --> 02:08:42.319 gradually changing around them. The massive, ancient trees began to thin, 1963 02:08:43.000 --> 02:08:47.560 giving way to younger growth. The mysterious fungi became less prevalent, 1964 02:08:47.680 --> 02:08:51.159 and the air lost some of its charged quality. We're 1965 02:08:51.199 --> 02:08:54.520 approaching the edge, Edmund announced, after checking his magical compass. 1966 02:08:55.119 --> 02:08:57.880 The boundary between the old growth and the frost. Planes 1967 02:08:58.119 --> 02:09:01.640 should be just ahead. As if on cue, They emerged 1968 02:09:01.680 --> 02:09:05.479 from the trees into blinding brightness. Before them stretched a 1969 02:09:05.560 --> 02:09:10.039 vast expanse of white the frost plains, a seemingly endless 1970 02:09:10.079 --> 02:09:12.880 field of snow and ice that extended to the horizon. 1971 02:09:13.840 --> 02:09:17.760 The transition was shockingly abrupt, from ancient forest to frozen 1972 02:09:17.800 --> 02:09:22.479 wasteland in a single step. Wow, Bart breathed, shielding his 1973 02:09:22.600 --> 02:09:25.560 eyes from the glare. It's like crossing from one world 1974 02:09:25.640 --> 02:09:29.439 into another. In a way we are, Edmund explained. The 1975 02:09:29.520 --> 02:09:32.560 frost plains mark the beginning of the territories. Influenced by 1976 02:09:32.600 --> 02:09:36.760 the outer reaches, natural laws become more flexible. 1977 02:09:36.800 --> 02:09:36.960 Here. 1978 02:09:38.000 --> 02:09:42.079 Jack stepped forward onto the snow, his expression curious. This 1979 02:09:42.239 --> 02:09:46.520 isn't ordinary winter, he noted, kneeling to examine the crystalline surface. 1980 02:09:47.279 --> 02:09:51.239 It's not responding to me the way snow usually does. Indeed, 1981 02:09:51.560 --> 02:09:55.039 where Jack normally caused frost patterns to form around his feet, 1982 02:09:55.520 --> 02:09:59.640 here the snow remained unchanged, as if resistant to his influence. 1983 02:10:00.600 --> 02:10:03.000 The frost planes exist in a permanent state of winter, 1984 02:10:03.479 --> 02:10:06.199 but it's not the natural winner of our world, Edmund said. 1985 02:10:06.840 --> 02:10:09.600 It's more like an echo of the outer reaches bleeding through. 1986 02:10:10.880 --> 02:10:14.560 They donned additional cold weather gear from their packs, even Jack, 1987 02:10:15.000 --> 02:10:18.680 who rarely needed protection from cold. The wind that swept 1988 02:10:18.720 --> 02:10:22.159 across the plains carried a chill that went beyond physical temperature, 1989 02:10:22.800 --> 02:10:25.199 a cold that seemed to reach for their very essence. 1990 02:10:26.159 --> 02:10:29.920 How far across, Bart asked, securing a specialized covering for 1991 02:10:30.039 --> 02:10:33.399 his face that Edmund had given. Edmund consulted both the 1992 02:10:33.520 --> 02:10:37.880 map and his compass. About twenty miles to the actual boundary. 1993 02:10:38.239 --> 02:10:42.039 At our pace, that's a full day's journey. We should 1994 02:10:42.039 --> 02:10:45.720 stay close together, Jack advised, the plains are notorious for 1995 02:10:45.800 --> 02:10:50.760 spatial distortions, easy to get separated and lost. With Jack 1996 02:10:50.880 --> 02:10:53.840 leading the way, his winter affinity making him best suited 1997 02:10:53.880 --> 02:10:58.000 to navigate this unnatural frozen landscape, they set off across 1998 02:10:58.039 --> 02:11:02.079 the plains. The going was difficult immediately. The snow had 1999 02:11:02.119 --> 02:11:06.960 an unusual consistency, sometimes supporting their weight easily, other times 2000 02:11:07.039 --> 02:11:09.560 giving way unexpectedly to knee deep drifts. 2001 02:11:10.439 --> 02:11:11.079 The wind was. 2002 02:11:11.119 --> 02:11:16.279 Constant, carrying ice crystals that stung any exposed skin. Despite 2003 02:11:16.319 --> 02:11:19.439 the challenging conditions, they made steady progress through the morning. 2004 02:11:20.359 --> 02:11:24.319 Jack created paths of more navigable ice where possible, though 2005 02:11:24.399 --> 02:11:29.680 his powers worked inconsistently here. Bart's strength proved invaluable when 2006 02:11:29.720 --> 02:11:32.560 they encountered deep drifts or ice ridges that needed to 2007 02:11:32.600 --> 02:11:36.359 be climbed. Edmund kept them on course with his magical compass, 2008 02:11:36.760 --> 02:11:40.199 which occasionally spun erratically before settling back on their heading. 2009 02:11:41.079 --> 02:11:44.840 By midday, they had covered perhaps eight miles, good progress 2010 02:11:44.920 --> 02:11:48.600 given the conditions, but slower than they had hoped. They 2011 02:11:48.680 --> 02:11:52.479 paused briefly for rest and sustenance, creating a small wind 2012 02:11:52.560 --> 02:11:55.479 break with packed snow to shelter from the relentless gale. 2013 02:11:56.399 --> 02:11:59.800 The boundary feels closer than the physical distance would suggest Jack, 2014 02:12:00.680 --> 02:12:02.760 as they ate a simple meal of dried meat and 2015 02:12:02.920 --> 02:12:07.039 energy dense wafers. The air has that thinness to it. 2016 02:12:08.119 --> 02:12:12.560 Edmond nodded in agreement. Reality is less fixed here distance 2017 02:12:12.640 --> 02:12:16.920 becomes somewhat subjective. Could that work in our favor? Bart wondered, 2018 02:12:17.600 --> 02:12:20.319 if we're thinking about reaching the boundary, might it come 2019 02:12:20.359 --> 02:12:24.800 to us faster? Intentionality does have power in places like this, 2020 02:12:25.279 --> 02:12:29.239 Edmond acknowledged, but it can backfire If we focus too 2021 02:12:29.319 --> 02:12:31.880 much on the boundary, we might draw aspects of the 2022 02:12:31.960 --> 02:12:34.760 outer reaches to us before we're ready to face them. 2023 02:12:35.760 --> 02:12:39.520 As they continued their journey, the landscape became increasingly surreal. 2024 02:12:40.279 --> 02:12:45.039 Ice formations rose from the plane in impossible shapes, spirals, arches, 2025 02:12:45.119 --> 02:12:49.479 and towers that defied gravity and logic. The sky, initially 2026 02:12:49.560 --> 02:12:53.760 a clear, pale blue, developed patches of strange colors, violet, 2027 02:12:54.039 --> 02:12:56.880 amber and a green that was nothing like the northern lights. 2028 02:12:57.880 --> 02:13:01.520 The boundary is bleeding through more strongly, Edmond explained when 2029 02:13:01.560 --> 02:13:05.079 Bart questioned, the changes. The closer we get, the more 2030 02:13:05.119 --> 02:13:09.399 the rules of our world bend. The afternoon brought new challenges. 2031 02:13:09.840 --> 02:13:13.479 Twice they encountered massive crevasses that hadn't been visible until 2032 02:13:13.520 --> 02:13:16.560 they were nearly upon them. The gaps were too wide 2033 02:13:16.600 --> 02:13:20.760 to jump, forcing them to find paths around, costing precious time. 2034 02:13:21.600 --> 02:13:24.800 Then came the fog, not the moist mist of their world, 2035 02:13:25.199 --> 02:13:29.479 but a dry, crystalline haze that refracted light in confusing ways, 2036 02:13:30.119 --> 02:13:34.159 creating illusions of pathways and landmarks that vanished when approached. 2037 02:13:35.079 --> 02:13:38.119 Stay within arm's reach, Jack warned. As the fog thickened. 2038 02:13:38.680 --> 02:13:42.760 Use the buddy system. Edmund, hold onto my sash, Bart 2039 02:13:43.239 --> 02:13:46.880 keep a hand on Edmond's pack. Connected this way, they 2040 02:13:46.960 --> 02:13:51.039 pushed forward through the disorienting haze. The magical compass became 2041 02:13:51.119 --> 02:13:55.479 their only reliable guide, though even it wavered occasionally, the 2042 02:13:55.560 --> 02:13:59.439 needle trembling as if uncertain. After what seemed like hours 2043 02:13:59.439 --> 02:14:03.199 of careful progress through the fog, Bart noticed something strange. 2044 02:14:04.119 --> 02:14:08.159 The wind has stopped, he observed. Indeed, the constant gale 2045 02:14:08.239 --> 02:14:11.399 that had accompanied them across the plains had ceased entirely. 2046 02:14:12.239 --> 02:14:17.079 The air was completely still and unnaturally silent. That's not good, 2047 02:14:17.199 --> 02:14:21.880 Jack said tensely. Wind patterns don't just stop naturally. Someone's 2048 02:14:21.960 --> 02:14:25.920 manipulating the weather. Edmond agreed, his ears swiveling to detect 2049 02:14:26.000 --> 02:14:29.920 any sound in the unnatural quiet. They drew closer together, 2050 02:14:30.319 --> 02:14:34.000 alert for danger. The fog still limited visibility to a 2051 02:14:34.079 --> 02:14:36.920 few yards, but now it seemed to be thinning directly 2052 02:14:37.000 --> 02:14:40.560 ahead of them, creating a tunnel like path of clearer air. 2053 02:14:41.479 --> 02:14:45.479 It's a trap, Jack stated flatly, Almost certainly. Edmond agreed, 2054 02:14:46.039 --> 02:14:48.600 but it's also the direction we need to go according 2055 02:14:48.640 --> 02:14:52.479 to the compass. Then we proceed with caution. Bart decided 2056 02:14:53.039 --> 02:14:57.520 I'll take the lead. The sasquatch moved forward slowly, his 2057 02:14:57.680 --> 02:15:01.640 huge feet testing each step before committing weight. Jack and 2058 02:15:01.800 --> 02:15:05.840 Edmund followed closely, all three hyper aware of their surroundings. 2059 02:15:06.560 --> 02:15:10.479 The fog continued to thin, revealing a surreal landscape ahead. 2060 02:15:11.359 --> 02:15:13.279 They had reached what appeared to be a forest of 2061 02:15:13.359 --> 02:15:17.920 ice twisted, treelike formations that glittered with an inner blue light. 2062 02:15:18.880 --> 02:15:21.720 The ground beneath them changed from snow to something harder, 2063 02:15:22.239 --> 02:15:26.960 more crystalline that crunched with each step The crystalline approached, 2064 02:15:27.079 --> 02:15:31.199 Edmund whispered, we're very close to the boundary now. As 2065 02:15:31.239 --> 02:15:34.279 they ventured deeper into the ice forest, the formations grew 2066 02:15:34.399 --> 02:15:39.359 larger and more complex. Some resembled frozen waterfalls, other spiral 2067 02:15:39.439 --> 02:15:44.399 staircases that led nowhere. The crystalline ground became transparent in patches, 2068 02:15:44.800 --> 02:15:48.000 revealing swirling darkness beneath, as if they walked on a 2069 02:15:48.079 --> 02:15:51.760 frozen window looking into an abyss. Don't stare into the 2070 02:15:51.880 --> 02:15:54.079 dark patches, Edmund warned, they. 2071 02:15:53.920 --> 02:15:55.520 Can be hypnotic. 2072 02:15:56.720 --> 02:15:59.840 The path narrowed between towering ice walls, forcing them in 2073 02:16:00.159 --> 02:16:04.159 single file. The temperature, already well below freezing, dropped further. 2074 02:16:04.880 --> 02:16:08.079 Even through their specialized cold weather gear, they could feel 2075 02:16:08.119 --> 02:16:12.319 a bone deep chill that went beyond physical sensation. Were 2076 02:16:12.359 --> 02:16:15.800 being heard it, Jack observed quietly. No sooner had he 2077 02:16:15.880 --> 02:16:19.279 spoken than the path ahead suddenly widened into a perfect circle, 2078 02:16:19.760 --> 02:16:23.880 perhaps fifty yards in diameter. The ice formations created a 2079 02:16:24.000 --> 02:16:28.000 natural amphitheater around this open space. At the far side 2080 02:16:28.039 --> 02:16:31.840 stood a towering arch of black ice easily twenty feet high, 2081 02:16:32.440 --> 02:16:36.479 through which only darkness was visible. The boundary crossing. Edmund 2082 02:16:36.520 --> 02:16:40.079 identified it one of the few stable passages between our 2083 02:16:40.200 --> 02:16:43.520 world and the outer reaches. But it wasn't the arch 2084 02:16:43.639 --> 02:16:48.600 that held their attention. It was the figure standing before it. Boreus, 2085 02:16:48.879 --> 02:16:51.680 the North Wind Spirit, waited in the center of the circle. 2086 02:16:52.399 --> 02:16:56.040 His appearance had changed since their last encounter. His ice 2087 02:16:56.120 --> 02:16:59.559 pale skin now had a grayish undertone, and the frost 2088 02:16:59.639 --> 02:17:03.000 pattern that covered his form resembled wounds rather than natural 2089 02:17:03.120 --> 02:17:07.799 crystalline designs. Most disturbing were his eyes, once blue with 2090 02:17:07.920 --> 02:17:12.719 cold fire, now swirled with streaks of shadow. Welcome travelers, 2091 02:17:12.760 --> 02:17:16.840 he called, his voice, like breaking ice. I've been expecting you. 2092 02:17:18.079 --> 02:17:22.000 They advanced cautiously into the open space, maintaining distance from 2093 02:17:22.040 --> 02:17:28.239 the corrupted Winter Spirit Bereus. Jack acknowledged tensely, you look changed. 2094 02:17:29.440 --> 02:17:33.000 A smile split Bereus's face, revealing teeth that had become 2095 02:17:33.120 --> 02:17:35.079 sharp and jagged like ice shards. 2096 02:17:35.879 --> 02:17:36.319 Improved. 2097 02:17:36.399 --> 02:17:39.440 You mean the Shadow Court has granted me powers beyond 2098 02:17:39.520 --> 02:17:41.399 anything the Seasonal Council would allow. 2099 02:17:42.239 --> 02:17:42.959 At what cost? 2100 02:17:43.159 --> 02:17:48.600 Jack challenged, Look at yourself. They're corrupting your essence. Bereus sneered, 2101 02:17:49.280 --> 02:17:54.000 says the trader who abandoned Winter's supremacy for friendship. He 2102 02:17:54.079 --> 02:17:57.600 spat the word like a curse. While you played delivery. 2103 02:17:57.200 --> 02:17:58.040 Boy for the rabbit. 2104 02:17:58.399 --> 02:18:02.040 I'm reshaping Winter itself. We know what the Shadow Court 2105 02:18:02.120 --> 02:18:05.399 is planning, Edmund stated firmly. They're using you to weaken 2106 02:18:05.479 --> 02:18:09.120 the boundary to create a bridge for their crossing. Not 2107 02:18:09.360 --> 02:18:13.760 just a bridge, Boreas corrected, his corrupted eyes gleaming, a 2108 02:18:13.840 --> 02:18:17.760 permanent merger. When the ritual is complete, the boundary will 2109 02:18:17.799 --> 02:18:23.559 dissolve entirely, Winter eternal under Shadow Court direction. That's not 2110 02:18:23.680 --> 02:18:26.840 a victory for Winter, Bereus, Jack argued, that's the end 2111 02:18:26.879 --> 02:18:30.799 of everything, including Winter as it should be. Natural cycles 2112 02:18:30.799 --> 02:18:35.040 will collapse. There will be no renewal, no growth, no change, 2113 02:18:35.760 --> 02:18:40.239 just static, empty cold. For a moment, doubt flickered across 2114 02:18:40.280 --> 02:18:45.040 Bereus's face, then his expression hardened again. You always wor 2115 02:18:45.159 --> 02:18:50.719 soft Jack. Winter isn't about beauty or joy. It's about power, dominance, 2116 02:18:51.440 --> 02:18:54.639 and with the Shadow Court's backing, I will be Winter incarnate. 2117 02:18:55.760 --> 02:18:59.079 As he spoke, darkness seemed to gather around him, flowing 2118 02:18:59.120 --> 02:19:02.559 from the boundary arch. The temperature plummeted further, and the 2119 02:19:02.639 --> 02:19:05.440 crystalline ground beneath their feet began to crack with the 2120 02:19:05.520 --> 02:19:10.360 extreme cold enough talk Boreas snarled, My master's warned me 2121 02:19:10.440 --> 02:19:13.079 you might come to interfere. They'll be pleased when I 2122 02:19:13.159 --> 02:19:16.959 deliver your frozen corpses as tribute. He raised his hands, 2123 02:19:17.360 --> 02:19:21.159 and the very air seemed to solidify. Jagged shards of 2124 02:19:21.200 --> 02:19:25.399 black eyes formed around him, hovering momentarily before hurtling toward 2125 02:19:25.479 --> 02:19:30.319 the three friends with deadly force. Jack reacted instantly, summoning 2126 02:19:30.399 --> 02:19:33.360 his own winter powers to create a barrier of white ice. 2127 02:19:34.239 --> 02:19:38.879 The corrupted shards crashed against it, some penetrating partially before stopping. 2128 02:19:39.719 --> 02:19:43.680 The barrier held, but cracks spread across its surface. His 2129 02:19:43.799 --> 02:19:47.559 winter magic is stronger than mine here, Jack warned, reinforcing 2130 02:19:47.600 --> 02:19:51.159 the barrier with visible effort. We're too close to the boundary. 2131 02:19:51.639 --> 02:19:55.360 The Shadow Court is amplifying as powers. Then we need 2132 02:19:55.440 --> 02:19:58.399 to move away from the arch Edmund decided, draw him 2133 02:19:58.440 --> 02:20:00.879 back toward the planes, where they're in fluence is weaker. 2134 02:20:01.840 --> 02:20:05.639 Bart nodded in agreement. I'll create a diversion when I 2135 02:20:05.680 --> 02:20:09.280 give the signal, head back the way we came. Before 2136 02:20:09.319 --> 02:20:12.360 his companions could object, Bart charged toward the left side 2137 02:20:12.399 --> 02:20:17.000 of the amphitheater, drawing Boreus's attention. The Sasquatch's size and 2138 02:20:17.079 --> 02:20:20.479 speed made him an obvious threat, and Boreas redirected his 2139 02:20:20.600 --> 02:20:24.680 ice barrage toward this new target. Bart dodged with surprising 2140 02:20:24.760 --> 02:20:28.639 agility for his bulk, weaving between ice formations that provided 2141 02:20:28.719 --> 02:20:33.079 partial cover. One shard grazed his arm, instantly coating the 2142 02:20:33.159 --> 02:20:37.920 hair with black frost that spread painfully. Bart roared the 2143 02:20:38.040 --> 02:20:41.479 same primal sound that had deterred the trolls and smashed 2144 02:20:41.520 --> 02:20:46.000 an ice column, sending fragments flying toward Boreas. Now he 2145 02:20:46.079 --> 02:20:49.440 bellowed to his friends. Jack and Edmund darted back toward 2146 02:20:49.479 --> 02:20:52.719 the path they had entered by while Boreas was distracted 2147 02:20:52.799 --> 02:20:56.719 with Bart. The Winter Spirit noticed too late, Snarling with 2148 02:20:56.920 --> 02:21:00.280 rage as he realized they were splitting up. He sent 2149 02:21:00.360 --> 02:21:03.000 a wave of freezing energy that solidified the air in 2150 02:21:03.040 --> 02:21:07.120 front of Edmond and Jack, blocking their retreat. No escape, 2151 02:21:07.200 --> 02:21:11.399 Bres growled, summoning more shadow infused ice. None of you 2152 02:21:11.479 --> 02:21:15.280 will leave this place alive. But the diversion had achieved 2153 02:21:15.280 --> 02:21:19.280 its purpose. In focusing on Edmond and Jack, Bereus had 2154 02:21:19.319 --> 02:21:23.639 momentarily forgotten about Bart. The Sasquatch used the opportunity to 2155 02:21:23.680 --> 02:21:26.920 close the distance between them, barreling into the Winter Spirit 2156 02:21:27.040 --> 02:21:30.559 with his full weight behind the impact. Though Beres was 2157 02:21:30.600 --> 02:21:33.959 a powerful magical being, he was unprepared for the sheer 2158 02:21:34.040 --> 02:21:37.559 physical force of Bart's attack. Both went down in a 2159 02:21:37.680 --> 02:21:41.520 tangle of limbs and frost, sliding across the crystalline ground 2160 02:21:41.559 --> 02:21:44.799 toward the edge of the amphitheater. Jack seized the moment 2161 02:21:44.840 --> 02:21:48.760 to counterattack, sending a blast of pure winter magic, not 2162 02:21:48.879 --> 02:21:52.959 the aggressive ice shards Boreus favored, but a swirling snowstorm 2163 02:21:53.000 --> 02:21:57.920 that disoriented and confused. Within the flurry, Edmund darted forward, 2164 02:21:58.239 --> 02:22:00.520 reaching into his pack for a special weapon he had 2165 02:22:00.559 --> 02:22:04.319 prepared for just such an encounter. What he withdrew resembled 2166 02:22:04.319 --> 02:22:08.680 an egg, but it glowed with golden energy, a concentrated 2167 02:22:08.760 --> 02:22:11.319 form of the power egg he had used against Boreus 2168 02:22:11.399 --> 02:22:15.959 during their Easter confrontation. While Bart grappled with Boreus and Jack, 2169 02:22:16.040 --> 02:22:19.840 snowstorm provided cover. Edmond moved into position and waited for 2170 02:22:19.920 --> 02:22:23.760 his opening. It came when Bart momentarily pinned bores to 2171 02:22:23.840 --> 02:22:28.879 the ground. Edmond shouted Bart move and hurled the power 2172 02:22:28.959 --> 02:22:32.399 egg with precision. Bart rolled away just as the egg 2173 02:22:32.479 --> 02:22:35.360 struck Boreus in the center of his chest. There was 2174 02:22:35.399 --> 02:22:38.479 a flash of golden light and a sound like spring thunder. 2175 02:22:39.239 --> 02:22:43.760 Renewal energy exploded outward, directly opposing the shadow infused winter 2176 02:22:43.920 --> 02:22:48.120 magic Bereus had been channeling. The North Wind Spirit screamed 2177 02:22:48.719 --> 02:22:52.760 a howling gale of pain and rage. Where the renewal 2178 02:22:52.920 --> 02:22:57.479 energy touched his corrupted form, cracks appeared, golden light spilling 2179 02:22:57.520 --> 02:23:01.799 from within. He writhed on the ground, the shadow influence 2180 02:23:01.840 --> 02:23:05.920 and the renewal magic waging war within him. Now's our chance, 2181 02:23:06.040 --> 02:23:09.280 Jack urged, creating an ice path back toward the planes. 2182 02:23:09.920 --> 02:23:12.360 We can make it to the boundary while he's incapacitated. 2183 02:23:13.360 --> 02:23:16.120 We can't leave him like this. Bart objected, looking at 2184 02:23:16.159 --> 02:23:20.360 the suffering Winter Spirit. He made his choice, Jack said harshly, 2185 02:23:20.920 --> 02:23:26.520 though his expression showed conflict. Edmund stepped forward, studying Boreas thoughtfully. 2186 02:23:27.319 --> 02:23:30.719 The renewal energy is fighting the shadow corruption. It might 2187 02:23:30.760 --> 02:23:36.520 be able to purge it entirely, but the process is incomplete. Indeed, 2188 02:23:36.600 --> 02:23:39.399 while parts of Bereus now glowed with golden light where 2189 02:23:39.440 --> 02:23:43.799 the corruption was being driven out, other areas remained shadow infused, 2190 02:23:44.399 --> 02:23:48.159 the darkness seeming to gather and concentrate rather than disperse. 2191 02:23:49.079 --> 02:23:53.239 We need to help the process along. Edmund decided Bart, Jack, 2192 02:23:53.920 --> 02:23:56.559 we need to use our combined powers, just as the 2193 02:23:56.600 --> 02:24:02.000 first egg showed me balance against chaos. Understanding dawned on 2194 02:24:02.040 --> 02:24:06.000 their faces. Together, they approached the writhing form of Boreus, 2195 02:24:06.479 --> 02:24:10.159 forming a triangle around him. Focus on what you represent, 2196 02:24:10.360 --> 02:24:15.600 Edmund instructed Jack, natural winter, the necessary sleep before rebirth. 2197 02:24:16.319 --> 02:24:20.799 Bart wilderness, the untamed balance of nature, and I will 2198 02:24:20.879 --> 02:24:25.319 channel renewal, the promise of new beginnings. They each reached 2199 02:24:25.360 --> 02:24:28.399 out a hand toward the center, not quite touching Boreus, 2200 02:24:28.639 --> 02:24:32.520 but directing their energy toward him. Jack's hand emanated a 2201 02:24:32.639 --> 02:24:37.399 pure white cold Bart's radiated a deep green brown energy 2202 02:24:37.440 --> 02:24:41.399 that felt like ancient forests. Edmunds glowed with the golden 2203 02:24:41.479 --> 02:24:45.440 light of spring renewal. Where their energies met over Boreus, 2204 02:24:45.760 --> 02:24:49.120 they combined into a swirling harmony of colors and sensations, 2205 02:24:49.760 --> 02:24:53.760 the complete cycle of nature and balance. This unified force 2206 02:24:53.840 --> 02:24:57.239 flowed into the winter spirit, seeking out the shadow corruption 2207 02:24:57.600 --> 02:25:02.559 and neutralizing its arched in pain, then suddenly went still. 2208 02:25:03.399 --> 02:25:05.959 For a terrifying moment, it seemed they might have killed him. 2209 02:25:06.639 --> 02:25:10.319 Then his eyes flew open, clear blue, once more, without 2210 02:25:10.360 --> 02:25:11.319 a trace of shadow. 2211 02:25:12.200 --> 02:25:13.840 What what happened? 2212 02:25:13.920 --> 02:25:17.120 He asked, his voice smaller and less certain than before. 2213 02:25:18.159 --> 02:25:21.840 We purged the Shadow Court's influence, Jack explained, offering a 2214 02:25:21.920 --> 02:25:24.719 hand to help his fellow Winter spirit sit up. You 2215 02:25:24.799 --> 02:25:25.600 were being corrupted. 2216 02:25:25.680 --> 02:25:26.079 Marius. 2217 02:25:27.280 --> 02:25:29.719 The North Wind spirit, looked down at himself in horror, 2218 02:25:30.159 --> 02:25:33.159 seeing the last traces of shadow dissipating from his form. 2219 02:25:34.079 --> 02:25:39.639 I remember, they promised me power, recognition. They said Winter 2220 02:25:39.719 --> 02:25:44.040 could reign eternal. They lied, Edmond said gently. They were 2221 02:25:44.120 --> 02:25:47.000 using you to weaken the boundary to create a passage 2222 02:25:47.040 --> 02:25:51.399 for their return. Bereus's expression darkened with shame and anger. 2223 02:25:52.280 --> 02:25:57.200 They were in my thoughts, my dreams, twisting everything. He 2224 02:25:57.280 --> 02:25:59.840 looked up at the three friends. Why did you help 2225 02:25:59.879 --> 02:26:04.680 me after what I did? Because balance requires all aspects 2226 02:26:04.719 --> 02:26:08.319 of nature, Bart explained simply, even the harshest winter has 2227 02:26:08.360 --> 02:26:11.760 its place in the cycle. Boreus struggled to his feet, 2228 02:26:12.159 --> 02:26:16.000 still weak from the purging the boundary. He said urgently, 2229 02:26:16.719 --> 02:26:20.719 it's still weakened the ritual I began. It's not complete, 2230 02:26:21.200 --> 02:26:24.040 but the damage is done. The Shadow Court can push 2231 02:26:24.120 --> 02:26:26.719 through in places. That's why we're here. 2232 02:26:26.920 --> 02:26:27.559 Edmond nodded. 2233 02:26:28.159 --> 02:26:31.719 To repair the boundary. You'll need to hurry, Borius warned, 2234 02:26:32.200 --> 02:26:36.000 pointing toward the black Ice Arch. Even now they gathered 2235 02:26:36.000 --> 02:26:38.799 their forces on the other side, preparing to cross through 2236 02:26:38.799 --> 02:26:43.040 the weakened points. Jack looked at his fellow Winter spirit, assessingly, 2237 02:26:43.840 --> 02:26:46.239 can you help us? Your knowledge of what they were 2238 02:26:46.319 --> 02:26:51.440 planning could be valuable. Boreus hesitated, then straightened some of 2239 02:26:51.520 --> 02:26:55.200 his dignity, returning, Yes, it's the least I can do 2240 02:26:55.319 --> 02:26:58.680 to atone, But I warn you what lies beyond that 2241 02:26:58.920 --> 02:27:01.840 arch is unlike any thing in our world. The outer 2242 02:27:01.959 --> 02:27:06.520 reaches bend reality itself. Then we go prepared, Edmund decided, 2243 02:27:07.120 --> 02:27:11.680 and together the four unlikely allies turned toward the towering 2244 02:27:11.760 --> 02:27:16.799 black Arch. Beyond it, shadow swirled, occasionally taking half formed 2245 02:27:16.840 --> 02:27:21.479 shapes before dissolving again. The boundary between worlds, already damaged, 2246 02:27:21.520 --> 02:27:25.799 awaited their intervention with renewed purpose. They approached the crossing point. 2247 02:27:26.360 --> 02:27:30.159 Their mission had grown more complex, no longer just reinforcing 2248 02:27:30.239 --> 02:27:33.680 the boundary, but actively opposing a shadow court already in 2249 02:27:33.760 --> 02:27:36.959 the process of breaking through. But they also had an 2250 02:27:37.040 --> 02:27:41.079 unexpected ally in Boreus, and the knowledge that their combined 2251 02:27:41.159 --> 02:27:45.360 powers were effective against shadow corruption. As they stepped through 2252 02:27:45.399 --> 02:27:48.719 the arch into the distorted reality beyond, each felt the 2253 02:27:48.799 --> 02:27:52.239 weight of their responsibility. The fate of both their world 2254 02:27:52.360 --> 02:27:55.360 and the delicate balance of nature itself rested on what 2255 02:27:55.479 --> 02:27:58.040 they would do in the nightmare realm they now entered. 2256 02:27:58.879 --> 02:28:01.280 The transition through the black, black ice arch was unlike 2257 02:28:01.360 --> 02:28:05.040 any magical passage they had experienced before. There was no 2258 02:28:05.159 --> 02:28:09.719 sense of movement or journey, simply a wrenching discontinuity, as 2259 02:28:09.760 --> 02:28:13.760 if reality itself had hiccuped. One moment they stood before 2260 02:28:13.799 --> 02:28:18.440 the arch in the crystaline amphitheater. The next they existed elsewhere. 2261 02:28:19.319 --> 02:28:23.440 The outer reaches defied conventional description. The landscape, if it 2262 02:28:23.479 --> 02:28:27.319 could be called that, was in constant flux. The ground 2263 02:28:27.360 --> 02:28:31.120 beneath their feet appeared solid one moment, translucent the next, 2264 02:28:31.600 --> 02:28:36.479 revealing swirling abysses that seemed to contain entire galaxies. The sky, 2265 02:28:36.799 --> 02:28:40.639 though up, was a dubious concept. Here, shifted between midnight 2266 02:28:40.760 --> 02:28:45.040 black and pale, empty white, occasionally rippling with colors that 2267 02:28:45.159 --> 02:28:49.040 had no names in their world. Structures that resembled buildings 2268 02:28:49.200 --> 02:28:54.040 rose in the distance their architecture, impossible staircases that looped 2269 02:28:54.079 --> 02:28:57.479 back on themselves, towers that were somehow both near and 2270 02:28:57.600 --> 02:29:03.399 far simultaneously that connected nothing to nowhere. The entire realm 2271 02:29:03.440 --> 02:29:05.920 seemed to flicker in and out of focus, as if 2272 02:29:05.959 --> 02:29:10.680 struggling to maintain consistency. Don't trust your eyes, Borius warned, 2273 02:29:11.239 --> 02:29:14.200 his voice sounding strangely flat. In the altered physics of 2274 02:29:14.280 --> 02:29:18.200 this place, The outer reaches respond to expectation and fear. 2275 02:29:18.920 --> 02:29:22.159 What you believe you see can become real, especially if 2276 02:29:22.200 --> 02:29:26.360 you're afraid of it. Pleasant Jack muttered, creating a small 2277 02:29:26.440 --> 02:29:29.000 frost pattern on his palm as if to confirm his 2278 02:29:29.159 --> 02:29:33.200 powers still worked here. The ice formed, but its crystalline 2279 02:29:33.239 --> 02:29:37.360 structure was more complex than normal, branching in fractal patterns 2280 02:29:37.399 --> 02:29:41.319 that continued to elaborate themselves even after he stopped consciously 2281 02:29:41.440 --> 02:29:45.719 directing the magic. Edmund consulted his magical compass, which was 2282 02:29:45.760 --> 02:29:49.600 spinning wildly, occasionally pointing in directions that didn't seem to 2283 02:29:49.719 --> 02:29:54.239 exist in three dimensional space. Well that's not helpful, he sighed, 2284 02:29:54.760 --> 02:29:58.120 returning it to his pack. How do we find the shadow, court, 2285 02:29:58.200 --> 02:30:02.000 Bart asked. Practically, his size and solid presence seemed to 2286 02:30:02.040 --> 02:30:05.120 be an anchor of reality in this shifting place. The 2287 02:30:05.239 --> 02:30:09.000 area immediately around him, fluctuated less than the surrounding chaos. 2288 02:30:09.879 --> 02:30:12.360 Beres pointed toward what appeared to be a mountain range 2289 02:30:12.399 --> 02:30:16.399 in the distance, though the peaks occasionally inverted to become abysses. 2290 02:30:17.360 --> 02:30:21.440 Their stronghold lies there in the inverted citadel. It's where 2291 02:30:21.479 --> 02:30:25.000 they've been conducting the ritual to weaken the boundary. And 2292 02:30:25.120 --> 02:30:27.959 how do we get there, Jack asked, eyeing the terrain 2293 02:30:28.120 --> 02:30:31.319 between them and the distant peaks. What might have been 2294 02:30:31.319 --> 02:30:33.799 a plane in their world here appeared as a series 2295 02:30:33.879 --> 02:30:37.280 of floating islands connected by bridges that phased in and 2296 02:30:37.360 --> 02:30:43.639 out of existence. Carefully, Beres replied, grimly, and together. Separation 2297 02:30:43.799 --> 02:30:47.200 in this realm is dangerous. The Shadow Court can manipulate 2298 02:30:47.319 --> 02:30:52.159 isolated individuals more easily. They set off toward the distant mountains, 2299 02:30:52.520 --> 02:30:56.079 maintaining physical contact with each other to avoid being separated 2300 02:30:56.120 --> 02:31:00.200 by the realms spatial distortions. Bart took the lead, his 2301 02:31:00.280 --> 02:31:04.520 substantial reality seeming to stabilize the path ahead, while Bereus 2302 02:31:04.559 --> 02:31:08.120 brought up the rear his winter magic, creating tangible markers 2303 02:31:08.159 --> 02:31:11.760 of ice to insure their way back remained clear. The 2304 02:31:11.879 --> 02:31:15.120 journey through the outer reaches defied normal perception of time 2305 02:31:15.200 --> 02:31:18.719 and distance. Sometimes the mountains seemed to rush toward them, 2306 02:31:18.920 --> 02:31:21.200 as if they had crossed miles in a single step. 2307 02:31:22.120 --> 02:31:24.760 Other Times they appeared to make no progress at all, 2308 02:31:24.879 --> 02:31:29.159 despite walking for what felt like hours. Occasionally they encountered 2309 02:31:29.239 --> 02:31:33.200 pockets of warped reality, where gravity shifted suddenly, or time 2310 02:31:33.239 --> 02:31:36.959 itself seemed to flow backward. The boundary damage is worse 2311 02:31:37.000 --> 02:31:40.559 than I thought, Borias observed as they navigated a particularly 2312 02:31:40.760 --> 02:31:44.520 unstable section where the ground rippled like liquid beneath their feet. 2313 02:31:45.440 --> 02:31:48.000 The shadow Court has already managed to push parts of 2314 02:31:48.079 --> 02:31:52.520 the outer reaches into alignment with our world meaning Edmond asked, 2315 02:31:53.040 --> 02:31:56.879 hopping carefully from one solid spot to another, meaning their 2316 02:31:56.959 --> 02:32:01.360 halfway to their goal. Borius explained, first they aligned the realms, 2317 02:32:01.760 --> 02:32:06.200 creating areas of overlap. Then they dissolved the boundary completely, 2318 02:32:06.600 --> 02:32:07.760 allowing full merger. 2319 02:32:08.719 --> 02:32:09.520 How do we stop it? 2320 02:32:09.639 --> 02:32:13.360 Jack asked, We need to reach the ritual site, Borius said. 2321 02:32:13.959 --> 02:32:16.680 They've been using the corrupted renewal energy I gathered to 2322 02:32:16.760 --> 02:32:20.000 power a spell of unmaking, focused on the key points 2323 02:32:20.040 --> 02:32:24.639 where the boundary is naturally thinner. Edmond nodded thoughtfully, and 2324 02:32:24.760 --> 02:32:27.760 if we can counter that energy with balanced renewal magic, 2325 02:32:28.159 --> 02:32:31.840 we might be able to restore the natural separation. As 2326 02:32:31.920 --> 02:32:34.600 they drew closer to the mountain range, the environment became 2327 02:32:34.760 --> 02:32:40.280 increasingly hostile. Crystallinformations erupted from the ground without warning, The 2328 02:32:40.399 --> 02:32:44.760 air itself occasionally solidified into choking fog that tasted of despair. 2329 02:32:45.760 --> 02:32:48.319 Most concerning were the shadows that began to appear at 2330 02:32:48.360 --> 02:32:51.719 the edges of their vision. Not simple absences of light, 2331 02:32:52.159 --> 02:32:56.399 but active darknesses that moved with purpose. Were being watched. 2332 02:32:56.520 --> 02:33:01.360 Jack warned, frost forming defensively around his hands. Shadow scouts 2333 02:33:01.440 --> 02:33:05.239 boreas confirmed the court's eyes and ears. They know we're 2334 02:33:05.280 --> 02:33:09.399 here now. No sooner had he spoken than the shadows converged, 2335 02:33:09.879 --> 02:33:14.200 taking more substantial form. They resembled humanoid figures made of 2336 02:33:14.280 --> 02:33:18.440 condensed darkness, with glowing violet eyes and limbs that ended 2337 02:33:18.479 --> 02:33:23.000 in wispy tendrils rather than hands or feet. Intruders, hissed, 2338 02:33:23.040 --> 02:33:27.200 one scout, its voice like dry leaves rustling. The masters 2339 02:33:27.239 --> 02:33:31.120 will be pleased fresh essence for the ritual. They're not 2340 02:33:31.239 --> 02:33:35.559 fully corporeal. Edmund observed physical attacks might not be effective, 2341 02:33:36.319 --> 02:33:40.200 but light and renewal energy should be breas suggested Jack 2342 02:33:40.280 --> 02:33:43.840 immediately created a brilliant burst of ice crystals that refracted 2343 02:33:43.920 --> 02:33:47.840 the strange ambient light of the realm, temporarily dazzling the 2344 02:33:47.920 --> 02:33:52.360 shadow creatures. While they were disoriented, Edmond withdrew another of 2345 02:33:52.399 --> 02:33:55.319 his power eggs. This one's smaller than the one he'd 2346 02:33:55.399 --> 02:33:59.200 used on Boreas, but still potent. Cover your eyes, he 2347 02:33:59.280 --> 02:34:02.239 warned his companion Onions, before hurling the egg to the ground. 2348 02:34:03.079 --> 02:34:07.159 It exploded in a flash of pure spring sunshine, actual 2349 02:34:07.239 --> 02:34:10.000 physical sunlight that was jarringly out of place in this 2350 02:34:10.159 --> 02:34:13.840 realm of distortion. The shadow scout shrieked as the light 2351 02:34:13.959 --> 02:34:18.840 touched them, their forms dissipating like smoke. Within moments, they 2352 02:34:18.879 --> 02:34:23.280 had vanished entirely. That won't destroy them permanently, Edmond cautioned, 2353 02:34:23.760 --> 02:34:27.079 but it should give us some time. They quickened their pace, 2354 02:34:27.559 --> 02:34:30.680 the distant mountains now revealing themselves to be not natural 2355 02:34:30.760 --> 02:34:35.600 formations at all, but an enormous structure, the inverted citadel 2356 02:34:35.680 --> 02:34:39.319 that Bereus had mentioned. It resembled a mountain range only 2357 02:34:39.440 --> 02:34:42.600 in scale. Its actual form was that of a massive 2358 02:34:42.680 --> 02:34:46.760 fortress built upside down, its highest towers plunging toward the 2359 02:34:46.840 --> 02:34:50.479 ground while its foundations reached toward the ever shifting sky. 2360 02:34:51.559 --> 02:34:52.520 How is that possible? 2361 02:34:52.639 --> 02:34:57.520 Bart wondered, staring at the architectural impossibility. The Shadow Court 2362 02:34:57.600 --> 02:35:01.840 rejects natural laws, Bereus explained. Their fortress is designed to 2363 02:35:01.879 --> 02:35:05.360 break the mind's expectations, to disorient and confuse. 2364 02:35:06.360 --> 02:35:07.000 How do we get in? 2365 02:35:07.280 --> 02:35:10.680 Jack asked, Practically, the main ritual chamber will be at 2366 02:35:10.719 --> 02:35:13.360 the center. What would be the central courtyard in a 2367 02:35:13.440 --> 02:35:17.239 normal fortress, but here it's suspended between the inverted towers. 2368 02:35:17.319 --> 02:35:18.040 Boreas said. 2369 02:35:18.840 --> 02:35:21.120 There are entrances along the outer wall, but they'll be 2370 02:35:21.200 --> 02:35:26.000 heavily guarded. Then we need a distraction. Edmund decided something 2371 02:35:26.040 --> 02:35:28.440 to draw attention away from one entrance while we slip 2372 02:35:28.520 --> 02:35:33.319 in through another. Jack smiled. A hint of his old mischievousness. 2373 02:35:33.399 --> 02:35:36.879 Returning a winter storm should do the trick, A big 2374 02:35:36.959 --> 02:35:40.440 one focused on the far side of the citadel. I 2375 02:35:40.520 --> 02:35:43.639 can help with that, Borius offered. My powers are still 2376 02:35:43.719 --> 02:35:47.079 weak after your purging, but combined with yours we could 2377 02:35:47.120 --> 02:35:52.680 create something impressive. Edmund nodded approvingly. Perfect, Bart and I 2378 02:35:52.760 --> 02:35:56.479 will slip in while you two create the distraction. Once inside, 2379 02:35:56.840 --> 02:35:59.120 we'll find a way to let you in through another entrance. 2380 02:36:00.159 --> 02:36:02.639 They approached as close to the citadel as they dared, 2381 02:36:02.680 --> 02:36:06.280 before separating from their vantage point behind a cluster of 2382 02:36:06.319 --> 02:36:10.280 floating crystal formations, They could see shadow beings moving along 2383 02:36:10.360 --> 02:36:14.520 the walls, some resembling the scouts they had encountered, others 2384 02:36:14.639 --> 02:36:19.040 larger and more substantial, with armor formed of crystallized darkness. 2385 02:36:19.959 --> 02:36:24.000 Shadow Knights Bores identified the larger figures the Court's elite 2386 02:36:24.079 --> 02:36:29.520 warriors extremely dangerous. They can solidify shadow into weapons and shields. 2387 02:36:30.440 --> 02:36:34.479 Jack studied the defenses carefully there, he said, pointing to 2388 02:36:34.559 --> 02:36:36.680 a small entrance on the left side of the massive 2389 02:36:36.680 --> 02:36:40.719 structure that looks less guarded. If we create enough chaos 2390 02:36:40.799 --> 02:36:42.920 on the right side, you two might be able to 2391 02:36:43.000 --> 02:36:47.479 reach it unnoticed. They finalized their plan quickly. Jack and 2392 02:36:47.559 --> 02:36:49.879 Boris would move to a position where they could target 2393 02:36:49.920 --> 02:36:52.920 the right side of the citadel with an impressive display 2394 02:36:53.040 --> 02:36:57.000 of winter fury. Once the shadow defenders responded to that threat, 2395 02:36:57.440 --> 02:37:00.959 Edmund and Bart would make their move careful. Jack told 2396 02:37:01.000 --> 02:37:04.479 his friends as they prepared to separate, and remember, this 2397 02:37:04.639 --> 02:37:07.760 place responds to fear. Don't let it CeNSE your doubts. 2398 02:37:08.840 --> 02:37:11.440 We'll be fine, Edmond assured him, with more confidence than 2399 02:37:11.479 --> 02:37:14.280 he felt, Just make it a storm. They won't forget. 2400 02:37:15.479 --> 02:37:18.719 Jack and Boris moved away, circling toward the right side 2401 02:37:18.760 --> 02:37:22.280 of the massive fortress. Edmond and Bart settled into wait, 2402 02:37:22.760 --> 02:37:26.879 watching the limited patrols along their planned entrance point. Are 2403 02:37:26.959 --> 02:37:30.280 you afraid, Bart asked quietly. After a few moments of silence, 2404 02:37:31.159 --> 02:37:36.840 Edmond's nose twitched. Terrified, he admitted, but also strangely certain. 2405 02:37:37.680 --> 02:37:39.920 The first egg showed me we would come to this place, 2406 02:37:40.440 --> 02:37:43.600 though it didn't reveal what we would find here. Bart 2407 02:37:43.680 --> 02:37:48.239 nodded thoughtfully. I've lived for centuries avoiding danger, hiding from 2408 02:37:48.280 --> 02:37:51.520 the wider world. Yet here I am at the edge 2409 02:37:51.559 --> 02:37:55.840 of reality itself, about to storm a shadow fortress, he 2410 02:37:55.959 --> 02:38:01.959 chuckled softly. And somehow it feels right the unlikeliest guardians, 2411 02:38:02.079 --> 02:38:06.200 Edmond agreed with a small smile. Their conversation was interrupted 2412 02:38:06.239 --> 02:38:08.600 by a sudden howl of wind from the far side 2413 02:38:08.639 --> 02:38:12.959 of the citadel. Looking over, they saw an impressive spectacle unfolding. 2414 02:38:13.639 --> 02:38:17.479 A massive storm had materialized, with swirling snow and ice 2415 02:38:17.559 --> 02:38:21.079 that glittered with unnatural brightness against the dark backdrop of 2416 02:38:21.159 --> 02:38:25.239 the outer reaches. Lightning like flashes of winter energy arked 2417 02:38:25.280 --> 02:38:28.840 through the tempest, striking the walls of the fortress. The 2418 02:38:28.959 --> 02:38:33.159 reaction was immediate. Shadow Nights and scouts streamed toward the disturbance, 2419 02:38:33.479 --> 02:38:38.399 abandoning their posts along the left wall. Alarm sounded strange, 2420 02:38:38.479 --> 02:38:42.280 discordant tones that seemed to vibrate through reality itself rather 2421 02:38:42.399 --> 02:38:47.000 than merely through the air. Now, Edmund whispered. They darted 2422 02:38:47.040 --> 02:38:49.920 from their hiding place, crossing the open space before the 2423 02:38:50.000 --> 02:38:54.280 citadel with surprising speed. Bart's large form should have made 2424 02:38:54.319 --> 02:38:57.360 him conspicuous, but he moved with the silent grace that 2425 02:38:57.440 --> 02:39:01.639 had kept him hidden from humans for centuries. Edmund hopped alongside, 2426 02:39:02.000 --> 02:39:05.639 his natural rabbit agility, serving him well. They reached the 2427 02:39:05.680 --> 02:39:09.399 small entrance, a doorway that, like everything in the fortress, 2428 02:39:09.840 --> 02:39:12.920 was inverted, its top connecting to the ground, while its 2429 02:39:12.959 --> 02:39:16.639 bottom opened to the shifting void above. After a moment 2430 02:39:16.680 --> 02:39:19.680 of disorientation, they realized they would need to climb up 2431 02:39:19.719 --> 02:39:23.799 into the opening. Bart lifted Edmund to the threshold, then 2432 02:39:23.840 --> 02:39:27.760 pulled himself up with impressive upper body strength. The passage 2433 02:39:27.840 --> 02:39:31.120 beyond was a corridor that seemed to defy gravity. They 2434 02:39:31.200 --> 02:39:33.600 found themselves standing on what should have been the ceiling, 2435 02:39:34.040 --> 02:39:38.200 looking up at a floor. The disorientation was profound until 2436 02:39:38.239 --> 02:39:41.840 they realized that within the fortress, gravity simply operated in 2437 02:39:41.959 --> 02:39:43.600 reverse relative. 2438 02:39:43.200 --> 02:39:44.000 To the outside. 2439 02:39:45.000 --> 02:39:49.000 This way, Edmund whispered, consulting an intuitive sense of direction 2440 02:39:49.479 --> 02:39:53.520 rather than his useless compass, and stay tuned for more 2441 02:39:53.600 --> 02:39:56.639 sasquatch otta see, We'll be right back. After these messages, 2442 02:40:01.280 --> 02:40:04.879 the ritual chamber should be toward the center. They moved 2443 02:40:04.959 --> 02:40:08.959 carefully through the shadowy corridors, encountering few guards thanks to 2444 02:40:09.120 --> 02:40:13.399 Jack and Boreas's effective distraction. Those they did meet they 2445 02:40:13.520 --> 02:40:16.799 managed to avoid by ducking into side passages, or, in 2446 02:40:16.920 --> 02:40:19.719 one case, hiding in what appeared to be a storeroom 2447 02:40:19.799 --> 02:40:24.639 filled with crystallized memories, small dark objects that whispered forgotten 2448 02:40:24.760 --> 02:40:29.000 secrets when approached too closely. As they penetrated deeper into 2449 02:40:29.040 --> 02:40:32.440 the citadel, a palpable energy began to build around them. 2450 02:40:33.159 --> 02:40:37.120 The air thickened with power that tasted of corruption, renewal, 2451 02:40:37.200 --> 02:40:41.200 magic twisted and inverted, just as the fortress itself was inverted. 2452 02:40:42.000 --> 02:40:45.639 Were getting close, Edmund murmured, his furs standing on end 2453 02:40:45.760 --> 02:40:49.440 from the magical discharge in the air. Finally, they reached 2454 02:40:49.440 --> 02:40:51.959 a set of massive doors formed of what appeared to 2455 02:40:52.000 --> 02:40:55.959 be solidified shadow beyond them. They could hear a rhythmic 2456 02:40:56.120 --> 02:40:59.239 chanting and feel pulses of dark energy that made reality 2457 02:40:59.319 --> 02:41:03.719 itself show utter the ritual chamber, Edmund confirmed, But how 2458 02:41:03.719 --> 02:41:04.200 do we get in? 2459 02:41:04.440 --> 02:41:05.040 Unnoticed? 2460 02:41:05.959 --> 02:41:10.280 Bart examined the area carefully, his wilderness instincts searching for 2461 02:41:10.399 --> 02:41:14.840 alternate paths. There, he pointed to a small ventilation shaft 2462 02:41:14.959 --> 02:41:19.239 near the ceiling, which, in the inverted architecture, ran along 2463 02:41:19.319 --> 02:41:22.440 what would normally be the floor. It might lead into 2464 02:41:22.520 --> 02:41:25.799 the chamber. I'm too large, but you could fit easily, 2465 02:41:26.719 --> 02:41:29.879 Edmund nodded. I'll scout ahead, then find a way to 2466 02:41:29.959 --> 02:41:32.680 let you, Jack and boy us in. We'll need all 2467 02:41:32.760 --> 02:41:36.440 four of us to counter their ritual. Bart boosted Edmond 2468 02:41:36.559 --> 02:41:39.319 up to the shaft, which was indeed just large enough 2469 02:41:39.360 --> 02:41:43.040 for a rabbit to navigate comfortably. The passage wound through 2470 02:41:43.079 --> 02:41:46.360 the structure for some distance before opening into an ornate 2471 02:41:46.479 --> 02:41:50.479 grate that overlooked a vast chamber. What Edmund saw through 2472 02:41:50.520 --> 02:41:54.040 the grate made his blood run cold. The ritual chamber 2473 02:41:54.159 --> 02:41:58.319 was enormous, larger than seemed physically possible given the external 2474 02:41:58.360 --> 02:42:01.959 dimensions of the citadel. At its center floated a pulsing 2475 02:42:02.159 --> 02:42:05.200 orb of darkness, shot through with veins of corrupted spring 2476 02:42:05.399 --> 02:42:08.159 energy that now glowed a sickly purple rather than the 2477 02:42:08.280 --> 02:42:12.879 healthy gold of true renewal magic. Around this orb, dozens 2478 02:42:12.920 --> 02:42:16.879 of shadow beings moved in complex patterns, their chanting rising 2479 02:42:17.000 --> 02:42:20.399 and falling in a hypnotic rhythm. But most disturbing of 2480 02:42:20.479 --> 02:42:24.280 all was what surrounded the ritual space, hundreds of smaller 2481 02:42:24.360 --> 02:42:27.719 shadow orbs, each containing what appeared to be a captured 2482 02:42:27.760 --> 02:42:32.639 creature or spirit. Edmund recognized magical beings from his own world, 2483 02:42:33.239 --> 02:42:37.120 nature spirits, minor seasonal entities, even what looked like a 2484 02:42:37.239 --> 02:42:40.079 captured snow leopard guardian similar to the one they had 2485 02:42:40.120 --> 02:42:44.559 seen Jack Frost transporting days earlier. The Shadow Court was 2486 02:42:44.639 --> 02:42:48.440 drawing power from these captives, siphoning their magical essence to 2487 02:42:48.520 --> 02:42:51.959 fuel the boundary breaking ritual. With each pulse of the 2488 02:42:52.040 --> 02:42:56.399 central orb, the prisoners visibly weakened, their own light dimming. 2489 02:42:57.239 --> 02:42:59.520 At the far side of the chamber stood three figures. 2490 02:42:59.600 --> 02:43:04.200 Distinct from the other shadow beings. They were larger, more substantial, 2491 02:43:04.600 --> 02:43:09.120 and radiated an aura of terrible power. Unlike the amorphous 2492 02:43:09.159 --> 02:43:13.319 shadow scouts or the armored Knights, these figures had distinct forms, 2493 02:43:13.879 --> 02:43:17.639 though their features constantly shifted, as if unable to settle 2494 02:43:17.719 --> 02:43:22.159 on a single appearance. The shadow Lords, Edmund realized, the 2495 02:43:22.280 --> 02:43:25.520 rulers of the court, the masterminds behind the plan to 2496 02:43:25.639 --> 02:43:29.120 merge the realms. One of the lords suddenly paused in 2497 02:43:29.200 --> 02:43:33.120 the ritual, raising a hand for silence. We have intruders, 2498 02:43:33.200 --> 02:43:37.680 it announced its voice, like multiple voices speaking in discordant harmony. 2499 02:43:38.440 --> 02:43:44.120 The Winter Traders have returned, and they've brought friends. Edmund froze, 2500 02:43:44.600 --> 02:43:48.440 pressing himself flat against the shaft's floor. Had they sensed him? 2501 02:43:49.280 --> 02:43:52.840 The disturbance outside is a diversion, continued the shadow Lord. 2502 02:43:53.399 --> 02:43:54.200 But it matters not. 2503 02:43:55.000 --> 02:43:58.000 The ritual has progressed too far to be stopped. Soon 2504 02:43:58.399 --> 02:44:01.520 the final boundary will collapse, and our realms will be one. 2505 02:44:02.680 --> 02:44:05.040 Edmond had seen enough. He needed to find a way 2506 02:44:05.079 --> 02:44:08.559 to let his friends in, and, quickly backing away from 2507 02:44:08.600 --> 02:44:11.879 the grate, he continued along the ventilation shaft, searching for 2508 02:44:11.959 --> 02:44:14.360 an exit that might lead to a less guarded area 2509 02:44:14.479 --> 02:44:18.040 of the fortress. After several twists and turns, he emerged 2510 02:44:18.079 --> 02:44:20.600 into a small ante chamber that appeared to be some 2511 02:44:20.799 --> 02:44:22.040 kind of preparation room. 2512 02:44:22.120 --> 02:44:22.840 For the rituals. 2513 02:44:23.559 --> 02:44:27.280 It was unoccupied, with various arcane instruments laid out on 2514 02:44:27.399 --> 02:44:31.280 inverted tables. Most importantly, it had a small side door 2515 02:44:31.360 --> 02:44:35.360 that led to an exterior portion of the citadel. Moving quietly, 2516 02:44:35.520 --> 02:44:38.120 Edmond made his way to this door and opened it carefully. 2517 02:44:38.920 --> 02:44:41.799 Outside was a narrow ledge that ran along the outer 2518 02:44:41.959 --> 02:44:46.280 wall of the fortress, high above or technically below the ground. 2519 02:44:47.239 --> 02:44:49.840 Looking around, he spotted Jack and Boris in the distance, 2520 02:44:50.239 --> 02:44:53.879 still maintaining their winter storm diversion, though both appeared to 2521 02:44:53.959 --> 02:44:57.840 be tiring from the extended magical effort. Edmund used a 2522 02:44:57.879 --> 02:45:00.760 small signaling mirror from his pack to catch Jack's attention 2523 02:45:01.159 --> 02:45:04.840 with a flash of reflected light. The winter spirit noticed 2524 02:45:04.840 --> 02:45:08.920 it almost immediately, nudging Boreas and pointing toward Edmund's position. 2525 02:45:09.719 --> 02:45:12.079 Within minutes, the two winter spirits had made their way 2526 02:45:12.120 --> 02:45:15.799 to the ledge, letting their storm diversion gradually die down. 2527 02:45:16.799 --> 02:45:19.479 We need to hurry, Edmond told them as they slipped inside. 2528 02:45:20.079 --> 02:45:23.239 The ritual is already far advanced, and they know we're here. 2529 02:45:24.200 --> 02:45:28.840 Where's bart, Jack asked, looking around the small chamber. Still inside, 2530 02:45:29.360 --> 02:45:32.159 We got separated. I had to use a ventilation shaft 2531 02:45:32.200 --> 02:45:35.200 to reach the ritual chamber. He's waiting near the main doors. 2532 02:45:36.200 --> 02:45:38.639 Edmund quickly described what he had seen in the chamber 2533 02:45:38.920 --> 02:45:42.159 and the captives being drained to power the ritual. We 2534 02:45:42.280 --> 02:45:45.520 need to free those prisoners, Boreas said firmly, not just 2535 02:45:45.559 --> 02:45:48.079 to stop the ritual, but because it's the right thing 2536 02:45:48.200 --> 02:45:52.719 to do. Jack nodded in agreement. First we find Bart. 2537 02:45:53.280 --> 02:45:56.959 Then we breached the chamber together. Guided by Edmund, they 2538 02:45:57.040 --> 02:46:00.799 navigated back through the winding corridors. The citadel seemed to 2539 02:46:00.840 --> 02:46:05.120 be shifting subtly around them, passages changing configuration, as if 2540 02:46:05.159 --> 02:46:08.120 the fortress itself was alive and aware of their presence. 2541 02:46:08.879 --> 02:46:11.319 They found Bart hiding in an alcove near the main 2542 02:46:11.399 --> 02:46:14.879 doors to the ritual chamber. The Sasquatch looked relieved to 2543 02:46:14.920 --> 02:46:17.719 see them all safe. The guards have been coming and 2544 02:46:17.799 --> 02:46:21.959 going frequently, he reported. They're agitated. I think the ritual 2545 02:46:22.079 --> 02:46:25.639 is reaching some kind of climax it is, Edmund confirmed. 2546 02:46:26.200 --> 02:46:29.440 We need to get in there immediately. Direct confrontation seems 2547 02:46:29.479 --> 02:46:32.719 to be our only option now. Then let's make it count. 2548 02:46:32.879 --> 02:46:36.840 Jack said Frost, gathering around his hands. Marius and I 2549 02:46:36.920 --> 02:46:40.200 will lead with a cold front to disorient them. Bart 2550 02:46:40.760 --> 02:46:44.079 you break through their ranks with your physical strength, Edmund, 2551 02:46:44.520 --> 02:46:47.959 you focus on disrupting the central orb with your renewal magic. 2552 02:46:49.000 --> 02:46:52.120 They positioned themselves near the doors, preparing for what would 2553 02:46:52.280 --> 02:46:55.639 likely be the most challenging battle of their lives. The 2554 02:46:55.719 --> 02:46:59.079 corrupted renewal energy they would face was powerful, and the 2555 02:46:59.159 --> 02:47:04.079 shadow Lords there were ancient beings of considerable magical strength. Remember, 2556 02:47:04.239 --> 02:47:09.200 Edmund said quietly. Balance is our strength. Winter, wilderness and 2557 02:47:09.360 --> 02:47:13.319 renewal working in harmony. That's what the first egg showed me. 2558 02:47:13.959 --> 02:47:17.680 That's what they can't stand against. With a nod from Jack, 2559 02:47:18.040 --> 02:47:21.360 Boreas threw open the massive doors and the four allies 2560 02:47:21.520 --> 02:47:24.799 charged into the heart of the Shadow Court's power. The 2561 02:47:24.879 --> 02:47:28.079 Shadow Court was waiting for them. As the four burst 2562 02:47:28.159 --> 02:47:31.440 into the vast ritual chamber, the chanting ceased and all 2563 02:47:31.520 --> 02:47:35.520 eyes turned toward the intruders. The central orb of corrupted 2564 02:47:35.680 --> 02:47:39.879 energy pulsed more rapidly, sending waves of disorienting power through 2565 02:47:39.920 --> 02:47:43.799 the room. Welcome, said the central shadow Lord, its form 2566 02:47:43.879 --> 02:47:48.559 shifting between different nightmarish configurations. We so rarely have guests 2567 02:47:48.639 --> 02:47:52.760 in our humble realm, especially living ones, added another lord, 2568 02:47:53.079 --> 02:47:55.520 with what might have been a smile, though its face 2569 02:47:55.680 --> 02:47:59.319 was too fluid to be certain. Jack and Borius unleash 2570 02:47:59.399 --> 02:48:02.840 their plan cold front, a blast of winter magic that 2571 02:48:02.920 --> 02:48:07.079 swept across the chamber, crystallizing the very air and momentarily 2572 02:48:07.159 --> 02:48:11.879 disorienting the shadow beings. Bart charged forward with a thunderous roar, 2573 02:48:12.239 --> 02:48:16.280 scattering the nearest shadow knights like bowling pins. Edmond darted 2574 02:48:16.360 --> 02:48:19.959 between them, making directly for the central orb. If they 2575 02:48:20.000 --> 02:48:22.600 could disrupt the ritual focus, they might be able to 2576 02:48:22.639 --> 02:48:26.159 free the captives and stop the boundary dissolution. But the 2577 02:48:26.239 --> 02:48:29.879 shadow lords were prepared. With a casual gesture, the Leader 2578 02:48:29.959 --> 02:48:33.479 created a barrier of pure shadow that Edmund crashed into 2579 02:48:33.559 --> 02:48:37.879 at full speed, bouncing back stunned. Did you really think 2580 02:48:37.959 --> 02:48:40.760 it would be so easy? The Lord asked, its voice, 2581 02:48:40.799 --> 02:48:45.120 smooth as oil and sharp as broken glass, simultaneously, we 2582 02:48:45.239 --> 02:48:48.680 have worked for centuries to reach this moment. Four interlopers, 2583 02:48:49.000 --> 02:48:54.520 no matter how balanced, cannot hope to stop us. Around them, 2584 02:48:54.799 --> 02:48:58.040 the shadow beings regrouped, surrounding the four friends in a 2585 02:48:58.120 --> 02:49:02.200 tightening circle. The spirits in their orb prisons moaned in 2586 02:49:02.319 --> 02:49:06.399 silent despair, their energy continuing to feed the central ritual. 2587 02:49:07.319 --> 02:49:11.319 You're wrong, Jack declared, standing tall despite the oppressive shadow 2588 02:49:11.360 --> 02:49:14.959 magic pressing down on them. Balance is exactly what will 2589 02:49:14.959 --> 02:49:19.440 stop you. Your power comes from distortion and corruption, twisting 2590 02:49:19.559 --> 02:49:24.639 natural forces to serve unnatural ends. Natural scoffed the second 2591 02:49:24.680 --> 02:49:25.319 shadow Lord. 2592 02:49:25.879 --> 02:49:26.680 What is natural? 2593 02:49:27.440 --> 02:49:31.040 A convenient concept created by the strong to maintain their position. 2594 02:49:31.719 --> 02:49:36.799 We simply reinterpret the rules. The boundary between realms isn't 2595 02:49:36.799 --> 02:49:41.200 a rule, Edmund countered, it's a necessity. Without it, both 2596 02:49:41.280 --> 02:49:46.200 worlds collapse into chaos. Chaos is rebirth, the third Lord intoned. 2597 02:49:46.799 --> 02:49:49.920 From it, we will forge a new reality, one under 2598 02:49:49.959 --> 02:49:53.959 our guidance. Of course, as they spoke, the central orb 2599 02:49:54.079 --> 02:49:59.600 grew more unstable, its corrupted energy spiking violently. Reality itself 2600 02:49:59.600 --> 02:50:02.520 seemed to shudder around them, the walls of the chamber 2601 02:50:02.600 --> 02:50:07.399 occasionally becoming transparent, revealing glimpses of their normal world, bleeding 2602 02:50:07.479 --> 02:50:13.840 through forests, mountains, cities all overlapping with the twisted landscape 2603 02:50:13.879 --> 02:50:17.479 of the outer reaches. The merger has begun, announced the 2604 02:50:17.559 --> 02:50:21.520 first Lord, with evident satisfaction. Too late for your interference, 2605 02:50:22.399 --> 02:50:26.920 Bres stepped forward, his expression resolute. It's never too late 2606 02:50:26.959 --> 02:50:30.959 to correct a mistake, especially when I helped create. He 2607 02:50:31.040 --> 02:50:34.280 looked at his companions. Remember the pattern we use to 2608 02:50:34.319 --> 02:50:39.760 purge my corruption, the triangulation of balanced forces. Edmund's eyes 2609 02:50:39.879 --> 02:50:44.120 widened with understanding the same principle might work here on 2610 02:50:44.239 --> 02:50:47.840 a larger scale. We need to position ourselves around the 2611 02:50:48.000 --> 02:50:52.000 orb Jack realized, create a balanced counterpoint to their corruption. 2612 02:50:52.840 --> 02:50:57.200 But the barrier Bart began will fall, Boras assured him, 2613 02:50:57.680 --> 02:51:00.520 because I know how it's constructed. He turned to the 2614 02:51:00.600 --> 02:51:04.639 shadow lords. You showed me yourselves. Remember when you were 2615 02:51:04.680 --> 02:51:08.079 teaching me to channel the corruption. Your barriers are strong 2616 02:51:08.120 --> 02:51:12.600 against direct assault, but vulnerable to resonant frequencies of opposing magic. 2617 02:51:13.719 --> 02:51:18.840 The central Lord's shifting face registered surprise, then anger, traitor, 2618 02:51:19.600 --> 02:51:22.920 you would turn our own teachings against us. I would 2619 02:51:23.000 --> 02:51:26.840 restore balance, beres corrected, as is my duty as a 2620 02:51:26.879 --> 02:51:31.040 winter spirit. While the Lord's attention was focused on Bereus, 2621 02:51:31.520 --> 02:51:34.079 Jack had been subtly creating a pattern of frost on 2622 02:51:34.159 --> 02:51:38.280 the floor, an intricate mondala of ice crystals that formed 2623 02:51:38.280 --> 02:51:42.360 a perfect counterpoint to the shadow barrier's energy signature. At 2624 02:51:42.399 --> 02:51:45.719 Bereus's nod, he completed the pattern with a final flourish. 2625 02:51:46.520 --> 02:51:51.120 The barrier shimmered, then dissolved like mist in morning. Sunlight now, 2626 02:51:51.319 --> 02:51:55.200 Edmund shouted. The four friends dashed forward, each taking a 2627 02:51:55.239 --> 02:51:58.719 position around the central orb. The shadow beings moved to 2628 02:51:58.799 --> 02:52:02.280 intercept them, but too late they had achieved their formation. 2629 02:52:03.239 --> 02:52:07.079 Bart stood for wilderness, Jack for natural winter, Bereus for 2630 02:52:07.159 --> 02:52:12.120 regulated cold, and Edmond for renewal. Join hands, Edmund directed. 2631 02:52:12.879 --> 02:52:15.559 They reached toward each other, forming a square around the 2632 02:52:15.600 --> 02:52:20.200 corrupted orb, where their energies connected. Lines of pure balanced 2633 02:52:20.280 --> 02:52:25.319 magic formed green wilderness energy, white winter magic, and golden 2634 02:52:25.399 --> 02:52:28.479 renewal power, weaving together into a harmonious hole. 2635 02:52:29.520 --> 02:52:30.200 What are you doing? 2636 02:52:30.319 --> 02:52:34.239 Demanded the central lord, actual fear creeping into its discordant 2637 02:52:34.319 --> 02:52:38.200 voice for the first time, stop them. Shadow Knights and 2638 02:52:38.239 --> 02:52:41.440 scouts surged forward, but they could not penetrate the growing 2639 02:52:41.559 --> 02:52:45.719 field of balanced energy. Where Shadow touched the harmonized magic, 2640 02:52:46.079 --> 02:52:51.280 it simply dissipated, unable to maintain its corrupted form. The captives, 2641 02:52:51.440 --> 02:52:55.920 Edmond urged focus on freeing them first. Together, they directed 2642 02:52:55.959 --> 02:52:59.440 their combined energy toward the hundreds of orb prisons surrounding 2643 02:52:59.479 --> 02:53:03.680 the chamber. The balanced magic flowed like water, seeking out 2644 02:53:03.719 --> 02:53:07.840 distortion and corruption and neutralizing it one by one. The 2645 02:53:07.920 --> 02:53:13.319 shadow orbs containing captive spirits cracked then shattered, releasing their prisoners. 2646 02:53:14.159 --> 02:53:17.799 The freed spirits, weak but jubilant, added their own magic 2647 02:53:17.879 --> 02:53:22.239 to the growing field of balance. Nature spirits contributed earth energy, 2648 02:53:22.680 --> 02:53:27.680 water nymphs added fluidity, Fire elementals brought transformation, and air 2649 02:53:27.760 --> 02:53:32.680 being's contributed clarity. The snow Leopard Guardian, once freed, added 2650 02:53:32.680 --> 02:53:36.639 its powerful protective magic to the mix. The Shadow Lords 2651 02:53:36.680 --> 02:53:41.159 grew increasingly desperate, pouring more corrupted power into their ritual orb, 2652 02:53:41.639 --> 02:53:45.319 trying to accelerate the boundary dissolution before their energy source 2653 02:53:45.440 --> 02:53:50.159 was completely cut off. The chamber trembled with conflicting magical forces. 2654 02:53:50.719 --> 02:53:54.280 Reality itself stretched to breaking point between order and chaos. 2655 02:53:55.200 --> 02:53:59.040 Its working bereas called over the rising magical tumult. The 2656 02:53:59.079 --> 02:54:03.159 boundary is stable, lizing in places. Indeed, the glimpses of 2657 02:54:03.239 --> 02:54:06.760 their world visible through the chamber walls were becoming less frequent, 2658 02:54:07.399 --> 02:54:11.959 the natural separation between realms reasserting itself, but the central 2659 02:54:12.079 --> 02:54:15.079 orb is still active. Jack pointed out, we need to 2660 02:54:15.159 --> 02:54:19.280 neutralize it directly. Edmund studied the pulsing corruption at the 2661 02:54:19.360 --> 02:54:23.280 center of their formation. The orb contains the twisted renewal 2662 02:54:23.399 --> 02:54:26.600 energy I sensed before the same power they used to 2663 02:54:26.680 --> 02:54:29.399 corrupt the Egg of Renewal. If I can reach its 2664 02:54:29.479 --> 02:54:32.399 core with pure renewal magic, I might be able to 2665 02:54:32.440 --> 02:54:37.719 trigger a reversion too dangerous, Bart objected, the concentrated corruption 2666 02:54:37.799 --> 02:54:41.719 would overwhelm you. Not if we all go together, Edmond insisted, 2667 02:54:42.200 --> 02:54:46.840 our balanced magic should provide enough protection. The central shadow Lord, 2668 02:54:46.959 --> 02:54:51.399 sensing their intentions, grew desperate enough of this. If we 2669 02:54:51.520 --> 02:54:54.799 cannot have a controlled merger, then let it be uncontrolled. 2670 02:54:55.639 --> 02:54:59.120 With a terrifying gesture, it plunged its shadowy form directly 2671 02:54:59.200 --> 02:55:03.680 into the Ritual Orb. The effect was catastrophic. The Orb's 2672 02:55:03.680 --> 02:55:07.559 surface turned pitch black, its corrupted energy now infused with 2673 02:55:07.639 --> 02:55:11.520 the essence of the shadow Lord itself. The remaining lords 2674 02:55:11.559 --> 02:55:14.639 followed suit, diving into the Orb to add their power 2675 02:55:14.760 --> 02:55:19.000 to the desperate gambit. They're forcing a total collapse, Borria 2676 02:55:19.079 --> 02:55:22.239 shouted over the howling magical winds that now tore through 2677 02:55:22.280 --> 02:55:25.959 the chamber. If the boundary fails all at once, both 2678 02:55:26.040 --> 02:55:29.920 realms will be destroyed. Then we have no choice, Edmund 2679 02:55:29.959 --> 02:55:34.799 decided grimly. We must enter the Orb ourselves. That's suicide. 2680 02:55:34.879 --> 02:55:38.239 Jack protested. If we maintain our balance, we might survive. 2681 02:55:38.479 --> 02:55:43.440 Edmund countered, besides, what choice do we have? Bart looked 2682 02:55:43.440 --> 02:55:46.719 at his friends, these unlikely allies who had become so 2683 02:55:46.920 --> 02:55:50.239 dear to him in such a short time together. Then 2684 02:55:50.959 --> 02:55:55.319 all the way, they strengthened their connected hands, their combined 2685 02:55:55.399 --> 02:55:59.559 aura of balanced magic glowing ever brighter around them. Then 2686 02:56:00.040 --> 02:56:03.879 as one, they stepped forward into the corrupted Orb. The 2687 02:56:04.000 --> 02:56:10.000 sensation was indescribable, like being simultaneously frozen, burned, crushed, and 2688 02:56:10.120 --> 02:56:14.280 torn apart. Corruption assaulted them from all sides, trying to 2689 02:56:14.319 --> 02:56:17.920 seep into their essence and twist their very beings. Only 2690 02:56:18.000 --> 02:56:21.840 their connected magic kept them intact, a small island of 2691 02:56:21.920 --> 02:56:25.280 balance in an ocean of chaos. At the core of 2692 02:56:25.319 --> 02:56:28.760 the orb, they found the three Shadow Lords, now merged 2693 02:56:28.799 --> 02:56:33.079 into a single entity of concentrated darkness. Around this central 2694 02:56:33.120 --> 02:56:36.520 figure swirled the last of the captive energies, the final 2695 02:56:36.600 --> 02:56:40.520 power source for their boundary breaking ritual, You are too late, 2696 02:56:40.719 --> 02:56:44.239 the merged Lord spoke directly into their minds. The process 2697 02:56:44.319 --> 02:56:49.079 cannot be reversed. The boundaries fall even now. Through the 2698 02:56:49.120 --> 02:56:52.760 swirling corruption, they could indeed see the walls between worlds 2699 02:56:52.840 --> 02:56:56.719 thinning to transparency, their realm and the outer reaches bleeding 2700 02:56:56.799 --> 02:57:00.760 into each other. More completely with each passing moment. We 2701 02:57:00.879 --> 02:57:05.399 need more power. Edmund realized something primal, something fundamental to 2702 02:57:05.520 --> 02:57:09.760 restoration and balance. As he spoke, he felt a familiar 2703 02:57:09.840 --> 02:57:13.719 presence touch his mind, the same consciousness that had communicated 2704 02:57:13.760 --> 02:57:17.639 with him before, the first egg, reaching across the boundary 2705 02:57:17.680 --> 02:57:20.920 from the heart Warren. It's trying to help us, Edmond 2706 02:57:20.959 --> 02:57:24.559 told the others. The first egg. It's offering its power, 2707 02:57:25.079 --> 02:57:28.440 but we need to channel it properly. Bart, whose connection 2708 02:57:28.600 --> 02:57:32.680 to wilderness made him especially sensitive to natural patterns, suggested 2709 02:57:33.200 --> 02:57:37.239 a recursive balance, each of us representing our aspect but 2710 02:57:37.399 --> 02:57:41.559 also incorporating elements of the others complete harmony rather than 2711 02:57:41.600 --> 02:57:47.879 separate powers. Working together, they understood immediately, still maintaining physical contact, 2712 02:57:48.200 --> 02:57:52.680 they adjusted their magical output. Jack and Borius integrated aspects 2713 02:57:52.719 --> 02:57:57.079 of wilderness and renewal into their winter magic. Bart incorporated 2714 02:57:57.159 --> 02:58:01.760 winner's preservation and renewal's growth into his wilderness energy. Edmund 2715 02:58:01.799 --> 02:58:06.079 balanced his renewal magic with winter's necessary rest and wilderness's 2716 02:58:06.239 --> 02:58:11.000 untamed vitality. As they achieved this deeper harmony, a golden 2717 02:58:11.120 --> 02:58:14.280 light appeared at the center of their formation, a small, 2718 02:58:14.680 --> 02:58:17.840 perfect egg shape that matched the first egg in the heart. 2719 02:58:17.920 --> 02:58:18.239 Worn. 2720 02:58:19.159 --> 02:58:21.920 Though physically distant, its essence had found a way through 2721 02:58:21.959 --> 02:58:26.239 the thinning boundary drawn by their perfect balance. The Merged 2722 02:58:26.399 --> 02:58:28.440 shadow Lords recoiled from this light. 2723 02:58:29.239 --> 02:58:29.680 What is this? 2724 02:58:30.360 --> 02:58:34.000 The first egg cannot manifest here, Not the egg itself, 2725 02:58:34.159 --> 02:58:38.399 Edmund corrected, but its fundamental principle, the original balance from 2726 02:58:38.440 --> 02:58:43.040 which all renewal springs. With a surge of coordinated will, 2727 02:58:43.440 --> 02:58:46.239 the four directed this primal energy toward the heart of 2728 02:58:46.319 --> 02:58:51.399 the corruption. The golden light expanded, engulfing first them, then 2729 02:58:51.479 --> 02:58:55.479 the Merged shadow Lords, and finally the entire orb itself. 2730 02:58:56.319 --> 02:58:59.879 For a moment, everything went white. When their vision cleared, 2731 02:59:00.000 --> 02:59:04.120 they found themselves still within the orb, but transformed. The 2732 02:59:04.200 --> 02:59:07.879 corruption had been neutralized, replaced by a balanced energy that 2733 02:59:07.959 --> 02:59:11.079 continued to pulse, but now with the natural rhythm of 2734 02:59:11.200 --> 02:59:16.079 season's changing of wilderness thriving of renewal in its proper cycle, 2735 02:59:16.959 --> 02:59:20.239 the Shadow Lords have been separated once more, their forms 2736 02:59:20.319 --> 02:59:24.799 now translucent and greatly diminished, they drifted within the transformed 2737 02:59:25.000 --> 02:59:26.719 Orb like smoke caught in glass. 2738 02:59:27.719 --> 02:59:28.399 What have you done? 2739 02:59:28.479 --> 02:59:31.799 Demanded the Central Lord, its voice now barely a whisper. 2740 02:59:32.719 --> 02:59:37.559 Restored balance, Edmund explained simply, the boundary remains as it must, 2741 02:59:38.319 --> 02:59:41.840 but we've purged the corruption from the ritual energy. You've 2742 02:59:41.879 --> 02:59:46.639 destroyed centuries of work, another lord accused weakly. Borius spoke up, 2743 02:59:47.040 --> 02:59:51.440 his voice, firm but not unkind. No, you've been trapped 2744 02:59:51.440 --> 02:59:55.399 in shadows so long you've forgotten. Balance doesn't mean destruction. 2745 02:59:56.200 --> 03:00:00.799 Your essence remains but cleansed. The outer reach will continue 2746 03:00:00.840 --> 03:00:04.760 to exist as they should, separate but connected to our world. 2747 03:00:06.520 --> 03:00:09.239 Stay tuned for more sasquatchy otta see, will be right back. 2748 03:00:09.360 --> 03:00:19.000 After these messages, improper proportion, Jack added, neither realm dominating 2749 03:00:19.079 --> 03:00:23.680 the other, the Orb began to shrink, the excess energy dissipating. 2750 03:00:23.719 --> 03:00:28.000 As the unnatural ritual reversed itself. The walls between worlds 2751 03:00:28.159 --> 03:00:31.840 solidified once more, the glimpses of their home realm fading 2752 03:00:31.920 --> 03:00:36.280 as proper separation was restored. The shadow lords, now little 2753 03:00:36.319 --> 03:00:39.040 more than wisps, were drawn back into the depths of 2754 03:00:39.079 --> 03:00:43.159 the outer reaches as the Orb contracted. Their final expressions 2755 03:00:43.200 --> 03:00:47.280 were not of anger, but of bewilderment and perhaps just 2756 03:00:47.399 --> 03:00:52.520 perhaps a hint of relief. When the Orb finally collapsed entirely, 2757 03:00:53.040 --> 03:00:55.399 the four friends found themselves standing in the center of 2758 03:00:55.440 --> 03:00:59.360 the ritual chamber, which was rapidly losing its impossible dimensions. 2759 03:01:00.200 --> 03:01:02.959 The captive spirits had all been freed, and the shadow 2760 03:01:03.000 --> 03:01:06.120 beings that had served the court were scattered, their purpose 2761 03:01:06.280 --> 03:01:07.520 lost with the failure of. 2762 03:01:07.559 --> 03:01:08.479 The grand ritual. 2763 03:01:09.440 --> 03:01:13.040 We did it, Edmund breathed, hardly daring to believe their success. 2764 03:01:13.920 --> 03:01:18.200 The boundary is restored. Boreus confirmed his winter senses, detecting 2765 03:01:18.239 --> 03:01:22.799 the proper separation between realms, and strengthened. I think the 2766 03:01:22.879 --> 03:01:27.479 balanced energy we channeled has reinforced the natural divisions. Then 2767 03:01:27.520 --> 03:01:30.520 it's time to go home, Bart suggested, as the citadel 2768 03:01:30.559 --> 03:01:34.159 around them began to crumble, its inverted architecture no longer 2769 03:01:34.200 --> 03:01:40.319 sustainable without the Shadow Lord's constant power. Jack nodded in agreement. Quickly, 2770 03:01:40.639 --> 03:01:43.959 before the way back closes, boundary crossings will be sealing 2771 03:01:44.000 --> 03:01:47.799 as the natural order reasserts itself. They raced through the 2772 03:01:47.879 --> 03:01:52.760 disintegrating fortress, the once mighty inverted citadel now collapsing into 2773 03:01:52.799 --> 03:01:56.959 its component shadows. The few remaining shadow beings they encountered 2774 03:01:57.000 --> 03:02:00.639 fled rather than confronting them, sensing the fundamental change in 2775 03:02:00.680 --> 03:02:03.879 the balance of power. They reached the black Ice arch 2776 03:02:04.159 --> 03:02:07.680 just as the citadel completely dissolved behind them. The arch 2777 03:02:07.760 --> 03:02:11.200 itself was already beginning to fade, the stable crossing point 2778 03:02:11.280 --> 03:02:14.840 becoming just another section of the boundary. Now or never, 2779 03:02:15.000 --> 03:02:19.479 Jack urged together they stepped through the arch, experiencing once 2780 03:02:19.600 --> 03:02:24.719 more that wrenching discontinuity as they transitioned between realms. When 2781 03:02:24.799 --> 03:02:27.840 reality settled around them again, they stood once more in 2782 03:02:27.920 --> 03:02:30.920 the crystalline amphitheater on the edge of the frost plains, 2783 03:02:31.479 --> 03:02:35.120 the black ice arch shrinking behind them until it vanished entirely. 2784 03:02:36.079 --> 03:02:39.040 They stood in silence for a long moment, absorbing the 2785 03:02:39.239 --> 03:02:42.639 enormity of what they had accomplished. The air around them 2786 03:02:42.719 --> 03:02:46.360 felt cleaner somehow, the natural magic of their world flowing 2787 03:02:46.399 --> 03:02:50.319 in its proper channels once more so. Bart finally said, 2788 03:02:50.840 --> 03:02:52.600 his deep voice, breaking the silence. 2789 03:02:53.360 --> 03:02:53.760 What now. 2790 03:02:54.959 --> 03:02:59.399 Edmund smiled, his pink eyes twinkling with new purpose. Now, 2791 03:02:59.479 --> 03:03:03.159 my friends, we go home. There's much to do a 2792 03:03:03.280 --> 03:03:07.760 new chapter of cooperation between magical traditions, to establish bridges, 2793 03:03:07.799 --> 03:03:12.040 to build between communities long separated, and winter to prepare. 2794 03:03:12.200 --> 03:03:15.719 Jack added, with a grin, a proper balanced winner that 2795 03:03:15.879 --> 03:03:19.760 knows its place in the cycle. I'd like that beres agreed, 2796 03:03:20.319 --> 03:03:23.559 his expression peaceful for perhaps the first time in centuries, 2797 03:03:24.360 --> 03:03:27.680 to create winter beauty that sets the stage for springs renewal, 2798 03:03:28.239 --> 03:03:31.879 rather than fighting against it. As they began their long 2799 03:03:32.000 --> 03:03:35.600 journey back across the frost plains, Bart found himself marveling 2800 03:03:35.639 --> 03:03:39.479 at the strange turns his life had taken from solitary 2801 03:03:39.559 --> 03:03:42.680 hermit to world saving hero in the span of little 2802 03:03:42.760 --> 03:03:46.360 more than a week, and more importantly, from lonely observer 2803 03:03:46.559 --> 03:03:49.959 to connected participant in the magical world that had always 2804 03:03:50.000 --> 03:03:54.360 surrounded him. Edmund, he said, as they walked that business 2805 03:03:54.440 --> 03:03:56.760 with the first egg, you said, it reached out to 2806 03:03:56.920 --> 03:04:01.520 us from the heart warren. The rabbit nodded, yes. Its 2807 03:04:01.600 --> 03:04:05.360 consciousness touched mine, touched all of ours. I think in 2808 03:04:05.479 --> 03:04:09.079 that critical moment, its power flowed through the thinning boundary 2809 03:04:09.159 --> 03:04:13.399 to help us restore balance. Does that happen often? Bart wondered, 2810 03:04:14.000 --> 03:04:18.360 the first egg intervening directly, never in all recorded history. 2811 03:04:18.760 --> 03:04:20.239 Edmund admitted, I. 2812 03:04:20.280 --> 03:04:24.319 Believe it, since something special in our unlikely alliance winter, 2813 03:04:24.760 --> 03:04:29.600 wilderness and renewal working in perfect harmony. He smiled up 2814 03:04:29.600 --> 03:04:32.600 at his sasquatch friend. Perhaps it was waiting for just 2815 03:04:32.680 --> 03:04:38.440 such a combination. Jack, overhearing this conversation, chimed in, So 2816 03:04:38.559 --> 03:04:41.280 what you're saying is that the Easter Bunny, Jack, Frost, 2817 03:04:41.399 --> 03:04:44.799 and Sasquatch saved the world together. That's going to make 2818 03:04:44.879 --> 03:04:48.920 quite a story, the best kind. Borius agreed, one that 2819 03:04:49.040 --> 03:04:53.360 children might someday hear and almost believe. Speaking of children, 2820 03:04:53.520 --> 03:04:57.360 Edmund said thoughtfully, Easter was just the beginning. There are 2821 03:04:57.440 --> 03:05:00.959 other celebrations, other moments of renewal throughout the year that 2822 03:05:01.000 --> 03:05:04.840 could benefit from our combined touch. What are you suggesting, 2823 03:05:04.959 --> 03:05:10.479 Bard asked, intrigued, Edmund's expression grew animated. A council not 2824 03:05:10.680 --> 03:05:13.760 just for seasons, like the existing seasonal Council, but for 2825 03:05:13.879 --> 03:05:17.520 all aspects of the natural world and its celebrations. A 2826 03:05:17.600 --> 03:05:21.959 balance council where winter, wilderness, renewal, and other forces can 2827 03:05:22.040 --> 03:05:27.079 coordinate rather than compete. Ambitious Jack noted with approval, but 2828 03:05:27.200 --> 03:05:30.079 after what we've accomplished today, I'd say we've earned the 2829 03:05:30.159 --> 03:05:33.879 right to think big. As they continued their journey homeward, 2830 03:05:34.280 --> 03:05:38.479 plans and possibilities unfolded between them. The shadow threat had 2831 03:05:38.520 --> 03:05:43.239 been neutralized, the boundary restored, and balance re established. But 2832 03:05:43.360 --> 03:05:47.239 perhaps most significantly, four very different beings had discovered that 2833 03:05:47.319 --> 03:05:51.399 their differences, rather than dividing them, created a harmony greater 2834 03:05:51.520 --> 03:05:54.959 than any could achieve. A loan back in the heart warrant. 2835 03:05:55.239 --> 03:05:58.879 Unbeknownst to them, yet the first egg glowed with renewed vigor, 2836 03:05:59.319 --> 03:06:02.399 its plain white shell now bearing the faintest tracings of 2837 03:06:02.479 --> 03:06:07.719 a pattern, a perfect mandala representing winter, wilderness and renewal 2838 03:06:07.799 --> 03:06:11.840 in harmonious balance. A new cycle had begun, a new 2839 03:06:11.879 --> 03:06:15.719 story was unfolding, and somewhere in the mundane world, a 2840 03:06:15.840 --> 03:06:18.639 child would wake on Easter morning to find a particularly 2841 03:06:18.719 --> 03:06:23.239 special egg, one decorated with the unlikely image of a sasquatch, 2842 03:06:23.639 --> 03:06:27.159 a rabbit and two winter spirits standing together in friendship. 2843 03:06:28.120 --> 03:06:32.360 The clearing and whisperwood forest was transformed. Lanterns hung from 2844 03:06:32.360 --> 03:06:35.719 the lower branches of the ancient trees, casting a warm 2845 03:06:35.799 --> 03:06:39.760 glow over the gathered assembly. A long table laden with 2846 03:06:39.879 --> 03:06:43.760 food and drink stretched across one side, while comfortable seating 2847 03:06:43.879 --> 03:06:47.120 arranged in a circle occupied the center. It was an 2848 03:06:47.239 --> 03:06:51.719 unusual gathering by any standard. Rabbits in formal attire mingled 2849 03:06:51.760 --> 03:06:57.120 with winter spirits, nature elementals chatted with woodland creatures. Seasonal 2850 03:06:57.159 --> 03:07:01.520 representatives from all four quadrants shared storreorries and laughter, and 2851 03:07:01.639 --> 03:07:04.159 presiding over it all. Seated at the head of the 2852 03:07:04.239 --> 03:07:07.559 circle were the four heroes whose actions one year ago 2853 03:07:08.000 --> 03:07:11.920 had saved both realms from catastrophe. Edmund, dressed in his 2854 03:07:12.040 --> 03:07:15.520 finest waistcoat with golden buttons, called the meeting to order 2855 03:07:15.600 --> 03:07:18.120 with a gentle tap of his paw against a crystal bell. 2856 03:07:19.000 --> 03:07:22.760 The diverse assembly quieted, all eyes, turning to the easter 2857 03:07:22.879 --> 03:07:28.159 bunny with respect friend's colleagues, esteemed representatives of the magical traditions. 2858 03:07:28.280 --> 03:07:32.760 Edmund began, his voice, carrying clearly through the clearing, Welcome 2859 03:07:32.840 --> 03:07:36.040 to the first annual gathering of the Balance Council. One 2860 03:07:36.120 --> 03:07:39.799 year ago, our worlds faced their greatest threat, the near 2861 03:07:39.840 --> 03:07:44.200 dissolution of the boundary between realms. Today we celebrate not 2862 03:07:44.360 --> 03:07:46.959 just our victory over that threat, but the new era 2863 03:07:47.120 --> 03:07:51.719 of cooperation it has inspired. Murmurs of approval rippled through 2864 03:07:51.760 --> 03:07:55.799 the assembly. Jack Frost, sitting to Edmund's right, smiled as 2865 03:07:55.879 --> 03:07:59.760 he created small, beautiful snowflakes that drifted over the gathering 2866 03:07:59.760 --> 03:08:03.440 before for evaporating in the spring air, a demonstration of 2867 03:08:03.520 --> 03:08:07.239 winter's beauty and harmony with the season. The old divisions 2868 03:08:07.280 --> 03:08:11.799 between magical traditions have served us poorly. Edmund continued, winter 2869 03:08:11.920 --> 03:08:17.440 versus spring, wilderness versus civilization, order versus chaos. These false 2870 03:08:17.520 --> 03:08:21.239 dichotomies nearly allowed the Shadow Court to triumph. It was 2871 03:08:21.360 --> 03:08:25.719 only through balance and cooperation that we prevailed. Bereus, now 2872 03:08:25.840 --> 03:08:28.319 fully recovered and restored to his proper role as a 2873 03:08:28.360 --> 03:08:32.600 winter spirit, nodded in agreement. His once harsh demeanor had 2874 03:08:32.680 --> 03:08:36.319 softened considerably over the past year as he rediscovered the 2875 03:08:36.360 --> 03:08:40.799 beauty of balanced winner rather than domination. The Balance Council 2876 03:08:40.920 --> 03:08:44.680 represents a new approach. Edmund continued, Equal voices from all 2877 03:08:44.760 --> 03:08:48.159 traditions working together to maintain the harmony of our world, 2878 03:08:48.799 --> 03:08:52.159 and none exemplify this principle better than our founding members. 2879 03:08:53.000 --> 03:08:57.079 He gestured to the three seated beside him, Jack, Frost, Bereus, 2880 03:08:57.479 --> 03:09:01.639 and of course Bart. The Sasquatch. The gentle giant looked 2881 03:09:01.719 --> 03:09:04.120 much the same as he had a year ago, though 2882 03:09:04.159 --> 03:09:06.639 his traditional fur vest had been replaced with one of 2883 03:09:06.760 --> 03:09:10.959 finer quality, adorned with subtle symbols representing his role as 2884 03:09:11.040 --> 03:09:15.879 wilderness ambassador. Bart, Edmund said, warmly, would you share your 2885 03:09:15.959 --> 03:09:20.159 report on the wilderness regions The Sasquatch rose to his 2886 03:09:20.239 --> 03:09:24.360 impressive height, yet his demeanor remained humble. Those who had 2887 03:09:24.399 --> 03:09:27.719 known him before noted how he had changed, Still quiet 2888 03:09:27.840 --> 03:09:31.360 and thoughtful, but no longer hiding. He had found his 2889 03:09:31.520 --> 03:09:35.280 voice and his place in the larger community. The wilderness 2890 03:09:35.360 --> 03:09:39.479 is thriving, Bart reported, his deep voice resonating through the clearing. 2891 03:09:40.319 --> 03:09:44.079 With proper balance between the seasons, the natural cycles have strengthened, 2892 03:09:44.680 --> 03:09:48.040 the ancient forests are showing signs of healing from human damage, 2893 03:09:48.479 --> 03:09:51.959 and the magical pathways between remote regions have been restored. 2894 03:09:53.079 --> 03:09:55.520 He gestured to a group of rugged looking beings at 2895 03:09:55.559 --> 03:09:59.040 the edge of the gathering, other cryptids and wilderness spirits 2896 03:09:59.040 --> 03:10:02.440 who had emerged from hiding over the past year, inspired 2897 03:10:02.479 --> 03:10:06.479 by Bart's example. Most importantly, more of my kind have 2898 03:10:06.600 --> 03:10:09.959 joined our efforts. Creatures long thought to be mere legend 2899 03:10:10.000 --> 03:10:13.159 are finding their place in the balance. The wilderness is 2900 03:10:13.239 --> 03:10:16.319 no longer separate from the magical community, but an integral 2901 03:10:16.399 --> 03:10:20.000 part of it. Appreciative murmurs followed his report. As he 2902 03:10:20.079 --> 03:10:24.319 returned to his seat. Jack Frost rose next a crystalline 2903 03:10:24.360 --> 03:10:27.120 staff in his hand, a symbol of his position on 2904 03:10:27.200 --> 03:10:31.040 both the seasonal Council and the balance Council. Winter has 2905 03:10:31.079 --> 03:10:33.479 found its proper place in the cycle, he reported with 2906 03:10:33.559 --> 03:10:37.440 a smile. Bereus and I have reorganized the winter spirits, 2907 03:10:37.879 --> 03:10:43.079 emphasizing cooperation rather than competition with spring. The transition between 2908 03:10:43.200 --> 03:10:47.520 seasons now flows naturally, without the discord that once characterized it. 2909 03:10:48.639 --> 03:10:51.120 He created a beautiful ice sculpture in the center of 2910 03:10:51.159 --> 03:10:55.079 the gathering with a casual gesture, a perfect representation of 2911 03:10:55.159 --> 03:10:58.920 the four seasons flowing into each other in harmony. And 2912 03:10:58.959 --> 03:11:01.840 I'm pleased to report that our coordination with Edmund's Easter 2913 03:11:01.959 --> 03:11:06.239 operations this year was flawless. Not a single delivery route 2914 03:11:06.319 --> 03:11:10.520 was impeded by unexpected winter weather. Laughter rippled through the 2915 03:11:10.600 --> 03:11:14.719 gathering at this particularly from the Rabbit contingent, who remembered 2916 03:11:14.799 --> 03:11:18.399 all too well the challenges of the previous year. Bereas 2917 03:11:18.399 --> 03:11:22.479 stood next his ice, blue eyes clear and focused. The 2918 03:11:22.559 --> 03:11:27.000 boundaries between realms remained strong, he reported. Our regular monitoring 2919 03:11:27.079 --> 03:11:30.799 shows no signs of weakness or shadow court influence. The 2920 03:11:30.879 --> 03:11:34.879 balanced magic we established has continued to strengthen the natural separation. 2921 03:11:35.920 --> 03:11:39.440 He hesitated, then added, more personally, and I want to 2922 03:11:39.479 --> 03:11:42.639 express my gratitude once more for the chance at redemption. 2923 03:11:43.440 --> 03:11:48.079 The shadow corruption nearly consumed me completely without your intervention. 2924 03:11:49.159 --> 03:11:52.600 He shook his head, unable to complete the thought. That's 2925 03:11:52.639 --> 03:11:56.639 what balance is about, Edmund said, kindly, not judgment or punishment, 2926 03:11:57.079 --> 03:12:01.959 but restoration and second chances. As the formal reports continued, 2927 03:12:02.319 --> 03:12:05.120 Bart found his mind wandering back to that fateful day 2928 03:12:05.200 --> 03:12:08.040 a year ago, when a curious set of footprints in 2929 03:12:08.120 --> 03:12:11.520 the late winter snow had led him to Edmund. How 2930 03:12:11.600 --> 03:12:14.959 different his life had been then. Centuries of solitude suddenly 2931 03:12:15.040 --> 03:12:19.159 transformed into purposeful connection. His cabin in the deep woods 2932 03:12:19.239 --> 03:12:22.360 remained his sanctuary, but it was no longer his prison. 2933 03:12:23.200 --> 03:12:27.520 Regular council meetings, diplomatic missions to other magical communities, and 2934 03:12:27.639 --> 03:12:31.840 his new role mentoring younger Sasquatches filled his days with meaning. 2935 03:12:32.600 --> 03:12:37.319 He had even cautiously established limited contact with certain trustworthy humans, 2936 03:12:38.040 --> 03:12:42.479 naturalists and conservationists who could help protect the wilderness without 2937 03:12:42.520 --> 03:12:47.120 exploiting its secrets. The Balance Council meeting continued well into 2938 03:12:47.200 --> 03:12:51.520 the evening, with representatives from various magical traditions presenting reports 2939 03:12:51.559 --> 03:12:56.000 and proposals. The spirit of cooperation was palpable, though not 2940 03:12:56.120 --> 03:13:00.760 without healthy debate and occasional disagreement. Balance after all, didn't 2941 03:13:00.840 --> 03:13:05.040 mean uniformity. As the formal proceedings concluded in the gathering 2942 03:13:05.120 --> 03:13:09.040 transition to a more social atmosphere, Edmund approached Bart with 2943 03:13:09.159 --> 03:13:13.120 two glasses of springsider. A penny for your thoughts, old friend, 2944 03:13:13.200 --> 03:13:16.760 the Rabbit said, offering one of the glasses. You seemed 2945 03:13:16.799 --> 03:13:20.840 contemplative during the reports. Bart accepted the cider with a 2946 03:13:20.879 --> 03:13:24.079 grateful nod. I was just reflecting on how much has 2947 03:13:24.159 --> 03:13:27.319 changed in a year, from hiding in the shadows to 2948 03:13:27.399 --> 03:13:30.840 sitting on a council that governs magical balance. It's been 2949 03:13:30.920 --> 03:13:34.760 quite a journey, Edmund smiled, and to think it all 2950 03:13:34.840 --> 03:13:38.879 started with Easter being threatened. Speaking of which Bart said, 2951 03:13:39.360 --> 03:13:42.799 how did the egg deliveries go this year without crisis 2952 03:13:42.920 --> 03:13:48.040 and last minute interventions? I mean smoothly? Edmund reported with satisfaction, 2953 03:13:48.719 --> 03:13:51.159 though I must admit I rather missed having you and 2954 03:13:51.280 --> 03:13:53.879 Jack on the delivery team. You both had quite a 2955 03:13:53.959 --> 03:13:58.760 knack for it. Jack Frost, overhearing this as he approached grinned, 2956 03:13:59.440 --> 03:14:02.959 don't worry, Edmund. I'm sure some new magical crisis will 2957 03:14:03.000 --> 03:14:07.760 emerge eventually that requires unorthodox delivery methods. Let's hope not 2958 03:14:07.879 --> 03:14:11.840 too soon. Borres added, joining their small circle. I'm quite 2959 03:14:11.959 --> 03:14:16.639 enjoying the piece. The four stood together, their unlikely friendship 2960 03:14:16.760 --> 03:14:19.920 now the foundation of a new era. In magical cooperation. 2961 03:14:20.959 --> 03:14:25.520 Around them, the celebration continued, winter spirits dancing with spring nimphs, 2962 03:14:26.079 --> 03:14:30.840 woodland creatures, sharing stories with mountain guardians, rabbits, teaching traditional 2963 03:14:30.959 --> 03:14:34.520 dances to curious cryptids. Do you ever think about the 2964 03:14:34.600 --> 03:14:38.799 Shadow Court, Bart asked quietly, whether they might try again someday. 2965 03:14:39.959 --> 03:14:43.920 Edmund considered this thoughtfully. The court itself was diminished, but 2966 03:14:44.079 --> 03:14:48.639 not destroyed. Shadow like light, has its place in the balance. 2967 03:14:49.440 --> 03:14:52.319 But I believe they learned something from our encounter that 2968 03:14:52.440 --> 03:14:56.760 true power comes not from dominance, but from harmony. And 2969 03:14:56.879 --> 03:14:59.639 if they forget that lesson, Jack added, with a mischievous 2970 03:14:59.639 --> 03:15:02.239 spark in his eyes, the four of us will just 2971 03:15:02.360 --> 03:15:06.559 have to remind them again. Bereus raised his glass to 2972 03:15:06.719 --> 03:15:11.920 balance then, and to unlikely friendships to balance. The others echoed, 2973 03:15:12.360 --> 03:15:16.079 clinking their glasses together. As the night deepened and stars 2974 03:15:16.079 --> 03:15:20.719 appeared above Whisperwood Forest, magical beings of all traditions celebrated 2975 03:15:20.760 --> 03:15:23.319 together under the watchful eyes of the four who had 2976 03:15:23.360 --> 03:15:27.040 saved their world. The first egg safe in the heart, 2977 03:15:27.120 --> 03:15:31.360 worn glowed with peaceful light, the egg of renewal restored 2978 03:15:31.399 --> 03:15:34.840 to its proper function, pulsed with the rhythm of healthy seasons. 2979 03:15:35.559 --> 03:15:38.760 And somewhere in the human world, children dreamed of magical 2980 03:15:38.840 --> 03:15:42.159 beings who watched over the cycle of nature, a rabbit 2981 03:15:42.239 --> 03:15:46.159 who brought renewal, winter spirits who created beauty in the cold, 2982 03:15:46.680 --> 03:15:49.959 and perhaps even a gentle sasquatch who protected the wilderness. 2983 03:15:50.799 --> 03:15:53.799 Some stories, after all, are true, even if only the 2984 03:15:53.920 --> 03:15:55.239 children almost believe them. 2985 03:15:56.399 --> 03:15:56.840 The end 2986 03:16:55.079 --> 03:16:56.079 I didn't di