Chapter 2
A ripple of change went out through the realm of spirits. It was rare event, but all who felt it knew what it meant. A title had been passed on and rumors began to fly. What had happened? What change had occurred within their world?
Everyone was puzzled except Pitch. He snarled slightly as paced in his lair. "So, he picked his heir did he?" he muttered, darkly. He had a feeling it would come to this. It had been by sheer luck that he was able to eavesdrop on Samhain's old croons.
Those old hags were chatterboxes, but they wouldn't have discussed the issue so freely if they had known Pitch was lurking in the shadows nearby. Unbeknownst to them, Pitch spied on them from time to time. Most of their talk was rubbish: gossip, exchange of recipes, what new spells they were trying, nothing important. Pitch had hoped listening to their idle chatter would provide him a chance to snag his hands on Samhain's power, and it did.
Samhain was selecting an heir to pass on Halloween to. This was a rare chance and Pitch wasted no time to locate the old spirit once he heard the words leave the old woman's lips. Samhain was stubborn though and denied Pitch's request. In his outrage, Pitch had cast his new little spell on Samhain. He had been hopeful it would slow down Samhain until Pitch could devise another plan. Sadly, it seems Samhain did not give up easily, but there was still a chance.
The title of Halloween wouldn't become permanent on it's new bearer until the clock struck midnight on Halloween. All Pitch had to do was 'persuade' him or her to bequeath the title to him. He chuckled to himself as he snapped his fingers and a Nightmare appeared.
"Watch and follow the old hags," Pitch replied, "they're bound to mention the name on who the heir is or better yet, lead you to whoever it is."
The Nightmare gave a whiny before vanishing into the darkness.
"All I have to do now is wait," Pitch muttered, "and make sure the Guardians don't get involved." He snarled at the thought. Yes, getting the Guardians involved was the last thing he wanted.
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"I can't believe I need to live in the castle," Jack grumbled as he lay on the bed of his new room and buried his face into the black pillow. "This place is dark and creepy! It's so not me! Don't you agree, Phil?"
The yeti glanced around the room and mumbled as he nodded in agreement.
Jack sighed as he rolled on his back and glanced to his now two staffs: his trusty old staff and Halloween one he just gained. He still couldn't believe he had to do this, but there was no point dwelling on things he couldn't control.
"Thanks again for coming," Jack said as he looked to the yeti. "It's good to have someone around me that I know in this weird place."
Samhain had explained it was best for Jack to remain at the castle to prepare for Halloween. Even though it was August, there was apparently a lot to do and little time for Jack to learn. The Guardians wanted to stay, but Jack understood they couldn't. Tooth and Sandy had their own jobs to do, and North and Bunny couldn't stay with Jack and research for a new candidate at the same time.
Yet, North refused to leave Jack alone and promised he would send Phil over to keep the boy company. Phil had seemed almost relieved to get away from the workshop, which didn't surprise Jack. According to North, the elves had discovered the joy of painting and were craving to paint everything they could get their tiny hands on. Some of the yetis had been waking up to find their fur coats covered in paint. One of the elves had even started to use a makeup set and Phil didn't wish to find eyelashes stuck on his eyelids...again.
Phil wave at Jack, motioning it wasn't a problem as Tricks decided to hop onto Jack's bed and make his chest her new napping spot. Jack raised his head and smirked at the cat. "What am I? You're living pillow?" The cat said nothing as Jack scratched her ear and she purred happily. "Well, at least I get a cat," he muttered.
There was a sudden slow thud at the door and Frankie poked his head in. "Samhain, wants Jack downstairs."
Jack sighed as he sat up and was careful to hold onto to Tricks to keep her from falling over. "Duty calls," he mumbled to Phil as he set Tricks on the floor and went to fetch his staffs. He placed the winter staff onto his back with the leather holder Phil had made while Jack carried the Halloween staff in his other hand.
Jack would much rather be carrying his regular staff, but he needed at least one hand free and, as Phil pointed out, for the time being he was the spirit of Halloween. Thus, he needed to look the part. Jack grumbled to himself as he picked up the Halloween staff and then proceeded to follow Frankie into the hall.
Phil stayed close to Jack with a protective glint his eyes, but gave a spooked grunt as a bat flew over his head. Jack noticed Tricks was trailing after them not far after Phil. He glanced around as some of the skeletons servants passed them by without giving a second glance. "I'm not sure if I'll ever get use to this place," Jack whispered to Phil who responded with a comforting pat.
They climbed down a flight of stairs and into a chamber that felt more like a dungeon to Jack. Dusty, heavy chains hung off the wall and there were more spider webs down here than there were in the upper parts of the castle. It was damp, cold and dark. Honestly, it was a place Pitch probably would make into a second home if he could.
Samhain was in the middle of the chamber and seemed to be standing in front of a large coffin. "Jack, you here?" Samhain asked.
"Yeah, I'm here," Jack said as he entered. "What's up?"
"I've casted the spell to rid my eyes of this sand," Samhain said, "so I'm ready to take my two month nap."
Jack winced as he glanced to the coffin. "Can't you do this after Halloween is over? I rather have someone around who knows what I'm doing."
"I know," Samhain said with a nod, "but if Pitch tries something on Halloween, I be better help to you if I could see where I'm going." He reached his hand around until he found Jack's shoulder and patted it. "Don't worry, I'll be waking up on Halloween night, beside Frankie and the others will be here to lend a hand, especially Ursula. She'll know exactly what to do."
"Ursula?" Jack asked. "Who's that?"
Samhain suddenly gave a yawn. "Sorry, I can feel the spell taking effect. I need to get into that bed before I sleep standing up. Frankie, mind giving me a hand?"
Frankie nodded as he grabbed Samhain by his shoulders and steered him to the coffin.
"Why a coffin exactly?" Jack asked with his arms folded. "Wouldn't a bed be better? I thought coffins were more of a vampire's thing?"
"I was the formal spirit of Halloween, got to act the part," Samhain explained as Frankie assisted him into the coffin and took his wooden staff from him. "Besides, it's quiet down here and this is good for my stiff back."
I can't see how sleeping like a dead body is good for your back Jack thought.
Samhain laid back in the coffin and shut his eyes. "See you on Halloween," he said in a tired voice. "You'll..be...fine." Jack waited for Samhain to say more, but realized the old man was asleep as soft snores echoed throughout the dungeon.
"Well, great," Jack said as he rubbed the back of his neck. "What do we do now-"
Suddenly, a bell hanging by the door rang, but instead of a ring it cackled evilly and sent shivers down Jack's spine.
"Okay, what is that?!" Jack asked as he saw the sound had caused Phil to jump too. The only one who weren't frightened were Frankie and Tricks, who was busying cleaning her paws.
"Doorbell," Frankie said as he pointed up the stairs. "Witches are here."
Jack blinked. "Wait, did you say witches?" Frankie nodded He provided no more clarification before promptly stomped up the stairs. Tricks gave a meow as she trailed behind him and beckon Jack to come.
"Witches, of course," Jack muttered as he and Phil headed upwards. He just hoped they weren't the evil wicked witch type. He so didn't want to be turned into a frog.
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It hadn't taken Jack long to find the visitors. All he had to do was trace the source the cheerful cackling coming from the throne room. Frankie opened the door and gave a grunt as he looked in. "Too noisy, I come later," Frankie said as he turned and thumped away from the door.
Jack raised an eyebrow as he glanced up to Phil. "Should I be concern the big guy didn't want to be bothered with what's inside?"
Phil shrugged unsure as Tricks jumped up to rest on Jack's shoulders. The winter spirit sighed as he stroked Tricks's chin. "Here goes," he replied as he entered.
Three witches stood in the center and each was very different from each other. A tall witch who was as skinny as beanpole and had her hair neatly pinned was the first to notice Jack as she turned to him. "Well, who do we have here?" she asked in a suspicious. "A winter spirit and a yeti?"
The shortest of the witches, she was looked barely taller than Sandy, glanced over and adjusted her glasses as she raised a confused eyebrow. The third witch, who was curvy with short grey hair and had stripe scarf, chuckled as she spotted Jack.
"Oh! Oh!" she gasped as she pointed to the Halloween staff in Jack's hand with her broomstick. "Don't tell me! You're Samhain's heir? You must be if you're carrying that staff!"
"Uh, yeah," Jack said as he ran a hand through his hair and looked to the Halloween staff. "For the time being at least."
The witch cackled as she clapped her hands merrily and then shocked Jack by rushing over to him like she was his grandmother seeing him for the first time.
"Oh, you are so cute!" she cooed as she pinched Jack's cheek. "I never imagine the new spirit of Halloween would be so adorable."
Jack winced at the pinch and looked to Phil mouthing the words "help me," though, it proved unnecessary. The tall witch swatted the hand off Jack's cheek and stared crossly at her.
"Honestly, Rowana, he is not one of your grandchildren to fuss over. Act sensibly!" the tall witch scolded.
Rowana gave a pout. "But he's so cute," she muttered.
The tall witch sighed annoyed and then turned her sharp green eyes at Jack. "Excuse Rowana, she means well, but doesn't always use this amazing devices we call brains."
"Um...thanks," Jack said as he rubbed his cheek. "And you are?"
"Ursula," she said and gestured to the third witch, "and that is Corrine. Don't be offended if she doesn't speak to you. She doesn't like talking unless it's required."
Corrine offered a friendly smile as she waved to Jack.
"Reminds me of someone else I know," Jack replied as he waved back.
"I'm certain," Ursula replied. "Correct me if I'm mistaken, but are you not Jack Frost?" Jack answered with a nod and Ursula responded with a confused frown. "And Samhain picked you to take over Halloween? That doesn't make any sense, you're a winter spirit. Why would you be picked for a fall holiday?"
"That's what I and the other Guardians said," Jack replied as he folded his arms, "but I didn't know what else to do, so I took the title."
"I'm sure he has his reasons," Rowana replied as her fingers drummed on her broom handle. "He's not one to do things on a whim."
Ursula didn't seem convinced as she adjusted her large black hat. "Where is Samhain now?" Ursula asked. "It's rare for him to not greet us."
"Sleeping in that coffin of his," Jack said as Phil gestured to the stairs. "He's hoping he can sleep off that blind spell Pitch put on him."
"Pitch?" Ursula and Rowana exclaimed and Corrine stared wide eyed. "What do you mean?"
Jack exchanged a surprised expression with Phil. "So, you haven't heard?" Jack asked as Tricks snuggled into his neck and purred.
"The only thing we know is that Samhain had chosen an heir and he told us to come at this time to greet him or her," Rowana said, dropping her smile and now looked concern. "Dearie, did something happen?"
"That's one way of putting it," Jack replied, darkly.
"Please, enlightened us then," Corrine said softly, startling Jack as she stepped forward. "What happened?"
Jack quickly told them the story and he watch each of the witches frowned puzzled, although Ursula's frown resembled more of a scowl. "And he went to sleep leaving us to manage his duties for him," she summed up once Jack finished and pinched the bridge of her nose. "Unbelievable, what a mess. I keep telling Samhain he needs to be more organized."
"Who are you exactly?" Jack asked, hoping he would get some answers now.
"We're witches if you hadn't figured that out," Ursula said, "but more specifically, we give Samhain a hand on Halloween to ensure the mortals stay safe and keep the more rowdy spirits from crossing over."
Jack blinked as he folded his arms. Samhain did mention the 'ladies' would give Jack a hand. "Are there more of you? I didn't realize witches did that on Halloween."
"Oh, there are tons of us, Dear, but we three are more of the top commanders of the operation," Rowana said. "Granted, I believe we are more well known for making it fun for the children too." She giggled. "So much more memorable for them if they believe they saw a witch fly by on Halloween, don't you agree?"
Jack frowned, but gave a slow nod. For a kid to catch a glimpse of a witch would be like taking a peek at North on Christmas Eve or Bunny at Easter. "Yeah, I get what you're saying."
"In any case," Ursula said, "I take it Samhain hadn't had much time to explain things to you?"
Jack sighed and shook his head. "No, not really."
"Thought so," Ursula grumbled as she turned to the other witches, "Corrine, go fetch Frankie and inspect the progress on the pumpkin patch. Rowana, go check the inventory and see if we're running short on anything."
The witches gave a salutes before rushing off on their broomsticks as Ursula turned and meet her gaze with Phil. "I hear you yetis are good for sewing. Would you be able to make a new outfit for Jack? Preferably, fast."
Phil looked Jack over as he stroked his chin and gave a firm nod.
"Wait?! Outfit, I don't need a new outfit!" Jack said, firmly as he folded his arms over his chest and stomped his foot for emphasis. He liked his hoodie thank you very much.
"I mean no offense," Ursula said, firmly, but gently, "but this time of year a lot of spirits come to check in with Samhain with Halloween around the corner, and that includes far more witches. You're more likely to be taken seriously if you're dress the part." She folded her arms behind her back. "Unless, you enjoy having your cheeks pinched."
Jack froze at the comment and rubbed his cheek. "Not really."
"Then you'll new a new wardrobe," Ursula said, "and I might even recommend a mask when you're speaking to other spirits. You're very young and everyone might not agree with a boy becoming the new spirit of Halloween."
Jack rubbed his neck as he looked to Phil, but the yeti mumbled a reply in which Jack knew meant "Yeah, I agree with her. It's probably not a bad idea."
Jack sighed and nodded. "Can I at least avoid having to wear shoes?," he said, flexing his toes. "I can't stand anything on my feet."
Ursula gave a half smile. "I believe that can be arranged."
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Peeking in one of the castle windows, Pitch's Nightmare snorted at the sight of Jack being lead up stairs by the yeti and witch. Having seen enough, it gave a high pitched whinny before diving back into the shadows to inform his master of the news.
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Jack was relieved to see his new outfit wasn't as bad as he was fearing. He was afraid he be forced to wear something overly fancy or impractical like a robe that would cause him to trip. To his relief, Phil seemed to have taken Jack's tastes into account as he designed the outfit.
Jack still wore his pants, but instead of his hoodie he wore a long sleeve black shirt with a high collar. Over the shirt, Jack wore a hooded black cape with a bright green lining that made him reminiscent of the old brown cape he wore years ago. The outfit was finished off by a small pumpkin pin which Ursula pinned to his cape as Phil finished the mask.
"Hold still," Ursula scolded, "I've seen worms wiggle less than you do."
"I can't help it," Jack protested and was cut off as he felt a familiar body poke at his leg. "Hey, Tricks," Jack greeted as he glanced down to the cat. "Chasing mice were you?"
Trick meowed before she gave a purr and pawed at the cape.
"Tricks, stop. You'll tear it with your claws," Ursula said as she yanked the cape away. "Although, it is odd to see her so affectionate with a stranger."
"I don't know why she likes me so much," Jack said as Tricks snuggled into his side. "Most animals tend to think I'm too cold for them."
"She's an autumn cat," Ursula explained, as she adjusted the cape. "Unlike regular cats, she prefers if there's a chill in the air. I imagine she thinks you're the perfect person to have a nap on."
"Glad to be of service," Jack said with a smile as he glanced to Tricks. The cat looked up and gave a meow as Phil rose from the desk holding up the mask for Ursula's approval.
"That will do nicely," Ursula said as she took the mask and held it for Jack to see. It had a simple design. All Phill did was cut out a mask big enough to cover Jack's entire face, paint it orange, and took black paint to draw the nose and mouth. The eyes had been cut out in the same style so made it appear Jack had a smiling jack-.o-lantern for his face
Phil mumbled, asking Jack to slip it on and the boy complied. He tied the string around his head and let the mask drop over his face. "I can see fine," he answered, "but do I really need to wear this?"
"Pinched cheeks, remember?" Ursula warned, "not to mention the goblins and vampires are more likely to listen to you if they don't realize you're Jack Frost. Just give it a couple of centuries."
"I'm hoping not to be here that long," Jack replied as he looked to Ursula. "The other Guardians are trying to find someone who be a better fit to be the spirit of Halloween." He then blinked and looked to Ursula hopefully. "Hey, what about you? You really seem to be the one in charge around here."
"Thank you for the offer, but no," Ursula said, "I am quite happy being alone in blissful isolation in my cottage. Halloween requires someone who has more..shall we say energy for the job."
Jack sighed. He knew it wouldn't be that easy. "Can you think of anyone who would be?"
"I'll admit, I don't socialize a lot in the spirit world, so I'm afraid not," she then frowned puzzled, "still, I find it troubling Samhain choose you. It doesn't feel right."
"That's what North said," Jack replied as he said in the chair and Tricks decided it was time to bat at the curtain.
Ursula gave an understanding nod as she adjusted her own hat. "Speaking of such, how does he and the other Guardians plan to find a new heir?"
"North figure he go through his library," Jack replied, "with all his books there's got to be a name that would stand out." North had one of the biggest libraries Jack knew and the yetis were always updating it with the latest book of every kind.
Ursula seemed uncertain. "Books are all well and good, but if a proper candidate is a spirit that is even younger than yourself there might not be a book written about him or her yet."
Jack chewed his bottom lip as he fiddled with his cape. He hadn't thought of that and there was no guarantee even if they found someone that spirit would be willing to take it on. Phil seemed to sense Jack's worry and gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze.
"Thanks," Jack replied with a half smile.
Ursula patted Jack's shoulder. "For the time being Jack, let's go down and check on Corrine and Frankie. There's no point in sitting around and worrying when you can do nothing about it."
Jack nodded as he gripped the mask and glanced at the smiling face that would be staring back at him for the next few months.
"I hope the guys are making progress," Jack muttered.
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Halfway across the world, Bunny entered North's library and gave a half wave. "Ya find anythin'?"
The Guardian of Wonder glanced up from the book he was reading and judging from his solemn expression, Bunny already knew the answer. "Nothing," North answered as she shut the book and placed it back on the shelf. "Any spirit I think of either has their own holiday or would not be capable of handling Halloween."
"Or fightin' off Pitch," Bunny added as he picked up a book himself to look through. "I've asking around, but none of the spirits I talked too can think of anyone to recommend." He gave a shrug. "Maybe Jack is suppose ta be the new spirit of Halloween." It seemed an unlikely choice, but so far it did seem Jack was the most suitable spirit so far, as bizarre as it seemed.
"Neyt," North said as he climbed his ladder and picked another book. "As long as my belly says 'No' I will not believe it. Jack is winter spirit, it does not make sense."
"He does come out in the fall," Bunny reasoned, "but while he's mischievous, he doesn't enjoy scarin' people, even if it is for fun."
"Da," North replied as he stepped off the ladder with another book. "So, answer must be here, under noses. We just have to find it," he sighed as he sat in the chair. "I only hope Jack is alright."
Bunny gave a half smile as selected a book to read himself. "It was a good idea ta send Phil with him though, he'll keep the kid out of trouble. Besides, despite his looks, Jack does have common sense."
"You are right," North replied as he flipped the pages of the book, "but it is not Jack I worry about, but the other spirits he'll have to meet to get ready for Halloween."
"As long as Frostbite stays level headed he should be fine," Bunny remarked as he sat down, "but that only gives us more reason to work as fast as we can." His eyes narrowed. "It's only a matter of time before word gets to Pitch and we both know he's not goin' to take things layin' down."
North frowned and with even more determination read through the book.
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"Jack Frost!" Pitch's voice echoed throughout the caves and rattle the cages that hung above. "He's the new spirit of Halloween?!"
The Nightmare gave a nod as Pitch scowled and had to resist kicking the wall. "The old man has clearly lost it!" He started to pace. Wonderful! Just wonderful! Of all the spirits he could have chosen, why did it have to be Jack?! It would be impossible for Pitch to convince the boy to hand it over...or would it?
Pitch paused in mid-step as he gaze wandered to his globe. The boy was young and only had begun to understand his place in the world of spirits and among his position as Guardian. "Becoming the spirit of Halloween would be such a burden to have on one so young," Pitch muttered and grinned, "especially with the change that would come with it."
He chuckled amused to himself as a plan formed in his head. Of course, it was so simple. If Pitch played his cards right, Jack would gladly hand over the title. "Perhaps Jack was the best choice after all," Pitch said to his Nightmare, now his voice full of dreadful delight. "Oh, I shall enjoy watching this unfold for our young Guardian."