"That's it, Jamie! You're doing great!"

Jack was teaching his Prince how to correctly channel his element through the boy's staff. So far, his First Believer was showing himself to be a quick learner. Already he had learned how to shepherd a small blizzard, frost trees, and create flurries. Now the boy was learning one iof Jack's favorite uses for his staff...

Perching on it with flawless grace and perfect balance.

Thump!

"That's alright! Try again!" the Guardian of Fun chuckled merrily "You almost stayed on for a full minute!"

Jamie snorted as he reset the staff in the deep snow of the arctic, a wry smile on his face. "Look Jack, I know it's fun and all...but how is sitting on my staff going to be helpful in spreading Winter?"

Jack laughed "Well mister smarty pants, it just so happens that whilst you are spreading our season, you'll have to frost wires and telephone lines. That takes perfect balance, which, unfortunately, you don't have yet. Plus, it's fun, which is as good a reason as any in my book."

Jamie laughed "Of course you'd say that, Guardian of Fun. Alright, I'll try again."

He clambered up his conduit and perched on the hook, arms out slightly. He wobbled a bit, got control, and slowly and carefully rose to a standing position. He teetered, he tottered, and then, down he went.

Thump!

"Don't worry, you'll get it eventually." Jack said cheerily, helping the prince of Winter to his feet.

"Thanks Jack." The boy mumbled, head hanging. Jack put a finger under his chin and lifted his head.

:"Hey. What is that tone Kiddo? Have I ever lied to you?"

"Well, no."

"Ok then. Trust me. You'll get this soon enough! Now come on! I'll race you to the Pole, we've gotta show the gang what you've learned so far! And Bunny said I was a horrible teacher...poosh on the kangaroo.."

Jamie hesitated "Um Jack? Maybe we better not...I mean, North and Bunny might still be sore about...you know...what happened."

Jack sighed "Your death hit them pretty hard, especially North. I can't believe he still blames himself for what happened. You know he wouldn't even look me in the face after it happened?"

"He still thinks it's his fault you were delayed? Poor North."

Jack thought a minute then set his jaw "He has to face you sometime. Might as well be with some great news. Come on. To the Pole!"