The four friends' journey continues in the high elevation of the Forest of Wonder. But as they follow the path downward, they soon encounter a different landscape of chaparral, vast flat plains, abundant yucca trees, and giant cactus (saguaro). Loar and Roen are surprised and amazed at this new landscape, but it heightens their sense of being far from the lush forests of home. When the friends come to a canyon, they wonder how they can cross the rushing river below. Bear King is not sure he can climb down the steep path, even though Bobo Chico is eager to scramble downhill. Loar is sensitive to Bear King’s dilemma and suggests that he and Roen explore the nearby area for a safer alternative. But when the boys separate from the group, they get lost and encounter Clumenji, the Desert Wizard. He gives them a ride in his magic red electric cart back to Bear King and Bobo Chico. With the combined magic of Clumenji and Bear King, a bridge appears and they all cross the canyon. They soon reach Clumenji’s adobe hacienda, a delightful palace of red rock, amongst desert spires.
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Special thanks to our producer, Scott Whitney of PodWorx.