Our tale begins long ago, when there were fewer of us, but much more of the magic and wonder that made the world what it is. At that time, there was a magical valley surrounded by ancient mountains and a great forest. In the magical valley lived Panda, and at the top of the mountains lived Unicorn, who was known throughout the land as the bravest, most magnificent and magical creature. Panda knew that he, too, could be as great as the Unicorn. He searched everywhere for one who could help him find the way. He asked the sages and the scholars, the birds of the air and the fish in the sea. But he found no-one to help him.

 

After much searching, he came across a seer who had prophesied that one day, there would come a creature from the lush, green valley who would challenge Unicorn on his high mountaintop. The seer looked into Panda's heart and knew that this was the one foretold. On the night of the next lunar eclipse, Panda must find Unicorn on the mountain and meet him in battle to decide once and for all who would be the most magnificent creature to walk the earth. Panda wept, for he did not wish to fight Unicorn, but he knew in his heart that there was no other way. He began preparing, studying ancient scrolls in the temples of the immortals and seeking counsel from wise animals. For two years he prepared himself, until at last the time had come to climb the mountain and face his foe. The lunar eclipse was nigh, and Unicorn’s magic would fade when the light of the moon was dark.

 

At last, Panda set out on his journey. He crossed rapid rivers and dangerous canyons. He travelled across the lush valley, through the great forest, and along the waves of the great sea. He drew his strength from the places he travelled and those he met there. They wished him luck, and the soft forest breeze wove the salt of the sea and the dew of the valley into armor, to help him on his quest. At last, he found himself at the foot of the mountain, and began the long, steady climb. As he reached the top of the mountain, and stood before Unicorn, a red shadow crept across the bright face of the moon. Panda looked to the sky and gathered his resolve, for the lunar eclipse had begun…