Egi-Baba

Egi-Baba was a sinister witch who lived in the far north of the Slavic lands. Her ways were dark and mysterious, and few went to her for her healing ways.

The witch cared little for the locals. Her interests lay in the ancient ways, so she would spend time digging for herbs and roots to make her resurrection potions.

When the year turned cold, and the veil between the worlds of light and dark became thin, Egi-Baba turned her attention to summoning the dark ones.

This year, Egi-Baba secured the bones of soldiers lost in the war against the frost giants. With the bones in hand, she mixed the potion for the return of Samhan’s darkest fiend.

“Bone of crone, the eye of hen brings forth he whose shadow turns fools to stone, bring forth the Pumpkin King,” said the witch. Her cauldron bubbled and sputtered, and slowly, a shape arose into the night.

“Who summons me,” the demon said.

“I, Egi-Baba, go forth and cause havoc upon the land,” said the witch.

“Payment is expected,” said the Pumpkin King.

“Before you lay the last bones of the Frost Bragaid. That should be payment enough,” said Egi-Baba.

“Indeed, you have my gratitude for bringing me those who denied me victory so long ago,” the demon said.

“Go, my lord, and bring fear to fools who have forgotten the old ways,” said the witch.

Across the land, Egi-Baba could hear the distant screams and howls throughout the night. As the sun rose, the witch poured herself a cup of tea, sat in her chair, and started planning what next year might bring.

“I think I might try something new, something unexpected,” said Egi-Baba with a smile.