“Dingel, you’re always getting us into a jam. This here forest is darker than pitch, and I just stubbed my toe for the fifth time,” grumbled Crofty.
“Well, you were the one who said we needed to get home fast as a whip because you need your beauty sleep,” Dingel replied.
The Wee Folk of Dinin Yan were returning from a fairy dance on the other side of Dark Wood. While the dancing was delightful, the three were tired and wanted to get home.
“Don’t see why we needed to hurry. Walking by the river is lovely this time of year with the katydids singing,” remarked Norbert.
“Ouch, dang, those root runners,” cried Crofty.
The Wee Folk of Dinin Yan were known for their excellent dancing moves and were always invited to festivals and banquets to entertain the guests.
“Steady on lads, we should be home soon enough,” said Dingel.
Crofty took a tumble, and when he stood, he gave a mighty yell and said, “Devil, take my soul for a torch.”
There came a blinding flash of light almost at once, and before the three stood a dark figure holding a glowing ball of flame in his right hand.
“Did I hear someone request a light?” asked the figure.
“Now you did it, Crofty, that there’s Auld Nick,” stuttered Norbert.
“Do you want it or not? It’s a simple transaction, and then we can both be on our way,” said the devil.
Dingel stepped up, looked the fellow up and down, and said, “I wouldn’t take Crofty. This here, Fella, looks like he might be up to something dishonest.”
“My good man, I am simply offering your friend what he requested. How can you say I am not on the level?” protested the figure.
“It is a dandy torch, I must say, but the light’s color is a little off for my liking. I’m afraid I’ll need to pass on your offer. If I find myself in a similar predicament, I’ll be sure to call on your services again without condition,” said Crofty with a wry smile.
“So be it, but remember I’m not to be trifled with,” said Auld Nick, then vanished.
“How are we gonna find our way out now?” said Norbert.
“Don’t you worry about that? While you all were tongue-wagging, I got my bearings,” said Dingel with a broad smile.
Moments later, the three stood in the middle of a path that led straight to their home.
“I don’t think we’ll be taking any shortcuts for a while. Auld Nick seemed a bit upset about not getting Crofty’s soul,” said Norbert.
“Norbert, you certainly have a way with words,” said Crofty as the three made their way home.
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