It has stood for two hundred years. No one knows who built it, but everyone knows why.
The elders built the tower to warn the village during the early years of the Ice Wars.
Each Autumn, a small patrol of men occupies the tower with enough food to live until spring.
Their primary task is simple. Alert the home guard of an attack by shooting a flaming arrow high into the air.
Their next task is not so easy.
The patrol must try to slow the attack, giving the village time to prepare for the assault. Many soldiers have given their lives carrying out this duty.
When the air turns cool, and the leaves change, the home guard prepares to draw lots to see who will face the Frost Giants.
Some relish the challenge. The guard’s motto: Give me an arrow and a strong bow, and none will pass.
Others hope the mountain raiders will leave the valley and find peace in their realm.
Until that time, the old guardsmen remind them, “Never trust an icy. Their cold hearts hold no compassion and will sooner kill you than go fishing.”
Such is the way of those who have fought in the Ice Wars.
For More Fun:
Folksburywoods Story Blog 
Leave a comment