Folksburywoods

It’s a time of darkness across the land.

The young huddle under layers to ward off winter’s bite while the teller of tales spins her yarn.

“During midwinter when the snow lies deep, the beast walks the land,” said Baba.

“Is it evil from the dark valley beyond the nine lands?” the lass asked.

“Nay sprout, this be the spawn of Thor’s mighty beasts, the Yule Goat. Wandering from village to village, it tests the cheer of the season,” the teller muttered.

“Does it eat bad children like Krampus?” the lad asked.

“Nay, the Yule Goat may bring gifts, though just as often demands them from folk,” the crone said.

“What should we do if he comes our way?” asked the children.

“Honor him and the Yule will bring forth goodness and cheer,” the woman said.

“What if we don’t? Will he eat us?” asked the boy.

“To scorn the beast is to invite wrath upon you and yours,” said Baba.

The children hopped out from under the blankets and ran to the window. “If he comes, we will offer cakes and tea so the Yule will be of great cheer,” cried the children.

The old woman laughed, then said she would wake them if the beast passed by.

“Now off to dreamland you two,” morning waits for no man, and we’ve got work to do,” said Baba.

Under the warm blankets, the children soon slipped into sleep, dreaming of the Yule Goat and bundles of gifts.

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