Leshy (The Forest Dweller)

by D.   Mar 4, 2019


Ravens croon with
ravenous laughter,
trees cackling
dementedly, boughs
snap under heavy
footstep;

evening has squandered
its last breath

as the beast trudges
over the
lichenous carpet
of the woods,

an injured, lame and
panting wolf
draped over his naked
shoulders -

the wretched canine,
blood curdling in its mouth
whimpers with each stomp.

In the mossy undergrowth
sits a poor, gaunt hunter,
arrow drawn, towards the
looming beast - stomach
murmuring, paining hunger,
trembling hands - waiting for
the shot

-

before the man lets loose
his grip, the Leshy plucks
a twig from his beard,
and lays down the wolf
upon the ground,

snaps its neck,
and turns towards the
hunter

with a single grunt,
a slow, knowing nod,
he turns and lumbers
back towards the
woodland

a boon for the sick
and hungry hunter,
whose children will
eat tonight.

-

The Leshy trudges
through the undergrowth,
a robin perched,
chattering wildly upon
his head.



Inspired by Leshy, an imposing humanoid guardian of the woodland, who was often seen as a fairy rather than a monster, able to take many different forms. He was mischievous, but a protector of the poor, and animals alike, usually followed by woodland creatures like deer and wolves.

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Latest Comments

  • 5 years ago

    by Michael

    Daniel,
    I take my poets hat off to you, such a beautifully well told tale, and congratulations on your win fella, M :)

  • 5 years ago

    by Brenda

    Daniel, I really am enjoying this enchanted creatures series you've been doing. Another fascinating write.

    • 5 years ago

      by D.

      Thank you! There may be another next week :)

  • 5 years ago

    by Mr. Darcy

    I think I love you. . .

    • 5 years ago

      by D.

      Steady on! At least buy me a drink first ;)

  • 5 years ago

    by Maple Tree

    oh be still my nature heart..... wow

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