《Grandmother's Teeth》


 Introduction to a not so fair tale

    Introduction to a Not so Fair tale


    Metallic striking erupted in the courtyard advancing shouts of battle met with cries of anger, astonishment then anguish. It wasn¡¯t long before the Villa was burning. Many, from guest, master to servant were being rounded up in the open distraught. A hidden boy overheard the sentinels speaking of the shame of the household.


    ¡°The republic is blessed to be rid of this wretched family.¡± One soldier said.


    ¡°Pity no slaves will be kept yet sooner or later their rebellious ideas would no doubt poison the senate.¡± As the other responded, a barking among the chickens turned their heads. Taking advantage, the boy fled into the garden.


    He ignored the dead that had already been discovered stepping over two bodies, one a stable boy hardly older, neither had weapons upon them. Sobs up ahead caused torches from every direction to mass. When the lights began to enlarge his shadow over thick billows of smoke he took the gamble; covering his face he ducked into the folds of air.


    Navigating by clutching along the hedge a thin old bearded moaning man rounded the corner and grasped onto him. Startled by the sudden confrontation and the close up sight of his impalement the boy could not protest when the man leaned all of his weight onto him.


    ¡°Take to the woods¡­They wait¡­along the roads¡­¡± The discomfort of a perilous burden was lifted after the man passed away. Though it would have been the child¡¯s right to abandon him alive for self-preservation the idea had made him uneasy. Yet this fellow had advised him. He laid him down and placed leaves over his eyes for the Ferryman, sadly he had no coin. Removing the weapon was briefly considered until the clanging of metal dangerously close forced him to shy away from the body to the side.


    This encounter had not only changed his direction but also taught him that stooping lower made it easier to breathe. His heel slid down a watering ditch dry that led to the orchard. This would be the best route to take to the woods. Once there the clouded trees took to imitating the shapes of men. He wove through them with stinging eyes. Nothing discernible, moving limbs drove him against his better judgment toward the heat.


    Finally, tenacity was rewarded as his toes pitched into the steep incline of a hill. If fortune was truly with him he might find a lake or pool within the woods to sleep near. The burn off thickened, it felt as though his brow was melting away so the child pretended the beautiful cool lake was just ahead and it rallied him upwards though he could not even see his feet. Hacking with dizziness he began to recite.


    ¡°In the cool woods there is a lake. In the cool woods there is a lake.¡±


    The sentiment was already lost to stark reality. If he did manage to get away from the fire turning upon him then most likely he would be lost, shivering, being stalked in the forest. At best he might find a decent vantage point to observe the enemy then when they left, return for supplies. Currently he had nothing to sustain, even the cloth of his robe helped little. His lungs burned and his eyes were growing heavy. Cries of agony and plundering pursuit continued to follow.


    The smoke cleared into a serene stillness. His blind trek had carried him much further than he had intended, for here the trees seemed taller and more ancient than he had ever remembered. Between the gaps of the canopy the stars shone bright with secret smiling rings. A fresh silence sliced through the night making him feel as if all at once he had gone deaf.


    Yet when he coughed it echoed and his breath carried upon a soft chilly fog that was a far distant cousin to the thick black haze he had emerged from. He spun about to spot persecutors and was met with only more path and forest mingling with shadow. There was no smoke, no hill to look down from, and consequently no villa. However, the sensation that he was being hunted had not gone away.


    ¡°Is this a dream? Or maybe death?¡± he thought with dread thinking that perhaps he had passed out aflame.


    The creak of a bow drew his gaze to another. A single glare from one intense glowing eyeball held him paralyzed until the branch below was released by a great claw and a heavy tread kicked up earth from the beastly shadow that was soon gone. The boy mimicked this behavior in the other direction. If he was not dead he had no wish to test it. The wall of still began to crumble as noises of every creeping variety sounded with his bound. The forest began to come to life as rapidly as his sprint.


    The bright white feathers of a dove accosted his eyes as it flew overhead. He suddenly remembered earlier that evening before the attack thinking that the moon was only a little lock of hair in the sky. What then gave this creature such light? His curiosity turned him with it as a cat dashed under his lifted leg throwing him off balance. With a start he hopped and turned toppling into an older woman.


    ¡°Little fellow, how bold of you to want to dance with me.¡± She untangled herself from him with a gentle smile, adjusting her shall. A basket full of herbs had scattered and she collected them back in.


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    ¡°I am¡­there was a¡­¡± He suddenly felt very foolish and faltered over his explanation. Face to face with another person he feared he had run away with imagination. He immediately became sterner and warned her.


    ¡°Old mother you must hide. Roman soldiers come to kill anyone they find.¡± He stood and offered her a hand.


    ¡°Whom do you call an old mother? May death hold your tongue! You suppose you see wrinkles because I have a wise look about me.¡± The woman blushed holding her cheeks.


    ¡°I suppose so.¡± He gritted accepting a forearm pulling her aloft quickly.


    ¡°Hmm, the way you bare your teeth while you struggle. An animal spirit is what brought you here. She took the time to brush her skirt with his next tug she pulled back with an unexpected strength.


    ¡°Wish you, safe haven? I shall provide. It has been a long, since... a new guest has come.¡±


    ¡°We may be tracked to your home.¡± The boy cautioned.


    ¡°Then tread lighter.¡± She smirked and he found this moment of good humor annoying yet somehow filling him with a false reassurance.


    It seemed they traveled deep, a great distance in no time at all, until they came to a cottage with a pebbled path leading up to the door with sprigs and flowers hanging above the frame. A little stool beneath a window sill outside had upon it a small pipe. She picked it up and began to smoke, placing a hand upon his shoulder to pause entry. ¡°A moment please,¡±


    ¡°Why do you smoke?¡± the boy asked, astonished for he had only seen ritual herbs gathered in bowls.


    ¡°I have company.¡± She muttered.


    Again he could not think her answer was sound; If a scent was heavy women did not want it in their homestead. He, sadly, thought of all the women whose residents and belongings were burning. She flicked the pipe at the door and began to read the contents of the ashy shape she had created trickling slowly down.


    ¡°No evil spirit in or upon your person but you have come from a cursed household. Such an uncommonly gifted soul, blessed to endure. Your observations are very keen. Ah you enjoy stories, listening, and telling them. That is what makes us kindred I believe.¡±


    ¡°Woman, are you a priestess?¡± Warily the boy started to back away. She only smiled and opened the door to him.


    There was a soft looking white bearskin on the floor just in front of a crackling fire. After such smoke and heat he thought that fire would be the last thing he wanted to see. Certainly it was a far cry from the lake he had dreamt about. However, just standing there he was beginning to become weary and the air was beginning to bite at him making him feel stiff and cold.


    ¡°I cannot have a depleted child running about my forest, come in and rest. I shall replenish you.¡± Her beckoning invitation was all the push needed. After entering he noted the furnishings were even more cheering and comfortable than the rug on the floor.


    The treatment that soon followed was subtle, increasingly pleasurable. He was offered a drink to soothe his parched throat, then a bath was filled for him and while he soaked she made his dinner and laid out clean clothing. He wondered at how the previous child could share his exact measurements, mentioning nothing supposing the memory might be painful to his host.


    He sat at a table to a delicious meal yet in truth could enjoy it very little. He had such guilt for those who had suffered in his place. He complimented it to be polite and forced it down not knowing when the next might come. She only nibbled a bit herself before preparing his bed upon the bearskin. When he laid down he feared the nightmares that were to come but surprisingly he fell into a slumber deep, undisturbed.


    When he awoke she was sitting by her window looking up at the moon.


    ¡°Are you keeping watch?¡± he asked, sitting up.


    ¡°For your¡­what were they called, Romans? No, my child you have slept for an entire day and they have not come. Few find their way here.¡±


    ¡°You are waiting for something. What?¡± The boy inquired, growing anxious.


    ¡°My how observant. I was merely looking out at my garden and remembering someone like you.¡± Her eyes glazed over with the memory she spoke of.


    ¡°Like me?¡± The boy rubbed his own eyes feeling more awake with every word for he truly did love stories.


    ¡°This was a soul laden with guilt, with such potential and wit.¡± Her cheeks grew warm as if she had grown amused with her musings toying with them in her head. She gestured for him to grab the tea from the fireplace.


    ¡°You hardly know me.¡± The boy frowned as she took the pot from him, poured and laced their drinks with pedals.


    ¡°Oh I know you.¡± Her words poured out as smooth as the liquid into the cups.


    ¡°We have met many times. Stay, heal, eat and I shall ramble to you awhile unless you are eager to place your feet back on the road.¡± The door opened unexpectedly with no one around it. The boy took a nervous step toward it. A breeze from outside wafted the scent of his tea to his nose and he followed the curls of steam to look back at her watching sadly out her window.


    ¡°They will just be waiting for me on the road.¡± He clicked the door shut.


    ¡°Yes, and back in the villa if you ever return to it for supplies¡­¡± When he turned back he noticed that the pot was back over the fireplace though the woman had seemed not to move. While her warning frightened him, making him rethink which way he had swung the hinges.


    The lady threw her braid before her, opening her arms to him.


    ¡°Here you are safe in a space that is mine. In a realm between worlds I shall keep you, weaving the strands of my story while I stroke the strands of your hair until it is long and your soul is strong enough to face the world.¡±


    And before he knew it his head rested on her knee. She rubbed his temples and played with his hair and he saw what it was she spoke of as if he were there.


    ¡°Can you guess the soul that is yours, that soul that reminds me of you?¡±

 Fatal Winter

    Chapter 1 Fatal winter


    Elena jumped back against the wall as her father kicked in the door dragging her Mother in by her hair. ¡°What have you done? What have you done?!¡± He shouted so furious that his breath looked like dragon smoke. Huddled under a pile of blankets in the corner of the room next to a goat that was bleating loudly Elena trembled and said not a word.  The headman had little respect for women as it was. He knew that when his back was turned they all gossiped about his terrible leadership. How he and the other men had not worked the fields hard enough last spring. This year¡¯s rationing had become less than slim for the blizzards had not stopped. Several men had been sent to go find other villages for aid. They had yet to be seen.


    ¡°I only spoke the truth of what the elements spoke to me.¡± Elena¡¯s mother firmly spoke. She was the last shrine maiden left. Two others had been attacked this year before the Frost, by animals in the woods. The markings were so strange it could not be determined whether it had been bears or wolves. Because of their calling it was even suggested that demons were lurking.


    ¡°Go back and tell them this winter will ebb soon! Go back and give them hope!¡±


    ¡°I will not lie! The signs are everywhere that this winter will last! Any of the house mothers will tell you so! I need not even return to the shrine! Spring is to come late this year!¡±


    ¡°Housemothers, do not tell me about housemothers! Some of those women have put their own babies out in the cold for the Frost to prey upon! They bring this hell on us all!¡±


    ¡°Why is it you will not take the men to hunt the beasts in the woods? If the village is starving, go find us food! And give us vengeance as well!¡± His wife angrily retorted.


    ¡°Wife things in that wood are not of this earth!¡± The Headman¡¯s bulging eyes and frog face always betrayed every emotion of panic and fear. He had always been a sad nervous creature not up to his calling. In many ways, Elena understood and pitied him. Like her mother she had the gift of other worldly senses and she hated them. They frightened her. When she tapped into them everything was too surreal and wild.  She preferred the steady grounded feeling of just being mortal. She wanted to be a wife and mother and nothing else. Her father wanted only to be a man, not a leader of men.


    His statement was amplified by howls in the night and the crackling of Frost. Both he and her Mother gripped their ears. Their eyes had the look of torment.


    ¡°They gather soon to attack the village. These creatures mean to feast on us. Husband, I beg you to rally the people!¡± She gripped his fur coat and he shook her off.


    ¡°Rally the people? They are ready to stone us! And what shall I feed them before the hunt?¡±


    ¡°What about our last goat?¡± Elena dared to speak because she did not wish to be eaten by monsters.


    ¡°The milk is more important than the meat it will provide.¡± The headman looked at his daughter sternly.


    ¡°It will be a sacrifice and gesture well made.¡± Elena¡¯s mother stood entreating.


    ¡°It is no use; the men are all too weak.¡± The Headman wrung his hands.


    ¡°Not all, just one.¡± Elena¡¯s mother spat.


    With a roar of anger the Headman struck her. She fell and her head hit the corner of a little wooden table. She would not move ever again.  The Headman¡¯s cries turned to anguish as he fell to his knees beside her. Elena bolted to her Mother¡¯s side but she was of no use only cold dead eyes stared up at her. She closed them.


    ¡°Will there never be any reprieve!¡± Her father cried. ¡°What else is to be placed upon my head?¡± He held onto the limp body of his wife.


    He cried out to the deities above and below. ¡°Curse you! Curse you!¡± As he raved Elena held her father briefly letting him grieve then shushed his sobbing.


    ¡°Father fear not. I shall go and tell the villagers that my mother has fallen ill.¡± She shook as she took her Mother¡¯s hood.  An ancient blessing descended from the White Goddess passed from mother to daughter since before the very existence of the village. How very dear it was to her now this mantle and she knew she had to be strong when taking it.


    ¡°I shall tell them it was given to me the task of going to the shrine to plead for our village¡¯s sake to the elementals.¡±


    Once again her Father¡¯s eyes grew wide and he gasped, ¡°Yes, yes that might work! Go to the shrine now so they see you! Many of the men admire you! Many seek your hand! And when you return you will give a false prophecy of future prosperity! That should hold the men¡¯s resolve...¡±


    ¡°Very well I go.¡± Elena turned away quickly so her father would not see her tears. She knew because of his cowardice he would not come with her. She said one last prayer for her mother before opening the door and leaving.


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    Elena made her way shakily through the ice covered fields she brought along her scythe. The only weapon she could wield and though she could wield it well (Mostly against grain in the spring) it was only a precaution she had not the stomach for battle. She heard whispers mixed in with the moans of Father Winter. Her tears began to freeze on her face. There was a crackling of branches where no trees were present. She felt someone watching her. Her stomach clenched as she used this sense. As the flurries rose and fell around her Fedor stepped through the snow before her in bright brandishing blue armor. It startled her and she dropped her scythe.


    Adorned to command attentive awe and respect among mere mortals, Fedor himself was a naturalist and knew not what his own imagery evoked.  Only that it seemed essential when he was to convey a message that must be heard.


    ¡°You make more dew drops than a flower Elena. Are you destined to be damp all your life?¡± Fedor¡¯s own spikey white hair held tinted blue dew as he attentively looked down on Elena, the tallest young woman in the town.


    Elena was embarrassed both by his statement and at the circumstances. ¡°Fedor was it you my mother spoke to last?¡±


    ¡°The person she spoke to last was your Father but I can see by you here, wearing that hood that it did not go well for her.¡±


    ¡°She fell ill.¡± Elena clenched her fists foolishly repeating her lie to him.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Fedor seemed to find humor in her statement. Of course he would. ¡°She certainly did. I suppose you''re going into the woods then to uphold your fathers¡­honor is it?¡±


    Elena nodded, not looking him in the eyes.  The shifting of the snow was making her dizzy.


    ¡°Elena, I want to give you another choice. There is evil creeping in this forest.  If you go there you will be ill fated. Your Mother was already given an answer. She was told to give an animal sacrifice for the sake of your village. Because her powers are not very astute the signs did not come through clearly. She assumed that your father needed to hunt the animal and then again that it was the goat.¡±


    ¡°So which is it?¡± Elena clenched her hands together for warmth beneath the cape of her hood. Fedor¡¯s look was that of an irritated smith working with a dull tool.


    ¡°Neither, if you follow me I will lead you to the animal.¡±


    Elena looked down and she could no longer see her scythe. For a moment she scrambled about looking for it, there was no sign. She did not wish to follow Fedor; he was rumored sometimes to have his way with women and then they died. Still this did not seem to be his purpose here so she let him lead on.


    ¡°Listen carefully child, do not hesitate, and do all this in the order in which I speak. The animal you come upon I have frozen for you. It is not dead. Release this feral creature from its twisted misery. Beside it will be two stones, smash its head with them.¡±


    Elena gasped; such brutality so soon in her grief.


    ¡°Afterwards, you will meet a man. Go to the village and announce to the men that whosoever destroys the monsters in wood with silver tipped arrows will become your husband. This will rally the men to courage, and the one destined to be your husband shall become the new headman.¡± Elena felt as spun as the fluttering flakes around them. If Fedor said these words they could be true.


    ¡°There it is.¡± Fedor pointed to a calico, mostly tan wild cat. It was of the small variety. In more prosperous days the villagers would take them in as pets. It was curled and still in a drift that looked as soft as a pillow.


    ¡°Have you no blade or sharp object Fedor? I have bled rabbits before.¡±Elena entreated.


    ¡°All I can give I am giving you. I have frozen the creature and that is enough. Trust me this is no rabbit. A rabbit has a desire to live.¡± He turned around and placed his hands upon her shoulders. Her teeth began to chatter. He became strangely sympathetic, ¡°Above all dew drop, do not enter the woods or you shall come to fear Spring more than Winter.¡±


    Howls echoed through the air. Fedor briskly descended down another path. ¡°I shall lead them away from you, hurry.¡± A flurry and he was gone.


    Elena hesitated, she trembled and chattered, confused by this bizarre confrontation. Eventually she did pick up the stone, as she began to move the cat stirred. Its eyes opened narrowly. They were deep and dark, it stopped moving and only looked at her.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡± She sobbed, ¡°So very sorry.¡± Elena held the little animal close to her and stroked it, trying to give it some comfort before the end.


    Elena had killed animals before. One could not live in this harsh land and not know how. However, the death of her mother was still fresh in her head. It seemed to her that this was an evil deed. And what of Fedor¡¯s words? She was too numb to really think about their meaning.


    ¡°Elena what are you doing out here?¡± It was Sadko from the village. Long had he been her childhood friend. He ran the smithy and sometimes left to merchant the town¡¯s goods with his Father. Though all the women in the village desired him as all the men desired Elena he had yet to ask one to be his bride. They had taken long walks near the river Vashko, for which the town also was named after. Often he soothed her heart with song.


    ¡°Oh Sadko, I am so glad you are here!¡±


    ¡°Elena, I saw you leave your hut. You will freeze if you stay out here much longer.¡± Sadko knelt down and felt her forehead; his hands were warm and gentle.


    ¡°Sadko, Fedor says I must kill this cat or we will have reason to fear Spring!¡± Elena blurted because she was always one to speak plainly.


    Sadko held her close and rocked her. ¡°What has confounded you? Has the Frost driven you mad? What need have we to fear spring? It is a time of rebirth. Fedor is a disciple of Father Winter. Perhaps that is why he is speaking so.¡±


    ¡°Sadko, listen, you must believe me. I am not mad! You know me as a brother should. Look into my eyes.¡±


    ¡°I believe you Elena, tell me more.¡± He gestured for her to continue.


    ¡°He says I am to send the men in the village to fight the monsters with silver tipped arrows.¡±


    ¡°The monsters have silver tipped arrows?¡± Sadko smiled.


    ¡°No, the men are to arm themselves with them! And the one who kills the monsters I am to wed!¡± She said with exasperation.


    ¡°Is this so? Only my father is rich and traveled enough to own silver.¡± Sadko frowned and then brightened. ¡°Silver tipped arrows will take time to prepare. Come back with me to the village Elena and I shall forge them!¡±


    ¡°No, first I must kill this cat!¡± At Elena¡¯s words the cat hissed and scratched Sadko¡¯s face and ran off. It had warmed in between them and now was headed for the forest.


    ¡°Tell the men in the village what I said!¡± Elena suddenly found strength from his touch. ¡°I must do this!¡± She ran into the woods after the cat. She paused to see if he would follow instead he did as he was bid. Sourly she spoke her thoughts out loud, ¡°He does not believe me. He does not offer to help me search for the cat. Sadko is no different than my father, a coward with emotions on his face.¡±

 Hunter

    Chapter 2 Hunter


    The trees loomed thicker and higher. The cat was nowhere to be seen. Elena felt more and more foolish. Had not Fedor warned her not to go into the woods? She was certainly doomed. She had followed the noises of the cat which at several points had changed direction. The way out was lost. If only she could find the shrine keepers path. Of course she only traveled that rarely with her mother and that had been straight from the village. A cat was not likely to follow a path anyhow. More time passed, just when she was about to cry once more she heard someone else start. The sobbing was that of a small child.


    ¡°Hallo? Where are you? Are you hurt?!¡± Elena shouted.


    ¡°We are over here!¡± A young boy¡¯s voice called.


    ¡°We?¡± thought Elena.


    When she finally crashed clumsily through the brush and came upon them they sat beneath a big fur tree.  They were terribly strange looking, beautiful but strange. They were dressed like little woodsmen, covered in a variety of grey pelts and brown furs. Their hair was so blonde it was white. One boy and the other was a girl. The boy stood up, on his shoulder was a white dove.  In the girls hand was a piece of bread. They had no boots on their feet. Neither one of them looked older than eight.


    ¡°Are you going to eat us?¡± The girl said frightened.


    ¡°Am I what?¡± Elena gasped horrified.


    The boy quickly interrupted. ¡°She thinks you are Lueda Yedka because of the hood you wear. Witches like to roam the woods and eat children.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Elena sighed, though the conversation was terrible it was nice to know they were as scared as she. ¡°No yearlings I am from a nearby village, Vashko. I have lost my way. Where are you from?¡±


    They looked at each other as if they were not sure what to say or if they should say it.


    ¡°We were left here. Our guardians ran out of food so they went to go get some.  They told us to stay here and wait.¡± The male shrugged as if this were a normal occurrence.


    ¡°Running out of food is very common this winter.¡± Elena said sadly.


    ¡°Not until recently, we have had plenty of food, it has just been hard to catch.¡± The little girl smiled, not sweetly. The boy nudged her.


    Elena smiled at the little girl¡¯s tenacity. Obviously she had no comprehension of the struggle her parents were going through.  ¡°What are your names?¡±


    ¡°I am Hansel; this is Gretel.¡±  He stroked the dove on his shoulder and it coed.


    ¡°That is amazing. How did you train it to behave so well? And why does it stay with you during Winter?¡±


    ¡°Hansel is always showing off with birds. He likes them you know.¡± Gretel rolled her eyes.


    ¡°It is better than you showing off for boys. You are such a flirt.¡± The boy stuck out his tongue.


    ¡°Only fat boys, I like to see them jiggle when they laugh.¡± Gretel did a quick imitation.


    ¡°Truly you are so young. You should not be flirting with boys.¡± Elena scolded.


    Both of the children seemed to think she had said something funny.  They laughed and giggled. Suddenly Elena recognized something.


    ¡°Where did you get that bread? It looks just like the kind my Mother baked for the shrine offering.¡±


    ¡°Does it?¡± Hansel quickly grabbed it from Gretel¡¯s hands and crushed it to crumbs.


    ¡°It is just something I feed the birds with.¡±


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    Elena was beginning to feel more than eerie. The white blonde hair of the children reminded her of Fedor¡¯s blue silvered streaks. ¡°Well I think I shall be going.  If you are sure your guardians are returning.¡±


    ¡°Stay for dinner.¡± entreated Hansel.


    ¡°Yes, your hood is so lovely and you smell so nice.¡± Gretel latched on to the white hood of the shrine. It was then somehow that Elena knew that she would not be willing to let it go. Terror struck her as she realized how hungrily the children looked at her. Not as a starving child would to its mother more to the plate.


    A great white bear burst into the clearing with an ear splitting roar. The dove flew off as Hansel was knocked aside like a rag doll.  Elena was unable to fathom the mysterious transformation of Gretel before her eyes. One moment she was screaming, then biting the white bear¡¯s leg with sharp fangs and glowing eyes. The bear picked her up and threw her against the tree in the middle of that throw a child became an animal. She rebounded off the tree and doubled back onto the bear. Another cream colored wolf, her brother reformed, attacking the bear¡¯s back.


    Elena turned and ran. She did not need to see the ending.  Either victor was not going to be kind. She raced through the wood and though a few brambles caught at her legs here and there the rest of the wood seemed to make way for her.  Heavy snow made bows lower for her. Breezes swayed trees aside and she could see the smoke of the village.  She stopped to catch her breath relieved she was going to make it after all.  A hot air touched the back of her neck. She turned around and faced a horror untold even by the likes of her people.


    This creature was not the little wolves she had seen before.  Though, wolf was the only thing that could come close to describing it.  Its head was bigger than that of the bears.  Poor Elena had not noticed it as she passed by for it had cleverly matted itself with leaves and grass. Its ruddy rustic fur was a patch work of browns that blended in perfectly with the trees. It stood upright like a man and had claws resembling hands as it balanced on tall haunches. Its maw was open in a canine grin and it salivated.


    ¡°Move woman!¡± There came a shout to her left. An arrow struck the muzzle of the animal. Elena screamed a blood curdling scream that caused the creature to grip its ears. Again another shot to its shoulder and to its chest.  Soon afterward came the butt of a silver axe into the creature¡¯s back.  A man clad in tan furs with a fawn and gold beard stood before her defensively. His hood was dark black and his eyes, nearly hollow.  His face was dead pan, except for the shifting they did to follow the creature¡¯s deft movements.  Truly this beast was fast. The hunter stood sure footed. They battled one animal man the other a man acting as an animal.


    ¡°I am Ivan slaughterer of lions and lambs!¡± bellowed the hunter. ¡°And you beast are felled!¡±


    Elena began to swoon. Was this what real courage looked like? She had forgotten, nay perhaps never seen it before. Her jaw dropped when she realized it was the monster that was trying to retreat. Ivan¡¯s axe burrowed into its back and it collapsed, it flinched than lay still. Without even pausing to check the creature he turned to her.  Dark inquiring eyes looked her up and down. ¡°Thank-you lass your scream¡­distracted him.¡± This compliment was not heartfelt perhaps even mocking by the tone. She found his attempt at humor amusing. His face refused to relent it¡¯s stillness to any emotion. Her own face was shifting from being pale to blushing.


    ¡°There are others, young wolves¡­¡± Elena¡¯s hand shook as she tried to point.


    ¡°I saw their bodies being eaten by a bear.¡± His answer was so abrupt she did not know at first what to say.


    ¡°You-you, destroyed the monster?¡± She finally stammered. He could have nodded. He did not, the answer was obvious. So here he was; Fedor¡¯s prediction. It must be the man she was destined to marry.  The man destined to be headman. She teetered and tried to lean on the tree. He wouldn¡¯t have any of it. He scooped her up and carried her gently.  Sadko came running into the wood. Several men came running up behind him.


    ¡°What goes on here? Who are you?!¡± Sadko drew his bow upon the man. Elena was startled to see it was silver tipped. So he really had believed her.


    ¡°Do not shoot him, he has saved my life! See there the beast!¡± She pointed and as she thought most of the men stepped back. Only Sadko surprisingly stepped forward.


    ¡°You did this?¡± He asked suspiciously of the man holding Elena.


    Ivan drew himself up to full height which was formidable. Virtually a small giant compared to the rest of the men. ¡°I was about to take her to my mother who is a healer.¡±


    ¡°A healer, since when does a healer live in these woods?¡± Another man muttered and then shrunk as Ivan¡¯s gaze shifted. Ivan¡¯s voice was deep and bellowing.


    ¡°My mother is a healer of everything, beasts, earth and men! She heard your little village was mistakenly worshiping elemental demons at a false shrine. That the land was sick with cold and famine! I came ahead of our party, to build her hata near herbs and clear the area of monsters.¡±


    ¡°So it is as our maiden prophesied we have ourselves a new headman!¡± One villager cried and the rest cheered. Soon laughter, claps on the back and the tugging of shirt sleeves caused Ivan to be heralded out of the woods and down the hill to the village. One villager did not celebrate or join in exclamations of: ¡°To the wedding!¡± Sadko turned and looked back at the wood with hatred and shot a silver arrow.  Back where the Beast had laid yet mysteriously was gone Fedor caught the shaft. As it froze in his hand he mouthed with distaste ¡°Mortals.¡±

 Grandmother

    Chapter 3 Grandmother


    Sadko was the only one who did not drink at the nightly festivities rubbing the light scratches on his cheek. As such he was given the watch in case any monsters appeared. Dawn crept up and so did another yet all the men stayed fast asleep when Sadko shouted. ¡°Who are you?! Show yourself!¡±


    ¡°Brave boy, would you shoot a toothless woman who this very night might have lost her son?¡±   The crone had a bun on her head that was tightly twisted yet surrounded by tangles. Her shall was heavy, pulled together into one big ball in the front. The large number of tassels it bore seemed tied also. Her fingers were long and slender but her knuckles were big. For all her attire the woman looked made of knots. The cat she held slept content in her arms.


    ¡°What is your name, woman?¡± Sadko questioned. She only blinked at him. The cat opened its eyes and hissed.  Ivan came up behind Sadko and with a firm hand put pressure on his arm to lower the bow. ¡°There is no need to fear Sadko. This is my Mother.¡±


    The woman nodded curtly as her eyes narrowed upon her son. ¡°Why is it you did not return?¡± She glanced at Sadko suspiciously and then reluctantly added. ¡°I was worried about you.¡±


    ¡°I was wed to the shrine maiden last night.¡± Ivan replied stoically.


    ¡°What? You were supposed to return to me! Not be wed! Where is she?! Did you consummate this union?!¡± The woman was shrieking, literally leaping off the ground. Other villagers came out grabbing their ears and blinking at the strange sight before them.


    ¡°I did as they made me. I meant to return to you afterwards.¡± Ivan lowered his head.


    ¡°It is too late! All is lost you fool!¡± She slapped Ivan and the men were astonished. Never had they seen a woman degrade a man of such stature before.


    Sadko spoke, ¡°Old one, their wedding was done in the traditional fashion. What need have you to cry? All is not lost.¡±


    ¡°Sadko is it?¡± The bushel of threads turned on him measuring him with her eyes,


    ¡°Why my son was gone in the night our mountain sheep broke free and ran away. So my son has a fresh new bride and we have no means to take care of her.¡± She looked around, realizing that the whole village was watching. Her voice became dramatically sorrowful, ¡°And is not a mother to be present at her own son¡¯s wedding?¡± She began to cry into her knobby hands.  Several of the women nodded in agreement. And many of the men of the town verbally admitted that perhaps things had been rushed.


    ¡°Mother, this land still needs to be cleansed of evil. Perhaps if you do this the villagers will take care of you until I can provide.¡± To Sadko Ivan¡¯s words sounded hollow as many of the villagers already shouted consent to this plan.


    ¡°I could not accept payment for such work.¡± The woman wrung her hands suddenly complacent, ¡°Please, I only wish to see my new daughter in law so that I may inform her of the fools she has inherited.¡± Many of the women were at her side comforting her. They led her to the marriage hata. Everyone followed but Ivan and Sadko and a few of the village men.


    ¡°Sadko surely something must be done.¡± The village Tanner entreated. His dried stock had been providing for everyone for months, ¡°Elena¡¯s father is already burdened with her sick mother.¡±


    Ivan spoke deeply. ¡°You do not have enough here to support two strangers for nothing.  I shall take my mother and my new wife Elena and go.¡±


    Sadko sighed, ¡°Ivan you would crush the villagers'' hopes. By Elena¡¯s omen you are to be our new headman.  Talk to your mother, convince her to stay. We need strong hands more than ever. My father is a merchant. Perhaps, when he returns, we shall be better off.¡±


    ¡°We shall see.¡± was Ivan¡¯s unenthused response.


    They went to join the others in seeing Elena. She was blushing and making the bed that Ivan and she had slept in the night before. She had just finished telling Ivan¡¯s heroic tale to the old one. Contrary to her previous expression the old woman was glowing. Perhaps, this was with pride for her son. Elena still looked at her warily.


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    ¡°Does my ratty appearance frighten you child?¡± The old woman patted her arm.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s just the way you look at me. I beg your forgiveness. Perhaps, it is because events are still fresh in my head.¡± Elena shivered, ¡°It reminds me of some children I met.¡±


    ¡°I know of the kind you speak.¡± The woman¡¯s face turned grave.


    ¡°Elena! Elena!¡± A young boy pushed through the crowd. ¡°Your Father is dead!¡±


    Elena began to faint but Ivan was there to scoop her up tenderly.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Sadko turned to the boy.


    ¡°He was gutted by an animal... this morning! Elena¡¯s mother too is gone!¡± Some of the little children put their faces in their mother¡¯s skirts. Elena likewise buried her face into Ivan¡¯s shoulder. Her Father had wanted to stay home during the wedding to hold up the ruse that her mother was still ill, pretending to nurse a corpse covered in blankets.


    ¡°Come,¡± the woman dropped the cat to the floor and it bounded off. ¡°We shall rid this place of the curse upon it. Dear one, take me to the shrine.¡±


    Elena looked to Ivan and for a second time Sadko watched her turn strong. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Several hours later when they all reached the shrine it was intact yet things were missing. The little stone deity carvings were gone. ¡°It must have been those children. They had food from the shrine.¡± Elena frowned. ¡°The bear killed them.¡±


    ¡°The bear you say?¡± The old woman¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Pity, that means they are lost. The stones are no doubt hidden somewhere in these woods.¡± The villagers muttered after her conjecture.


    ¡°Fear not!¡± Ivan bellowed and they silenced. ¡°My mother shall have the answer!¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± his matron said confidently shifting and placing her hand on the stone. A sizzling noise and puff of smoke caused her to shriek and back away. ¡°Terrible! This place is terrible! It casts your land into a never ending winter! But-¡±she paused and sucked her fingers a bit holding the villagers in suspense. ¡°Destroy it, tear down every stone and bury them away from one another. Stop praying to this accursed place. Start praising yourselves. Life will begin anew. A never ending spring will take hold.¡±


    The men did not hesitate. They rushed by her and began tearing the crude structure apart. Only Sadko forestalled, ¡°This is a place of thanks to mother earth. To the elements that help us grow and learn. We have always come to this place for guidance and self meditation. It reminds us to keep all in balance.¡±


    ¡°And what has it gotten you?¡± The old one purred like the cat she once held.


    ¡°Sorrow,¡± Elena whispered. ¡°Still, my mother was a shrine maiden.¡±


    Ivan placed a hand on both their shoulders. ¡°These beings do not care for you Elena. They do not give. It¡¯s only those who learn how to take that survive.¡±


    ¡°And you need not carry the burden of your mother. You have another to bear.¡± The old woman¡¯s knuckled hand circled Elena¡¯s belly.


    Sadko gasped, ¡°So soon? How can you tell?¡±


    ¡°One such as I knows these things. I have acted as a midwife before.¡± Still her hand circled greedily even as Elena beamed. ¡°She shall be as strong and agile as my son and even more beautiful than her mother. Long have I waited for this, I am patient. I can wait a little longer.¡±


    ¡°I think the whole village should call you Babushka. Truly you have blessed all of us. You have brought us hope.¡± Elena smiled.


    ¡°In my language that means Grandmother.¡± Ivan said.


    And the cry was taken up and the old woman consented to the name.


    After the work was done they returned to the village Sadko made a choice.


    ¡°Perhaps you are right. Action must be taken.¡± Sadko said as he made his horse ready. ¡°I shall no longer stay here and wait for my father. I shall go seek him out. Ivan, will you watch over my forge and lands?¡±


    Elena gasped, ¡°Sadko, you are too generous.¡±


    ¡°We can no longer wait for supplies. Elena, I wish you and your new family well.¡±


    ¡°Thank-you,¡± Ivan shook his hand.


    ¡°Many, many good trails to you.¡± Grandmother hugged him and tapped his shoulder twice. Elena kissed his cheek. ¡°Remember our river.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡± Sadko blushed and quickly packed and went on his way.


    Elena¡¯s words were his refuge time and time again. For the trails on his journey seemed to split and multiply over and over. He found his father ill in a distant village and soon had to deal with a funeral. He managed to barter for a fair amount but once again became lost on the way back and seemed to struggle at every path that forked before him.  By the time he returned following the river with plenty of goods and wares the valley was totally changed. The sun was shining warm and everything was blooming. The fields were green and flourishing. Grandmother had her own garden built in the center of town where she and Elena could teach the children.


    ¡°She still feels a stranger though poor dear.¡± Elena told him upon return. Her belly all round and firm. ¡°She lives in a hata in the woods.  She prefers it to continue collecting wild herbs.¡±


    ¡°The woods are safe?¡± Sadko said with shock for once a wall had surrounded everything and it had been torn down for its wood to build a bigger meeting house. He paused adjusting the strings on his dulcimer; an instrument he had become quite skilled at playing during his travels.


    ¡°There is nothing to fear worse than the black hood of Ivan. He is a marvelous hunter. Tonight I am especially excited to see Grandmother for we are embroidering a beautiful hood for my child. Grandmother is certain and most pleased that it will be a girl.¡±


    Sadko felt weak and grief stricken, ¡°So there will be another to break the hearts of men.¡± He thought. Trying to smile he asked, ¡°What color will her hood be?¡±


    Elena touched a rose tree in the garden that she had planted in honor of her child. ¡°Red.¡±

 Little Red Hood

    Chapter 4 Little Red Hood


    Only a mild breeze to break the monotony of the sunlit day. These rustled leaves and disturbed the pollen from flowers. It distracted Rose¡¯s attention to a branch temporarily while the children slowly moved into the circle. She watched a fuzzy round caterpillar munching away at one of the plants nearby. It¡¯s beady round eyes intrigued her. Even its body looked like two sets of wiggly eyes. And all it did was munch, munch, munch.


    The children linked hands and spun in a circle while singing: ¡°To the edge we dare not go. Beware The Frost, beware the cold. In the darkness he does lie and creeps and stings the brittle air. Those he touches surely die. The ones who see his blue eye fair, Crackle, rustle, Crackle, Crackle, rustle.¡±


    Hilda fell dragging the others along with her.  At the end of the line, Rose simply let go and watched them all topple.  She sighed with frustration. ¡°Can we at least finish a song?¡±


    Hilda got up like a snorting ram. ¡°We did finish it! And I am tired! Besides, we should not sing about Frost anyway! He is stupid!¡±  The younger children helped each other up and looked around fearfully as if the wicked Frost would come out and snatch them right then. Rose was not afraid.


    In all the nine years she had lived she had never seen Frost or even felt a cold chill. She had never heard of hunger or felt its pangs beyond the slight rumblings just before the dinner horn. She lived in a little valley that was the warmest most beautiful place of all the nearby lands. And it was also the most boring.


    Most of the children here were much younger than Rose. All the older boys had left in search of fortune or wives. And the two eldest girls in town Hilda and Nina were close to their wedding ceremony in the neighboring yet far off village of Volpi. They were beastly girls and bragging bullies. During the day they herded all of the children around like cattle.


    Rose tried to obey them as best she could while her Mother was in the fields and her Grandmother in the garden. They seemed to like tormenting and teasing her. Grandmother said it was because they were jealous. For it was well known that she was growing up as lovely as her mother. Rose considered her age and thought more sensibly that it was because she was the headman¡¯s daughter.


    It was her position these two envied as well as the attention she got from all of the villagers. It was not as if Rose wished for the attention. Being the only child of her household was something of a sore subject. It grieved her Mother that her womb failed her. The strong and noble Ivan had no sons to carry on his name.


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    To add to this injury the other women of the town continually were bearing children one after the other. And since there was no scarcity of food or good weather families continued to sustain themselves well. They all pitied the circumstances of Ivan and Elena so everyone praised his one and only daughter whenever they could. After all, wasn''t it her lucky birth that changed the entire valley into a place of bliss?


    Ivan himself did not acknowledge the shame. Yet hardly too did he acknowledge his daughter. It was only his Mother that Ivan seemed eager to please. Of course with his wife he took comfort in her comforts and provided the basic needs. He never struck her and took care of whatever she asked. That alone was proof of his love to Elena. She tended not to want any part of thinking past the simple chores. Even from a young age Rose saw who his true confidant was so she not only respected but revered her Grandmother. All in the hopes that one day she could become half so wise. That was the only reason she behaved long enough to stay in the garden with the others, most days.


    Rose sighed because Nina had as usual latched onto her sister¡¯s avarice and was making up the difference of Hilda¡¯s panting with a long winded lecture. She often pointed at the small children for no reason except to see them nod obediently to her. Nina spoke so slowly, repetitively and loud that Rose often had visions of ringing her neck just to get her to spit out whatever point she thought she was making.


    ¡°That¡¯s right Rose. Remember, it is very wicked to speak of Frost. It might summon him. Hilda and I remember those terrible winters of long ago where as you do not. Besides we should all save our strength and take a nap. Remember, your Mother said that you could come and learn to cook dinner with us this afternoon. If you don¡¯t get some sleep like the rest of us you tend to get very grumpy remember.¡±


    ¡°What I do remember is that this is the third nap today.¡± Rose folded her arms and turned around. ¡°It used to be we only took one.¡±


    ¡°Well forgive us headman¡¯s daughter if we have disturbed your plans and disrupted the orders you have given us.¡± Hilda sat back down with a defiant plop.


    ¡°You can stand around all you want and wear yourself out. Our cooking will just turn out better than yours.¡± Nina added with a very phony yawn for the little children. Looking up at the sky, Rose realized it was not nearly the hottest part of the day. That was when Grandmother usually came out to the garden. It was when the bones in her legs hurt the least. It used to be the only time they took their nap. Rose was beyond well rested and more than agitated. She felt like exploring.


    Of course, the girls would not let her wander off on her own. Yet once she was gone they were often too lazy to really look for her. She squatted a bit so that her hooded cloak covered her calves and feet.


    ¡°I will sit here and wait for Grandmother to come.¡± She said stubbornly.


    ¡°Yes oh great daughter of the huntsman.¡± Nina said this time with a real yawn. Before the snoring even started Rose arranged her cloak on the branches before her just so. Unhooking the special silver clasp her Father had made for her she easily slid out and away. She crept around to the big bushes on the other side to see that her cloak continued to hover like a ghost image of her once crouching, pouting self. It tickled her that even the slight breeze helped the branches that held her puppet give the illusion of slight movement.

 Miller

    Chapter 5 Miller


    Rose crept stealthily out of the garden and out into the village. Stopping to admire some of the new structures her father had insisted on building. There were the bathing troths for the workers coming in from the fields and several more out houses. She used the great lodge as cover from the nursing mother¡¯s still waddling around their hatas¡¯ unable to aid in the field. Once it had only been a meeting house. Upon Ivan¡¯s insisting a great kitchen and stove were aligned to it and the whole village feasted there every night.


    Her mother was put in charge and made head cook. This delighted Elena to no end for it was her favorite thing to do. It was meant as a distraction from the misery of being barren. Yet sadly it only enhanced her exclusion from the fertile women of the town. They meant well to assist but as soon as their bellies were round they were given leave. That was why Sadko made the suggestion to have the older girls apprentice until they were to travel to Volpi and obtain their husbands.


    Rose stuck her tongue out at the kitchen. She would rather be a hunter like her Father and bring in great game and tell stories of tracking. Not sweat and cater over great ugly clay stoves.


    When she passed the fly swarmed butchers shack she plugged her nose. The Tanner next store heard the fluttering of fabric and looked up briefly. Rose already knew where to duck out of sight. The wind picked up and rustled some of his hanging bear hides. He grunted and went back to work.


    In some tall grass Rose spotted an abandoned egg. Knowing the sun would soon hit it and probably make it bad she pulled out the grass around it and picked it up carrying it in a little nest made in her hands. It was a large egg, much bigger than that of a hen¡¯s. She smiled knowing exactly where it belonged.


    Sadko was saddling his family''s old cart. It was already loaded down with much grain. He hummed a merry tune that was interrupted by much hissing and a little cry. He grabbed his staff and hurried to the back of his house. Rose was trying to climb up the rafters while kicking down the geese with her foot. Using his staff he frightened the geese away with much laughter.


    ¡°Do my eyes deceive me or is that my little Red hood, Without the hood I see.¡± He lightly stroked at a faded scar on his chin where a cat had got in a cheap swing.


    Rose looked rather panicked once she managed to turn around and face him.


    ¡°Sadko do not step on my egg!¡±


    ¡°You cannot mean this monstrosity?¡± Sadko had already caught sight of the great object. He teased her while he deftly picked it up.


    ¡°Why I believe it to be in my pasture. That makes it my egg you little thief.¡± He tossed it up once making her nervous.


    ¡°I was trying to give it back to you but they wouldn¡¯t let me! They are too stupid to know their own egg!¡± Once Sadko had set the egg safely in with some others he stretched out his arms and she jumped into them.


    ¡°That is because it isn¡¯t their egg look.¡± Sadko pointed after setting her down. Indeed the egg did look different from the others next to it.


    ¡°Oh,¡± Rose blushed; she was still fascinated by it.


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    ¡°No matter, they will still treat it as their own once it is placed and soon we will see what creature lives inside. Poor thing will think it is a goose though and never mate. Makes sense you brought it to my farm.¡± Sadko teased for he had never married and never would.


    ¡°I was just about to go out to the mill. Would you like to join me? I could use another set of hands.¡± Any other child in the village would have stuck out their tongue, and ran away at the very mention of helping to unload a cart. Rose was honored by the request and was already on the back of one of his horses leaning out to open its gate. ¡°Oh yes are we traveling the long way by the river?¡±


    ¡°Naturally, I would get lost going through any other part of the woods.¡±


    ¡°Can I jump the horses bareback a few times before you halter them?¡± She looked up at him with pleading eyes.


    ¡°Look around good and thoroughly for your parents first; at least I die at a youthful age.¡±


    The journey to the mill did not take long. Sadko was always a merry company. He told tales of his travels and made silly faces. ¡°Sadko your adventures with your horses were so grand why ever did you return?¡± Rose twisted her hair.


    ¡°Well, I thought our people were still hungry and I could never truly leave my little river.¡±


    ¡°You were among huge ships and great traders!¡± Rose argued aghast.


    ¡°Still there is nothing like my little river.¡± Sadko smiled that deep sad smile he sometimes had. Rose still did not understand it.


    ¡°Here we are!¡± He announced as they pulled up to the lumpy looking building that was the mill. Out came a stout little man with a long beard followed by a cat.


    ¡°Catkin how is it you wandered out so far?!¡± Rose climbed down quickly to retrieve her Grandmother¡¯s pet. The man across from her was a little shorter than she.


    ¡°Blasted thing, keeps getting under my feet! I think it¡¯s trying to kill me! Your Grandmother loaned it to me to keep the mice away. Give her my thanks.¡±


    ¡°Little man I¡¯ve guessed your name.¡± Rose smiled


    ¡°Oh have you?¡± The little dwarf smiled wickedly.


    ¡°I think it''s Fennel.¡± Sadko teased while carrying the grain into the mill.


    ¡°You are wrong!¡± The little miller curled the tip of his beard with pleasure between his thumb and forefinger. Sadko tossed him a coin on his way out of the mill.


    ¡°Well you¡¯re all wrinkly and rumpled so I think it¡¯s...¡±  Rose squinted at him to see his reaction.


    For a moment the little man held his breath.


    ¡°Prunance you know, like a prune.¡± Rose mused.


    At this both men burst out laughing. Sadko nearly dropped his grain.


    ¡°Rose the name is Prudence and that is a girl¡¯s name!¡± Sadko began.


    ¡°It does not matter.¡± The dwarf held up his hand. ¡°I did say she could guess any name.¡± He leaned in with a sparkling eye. ¡°You got it wrong so pay up!¡±


    Rose dug into her pocket with a sigh. ¡°I found this today in Grandmother¡¯s garden.¡± She dropped her little treasure into his hand ruefully. A deal was a deal.


    ¡°Not bad, I might have some use for a gold thimble.¡± The little dwarf even placed it in his mouth and bit on it a little. ¡°Well this is excellent. I shall add it to my collection.¡± He pocketed it swiftly.


    Sadko felt he was being unfair to include Rose in this little game he had going with the entire village. Sadko had been gone when the little man informed the valley that he would be delivering mead and taking over for the old man that died. There was much distrust. Being a stranger that would not give out his name would normally not go over well. Ivan seemed to know him from years past so the strange slight was overlooked.


    Rose suddenly turned around and realized Sadko was unloading all the grain without her help. Sadko laughed to see the conflict in her eyes. ¡°It is fine just you keep a hold of that cat. If I don¡¯t get you both back by noon your Grandmother will throw a fit.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have more mead ready for you tomorrow.¡± The dwarf grunted and lit a pipe.


    ¡°More, surely we have enough. We already poured four barrels into the ground that went bad.¡± Sadko said bewildered.


    ¡°Exactly they went bad, so Ivan demanded I give him good stock.¡± The dwarf snorted.


    ¡°Well I guess it really doesn¡¯t matter. I have nothing better to do.¡± Sadko shrugged, ¡°I¡¯ll be back tomorrow then. Come on Rose I¡¯m finished.¡±


    ¡°Bye Prune!¡± Rose laughed as she climbed back in next to Sadko.


    ¡°That¡¯s not my name pay up!¡± He shouted back. She threw a pebble at him and he quickly pocketed it.

 Big Ears

    Chapter 6 Big Ears


    ¡°Sadko, why do you suppose my Father keeps buying mead from the miller if it just goes bad?¡± Rose mused while randomly hitting the strings on his dulcimer trying to make it play a song for her. Sadko liked her curiosity. one day it would make her a wise woman.


    ¡°Well the men in our village are heavy drinkers each night. I also suspect your Babushka likes him to dump it into the ground.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Rose put the instrument back in the case to pick up her curled up cat. She touched noses with Catkin and laid him on his back to rub his belly. The cat fought this but only a little with Rose. Other than Grandmother she was the only one whom he seemed contented with all the time.


    ¡°Well I don¡¯t know a healer¡¯s art to be truthful. I¡¯ve seen her scratching out symbols in the earth and it just so happens that these places are where he dumps the mead. Otherwise I know nothing about it. Perhaps you should ask your Grandmother and see what you can find out.¡±


    The old woman stepped out of the bushes and Sadko had to change course swiftly or risk trampling her. The whole cart leaned dangerously on two wheels while Rose laughed up in the air. As the cart came down with a thud the horses reared and stopped a hair¡¯s breadth from some trees on the path. They shuttered and complained bitterly amongst themselves.


    ¡°My ears are burning!¡± Babushka shouted and tapped a wheel with her pestle that made quite the noise before she placed it in her basket. Before Sadko could even get his vision straight she was beginning to climb into the cart. She was dirty from herb hunting and covered with moss she blinked and wheezed like an old mole coming out into the light. Her basket smelled of plants, spices and baked goods.


    Rose helped her Grandmother into the back of the cart. The old woman kept her basket of curiosities well out of reach so the child could not inspect it.


    ¡°Healer I hope you can work miracles on yourself for I almost hit you!¡± Sadko exclaimed.


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    ¡°Sadko Babushka¡¯s said her ears were burning. That means she knows someone¡¯s talking about her behind her back. Who is it Grandmother?¡± Rose asked rather noisily.


    Grandmother reached over and held Rose¡¯s ear with terrible pinching fingers.


    ¡°It was you child! Not only were you talking about me but sneaking about into the woods with an older man besides! Where is the cloak of protection your mother and I made for you? Why are you not in the garden with the other children?¡± She released the appendage with the final question. Rose put her hand to the smart. She was certain it was going to swell.


    ¡°Babushka I had to escape! That garden is so boring!¡± Seeing her Grandmother¡¯s look of affront she chose her words more carefully. ¡°I mean when you¡¯re not there to work on it with me. Those other children do not do anything!¡±


    ¡°What about the older girls, are they not treating you better?¡± Grandmother raised a brow.


    ¡°Ugh, all they wish to talk of are frivolous things like recipes and frills to sew onto their dresses.¡± Rose tried peeking into the basket again but with a sly smile her Grandmother covered it with a handkerchief.


    ¡°Recipes fill those girl¡¯s dresses enough they have no need to embellish.¡± Grandmother snorted as Rose giggled. ¡°Do not mock them too much, child for one day those things shall interest you.¡± She tapped Rose¡¯s shoulder three times with her pestle as she spoke.


    ¡°Besides, now that is no way to talk of our neighbors.¡±  Sadko smiled broadly before getting smacked in the back of the head. ¡°Good neighbors do not abduct other people¡¯s Granddaughters either, Sadko the merchant. How am I to know you would not sell her for a pretty penny down the road?¡±


    ¡°I do not think she would fetch much.¡± Sadko teased and ducked another swipe to the head this time from Rose.


    ¡°Sit down!¡± Grandmother grabbed Rose¡¯s hand, ¡°Before you fall and injure yourself!¡±


    Rose was surprised after all her Grandmother¡¯s ranting to get pulled into a hug.


    ¡°Dear child, you are priceless to me. I would pay dearly for you.¡± She stroked Rose¡¯s hair and against her chest Rose could feel her breathing in deeply.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Grandmother held her shoulders while pushing her away. ¡°If you continue to take off your hood I will no longer teach you any lessons about the plants and other things!¡±


    ¡°Oh you do not mean it!¡± Rose practically wailed.


    ¡°I mean it! I will not teach a fool who cannot keep track of their own clothes.¡± Grandmother folded her arms sternly.


    ¡°Punish me not the child. I am the one who took her.¡± Sadko entreated.


    ¡°You are to take me on my rounds today. It was cold last night and my bones still ache.¡±


    ¡°He does that everyday; how is that punishment?¡± Rose muttered.


    ¡°Oh trust me, it is punishment.¡± Sadko whispered, ¡°Ouch!¡± This time it was the mortar that hit the back of his head. Rose¡¯s laughter rang through the wood.

 Mortar and Pestle

    Chapter 7 Mortar and Pestle


    Rose watched the pestle carefully as it rolled around in the mortar. Her Grandmother had just added some more herbs to crush but her hand was not moving it. It spun because of the motion of the cart. Once they entered the village and began passing the small homes the rolling stopped and so too did Sadko at Grandmother¡¯s command. The pregnant women waddled out of their homes with great enthusiasm eager to get their hands on the goodies in Grandmother¡¯s basket. Each of them saying something different yet similar.


    ¡°Oh how I have been craving your greens Grandmother.¡±


    ¡°My garden will grow nothing like them!¡±


    ¡°Have you any of those beans today?¡±


    ¡°I simply feel ill after eating anything else.¡±


    In the meantime they traded with things of practicality. One woman gave her some sturdy rope. This was a rather pointless gift as Grandmother wove the finest. She had recently just taught Rose how. Grandmother quickly tied it around her middle as a belt. The next gave Grandmother a shovel. Rose marveled at that because it was the third her Grandmother had acquired. The first she had taken home just a few days ago. The second she had given to mother to use in the kitchens as an oven paddle. This was solely to be used in the garden. She did her midwives duty of seeing to all the women¡¯s physical needs asking important questions about their health. Once in a while, she asked Rose to help sweep for them or hang herbs or some oddity on the wall. If Sadko hadn¡¯t been there it all would have been terribly boring. Rose was diligent and listened carefully to everything her Grandmother said.


    There was a bit of upset at three different homes. The first was at the home of Hilda and Nina¡¯s mother. Grandmother immediately spoke her mind on their watchful diligence.


    ¡°So Natasha your girls have yet to come home to you and fess up that they have lost a child.¡± Grandmother pulled Rose forward by the hand.


    ¡°Lost, the way they tell it this one wanders away all by herself.¡± Snorted Natasha, she scratched at a huge boil that had started growing on her neck only last week.


    ¡°That may be so but it is their duty to keep her away from danger and out of the woods.¡±


    ¡°Hah she is fine! She barely left home!¡± Natasha glanced at Sadko guessing the events that happened.


    ¡°One day when your children are lost in the woods I will tell you not to worry because they barely left home. And then I shall slam the door in your face.¡± The pestle began spinning once more on its own while Grandmother pointed two ominous fingers. When the pestle stopped Sadko and Natasha blinked with curious blank stares.


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    Grandmother pulled out some great smelling cookies. ¡°For your girls later to show that I bear no true grudge.¡±


    ¡°I thank you.¡± Natasha took the plate greedily and slammed the door.


    ¡°And may they continue to grow ugly like you.¡± Grandmother murmured.


    The next house was not a bit of surprise, Marousha was a sopping wet face of tears and agony, ¡°Please no thank-you Grandmother.¡±


    She tried to shut the door politely but Grandmother stuck in her foot. ¡°Ah child why are you so sad tell Babushka.¡±


    ¡°I must not. Please go.¡± Marousha whimpered.


    ¡°Is he beating you Marousha? Just let me know.¡± Sadko said firmly.


    ¡°No, no it is not that it is just that¡­I simply, I simply don¡¯t wish to be pregnant anymore.¡± Babies began to cry in the hut within, the bundle in her stomach would be her twelve.


    ¡°To me, that is a terrible thing to say given my daughter in law¡¯s predicament. Think of how blessed you are.¡± Grandmother shook her head.


    ¡°I know and I am sorry. There is just something about this that is wrong. My mother and grandmother were terrible at giving birth. By all rights I should be dead yet I am not! Oh, sometimes I wish I was!¡±


    ¡°Oh so that is it. You have a survivor¡¯s guilt. And it is very common for women to be emotional after so many changes on their body. Let me in and I shall make you some tea to calm your nerves.¡±


    As soon as Grandmother entered the crying of all the babies stopped instantly. Still Marousha¡¯s face continued to show strain and fear. Sadko told Rose to stay outside with him while they talked. He sighed.


    ¡°If only you¡¯re Mother could change fates with Marousha.¡± Sadko plucked out a soft breezy tune.


    Rose saw no sense in that and she said so. ¡°Such wishing just brings reverse sorrow. Better to accept life as it is given to you and learn to toughen up and survive.¡± In the distance she heard her Father¡¯s horn and filled with pride. Sadko filled with remorse.


    The final woman Nula was so heavy she could not move from her bed. Together they all lifted her and changed her sheets and opened the windows for a breeze.


    ¡°When do you think the time will come?¡± Nula asked uncomfortably.


    ¡°Well you are already past due in a few days time if you do not contract I shall induce the labor. Do not be frightened dear this has been a common thing in the village this past year. The baby is so happy in the womb it will not wish to come out!¡±


    ¡°I think there may be two of them; the kicking is so fierce.¡± The woman gasped as they placed more pillows behind her.


    ¡°That would be lucky, more than likely he is just big. That¡¯s right it is a boy I can tell, for he sits so low.¡± After leaving the last house she muttered, ¡°Such trouble today I shall hardly have any time at all in my garden.


    ¡°The village is thriving not just because of your hard work in the garden, old mother.¡± Sadko waved goodbye as he dropped them off. Grandmother only grunted.


    ¡°Babushka you should be nicer to Sadko. He is nice to you.¡± Rose said after he rolled away. ¡°Not while my ears still burn child; Mark my words that wandering fool is a meddler. He meddles in your upbringing too much. I do like that he trains you on his horses. As long as he stays useful I shall keep him around. Go ahead into the garden and wake the other children. There is much to be done before supper.¡±

 Rose Red

    Chapter 8 Rose Red


    ¡°Curse that wretched bear! That tramper! That thief! When your Father puts his hands upon that trickster I hope he skins him alive!¡± With a splash Rose¡¯s Grandmother found her foot sunken up to the ankle in a large paw print puddle.


    It was true the garden had been tampered with during the cold wee early hours of the morning. Rose had her own suspicions. Her Grandmother¡¯s one flaw and perhaps senile leave of senses came whenever there was damage in her garden. Every time she blamed a bear which had been wandering the woods since before Rose was born. According to her it was a witty creature who liked to leave patterns of destruction in its wake. Rose had learned many things from her Father about how to track and hunt. From what she could see there were several culprits, not just one. The damage seemed too random and too small in some places. A nibble here and tearing there and sometimes it was only cold that had damaged a plant. Not that there was not a bear. There was clear evidence of that today.


    ¡°My liquorish lacerated! My skullcap squashed!¡± Grandmother wailed. ¡°He knows that I use these for my arthritis!¡±


    This was why Rose had avoided telling Babushka earlier about this catastrophic news. She could lament for hours over a leaf and often did for occurrences like this would happen almost every morning.


    The children and Grandmother were almost done repairing the damage. She let the little ones start to pick berries while the two older girls had been sent off to churn butter. Rose was up to her arms in mud digging out worms and beetles and planting at her Grandmother¡¯s request. It was a mild punishment since she wasn¡¯t wearing her hood, fortunately Rose enjoyed this chore. She merely pretended to sulk while doing it. Her Grandmother caught her smiling though and smeared more mud on her face for fun. ¡°Not so smug.¡±


    ¡°Rose!¡± Elena exclaimed and it made Rose jump.


    Her mother looked both exasperated and amused. ¡°You were to try to stay as clean as possible today so you could come help me in the kitchen with dinner!¡± Normally her mother would come in fresh and bathed after rinsing off the work of the fields and give her a big hug. Today she stood her distance as she smiled warmly.


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    The children dumped their berry finds into the half barrels lying around for collecting and ran to their various parents¡¯ arms. Many a woman or man was dodging smeary, sticky kisses. The hunter¡¯s horn sounded Rose¡¯s heart pounded with delight.


    ¡°Father¡¯s home!¡± she began to run, caught by her collar. ¡°Not until you clean up young lady!¡± Her mother said as firmly as she could.


    ¡°I shall take Rose to bathe. Then perhaps you will join us for dinner? I am going to wear that lovely dress you made me?¡± Elena asked Grandmother hopefully.


    ¡°Nay there is such noise in that lodge one cannot even concentrate on chewing.¡± Grandmother sighed. ¡°Perhaps if I had more teeth I might reconsider. Still I am pleased you like the dress and wear it anyway, for Ivan.¡±


    Elena nodded respectfully; she knew Grandmother was embarrassed to eat in front of others. ¡°Well we shall bring you a plate later you shall see it on me then.¡±


    ¡°Good as it is, the breeze picking up is stinging my legs. I must make my journey home. Before I go Rose we must check our tree mustn¡¯t we?¡±


    Happy to be released from her Mother¡¯s grip Rose reached out and took her Grandmother¡¯s hand. Elena followed with a quiet smile as they took a secret path through the garden that led to two lovely little trees. Grandmother said she had kept the white rose tree for a long time. It was small and looked hardly bigger than a branch stuck upright in the ground. Still it had lots of leaves and several buds.


    Rose sighed when she saw them. ¡°Mine hardly has any buds on it.¡±


    ¡°That is not what I see.¡± Grandmother threw Rose¡¯s red hood over her trees and when she removed it one single rose was opened. It was barely pink and it fell to the ground and its petals all scattered.


    ¡°You were right much too soon¡± Grandmother murmured, she picked up a petal and compared it to the hue of Rose¡¯s hair. Though her hair had light red highlights it was mostly brown.


    For some reason Grandmother forcing a rose to bloom and die had made Rose sad. Elena saw this and chanced hugging her mud and all. ¡°Darling if you continue to work hard in the garden and wear your hood the roses will bloom faster for you I am sure.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right and soon they will be deep and dark colored. It will be marvelous.¡±


    Grandmother¡¯s eyes sparkled as she stroked Rose¡¯s hair. Suddenly with renewed energy she pulled something from her goodies basket and tossed it to Elena. It was a gourd.


    ¡°It is filled with goat¡¯s milk, pour this on the child¡¯s skin when you bathe her and she will be soft as a babe come morning.¡± Grandmother pinched her nose. The moment was spoiled for Rose.

 Shadow of the Wolf

    Chapter 9 Shadow of the Wolf


    Rose was not a lazy child. She did purposely work slowly when setting the tables so she could listen in on the details of the hunt. The men roasted two large wild boars they had captured outside the lodge doors and laughed and muttered together. The stories would grow very large and embellished at the dinner table but at this moment the men spoke plainly about what should have been done as opposed to the other methods that went into the capture of dinner. Since Rose hoped to be a good tracker one day these details interested her more than a good yarn.


    Her Father was washing up after skinning and skewering the boars. Even if he were in the group Rose knew he would say nothing. Though all the men of the village pleaded with him to explain his skills he merely would shrug them off. Mother had said for years he had tried. No man really took the time to practice what he spoke so finally he gave up. There were no youths in the village eager to learn either. For in the fierce battles over the many winters the strongest and bravest had been lost.


    From what Rose gathered from this hunt was that a pack of wild boars was uncovered by the men and they were forced to scatter and climb some trees. Ivan stood his ground and speared one boar while also forcing it to higher ground where he caught sight of a bear and abandoned the other men for a better hunt. Marousha¡¯s husband Denny had speared another boar and got a nasty chunk taken out of his calf for his part.


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    ¡°Luck was with us, it could have been worse.¡± Denny rubbed his bandaged leg.


    ¡°I still say if Ivan had stayed things would have gone differently.¡± The Tanner stoked the fire as he spoke. ¡°His obsession with bears is a little unnerving.¡±


    ¡°He is only trying to please his mother.¡± Sadko basted the beasts a little more, having just come from the kitchen with sauce from Elena.


    ¡°That too is unnerving.¡± the Tanner muttered.


    ¡°You hardly go on the hunts anymore you old coward. You still fear monsters in the woods.¡± Rose meant this comment not to be heard however the old Tanner stood up casting a shadow into the lodge.


    ¡°The woods are always to be feared little one. The kind of monster your Father once killed will come again for they do not wander alone nor come at you ignorantly. They can trap as we trap. Plan as we plan. They can seduce you in with a whine and then before you know it the pack has circled you. Bears hah! Come winter a bear is gone. It is Kerwolves I fear and so should you.¡± His hands shaped shadows with big frightening teeth. Rose was more frightened of the man¡¯s own pale and clammy expression. He believed what he spoke.


    ¡°Enough sallow talk! The Frost is held at bay! Father Winter¡¯s terrible reign is at an end!¡± Ivan¡¯s voice boomed and made the old man jump. Rose ran to her Father and hugged his leg. He only patted her head. ¡°Go tell your mother to sound the call for dinner.¡± Rose did as bid giving one last peak through the door as her Father opened a keg and filled a flagon. He toasted with the others after gathering up their own glasses of mead echoed him. She found it curious that Tanner eagerly drank with her Father while Sadko turned away and looked up at the moon.

 Izboushka

    Chapter 10 Izboushka


    Elena packed up in a tied handkerchief, a special pirog for Grandmother. It was baked with all the delicious tender pieces of meat Ivan had put aside for her alone. ¡°Your Father will meet us later when he is done discussing with the men.¡±


    Rose noticed her Mother pulling out some more bread and wrapping it. This was smaller. She quickly peeked in at the contents when her mother turned away.  It was a pirojki that smelled of mint and fruit. ¡°Mother, those two cakes together are too much for Grandmother to eat.¡±


    ¡°This evening I have something special to show you.¡± She handed the bread to Rose. ¡°Come along quickly we must not let anyone see.¡±


    Rose was intrigued; her mother had never been secretive about anything.They started through the fields. A different route than they usually took to Grandmother¡¯s house. The evening was nice. The sun was just beginning its downward descent not yet ready to be in bed. It made everything have a lovely warm glow.


    ¡°Everything sparkles in the evening Mother. Look at the water, even the grass.¡± Rose pointed. Elena sighed with a deep nostalgic look.


    ¡°When it used to snow it was beautiful in the fields. It looked like a whole different kind of forest. And the world would sparkle all day long and make noises that crunch or whistle, tunes to the wind.¡± Elena spun as she had not in a long time, like she was Rose¡¯s age.


    ¡°Mother do you miss Father Winter?¡± Rose asked amazed;


    ¡°I do not.¡± Elena said firmly, though her eyes were cloudy. She began to sound as if she were reciting. ¡°Winter is deceiving, its looks are very enticing yet it will cling to you until your heart no longer beats. It will take away everything you love expecting you to carry on. When I think of winter I get a chill.¡±


    Rose saw her mother turn her face away to drop a single tear as was her custom. And then she would shed no more for the rest of the day. Soon her Mother perked up giving her a wistful smile. ¡°I do miss certain things about winter like sliding and building tables and caves of snow.¡±


    Rose stared at her blankly and Elena enthusiastically explained how this was done the rest of the way. Not ever seeing snow, it was very hard for Rose to understand. The best she could make out was that it was like mud. She did not notice that from the fields they were wandering down a grown over path along the edge of the woods. This was the most interesting conversation she had ever had with her mother in her entire life.


    ¡°Well we are here.¡± Elena looked around hesitantly as if she thought they had been followed. ¡°Rose, I have waited a long time to show you this.¡± Elena pulled back some branches to show a little shrine made of white stones, three wide flat river stones and several smaller. Some dried flowers lay in the little square that was made by them. Elena removed the flowers and took the pirojki from Rose and placed it inside. Speaking in a strange language she prayed, it was very brief, and Rose felt uncomfortable until she finished.


    Elena looked at her with a new calm glow instead of her usual nervous energy.


    ¡°The reason I waited to show you this is because I wanted you to understand it is a secret. This is a giving thanks shrine built by my Mother long ago. I know that our old deity shrine turned out to be housed by demons. This is different. I would never tear down this shrine. I could never consider it evil for it was built out of love for all life. I fear if I showed this to your Grandmother and Father they would not understand. They would consider me ignorant and the village might think me stupid. If the village thought I was endangering our life they might come up with a punishment that is severe. They could chase away our whole family.¡±


    ¡°Then why come here and do this?¡± Rose spoke at last.


    ¡°Your Grandparents¡¯ bodies were lost. They were dragged away by animals. I consider this my mother¡¯s grave. I have the power to worship deities here yes. I do not, excepting sometimes to give thanks to Fedor who led your Father to me.¡±


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    Rose had remembered once her mother trying to tell her that story... Grandmother continually interrupting and shushing her perhaps thinking it inappropriate for a child.


    ¡°You would have loved your other Grandmother too.¡± Her Mother looked back to the shrine seeming to have read her thoughts. ¡°She was fiery, powerful and from a good stock. Her kin were priestesses before they even knew the meaning of the word. If only I could have burned her body properly.¡±


    ¡°If you had stayed with her mother, you would be dead too.¡± Rose knelt beside her.


    ¡°Rose,¡± Her Mother said sternly. ¡°If you do not wish to do this with me you have a choice. I will not bring you here anymore or teach you the old language. I only wish to be truthful with you and then perhaps someday when I die you may visit this place for me. Only¡­ do not tell anyone.¡±


    Rose considered a moment with her pout set in a funny quizzical manner. ¡°There is a language?¡±


    Elena¡¯s heart filled with joy. Lately she had felt alone and abandoned. Jealousy had crept in at the sight of Rose taking her Grandmother¡¯s hand more eagerly than her own mothers. Perhaps she only had one child yet it was her child. They talked long until the sky grew too dim and she knew they must hurry or be late in meeting her husband on the path. Rose gasped as they ran.


    ¡°Here we are love.¡± Her Mother smiled stopped abruptly and became nervous when she saw Ivan coming up the path.


    ¡°Well met wife. Well met daughter.¡± Ivan did not stop and went right past them expecting them to fall in tow.


    Rose thought to herself, ¡°He does not know. We are so close to the edge of the wood he does not think we would dare go all the way in without him.¡±


    Since this part of the walk was routine Rose became comfortable again. She skipped behind her Father as always. It was her Mother Elena who looked terribly out of sorts. Rose realized what her Mother was nervous about. It was that Rose might say something or give it away.


    ¡°I will not say anything to Grandmother or Father.¡± Rose resigned herself. Yet as she thought this thought her nose began to throb terribly right where her Grandmother had pinched it. Elena gave a nervous laugh and Ivan looked at her sideways.


    ¡°Dear, do you think these woods look different every time we go to your Mother¡¯s house? It is almost like we take a different path every time.¡± Elena fidgeted.


    ¡°Ah my love you always get so turned around in these woods. It is just the heat from those ovens today that has addled your mind.¡± His sardonic humor had no mirth in its tone as usual Elena smiled for him anyway and took a few extra steps so she could kiss his cheek as if he had just complimented her instead of calling her witless.


    Rose looked around and she felt that somehow her mother was right. Last time they had passed twin ferns and an old tree that had split and twisted around itself. She saw none of it this time and soon they were before Grandmother¡¯s gate.


    The gate was taller than Ivan for it was Ivan who built it for her. It creaked something terrible when it was opened and in fact it seemed that the whole fence made noise for it was all metal and jointed in appearance. Even the great painted wooden knobs atop the pikes sometimes gave a false appearance of skull faces to the corner of Rose¡¯s eyes recently, yet when she looked directly they were just soft decoration. It surrounded the whole house not easily seen for it was covered in moss and vines. There were white birch trees that stood like javelins pointing skyward on either side of the path leading up to her home. Their branches swung more freely than any other tree Rose had seen. Once Elena had commented that it looked instead like hair blowing in the wind.


    This path split off into three. The two farthest and opposite leading to Grandmother¡¯s private tiny little bath and outhouses on either side. Rose was never allowed to bathe alone least the little Bannik¡¯s (Water imps) come to steal her away. Those roads were still only dirt the straight cobble path in the center had much more care put into it.


    Izbushka Father called the main building and claimed that it was the way they rounded the path that caused its appearance to turn and stare at them suspiciously. Outlandish to Rose for it seemed to be built upon stilts, broad beams actually that from a distance looked like the legs of a chicken. And though the house was at least another house high the path led right up to the door. The design was very smooth and the incline not steep at all, just gradual and long from the beginning of the gate until the door. All sorts of herbs, flowers, fruits, vegetables hung drying off of the windows and rafters.


    The heavy smell of hickory and incense trickled down from the smoke of the rooftop. When one got closer the strong scents of ginger, liquorice and cinnamon lingered in the air. When the door opened everyone was nearly blasted away from the heat inside. Yet Grandmother was up and about without a sweat. She was always sewing or weaving at her loom or pulling off a pan of fresh cookies from over the heated coals. ¡°Do you come of your own free wills?¡± She would always ask. In jest her Father would say sulkily, ¡°No.¡± Rose and her Mother would beam ¡°Yes!¡± Tonight Elena said nothing and shuttered. With concern her Grandmother scolded.


    ¡°Elena you are shivering. I told you not to let that chill follow you.¡±

 Big Eyes

    Chapter 11 Big Eyes


    She turned and smiled her toothless smile at them. ¡°They turned out just right.¡± Referring to the cookies, ¡°All of you look fresh after your evening walk.¡±


    ¡°Not I,¡± said Ivan as he sat down and kicked off his boots. Rose mouthed his words while she habitually picked up his boots and put them by the fireplace. Unlike his fighting skills her Father was very predictable with his words. ¡°I have been walking all day so I am not fresh at all.¡±


    Elena gave Rose a mirthful glance as she hung up both their hoods. Grandmother, completely ignoring her son¡¯s complaints glanced longingly at Elena¡¯s white hood while stroking Rose¡¯s hair. If only I could have duplicated that thread.¡±


    ¡°Oh Grandmother this thing is so old. It has been in my family for years. I just cannot part with it.¡± Quite naturally Elena had switched places with her and was getting the cookies to fall onto a plate.


    ¡°Ginger.¡± Rose wrinkled her nose.


    ¡°You love ginger.¡± Grandmother waved a hand to repel the nonsense that had just been thrown at her.


    ¡°Not since you told her that it will make her into a woman faster.¡± Ivan grunted.


    Seeing Rose¡¯s cheeks go red Elena shushed him.


    ¡°Well what is wrong with being a beautiful young woman? I miss it.¡± Grandmother chuckled and sat as Elena brought her cushy chair away from the loom and to the table.


    ¡°Ugh I will not be able to hunt or fight or catch anything if I must be a wife. I shall just get round and fat.¡± Rose grabbed three cookies, stuffing one into her pocket Grandmother grabbed one back with a reflex that still surprised Elena after so many years. ¡°That is how you get fat my dear.¡±


    ¡°Oh I never get as heavy as the others.¡± Rose announced with youthful pride as Elena bit her lip and took the bread from Ivan setting it on the cutting board near the stove.


    ¡°That is because you exercise in the morning with your Father and walk here in the evenings with your mother.¡± She winked and reached out to hand back the cookie.  Suddenly her face dropped as Rose leaned over the table to take the cookie from her.


    ¡°Your face, it looks more swollen than usual today.¡±


    ¡°Babushka, do not jest I told you I shall not get fat.¡± Rose reached again for the cookie that was being held just far enough away from her.


    ¡°Have you done any extra walking today child? Come across new flowers? When I look at you closely both your noses are awfully red.¡± Grandmother¡¯s eyes narrowed as she looked back and forth between Elena and Rose.


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    ¡°As a matter of fact we were picking flowers.¡± Elena turned her back to the woman to put up the pan. The mortar and pestle fell over on the table.


    ¡°Hmm, bad luck I was crushing pepper.¡± Grandmother spat. Ivan took a pinch and threw it over his shoulder. ¡°Where are the flowers? I would like to dry them.¡±


    ¡°Mother and I got to talking and we forgot them.¡± Rose piped in rather loudly.


    ¡°And what was so distracting that this poor old woman does not get flowers? Perhaps, your Mother was speaking to you of Sadko?¡±


    Ivan¡¯s fists clenched and Rose¡¯s face turned red. Elena¡¯s face could not be seen for she was still turned towards the cutting board near the oven slicing Grandmother¡¯s bread.


    ¡°No,¡± Rose¡¯s eyes turned, pleading she did not wish for her Grandmother to tell her Father she had driven through the edge of the woods with Sadko. Grandmother placed the mortar upright and waited for explanation.


    ¡°We spoke of Father Winter of the cold days.¡± Rose bit into a cookie quickly stuffing her mouth.


    Elena quickly turned around, placing down Grandmother¡¯s plate. ¡°I told her how I despised Father Winter for taking everything from me¡±. She went around and placed a hand on Ivan¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I told her I did not miss it.¡± Grandmother watched the mortar and pestle carefully than nodded as it seemed the meal looked appetizing to her. She began eating it with her fingers.


    ¡°Yes, ugly enough that we must deal with the Frost. Such a being is terrible enough sneaking in upon our repose destroying our crops and gardens. You would do well to listen to your Mother and always fear winter.¡± Ivan spoke with a knowing eye on his child.


    ¡°It is the Frost who pains my bones and brings in this awful chill.¡± Grandmother agreed.


    ¡°Father did the new traps for the bear work today? The men did not say.¡± Rose was done with the subject and ready to move on to one of interest. Yet her Grandmother seemed to smile as if she had said something funny.


    ¡°No and the bear got away from me.¡± Ivan lit his pipe. ¡°I am sorry Mother if it helps I have determined the cool pools where he could be feeding. It will not be long.¡±


    ¡°You killed nearly every bear in the forest, is one really doing so much harm?¡± Elena entreated.


    ¡°Your sympathy for that creature is misplaced wife. What do you think it was that dragged your parents away? A man eater is a man eater and needs to be destroyed.¡±


    Elena said no more.


    ¡°Father let me help you catch the bear!¡± Rose poured some milk into a cup to finish her cookie.


    ¡°Absolutely not,¡± Ivan took the rest of the pitcher of milk from her and began to drink it down.


    ¡°I think it is a wonderful idea. Rose can lay traps so long as she only puts them in the garden.¡± Grandmother¡¯s lips smacked as she spoke.


    ¡°And so long as she warns the children. You must tell them where you place the traps Rose.¡± Elena added and Ivan grunted.


    ¡°Does that mean Nina and Hilda too? They are not children.¡± Rose said with a wicked smile.


    ¡°Yes, Nina and Hilda, they are still the daughters of our neighbors even if they are no longer children to themselves...¡± Elena lectured smiling. Grandmother laughed and she looked at Rose proudly. ¡°Come child help me to bed! You are after all after my own flesh and blood.¡± Elena went over and dotingly wiped her wrinkled face with a cloth.


    Rose did as bid for she was old enough, taking pride in the job. She tucked Grandmother in and kissed her on the cheek. She smelled of burning hickory wood coals.


    ¡°What will we do tomorrow Babushka?¡± Rose whispered excitedly.


    ¡°Why tomorrow I will practice with you how to make a goodies basket. That way you can carry all your traps and trinkets back and forth. It will carry as much as you will need and nothing you do not.¡±


    Rose hugged her. ¡°One day I hope I grow to be just like you.¡±


    As they waved goodbye Grandmother pulled up the covers and closed her eyes ¡°Me too,¡±

 Chosen Path

    Chapter 12 Chosen path


    Once outside the door Ivan took his silver axe from off of his back and offered to put Rose there instead. Elena lit a lamp that he would bring back in the morning yet tonight it was her sacred vigil. This brought forth another memory of her mother, lighting the way to the winter solstice. Would winter ever come again? She was not really wishing for it. It was just this climate for so many years near the mountains that was strange.


    Rose had fallen asleep the instant her head hit her Father¡¯s shoulder. All was quiet except for a distant howl which disturbed Ivan only a little when he turned to see which direction it was coming from. Since he continued on Elena took more courage from his silence than from anyone who might want to fill the night with useless chatter. So she was very surprised when he did speak.


    ¡°Elena I am very angry with you for not taking the path I told you today.¡± His footsteps were making less noise than hers.


    ¡°Why husband? We were not hurt. I only came by the edge near the fields.¡± Elena found it stranger still his attitude.


    ¡°This recklessness must end. Rose wanders into the woods already with Sadko near his river and so you encourage picking flowers?¡±


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    ¡°Well with Sadko she is as safe as with you and really we were not far from the fields the whole time.¡± Elena wanted nothing more than to please him, however, there was that part of her that could never let the old ways go.


    ¡°Is she safe with Sadko? I see the way he looks at you sometimes.¡± Ivan gritted.


    ¡°Sadko shows more respect than any of your hunting men after the drink. He loves Rose like the daughter he never had. Perhaps you are jealous that we are both spending time with her that you are not.¡± Elena felt better, after his last outburst, flattered really.


    ¡°This is not a matter of time it is a matter of place. The place for her is here safe in the garden where she will grow and flourish. Not in the wild where she will surely perish. Do not go off the path not even to pick flowers.¡± They stood on the hill where they had first met overlooking the village.


    ¡°Husband I know you speak from love so I will make sure that Rose continues to only play in the garden.¡± Ivan leaned down so she could kiss him. He still held Rose who stirred on his back making it brief. Elena wondered if Rose was only pretending and really had heard the conversation. Rose was clever, more than she pretended to be. Today she had taught her mother a new trick to lie by telling the truth. After all, prayer and meditation followed by language lessons was not play. If her husband Ivan ever did find out the valley would thunder with his voice. Yet strangely deep down it was Grandmother she feared more. During this moment all was peaceful in this perfect village of spring.

 Hansel and Gretel

    Chapter 13 Hansel and Gretel


    Hansel and Gretel crashed their way through the underbrush. There was no bother being subtle. He was onto their scent. ¡°Careful he is catching up on your right!¡± Gretel whined.


    ¡°I know!¡± Hansel barked, ¡°Keep going!¡±


    ¡°We should head back out. Turn north!¡± Gretel veered to avoid the thorn bush ahead. Something swiped and took off a chunk of Hansel¡¯s fur from his shoulder. He barreled on forward. When he sensed the next swipe coming he made what must have been the fastest change of his life. From beast to boy not lacking in strength he gripped his attacker¡¯s wrist and underarm catapulting the much larger opponent by the fulcrum of his own arm into the bush. Hansel twisted away knowing the key was not getting caught up in such an attack. Outcries of out rage bellowed forth luckily the bramble had its new guest well occupied. The change back for Hansel was more painful due to the added swiftness of the first. Immediately he took to the south. When Gretel appeared next to him from the left he nearly took her head off. His adrenaline was pumping and the blood lust was in him. She snapped at him. ¡°It is me! Why did you not follow?¡±


    ¡°You cannot guess? Besides, I will not let him drive us back out to the Frost.¡± They slowed cautiously to a trot. No sounds of pursuit were heard.


    ¡°We have to leave and gather more forces.¡± Gretel growled nervously. Her ears back. Her teeth bore.


    ¡°You are the one who wanted to come in and find him without any interference.¡± Hansel¡¯s voice lost its emphasis for he yelped when she coarsely licked his wound. The moment her tongue retracted the gash was gone.


    ¡°I was wrong. I had grown impatient circling on the outside in the snow.¡± Gretel protested.


    ¡°Come dawn he will be forced to retreat.¡± Hansel reasoned, he hated giving up, they were so close. A part of him suspected that this far in they were not going to be let out again this time. The witch was tired of their meddling; she had cursed the borders. Together they crouched keeping under cover of whatever they could find. Not too far ahead was a brief clearing. It would slow them up. Going through it would be suicidal. They would have to go around.


    ¡°We are no match for the hunter covered with his wards come day.¡± Gretel¡¯s head turned towards a snap.


    ¡°Better to chance that than a frozen slumber. I have an idea of where to go.¡± Two doves flew right over their heads.


    ¡°He has taken to the trees.¡± Hansel looked up warily. The crackling of branches seemed to answer in response and another noise like soft tinkling bells. The canopy above became a flurry of movement. The doves circled a silhouette receding into darkness so deep that even canine eyes could not follow. Then what once was a moss covered branch revealed itself as a furry claw snatching one of the birds from mid air and delivering it to a pearl toothed maw. Blood spurted, feathers flew, Hansel barked with rage.


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    As soon as he revealed their location he regretted it. Fearing for Gretel he leapt into the clearing to make sure he was the only one spotted. Great metal teeth clamped tight around his leg. He howled not only in grief but also in agony. The gleam of the silver prevented him from even attempting to gnaw his leg off. The silver was not just repelling him. His opponent also stayed at bay.


    Gretel felt disgusted with herself. She should have kept her brother from leaping in foolishly had she thought it out. The Hunter always preferred clearings for traps. This is why the other had taken to the trees. The enemy retreated knowing there was nothing more to do. He had herded them to the desired spot. It was no longer his job to dispose of them. She hoped some part of him still recognized them and did not wish to finish the deed. Should she despair? Was her brother truly lost? For it was a certainty she could not remove this serrated shackle. And if she stayed two would be captured.


    The crackling of trees started up with a swift and bitter breeze. Gretel realized the chill she felt was not just in her mind. In the clearing her brother froze. Only Hansel¡¯s eyes darted from side to side fervently. The creature landed from above with the sound of snow thudding to the ground. A soft tinkling that they had heard earlier as it moved towards Hansel. The young wolf shivered uncontrollably in response to the approach which appeared slow but sudden. All at once the white deity was upon him slashing. The searing pain in his leg was astonishing. As if he was being burned. The severing was swift.


    The shaking was a natural response as his foot tried to grow back. The creature still hovered over him observing. He seemed curious as the quill icicles of his back stood on end. Gretel took a chance, changing into a girl she quickly reached out dragging Hansel back not only from the hovering creature but from the silver which surely was counteracting his body¡¯s efforts. When she looked back up the being with the dew drop head had retreated at an unreal speed, walking backwards up a tree.


    When he was gone Gretel growled, ¡°How is it that Frost has come so far in?¡±


    ¡°Father Winter must be tired of laying siege to the outside.¡± Hansel swung his head to indicate which way they should retreat to.


    ¡°The rules have not changed. She must still be making sacrifices and brewing spring mead.¡±


    ¡°Do not be a dolt. He is traveling along the river path that is made cool by the water. He creates the rules.¡± Hansel gritted.


    ¡°By the end of tonight the Lueda Yenka will know his way of entry and lay traps for him.Our bad brother surely knew he was here.¡± Gretel shook her head.


    ¡°Did not seem to bother the Old Jack in the slightest did it?¡± Hansel winced once more a boy examining his foot. Dawn was not too far away.


    ¡°Why do you suppose he helped us?¡± Gretel mused, tossing her soft hair over her shoulders.


    ¡°Bother trying to figure those things out.¡± Hansel rolled his eyes. ¡°All I know is I hate this wood. So I say it is time we leave it."

 Soup Kitchen

    Chapter 14 Soup Kitchen


    ¡°Rose, pay attention.¡± Elena scolded while taking out the two pirog cakes and setting them on the sill to cool. She was giving both a language lesson and a cooking lesson. Since time at the shrine was shortened they attempted only saying a prayer there and leaving an offering. That meant the kitchen was fair game for lessons of all kinds. Still Elena was careful to send Nina and Hilda off early to set the tables and then serve the first courses. As expected they took full advantage gabbing and taking their time, all too happy to get out of doing any real work.


    Rose had picked up the language part rather quickly in the last couple of days for she found it exciting. The basket weaving with her Grandmother actually helped. After learning the fundamentals she recited the letters and words in her head while she worked on her craft. Grandmother found her silence strange at first while she braided her hair. Hardly able to question peace and quiet, after a while, she simply enjoyed it. The cooking lessons Rose was not so keen on. Her mind wandered while waiting for things to boil or bake as a result things had either been burning or turning to mush.


    She had truly vexing matters upon her mind. The traps were not working. She had tested them out in the fields and all had been well. Yet in the garden though they kept being triggered no prize was found within.  She had decided to start small at her Father¡¯s suggestion which made sense to her since she suspected smaller animals to really be doing the bulk of the damage. In the mornings her boxes would only hold puddles and her hanging snares would only be dripping with dew.


    ¡°I shall have to sneak out earlier in the morning and watch them.¡± Rose thought to herself. Elena had suggested that perhaps the other children were triggering them by accident. Grandmother of course was convinced it was the bear doing it on purpose. Either way when re-testing her traps in the fields to make sure there was no mistake she found two boxes overturned the next day and though it was apparent she had caught two snakes the signs were clear this time that someone had filched them.


    Oh well at least the rabbit snares had worked and tonight they would have rabbit stew.


    ¡°Rose! The pot is boiling over!¡± Elena pointed sternly, her hands juggling a pile of dishes. She quickly set them down when she saw Rose trying to manage the soup and it was too heavy for her. As she reached out to help, hot liquid splashed across her arm.  Her Mother gave out a little cry. Rose dropped the pot on the floor. It lost half its contents but still managed to stay upright. ¡°Oh Mother, mother I am sorry.¡± Rose bit her lip as Elena pressed a cool wet towel to the burn.


    ¡°That¡¯s all right, yearling.¡± Elena pulled her daughter into a hug. ¡°Let us just forget about the soup.¡± After this moment of disorientation Rose gathered her senses. Since the liquid had lowered she began to drag the pot near the back door to be dumped when she saw a curious thing. A little white hand disappeared from the door frame. When she got there and looked outside, there was no one.  Her Father burst through the lodge side door. He looked around eyes narrowed,


    ¡°Ivan what is the matter?!¡± Elena said, shocked by his suspicious expression. She had just about dropped the dishes again.


    ¡°I heard you cry out and then I thought I smelled a¡­¡± He saw the pirog on the sill. He leaned in closer and sniffed it. He looked around this time less aggressively.


    ¡°A fire, did you burn yourself?¡± He took her hand gently to examine the wound.


    ¡°Yes my love.¡± She kissed his cheek for his concern. ¡°It is nothing Rose and I had a little adventure. We did not set fire to the kitchen.¡±


    Rose took her boot and pushed the pot fully outside the door then kicked the dirt in frustration. She kept her eyes down and her fingers knotted. Elena elbowed Ivan in the ribs while her hand came to her mouth in a sympathetic, ¡°Oh dear.¡±


    Ivan cleared his throat. ¡°Well, must everyone enjoy the company of their family but I? Hilda and Nina are already eagerly eating their meals. Are you through?¡±


    ¡°I believe so.¡± Rose cheered up as her Father extended his hand to her.


    In the great hall as everyone eagerly gorged. Rose pushed the food on her plate around. She was looking at each of the children in turn and there certainly were a lot of them to look at. She was looking for pale milk looking skin like she had seen on the hand in the kitchen. She was certain it was the hand of a child. All of the children looked either dark or rosy from sprawling out and napping under the noon day sun. The fingers on their hands were pudgy and short.


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    Rose decided that she was mistaken that perhaps it was a woman¡¯s hand she saw. She looked around at the entire group of pregnant mothers¡¯. They certainly were whiter from staying indoors out of the sun. Still all these hands were larger with more knuckle than what she had seen.


    ¡°Sadko?¡± she looked over to him for he wasn¡¯t sitting that far away. ¡°Does Miller have tiny hands like that of a child?¡±


    ¡°Yes, and somehow he manages to fit all those rings on his fingers.¡± Sadko laughed and so did many others except for those that had lost their rings to the miller.


    Once again Rose was thwarted the hand had no defining trinkets upon it.


    ¡°Darling you must not speak of the Miller¡¯s size that way.¡± Her mother walked around with a basket filled with rolls. On top of this basket was Grandmother¡¯s pirog wrapped in cloth. Elena placed this next to Ivan whose face was like stone as he listened to the tables. Yet as she walked away Rose saw the back of his hand brush her skirt.


    ¡°The Miller would give her just as blunt an answer for her curiosity.¡± Ivan clanked cups with Sadko. Elena was wearing another dress sewn by Grandmother which of course was too tight. Elena never had the heart to tell the old woman they never fit. She always promised to wear it to dinner in the hopes that some night Grandmother might change her mind and stay. Afterwards she made the proper alterations.


    ¡°Is there not a fourth course tonight Elena?¡± One of the other men asked earnestly.


    ¡°I was teaching the girls today. I am afraid some parts of the dinner will be skimmed over the course of the month while they learn.¡± After her mother¡¯s words Rose lowered her head.


    ¡°Pour the man more mead darling that ought to fill his belly.¡± Ivan stabbed at his meat. Great stag antlers hung above his chair. Ivan himself was so tall it seemed sometimes they were his own horns. This image was nothing to laugh at. In fact it quite fit him as the leader of the feast.


    Elena smiled to her husband compliantly, all the other men smiled at the pitcher and what was behind it. Needless to say, many glasses needed filling. Sadko, as always, abstained from drink.


    Hilda who had been sipping some mead herself went over and giggled loudly to her Father. ¡°Did you know that it is poor little Rose¡¯s fault that tonight we do not have one course.¡±  Nina guffawed with her sister. ¡°That is so. She burned the whole thing!¡±


    Rose stood so fast her chair hit the back wall. ¡°That is a lie you sow! The truth is you both ate it all!¡±


    ¡°Rose!¡± Ivan slammed down his cup and the whole table jumped involuntarily.


    ¡°Darling, you must not say such things!¡± Elena grabbed her ear. There were many gasps and muttering. Elena continued to scold but in her own mild mannered way which showed more disappointment than anger. ¡°You know they were only lightly making merry. You are speaking hurtful words.¡± The two sisters looked pale, one with anger and the other with embarrassment.


    ¡°First you mock the Tanner, then the Miller and then this. Have her clean the kitchen by herself tonight as punishment.¡± Ivan¡¯s voice was not loud but deep and rumbling. His mouth curved with a distaste that made Rose choke on her words faster than anything. ¡°You heard your Father.¡± Elena patted her bottom to send her on her way. Rose hid her hurt at least until the kitchen door. Where she paused to make sure her Father was not really angry with her.


    ¡°She is young and her tongue is sharp. A good whacking with a reed will dull it.¡± Nina¡¯s Father hiccupped.


    ¡°It has not done much for your children.¡± Ivan commented and he tapped his cup with Sadko¡¯s who shared in his brotherly mirth. ¡°Merchant, you must make music for us so we can drown out the noise of our children!¡±


    Sadko obliged heartily and picked up his instrument.


    ¡°Wife, away with that frown come dance for me!¡± Ivan demanded, Elena smiled even more so when her rosy cheeked husband bellowed. ¡°Drink everyone!¡±


    Rose sighed, perhaps later she would not be allowed to go to Grandmother¡¯s as long as her Father was not truly disappointed in her brazenness she could feel better. She had overreacted loudly and openly next time she would war more skillfully. She went into the kitchen and worked as hard as she could, each time she finished more dishes were brought. By the time things were all put away the music had ended and even murmurs became whispers that turned into footsteps dragging home. Out of the corner of her eye she thought she saw the flicker of a candle outside behind some moving bushes. It was gone when she really gave a hard look. Sadko entered the kitchen. ¡°Rose, you finished? Your Mother and I are waiting. Are you looking for someone?¡± Sadko asked.


    ¡°What of Father?¡± Rose turned to him rather than sounding tired and nonsensical.


    ¡°He left to see your Grandmother hours ago.¡± Elena came in beside them teetering from drink. She began laughing. ¡°Oh Rose you really should not have. After all it was I who said they could taste the food that reflects poorly on my judgment you see.¡± She burped.


    ¡°Your Mother is right.¡± Sadko gave Rose a meaningful nod to show that he could translate. ¡°After all, only two more months until they leave Rose. Couldn¡¯t you have waited until then to insult Hilda and Nina?¡± Rose folded her arms and said nothing.


    ¡°Come I shall escort the both of you home.¡± Sadko took Elena¡¯s hand to steady her.


    ¡°I am sure my dear husband shall follow us shortly. He can not have that much to discuss with old Mother. And the little deer does not eat anything.¡± Elena looked around bewildered.


    ¡°Unlike other girls we know.¡± Sadko winked at Rose. Elena nearly tripped over the pot outside. ¡°Darling you forgot this, put it back in the kitchen.¡±


    Rose hurried to obey afraid her mother might regain her senses and tell her to wash out the burned soup. When she reached down to pick up the tipped over pot she realized it was empty. The bottom was scraped clean and not a drop could be seen on the ground anywhere.

 Silver Teeth

    Chapter 15 Silver teeth


    Small cloud wisps trailed across the moon casting light flickering shadows across the land. Tonight its bright fury nearly rivaled the sun. Casting uneven rays down through the trees that Ivan was careful to avoid. He heard a noise not far ahead of him which quickly turned to a small rustle behind. This creature would not avoid the rays for they were what gave him strength. This night was always the time when he misbehaved the most.


    When the path became straight the stalker charged forward. It came with the speed of a horse without the hindrance of hooves over uneven ground it meant to collide with Ivan and take off his head. Ivan slid with grace and precision the axe out of its leather casing upon his back. The silver glinted in the moonlight and its reflection caused the beast to divert at the last moment. Repelled by the mystical metal he thought it would do no more. Ivan was mistaken. This one was clever, a Kostchey.


    It slid around him in a half circle, the sharp razor claws of one arm extended trembling from the pain of still being so near the axe yet they cut the mark they reached for. The straps around Ivan¡¯s shoulders slid away, not allowed a full fall. With an agility fuelled by the fire of intent the Wolf¡¯s long fingers utilized its new prize and caught the handle of the axe within the turn of Ivan¡¯s swing with the loop of the leather that became a lash. He yanked the weapon from the defenders grasp, flinging it away with a malicious grin. They began to wrestle but Ivan was no match for this hell born strength. He was being played with.


    Ivan was pinned to the ground a great hairy forearm pressed to his throat. His shirt being inadvertently ripped as the creature used his other claw to search through his vest pockets. He pulled out his find. It was the smashed; yet still steaming pirog. Until this the Wolves eyes had been cool and unfeeling like his opponent. For despite the sporting, this was only a means to an end. The tainted scent hit him. He knew what the meat was. This was his fellow white wolf felled by betrayal. He howled a lament that shook both him and his captive. His great jaw opened saliva bubbling and thick coating each tooth as it dripped down. His eyes glowed taunt and truly feral.


    Out of the brush cackled laughter and the red fringed fern in front of them lost a great deal of fringe. Eyes of vengeance turned to angst as the wolves head snapped reflexively surveying this fleeting new motion through the woods. Upon this distraction a rope attacked with the deftness of a snake from the very spot that seemed to have just been vacated. Ivan quickly slid out from underneath the unbalanced monster whose head was tied and being yanked as thoroughly as the axe earlier had been.


    ¡°Give us a kiss, love.¡± The taunt moonlit rope led to dark edges where the whisper had come from. Here was no struggle as the creature gripped his heart and became limp he could no longer fight the pull. New jaws emerged glinting, they clamped down upon his muzzle and he squealed as a pig would squeal if it could also roar. The wolf convulsed until it lay still and she released it. There was a creak and sickening pop as her mouth readjusted. These were the very same silver teeth that had ambushed Hansel in the clearing inside the mouth of their rightful owner. Without them she could not devour the potent powers of a Kerwolf, nor even savor their poisonous meat. They had been made for her by Ivan who had already retrieved his axe and tossed her the pirog which entered her mouth almost instantly.


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    As her false teeth grinded the savory cub meat the Wolf demon whimpered clasping its ears. Even noise coming from silver was not pleasant to his kind, even a reflection off of it could burn them. Not until she was finished did she have Ivan remove the strange weapons from her mouth. There were screws and straps involved yet when all was done, she did not wipe the blood that dripped from her gums onto her lips. She licked them with a most satisfied grin.


    ¡°Must you always try to keep me from the best meals? I have been tightening my belt a long while waiting for something decent.¡± She slid the rope off of the Wolf¡¯s neck with ease tying it around her waist. She rubbed her jaw turning upon her servant.


    ¡°Ivan this contraption shifts on me. The fit is not true. Make an excuse to stay in the forge tomorrow. I shall need you later in the village anyway.¡± Aware she still had a captive audience she turned back to the writhing animal that was nursing its muzzle.


    ¡°I suppose you were looking for this?¡± She pulled from her red tasseled shall a little doll wrapped in cloth. A silver pin pushed through the doll¡¯s heart. She twisted it and again the creature cried out. ¡°Truly do you think I would trust this to just anyone? Ivan has his uses but he is over all a mindless lump.¡±


    The Wolf finally mustered up a glare of reproach. He spoke with a deep guttural voice. This was a very difficult thing for his kind to master; usually only those who had transformed into the third state could do it.


    ¡°If he were mindless Baba Yaga I would have slaughtered him years ago. The man has no soul, something you intend for me someday I think.¡±


    ¡°Never, your will is much too fun to play with. It excites me in ways you cannot imagine to twist you as I do. Remember I have saved you above all others I have aged and eaten. And when you break my pet it will be my greatest pleasure.¡±


    The wolf snarled in a fashion that said this would not be happening any time soon. She ignored his dramatics and turned back to Ivan.


    ¡°So what have you determined? Are they still in the wood?¡± Her eyes narrowed. Ivan nodded. ¡°They must be. None of the border markings have shifted and all the traps are secure.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm, I must fortify things. Rid myself of weak links.¡± Baba Yaga turned to the Wolf, loosening the pressure of the silver pin a little. Nevertheless the relief he felt was more from the words she had just spoken to the hunter. Some of his family still lived.


    ¡°Did you keep Frost retreated?¡± As she questioned the Wolf it was Ivan she treated like a dog throwing him a small piece of meat that she had saved from the bread. He swallowed it only after chewing carefully with his four silver coated molars.


    ¡°Water is his element. I have no chance of capturing him. Every time he uses the river I lose him.¡± Despite the complaint the Wolf stood defiant.


    ¡°Pitiful you used to be so effective.¡± Baba Yaga waved a hand at his excuses.


    ¡°Without the mercury he stole we have no chance of true victory.¡± The Wolf growled, ¡°Perhaps if you did not curse that befuddled merchant he might have obtained some for you.¡±


    ¡°And let you slip out a message to your brethren on the outside. I think not. I was not so sorry to lose those teeth as you might suppose. They were your craft. Until I am whole from your past mistakes I shall not risk foolish endeavors. The Frost is patient. It is immortal and does not understand time. It will continue on with the same patterns and rules until it gets what it wants. All I need to do is keep its wretched sabotage at bay until my time arises and then I shall bait the Frost using my own works.¡± She gestured for the Wolf to leave and he did as bid.


    ¡°The merchant still causes trouble. His presence encourages Rose to be willful.¡± Ivan waited until the beast was far enough away before speaking to his mistress.


    ¡°You are her Father, put a stop to it. It is Elena who seems to me to be hiding things from us. I suspect her.¡± When Ivan nodded she cackled. ¡°Well perhaps I was hasty in calling you a mindless lump.¡±

 Old Jack

    Chapter 16 Old Jack


    As the moon crept across the sky and the chill of the morning began to take hold. Rose forced herself to get up though instinct told her to burrow deeper into her blankets. She had stayed dressed and only had to put on her boots. She began to climb outside slowly listening for Ivan¡¯s snores as she went. They were consistent and soon she was outside using the very skills he had taught her to creep silently.


    Once away she wanted to burst out laughing with triumph. The excitement of this escape far outweighed all of her past endeavors.  She fought off this mad fever and contained herself. If animals were near they might sense her heightened emotions. She let the calm of the scenery wash over her. She imagined her heart as being one with the land.


    Her approach to the garden in this manner was slow and worth it. For it was with no little wonderment that she beheld several little creatures that were as yet unaware of her presence.


    They nibbled with a nervous speed, as if they had been starved all their lives. The greatest and tallest of them was white with great ears and a commanding presence over his grey furred troops. His eyes were as dark as coles. The whole of him seemed sprinkled with starlight for he sparkled even as the moon disappeared beyond the trees.


    Excited, Rose made ready her sling. This was after all her reason for coming. Her father would not hesitate simply because an animal had attractive heirs, all the more reason to kill it. Still Rose was not her Father. After a moment of hesitation remembering why she had come she put down the sling. Better to see how her traps worked during this onslaught so she could figure out how to improve them. She remembered quite accurately where each snare lied along the bunny trails and among the bushes near the most tantalizing vegetables. She positioned herself to see if any of the animals approached them yet still stayed far enough away so she would not be seen or heard. Many of the little grey rabbits began to venture that direction, noses twitching with enticement.


    Just as the tirade approached one of her best and most hidden setups, the white Jack took initiative and took the lead. Rose did not even dare to hope and yet with anticipation she saw he went right over the top of it. Rose watched the trap spring with a pride that was immediately shaken. The rabbit had not gone with it. Indeed the rope went into the air but the rabbit stood as if nothing had happened. He was not even surprised by the noise and movement that had been made while the rabble of grey bodies before him did startle and ebb.


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    Rose fumed, she was certain that his foot should have caught. It had landed just right. Perhaps it was only the view she had taken. Once she maneuvered herself to where more traps were placed and once again she was astounded by what she saw. The white rabbit went around setting off each trap in turn. Sometimes even sticking his great white head in them and working his paws like a man. And though she could not see clearly his motions the end result was an empty triggered trap that all the other rabbits could hop around. The onslaught of the garden continued. Worse, the amount they munched left holes more gaping and ugly than on the most worn pair of her father¡¯s old socks.


    Feeling injured may have driven Rose back more quickly to her original plan. Their leader seemed to be the only one with an amazing amount of intelligence. Without his protection the rest would not have had a clue that doom was so near. If she killed the leader they certainly would fall prey. She readied her sling this time with less remorse. The light of dawn was just beginning to appear in the sky. Up came white ears taunt and alert. Up came twenty or more ears after that. Up went legs and down went tails as every last creature hopped away down to the fields.


    The last was the great white hopper vigilant in his protection as ever. Rose¡¯s aim was true but she was bewildered, almost entranced when the creature turned at the edge of the field¡¯s grain and stared right at her. It was as if he knew, perhaps had known the whole time that she was there. His ear tilted signifying as clear as a wink that he enjoyed the sport and then he vanished between shoots.


    Rose blinked mouth agape. If she told this to anyone in the village she would be a laughing stock. For who would believe the great hunter¡¯s daughter was being outwitted by a jack rabbit? Ultimately they would just think her silly in the head. After all she was a girl who wished to be a boy.  It would be her traps that would be considered the folly and this just another tall yarn told by a less skilled student.


    This also reminded her that she needed to return home for her Father¡¯s morning exercise lessons. She stood up as brazen as the hare. She hoped that somewhere he was watching. ¡°I am not going to give up.¡± She clenched her tiny fists as the morning breeze hit her and all the world sparkled anew. ¡°I accept your challenge.¡±

 A Fathers Charge

    Chapter 17 A Fathers charge


    As the sun lit up in the sky Rose arrived home and slid back in the way she came. Yet when she entered she felt an ominous mood in the house. Her mother was not doing her usual singing. The house was absent of her Father¡¯s morning pipe. Instead when she entered the main room she found her mother quaking in a corner.


    ¡°What do you mean you do not know where she is?! Did she even come home with you?!¡± Ivan bellowed as he shook Elena.


    ¡°Please darling I tell you I do not remember last night except that Sadko walked us home!¡± Elena looked over at their kitchen table fearfully


    Ivan released her arms. ¡°He spends time with my wife and daughter when I am not present!¡± Elena¡¯s mouth moved like a fish making no sound at this not so wild accusation. There were true roots to this jealous rage.


    Finally over Elena¡¯s shoulder his dark eyes caught sight of Rose. She trembled not knowing what he might do. He had never struck her before. Perhaps today would be the first day.


    ¡°Father,¡± she squeaked, ¡°I was not with Sadko I went out early to check my traps.¡±


    ¡°Ivan,¡± Elena grabbed his arms already weakened by feeling their iron strength beneath her hands. ¡°Do not punish her please. I beg you.  She only wishes to impress you.¡± Fresh tears brewed in her eyes. He was not looking at her.


    Ivan looked at Rose¡¯s face for a long while. This was a new emotion he had yet to see upon it. He had made a study of it since she was a baby. He knew the praise that caused it to light up and follow. He knew the voice that caused it to twist with guilt. He knew all the things that caused this face joy and sorrow. This study was for one thing and one thing alone, obedience. She held a look of distrust which was unfounded. The ultimate law which he was to uphold was that no physical harm was to come to her.  This included himself. He spoke plainly for he knew the cleverness of her.


    ¡°You have made me do this.¡± He curled his mouth in such a way that made Rose want to sink through the floor. ¡°I vowed your Mother would never be injured again once you came out and destroyed her womb leaving it empty and torn.¡±


    ¡°Ivan please you must not say such things to her.¡± Elena whispered shuttering.


    ¡°If only I had a son. He would be waiting eagerly for my morning lessons.¡±


    ¡°I am¡­¡± Rose let her voice die in her throat with one raise of his eyebrow.


    ¡°He would not run away to places full of danger until he grew to be the proper age of a hunter!¡±


    Rose filled with shame after this morning even if she were allowed to hunt with her Father when she became older, there was no proof that she would ever make him proud.


    Elena whispered nearly inaudible for she felt the pain of her only child.


    ¡°You told her she could play in the garden. She was in the garden.¡±


    ¡°Well since she took her own exercises this morning without my permission she will have no instruction from me today.¡± He refused to even look at their child as her head dropped and she fought back tears. ¡°And you are no longer allowed to go to that merchant¡¯s house, is that understood?!¡±


    Rose¡¯s head fell. He accepted this as a nod. He kissed his wife and daughter¡¯s forehead. These were motions he did every morning before leaving the hata. Until today Elena had never considered that they might be reflexive.


    ¡°I''m going to speak with Sadko.¡± Ivan marched out.


    He was across the entry Elena turned to her daughter who ran up and hugged her tightly.


    ¡°I am sorry. I am sorry.¡± Rose cried and briefly Elena was reminded of how old her daughter truly was.


    ¡°He loves you dew drop. He was worried when you were not in your bed.¡± Elena bit her lip remembering Fedor calling her that when she had cried; what a lifetime ago. ¡°He only wishes for you to stay safe. He is angry. We must make sure he is not untoward to Sadko.¡±


    Ivan¡¯s ghastly approach was marked by the dark hood that he wore. Neighbors who had heard his shouting and saw his direction closed their doors. Ivan only dawned his hood when he was about to shed blood.  Everyone had heard Sadko¡¯s name except for Sadko himself. The merchant was just arising with a stretch to answer the pounding at the door.


    When he opened it Grandmother stared up at him with beady eyes her toothless smile immediately making him uncomfortable. She held rather awkwardly her tawny cat.


    ¡°Grandmother, you have come to the village early today. May I assist you in some way?¡± He scratched his head mystified by this strange visit.


    ¡°Nula¡¯s labor pains have begun, that is not why I am here. Merchant you have finally done it. My son wishes you away from our family.¡± Her many tassels fluttered just as on the first day he had seen her.  Despite this ominous message he braved a smile.


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    ¡°Grandmother, you jest. We just raised cups together last night. I played a merry tune for him. He should not be angry with me if his head hurts this morning.¡± He opened the door wider so that she might enter when she did a broom fell. The cat hissed and she coddled it. Sadko looked to the broom sleepily, rubbing his eyes. When he looked back she had stepped back outside. Ivan was coming up the path his nostrils flaring though he did not seem short of breath.


    ¡°Merchant, what intentions have you for my daughter?!¡± Ivan stopped just behind his Mother color draining from his face.


    ¡°None I should say.¡± Sadko replied startled. ¡°Why has she implied such a thing?¡±


    ¡°She need not imply. The whole village sees that she fancies you just how much that is unclear. We wish to know if you perhaps indulge her much with such ideas.¡± The ugly white of Grandmother¡¯s knuckles as she gripped her cat began to match the blanching of Sadko¡¯s face. Grandmother¡¯s words stung. To the point where Sadko remembered that from the very beginning he had never liked this woman. It was more than the way she looked or the way she spoke. This woman seemed to inspire dark thoughts.  He had never even dreamed up this nightmare. Its very implication repelled him thoroughly. It made him feel sick.


    ¡°Preposterous! I have only ever thought of her as my own child. I wish only to be the very best Godfather to her. Ivan you must know I have no such desire for Rose!¡±


    Ivan glowered a moment. He carefully read the man before him. ¡°If you did and it was honorable I would promise her to you when she came of age.¡± He turned to Grandmother who nodded and spoke, ¡°Yes you are of good standing. You seem to keep in good health as you age. No doubt in the future you will still be ruggedly handsome. I do not suppose Rose would object to the match.¡± Her eyelashes actually fluttered and did she dare such a manner toward him?


    ¡°What are you saying? She is a babe barely out of her swaddles!¡± Sadko shouted aghast. Was this some trick to make him admit to thoughts he never had. They could not be serious.


    ¡°I am a man of means. I expect to grant her such things anyway, as a benefactor. Betroth her to a youth of similar age. In Volpi the parents would claw one another at the chance to gain a beauty like her for their sons. Let her outside into the world as she wishes!¡± Sadko encouraged though a much sharper retort had come to his mind first.


    ¡°Perhaps my reaction was hasty.  Yet I see no fault in it. Given the circumstances should I have gone about it differently?¡± Ivan consulted his Mother.


    ¡°No this is what you are meant to do as a Father. It is only a strange relationship to understand. On the one hand you must be wary of it on the other it poses no real threat.¡± She spoke languidly as if Sadko was not even there. This made him angrier than before.


    ¡°Ours is not a strange relationship! It is a friendship!¡± Sadko justified a bit more loudly than he realized many were gathering below in the village and continued with a lowered voice.


    ¡°Is Rose not to have any friends? You already teach her more than the other children. It is a wonder that she even speaks to them. You segregate her so much with your foreign ways.¡± If it was possible and it was, Grandmother¡¯s eyes narrowed further as she hugged her cat and Ivan retorted sharply.


    ¡°This place was no more than dirt before I came and tended to it! I, Ivan took my great tools and brought civilization to you! A lodge and bath houses built over the springs! Foreign ways! Hah! Better ways and do not forget! For Rose has grown better for them!¡±


    Sadko tried to argue calmly. ¡°I apologize, heritage is important. I am very angry by this accusation that you have placed on my head!¡±


    ¡°It is all a mistake!¡± Elena scrambled up the path with Rose keeping pace in a pretty blue dress matching her mothers. Normally Sadko would compliment her clothes from this day forth he would be leery even mentioning it.


    ¡°Sadko please understand, Rose was missing this morning and I woke up not remembering last night. I only knew that you had taken us home. Ivan jumped to a wrong conclusion. That is why he is here.¡±


    Rose grabbed her Grandmother¡¯s arm pulling the cat away to plead and grasp her hands fully.


    ¡°Babushka you must tell Father not to be angry with Sadko. Tell him to apologize. Tell him to punish me.¡± The cat lay limp and content in Rose¡¯s arm as Babushka tried to pull him back Rose turned with him. ¡°There would only be one way to keep your Father¡¯s mind at ease. If you insist on being with Sadko alone then daily I must check to see if you are intact.¡± She looked Elena in the eye sharply. She would work a wedge one way or the other.


    ¡°What does that mean?¡± Rose asked while Elena gasped. Sadko stood stunned in his doorway.


    ¡°I acted rashly, Sadko. I am sorry. I will punish Rose by not giving her lessons today.¡± Ivan said sadly. The drastic change in his emotions made it impossible for Sadko to believe. For the first time since his marriage to Elena Sadko was livid with this man he had learned to call brother.


    ¡°If this injustice were mine alone I could bear it!¡± He burst out while giving Ivan a shove. ¡°This humiliation you would put Rose through is unnecessary! Your child is not in the habit of lying. You have only to ask her!¡± Sadko looked more outraged than ever in his life. ¡°I denounce myself as her Godfather if this is how you will treat her in my presence! If our friendship causes her pain I will allow her to suffer it no more!¡±


    ¡°Sadko you cannot mean it! Ivan only requests to be present when you are near Rose as is proper.¡± Elena wavered and Ivan reflexively steadied her with a well placed arm.


    Sadko disappeared into his doorway and reappeared with arrows and a bow.


    ¡°It is the accusation that unnerves me Elena! I go into the woods to hunt when I return. I want you off of my land!¡± He slammed the door behind him to drive the point home. ¡°Ivan, finish your commissions and then I want you out of my Father¡¯s forge as well!¡±


    Grandmother sputtered at this announcement. ¡°Selfish creature, are you trying to break Rose¡¯s heart?!¡± Rose squeezed her Grandmother¡¯s hand. Sadko was in the process of pushing past them when he wheeled back upon her.


    ¡°You have poisoned us! An intention you have had for a while I think!¡±


    Ivan reached back and touched the handle of his axe when Elena saw this she stayed his hand. Sadko knelt down before Rose seeing only her distress.


    ¡°Rose you must not let them continue to have this hold over you. One day you must burst free like a sparrow and fly.¡± With this he was on his heels and away.


    ¡°That man has finally revealed a temper. It will soon cool.¡± Grandmother said with assurance swinging the cat over her shoulder.


    ¡°We have injured him.¡± For the first time Elena looked upon her husband with shame.


    ¡°I must go to the forge. If what he says is true, I must continue to work on my commissions.¡± Ivan commented wryly. He let go of Elena and left them without another word on the subject. ¡°Well I go to visit Nula.¡± Grandmother stared vacantly at the house and then turned.  Elena sighed, ¡°I shall help you. Rose, you are to go to Natasha¡¯s hata until the birth is done.¡± Rose wiped her puffy eyes. She did not want Hilda and Nina to see her like this.

 Golden Locks

    Chapter 18 Golden Locks


    ¡°Are they gone?¡± Gretel popped up a floor board. Hansel signaled her to be quiet peering through a break in the wooden shutters. It was a long while before he nodded and closed the slit.


    ¡°We have to be more cautious. Since they have eaten a piece of me their hearing is bound to get better.¡± Hansel turned to see Gretel trying out a bed.


    ¡°Hey what are you doing?¡± He motioned for her to get off but she only smiled and bounced.


    ¡°Oh come I am sure he will be gone for a while and I am getting tired of sleeping under this house. It is so cold being a human.¡± She examined the pale skin of her arm.


    ¡°It is more difficult for them to smell us in human form, not impossible. You will get gold locks all over the bed.¡± He sat in a chair that creaked so he moved to another.


    ¡°Please brother it was I not you who cast that white witch besom spell to keep her out of the house. Old crone did not even realize she was being repelled.¡±


    ¡°You are always over confident. Baba Yaga has been known to sweep away her own traces of dirty work.¡± Hansel went back over to the floor boards after both their stomachs growled. ¡°I was speaking about Sadko he is not as oblivious as the others you know. I would hate for us to lose this place. The vantage is great from on top of this hill. Being alone he builds great fires to keep warm at night and those ashes hide our scent. And my dove seems to get on pleasantly enough with the geese.¡±


    Gretel got up and tried the next bed, it sunk so abruptly she leaped out. ¡°Hansel if it were up to me we would keep moving. I do not understand what you hope to accomplish by staying in the midst of her cattle. Besides I detest this bachelor¡¯s home. The man makes extra porridge at night so he can eat it cold in the morning.¡± She sniffed with a crinkled nose at the open pot on the table.


    Hansel¡¯s voice was muffled for his head had disappeared under the floor. ¡°Is not it a pity? All this food around us and we cannot even have a bite of it. Every plant, every person tainted.¡± He pulled out two long snakes.


    ¡°Are not those tainted? You brought them in days ago.¡± Gretel folded her arms.


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    ¡°I put a preserving spell on them.¡± Hansel shrugged and instantly she pounced on one. Snake was never enough meat but it did have a nice flavor.


    ¡°Why do you suppose the man has three beds?¡± Gretel licked her fingers.


    Hansel was still chewing slowly looking around. He pointed at each, ¡°Father, Mother, and son.¡± His last swooping motion was towards Sadko¡¯s bed.


    ¡°You are kidding; the man still sleeps in a baby bed?¡± Gretel laughed.


    ¡°I am sure he meant to move on up once he mated and had cubs. This is all quality furniture.¡± Hansel finished with a gulp and Gretel got up and examined it.


    ¡°You are right, very fine. His Father must have been a good merchant. Hansel, do you think we should bring our brother here once we rescue him? I think he would like this place.¡± Her fingers traced the intricate bear carvings on a chair.


    ¡°I do not want to think about that.¡± He hurried and collected up the remains of breakfast.


    ¡°When will you forgive him? He has learned his lesson. He was and is a prisoner of hers.¡± Gretel sat and Hansel watched helplessly as the chair broke into pieces, broke into pieces just like their clan had thanks to his ¡°brother¡± and that witch.


    ¡°I do not mind talking about him.¡± He said helping her up and examining her back for splinters. ¡°I mind talking about him with you. You worship him too much.¡±


    Holding hands they cast a spell together that fixed the chair. It was better than before, more solid. After that Gretel lay down on Sadko¡¯s bed looking up at the ceiling, her eyes far away perhaps thinking of the beginning like he sometimes did.


    In silence Hansel rubbed himself down with ashes from the fireplace and then threw on one of Sadko¡¯s shirts. He cast a variation of the preserving spell to preserve the strong scent and lessen his own. It would probably help if he cast away his skins underneath, he would not for they held an abundance of tricks for protection.


    ¡°Why are you going out during this time? It is very dangerous.¡± Gretel spoke with only the slightest hint of worry. ¡°You think you will be safe just because our brother does not prowl during the day and the hunter is working in his forge. Yet if the villagers spot you they will try to take you in and then she will eat you for sure.¡±


    ¡°I can manage; watching that girl walk down the hill reminded me she might still have some traps between the edge of the field and the forest.¡±


    ¡°More likely her lovely calves made you hungrier. You always did prefer the lean ones.¡± They mirrored each other with their wicked smiles. This only proved to Gretel that she knew her brother well.


    ¡°Oh sure I¡¯ll just make myself a little snack out of her favorite.¡± Hansel rolled his eyes speaking sarcastically. ¡°That would not be like setting fire to the wood.¡± That might not be a bad idea; he was certain Baba Yaga did not leave those woods very often.


    ¡°It would serve that witch right. Besides you would be doing that girl a favor in the end.¡±


    ¡°Do not nap too long golden locks. How is that bed compared to the others?¡± Hansel opened the door a crack to make sure he could slide out unnoticed.


    Gretel¡¯s eyes were already closed, ¡°Just right.¡± The door clicked shut.

 Three blind mice

    Chapter 19 Three blind mice


    Rose had begged and pleaded not to go to Natasha¡¯s hata and so instead of helping Grandmother with Nula whose contractions were not far enough apart. Elena took her down to the fields while she got some extra work done early before the heat. For a while Rose watched the beauty and grace of her mother¡¯s swings and imitated them with a stick, until they became repetitive and she got bored. Finally Elena smiled and told her she could go play elsewhere. The condition being that every now and then Rose would let her mother know where she was. After she tossed up a handkerchief Rose waited for a scythe to rise into the air wrapped with its own cloth and then she went about her own business.


    Though the cool trees of the wood beckoned her she bit her lip and behaved. Her Father¡¯s outbursts this morning had shocked her and the loss of Sadko was sinking in. No longer could she go visit his geese or take rides by the river. Horseback lessons would end just as she was getting good at jumping too. Her father did not wish her to hurt herself or travel. No longer could she tease the miller and retrieve her cat. What would her days be like to come? She could not even continue to sneak out and protect the garden for that was what started the mess to begin with.


    She continued to go around to the traps that she had placed all over the field and it no longer surprised her that they were empty. She collected as she went determined to figure out a way to improve them and yet nothing sprung to mind. Her traps were slightly less vicious than her father¡¯s. Not made of the same heavy materials but to her mind they were efficient and still in some cases deadly. With each collection she grew angrier. She could note which ones had been used and emptied. Sometimes they were put back almost too perfectly. This signified it was not just the rabbit. She felt betrayed knowing some other villagers were taking advantage of her hard work. Besides she had tried to share everything she had caught so far. If they wanted anything, they need only ask. Probably figured she would just ruin it with her cooking.


    By the last trap closest to the trees and her mother¡¯s shrine Rose was fuming. It seemed all the world was set against her triumph. Then as if summoning him up with thought, the hare appeared. In all of his glowing white glory he weaved in and out of the wood. He seemed to deliberately be trying to get her attention. Had this been yesterday Rose would have found this amusement quite fascinating as it was she picked up a rock and let her sling fly. ¡°I hate you!¡± She missed and ran quickly and picked up another stone. ¡°You did this!¡± She shouted to the air. And air was all that rock struck.


    Finally in the language her mother had taught her and aiming true she cried. ¡°This is your end!¡± The rabbit busted with the impact between the stone and a tree.


    White flew in all directions. Rose gasped only; she didn¡¯t just gawk. Immediately she ran up to the tree and saw the white chunks sliding together of their own accord. There was no blood, bone, skin or fur. It was nothing except sparkling white growing dirty as it dragged around leaving wet trails behind it. Three round lumps formed and they changed.


    Small creatures that looked like a mixture between mice and rabbit began to scurry about. They lined up and began to come toward her. They had no eyes. Rose was truly frightened when one reached her foot she stomped on it and felt it smash and crunch beneath her feet. The cold of it was disconcerting. She turned and ran.


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    She tripped over her own pile of traps.  Just after that a white dove dropped down not too far ahead. Rose looked behind her and saw no mice creatures. As she looked ahead the dove still stared at her hopping closer. How could a rabbit turn into mice, and then into a bird? This had to be a demon. Like the ones in the snow the old men whispered about.


    Snow, the substance her mother had described to her. That was what had been beneath her feet. Rose moved slowly watching the creature; it tilted its head in curious ways as it coed.


    Her hand cupped over another stone. She loaded her sling as she stood slowly not to alarm it. Still, the dove took flight. She had trained with her father to hit flying objects before. As she was about to release she was tackled. A hand closed over her mouth as Rose struggled and tried to scream. One bright pale blue eye, paired with a partially hazel and blue eye looked down at her. The figure was smudged with black and loose strands of blonde white hair hung down brushing Rose¡¯s face.


    ¡°That is my pet you were going to hit.¡± In a grit white teeth flashed as he spoke then he breathed in deeply and made an effort to gentle his features. The filthy boy spoke very slowly as an adult addressing a child, though he was obviously her age, maybe younger.


    ¡°I do not wish to hurt you. I am the boy who has been stealing from your traps. I do not like the village or people. If you tell them I am here I will run and you will never figure out how to catch the old Jack. I am going to release you. Do not scream.¡± He released her mouth with furtive eyes. She breathed in slowly and then coughed and covered her mouth. ¡°Were you on fire?¡± Her eyes watered.


    Hansel thought to himself that next time he might want to lower the scent. It might alarm mortals to come investigate. ¡°Demons smell like ashes.¡± He cleared his throat, ¡°When you smell like ashes a demon does not smell you.¡± The first part of the statement sounded heavy with an accent. By the second half he had corrected his speech to sound like hers.


    ¡°Can you get off me? It is hard to breathe¡± Rose¡¯s face was turning red.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Hansel quickly stood. Rose who was lying over some traps got up more slowly rubbing her back with a wince.


    ¡°Oh my slingshot.¡± Rose got up and pointed to where it was. The moment he looked she ran into the fields. Hansel cursed with a cut off snarl then took off after her.


    ¡°Mother Help!¡± Rose cried while putting up her hood to protect her eyes from the blades that were bound to strike her as she ran. She had a good distance on him and Rose was known to outrun some of the men in the village.


    ¡°Rose? Darling stay back we are cutting!¡± A distant yell came from Elena. ¡°Throw up your cloth I will come find you!¡±


    Rose was still running her fastest when from the side she was collided with once more.


    The boy leapt upon her like a cat and they rolled once over before his hand came to clamp down over her mouth. This time she was biting it fiercely. He did not relent.


    ¡°Please,¡± He whispered heavily, eyes pensive, ¡°Do not tell anyone I am here.¡± She stopped biting after this plea. It was not helping; it did not even break his skin. And he tasted terrible. He winced when he heard Elena calling very close.


    ¡°Where are you?!¡± Rose could tell her Mother¡¯s voice was still merry with a tinge of concern. The hand lifted and she stared at the frightened boy. He tucked and rolled off of her to the other side and through the shoots. Rose was amazed he left no trail to follow. Elena emerged, ¡°There you are darling. You scared me. Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°My traps are all empty and I wanted to come tell you¡­ I fell!¡± Rose put on her best pout.


    ¡°Oh my babe I am sorry. You are having a terrible day are you not?¡± Her Mother scooped her up into a warm and comforting hug. Rose did not even care if there was a secret set of eyes watching.  Her relief of being with someone she trusted outweighed her embarrassment.


    ¡°Look, your face is covered with black dirt. Where is your handkerchief?¡± Behind her Mother in plane sight of Rose a small white hand with narrow fingers slid through the grass and dropped the cloth. It vanished with a rustle that Rose knew meant goodbye. She remembered being curious about that hand before. That feeling had not lessoned in the slightest.

 Golden Teeth

    Chapter 20 Golden Teeth


    ¡°You see Ivan this is why I come to fetch you.¡± Nula¡¯s husband gestured to the closed door. Smoke wafted from underneath. ¡°She will die if she cannot breathe!¡±


    ¡°You did not fetch me. Kel, I was on my way here and you need not fear. This is a difficult birth and those burning herbs are to relieve the pain of your wife.¡± At Ivan¡¯s response Kel sat down grumbling.


    Elena entered with Rose behind her. ¡°It is evening and supper has ended, still nothing?¡±


    ¡°No, Elena perhaps you can go in and aid Grandmother.¡± Kel¡¯s brow had a cold sweat and he anxiously stood.


    ¡°Unnecessary, I shall go.¡± Ivan stood.


    ¡°What? I will not have a man viewing my wife when I cannot even see her!¡± Kel stood outraged. Ivan punched him and he collapsed unconscious.


    ¡°Wife you must fetch some water to awaken him.¡± He leaned in closer and whispered in her ear. ¡°When my mother signals with smoke it means something will or has gone wrong.¡±


    Elena wavered, her brow knit, ¡°Is there nothing else I can¡­¡±


    ¡°Go.¡± Ivan commanded and she left to fetch water from the troth. Rose had wandered into another room and back when her Father entered Nula¡¯s bedroom. Cries rang loudly. She saw Grandmother¡¯s arms wide in the air as she chanted and Nula¡¯s eyes glossy and blank as she smiled holding a little squirming bundle. ¡°This is one baby, one perfect child.¡± She said when she turned and looked at Ivan. Before the door shut Rose saw two chubby legs and feet kicking the air on the cedar chest at the foot of Nula¡¯s bed. That was where most of the crying was coming from. The door closed.


    When Elena entered with water Rose clapped excitedly. ¡°Mother, Nula had twins!¡±


    ¡°That is wonderful darling did your Father tell you?¡± Elena exclaimed.


    ¡°Oh no I saw, I saw it kicking on the chest! Listen two babies cry! And Nula was smiling!¡± Elena leaned on the door and listened. She smiled just before the door opened and Elena rushed in past Grandmother. Ivan had his arms folded under his cape against the back wall. As always he looked grim that did not necessarily mean bad news.


    ¡°Nula are you alright! Elena splashed a little water from the bucket setting it down.¡±


    ¡°Oh yes quite content.¡± Nula said weakly. Her voice rasped a little from the smoke.


    ¡°Are there not two?¡± Elena paused confused to see only one baby. She looked to Ivan; he merely walked out.


    ¡°Oh no, I was mistaken. There was only one.¡±  Nula smiled indulgently at the little bundle in her arms. ¡°One perfect child, have you ever seen anything so perfect? I cannot take my eyes off of him. Her eyes were drooping and distant, she continued to stare at the babe.


    Elena came and put her arm on her friend and agreed. ¡°Yes how lucky you are just to have one. Even just one child is a blessing. She left the mother to have time with the child alone. Out by the front door she scolded Rose.


    ¡°Rose you should not tell lies like that unless you are certain.¡± Elena shook her head.


    ¡°Yes I told her there was only one baby in there. Nula got her thinking from our visits that there were going to be twins.¡± Grandmother grunted as she lifted the heavy water bucket that she had dragged out during Elena¡¯s visit. ¡°I did see and hear it!¡± Rose exclaimed, ¡°You did too Mother.¡± Elena was not paying attention. She was worried Grandmother would injure herself. Yet at the same time was smirking at what the woman was going to do.


    ¡°The ceilings are high in this hata. It makes the baby¡¯s cries echo. Not enough to wake this naysayer though.¡± Grandmother smiled a toothless grin as Elena helped her tip the bucket over the man who spluttered and woke up. ¡°Kel you have a new child!¡±


    ¡°Healthy?¡± Kel wiped his face with his hands and Grandmother nodded.


    ¡°What of Nula?¡± Kel worked his sore jaw.


    ¡°She lives, you must make her comfortable. This was a hard birth.¡±


    Kel jumped up and hugged Grandmother as well as Elena. He then picked up Rose and threw her into the air. Rose might usually enjoy this but her stomach felt sour and the tossing only sickened her more. When she was passed to Elena she whispered into her ear. ¡°Mother, I saw the child. I saw it kicking.¡± Elena frowned as Sadko had said earlier today Rose was not prone to lying.


    ¡°Come we shall leave this proud new family.¡± Babushka finished loosening her rope belt and placed a hand on Elena¡¯s back to guide her out. Once she shut the door she reached out to Rose who dropped from her Mother knowing Grandmother could not support her weight. She took her hands and swung them instead, finally releasing one.


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    ¡°Your mother tells me you are too tired to come to my house this eve. Is that so?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Rose nodded, for she was more sensible than other children and it had been a long exhausting day. Not to mention for the first time with Sadko she had felt her Grandmother¡¯s words had been bad form. ¡°I fell and my legs are hurt.¡±


    Babushka looked displeased. She knelt down feeling Rose¡¯s knees and ankles, even her calves. When satisfied there were only scratches she stood with a painful wince at the pain of her own legs. She gave a rueful glance to Elena.


    ¡°That is why children should not play by the fields. Child come walk with me as far as the woods edge and I shall explain to you how the mind plays tricks.¡± She turned to Elena, ¡°I would have preferred you not brought her today. This was too straining on her.¡±


    ¡°She was curious. Rose seeks out the truth even when it is ugly.¡± Elena interjected too tired to be lectured. ¡°Where is Ivan? I wish to speak with him.¡±


    ¡°He lingers near Sadko¡¯s. The lost traveler has yet to return from early this morning.¡±


    ¡­¡­...


    Ivan waited near the woods edge by Sadko¡¯s home. Dusk had fallen when glowing tinted eyes appeared. There was a dragging noise following them.


    ¡°Help me.¡± Came a deep voice followed by a whine. ¡°His arrows are still silver tipped.¡±


    Ivan tucked the bundle of his cape under his arm. Carefully he approached the Wolf whose leg had three arrows in it. The creature tried to remain silent as each one was pulled free but he clawed at the tree.


    ¡°Did you kill him?¡± Ivan dropped the arrows.


    ¡°No, he saw my approach and struck me from afar.¡± The Wolf snapped. ¡°I chased him to the outer edge near the river. Is that meat I smell?¡±


    ¡°You know the rules, you can only eat travelers and stragglers. The man was for you your fault for letting him escape. He is still a clever woodsman and he will find his way back.¡± Ivan berated and then gestured, ¡°That is his home on the hill. Can you pick up his scent from it?¡±


    ¡°Over there near the well at the start of the village? I am down wind of, wait¡­¡± The monster sniffed and his eyes alighted,


    ¡°What is it? Has he returned?¡± Ivan shifted his weight.


    ¡°Am I allowed to come into the village?¡± The Wolf gave him a curious glance.


    ¡°No the mistress still denies you.¡± Ivan¡¯s eyes narrowed.


    ¡°The man has yet to return to his home. I smell Frost in the air. No doubt he is protecting him since he too travels along the river.¡±


    ¡°That river is becoming a haven to all our irritations.¡± Ivan¡¯s lip curled.


    ¡°Ivan who are you speaking too?!¡± Elena called from a distance.


    ¡°Go,¡± Ivan commanded. The Wolf was already gone. He had left gladly because he had caught the scent of his family in the village and if Ivan discovered this by asking the right questions he might be forced to hunt them there too.


    ¡°I was saying a prayer.¡± Ivan made his face somber as his wife approached. He saw the suspicion on her face.


    ¡°Are you so sorry for Sadko not returning?¡± Elena paused and then gasped.


    ¡°Oh Ivan is that the child you hold, the child that Rose spoke of?¡± The baby was wrapped tightly in the folds of his cape.


    ¡°Its body was twisted.¡± Ivan said somberly. ¡°Its face was deformed. I released it from this world, Nula¡¯s husband does not know. You must not speak of this to them.¡± Ivan looked at her solidly.


    ¡°No, I never will.¡± Elena whispered, eyes welling with tears. She brushed the little bundle with her hand. It shook with the temptation to pull back the cape. Ivan inhaled with disapproval and she let her arm drop.


    ¡°Go take Rose home to bed.¡± Ivan stepped away from her. ¡°I am going to bury the child.¡±


    When Elena returned to Rose and Grandmother they were both looking at a flower plucked from the garden¡¯s tree.


    ¡°You see the color is starting to darken on opposite petals.¡± Grandmother mused.


    ¡°What does that mean?¡± asked Rose.


    ¡°It means that today you have learned more about the world yet still naive. Today you told one lie and one truth. Is that so?¡± Under Babushka¡¯s gaze Rose looked down at her feet.


    ¡°Well I know what the truth was.¡± Elena smiled sadly kneeling before her daughter, ¡°Rose there was a child, it passed, your Father must bury it.¡±


    The rose fell apart and Grandmother threw the petals at Elena. ¡°You had no right to tell her such things.¡±


    ¡°I am her mother and I will not lie to her.¡± Elena suddenly felt very affronted.


    ¡°I will not tell Babushka. It was not your fault.¡± Rose whispered.


    Grandmother hugged her, brushing her hair with knotted fingers. ¡°Thank-you child often when things cannot be healed it is the healer who is blamed.¡± Her eyes narrowed as she looked at Elena and she continued speaking to her Granddaughter. ¡°Your roses will be darker tomorrow. I wonder what your lie was.¡±


    They parted ways. It was only Rose who felt reluctant. She wanted to tell her Babushka of the boy she met yet felt she had made a promise. Grandmother and Elena were relieved to be away from one another. They both felt the other had failed them this day, causing more trouble than expected.


    ¡°Do you have the babe?¡± Baba Yaga ducked onto a side path where she met with Ivan.


    Ivan removed his cape and the baby squirmed and cried suddenly exposed to the cold.


    It was a plump, purple, and perfectly shaped boy. Its round little cheeks trembled and its tongue flapped like the fastest little wing.


    ¡°Boys are best, they are rare and taste better that way.¡± Baba Yaga smacked her lips and unwound the bun on her head eagerly. ¡°Place him on the stone altar.¡± She commanded,


    Ivan did so. Baba Yaga took out her gold teeth hidden inside her shall. This was a special occasion. A newborns soul was something to be savored, its purity too much. The gold helped to combat this bad aftertaste. She unhinged her jaw licking her lips before sliding the back spikes into her gums. She enjoyed the pain. Ivan moved behind buckling the leather straps that held the metal in firm.


    ¡°This should be a better fit.¡± He released her head. The baby continued to cry until she approached it with a distinct metal chatter. This was not like earlier when magically the cloak had hidden its movements and sound. This silence was instinct, for babies could sense when a Lueda Yedka was hungry and near. It made them fear to exit the womb. When held by another they cried for that person¡¯s aid. All alone, it''s only defense was to hope it was unseen by the demon whose eyes were equally as cloudy. Blood splattered across the altar.

 Fedor

    Chapter 21 Fedor


    Sadko awoke shivering and with a groan. His own bow was smacking his head lightly. His forehead bled and arrows rattled as he shifted. He found himself straddled across a log heading down river back toward Volhov. His vision blurred in and out.


    A man was holding the other end of his bow and tapping him as he spoke. ¡°Well you are alive. That is a wonder. I was certain that the river was where you were to meet your end. Perhaps I was mistaken.¡± Sadko saw behind him the man had the nerve to stand on the log. He used a long birch branch to steer it as easily as if it were a boat.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Sadko rasped. The man sparkled with fine embroidered clothes and a well formed breastplate. His hair was spiky, and depending on how he moved his head it either appeared white, or tinted blue glistening with drops. His face looked chiseled from stone and yet he had the most congenial smile.


    ¡°Ah me you can see! How interesting, it must be your delirium. Normally only humans with the sight can see me. Or chosen heroes, something you passed up on I am afraid. I know for a fact you are not immortal. Your life pattern is unraveling.¡±


    ¡°What are you babbling about?¡± Sadko tried to sit up but the log started rolling and he gripped it out of fear.


    ¡°Fedor is what you may call me. I really do not understand you humans. You would rather have introductions than express gratitude.¡±


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    ¡°Fedor, Elena used to tell me stories of you when she was a child. She said you were the voice of Father Winter. She has not seen you for years.¡± Recollection was making Sadko¡¯s feel even queasier as the log rocked.


    ¡°That is for lack of trying. No matter, I have given up being an ambassador. I seem to be very terrible with your language. In this season I am working as a bounty hunter for Lady Spring who is very angered by her stolen bounty.¡± Fedor sighed giving another push with his branch. ¡°It is very difficult. I hunt an immortal hiding among mortals, protected by a demon controlling the soulless. Then of course there is the Kostchey who hunts me and wishes to steal my power.¡± Fedor shook his head with a smile when Sadko only stared at him blankly.


    ¡°Well there are rules I do not expect you to understand,¡± Fedor rolled his eyes. ¡°Not in this state anyway, however, you do have enough heroes spark left inside to relay a message and bring me a delivery.¡±


    ¡°Heroes spark?¡± Sadko touched his face shocked to discover blood dripped down his cheek.


    ¡°You must not be modest! Why I watched you shoot straight through the trees and hit the mark not once but thrice! Pity Elena did not do as she was bid you most certainly would have won her. Of course you did panic when you heard a noise and fell into the river.¡± Fedor dropped the branch in the water. As he stepped across the log to Sadko it did not even waver. He seemed to glow of moonlight, the sky behind him was changing to the hue of a lavender morning.


    ¡°The sun is rising and soon I shall lose you so let us make this swift.¡± Fedor placed his hand over Sadko¡¯s head giving it a tingling, numbing sensation. Fedor faded away. Sadko looked to see his bow was still over his shoulder, awkwardly tangled with his arrows and rapping the back of his head. The log hit the side of the bank and Sadko twisted and fumbled onto it. He began to run but the shaking of the world around him was making him dizzy. When he paused, in the bushes a set of bright eyes stared back at him. He collapsed to his knees shivering and wet and then all went dark.

 Order of White

    Chapter 22 Order of White


    ¡°Mother, why do you only leave a tiny pirog here? You cook a greater one for Babushka.¡± Rose did not know her inquiry was rude. Elena batted her daughter¡¯s hand away from the stuffed bread.


    ¡°You must not touch that after it is placed. It is not ours anymore.¡± Elena watched her daughter shrug and climb up the trunk of a tree, her spirit not injured in the least.


    Her curiosity was not hurt either for she simply changed to a different question. Amazing that today was Rose¡¯s birthday for like the seasons she had not changed a bit.


    ¡°Mother what would hurt snow?¡± Rose had made it to her destination far out on the thickest branch. Her mother was kneeling before the shrine. She smiled up at her daughter.


    ¡°You speak of it as something living.¡± Elena brushed off her dress as she stood. Rose had not the patience for prayers yet.


    ¡°Well several days ago I saw a bird that was all white. What if it were made of snow? Could anything hurt it?¡± Rose looked up at the nest above her. It looked to be abandoned.


    ¡°Did you sneak up to play with Sadko¡¯s geese? Has he returned home?¡± Her Mother was more concerned with the latter than the first. Sadko had not come to play his music at dinner the last two nights yet someone said they had seen movement behind the shutters of his hata.


    ¡°No, I do not want Father to be angry with me.¡± Rose used a stick to lift the empty birds nest down to her. ¡°Father said he would come home early so I could practice lessons with him and then he will show me how to make better traps.¡±


    Elena sighed; Ivan had been a more attentive Father since Sadko¡¯s disappearance. It was probably because of his guilt for the words he had spoken.


    ¡°Mother, I want to know how to trap snow. I cannot speak of snow with Father or Babushka for they get mad.¡± Rose dropped down from the tree. The branch she had climbed up on had not been that high.


    ¡°You cannot trap snow Rose. When you do it melts.¡± Elena cupped her hands with a fond memory. ¡°Snow does not like heat or sun or warm skin.¡±


    ¡°Is there a way to keep it melted for good?¡± Rose examined the nest, it was much better than any of the baskets she had made.


    ¡°Rose, it has been melted, for good, look around you.¡± Elena took her daughters hand and they began to walk.


    ¡°What about when it sneaks in during the cold of the morning.¡± Rose twisted a loose strand by her ear wondering if she was saying too much.


    ¡°Darling, that is hardly snow. That is the Frost. He is a servant of Father Winter but still mingles with autumn and spring even summer at times. The Frost can be unexpected even though you feel the cold of his arrival.¡±


    ¡°Can you speak to it?¡± Rose pondered, ¡°Tell it to go away?¡±


    Elena pinched the bridge of her nose. ¡°You are trying to get me in trouble with your Grandmother aren¡¯t you? Only she knows how to keep the cold out. Mine are the old ways of the order of white. These ways only invited the Old Jack in.¡±


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    ¡°Why do you call it the Old Jack?¡± Rose¡¯s eyes lit up remembering that name before.


    ¡°Well,¡± Elena stopped walking, looking around nervously to see if anyone might approach unseen and hear this forbidden lesson.


    ¡°There are many Jacks you see, wise creatures and godly servants who walk among men. The Frost is just one of them. It¡¯s a special kind of creature that has a fascination with humans, mostly women. It is a trickster and also a rogue. If you play a grand trick it may deem you worthy to speak too. If you trick a Jack it will give you a reward. And if a Jack is tricked three times something wondrous will happen.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Rose¡¯s eyes were wide.


    ¡°It is impossible. No one has ever tricked a Jack. Many have hunted them and sought to steal their powers; each Jack is different and has a different set of rules and rewards. They often disguise themselves or use other animals or objects to do their bidding. They say that Jack Frost is the Jack of all Jacks. So skillful in his elements of water, air and earth that he earned the friendship of the Ferryman as a comrade.  No mortal has ever tricked him either.¡±


    ¡°Do you mean the Ferryman who carries us to the other side? Do you mean Death?¡± Rose paled even as her mind bubbled with more questions.


    Elena nodded gravely, ¡°Because of this most mortals do not even risk whatever reward there may be. The Frost has learned well from his comrade the ability to take lives with a single touch. He feels no remorse once the deed is done considering it a gift to his dear friend for the talent.¡± Seeing the look of fright on her daughter¡¯s face Elena amended her telling. Yet she did not lie for fear of bringing down Father Winter¡¯s wrath. ¡°As a Jack he does have a curious sympathy to mortals. He understands the imbalance of such an arrangement with his abilities. He tries to only take mortals that death deems ripe giving them every opportunity to live for the mere sport of it. Any real challenger that faces him is usually another immortal.¡±


    ¡°Was it your Mother who taught you of this because of the order of White?¡± Rose tilted her head as her mother stooped down to pick a flower.


    ¡°Well no.¡± Elena blushed. ¡°Though, my Mother was present with me.¡± She tucked the flower behind Elena¡¯s ear. ¡°When she knew my sight was growing stronger she took me up the hill to cast the blessings of the elements into the waters of the well. Fedor would appear and tell me what was to be said to make our waters clear and cool. He was for a long while my greatest teacher and friend. He also spoke on behalf of the deities, mostly Father Winter. Mother had a difficult time seeing him as much as I could. So many other responsibilities burdened her mind. After the first snows Fedor and I would tumble down the hill or slide down it using the large bucket. We rushed with such speed over the snow. He would often jest in a scary manner pretending to fall and crack his head and then he would disappear.


    ¡°Will I get to speak to Fedor someday?¡± Rose jumped up and down. Sliding down a hill sounded like great fun.


    Elena nearly stuffed her apron in the child¡¯s mouth. The sight was something she never wished her child to have. These many years she refused to use her own for fear of what she might see. ¡°No you must not Rose not ever! As I told you these were the old ways, mistaken arts of worship. Our foolishness only made Father Winter content to stay here. Fedor knew this for he was and is his agent. Back then our village suffered and beasts¡¯ waged war against us. That is why I give Fedor only small thanks, too great and his vanity will overwhelm us.¡±


    ¡°What do you put in his little pirog?¡± Rose raised a brow and tapped her foot in a curious manner that made her Mother hold in laughter. Though she knew she was doing wrong speaking of these old memories to her daughter it was a relief and release.


    ¡°Mostly apples and mint,¡± she smiled, ¡°I remember even making garlands out of mint when I went to visit with him and it was not snowing. The essence of winter lies inside that strange plant even though that is when it does not grow. The apples are small.¡±


    ¡°Mother I wish to make one. A pirog I mean.¡± Rose tucked the little nest away in a pocket in her cape. At this point a smart woman should have been alarmed.  Elena was not a smart woman. All of the greatest knowledge she had retained she had just given to her child. She no longer felt a fear of discovery, only a maternal pride. Finally! Finally! Elena had gotten Rose to want to learn how to cook.

 Touched

    Chapter 23 Touched


    ¡°I cannot believe you went looking for him in the woods alone!¡± said a boy¡¯s voice.


    ¡°It was no less dangerous than you playing with your food.¡± a girl retorted.


    ¡°Well at least you found our merchant. What made you bring him back?¡±


    ¡°I did not want strangers to start coming around do to his absence. Plus there is something strange about him. He continues to repeat the same words. At first I thought it was his fever. Then I realized he was touched.¡±


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    ¡°By whom, this could be a trick.¡±


    Sadko opened his eyes to see two white blonde youths. Their images along with the room continued to stretch and shrink. All he could say was: ¡°Find the stones. Find the lake. Destroy the garden.¡± He did this with chattering teeth as a great chill came over him. The girl put a warm cloth upon his head. ¡°Rest, be still. We have heard you.¡± Sadko felt one last burst of cold in his mind. There was a flash as white as snow that formed into a lovely woman dancing. He sat up and threw his arms around this woman. ¡°I will win you my love!¡±


    Hansel snarled and punched the merchant out.


    ¡°You are impossible,¡± Gretel placed her hands on her hips. ¡°He only gave me a hug.¡±


    ¡°He has a fever. He needs his rest.¡± Hansel gritted and turned away, folding his arms.


    Gretel giggled and tended Sadko¡¯s newest bruise.

 Being Molded

    Chapter 24 Being Molded


    Rose leaned in with interest as her Father hammered the iron before him. When it was hot it moved quite easily as sparks flew, it molded this way and that. Rose had climbed up to a higher shelf pushing aside many trinkets so she could still stay out of the way. The cat had jumped up next to her and it rolled contentedly in her arms while she stroked it. The object hissed for it was being placed in water for the final time. Rose dared to ask, ¡°Father Do demons really smell like ashes?¡±


    ¡°That depends on what kind of demon it is.¡± Ivan turned around and hung his tools next to her. ¡°Who told you that?¡±


    Rose shrugged, ¡°The older girls are always telling stories.¡± Ivan could tell she was lying but pressed no further. Rose on the other hand had just begun.


    ¡°What kinds of demons smell like ashes?¡±  The cat wanted to jump down. It was getting agitated with her talking.


    ¡°There are demons that are from deep under the earth where hellfire lurks. Mostly they like to possess others or eat them. Lueda Yedka is the name used in this land. Man eaters. Only flesh and souls have taste to them. Where I am from they are called witches.¡±


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    ¡°I have heard of witches from my mother, Do they not hate fire? People burn them.¡± Rose jumped down to follow her father out.


    ¡°Not a true dark witch. They love the fire and the heat. Even if their body is truly destroyed by it they go and possess another. Of course usually many are so skilled with fire that it does not harm them but most people do not know this. When a witch burning takes place, and it works, that only means that they were not very powerful, white witches, or perhaps not witches at all.¡±


    ¡°How does someone destroy a witch?¡± Rose tried to grab Catkin. He rushed out to the door.


    ¡°You should go to Grandmother in the garden to finish your basket lesson.¡± Ivan wiped his hands with water from inside the troth.


    ¡°Oh I finished that yesterday, see!¡± She proudly picked up and displayed her craftsmanship that was hidden in the grass. ¡°Although Babushka was angry because Mother has already taught me some of the words to chant.¡±


    ¡°Why chant words to begin with?¡± Ivan strapped on his ax.


    ¡°So it will carry all I need and nothing I do not. I will go to the kitchen to help Mother.¡± Little Rose Red skipped away happily to have spent almost the whole day with her Father though perhaps he had barely noticed.


    ¡°Farewell child, I will see you at dinner.¡± Ivan gave a wave. He wondered if he had said too much. His mistress had insisted the child be brought up to be intelligent, beautiful and strong. Perhaps too much intelligence was not good yet.

 Golden Goose

    Chapter 25 Golden Goose


    In the loft of the barn Gretel¡¯s head hung upside down, her beautiful hair flowing downward matching only the lightest colored straw. She watched with a bored expression as her brother fed the geese below. ¡°This is stupid why can I not go back into the woods? What are we waiting for?¡±


    ¡°I am awaiting an opportunity and an advantage.¡± Hansel lifted a handful of seed up to his dove which had just flown down to his shoulder. ¡°I feel somehow like we were drawn to this place. I must follow my instincts.¡± He observed the ugly hatchling closely.


    ¡°What of my instincts? Or the message that certainly came from Frost.¡± Gretel rolled over and looked at him annoyed.


    ¡°Yes, let us think about that.¡± Hansel cast the rest of the seed away to the dove¡¯s dismay.


    ¡°Well obviously he wants us to destroy the garden, find the stones and find the lake.¡± Gretel examined her nails after putting up three fingers.


    ¡°I wonder if the order is right. Remember people who are touched often get confused.¡± Hansel noted and Gretel had to agree most prophecies ended badly because the bearer had not gotten to the point soon enough.


    ¡°Well I am sure her garden is well guarded with spells. We cannot even find her chicken hut in the woods.¡± Gretel¡¯s whittling using her nail on the flat board beneath turned into a carved design that matched the chairs in the kitchen.


    ¡°There you go with the woods again. It is the lake we are supposed to find not Izboushka her malevolent pet hata. She probably has them both covered with mirages.¡± Hansel was a little put off by her constant impulsiveness without weighing consequences.


    ¡°Mirages, oh Brother I did not think of that. We are going to have to make her cast a huge spell in order to weaken the false view. I would hate to think this is all just one big ugly trick.¡± Gretel blew the wooden chips from her nails.


    ¡°True, who is to say one of us will even be near it when the magic wavers. We would probably have to split up and not forget The Frost may be seeking allegiance from us only temporarily as it is doubtful he has forgiven.¡±


    Hansel stroked his dove¡¯s neck until it flapped and flew up to the rafters. A noise and a deep shadow cast through the doorway made Hansel jump behind some barrels and Gretel bury herself quickly in straw. The smell of mint filled the air, the very essence of Father Winter. The Frost had come for them.


    Rose entered the barn timidly. The dove flew down circling her with loud coos.


    ¡°Hello,¡± she whispered. Perhaps because she knew its owner was near, or because the coming dusk made her nervous. ¡°I brought you a present.¡±


    She pulled the nest out from the basket, in many ways they resembled one another. She climbed up onto the top of the entry frame with an expertise that was surprising given her size and placed the nest above it. She let herself drop and landed agile but was still shaking off the impact.


    ¡°I know you are here.¡± Rose dared speak a little louder. ¡°You do not need to be afraid. Sadko is down eating dinner with the rest of the village.¡±


    Hansel decided it would still be too risky a time to reveal himself, knowing Gretel was cursing him under her breath. It was one thing to meet this girl by accident out in the open. This was their safe haven. Besides, she had no real proof that he was there. His dove flew over to the top of the barrels. ¡°Traitor,¡± He whispered when Rose¡¯s line of sight soon followed. He moved around so she still could not see him.


    ¡°Come out, I know you''re there.¡± She heard his movements in the straw nonetheless.


    He spoke in a gentle yet forceful manner. ¡°Go away, you''re going to get me caught. Besides, you are not allowed to visit Sadko anymore.¡±


    ¡°I suppose Sadko knows you are here stealing his clothes and sleeping with his geese.¡± Rose said wickedly.


    ¡°Why that¡­¡± Gretel growled slowly, staying hidden herself.


    ¡°Do you have more pets?¡± Rose looked up at the loft concerned and Hansel stepped out. He grabbed his dove, perching it on his finger. The movement was deft and smoothly he swerved the bird past her eyes to distract her.


    ¡°Just her, she is sad because she lost her mate.¡± The dove opened its wings wide in assistance.


    ¡°Did the Lueda Yedka get him?¡± Rose whispered wide eyed as they followed the bird.


    ¡°Who told you that?¡± Hansel got in her face rather quickly. Rose stepped back with balled up little fists, ready to fight. ¡°You did clod! You said a demon hunted you that smelled like ashes!¡±


    Out of the corner of his eye he saw a haystack tremble. His sister was going to clobber him good after this little tryst. All the talks he had given her about being reckless. He stepped back placing the dove on his shoulder. ¡°Right, sorry. Just do not shout okay?¡±


    ¡°I just wanted to bring you some food so you would not have to wait until the sun went down to steal it.¡± Rose took his hand and led him over to the basket.  Her brazenness surprised him. She seemed to fear nothing. When she lifted the handkerchief the aroma of mint was strong.


    ¡°I was practicing making pirog. These did not turn out so well. I figured you might want them. If you do not, I will also bring some food from the table.¡±


    ¡°My thanks,¡± he gave a little bow. ¡°You are going to be missed, you should return.¡± Hansel stooped down and grabbed out her burned pirogs and nothing else. Her mother had baked his foot unwittingly. He would not touch anything she made. Plus there was a curse on the rest of the food. He could smell it like a bad stench. She was looking up at him expectantly. He winced and bit into one. ¡°Yum I like mint.¡± He made a show of it. Well at least his breath would smell sweet for days now.


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    ¡°They think I am using the troth to clean up after making a mess in the kitchen. Actually there was a big flour spill.¡± She sat down cross legged and embarrassed. ¡°So you really like it?¡±


    His hackles were up. He saw that she had a keen interest in him. An interest he by no means wanted to cultivate.


    ¡°Well to tell you the truth, I do not like that much mint. Why did you put so much in? It burns my nose.¡± Hansel was relieved to put up his hand to rub it.


    Rose sighed, her eyes completely lost intrigue. ¡°Well I guess that means you are not Fedor. I thought maybe you worked for Father Winter.¡±


    ¡°You thought I was the Frost?!¡± Hansel laughed.


    ¡°No, Fedor, the voice of Father Winter!¡± Rose picked out a roll and he watched the taint disappear from it before she placed it in her mouth. Some kind of blessing was on her perhaps?


    ¡°Guess it is better that you are not. Those really were not my best pirog.¡± She chewed out her frustration.


    ¡°Sorry to disappoint you.¡± He smirked, she ate like his sister. ¡°I try my best not to lie if I can help it.¡±


    ¡°You said you could help me get rid of the Old Jack, really its Father Winter that commands him so I thought..¡± once again Rose sighed.


    ¡°Well I am an albino. I can see why my appearance might seem strange to you.¡± Hansel decided that no one was coming after her as yet so he sat down and began eating with true vigor.


    ¡°What is an albino?¡± Rose¡¯s arched brow accented her curiosity.Hansel shrugged just shrugged. He did not want to talk about it. He already seemed to be having trouble telling her too much.


    ¡°Well you look half starved. I have never seen a boy thinner than I. You see all the other boys around here are...¡± She cupped her cheek with one hand. As she tilted her head and looked at him.


    ¡°Fat,¡± Hansel finished with a gulp and a smile.


    ¡°Younger than I,¡± Rose shook her head but smiled at his honest insult.


    ¡°Of course, the Lueda Yedka put a curse on this land. Everyone around here is supposed to get nice and fat. Boys cannot grow to manhood; she eats them.¡± Hansel was speaking wickedly until there was a hiss from the haystack above.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Hansel took Rose¡¯s wrist when her head was turning sharply.


    ¡°Just rats,¡± He bit a chunk of the bread out of her hand. She turned beat red when her face turned back because he was still holding her wrist and she was confused.


    ¡°What? It looked better when you were eating it.¡± He swallowed with an impertinent air and threw her hand back at her. She rolled her eyes and stood up and began throwing bits of bread in the nest. ¡°Do you think he will like it?¡± Rose gestured to the dove.


    ¡°She is what she remembers.¡± Hansel said annoyed,


    ¡°Oh right well?¡± Rose jerked her head towards the nest to get an answer.


    ¡°I suppose, why do you not look at your own bird?¡± Hansel yawned so she would go away if he pretended to want a nap after eating.


    ¡°Yes my bird!¡± Rose spun around excitedly realizing all the little goslings had hatched. Hers was very ugly in shape and beak, obviously not a gosling at all.


    ¡°It has the loveliest gold sheen on its feathers.¡± Rose wasn¡¯t just looking with a proud mother¡¯s eyes clearly she was capable of seeing auras and that was a matter of importance.


    ¡°I already fed it so do not bother.¡± Hansel warned as she crouched down to watch her little darling.


    ¡°How did you know it was mine?¡± Rose knew it looked different yet her name was not written on it.


    ¡°Sadko has called it yours every morning he has come in here.¡± Hansel stood and peaked through a loose slat realizing the man could soon come back at any moment.


    ¡°He remembers nothing of the argument with my Father. He suffered many injuries to the head. He could be playing down below as we speak.¡± Rose looked at his nervous stance. ¡°Tell him you are here. He is really kind. He has always wanted a son like my Father.¡± At her words Hansel shook his head defiantly.


    Rose shrugged and reassured him. ¡°Anyway, we still have a deal. You teach me how to get rid of the Old Jack and I will not tell anyone you are here.¡±


    Hansel considered scaling opportunities with the dangers. On the one hand he had here the witch¡¯s most prized possession. At any moment she had the mouth to give him away. He could kill her and get revenge in a very swift manner, or perhaps a trade? Foolishly, the Lueda Yedka would be too clever to negotiate with. She would just find a way to seize them. On the other hand if the girl was loyal they could have a spy on the inside; someone that the Lueda Yedka would never expect to turn on her. The little girl was never  in danger of being harmed physically at least.


    ¡°Very well I did promise. Meet me out in the fields tomorrow in the morning after lessons with your Father and before your Babushka comes. Go before you are discovered missing.¡± He handed her the basket back to encourage the departure.


    Rose still stubbornly would not budge. ¡°Were you born a Prince to order others around so? Or perhaps you think I am one of your trained pets?¡±


    Hansel growled as she looked upon her gosling stroking its soft feathers with her finger. ¡°Are you still hungry, oh great master?¡± she said with exasperation as her hand went back into her basket. She had not been looking at him and thought it was his stomach. She threw a tomato at him. He caught it reflexively and launched it right back. It splattered on her dress.


    ¡°At least I am not as spoiled as a headman¡¯s daughter.¡± He almost caught another when he saw his sister¡¯s finger come up in warning so instead he let the fruit hit his head. He had realized he had made a mistake, just then. If she started to witness his abilities all trust gained would be lost.


    As Rose watched the launched slime slide down his face she clutched her stomach giggling. As her cheeks grew red this time his stomach growled for real. He got down at his haunches and pounced. Rose rolled out of the way surprisingly fast. She dumped the basket over his head. Whatever contents rolled down over him he caught and began to catapult at her. She liked this game even better, dodging this way and laughing even when she got hit. None of the other children had played active games like this with her before.


    What she did not realize was Hansel was no longer playing. Her running was making him salivate. She was clever too, weaving in and out of the hay stacks as he followed, making his excitement heighten. He made another leap at her from behind when surprisingly she used his own move. She grabbed his wrist and outstretched arm and used his own momentum to flip him over onto his back into the hay.


    ¡°That¡¯s a headman¡¯s daughter for you!¡± She laughed merrily, grabbing her empty basket and running outside. ¡°See you tomorrow!¡±


    Her basket hit the frame on the way out and the little nest fell upside down on the ground. The dove landed near pushing it aside behind a beam. It was only interested in the bread next to it.


    Hansel¡¯s canines grew thick and his eyes glowed, he moved to get up and chase her just as two arms interlocked him from behind. How his sister had moved undetected to the bottom level he had no idea nor did he care. Only her strength was capable of holding him back during this crucial time of change.


    ¡°Patience brother, I saw your mind as it was clear and this was not its intention. The sun weakens you with its setting while the moon pulls at you with its rising. Many a night you have saved me from taking the life of that bachelor. Think how much worse this would be. She wears a cloak of protection that would surely lead you to its maker once you intended her true harm. Think you wretched, starving beast of her silver clasp which would burn you as soon as you went for her throat.¡±


    Hansel breathed until he was calm. Even the geese had all gathered and cowered in a corner away from him. Of course he would not be so foolish. If Sadko complained of animals eating his stock the hunter would be upon them. Irritably he picked up a half smashed pirog and chewed. It was burnt and that helped, it reminded him of some of the witches he had eaten before. He turned to see his sister deep in thought. Unlike him the moon always seemed to heighten her mind. Seeing his curious stare she smiled.


    ¡°I was just thinking,¡± she stretched out and lay back in the hay, ¡°how much I have always admired cloaks.¡±

 Ivashko

    Chapter 26 Ivashko


    ¡°Ivashko, Ivashko! Where are you?!¡± cried the voice of his Mother.


    ¡°We have come to find you! To rescue you!¡± cried the voice of his Father.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Ivashko plugged his ears with his fingers while he crouched in his boat. A short distance away he saw a splash and Baba Yaga came to the shore cackling after hours of circling the lake and calling to him near and far. It was her toy. A voice box made from the throat of a werewolf. It could mimic every sound. She never got bored with it even after acquiring new toys.


    ¡°Remember the little boy long ago, the boy who cried that a beast ate Elena¡¯s parents? It wasn¡¯t long after that I chose to bond you to this place.¡±


    ¡°I should have known you a betrayer, you ash spurned adder. You fork tongued soul sucking knob kneed¡­¡± he began to shout with hate. She only breathed in the insults like a warm steam from a fine cup of cider


    ¡°Oh how I adore you! Oh how you thrill me with your sulky sufferings!¡± she clapped.


    ¡°Baba Yaga let me go. Let me go and I will kiss you. Is that not what you want? Have not, you lusted for me all of these years?¡± It had taken long nights of his stomach churning for him to finally produce this butter from his lips. Days of him rotting upon this lake for him to consider dying little deaths.


    ¡°You tease you tramp.¡± She snarled, ¡°You both jest and beguile and neither very well. Lust, you do not know the meaning of the word.¡± She lay down next to the water and as she swirled the waters of Lake Visage with her hand her own image began to change. She was lovely, sleek and dark with black hair and full red lips. ¡°To lust you must want, you must need. A face like yours would have the world bearing itself to you like a painted whore never truly needing what would fall into your lap.¡± She looked up at him batting her lashes.


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    ¡°Remember when you thought to leave. Run away from this village and from me whom you suspected of malicious intent. Your thoughts to that pretty young thing creating a new life far from my madness. What you did not understand is long ago I chose you for my own. I desired you with your brown curls and sharp cunning. I saw right away that you could have the power to be worshiped among men and women alike. That you could make a King into a slave if you so wished it. And so by making you my slave I could conquer the world.¡±


    ¡°Never while this will is alive in me shall I give myself to you freely ever again! My offer was repugnant to my ears just as you are to my sight!¡± Ivashko splashed the lake and her image wavered back to the wrinkled and frayed hag that she was.


    ¡°That''s my boy.¡± She smiled her toothless grin. ¡°I know that false imagery does not work on you. That you desire something true and natural and because I¡­¡± Her face became even more twisted and ugly as she stood with pain. ¡°I know of true lust and vanity! I who see your weakness reflected in this lake. I will give you what you desire. I will mold to fit your whims so that you will know what it is like to be the whore falling before my feet!¡±


    ¡°I see a snake playing with its food, coiling and recoiling with the intent to devour. I am more than a mouse you try to swallow up within you. I am a mongoose and these teeth have an edge to them that still thirsts to be tried!¡± The stars faded and so did the witch at his shouts. That was the worst part of it. Crying out and not being heard. Not by her. Not by anyone, his echoes sounding foolish on the wind. His sheltered mind forced to spend another day alone on this unholy, unnatural lake. Where was his Mother? Where was his Father? Did they care? Were they dead? In the end would it matter? Was he to become like all the other mindless monsters she controlled?

 Up a tree

    Chapter 27 Up a tree


    Rose pushed aside some shafts so that she could get a better look at the almost non existent trail. Not too far ahead it just ended. She looked around for places he might be hiding. She had circled this place twice already. The boy had not been specific about where to meet in the fields. Then again she had run out rather quickly.


    Rose felt nervous about being caught by the adults. Mother did not know she was here nor her Father who had gone off to hunt. The field hands were all very close and she wondered for a moment if he had cowered and ran away thinking that she might have told on him,once he had spotted her Mother coming with the others to work. She sighed and sat down exhausted from circling. He popped up from under the ground almost right next to her. She was startled, that quickly gave way to awe.


    ¡°This is amazing!¡± she exclaimed examining his little trench and covering. ¡°You made it blend in so well!¡±


    ¡°Too well,¡± He stretched as he made motions with his hands to indicate she should lower her voice to his cautionary whisper while she continued to inspect his speedily made den. ¡°You paced over the top of me several times.¡±


    ¡°You could have come out.¡± She said matter of fact.


    ¡°I wanted to know what you were looking for. You seemed so concentrated. Then I realized it was my breadcrumbs you were following. So I decided to have some fun.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean breadcrumbs? I did not see any bread.¡± Rose squinted at the ground around her.


    Hansel smiled broadly in that parental way she found irritating. ¡°That is the nickname I give to the false trails I make. Breadcrumbs are made to vanish and be eaten up. I leave them around to confuse the Lueda Yedka. That you could even find one tells me you have very good skills in tracking and you are faintly using your sight.¡±


    Rose tossed her brown hair one little auburn streak caught the light of the sun. Her mouth was in a stubborn set as she continued to examine and make a note of what had eluded her. ¡°Well I found you. I just could not see you. There is a difference.¡±


    ¡°It is a very big difference. You only found me because I wanted you too.¡± He cupped his mouth and coed. His dove flew to him from out of the woods.


    ¡°What is her name?¡± Rose jumped up from a squat, her hand reaching greedily for the bird. Hansel took a step back as a typical little boy protecting his property.


    ¡°I do not want to tell anyone. Once she is named she is owned. I would rather she be free.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you do not tell me your name?¡±  Rose was trying to put the grass dirt cover back as before so that it looked undisturbed but she was having difficulty with it. He knelt down showing her through action what needed to be done.


    ¡°Does it bother you that you do not know it?¡± Hansel¡¯s smirk showed that he was not going to tell her. Indeed the rule among his pack was only allow someone you were certain of killing the pleasure of your name.


    ¡°No, I can manage.¡± Rose twisted some grass with her fingers, ¡°The miller plays such a game. I should think I will get rather bored of playing the same game twice. And it is a little annoying thinking of you in my head as that boy.¡±


    ¡°You say the miller will not reveal his name? How often does he come to town?¡± Hansel kept his voice calm.


    ¡°Hardly ever, Sadko does all his delivering though more often than not his mead goes bad and we have to dump it in the ground.


    ¡°Let¡¯s play a new game!¡± Hansel bounded up once everything was good and covered. His soft hair bounced in the sunlight as he trotted away at what he thought was an easy pace to follow.


    ¡°Not so fast!¡± Rose stumbled behind him as she ran. He paused just long enough to grab her hand and then tow her along at a terrible speed. She was not used to anyone being faster than her. His long nimble fingers were woven tightly with hers and the pressure of them hurt a little.


    ¡°We have to hurry you know or they will spot us. They are moving to another part of the field.¡± Hansel spoke just as she was about to complain. When they reached the forest edge she dug her heels in and pulled back. ¡°No I can¡¯t.¡±


    Hansel¡¯s face was mocking. ¡°I knew it! I knew you would be too scared to go in.¡±


    ¡°I am not allowed.¡±  Rose stomped her little foot and folded her arms.


    ¡°Why aren''t you older than I am? I have lived in the woods.¡± He ducked playfully behind a bush with a smile.


    ¡°My Father said a good son would stay away from the woods until of age...¡± Rose pouted using a finger to trace the crags of bark on the tree she refused to pass.


    Hansel taunted poking his head out much farther off. It was a wonder he even heard her. ¡°A good son,¡± He scoffed, ¡°All boys are deviants and encouraged to become so! Brave men know when to break the rules when it counts!¡± He dove back into hiding to entice her to search. She only became agitated. There was a long expanse of silence except for the cutting of blades far behind her. Rose turned determined not to get drawn into trouble. She clenched her teeth taking a few steps back towards the field. ¡°You blow a fine wind.¡±


    ¡°Enough to blow down a hata!¡± he cheerfully jumped out from another tree right beside her.  ¡°Come on! I was going to show you where the Frost comes from.¡±


    That did it. She pulled back to him like a toy on a string. Soon they were winding their way through the shady expanse. As shadows moved Rose whispered more softly.


    ¡°What about the Lueda Yedka? I thought you were trying to hide from her?¡± Rose teased.


    ¡°Today is no different than any other day.¡± Hansel shrugged. She felt this was a foolish statement. It certainly felt different to her.


    ¡°Do you know the way to your Babushka¡¯s hata from here?¡± Hansel decided to be direct.


    ¡°Why?¡± Rose asked even as he hoped she wouldn¡¯t.


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    ¡°Well you don¡¯t want her to catch us out here do you?¡± Hansel paused holding aside some branches so she could get by.


    ¡°Babushka won¡¯t find us. She would be visiting the miller by now. He borrows her cat.¡±


    ¡°I think you don¡¯t know which way it is from here.¡± Hansel continued in further only a little and then stopped to look up at a great tree.


    ¡°Well, we are on a different course. Not that it would matter because my Father changes them every time.¡± Rose set down her basket and began to dig through it. Since the boy was showing signs of hesitating to go any farther in. She wondered if he were doing that for her sake, or if her talk of the witch had taken away some of his courage.


    ¡°How do you mean? I see you enter the same way every time.¡± Hansel questioned. He would never take those paths. No doubt they were covered with wards and spells.


    ¡°The landmarks change, the only thing that ever stays the same is the tingling of my nose. My Babushka pinches it often and I think it remembers that house more than I do.¡±


    Hansel snickered, ¡°I hear your Grandmother¡¯s house is made of candy and sweets. You always smell like gingerbread after visiting her.¡±


    ¡°You must be hungry. Here I brought you some more treats.¡± She handed him another burnt pirog.


    ¡°I¡¯m hungry all the time.¡± He quickly swallowed the cake before he did anything stupid.


    ¡°Hey we were supposed to share it!?¡± Rose stood up indignantly once again and her curiosity over ruled her anger. ¡°How did you swallow it whole like that without chewing?¡±


    ¡°Guess I take after my birds.¡± His dove had landed on the same tree he had been staring at. ¡°Is this too tall for you to climb?¡±


    ¡°Well I have never climbed one so tall before¡­¡± Rose admitted nervously.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take off that hood? After all it will only catch on the branches and make you fall.¡± He climbed up to the first branch and hung upside down by his legs.


    ¡°Thanks for the lovely thought.¡± Rose rolled her eyes and tickled his exposed ribs until he dropped into a roll laughing.


    Hansel stood up. She balled up her fists ready for a fight. He only tugged her hood off playfully. She didn¡¯t even have a chance to see his hand. ¡°Here I¡¯ll help you out of it.¡±


    His eyes suddenly glinted when he looked down at her silver broach that worked doubly as a clasp.


    ¡°Oh,¡± He reached for it. And Rose backed away a little frightened at his greedy gaze.


    ¡°And you call me a Prince! All that silver would catch a pretty price at the market in Volpi! I could eat like a King!¡± The boy accused. Rose quickly unpinned the clasp with a silver chain and tucked them into her tightest vest pocket right over her heart.


    ¡°Here now, you don¡¯t think I would steal that do you?¡± Hansel¡¯s eyes grew wide and his face insulted.


    ¡°I do not know if you would.¡± Rose would not look at him as she hung her cloaked hood the best she could on the tree.


    ¡°I promise that would be impossible!¡± He announced in that charming overzealous way boys tease. Again he had on that knowing smile that made Rose wary. It revealed a humor she did not understand. He snorted at her sudden coolness. ¡°Fine, I dare you to go up first then!¡±


    ¡°Why not you?¡± she exclaimed,


    ¡°I am better at it. I could help you if you get stuck.¡±


    ¡°Well I don¡¯t want you looking up my skirt!¡± She kicked up her petticoat a little to make a point.


    ¡°Oh right,¡± Why hadn¡¯t he thought of that? Had it really been that long since he was with a girl his own age? ¡°Well then what if we go at the same time?¡± He blushed.


    ¡°I am pretty sure we will get in each other¡¯s way.¡± Rose bit her lip.


    ¡°Well make up your mind! Are you just stalling because you are cowardly?¡± Hansel snapped.


    ¡°Fine, the same time then!¡± She tossed her hair back and took to the branches not fully starting until he was on the other side climbing also. This turned out to be much better for Hansel. She could not see his side and so he was unhindered in using his true abilities. In parts where no branches were he merely padded upwards. Rose made a wonderful start and gained with a better time than even he had guessed but just as Hansel broke the forest canopy she paused, arms burning and breath heavy.


    ¡°Is this not high enough?!¡± Rose shouted up to him for he had just passed her, though she had hoped to beat him.


    ¡°No, you have to be able to see above the wood!¡± He shouted down. She saw his hand stretch out on the other side. The dove was taking little side steps on his finger. Then it glided down to the branch above her.


    ¡°Reach out to where she perches.¡± Hansel encouraged as he feigned natural human movements he crawled back down and around to help her.


    The tree began to sway and she bit her lip to keep from screaming. After a while the movement became so much that she began to feel sick. Her heart was thudding nearly out of her chest and she somewhat stuttered as she continued to climb.


    ¡°I do not think I should go any higher. The branches will snap.¡± She tried to excuse herself.


    Hansel used his current tree hug to ease around to the foothold next to her.


    ¡°Look above you. There are some bear markings. I am certain if it can hold a bear it can hold you.¡± Hooking his arms over these two tell tale branches above he let his legs swing freely to show off. Then he swung up and sat on the branch, offering his hand.


    ¡°You really do take after your birds.¡± Rose accepted, talking was a good distraction that somehow made her focus more.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I like them so much.¡± Hansel looked off into the distance at a flying hawk.


    ¡°I like them too. Don¡¯t forget, I have a new golden goose.¡± Rose bragged.


    ¡°Thanks for reminding me which one I should eat.¡± Hansel jibed.


    ¡°You do and I¡¯ll¡­¡± she gasped before she could even threaten him he was swinging her in the air.


    ¡°You¡¯ll do what?!¡± He laughed wickedly and the fact that he was younger than her made it all the more frightening.


    ¡°Stop, Stop!¡± Rose¡¯s color was dropping as drastically as she imagined she might.


    ¡°You stop squealing and grab that branch across from you!¡± Hansel gritted pretending that the feather he held was actually heavy. Once she had steadied on top of it she shouted at him. ¡°How could you do such a thing?¡±


    ¡°Help you?  I said I would have too. Besides we made it.¡± He gestured about without shame.


    This last branch had allowed Rose to burst through the top foliage and look around at the expanse. ¡°It is very amazing.¡± Rose continued to hang on white knuckles; she realized for the first time that the woods were full of more shades of green than she had ever seen in her whole lifetime. And there was more beyond, she saw the river as it wound its way out of a mystic white grey that wrapped around the edge of the forest on all sides like layered fabric twisting and turning.


    ¡°You see Father Winter lays siege to the outside.¡± Hansel gestured with a sweep of his arm. ¡°He pounds upon the outer rim with snow that falls like needles!¡±


    Rose shook her head at his Tom Foolery. ¡°They are only clouds.¡±


    ¡°Maybe from here but beyond those clouds are snow covered passes. You are looking at a storm beyond human imagination. Those clouds are so high and full they cover even the tallest peak and once that river reaches past the woods it freezes.


    ¡°My mother has told me of mountains. She said they are like the well hills only much larger. So which way is the Frost?¡± Rose remembered what the bargain had been.


    ¡°He follows that in for a while then takes to hiding in the trees. There must be some sacred places left here or he would not be able to do that.¡± As Hansel thought aloud Rose watched his finger as it traced the riverbed to its first entry into the wood and beyond.


    ¡°I suspect he lives out there. I remember on my way traveling in there seemed to be a very strange looking cliff face that was glossy with icicles. I think it was that direction.¡±


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for this great storm we would probably be able to see it.¡± Rose squinted praying for the clouds to shift but they did nothing but their usual swirling.


    ¡°The river looks smaller than it should be don¡¯t you think?¡± Hansel changed the subject.


    ¡°Sadko says it has gone down drastically every year. If you look at the start of it you¡¯ll see it is still very large before it comes to the little ravine waterfall.¡± Rose shivered, the chill of the air getting to her.


    ¡°That is so,¡± Hansel mused then reached out and pinched her nose.


    ¡°Ouch that hurts!¡± Rose covered her face then was startled to see he was descending down the branches rather rapidly.


    ¡°There now you will remember this place also!¡± His amused shout began her panic.


    ¡°You helped me up! How am I to get down?!¡± Rose wailed.


    ¡°You will be alright!¡± He shouted back undeterred.


    ¡°No, come back and help me!¡± Rose was getting dizzy looking down at the surprising height they had climbed. Her vision blurred further as she witnessed Hansel spring off near the very bottom of the tree and land on the ground. He ran away into the woods.

 Home cooked meal

    Chapter 28 Home cooked meal


    ¡°Rose, remember you must not put salt in your Babushka¡¯s food; she doesn''t like it.¡±


    ¡°Yes mother.¡± The little hooded girl said obediently, ¡°Oh I almost forgot Father wanted you to meet him at the forge before the dinner bell.¡±


    ¡°Well it was good of you to bring that meat down for him anyway. I shall be back. Do try not to let anything burn.¡± Elena wiped sweat from her brow. Rose had been kind enough to kindle everything for her before the hunters even returned, it was beyond boiling. She would enjoy a fresh walk outside. No sooner had she left than little Red took off toward the garden. ¡°Babushka," She called out a little distance down the hill. ¡°Babushka, have you gone home yet?!¡±


    ¡°What is it child do not bray!¡± Old Grandmother waddled out.


    ¡°Please help me! Mother left to go find Father and I cannot reach your pirog!¡±


    ¡°Use the paddle child that is what it is for!¡± Grandmother grunted with pain as she made her way down the hill with her walking stick.


    ¡°Grandmother it only pushes further back!¡± Rose wailed, ¡°It is the special meat Father sets aside for you, the meal for your tender teeth.¡±


    ¡°You needn¡¯t tell the whole world.¡± Grandmother muttered irritably while the child skipped on ahead. The little girl giggled at her sourness.


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    As they entered the lodge kitchen Grandmother sniffed the air as her stomach growled.


    ¡°So this is where you have been all day huh? Avoiding your lessons with me for sweets?¡±


    ¡°Ugh, Mother wished it. I smell like the nasty burning meat in the oven.¡± The girl tilted her head and the hood fell practically down to her nose. She opened the oven door.


    ¡°I see nothing in there.¡± Grandmother bent over.


    ¡°Oh Babushka I know your eyes are bad can you at least lean in and smell to see if it is burning?¡± The little girl pushed her lip out.


    ¡°Give me the paddle.¡± Grandmother licked her lips and inhaled the smoke.


    ¡°Of course, Grandmother¡± The little hooded girl raised her red cloaked arms to send the paddle crashing at the witch¡¯s backside. In addition she ran up and kicked her rump with both feet. Grandmother¡¯s body went head first in the oven which had been carefully prepared so that nothing blocked its full entry. Her thighs stuck a moment the little girl broke the paddle over her knee to make two wooden stakes and speared them into Grandmother¡¯s calves. The prodding worked and the woman writhed all the way in.


    Gretel slammed the door, lashing a fancy silk ribbon around the latch handle to knot it shut. It would be a terrible sentimental loss, a necessary one. Billows of black smoke began to puff out of any and all small openings. Unholy cries and curses came from within.


    ¡°Scream all you want you toothless goat.¡± Gretel laughed, then she imitated Rose¡¯s voice while leaning her cheek against the trembling door. ¡°Dear Mother has gone off to the forge and Father is still gone in the woods with his hunters. Roast Well!¡±


    Grabbing a sack she ran from the kitchen giggling. Hearing her child¡¯s laughter Elena looked back from a great distance to see her child skipping away from the kitchen merrily; this was followed by an explosion with great billows of black smoke.

 Bear the consequence

    Chapter 29 Bear the consequence


    Ivan waited, it would not be long. The chill of the evening was approaching.  He had been tracking it for a month learning all the signs of its coming.  Sure enough the bear appeared, his white fur rippling as if it were rapids his snorting breath adding to the mist.


    Leaning back against the little ravine wall well hidden Ivan did not even breathe. His arms were at the ready to release the rope and add a push to his great log trap. The end of the trunk had been sharpened like a spear point to stab into the bear¡¯s heart while at the same time the logs weight would pin it against the opposite wall. This bear¡¯s footsteps were more agile than that of any other bear however, if he kept to his trail, as he was prone to do, soon he would meet the end of it.


    Snow fell from the creatures back as he pawed forward then after one long sniff he stood up on his hind legs and looked around warily. Ivan cursed in his mind for he still needed it to move further down stream. A child¡¯s sobs echoed through the air. The bear made a confused noise and then turned and ran beneath the waterfall. Ivan grunted louder than the bear. He turned climbing up to the top to investigate the noise. If a child was in the woods Baba Yaga would want it more than the bear.


    He followed the sounds and soon smelled blood. The tiny pieces of werewolf he had consumed had given him great senses. Even from a fair ways away he began to hear Rose as she talked to herself through choked sobs.


    ¡°You can do it. Just stop looking down.¡± There was a snap and she screamed. Ivan ran through the brush. He took out his axe and chopped any obstacles out of his way. Soon he was at the foot of the tree she was hanging from. Her protective hood was missing. The blood he had smelled was definitely her for she had scraped her knees on the side of the trunk that she clung too. She was shivering and had no foreseeable footholds directly below her and only one thin breaking branch that her hand held above her. Her face was damp and swollen from crying, knowing her only from the pain of her knees.


    ¡°Rose drop, I will catch you.¡± Ivan bellowed up to her after putting away his axe.


    Rose was so startled by his deep rumbling voice that she jumped a little. The little branch snapped and she did fall.  Ivan was true to his word, though the impact was a little rough. He gently set her down afterwards on the ground.


    ¡°Why have you come here?¡± Ivan looked at her sternly.


    ¡°I was looking for you. I wanted to see you catch the bear.¡± Rose lied even though she wanted to tell on the boy more than ever. Her Father would be angrier to hear she had wandered in with some stranger. He did not even trust Sadko.


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    ¡°Where is the hood your Grandmother made?¡± Ivan looked around as did Rose.


    ¡°He stole it! That little thief!¡± thought Rose, ¡°He¡¯s going to the market in Volpi!¡±


    She looked down at her swelling, blistered hands. ¡°I am sorry Father, I must have lost it. I thought it was hanging right here. I did not want it to catch on the branches I climbed.¡±


    ¡°It may have helped you.¡± Ivan carefully examined her knees and began to clean them with one of her mother¡¯s handkerchiefs. Rose winced but her Father was gentle. Too gentle, Rose imagined he thought of her as frail.


    ¡°Grandmother will want to bind these.¡± Ivan shook his head. ¡°Rose even if you are disobeying me you must wear the red hood. It has the power to protect you.¡±


    That proved it. Oh well, it also proved that he loved her.  They went home in silence and when they arrived they found the kitchen destroyed.


    Babushka and Mother were standing outside of it while the men who had returned from the hunt cleared it out. Babushka¡¯s clothes had holes in them though her large shall was intact. She was black from head to foot and her hair was giving off a terrible smell, still smoking in places. Elena was wringing her hands and when she saw Rose she scolded in the most fearsome wail Rose had ever heard from her.


    ¡°Rose, how could you? I told you that I needed you to stay and watch the kitchen whenever I step out! How could you just run off like that? That oven was far too hot and it nearly killed your Babushka!¡±


    Rose failed to see how this was her fault. She had not been back in time to help this was true, surely her Mother could have had one of the other girls assist and why had she let the oven get so hot anyway? She did not know how to respond.


    Ivan spoke instead. ¡°I found her up in a tree crying. I think she thought she would not be forgiven. She lost her Red Hood and scraped her knees trying to climb down.¡±


    Immediately Elena changed her tune, obviously the child had been frightened after seeing the explosion. She knelt down and hugged her. ¡°Well we are lucky your Grandmother wasn¡¯t hurt. She managed to make it out the side door.¡±


    ¡°I am sorry Grandmother for losing my Hood. We could not find it anywhere.¡± Rose hid behind her Father a little for the look on her Grandmother¡¯s face was a little frightening.


    ¡°I am more upset about this.¡± Grandmother pointed to Rose¡¯s knees. ¡°How could you do this to yourself? What if you scar?! What then?! Do you want to end up with knees as wretched and ugly as mine! To the garden with you! I shall put on a proper poultice!¡±


    ¡°Grandmother, you need some salve as well. I could make some¡­¡± Elena began.


    ¡°None of your white magic on me just take her on ahead. I am a tough old bird who has survived more than you can imagine.¡± Grandmother turned to Ivan.


    ¡°The villagers did lose most of their food for tonight. Son, why don¡¯t you go back into the woods and hunt for a larger breakfast for tomorrow?¡± This perked up the men who were working and they began to move a little faster. Elena picked up Rose who was limping and carried her to the garden. Grandmother pulled Ivan aside as they walked toward the wood and handed him a ribbon.


    ¡°Take a good long whiff of it. It is our enemy. Her appearance is as white as a drop of snow. She¡¯s sure to run into a grove of flowers. Kill her and take her heart.¡±

 A pinch of luck

    Chapter 30 A pinch of luck


    Gretel followed Hansel¡¯s real trail ignoring all his bread crumbs. He had certain signs built in to dissuade her. She was not adept at such things and the hunter would soon be following her haphazard path.  Relief swept over her when she met up with him.  They were always stronger together. The moon began to rise and the sign of the Gemini was bright.


    Hansel¡¯s own face was grim.  ¡°Take that cloak off.¡± He demanded, tale alert and aggressive. When he sat back down on his haunches he changed back into a boy.


    ¡°It¡¯s a protective cloak so what harm?¡± Gretel twirled, hugging to herself the fabric. ¡°Besides it is pretty. I like it.¡±


    ¡°It was not made for you. I am sure it has additional enchantments on it if another wears it for too long.¡± As he warned Gretel sighed and shrugged out of it, together they draped it over its new owner.


    She then knelt down for a closer look, ¡°When did you catch that?¡±


    ¡°Not long before you arrived.¡± Hansel trimmed off a bit of her hair using his nails then he sprinkled it over the beast.


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    ¡°Its snoring reminds me of our current resident. Really Hansel, the pets you collect.¡± Gretel rolled her eyes.


    ¡°I think it has a certain likeness.¡± Hansel smiled and pinched Gretel¡¯s nose.


    ¡°Ouch what was that for!¡± Gretel slapped his hand down; at least she could match his reflexes when aware.


    ¡°Never gets old.¡± He chuckled, ¡°I stole a sense of direction off of the girl. It is only a simple spell that she didn¡¯t even know she had.¡±


    ¡°Will it lead us to the lake?¡± Gretel asked anxiously, she was uncomfortable with her brother risking himself with the little apprentice but perhaps she did have her uses.


    ¡°No I could only get a general bearing on where that might be. This will certainly show the way to her house. And make her other enchantments easier to sniff out.¡± They connected hands and chanted, afterwards Gretel handed him a bag.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Hansel raised a brow.


    ¡°My little gift to you brother, I¡¯m sure you will find some use for it.¡± Gretel untied the animal while he opened the bag eagerly. He closed it again and tied it around his neck with a huge smile. ¡°Ah sis this is perfect! My thanks!¡± he hugged her.


    ¡°I had to give you something Hansel.¡± Gretel twisted the rope in her hands a little guiltily, ¡°I know you''re only doing this for me.¡±


    ¡°Together then,¡± Hansel said enthusiastically to Gretel holding her hand once more, ¡°One, two, and three!¡± Gretel shouted and they both kicked the animal¡¯s rump sending it screaming into the night.

 Hunt for a heart

    Chapter 31 Hunt for a Heart


    Ivan made good time through the woods. He was unsure if he was on the right course. So many trails began to bleed out into others and she continually changed forms. He was uncertain if he had picked up an old trail or a new for some things seemed fresh while others did not. He was not used to being befuddled. Baba Yaga had given him a clue as to the proper direction to go and so he went with his best instincts while still following her command. His instincts told him this was a trap.


    He heard a rustling and knelt to the ground and soon she came barreling out at him. She was wolf and snarling fiercely. He was low and she came fast so he caught her with his powerful arms just before she was able to clamp onto his face. He wrestled and threw her down. She must have been young for she didn¡¯t have the strength of the others of her kind he had killed.  Realizing she was out matched she made for the brush and ran herself right into a hole. A trap he had made a while ago for another game. Ivan thought this strange, certain she would have seen it there then again this little cub was brazen enough to challenge Baba Yaga so she must not have been too bright.


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    Before she had the chance to jump out he jumped in swinging his axe striking a powerful blow to her head. She squealed a terrible scream and then was silent. Her form turned back into that of a young girl collapsing to the ground. This reminded Ivan, he removed Rose¡¯s hood before blood oozed onto it. Kicking the girl over and taking out his silver dagger he expertly removed her heart. In his mind he knew this had been too easy.  However, Ivan had no will to think beyond the task he had just accomplished. He barricaded the meat so it would stay dry in the hole. Being werewolf no animals cunning enough to get to it would dare to touch it. The flesh was poisonous. Ivan covered the hole and made his way back to his mistress. Gretel¡¯s form changed once more from that of a girl¡¯s to that of boar.

 Family divided

    Chapter 32 Family divided


    ¡°He lies beyond!¡± Gretel scurried up and down, and down and up again.


    ¡°Patience, sister you always expect things to come easily. Of course she would have other barriers for us. This explains why we weren¡¯t able to find him sooner; we were naturally repelled by the plant.¡±


    In the number of a field before them was wolfsbane. They had followed the whole circle of it and could not find entry. The old lady had done her gardening well. It had been disappointing to discover since the mirage had faded well enough for them to see the lake. At least that fire had taken some of her power to overcome. If they were lucky she would sit back and try to gather her strength and so far she did not know that Hansel was here.


    ¡°Well that settles it you will have to bring your girl here to pick them.¡± Gretel whined briefly lying on her belly. She was exhausted after so many ups and downs.


    ¡°Are you kidding she will be under heavier guard than ever.¡± Hansel growled. ¡°Even if her magical skin has grown resistant to this poison weed, Rose would not be able to pick nearly enough by the time they arrived to collect her.¡±


    ¡°We can set them on fire as we did the witch.¡± Gretel suggested.


    ¡°Do not bother, I have already tried. The both of you must leave here.¡± From the canopy on the other side their brother dropped down. He talked to them mentally as he stalked up and down just as Gretel had paced before.


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    ¡°Are you alright? Has she hurt you?¡± Gretel stood immediately whining even more.


    ¡°Of course I am not alright! What keeps you out keeps me in and it would not matter if you managed it this far anyway!¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Hansel growled.


    ¡°Have you forgotten? I am hers to control. If I could get to the both of you at this moment I would slaughter because of her commands. I have already killed so many of us against my will. On this night she has not come to free me so until she recovers you are safe. Get out of these woods before¡­¡±


    ¡°How does she free you?¡± Gretel entreated.


    The big man wolf gritted his teeth and snarled as he gripped at his heart. ¡°I cannot tell you!¡±


    ¡°Well it is obvious she has not taken hold of your soul. We must find her other means of controlling you.¡± Hansel barked.


    ¡°If you go to her hata you might¡­¡± He cut off and howled suddenly as the moon ascended, ¡°I was wrong, she does not have to be present. She begins to release me! Run!¡± Wolfsbane began to pull rapidly into the ground. Their brother began to snap and snarl thirsting for their blood.


    ¡°That is dwarves work!¡± Gretel pawed at the ground.


    ¡°Come on! We must flee!¡± Hansel vehemently nipped at his sister. Gretel turned and began to run away with her brother; her thoughts of despair were worsened by the cries of their oncoming rival.


    ¡°It does not matter. She is working in league with fair folk, dwarves! Night after night we shall be forced to fight him. Just as from the first time we entered into her wood. We shall be forced to kill each other.¡± Her fangs ground together.


    Before the last flowers were buried a dove shot down like a white arrow attacking the eyes of its mate¡¯s murderer. It pecked and clawed and flew away barely escaping the reach that had crushed her other half.  This gave them enough time to escape. They managed to reach the village ahead of him.

 Magical Substance

    Chapter 33 Magical substance


    Rose sighed lying awake in bed. The moon was bright. She could not sleep. Her mother had forgotten to shut the shutters. Ivan had not returned home yet or he would have corrected this oversight. A shadow flitted across her wall that looked like a great pointy eared animal. She gasped and sat upright. When she looked to the window the little boy was making shadow puppets with his hand.


    ¡°Go away¡­¡± She whispered sharply and rolled over, throwing her covers over her head.


    ¡°You should not leave these open at night. It is dangerous. A stranger could get in.¡± He climbed right up onto the sill and sat. His accent was heavy once more.


    ¡°Rose did you call me?¡± Elena opened the door with a creak holding her embroidery in the other hand. Rose quickly rolled over. He was gone.


    ¡°No.¡± Rose said sourly, ¡°I just woke up because I was cold.¡±


    ¡°Darling, I did not close the shutters did I?¡± Elena closed and locked them as well, dropping down the curtain. There was a patter, Rose looked around the room. Elena thought she was trying not to look her in the eye.


    ¡°Yearling I know you are angry that I will not let you go tomorrow to Volpi with Sadko and the other girls. After all that has happened I can not just let things go unpunished. What would the other villagers think? Your Father would look weak to them and he has already set his foot down where Sadko is concerned. I already let you sneak up to see his geese don¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°Do not worry. I will not be going up there anymore!¡± Rose said loudly, for the child must have jumped back outside. The room was too bare with nothing to hide behind.


    ¡°Well if you are going to raise your voice to me perhaps you need more time to think about your actions. You cannot just run off and shirk your responsibilities. I am sorry you got injured however Rose nothing happened today that you did not bring upon yourself.¡± Elena went to kiss her forehead. Rose folded her arms and turned her head. ¡°Try to sleep, you are grumpy.¡± Elena managed to hide her smile until she shut the door.


    ¡°How did you get injured?¡± Hansel¡¯s head popped up on the other side of her bed causing Rose to jump.


    ¡°I thought you had left.¡± She whispered softer than even her last harsh whisper had been. She really did not want to speak to her mother again after that.


    ¡°I will have to go before your Father gets home. Your mother is easy to trick.¡± He jumped on her bed making her bounce.


    ¡°I got into trouble because of you. I scraped my knees falling down that tree and then the kitchen exploded and everyone blamed me!¡± Rose threw her pillow at him. He only caught it and fluffed it up behind him. ¡°Well I do not see why they blame you. You were not even there.¡±


    ¡°That is why they are mad! I want so very much to travel and I cannot even go to Volpi.¡± She was trying to stay angry at him, it was hard because he was being so lax and the intrigue of having another child sneak into her room was new.


    ¡°Every place out there is the same, filthy and selfish. Let them go, we will have more fun here, together. Or if you like we can make plans for our own travels.¡± He walked his fingers up her bed post with the finality of a man standing on a mountain top.


    ¡°Aye, travel with a thief. Where did you take my red hood?¡± she pulled up her knees and the covers a bit as she spoke to him.


    ¡°Your red hood?¡± his brows rumpled which made her angrier.


    ¡°I know you stole it.¡± Rose looked down at her hands, ¡°I just wish you would not lie about it.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? You were looking down at me as I ran away, did I have it then?¡± Hansel crossed his own arms as he responded.


    ¡°Well then, why make me climb the tree?¡±


    He opened his mouth to retort but Rose continued on, ¡°You never did show me exactly where Frost lived because of the clouds. I think you just wanted to trick me out of my hood.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m telling you I don¡¯t know what happened to it. Maybe you just hung it on a different tree and you don¡¯t remember.¡± Hansel lied for with his race it was an art form. He was surprised at how clever she was for her age.


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    ¡°Listen, it¡¯s just that my Babushka made that for me. If you tell me where it is I¡¯ll give you this, alright?¡±


    She reached over to the little stool by her bed where her silver clasp and chain lay. She held it out. He practically backed off the bed holding the pillow in front of him.


    ¡°Put that away I told you I do not want it!¡± He scowled. ¡°If you do not trust me I guess I will go.¡± She frowned, setting it back down on the stool. She had hoped to bait him into admitting something. He was a stubborn one. ¡°I guess you better had.¡± She turned her face away from him. He headed for the window having a new idea by the time he was on the sill.


    ¡°Stupid Frost probably stole your hood because he tricks people, probably heard us talking about him.¡± He muttered.


    ¡°Or maybe it was the Lueda Yedka.¡± Rose sighed annoyed and contemplated while reaching out for her pillow again. Were they just playing a game or not?


    ¡°Oops, Rose I did steal something. Maybe I better give it back or you will think I took your hood too.¡± Hansel crawled back in from outside.


    ¡°What?¡± Rose sat up once more.


    ¡°Well the kitchen was destroyed so I did not think anyone would miss it. I was going to try it out tonight to see if it worked.¡± He untied the bag around his neck and gave it to her.


    ¡°Worked on what?¡± She looked in the bag.


    He grabbed her hand and pulled her out of bed. ¡°Come, hurry before your Father returns.¡±


    ¡°Wait, let me put something on.¡± Rose tugged from his always too firm grip.


    Hansel smelled the air and looked at Rose¡¯s wrapped up knees while she slipped on shoes and wondered if his brother had been forced to cut out his own tongue for the poultice or if perhaps another wolf had died for it. Rose followed him out as quietly as she could. They made their way swiftly to the garden.


    ¡°Tonight when I listened to Sadko beneath the boards of his hata he reminded himself out loud to take salt on his trip just in case there was too much ice on the path. That is when I remembered that salt melts snow!¡± Hansel said this proudly.


    ¡°The Old Jack will run before we can hit him with this.¡± Rose pointed out.


    ¡°So we circle the garden with it. One big circle so he can¡¯t get in!¡± Hansel put his arms out wide.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know my mother hardly has anything left from the kitchen as it is.¡± Rose looked tentatively at the bag.


    ¡°It was under a bunch of rubble she will never even know we used it, Come on we have to hurry and try it.¡± Hansel pleaded.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Rose began pouring once they reached the outer rim of the garden.


    ¡°Not so fast you want it to last all the way around.¡± Hansel warned. He kept a good foot away from where she was standing. Rose found it considerate of him not to crowd her.


    ¡°Quick let¡¯s go watch them from up on Sadko¡¯s hill like I did last time.¡± Rose took his hand and together they wound a careful path just in case anyone was awake and might see them.


    Sure enough as the moon got high the Old Jack and his army of ears approached. They ran at the garden like a stampeding herd. The instant the rabbit¡¯s front paws touched he reared up as if he were burned. He circled once, then twice blowing a chilly breath onto the salt. His nose down low touched it and he began to rub it with his paws then his two back feet. The other rabbits were all poised behind him, their own noses twitching rapidly with concern. Large chunks of white splattered off the Old Jack and finally he gave up signaling the others to follow he went back to the field and just as before turned and looked up to where Rose was hiding. Half of his face was melted this time. To Hansel¡¯s better than normal sight it appeared the little thing tried to wink. The dark piece of bark that was one eye fell off. Then he was gone.


    Hansel was trying to figure out this odd exchange when he was ambushed by a hug from Rose.


    ¡°It worked! It worked!¡± She whispered excitedly, ¡°My Grandmother¡¯s garden is safe!¡±


    ¡°I hope you have a large supply of salt.¡± Hansel pushed her off with that mortified expression boys get when touched by a girl. Then when he saw her shivering a little from being outside he recanted.


    ¡°Well, not now we don¡¯t. It¡¯s all under rubble.¡± Rose said glumly. Hansel took off Sadko¡¯s shirt and draped her with it.


    ¡°I can sneak into Sadko¡¯s cart tomorrow when he rides off to Volpi.¡± Rose said suddenly her eyes bright,


    ¡°What about getting in trouble again?¡± Hansel smiled crookedly.


    ¡°Once I am gone and back, there is nothing they can do. Besides I really, really want to go and once we are there Sadko will help me buy salt.¡± Rose was still looking to him as if he were the one to get permission from.


    Hansel did not want her to go. There would be no arrivals at Volpi he knew. The witch never let anyone out of these woods. She could not risk them talking to outsiders and if they somehow managed to escape, the blizzard on the outside would probably kill them. After all weren¡¯t all these mortals ignoring the signs? Father Winter was not pleased with them either. Still any distraction to the witch would be welcome. Her precious granddaughter missing for a day or two would be a big distraction. It was only a matter of time before the old crone would figure out he was using her anyway.


    ¡°Wait I know,¡± He recanted his previous thoughts. ¡°Sadko already has his cart packed with their things; I¡¯ll rearrange them tonight so you can hide in between and I can cover you quickly.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I said.¡± Rose crossed her arms and hugged the shirt tighter to her.


    ¡°Well you did not explain it very well. You should also pretend to be sick in the morning so they do not expect you to be there waving goodbye.¡±


    ¡°Not sick, Mother will smother me and not leave. Then Father would go fetch Babushka and she would fly out of the woods to heal me.¡±


    ¡°That would cause too much attention.¡± Hansel grinned a little at her expression. Obviously that was an uncomfortable experience she had already lived through.


    ¡°I will simply have to throw a bigger tantrum and refuse to go. I¡¯ll bundle myself real tight in my bed and be sour to Mother, then after she leaves I will leave the bundle behind.¡± Rose threw the shirt back over Hansel after this little display of wit.


    ¡°Take this back. I need to go back and rest. Father will be home soon. I don¡¯t want him to find this shirt.¡±


    ¡°I really am a bad influence.¡± Hansel snickered to himself as he waved goodbye.

 Bound Away

    Chapter 34 Bound Away


    Rose hid behind the hata as her parents closed the door. Elena brushed off Ivan¡¯s cloak while she spoke. ¡°I really think you should make her go Ivan. It is disrespectful of her not to be there.¡±


    ¡°If she is in her room at least I know where she is and this way she won¡¯t have to listen to Hilda and Nina gloat. Mother will come over soon after checking on her garden.¡±


    Ivan hooked his arm around his wife and she sighed contentedly under his wing.


    ¡°Thank goodness you found her red hooded cape. I was certain it was lost for good. Where is it?¡±


    ¡°I folded it and put it on the edge of her bed this morning.¡± Ivan¡¯s nose crinkled, ¡°Perhaps you should wash it once more for it still smells strongly of animal.¡± Their voices grew distant as they made their way down to Hilda and Nina¡¯s. Rose continued on only after grabbing two cakes that were cooling on the sill and placing them in her basket. Her cape fluttered as she took a quick path to Sadko¡¯s barn. Her mother¡¯s washing it would have to wait. She was taking it with her on her travels.


    Rose was surprised to see a very sad expression on the boy¡¯s face when she entered. His dove¡¯s head was tucked under her wing. He continued to pet it. He coed, and spoke in the language Rose had been taught by her mother.


    ¡°Perk up Little Love, we¡¯ll be getting some of our own back today. You did well with your revenge. You deserve a rest.¡±


    Rose wanted to ask what he was talking about then thought better of it. Perhaps she could learn more about him if he thought she did not understand.


    ¡°I like your accent when you talk like that.¡± She said shyly.


    Hansel was not startled, he had felt her approach and wondered if she perceived him as weak for showing such affections. He would not have dared to show such tenderness if his sister were still around this morning. Gretel had decided to take her chances digging underground.


    ¡°What is the matter with her?¡± this time Rose made no attempts to touch the bird having learned he would not tolerate it in the past.


    ¡°She is ill from getting poison on her beak. She did not swallow it though. As long as she rests she will be fine.¡± His face was placid. Rose could see his eyes were unsure.


    Hansel picked up the upside down nest Rose had brought earlier and placed the dove in it. He rested it in a more stable corner than it had been in before. The dove barely rustled and then stopped stirring.


    ¡°So I see you found your valuable hood.¡± He rubbed the feathers off of his hands.


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    ¡°Did you make a place for me in Sadko¡¯s cart?¡± Rose changed the subject before they began to fight. In her opinion, his name was not fully cleared because she still did not know who he was. He could have hidden her clothes thinking it would be a fun game later.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Hansel yawned, the sun was really getting to him this morning. Still he climbed up the side of the wheel to direct her where to go. ¡°You can fit in between Hilda¡¯s trunk and Sadko¡¯s dulcimer case.¡±


    Rose climbed onto the back and swung her basket over.


    ¡°You cannot be serious about taking that?¡± Hansel pointed to her basket.


    ¡°It holds everything I need and nothing I don¡¯t, of course I am going to take it.¡± Rose shrugged.


    ¡°Well you didn¡¯t tell me that last night. I made no room for it.¡± Hansel gestured to where she was to squeeze and Rose did so.


    ¡°Look it''s fine just put that blanket over me.¡± Rose balanced the basket on her stomach. It had seemed to grow smaller than when he had first seen it. He was unaware that she had begun to learn how to charm things already. If he could get her to lift a few spells later on that would put things in their favor for certain.


    ¡°Won¡¯t you come too?¡± Rose asked a little nervously.


    ¡°Eventually you will be discovered if they are far enough down the road they won¡¯t turn around.¡± Hansel¡¯s tone held a warning. ¡°If they were to find a stranger who knows what those fat sows might do.¡±


    ¡°Sadko is no cow he would offer to take care of you.¡± Rose resented his remark only on behalf of one.


    ¡°I have to stay and take care of my bird and yours.¡± He suddenly held up her golden gosling which always made her happy; to the rest of the world it was just ugly and grey. She cupped it in her hands and snuggled with it.


    Hansel¡¯s face jerked to the entry as he pushed her all the way down with his hand. ¡°They are coming duck!¡± The blanket went over her and where he went she could only guess for she soon heard the voices of her Mother and Sadko.


    ¡°Rose wanted to see you off Sadko. She was not feeling well.¡± Elena said gently.


    ¡°I am sure your Mother will take good care of her Ivan.¡± Sadko said coolly while Ivan only grunted. After coming back from the woods it wasn¡¯t clear Sadko¡¯s recollection yet he did remember a sort of falling out.


    ¡°Grandmother would have come too. She was tired after the accident.¡± Rose could just picture her Mother wringing her hands with that tone.


    ¡°An accident she blamed Rose for, I hear.¡± Sadko adjusted the reins on the horses as he spoke.


    ¡°It was Rose¡¯s fault I saw it.¡± Ivan witnessed and this testimony stung Rose.


    ¡°Why do you let that woman run your lives my friends? She twists the both of you any way she chooses.¡± Sadko sighed looking up at the barn ceiling.


    ¡°You are just irritable because you have started drinking.¡± Elena scolded.


    ¡°Because Hilda and Nina want him to take the path from the house they own into the woods instead of going by the river.¡± Ivan clapped Sadko on the back.


    ¡°Perhaps you are right. My head still stings from that accident. Villagers all seem to treat me differently as if they are ashamed or afraid of me. That is why I have taken up drinking.¡± Sadko admitted.


    ¡°Well you are going on a three day trip with Hilda and Nina. You have a right to drink. I hear their voices get less shrill with each drop.¡± Ivan laughed his big deep laugh.


    ¡°I better be careful or I¡¯ll wind up kissing one of them and they both have hairy lips.¡± Sadko scratched the hair under his hat. They all laughed, Elena joined her husband and gave Sadko a farewell hug.


    ¡°Oh Elena, I am sorry. Tell Rose goodbye for me won¡¯t you friends?¡± Sadko creaked into the driver¡¯s seat.


    ¡°Certainly brother,¡± Ivan directed Sadko as he backed out the horses.


    ¡°And remember¡­¡± Elena added as a final parting.


    ¡°Yes I know, remember our little river.¡± Sadko smiled and away he went. Or more correctly away they went, even the gosling, which had not been part of Rose¡¯s plan at all.

 Thundering Wrath

    Chapter 35 Thundering wrath


    Babushka did show up to make her farewells to Hilda and Nina with all the rest while passing out goodies to the children. Her only interaction with Sadko was a tap on his cart and an exclamation of its poor upkeep. Once they were gone she was glad to take the rest of her flock up to her garden. Emilyan, the youngest of the boys, beat her to the top and ran in. Suddenly the bottom of her froze. She could not move forward. She stepped backwards. Her skin crawled with a terrible sensation, as a chubby child¡¯s face poked out from behind one of the orchard trees far before her. It was the face of Emilyan, ¡°Babushka, are you coming?¡±


    ¡°Give me a hand you lazy boy or perhaps you think yourself above old women?!¡± Babushka snapped. So what if the boy was only seven.


    Emilyan looked wounded by her words and obediently went to her side. He let her hold his shoulders while he began to struggle upward even as he moved. Grandmother did not. After just two steps she screamed with disgust.


    ¡°Ugh something bars my way!¡± she wailed. Her face was becoming more ugly and creased. Emilyan was determined to be of assistance and moved behind her to try and push the rest of the way. The agony of this approach was still too much on her. She swung her walking stick at him poking his gut ¡°Stop you maggot away with you!¡± When she turned upon him his innocent eyes saw not the face of Babushka but the pointy nosed demon Baba Yaga. It was brief, it was horrible and he ran away crying. Baba Yaga dismissed this. Someone was keeping her from her garden. That someone was going to pay.


    Inside the garden her set spells had already taken hold and all the other children slept soundly even though outside an ogress was snorting, cursing as she pounded her staff against a wall of air. She was circling the garden as sparks flew from her feet. Once the salt ring glowed and repelled her out even further.


    Hansel grinned wide as he watched this upside down. From a distance it appeared she was doing a little dance. He traveled further and further, listening to the mindless prattle of the girls above and the soft breathing of one stow away. He dropped down from the bottom of Sadko¡¯s cart letting it pass over him and then he rolled. Gretel¡¯s scent was near. Soon her head emerged from a tree cavity.


    ¡°Any luck finding a dwarf entry?¡± He surveyed as she began shaking the dirt off of her.


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    ¡°This one is old and does his work well. I can¡¯t seem to find anything remotely leading in the direction of the lake.¡± Gretel sniffed to clear her nose and also her anxiety.


    ¡°Well, I have her pre-occupied. Let''s find her hata and take a look inside. At the very least we might find something of value to steal.¡± Hansel offered.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try to find it from below.¡± Gretel¡¯s ear caught the sulking misbehavings far off. She paused just before ducking in ¡°Brother those Grandmother¡¯s knees I hear knocking?¡±


    ¡°She really does strain herself over that garden.¡± Hansel laughed with his sister.


    Using ancient dark words the hag backed farther and farther away until Grandmother was her face again. Her glassy eyes still filled with the mist of another world as she continued to chant, moving her hips quite vulgarly and then slamming her staff into the ground, her knees soon following. The ground thundered and like the tail of a cat a thin cloud spiraled in from the far outer reaches of the sky beyond the woods it circled right above the garden and poured down water.


    Baba Yaga sniffed around muttering under her breath with the ground wet scents were stronger. She crawled upon it while opening her hands, palms up, curling and uncurling her fingers like claws. Her hair straggled down like wet yarn. Within Sadko¡¯s barn the dove¡¯s nest began to shake. It circled up and around the bird into a little cage. This cage rolled right out of the barn and into Baba Yaga¡¯s clutches with its captive cooing loudly.


    Elena had found Emilyan crying amongst some shoots and had sent him home with his mother.  She had just decided to come see what had frightened him watching a fair amount of water come washing down the hill as it melted away everything to mud. This sudden storm made her feel a little queasy and she was distraught that Grandmother had been in so much pain she had frightened a child.


    ¡°Babushka are you alright?¡± she saw a hunched over figure on the ground.


    ¡°No!¡± Grandmother turned on her grunting as she stood. The old woman¡¯s shall was flapping like a flag in the wind. ¡°How dare you! You kept salt in the village!¡±


    Elena was quick to retort feeling slighted immediately. ¡°Why do you carry on so Mother? I have never put any in your food. Besides, for the moment the kitchen is destroyed there is not any.¡±


    ¡°I suppose you could not let it simply waste. I suppose it was a gift from Sadko. Too much of your kindness cost me! No more!¡± The witch took a step forward into a puddle. It was saturated with salt and burned her ankle. She hissed as the water hissed and Elena dropped back in horror.


    For a moment Elena let her sight long ignored take hold. There before her stood a doppelganger of the worst kind. It was then that she remembered that witches detested salt. Not the good witches, who were the first to draw up this magic of purity, the evil ones. The ones in league with darkness, they shared their bodies with demons. This vision before her was twisted and terrible. Elena turned and ran as fast as she could. She turned back to see that Babushka was not following her. Relief hit when she saw she was going to make it into the woods. She ran into them. She ran into Ivan.

 Past Mistakes

    Chapter 36 Past Mistakes


    Rose was forced to listen to Hilda and Nina¡¯s whining and bragging for quite a distance.


    ¡°Well my husband will probably be a rich merchant.¡± Nina speculated, fluttering her lashes at Sadko.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll have a pointy nose and knobby knees like Frost.¡± Hilda teased.


    ¡°Speaking of Frost if you ladies are chilly there is a blanket back there for you.¡± Sadko said over his shoulder. That did it. Both of them pounced on the blanket each meaning to hog it all. They shrieked when discovering Rose beneath it.


    ¡°Little sneak! Sadko! Sadko Rose has been hiding here the whole time!¡± Hilda bellowed.


    ¡°Rose you could have been hurt! And your parents are bound to be worried! Thanks to you we shall have to turn back!¡± Nina jutted out her lip.


    ¡°Girls be calm,¡± Sadko laughed, ¡°I¡¯m not about to make you late for your bridegrooms or they might call off the weddings.¡± Sadko shrugged, knowing if it were him, he would try to find any excuse. ¡°Little Red, why don¡¯t you come up here next to me and explain what you are doing.¡± He stopped the cart a moment so everyone could get resettled.


    ¡°She should not get to go, she isn¡¯t old enough!¡± Nina protested.


    ¡°And her parents will be furious with you Sadko!¡± Hilda added.


    ¡°Perhaps so,¡± Sadko shrugged, ¡°Yet we are nearly out of the woods.  I can always send word to her parents once we reach town.¡± Rose hugged him and he gestured for her to sit down.


    ¡°Well I must say every day I did not see you. Your hair has grown more red than brown. Why are you here?¡± He clicked and the horses began to move.


    ¡°I was playing with my gosling and heard Father coming so I hid in the cart.¡± Rose did not look at him while she spoke. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°So you didn¡¯t just want to get out and see the world did you?¡± He eyed her with a raised brow. He lowered his voice to a whisper. ¡°I¡¯m sure you had no help from the little specter in my barn that keeps my geese well fed.¡±


    Rose sealed her lips together quickly. Sadko took another swig and grunted. ¡°Orphans are welcome in my home whenever they choose to stop hiding. I have a vague memory of care taking whilst I was ill.¡± He twisted the cork back into the bottle and winked at her as she gave him a grateful smile. Once again she had been rewarded by her faith in his gentleman¡¯s worth. She wanted to speak thanks, her ears started to burn and she noticed the two girls behind them were trying to listen in.


    ¡°Sadko, do you think we could buy salt while we are in town for Mother?¡± Rose clicked her swinging heels together.


    Sadko laughed an unabated inebriated laugh, ¡°Oh I see you''re making up for that little disaster!¡±


    ¡°Little!¡± Hilda exclaimed standing up again.


    Nina snorted, ¡°The rest of us could have burned on the other side of the lodge!¡± Nina stood up too on the same side and suddenly there was a great snap as the wheel came off and everything tipped. They weren¡¯t moving that fast. The girls still tumbled out.


    ¡°Well that¡¯s done it.¡± Sadko said sternly, calming the horses. ¡°Is everyone alright?¡±


    Besides the obvious complaints no one was greatly injured.


    ¡°The axle is broken,¡± Rose had hopped down to look at the bottom of the cart.


    ¡°It¡¯s all that stopping and starting we did for you!¡± Nina pointed at the accused.


    ¡°We are going to be late!¡± wailed Hilda.


    ¡°No, we will still have a good time. I packed spare parts. If I work hard I can have us at least to the edge of the wood by nightfall.¡± Sadko tied up the horses and rolled up his sleeves. ¡°Who is going to help me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m faint.¡± Nina sat.


    ¡°I hurt my ankle.¡± Hilda lifted her foot though before she had no complaint;


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have been drinking today.¡± Sadko shook his head.


    ¡°I¡¯ll help,¡± Rose climbed up into the tilted cart and began handing him small items to unload.


    ¡°My thanks,¡± Sadko adjusted his hat, cheeks still rosy.


    ¡°Sadko, why is it you never drank before?¡± Rose pushed hard to move the trunk.


    ¡°Well long ago, I drank while I was in Volpi and I made a mistake. I made a woman think I loved her. I was really thinking about someone else at the time you see. When my mind cleared I was forced to break her heart and leave. Since then I did not drink but I have come to realize that it was not entirely drinking that caused my folly.¡± He hefted the big trunk out, dropping it on his own foot.


    ¡°Maybe it was that you are very silly when you drink.¡± Rose giggled as he hopped about.

 Betrayal

    Chapter 37 Betrayal


    The door kicked in and bound and gagged with the very handkerchiefs she had once embroidered for her husband Elena. Tears of fear and confusion marred her face. Though her legs had scratches and her face was bruised she had never truly struggled except internally. Was this the man she had loved all these years? Or perhaps he was newly possessed. Surely he could not harm her. They had a child together, a home.


    The stale stench of brew filled the air. Miller cleared off his large grinding stone which he had been using as a table for lunch. ¡°What have we here, the lady of lust? Will she not be missed?¡± His questions showed that he knew his company and was not alarmed by this odd behavior.


    Grandmother came in slowly, dragging a foot behind her. The arthritis in her knees gives her great pain since being forced to let in the cool rain. ¡°The men lust with or without Elena before them. The spring mead still does its job well enough and I am tired of her incompetence with the raising of the child. More than once she has nearly been damaged.¡±


    ¡°The child is not in her room, Mother.¡± Ivan shook Elena who had begun to struggle more once the conversation had turned to Rose. ¡°Just before you summoned me I went to check on her, she was gone.¡±


    ¡°You see!¡± Baba Yaga smashed the bird¡¯s balled cage against the wall so it broke and she had the dove pinned amidst the various broken bits. ¡°This is what troubles me. The girl has a will that continues to grow strong. Today it serves us for it allows us to do other things in her absence. Yet each day she risks herself with possible injury that would make her useless to me!¡±


    ¡°I smell fine silk upon you.¡± The Dwarf scurried up, eyes greedy, ¡°A familiar scent.¡±


    ¡°Yes the ribbon, I thought it looked familiar.¡± Baba Yaga¡¯s eyes narrowed, pulling out the tiniest bit of a burnt string. She held it up close to one eye.


    ¡°Mistress, perhaps it is time for you to exchange the Red Rose for the White. She is of better resilience, is already trained to fight and for courts and her beauty is also quite rare.¡± Miller held out his hand and Baba Yaga dropped the ribbon into it. Quickly the little fellow pocketed it.


    ¡°I do not know how my own spirit in her body would contend against that of an underworld beast. The battle would have an uncertain outcome.¡± She gestured and Ivan turned Elena around. Baba Yaga removed her white hood draping the garment over her own arm.


    ¡°Humans on the other hand are silly creatures who rarely tap into their abilities. Often they are unaware or even afraid of their power.¡± She stroked the ancient robe of white passed down from deities long ago. The owner still lived and the possession of its power would go to her daughter after she died. Baba Yaga was not about to let that transfer begin, yet.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    ¡°This one shall not be for eating then.¡± The dwarf frowned. Ivan threw Elena down on the great stone half circle as the Miller readied straps to hold down the maiden. The leather already had stains of blood upon it.


    Miller began taking out tools next to Elena¡¯s face. Great spikes, curved knives and a file as well as a brush made of wire. To Baba Yaga he handed three tiny nails. To Ivan a hammer, Elena watched as they nailed the helpless dove to the wall in front of her by its wings. Baba Yaga stabbed the last nail into Elena¡¯s heel, twisting it while she screamed through her gag. After withdrawing it the witch began to chant over the dove holding the little iron covered in blood.


    As Baba Yaga did this, terrible pains swept through Elena as a smelly breath whispered in her face. ¡°I can spare you of this torture to come. I could even free you. Your daughter seems something of value. Give her to me and you live.¡± It was of course Miller who spoke, picking up and examining his glinting file. They looked at each other through the corners of their eyes. His was a smug look, his enjoyment of pain clear while her face was full of the opposite expression.


    Through the terrible draining sensations and spasms of muscle Elena found her strength. She may not be able to protect Rose any longer and this thought alone was enough to frighten her out of her wits. Yet she would not willingly hand her over to this monster not even for freedom from this tormenting hell. To the little man¡¯s disappointment she shook her head.


    He himself was startled when Ivan picked him up by the throat. ¡°He means to betray you Mother!¡± Ivan held the gagging man till his feet dangled.


    ¡°Of course, it is his curse. He betrayed his kind by opening up portals to the nether worlds so now he must betray every master he serves. He betrayed Lady Spring by giving her secrets to the Kotschey. He then betrayed the Kotschey to me. When he will betray me is uncertain but I know because I hold things of value to him it will not be today.¡±


    She was enjoying her work slowly pressing the nail into the rapidly beating heart of the bird. Elena began to scream and scream. Baba Yaga watched with pleasure as the dove¡¯s breathing as well as Elena¡¯s ceased and started as one. Ivan dropped the little man at a gesture.


    ¡°Still continue to watch him as he works and report back to me. Have her ready by nightfall.¡± Baba Yaga began to head for the door and Miller fell before her feet, eager to reassure her.


    ¡°Mistress, you will not stay and watch yourself? You usually enjoy such things.¡±


    ¡°My part is done, and I must call off my dog or my dinner will be spoiled.¡± Miller looked at Ivan confused.


    ¡°She is hungry and the fat little bridesmaids have ripened.¡± Ivan shrugged.


    ¡°Ah,¡± The dwarf arose brushing off his knees, ¡°Then I don¡¯t want any. Their spirits are poor and they are sour creatures; at least their flesh will be enjoyable.¡±


    Baba Yaga nodded in agreement while she looked to Elena with beady eyes. ¡°And for you my pet I have a special treat.¡± She called back over her shoulder before slamming the door. ¡°Have her ready by nightfall!¡±

 Wild Encounters

    Chapter 38 Wild Encounters


    ¡°Well that is the last of it.¡± Sadko gasped and sweated, placing the trunk back inside the fixed cart. Rose did not look much better; she had neglected to take off her hooded cloak and was dirty from laying on the ground holding tools for Sadko under the cart. He had fumbled much with anything tiny.


    ¡°Good, it is beginning to get quite cold out here. The sun is going down.¡± Nina stood and shook Hilda awake. Hilda gave a great big yawn followed by a snort.


    ¡°I think it grows colder because we are close to the snow.¡± Rose wiped her brow only succeeding on smudging it with more dirt.


    ¡°We are nearly out of the woods; I doubt if snow has not reached this part that there is much this year.¡± Sadko hiccupped.


    ¡°Have you not stopped drinking? You smell.¡± Hilda plugged her nose while Sadko helped her into the cart.


    ¡°It keeps me in high spirits.¡± Sadko tipped his hat once she and Nina sat down.


    ¡°Rose you may ride up front so you don¡¯t get dirt on us. There is no need to disappoint our husbands with bad clothing.¡± Nina wrapped the blanket around her.


    ¡°I think they will be disappointed enough...¡± Rose said under her breath. As Sadko lifted her up to her place he smiled until seeing a shadow dart through the trees.


    He looked at the bottle in his seat.


    ¡°Did you hear that?¡± Rose turned to the direction he had seen the shadow and he cursed inwardly.


    ¡°I did think, I thought I saw something.¡± He stumbled around as the horses grew very nervous. They danced a little in place snorting, making little noises.  He stopped to calm one of them, its eyes growing wide as it shook its head.


    ¡°Can¡¯t we just go?¡± Hilda whined. As Nina buried her head a little more in the blanket, this time Rose agreed fully.


    Sadko began to climb warily back into the driver''s side when it leapt out of the bushes and grabbed his legs. The horses reared and took off as Rose was about to hand him the reins. She saw the strange beast covered in green plants behind him. That had made it blend in almost completely with the forest. Instead Sadko grabbed hold of the seat. He slid through the grasp of great bronze colored paws. His pants tore and his boot came off. His legs nearly swung into the wheels and were smashed. The drinking had made him limber and he managed to swing himself the other way. When he was up on the seat Sadko chanced to look back. The creature had disappeared. That is until the whole cart swayed as Hilda and Nina screamed.


    Rose saw it on her side. It had just grabbed Nina¡¯s blanket and had slowed down to tear it in two while it ran on two feet like a man. Its muzzle was wrinkled from the huge grin it held filled with sharp teeth framing a lolling tongue. It panted as the horses panted while they ran only he gained speed with every stride switching to all fours.


    ¡°We are too heavy! Drop everything, everything out of the cart!¡± Rose shouted handing the reins back to Sadko she climbed back throwing things at the creature


    She expected an argument but the girls were luckily too scared. When it came down to life or possessions there was nothing worth keeping. Hilda even helped her pitch over her trunk which the Wolf man easily dodged and avoided, slowing only little. He seemed to be enjoying the game, daring them to hit him. Once he knocked a vase back at them with the flat of his palm and they all ducked as it smashed. When they got up he was right next to the cart. Rose was not deterred; had a good shot at his head and a heavy little box in hand. As she threw it, it spiraled, but he had only to turn and open wide, catching it quickly in his teeth. The box of jewelry broke into pieces chains and gems tinkling their dyeing songs flying hither about. And it laughed a deep and guttural laugh from its very belly.


    Afterwards it gave its own heaving howl and leapt onto the side of the cart. Rose and the other girls moved to one side and the cart leaned rolling only on two wheels. It did not pitch. Amazingly it continued on and the girls cowered low, holding to the side. The monster pushed itself upward and in with its arms and the whole cart slammed down again.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Rose saw her basket still strapped in the front seat. She remembered she had put one of her Father¡¯s hunting knives inside of it. Taking her chances while the beast swung one leg over she dove to grab it. The Wolf was in and he made to hit her, something strange happened, every time he went in to strike his swings missed. His claws hit the wood to the right of her and then to the left and when she turned around the silver about her neck glinted and he understood.


    She thought his backing away was the fear of the knife. A simple thing made of iron. It did not matter; she was not his target. It was the other girls he was after and the man. Sadko had not brought his silver arrows, this time.


    ¡°Hilda, you must take the reins!¡± Sadko shouted and Hilda did so, the horses feeling immediately the change. The cart bounced in every direction hitting every large root on the way. Sadko fell clumsily to the back on his way to protect Rose. The Wolf reached down and grabbed him by the shirt. Rose stabbed her foe in the arm; the creature only looked down and snorted. She had no fear she continued to stab again and again quickly however Rose soon saw that once the knife was removed the wound was sealed.


    Again the deep chuckle at her helplessness, Rose tucked in the knife and backed away. He looked back down to his prey; this ridiculously clumsy man who had eluded him for so long. That was when a bottle struck the side of his face. Rose swung with all her might once again not relenting.  The Wolf made a move to take it from her but Sadko did it first, he smashed the bottle in half and gave a roar driving and twisting the broken clay into the monster''s stomach. Together they went over the back. Rose cried out seeing them roll over twice on the ground as Nina held her back. They watched the beast pull free the serrated bottle top from his gut as Sadko struggled to stand. He smashed it over the merchant¡¯s head and he collapsed. ¡°No, we have to stop!¡± Rose cried, if anything Hilda urged the horses faster. ¡°He sacrifices himself so we can live!¡± Nina shouted, ¡°Rose we must escape!¡±


    Rose elbowed Nina off of her. Sadko was out of sight. She shivered, wanting to dive over the side herself. Suddenly she was being pelted by cold wetness that made her look up. Flakes began to fall around them. This quickly turned into a heavy flurry and then the cart hit a large unexpected drift and slightly pitched. Hilda let go of the reins and this was good for the horses tore completely free of the little carriage dragging chunks of wood with them.


    The Wolf¡¯s own healing wounds pushed out the glass from his stomach.  He kicked the unconscious man over for his trouble. Soon he was on the road again. Knowing the direction they would go he changed his course for a different approach, of course it wasn¡¯t long before he came upon them only a short distance ahead. They had made it to the other side of the white wall.


    Through a haze of blurred snow he saw them. They had yet to see him as if through a glass he watched them beginning to move on their little wreck looking around bewildered. The littlest one grabbed her basket. The Wolf¡¯s foot stepped down on some snow making a slight crunch and she looked over in his direction. That gave him pause, he was not that close. Her senses seemed keener than the others, bordering on the magical. In fact, now that he thought about it her mind did as well. Still her abilities were obviously green. Her lashes were heavy with flakes and she could not see anything. Eventually she dismissed the noise. ¡°We must keep moving before it comes.¡± He heard her say. This amused him; a moment ago she had wanted them to stop for their guide.


    A twisting sensation came into his heart. He was not allowed very much further. However, how much further was something he had always wished to test, this was an opportunity. His prey was not far and here of all times the rules might be allowed to bend slightly. They began to scramble away, slipping around terribly and making an obvious path through the drifts. He attempted his approach through the downpour of ice. When a heavy thud of snow was heard and before him, mirroring his image was The Frost. The Wolf stood up on his hind legs growling low The Frost also stood only continuing to mirror right down to the tilt of his head. This head gave a shivered ripple in response to the growling. As the Wolf paced un-certain; so too mimicked thin birch limbs, there was no hint of following this was done at the exact same time. Finally he decided not to risk it. In the woods there might be competition, outside in his own element and time the Frost had already won.


    ¡°Fine they are yours for now, eventually they will be driven back here by your precious cold and then I will have them.¡± He licked his teeth after speaking.


    A twisting of the needle, over time he had learned to recognize the differences. This one was a summoning. His mistress called him. In his pain the Wolf had reflexively gripped his heart. The Frost put its cyclical fingers up to the same area of chest, doubtfully there was a heart there. It lifted its big dew drop head as its body trembled giving off a soft tinkling noise. The Wolf realized this was the equivalent of laughing at him. As he glared at this mocking spectacle Frost began waving its icicled hands as if shoeing away a pest. Beaten and barking in disgust at this obnoxious behavior the Wolf went down on all fours and ran off. His nemesis rival did likewise in the opposite direction.

 A pretty captive

    Chapter 39 A pretty captive


    Gretel came out of yet another hole and found Hansel cross-legged and irritable before her. ¡°You took your sweet time. If you were lost you should have just followed the sense spell here.¡±


    ¡°I did, brother. I was using it to navigate the little man¡¯s caves. I¡¯m beginning to get a sense of his style and architecture. I think it is important that we have several options of escape.¡± She pulled herself out and shook as she did so her hair grew long on her head and disappeared everywhere else save for where her fur pelts covered.


    ¡°Digging into a hole does not sound like escape to me.¡± Hansel looked up at the sky.


    ¡°Funny, earlier when you spoke to the girl you bragged about it being a usual method. Why do you keep doing that?¡± She pulled her brother¡¯s chin down. ¡°I know it would be easier to spot wards with Little Love. She is not going to come, she needs her rest.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that. You took so long that we should probably leave the woods. It is getting dark. If the witch isn¡¯t heading back then our brother will be out in force soon and who knows where the hunter is at this moment.


    ¡°It is a sad day when a Kerwolf cannot roam the night.¡± Gretel shook her head while acting dramatically like a poet.


    ¡°That makes no sense you idiot.¡± Hansel gave her a little shove and she giggled. Suddenly she covered her nose. ¡°Ugh! What is that perfume smell? It burns my nose.¡±


    ¡°I know I¡¯ve been tracing its pattern while you have been below. It seems to lead into her bath house shed.¡± Hansel grazed his finger over the path of fumes he could clearly smell. ¡°Does the old batty have some kind of bitter shampoo?¡± he turned to his sister.


    ¡°Not that I recall. She just smells like melting liquorice.¡± Gretel made a face. She gave a little sniff. ¡°Hmmm, that¡¯s a high quality brand of perfume sold in Volpi. Only the richest of the rich own it. It begins to peel your skin after a while though. Then the merchant starts to sell you creams.¡±


    ¡°Ah me, it appears she¡¯s captured another light snack. I can hear a heart beating frantically within.¡± Hansel adjusted his ears a little more. ¡°And she keeps muttering.¡±


    ¡°Oh yes I can hear her too.¡± Gretel nodded, ¡°Something about offering to give up all her wares when the old woman comes back.¡±


    ¡°Funny the dwarf isn¡¯t around, he would be all over that offer.¡± Hansel¡¯s hackles were up. It was true the witch did not need to worry about visitors but this captive still seemed too well exposed.


    That was when Little Love appeared. The dove lofted through the trees silently and drifted over to one of the trees along the path.


    ¡°Look, she feels better!¡± Hansel smiled. With relief he leapt over the fence surrounding Baba Yaga¡¯s house. Gretel¡¯s sight revealed in a flash that the fence was all glowing bones and silver interlocked and grinning. She wondered if it had just given off some kind of warning. This made for a more timid jump.


    ¡°I can see most of those trees are warded and so is the path.¡± She warned placing a hand on her brother¡¯s shoulder when he was about to just walk through them. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve had longer to study this place since waiting for you. If you look, Love landed on the one that wasn¡¯t charmed.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m not worried about her.¡± Gretel rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Since she¡¯s here we can disarm the house of all its trappings and get inside faster than if we had to do it by ourselves.¡± Hansel looked up at all the different hanging homemade wards. To a casual eye this was just a string of drying substances mostly edible to entice. Yet order and placement were very important. If the wrong thing were moved, barely touched magic alarms would be sounded and terrible things could happen.


    ¡°Is it just me or did we enter the wrong side?¡± Hansel felt the appearance of the structure was all wrong when concerning the path.


    ¡°The house turned its back to us when we hopped the fence. It¡¯s alive, look how it¡¯s staring.¡± Gretel felt eerie as the light hitting the window structures seemed to create the shadow of moving irises in them. She began to get a bad feeling, worse than any other witches hovel.


    ¡°Brother I¡¯m tired after all that backtracking and searching below. Do you know how many traps and enchantments I had to avoid?¡± Gretel combed through her hair with her fingers. Then her stomach growled.


    ¡°Oh, I get it, make me do all the boring work. While you help yourself to the witches catch. You are forgetting, she might be soulless, maybe even another witch.¡±


    ¡°You know you¡¯ll just be distracted while you work knowing she is there.¡± Gretel kissed his forehead as he growled. Hansel crossed his arms with a sour expression.


    ¡°I have to lead her away and talk to her. She might have information that might be useful.¡± Gretel skipped ahead carefully to avoid strange areas of the path. Hansel didn¡¯t like this. He hid just as Gretel did around Rose for neither of them ever would risk the both of them being caught.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    Gretel made several magic countering motions with her hands before opening the door and immediately the woman inside sprang up and out into the sun. Initially he thought she was lovely which Hansel felt was a pity. Why were all the pretty ones so foolish? After a closer look he found her a bit outlandish and over done at second glance. She was wearing fine silks and her hair had an old fashioned noble¡¯s style that may have come back into fashion. The make-up she wore signified she was not of noble birth. He thought she might be a paid companion for hire and perhaps at one time she was but all the wares she carried in a giant pack made her out as a merchant.


    ¡°I¡¯ll pay you! I¡¯ll pay you anything you want! Oh please! Please just let me go!¡± The woman shouted as the door opened. She seemed startled that only a little girl was before her. ¡°Are you that wretched thug¡¯s child? Where is he?! Where is the old mother?!¡±


    ¡°If he is my Father shouldn¡¯t you watch your tongue?¡± Gretel pointed out.


    The lady blushed or maybe the shadow she wore always looked that way. At any rate she was embarrassed. ¡°Listen dearest.¡± She changed her tone to a forced sweetness.


    ¡°I need to go. I have to find Sadko of Volhov. I have a message for him.¡±


    ¡°I live with Sadko.¡± Gretel clapped in that disarming little girl way. ¡°The old woman told me to wait here after finding me in the woods. She said we would eat cookies!¡±


    ¡°Oh she doesn¡¯t have any cookies dear trust me!¡± The female merchant rolled her eyes and pushed her with trembling hands towards the path. ¡°I think you should take me home to your Father?¡± She nearly posed the last statement as a question and it was painfully clear that though she had other things on her mind she wanted nothing but to escape.


    ¡°Sadko isn¡¯t my Father, he just takes care of me. I¡¯m an orphan, this way¡­¡± She grabbed the woman¡¯s hand and led her to a different side path often taken by Ivan. Once the silver fence sprang up she swung her arms behind her back.


    ¡°Will you open the gate for me? It¡¯s heavy.¡± At Gretel¡¯s request it was done showing that the woman had no magical ability for the bones of the fence didn¡¯t show or react. Soon afterwards the woman grabbed her hand and began to run with her. At the same time Hansel looked up to Love who had landed on one of the wards to begin work. ¡°Let¡¯s finish quickly so we can follow.¡± He entreated Love, who must have still been lethargic because she only nodded.


    ¡°Are you sure this is the way to the village? I am certain this is the way that Ivan fellow brought me.¡± The merchant woman sighed; looking up at the trees like it was their fault.


    ¡°Oh yes,¡± said Gretel slyly, ¡°You must have almost been there before he took you to Grandmother¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°And Sadko has he wed?¡± The woman bit her lip nervously.


    ¡°No, he lives alone, alone with me. I am like his daughter. My parents died.¡± Gretel needed to come up with better lies in the future and she made a note of it.


    ¡°Yes he was always kind like that.¡± The woman said softly.


    ¡°What is your name? Perhaps he has mentioned you.¡± Gretel chimed, intrigued by this silly encounter.


    ¡°Oh I doubt that, it was so long ago.¡± Again the woman blushed through her blush. ¡°I must admit I was eager when somebody wanted to send word to Volhov unlike others who are afraid of the region. We haven¡¯t heard a word in years and so the bridegrooms called off their engagements. Truthfully they both have fallen in love with different girls of the town. I thought it would be heartbreaking if the other girls did arrive to find they had been jilted. So I volunteered despite warnings that no one else has returned. When I explained this to an old woman in the woods she had her son grab me and throw me in that shed.¡±


    Gretel acted shocked in reality it all made sense. The witch didn¡¯t want this woman spoiling her meals. Her captured brother was surely rounding up those sows as a second course this very moment which is why she had no fear of him being out and about in the woods. And the witch was probably making sure there was no more salt left in the village after being weakened by the circle. As for Ivan, no doubt he was seeking out his run away child again or berating his half wit wife.


    ¡°Well there it is, home.¡± The village was still a long way off. Gretel had purposely taken the lady to an excellent view point to give her hope. That way she could still stay close in case her brother got into trouble. ¡°Can we sit and rest? You ran with me so fast.¡± She added for good measure and the woman wrung her hands a bit and finally agreed.


    ¡°I am sorry child you rest. I simply cannot. I have been locked in that shed all morning. My I must be a mess.¡± She began opening her pack and pulling out items. She smoothed out her outfit changing the frayed ribbon around her waist for a new one. Afterwards she also fixed her hair and her make-up with a variety of combs and pins. Gretel did not quite agree with her style. She did admire nearly everything that was pulled out of the bag. ¡°Oh pretty,¡± she said this time meaning her words.


    ¡°You know you aren¡¯t so bad looking. I bet you would be pretty all cleaned up.¡± The woman smiled. ¡°I suppose Sadko wouldn¡¯t know much about raising a girl. You require a woman¡¯s touch.¡±


    Gretel felt a little affronted just by her tone. She did like the items before her and continued to paw at them a little.


    ¡°Well you did rescue me. What do you say to having whatever you like as a reward?¡± The woman winked.


    ¡°Oh I couldn¡¯t decide,¡± Gretel¡¯s eyes were wide and modest, inside she was cheering.


    ¡°Well here I¡¯ll choose for you. You have such pretty pale skin and lovely long hair. How about this comb? It¡¯s the biggest in my collection and made of a very valuable pearl. She handed it to Gretel who felt like the comb was glowing in her hand. It was a tall comb that sparkled. Pearl was representative of the moon and so it was very fitting. She frowned suddenly, it was impractical. She would be spotted a mile away.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t know how to wear something like this. And I have nothing to wear it with.¡±  She sighed.


    ¡°Oh let me show you. You could save it for a special occasion, A special someone you want to impress.¡± Taking up another brush the woman gently stroked her hair and Gretel closed her eyes and imagined Ivashko¡¯s eyes when he saw her looking radiant, new in celebration of his rescue. Gretel handed her the comb and in turn the woman handed her a mirror to use when she was finished.


    ¡°I do have someone. Someone I traveled here to find. It was difficult through the snow. Many of my family were lost.¡± Gretel didn¡¯t know why, tears were brimming, in her eyes. Why suddenly did she feel like confiding in a silk-covered woman? Then she thought silk? The woman traveled here in silk? Something fell next to her in the grass. It was the pearl comb but only part of it. Holes were in the top. It was a casing. She quickly turned the mirror up to see not the merchant but Baba Yaga¡¯s vile face behind her and the glint of a silver comb being wielded like a dagger above her head. ¡°This shall replace your ribbon!¡±


    Baba Yaga drove it down deep into the back of her skull. There was nothing except pain until the darkness.

 Nibble, nibble

    Chapter 40 Nibble, Nibble


    ¡°That did not do it.¡± Hansel opened the front door only to find another door and then yet another only with the handle on the opposite side. He slammed them all and the house spun around while he clutched to the frame.


    ¡°I know you are a living lock but do you have to be such a keyhole!¡± When it finally stopped he walked straight up to the roof as easily as if the walls were floor. He blew the straw symbols he had rearranged back into place. He walked halfway back down to the other wall where Love was perched on a wind chime of simple cinnamon sticks as opposed to all the dried fruit and herbs he had been careful to avoid.


    ¡°Are you sure Love? This doesn¡¯t look right. Maybe you are still tired, delirious even¡± Hansel tried to pet her. She hopped away a little. Making the chimes clatter. The window pane next to them melted away a little as if it were sugar just hit with hot water.


    ¡°Sorry I doubted you.¡± Hansel grinned. He peered inside to see all the usual witch¡¯s objects. ¡°Well let¡¯s see a fever skull, more fertility charms, and three pairs of white gloves. Why can¡¯t they ever keep the good stuff in the open, Love?¡± Hansel expected at least a flap. Love was usually partial to his humor. She only stared blankly then coed.


    ¡°No Love I¡¯m not going to try to squeeze my head into that small of an opening. For all I know one of her house charms is ready to cut off my head.¡± Hansel hoped she was being sarcastic or he really was worried.


    ¡°I am going to try to make it larger. Well here goes then...¡± He blew the wind chimes and nothing happened. He tried again confused only to see a white glove hover down from the inside ceiling above. It threw a knife down it had been holding it had been holding in wait and slammed the shutter in his face.


    ¡°Ugh this is infuriating! We have meddled around here too much. I say we just go!¡± Hansel hopped down to the deck. ¡°Where is Sister? I hate when she plays with them.¡±


    Love suddenly began to coo loudly flying around a particular brick beneath another window frame near the very bottom of the house.


    ¡°Alright, fine the last thing we try.¡± Hansel grumbled. He eyed the brick carefully and then realized it wasn''t a brick at all. It was gingerbread. Love sounded that it was safe on his shoulder. Perhaps only put there to blend in well. Once he pulled it free he suddenly found himself starving. He tried to focus on the little cavity revealed beneath it. He just could not stop his mouth from watering.Stolen story; please report.


    ¡°I think I¡¯m getting too used to a baked diet.¡± He sniffed, and couldn¡¯t control himself. It was only moments before it passed his teeth. The whole house began to shudder and shake, it then shot up in the air fast with a spin of force that flung Hansel off to the path below. Hansel got up feeling out of sorts. Dimensions were strange and it did not help that in reality they were really changing.


    With one mighty swoop the great pillars holding up the house moved like stilts. Its order of business was to make Hansel its new foundation. The possessed beams trampled at him and with much dashing and avoidance Hansel turned to make for the fence. It was right behind him looming, the laughing skulls laced with silver matched the impossible height of the standing building. He felt ill as he turned, hopping under and through giant pegs for the trees, determined branches went to pierce, whip or snare him until they changed direction to hold off the house from turning them into splintering wood beneath its strange three pronged feet.


    ¡°Love which way?!¡± Hansel began to stumble following his flapping bird into the open. His stomach cramped and his legs stiffened the moment he could no longer move he was kicked in his side and then smashed beneath a giant chicken¡¯s foot. The hata didn¡¯t completely crush him which he knew wasn¡¯t good. It was only slowly crushing him and he watched helplessly as his dove flew over to the shoulder of Baba Yaga emerging from the woods dragging the body of his sister by her hair. She paused to twirl in her disguise pulling down her fake face with a swipe of her hand she cackled thoroughly amused, ¡°Did you enjoy your little nibble my little mouse?¡±


    She meowed like a cat and cackled even more. Ivan emerged from the wood.


    ¡°Mistress did you summon me.¡± He bowed.


    ¡°No, just teasing our prey.¡± She waved a flippant hand. ¡°No more breadcrumb paths or silly children to chase. No more jaded heroes who might still have something to prove. No more protective mothers to smile and make nice too. After tonight I can continue my work without annoyance and you my boy will be locked in a cellar to age like fine wine so I can enjoy you properly!¡±


    He let his eyes flicker and his canines grow. ¡°Our family will not stop. The more you kill the more will come. Gluttony will become a bone you cannot swallow.¡± Hansel managed to use the breath he had gathered from his little wheezes to change his voice to sound deep and menacing. He would have interrupted her loathsome gloating even if he had nothing to say.


    Baba Yaga looked unperturbed. ¡°Your brother went away with me of his own accord. No one knows he needs to be rescued. You are only here due to your sister¡¯s meddling and I¡¯m sure the rest of your clan is unaware. Due to the sensitive nature of his banishment by your pack leaders you probably didn¡¯t even tell them you were seeking him out. I have more than enough ability to take down scouts until I¡¯ve drained this valley dry of its power and by then not any being will be able to face me!¡±


    ¡°Ugly enough to face as it is!¡± Hansel spat speaking in the ancient tongue. His spit hit her face like sizzling acid and melted the mask of her disguise.


    Ivan approached from the other side and kicked him. This display only improved Baba Yaga¡¯s mood as she crouched down turning over Gretel¡¯s body. ¡°If you weren¡¯t such a dish I would cut out your tongue. I think it will be a better torture for you to watch the torment of your sister.¡±

 Beautiful River

    Chapter Beautiful River


    Sadko awoke with a start to the soft sounds of his dulcimer. Someone was tuning it. Otherwise there was nothing more than the soft humming of bugs and breezes. Before him like a fiendish monster was his glowing river. Why? Why was it always this place he was lead back to start from? He began to hate it. A sentimental sight it was no longer to him. This place marked all that he had lost and would never gain. Almost immediately he regretted those thoughts for he began to think of Rose and all of their adventures along these paths.


    ¡°Rose?!¡± he cried out wincing as he pulled his scraped, filthy self up. They had all been traveling together beyond that everything was a blur. He felt hungover and in pain. And behind him was a dark shadow playing his dulcimer within a little circling of trees. ¡°Who is there? Show yourself?¡±


    There was a little grunt that sounded put off. Then there was a hum that matched the key of the string that had last been strummed, beyond that no answer.


    ¡°Sir, you are a man aren¡¯t you? Yes I can see by the outline of your large shape that you must be.¡± Sadko continued to hold his gracious tone. ¡°Not that you are wide in that manner mind you. Although in this darkness it is hard to tell won¡¯t you come out into the moonlight?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± the shadow responded with a deep voice. It was much darker than the sound of the lighter humming earlier. It made Sadko tremble. He calmed himself. ¡°Such a bass tone my friend. Our chief Ivan has such a voice do you know him?¡±


    A grunt or perhaps a sneer, ¡°He has no appreciation of music. It is what my people live for.¡± There was no mistaking the condemning tone from the stranger. It was at least a good sign that they were perhaps still near the village.


    ¡°Oh you are quite wrong. He loves music makes me play it every night and the other men drink, laugh and...¡± Sadko¡¯s voice died in his throat for he saw that the person¡¯s eyes were beginning to glow in the shadows.


    ¡°And lust.¡± It began playing a very beautiful song, flowing and original and lamenting. Sadko had never heard anything so enchanting.


    ¡°Have you touched my instrument with magic sir? Are you one of the Fair Folk?¡± Sadko dared to take a step forward.


    ¡°Fair I am definitely not. Fair lies further off down the river friend.¡± There was a glint of something, a tooth maybe?


    ¡°Do you speak of my party? Have you seen them? I had with me some very important cargo.¡± Sadko was uncertain how much to tell this stranger, nor how much he already knew.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ¡°You have no memory of earlier I take it?¡± the voice inquired yet seemed certain of what the answer would be.


    ¡°No,¡± Sadko looked down at the state of himself and concluded that he had been involved in some kind of scuffle.


    ¡°There is someone awaiting you up river. If you wait too long she will come for you.¡±


    ¡°Is it someone I know?¡± Sadko guessed and the figure nodded its massive head.


    ¡°Will you relinquish my instrument to me?¡± Sadko put out his hand and soon the dulcimer was placed in it. As he pulled it forward connected to it was a massive clawed hand covered in fur. He gasped and stumbled backward landing on his duff. He clenched his eyes shut and moaned for he was already quite bruised when he opened his eyes nothing, not even a shadow was there.


    ¡°I am growing weary of the madness of this wood.¡± He muttered to himself. As soon as he could manage movement he set out on his goal to get at least a little up the river. He was taking a chance, if Rose was there she might be injured or worse. Yet it was not Rose he found waiting for him. It was Elena. The lovely image of her was startling to see in the soft night¡¯s haze. She danced wet in the water kicking up spray with her bare feet.


    ¡°Elena what are you doing? That water must be freezing!¡± Sadko made his way toward her. Still aware the beastly stranger might be near he felt his belt for his hunting knife to protect her of course all items of defense had been removed. This had happened the last time too. After he found himself home in bed relieved of fever he no longer had his silver arrows or a bow.


    Elena seemed not to hear him continuing to dance. She was lost in some other memory of thought. Nevertheless he could not let her freeze to death. Putting down his dulcimer he removed his tattered coat and splashed into the water next to her. ¡°Elena here you must put this on and come out of there at once! There are strange creatures about!¡±


    He only managed to get her a little on shore before she grabbed his arms and pulled him downward to sit on a log with her. She placed his hand upon his neck and traced the curve of his chin with her finger. He found himself looking deeply in her eyes.


    ¡°Elena, I love you. I think you have known.... that I have loved you for a long time. So you must know how much it costs me to tell you this.¡± Sadko cleared his throat. ¡°I have lost Rose and am in a state of madness. This moment does not even seem real. I do not know where she is or if she has come to harm¡­¡±


    Elena shushed him, putting a finger to his mouth. Soon the finger was removed and replaced by her lips. Sadko was startled by this pleasant response. Given the circumstances it did not feel right. He could not deny that this is what he had wanted for so long. He gave in to her kiss before she roughly pushed him back down into the water. He was surprised by both forms of physical contact.


    ¡°Elena?¡± He placed a hand back and it sunk too far down with his arm so he scooted a little back to the shore shivering. She sat down on top of his stomach pushing him down further in the water kissing him again. This time she bit as she kissed and cut him. When she pulled away he saw great slits opening on the sides of her neck as she hissed. She opened her bloody mouth above him. He gave out a brief cry at the sight of all her teeth sharp as arrow points. His cry turned into a gargle as she dived, dragging Sadko down to the river bed below.


    ¡°Sorry friend.¡± The Wolf picked up the dulcimer on the shore and went on his way

 Realm of Winter

    Chapter 42 Realm of winter


    ¡°Did you see that?¡± Rose moved into a defensive stance that her Father had taught her.


    ¡°Is it the bear?¡± Nina chattered. All around them was nothing, silence.


    ¡°No, it felt different. It was in the trees.¡± Rose breathed a soft chilled breath as she whispered.


    ¡°Bears climb trees.¡± Nina whispered as they huddled together tighter and listened.


    ¡°That wasn¡¯t a bear.¡± Rose would have rolled her eyes if she wasn¡¯t so busy looking at every little motion around them.


    ¡°Give me that!¡± Hilda knocked Rose¡¯s basket down trying to grab the knife from Rose¡¯s hand. She succeeded only because Rose did not want to hurt her. So far they didn''t weren¡¯t injured and she meant for it to stay that way. Hilda was not so cautious; she waved the blade in Rose¡¯s face once acquiring it.¡°You are only a frightened child! I will not have you leading us about scaring yourself silly!¡±


    ¡°Perhaps you would like to shout louder so that our pursuers can hear us..¡± Nina hugged into her bigger sister for warmth. Behind Nina a big dewdrop head peaked out and white birch branches wrapped around both of them. Rose gasped and dropped the basket which had all of the sticks but one. ¡°Let go of them!¡± She screamed while swinging with it and whacking Nina¡¯s arm. The creature had vanished.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± Nina cried waking up and Hilda was once again waving her knife in Rose¡¯s face.


    ¡°What did you do that for?!¡± She found it hard to stomp after Rose for her feet were numb.  Rose could see the Frost on her back weighing her down into a big drift of snow and then vanishing.


    Rose helped her out using her cape despite her clamor.


    ¡°We must keep moving over tree roots and over stone to keep above the snow! Can¡¯t you see the Frost cradling you?¡± she warned them. Rose had never seen The Frost before yet somehow she knew the title she had just spoken was true. She began to throw sticks at them so that they would run after her. This kind of encouragement actually worked for awhile.  The two older girls were forced to admit they felt warmer running.


    Eventually the sun rose which meant Rose had managed to keep them alive through the coldest hours of the night. Hilda and Nina showed no signs of being grateful. Rose had to collect sticks all over again. Of course she was also certain they weren¡¯t even going in the right direction with clouds blocking the skies and no one suggesting they turn back to face a monster all they could do was move forward.


    Daylight did not comfort Rose in the slightest. She continued to see Frost walking among them, not hiding in the slightest. When she tried pointing him out to the other girls they saw nothing. In a way it was fascinating for he was such a fantastic looking creature, both agile and skeletal. The thick ice shards that formed the shimmering armor of his chest never looked the same twice and there was a certain soft spiky fuzzy quality about his legs that appeared to form into soft rabbit like feet. He could extend and shrink his birch arms to whatever length he required. Sometimes he even had icicle spikes on the top of his dew drop head. The Jack waved right in front of their faces while poking their noses making them turn red.


    Nina was the first to show a little interest, finally, in building a snow shelter. Her blanket was thoroughly soaked though stiff. She was beginning to turn blue. During what Rose thought was midday they managed to get a fire going. They huddled amongst some collapsed tree¡¯s blocking them from the storm. They first dried out the blanket and then took turns wearing it while their clothes thawed. Rose felt that this was the time to reveal she had food. They were working better as a team. Once she did this the girls demanded to see what else was in her basket. Considering their immediate change of attitude Rose did not reveal her cakes. She decided she would ration them.


    Rose was always hesitant to stop because of their guest staying constant even at a distance with the presence of fire. She caught sight of his eerie bluish white reflections, while he patiently nestled in the tree branches about them. Rose wondered if she could talk to him. Find some way to convince him that the Ferryman wouldn¡¯t want them anyhow. Then she noticed Nina eyeing her warily and realized that to the others she was only staring at nothing. Oh well, since he did not seem to be leaving a fortress against him was the next best option. Soon the storm would move over and out would go to the fire. Choosing an ideal location didn¡¯t take her long. She went for the widest tree with broad low hanging rims that would support the roof. She dug down and used her knife.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Rose¡¯s cloak was keeping her relatively dry and her boots were a good quality given to her from her father. The exercise made her cheeks rosy as she dug down and in. She felt the smaller the space the better for they would be closer together for warmth. She did make an extra hole for air or possibly a second exit in case things collapsed. And collapse is what they all did when it was finished. Finally safe and almost dry with food in their belly they slept through the second night.


    Rose dreamed of making snares and eating rabbit stew. She dreamed of going back to the woods and gathering supplies they had thrown out of the cart. She dreamed of her mother weeping and a boy with white hair. She woke up to a soft crackling and forgot what she had dreamed, for there was a tiny Frost crawling into her cave of snow poking holes in the roof with his icicle fingers. ¡°Get out!¡± she popped up screaming and Hilda and Nina bumped heads as they tumbled about causing everything to crash down on them.


    It wasn¡¯t bad because as Rose had planned the tree branches took the brunt of what could have come down. Unfortunately Hilda and Nina became even worse as companions after that. The next time they made her build the morning fire herself and rifled through her basket without asking. Somehow they did not find the cakes. They did pull out recognizable tools for Rose to make a small snare. Rose gladly parted company to do so. When she returned after setting the trap they were angry she had not brought back anything.


    ¡°I¡¯ll return to it in a little while.¡± Rose argued, ¡°How can you expect me to catch something right away in this weather?¡±


    ¡°Well we can¡¯t just wait around, we have to get to our husbands!¡± Nina whined.


    ¡°We do not know where we are moving too or if there will be food there! We have to collect supplies!¡± Rose retorted.


    ¡°You are not your Father headman¡¯s daughter!¡± Hilda sneered. ¡°Go back and check that trap and if it¡¯s empty we are taking it with us!¡± Rose sighed grabbing her basket moodily she went on her way before they began to pelt her with snow. Not far from camp there was a thud as right in front of her dropped the Frost. She was frightened, it had approached teasingly before and always the others for being foolishly damp or standing in the wind. It seemed to have a message specifically for her. She wondered if she had angered him that morning. It put one icicled finger up to the place where a human¡¯s lips would be as if to hush her if she were about to scream again. She thought he was mocking her this morning. He pointed back to the camp and cupped the same hand to the side of his head as if to listen.


    Rose was unsure it seemed he wanted her to go back and listen to what Hilda and Nina were saying. He approached her at what seemed a slow motion yet was suddenly right before her face. She shivered; he pointed at her and then drew a long line across his neck with his icicle. His watery head dismembered itself and floated in the air. Rose turned and ran back to the camp fear driving her feet. Was the Frost threatening to kill her? Why wouldn¡¯t he? She was the only one that could see him keeping up good ideas for warmth to repel. She slowed trying to comprehend its meanings when she heard Hilda and Nina and she hid behind a tree.


    ¡°I do not know if I can do this even as a courtesy. Poor little thing is going mad.¡± Nina whimpered.


    ¡°Look it must be done. I refuse to go back to the wood, to that village. We must get to Volpi and wed, How will we explain her once we get there? They won¡¯t believe what attacked us. They will make us take her back.¡± Hilda shook her head firmly.


    ¡°It would be nice to have those boots and that cloak. How will we start the fires and build shelters?¡± Nina pondered while rubbing her arms.


    ¡°We have both seen her do it we can manage it easily enough ourselves.¡± Hilda lowered her voice to be even darker. ¡°And then there is the matter of meat. We simply don¡¯t know how much further there is to go. If we don¡¯t find any food¡­¡±


    ¡°You are not suggesting.¡± Gasped Nina,


    ¡°I am, once we run out of food. I saw her hiding two cakes, she is saving them. Whether she eats them or shares them it does not matter once they are gone there will be nothing and it could be weeks until we get anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Yes, our village had no knowledge of this storm outside. All of Volpi must be buried in snow too. We may end up traveling very far indeed. For that extra clothing she has on her I think I shall agree. It is the only way we two will survive.¡±


    Rose crept away as silently as she could. To think that all this time she had been protecting them from the Frost. They planned to murder her for her supplies and for her meat! She was going home. All she needed she carried. The loss of that knife was only a little tragic compared to what might be done with it. Wolves were bearable compared to these two.

 Silver cage

    Chapter 43 Silver Cage


    Hansel awoke to a terrible burning sensation like fire all around him. He yelped and took off his vest. His body moving with an understanding his mind did not yet comprehend. The vest went onto the floor of his silver cage and as soon as he stood on top of it he was no longer on fire. Still the pressure of an unbearable pain hovered all around him.


    ¡°Well, I would have taken that off if not for all your tricks!¡± Snapped the dwarf, he had left the boy his furry attire. Not that Hansel really carried much else or needed it. Every item he owned had a nasty magical curse attached to it so that if anything was stolen the thief would regret it. A dwarf could easily disarm such things and often had too because of their nature to take but here it turned out to be too much trouble versus the actual value and often the item was ruined in the end.


    ¡°Where am I?¡± Hansel always asked despite the foolishness of the question. Some people were foolish enough to answer.


    ¡°Well like she said, she is ripening you. Kerwolves aren¡¯t near as good as when they are aged and since you¡¯ve been made so young you¡¯ll be the most valuable meal on the market.¡± He put on a scowl. ¡°Course she¡¯s greedy and won''t sell you to anyone. At least the silver will speed up the process so I won¡¯t be drooling after you for long.¡±


    ¡°You think this is the first time I have been captured?¡± Hansel shivered uncontrollably still from the previous contact of the metal even while his voice was firm.


    ¡°Couple of albino¡¯s like you? Doubtful, it¡¯s a big world with a lot of players.  I must say my mistress she¡¯s really good at keeping her pets not only alive but obedient. And the games she plays with them¡­¡± The dwarf heated a hot poker over some coals. ¡°Do you ever feel like killing yourself? The trick is to know it could always be worse for you. Imagine having no soul, no will even. Well you¡¯ve seen the results.¡± The dwarf smiled a knowing smile at Hansel who began to bark in rage.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    ¡°The compliment is that she realized after your struggles let¡¯s say that you might be a bit more difficult to keep in check, unlike your brother. I mean think of the wild enriching flavor if we were to let you roam like him. You won¡¯t be as delicious without your will intact. So she¡¯s given me charge over the recipes fine tuning, with a little taste testing by the both of us now and then.¡± The dwarf licked his lips as he turned around with the poker.


    During the dwarves'' disclosure Hansel took in his surroundings as much as he could. He looked for anything he could focus on. He vaguely remembered being dragged to this cellar underground so there was a dwarf entry somewhere that he knew. This must be the little Miller he had heard so much talk about in town. Was he really a pawn to the witch or the witch a pawn for him? With the fair folk you never knew until it was too late.


    ¡°You are thinking that I can set you free. Course I would want you to offer me something valuable and at the moment I don¡¯t think you have anything worthwhile even yourself for every part of you is owned by her except your will.¡± He raised a brow as if inquiring if that would be a fair trade.


    ¡°I have a tough one, it can endure. I think I¡¯ll keep it.¡± Hansel gritted deciding he would withstand the poker over the cage.


    ¡°Excellent.¡± The dwarf moved in. It occurred to the dwarf as he worked that in the end this boy might be just like his clothing. That he had a certain sort of ugly style. Hansel retained consciousness through it all. He faked passing out more than once until his watcher was finally satisfied. When he exited the dwarf disappointed him by going up the stairs. Due to the nature of Hansel¡¯s wounds and the silver counteracting his physical powers he knew he wasn¡¯t going to be healed by the time the Dwarf came back. So as Wolves do he made plans for a long stay, one that wasn¡¯t going to be pleasant for his tormentors.

 Snow Maiden

    Chapter 44 Snow maiden


    Rose stumbled on certain yet uncertain of her direction. She had not quite reached the cart although many other signs of their prior passage had passed her. She was tired. With only one decent night of rest and the least amount of food she had ever received in three days she began to succumb to the numbness around her. She found herself forgetting silly things and wanting to curl up into a ball to keep warm rather than the necessary exercise. She had run all the previous night again to get as much distance between her and the two would be murderers. Nor did she relent in moving on in the day thinking only of the warmness of her Grandmother¡¯s hearth. She was too exhausted to build another shelter. Too feeble minded to recognize good wood from damp. After two more days of being alone in a cold white blizzard that had finally thrown her off course she saw the Frost approach her once more.


    She slid down against the tree her legs angled out not the least bit proper. He sat next to her and wrapped his arms around her. The Frost stroked her cheek tenderly. She could feel nothing else except the fuzziness of its palm tickling her.


    ¡°Father Winter is really doing well in these parts. Such beautiful shapes to look at and the snow sparkles just like Mother said.¡± Rose¡¯s lips trembled blue as she dumped out the remains of her basket. She was determined to be pleasant if she must die.


    ¡°I thank you for trying to comfort me in the end. That is a very lovely way to do your duty. Sometimes you know I am always warmer after eating. Could you give me more of a chance?¡± Her teeth chattered a little as she spoke. Frost nodded and backed off a bit as she gathered her cakes and put the rest of her things away in her basket.


    ¡°I bet the two of us look like two dolls, sitting like this in the snow. My Grandmother sews little white dolls, little maidens I would call them. I suppose once I¡¯m covered I¡¯ll look like that little snow maiden over there.¡± And it was true as the flurries lightened the snow pile across from them under the opposite tree that looked like a plump white sewn doll. It even had legs sticking out like theirs.


    Seeing it made Rose suddenly very sad, it occurred to her that she might soon look buried in snow. ¡°I really am trying to be resourceful.¡± She turned and looked up at the Frost. Bits of her face were blurry as it reflected back at her. Or maybe she was finally starting to cry for the first time since the wood. ¡°It¡¯s just that I felt like I had more strength when I took care of other people, not myself.¡± No it was only one tear, just like her mother. She gracefully wiped it away. She would not feel sorry for herself. Frost tilted its head looking down at her cakes. Her two little pirogs, it pointed as if to say, ¡°Are you going to eat that?¡± This made her laugh though it hurt her lungs to do so.


    ¡°Would you like some?¡± she asked. And its fuzzy branch shoulders shrugged. It got up onto its legs in anticipation.


    ¡°Here I want you to have the bigger one.¡± Rose smiled as she dropped the pirog down into Frost¡¯s hand. Part of her was just curious to see how he would eat it. The creature bowed to her then quickly sped off backwards up a tree. She felt a little jilted but not surprised. She closed her eyes. Something wet touched her nose. She smiled knowing the Frost was once again being mischievous, when she did not open her eyes there came again the same pressure, and then a heavy snorting breath. That startled her awake. Before her was the muzzle of a great white bear. The man eater her Father hunted.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    Somehow she forced her muscles to work though it pained her to stand as quickly as she did. Already her back was to a tree. This was not the tranquil way she pictured herself going. Nor the great hunter¡¯s way for her limbs would not even permit her to defend herself. The bear dropped a great pirog from its mouth and licked Rose¡¯s cheek on the same side the Frost had stroked and like the Frost the soft fuzziness of the tongue was all Rose could feel. Suddenly her limbs could move again. Her muscles felt warm and agile. Her insides felt as though she had just swallowed a warm drink.


    The bear looked at her with sparkling black eyes. Just like the Old Jack rabbit. It turned away and walked over to the other snow maiden. It began to brush its great paws against the pile lightly to reveal a real maiden sleeping in the snow. She was lovely even in her ice covered state, perhaps more so because of it. She was wearing a simple dress with light embroidery. It reminded Rose of the dresses her Mother used to wear before Grandmother had started sewing them for her. She had a tight little scarf turban wrapped around her head. Rose moved to touch her and her eyes opened.


    The girl stood up just as abruptly as Rose had without fear in her eyes. She smiled gently and curtsied. Rose smiled and curtsied back, certain she must be dreaming.


    ¡°Is this bear your friend?¡± Rose said cautiously for the pale white beauty of this girl still overwhelmed her.


    The little maiden looked at the bear and frowned, shaking her head. Then she smiled broadly at Rose and hugged her.


    ¡°Can you talk? What is your name?¡± Rose spoke in two languages, one for each question for this certainly looked like a foreigner to her and perhaps the older language taught by her Mother could help. The little girl shook her head with a sad frown. She opened her mouth to reveal she had no tongue. Rose clapped her hands over her own mouth to keep from screaming and backed away a distance. Instantly the other girl closed her mouth and looked sadder than ever. The bear made a great noise before Rose could apologize. It shook its head and lowered itself. The other girl looked confused. Rose announced immediately the bear¡¯s wishes.


    ¡°It wants us to climb on its back.¡± Rose was a little astonished, feeling no fear within her heart. The little snow girl on the other hand looked up the path Rose had just come from with a torn expression.


    ¡°Come on, he''s friendly! I think he saved our lives.¡± Rose insisted. For she was certain this was so. This bear was a truce offering from the Frost, or perhaps a strange bearer to the underworld. Either way she needed to satisfy her curiosity. If they were dead then they were dead and traveling on a bear would be more fun than wandering the world as a tormented spirit. On the other hand if they lived and he aided them how wondrous would that be?


    She climbed atop the bear with a little difficulty for he was large, strange that her hesitant female friend flung herself up with ease and grace. Soon they were off into the woods. Time became odd, only a moment yet also forever. Then they were before a cottage that looked like Rose¡¯s hata yet also wasn¡¯t. The door opened and inside was a great hearth with a silver flamed fire. Once inside the bear lowered and they slid off, for his back seemed suddenly slippery with melted snow.


    The little Snow maiden pet the bear and as she did more snow arose on the top of his back and slid down his coat.


    ¡°Well that is strange.¡± Rose stated for his soft warm fur had been comfortable while they were out in the blizzard. ¡°Perhaps he needs to be groomed a bit. Let¡¯s try and see what happens.¡±


    Just like Grandmother¡¯s cat in the sunlight he sprawled out before the fire. The little snow maiden soon found a brush that Rose felt certain was not on the stool before they had turned around. The more they brushed the more snow fell, as they became frustrated the bear became more amused rolling and panting in it like a great dog.


    Rose began to feel mirthful. She played with the snow and made great stacks wondering why she wasn¡¯t sick of it after being lost for days. Thinking about her weary journey she found her lids growing heavy. They both cuddled next to the bear and fell asleep.

 Bear Prince

    Chapter Bear Prince


    Rose heard the door open. She opened her eyes feeling well rested. She continued to lie still to observe the bear as he lumbered in. He had two fish in his mouth. His shoulder was dripping not just with snow this time blood. Beneath the blood she saw a glint of metal. He dropped the fish by the fire and gave a great sigh staring into the flames. He looked down at the little snow maiden with sad eyes. Somehow Rose felt during this moment as if she were an intruder and not a guest, she smiled weakly with embarrassment at him when his head turned abruptly to look at her.


    ¡°You are hurt, may I help you?¡± Rose spoke as she sat up with real concern. Almost immediately after the Snow Maiden opened her eyes and sat up quickly with a stiff motion. She was smiling broadly yet her eyes were blank and she looked at no one in particular. Truly she still reminded Rose of a little doll. This movement seemed to aggravate the bear. He snorted and gave off a sort of moan. Rose thought he was heading for the door again instead he turned to the window with a low sill.


    The window was placed just where it should be in Rose¡¯s hata. In this cabin it was very tall; it nearly reached the ceiling. The cabin itself was very tall, Rose suspected it was to accommodate the bear so it could rise up on its haunches whenever it wished. It was then that Rose noticed that there were no shutters over it; the entire window was covered with sheer ice. You could see through to the outside where snow fell. Rose felt the air around her for a moment. There was not a hint of cold inside the room. The bear stood on his hind legs and tapped the ice, at the same time up popped the Frost with its domed head of dew on the other side who also tapped with its long icicle fingers right where the other¡¯s claw touched.


    ¡°Did he do that to you?¡± Rose stood up astonished, still thinking of the bear¡¯s injury. The bear had his back to her and shook with a kind of chuckle then as it turned around the fur became a cape that swung with fluid motion and before her was a gorgeous man. So handsome it stung to look at him. He flipped the fur to the inside and the outside of his cape sparkled like the sheer blue ice of the window. He adjusted his appearance a little, while Rose remembered to close her mouth.


    ¡°You ask funny questions because of your heart you cannot help but know.¡± Fedor, for it was Fedor, sat down on the sill which was wide enough to be a bench and gestured she take a seat on the chair that was across from him. She didn¡¯t remember it being there before then again it seemed to have always been there, just as she knew who he was without him saying so. The Frost in the window matched every move made by Fedor as he spoke fuzzy ice growing and melting off of its birch tree arms.


    ¡°I think I wish to speak to you of your first question for I am a spirit of nature and greedy only for my own purposes.¡±


    Most people would have nodded but Rose was not so inclined for she didn¡¯t understand and never pretended. This pleased Fedor.


    ¡°To answer your question I was and am in pain. You offered to help me, will you still?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know you.¡± Rose stated bluntly for this perfect image frightened her, ¡°You seem to be a dream. Yet, I don¡¯t like seeing others in pain even if they aren¡¯t real.¡±


    ¡°You did not answer my question with a yes which means you are not yet dependable.¡± Fedor raised a brow.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe I am. I am just a child. If I agree to help you it cannot be about your shoulder for that is already healed.¡± Rose admired his sparkling breastplate, exposed shirt sleeves showed no sign of blood.


    Fedor laughed a boyish laugh and behind him the Frost tinkled. ¡°Oh I do like it when humans are clever. It gives me hope for your race. You are good and clever and that makes you very special.¡±


    Rose gasped, the way he spoke of humans even though he looked like one made her see the image of him a little differently. She remembered being little staring down into a pot her mother had filled with water. Making faces at her own reflection.


    ¡°You are the Frost.¡± She whispered, still unsure even as she said it. ¡°That is merely your reflection.¡±


    ¡°Very good,¡± Fedor smiled, ¡°Even your Mother with her exceptional sight could not determine that. Like most humans she would not speak to me unless I appeared in this form to her.¡±


    ¡°So you are the voice of Father Winter, Fedor, and Frost. With such power, why take the form of a bear?¡± Rose was brimming with more questions than ever before whether or not she would be answered was another matter.


    ¡°In this form I can speak with humans. I cannot interact with them physically or aid them in any way.¡± He reached out his hand to Rose who felt the inclination to reach back and like a ghost of legend his hand passed through her up to the arm.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    ¡°You see it takes all my effort to maintain this image and to translate. Ours is a language far beyond yours and yet in many ways so much more simple when you get down to the elements. Humans are, well I don¡¯t wish to say stupid or slow but unaware of what truly surrounds them. They suffer from a sort of blindness.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I shall be offended. My mother and I have the sight.¡± Rose pondered out loud.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just sight really. I could tell you fathoms of things. Not being able to do them yourself you would not understand. Then there are things I instruct to do and you simply refuse. And there are also rules of mortality which I must obey and not reveal to you. Things you might be able to discover yourself. I must not hinder the possible growth of your soul in any way.¡±


    ¡°I felt you touch me as the Frost.¡± Rose realized if it was difficult for him to translate it might be difficult for him to stay on topic.


    ¡°Yes well as the Frost I am truly in my element and do as I was meant. In that form all I can really do is harm humans who cannot adapt themselves. It is the form I take to do battle with other immortals. Yet I have no wish to harm every human who accidentally stumbles into this fray. Of course this means I must pay a price. In order not to harm mortals or just to aid them I must become mortal.¡±


    ¡°So as the bear you bleed. As the bear you can die?¡± Rose¡¯s eyes grew wide. ¡°My Father, he hunts you. He thinks you kill people.¡±


    ¡°And he would not be wrong.¡± Fedor shrugged, ¡°His weapons do not frighten me. They only delay me. If I lose the body of this bear it is true I must experience death and lose this coil. Yet it only means I would have to find a new mortal form. Perhaps next time I shall be a salamander. I do love the little creatures.¡±


    ¡°Why not just become human? It seems that as long as you can change yourself you are safe.¡± Rose¡¯s stomach growled, trying not to be rude; she spared a slight glance to the fish. The little Snow Maiden got up and began to skin them with a little knife from her pocket.


    Fedor sighed, ¡°To become human is to truly fall. I would be unable to use any of my powers. I would have to learn what you call magic from scratch as if I were just born. Perhaps I have said too much in front of her. She cannot be trusted, you know.¡± He nodded in the direction of the snow maid.


    ¡°Why?¡± Rose started.


    ¡°She is not what she seems. She is a slave. She serves another master.¡± He looked at her and then quickly clenched his teeth shut. Through them he said. ¡°I cannot tell you more. It would destroy your innocence.¡± Rose thought he was alluding to a tragic past perhaps of abuse. She felt sorry for the little girl.


    Soon they began to roast the fish over the magical silver fire. It tasted delicious. Fedor did not move away from the sill and traced patterns upon the window. His image on the other side did the same.


    ¡°Fedor, I thank you for everything you have done. You saved me even though you did not have too. I suppose I owe you a debt.¡± Rose bit her lip not knowing what it was she was promising.


    ¡°Suppose?¡± Fedor raised a brow. He went to the door and opened it. He sat down and began to make little figures in the snow. Rose braved the cold to see what he was doing. He had fashioned Old Jack finishing him by pulling two of the black pegs off his shirt to make the eyes.


    ¡°You are the one who has been sending him! I knew it!¡± Rose stomped.


    ¡°This is a Chill. As I call them. Not to be confused with what you consider a chill.¡±


    Rose shivered and she wondered if he had just done that to her on purpose to make his point. He whispered something in the rabbit¡¯s ear and it awoke and bounded off.


    ¡°Why are you destroying my Grandmother¡¯s garden?¡±


    ¡°My enemy seeks something from it. Of which I know not what. He is the one who opened the passage between worlds and destroyed the balance. I am here as a mercenary on behalf of Lady Spring to bring punishment to him. Rose I need you to find him for me.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Rose shivered, this time not from the cold.


    ¡°He is among your villagers hiding in the forest amongst Lady Spring¡¯s bounty. He could be disguised as anyone, most certainly he is someone you have already met. His scent is upon you. If you find him for me I will leave your Grandmother alone.and I cannot interfere with her works; without cause. However much I would like too.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean? Would you like too?¡± Rose folded her arms for warmth. The blizzard around them seemed to be swirling much faster.


    ¡°I can say no more. It is best we part so that you can make your own discoveries. Farewell Rose, I shall not be far. ¡± Fedor vanished and so did the hata. Even the fish Rose had not yet finished was gone. The little Snow Maiden remained and trotted over to her with a look of confusion. They were next to the crashed cart half buried in snow.


    ¡°I know where we are!¡± Rose exclaimed, taking the Snow Maidens hand, and heading home she found all her fear was gone.


    The Frost, who watched her from afar, knew this was a dream that would not last. He gripped his shoulder where he had been wounded by her Mother only moments ago while fishing. Elena had been the last of his loyal followers in this realm. He followed her daughter until he could protect her no longer and she crossed over into warmer lands yet more vicious hands. He nearly transformed into a bear again. Until at the barrier, Lady Spring met him, heavy with birth weeping.


    ¡°Have you come to give me rest? Does not my Lord summon me below yet? Other places dwindle without my full power.¡±


    ¡°His Lord rages, I assure you. His passions are deeply conflicted. Those who do this to you I cannot touch. Patience, we feel your pain.¡± Fedor bowed and kissed her hand. His cold gave her no comfort.


    ¡°I bleed, I bleed, and every day I bleed this land grows hollow. My mother earth will not suffer this of me much longer. This land shall become desolate.¡± Spring looked around sadly for she loved all life and all things.


    ¡°I shall remain until I fulfill my duty. I shall remain until all that is lost is found. I shall love this land even when there is nothing here to love.¡± Frost felt that this was truly his kingdom.


    ¡°One day your obsession with these mortals will tear you apart. Your attachment to humans is heartbreaking. All they worship is the taking.¡±


    ¡°In that respect we are much the same.¡± Frost retreated.

 Boiling overhead

    Chapter is Boiling over


    The dwarf kicked in the door. ¡°Eat him! Eat him! Eat him!¡±


    Baba Yaga was prone to such demons at times. It irked her to no end that a man who was supposedly her servant could simply smash through all her wards at once.


    ¡°What did he do today?!¡± she dropped the dismembered leg into the water. It was Hilda¡¯s perhaps or maybe Nina''s; she had gotten the dried parts mixed up over the years. She had found them in the frozen snow, apparently they had killed each other. As she thought of the fact that she had never found her Rose the cauldron began to boil over with her rage.


    ¡°Look! Look don¡¯t you see?¡± The man pointed to his beard which had been trimmed short with a wild crooked swipe it appeared, barely noticeable except to another dwarf. He had to let go of the silver chain with one hand to show her and it nearly yanked him out the door.


    ¡°Come inside here and sit!¡± Baba Yaga snarled in wolf and Hansel trotted in pretty as you please and sat on his haunches. Baba Yaga turned and began stirring. She was actually hiding a smile from the dwarf. There were times her barely beating human heart found kinship with this boy¡¯s trickery of course it was the tastiness of his will that was attractive.


    The disappearance of his sister even had not disheartened him. Which told Baba Yaga that she was out there still alive, twins who possessed magic often had a connection or bond. Not that she needed his connection. Every day she checked the doll and she saw it was sleeping comfortably and warm somewhere. At the time, she thought she had been smart to leave her captive behind to wait for the children in case they backtracked. Instead she lost both girls while searching for one and it was aggravating; water hissed as it hit the floor.


    ¡°I command you to change.¡± She growled and Hansel as much as he wished to fight it changed swiftly back into a boy. The dwarf chained him to the wall while a house glove picked up the hatchet.


    ¡°Shall we take his whole arm this time?¡± The dwarf licked his lips. And the glove seemed to quiver with excitement for a moment; it revealed its true form of glowing bone.


    ¡°No, I told you! You will ruin the recipe. Only two fingers for tasting!¡± Baba Yaga ordered.


    Hansel obediently put out his hand and down went the hatchet. He barely flinched and afterwards licked until his two longest fingers grew back. His lack of concern over this matter bothered the witch. Over everything else he struggled over this he seemed too complacent. A noise from her bedroom stopped her stirring. Quickly Baba Yaga went to go check her dolls.


    Sure enough, one was up and moving. It walked in a rocking manner towards her foot. His pale twin was near, very near.


    ¡°Go and fetch Ivan!¡± She commanded the dwarf.


    ¡°I just got here for dinner.¡± whined the little man.


    Baba Yaga snatched the two fingers from his greedy little hands and threw them in the soup. ¡°Fetch him quickly!¡± The hatchet floated away and the gloves folded themselves neatly on a cedar chest. The dwarf excitedly grumbled. Hansel flashed bright glowing eyes in his direction.


    ¡°My boy your defiance pleases me.¡± Baba Yaga purred, ¡°With your sister back we shall see how resistant you remain.¡± Hansel looked to the window and opened his mouth but quickly she said, ¡°Change!¡±


    ¡°Babushka I am home!¡± Rose ran up the path to the door which was steep. Baba Yaga quickly dipped her finger in the soup and splashed her eyes.


    ¡°Is that my little one, my Granddaughter!¡± she cried and quickly moved to the doorway. To Rose it appeared she had been crying and she felt badly for making her Grandmother worry. ¡°Grandmother I am so sorry it was only supposed to be a few days and I was gone for almost a whole week.¡± Rose hugged her. ¡°We were chased by a Wolf and then the Frost nearly froze us and then¡­¡±


    ¡°Almost a week, it has been six years.¡± Babushka pinched Rose¡¯s nose. ¡°And you have stopped aging properly as if you have been slowed.¡± At this Baba Yaga¡¯s eyes narrowed. Rose was so surprised by this statement she spoke to herself in soft disbelief. ¡°Six years, that can¡¯t be.¡±You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    ¡°The Frost you say?¡± Grandmother pondered aloud.


    ¡°Yes¡­¡± Rose was uncertain of how much to tell her Grandmother. Just then a great wolf bounded out of the doorway and began barking, each bark sounded like her name, ¡°Rose! Rose! Rose!¡±


    ¡°Babushka¡­¡± Rose gasped and the little maiden jumped in front of her defensively.


    Baba Yaga quickly pulled out a muzzle from her shall and bound the animal¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Many things have changed since you have been gone, my child.¡± Baba Yaga sighed.


    ¡°Your Father and Miller are training this partially wild dog for my protection. And your mother¡­¡±


    ¡°Grandmother, did you hear it? It sounded like it said my name.¡± Rose wasn¡¯t listening and she was still distracted. ¡°Is that a Wolf too?¡± Rose shivered and Martha turned to give her a hug. Wolves still frightened her and she looked at the animal who stared back at her whining. Grandmother smacked it.


    ¡°You only think so because you have been frightened. I assure you it is only a mongrel barking. I see you have found a companion.¡± Babushka looked the other little girl up and down with interest.


    ¡°She cannot talk because she has no tongue. I think she was a slave to someone.¡± Rose presented the girl she had found. Baba Yaga acted shocked.


    ¡°Sweet child I shall treat you as I would my own for you have brought back what is most precious.¡± Grandmother embraced her abomination in a hug. ¡°You will be my Granddaughter¡¯s playmate and protector. I shall name you Martha.¡±


    The dog growled through his muzzle. Ivan appeared with the Miller who was panting behind him. ¡°Rose, is that you? I have searched for you everywhere!¡±  Nina¡¯s mother Natasha came running up. She had several boils all over her face. Her appearance was the second thing to frighten Rose.


    ¡°Rose, I followed Ivan when I heard you had come home! Where are my daughters? Are they with you? I have not heard a word and no one will take a message for me!¡±


    Rose looked a little nervous; she did not know what to say; surely their mother would not believe them murderers. Eventually, carefully she found her words.


    ¡°They chose to go on to Volpi. I could not stop them. They were determined to get through the snow.¡± Grandmother¡¯s pestle wavered on the table but did not fall over.


    ¡°What snow? Where is Sadko?!¡± The distraught mother demanded.


    ¡°Leave the child be, she is tired and needs rest after being lost in the woods.  We still have news to give her.¡± Grandmother scooted them all through the door and began to close it in the Mother¡¯s face. ¡°Please, Ivan, will you not go to Volpi! Will you not search for my kin! Something terrible has happened I feel! They are lost! They are lost!¡±


    ¡°Do not worry,¡± Grandmother smiled her cold eyes, ¡°Volpi is not very far. Why have they barely even left home¡­¡± The door shut. Weeping was heard briefly outside and then footsteps.


    ¡°Father,¡± Rose¡¯s eyes brimmed with tears. ¡°Sadko, I think must be dead. There was a great beast that attacked him on our travels and chased us to the outside.¡±


    ¡°He is not¡­the only one.¡± Ivan sighed. He sat at the table and Grandmother poured him some soup. To the girls she gave some sweet hot bread.  Rose found she was too excited to sit at the table as weary as she was. The silence drew out too long.


    ¡°Is Mother worried sick about me?¡± Rose bit her lip. The fire crackled and everyone in the room looked very grave.


    ¡°Rose, your Mother went looking for you and instead found a bear.¡± Ivan laid Elena¡¯s cloak on the table. He had been carrying it folded in his belt. ¡°She is dead.¡±


    The great dog began growling as Rose felt dizzy and dropped her bread on the floor. Martha jumped up immediately and held her steady in a hug. All she could see was the blood on the bear¡¯s shoulder when he entered as they slept. She remembered his cleverness in avoiding the question. How he admitted to killing people. She teetered sliding down even through Martha¡¯s grasp and Ivan bent down to scoop her up off the floor. He took her into Grandmother¡¯s bedroom in shock.


    Upon the covers she grew angry. ¡°No! No! No!¡± she cried, ¡°It can¡¯t be! I was¡­!¡± She pounded the pillow with her fists.


    ¡°Yearling,¡± Her Grandmother took the cloak from Ivan and sat on the bed and stroked her back. This gave Rose more pain for it reminded her of her own Mother and she wept. ¡°It was not your fault alone. It is the fault of this big wild world; you see how hard I struggle to keep evil out of this realm?¡± Babushka whispered.


    She put pressure on Rose¡¯s shoulders to make her roll over. Grandmother stood and let the cloak open. The ancient cloak of the order of white, pristine and glittering like new. Rose wondered how they ever got the blood out of it. Such was the darkness of her thoughts.


    ¡°One day when you are of age and your hair matches the color of the roses on the tree I shall present this to you a woman, beautiful and strong and together we shall see the world in honor of her.¡± She folded it and placed it in a chest at the foot of the bed.


    ¡°You must rest.¡± She tucked Rose in and kissed her cheek. She said a little chant to make sure no bugs were in the bed. Rose turned on her side and watched Babushka limp out the door. Her Father sat at the table, eyes dark and hollow not looking at her as the dwarf smoked a pipe and spoke in a low voice to him. Martha grabbed the door handle with a sympathetic frown and began to shut it at Grandmother¡¯s request. The white dog that still looked like a wolf to her patiently lay under the table staring. Its eyes seemed to be saying something. She was too miserable to care. Still they burned into her as she slept almost as much as her grief.

 Resilence

    Chapter Resilience


    At first Rose ate little to nothing upon her return. How everyone could just go on gulping and slurping after the beauty of the village was slaughtered was beyond her. She constantly had to remind herself that she had been gone for longer than a week. That they had already done rites in Elena¡¯s honor and by Ivan¡¯s order had only just repeated them for her benefit. It was more than her mourning heart from the sorrow of her mother¡¯s loss.


    She had come to realize the villager¡¯s gluttony when she had been starving out in the woods and it sickened her. There was an excess here and a greed; that reminded her of what the little boy had said about the land being cursed. She looked at nothing the same anymore, all conversation shallow, simple, timid. No one talked about the bear in Ivan¡¯s presence.  No more complaints were made when he went off hunting alone.Yet everyone still smiled at the prosperity around them. Women continued to grow round in their bellies.


    Martha for her part was ever patient and smiling. At times Rose resented her for she had taken over all the chores that her Mother had once done. She cooked in the kitchen and worked in the fields and was helping Grandmother in the art of birthing. Something even her Mother had not been allowed to do. Of course, Rose had no real interest in these things. And Martha was very sweet and loyal and so forgiven.


    Ivan¡¯s attempts at change only made it painfully clear that things were never again to be the same. He gave the larger room in the Hata over to the girls and took Rose¡¯s smaller room with the window. He vowed never again to take a wife. The heat in the large room was stifling. Rose constantly had nightmares of a girl screaming when she slept, of icicle hands and a great mauling bear which would turn into a brown wolf.


    When Grandmother recognized her weariness she announced, ¡°You cannot allow yourself to be destroyed by memories. Your body must overcome such blows to the mind and spirit.¡± Afterwards her Father kept her nearly exhausted with exercise and training. He feared that she would be in the same situation as her Mother one day with no defense. Ivan sparred with her like he had never sparred before.  He defeated her time and time again without mercy and with different weapons from the forge they constructed together. He revealed all the tricks of his trade that she had only gleamed off of him from afar in her youth.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Grandmother too took her duties more seriously. ¡°I must make sure you grow up to be a fine woman, not just a warrior. Your Mother would wish for it.¡± After Rose worked hard in her garden every morning they had lessons inside the Hata of manners, poise and elegance, even dancing. Grandmother would give instruction: while knitting, not only of one country''s ways and languages of several. Martha would demonstrate the physicalness of behaviours and at first just like with her Father Rose found she was bested. Martha must have been part of a great household of ladies for she moved with such grace and ease in these matters. However, near the end of the day in the garden was a singing lesson, aided by Grandmother¡¯s little tuning box. Rose felt sorry for Martha who could not sing nor even speak.


    Babushka had named the fast friends sisters and called them new nicknames, Rose Red and Rose White, after the trees in her garden. She often checked Martha¡¯s hair lovingly as well, scooping her finger up under her turban to remove one strand. She told Rose it was in Martha¡¯s religion never to remove the headdress and Rose respected this. And so two years passed in a blur, nothing but lesson, practice, practice, lesson and Rose began to feel whole again. Better than whole she felt growth.


    One day she realized all that her Grandmother had done to get her over the grief. While she tucked her in she whispered as she used to when she had been a little younger. ¡°Babushka, how is it that you know so much about great ladies?¡±


    Grandmother smiled a secretive smile that she always had when thinking upon her past.


    ¡°I once was one in a palace long ago.¡± Grandmother pulled up her covers.


    ¡°You mean this truly?¡± Rose could not hold down her skepticism yet she also could not deny the knowledge she had learned.


    Grandmother laughed at her expression, ¡°Once lowly I was even a Queen.¡± Her voice suddenly became dark, ¡°Until war came and I was banished I had feasting and sacrifices in my honor every night.¡±


    Rose did not tell her Grandmother she was sick of feasting and the sacrificing of animals for everyone to eat in celebration. Instead she changed the subject but not entirely.


    ¡°Why was there war? What happened?¡± Rose sat in her Father¡¯s antlered chair at the foot of the bed.


    ¡°A group of men who thought themselves holy,¡± she spat. ¡°Overthrew my land and scattered my followers.¡± She squeezed the cat on her bed and it hissed.


    Ivan opened the door. ¡°Rose, your Grandmother wishes to sleep, let her rest.¡±


    Rose curtsied as taught in her rigorous lessons in the manner of one towards a queen yet allowed herself to kiss her Grandmother¡¯s hickory cheek.


    ¡°Grandmother, you are a great woman to triumph over such loss.¡±


    ¡°And soon you shall be a great lady also.¡± Baba Yaga closed her eyes with a content smile. ¡°Why else would I train you so hard?¡±

 Truth and Stone

    Chapter Truth and Stone


    The day her mind awoke Rose defended herself well against her Father. As they would spar she was able to speak to him and not have to gasp for air. Little he found could distract her anymore; her determination fueled her raw talent. At sixteen she fought as well as any other boy her age would have, better.  She still was not allowed back into the woods. At first in her grief she had only wanted to spend time with those closest to her. Today after some thought in her bed Rose realized she had been deterred from one form of study.


    Yesterday in the garden Grandmother had cursed the bear under her breath, something she had been cautious not to do for a long while.  Rose might have missed it except for the familiar creases in her forehead and aggravated kick at the dirt. Rose felt strong again. She knew it was time. The trickster within the bear perhaps could never be touched yet if she studied the secret arts of her mother Rose was certain something could be revealed. She shared these thoughts to no one, not even to Martha.


    As charmed as she had become with her on nights when she styled Rose¡¯s hair or danced in the moonlight of the window she still did not trust her entirely. After all she had come unexpectedly and even Frost had said she was someone else¡¯s slave. More and More Rose found her smiles to be frozen and doll-like.


    ¡°Father, I do not wish to cook this afternoon.¡± Rose announced with a flurry of blows from her staff.


    ¡°You never wish to cook Rose.¡± Ivan knocked aside her assault with ease.


    ¡°What I mean to say is that I am going up to Sadko¡¯s this evening to clean his cottage and check on the geese.¡± Rose ducked and weaved from his counters.


    ¡°Only three left, we have eaten the rest. You really must stop calling it Sadko¡¯s cottage. He is dead, it is your inheritance. Wait and tomorrow I shall help you with repairs.¡± Ivan made more attempts at her feet to make sure she wasn¡¯t getting too comfortable with one stance.


    ¡°I felt I had left it in disrepair for too long. Besides, I missed Sadko¡¯s farewell celebration. I wish to go and soak in old memories alone.¡±


    ¡°Very well,¡± Ivan relented in attack as well as words. ¡°As soon as Martha is done I shall send her to you with some bread and cheese.¡±


    This is exactly what Rose had hoped for: she made her way up to Sadko¡¯s after the lesson finished. First she went to the barn and fed the geese, this being a regular chore. Ever since her return the dove still nestled in the rafters which she hoped was a sign that its master would return. The boy had vanished just at a time when she had so many questions to ask him. Why was Frost after him? For she assumed it was his scent that Frost smelled upon her.  What door had he opened between worlds? Was this why a witch hunted him? Perhaps the boy had blamed himself when she had been missing and her Mother had died. If so she understood his pain and did not blame him


    Rose began thinking about the brown Wolf creature in the woods. She suspected, rather hoped, that was the true murderer. Her Father believed her story about the beast attacking Sadko. Whether or not he agreed with the exaggerated size of the animal was another story. When searching for her he had found large wolf tracks in the woods, which is why he had begun to train a captured ¡°dog¡± for Grandmother¡¯s protection. She had already grown weary of caring for the white dog and gave it to Miller. Rose had not seen the animal again since her arrival.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    Father was adamant about not mentioning Wolves to the villagers. Such was their fear of the old days. He was more intimate to Rose¡¯s horror about the small details when he found Elena that indicated it was a bear that did it. Rose could not be assured. She had not seen the evidence for herself. She went into the house in case her Father was still observing her from the outside.  She saw no sign of him. That did not mean anything. She then snuck out the window and around the well. Soon she was down the hill and through the field and to the place she longed for.


    The shrine was overgrown. The neglect was proof that no one else in the village knew of this place.  Rose endured the sight only briefly before tending to it as she once observed her mother do. Many of these skills she had learned from her Grandmother in the garden. She pruned back the plants with little scissors, and cleared out the obvious weeds.  She left the area looking wild enough that the stones were still well hidden, she polished them when finished.


    Rose knelt to the ground and tried to remember the old prayers. Reciting the old language she had never quite forgotten yet was buried deep below all her other lessons. Soon the Old Jack hopped out before her.  It opened its mouth and spoke.


    ¡°Thank-you I can reside in this place without melting.¡± It was the voice of Fedor.  It turned to examine the sparkle of its back.


    ¡°Fedor, why did you kill my Mother?¡± Rose decided to give the deity¡¯s pet one chance to explain.


    ¡°Your mother is not dead.¡± The great rabbit stood up with a start; ears twitching.


    ¡°She is dead, murdered by a bear in the woods.¡± Rose picked up two of the last stones she had been polishing.


    ¡°Are you truly a demon that saved me? Was my Mother the cost?¡± The edge in her voice started to rise at his denial and blank look. She thought she had faced this hurt that began well within her. She changed to the old language remembering her well aimed attack before. ¡°I saw blood on a bear¡¯s shoulder confess!¡±


    She threw a stone which was absorbed into the Old Jack¡¯s stomach, his eyes turned into white pebbles just like the stone.


    ¡°The blood on my coat was from my own mortal frame after being attacked. You would recall if your mind wasn¡¯t so feeble and easily swayed. Your Mother went upstream with Sadko.¡±


    ¡°They live?¡± Rose dropped her other stone in shock. She went down on her knees before the Chill.


    ¡°She is a slave to Lueda Yedka, the witch of this land that all but one child fears.¡±


    ¡°Is it Martha? Or is it the boy I met?¡± Rose entreated. Old Jack¡¯s nose began to twitch terribly and out shot the stone from its belly hitting the tree next to her. Its eyes were dark black coals again.


    ¡°That was a nasty trick; I shall not forget your abilities when next we meet.¡± Fedor¡¯s little puppet scrambled allowing for no further questions. Rose picked up the stone as a memento; it was so cold it nearly burned her. She dropped it into her cloak pocket.


    No sooner had Rose made it to the other side of the field than Martha appeared before her with bread and cheese wrapped in a cloth. Rose chewed half heartedly. What if Martha was a servant of the witch? As her eyes focused on Martha¡¯s face across from her she noticed its likeness to her other friend.  Was it a trick of the evening light or perhaps the fact that so recently she had thought of him in the same context?


    No, these two had features very similar; she was certain though she had not seen him in a while. She remembered Martha¡¯s hair clippings taken by her Grandmother so blonde it was nearly white just like the boys. Though true her features were more feminine she had bright blue eyes that were similar to the one blue eye of the boy. Rose felt foolish for not noticing this before.


    ¡°Your people Martha, are they all so pale and have long fingers?¡± Martha only smiled, perhaps unable to answer. Then a horrifying thought occurred to her. What if her friend had not run away? What if he was right here before her? What if he had been changed by the witch into a girl? Rose suddenly remembered Frost¡¯s words in the little warm cabin. ¡°She is not what she seems.¡±

 Whispers

    Chapter Whispers


    ¡°Do you fear anyone in the village?¡± Rose asked the children as she walked them to the garden the next day. Grandmother had another birth to see too and so Rose had offered to take care of the children.


    ¡°No!¡± one little one shouted as he jumped rambunctiously waving a stick in his hand. ¡°Not with the black hood of Ivan to guard us!¡±


    The rest cheered, jeered and imitated him as they skipped around Rose. However, Rose noticed that one child bit his thumbnail. Later, he laid down obediently for his nap and turned away from her.


    When the others were fast asleep, Rose woke him up. ¡°Emilyan,¡± she said gently, for that was the child¡¯s name. ¡°Do you fear something? You can tell me.¡±


    He rubbed his eyes groggily as he replied, ¡°Father grew angry because I wet my bed.¡±


    ¡°Oh,¡± Rose comforted him with a hug disappointed. Then he continued, perhaps reassured because she did not laugh at him, though he was getting far too old to do such a thing.


    ¡°I hear noises, whispers at night, scraping on the walls. Mother says it is the tree, when she leaves the tree cackles.¡± He buried his face into her arm as she imagined he did to his pillow when such noises sounded. Another child sat up over hearing his words. He did not whisper but spoke out right.


    ¡°Sometimes at night I see a figure in the corner of my room. It doesn¡¯t move.¡±


    ¡°I do too!¡± a little girl agreed, still curled up on the ground. ¡°Mine does move and when it opens its mouth it sounds like door hinges without oil.¡±


    Soon all of the children joined in excitedly, ¡°I see shadows!¡±, ¡°Glowing eyes peeked over the edge of my bed!¡±, ¡°I once saw red hair slide out of the window sill!¡± She could see the children were beginning to upset themselves and others around them, feeding off the last story, making it sound more and more terrible.


    ¡°Red hair indeed you are only saying that because Rose sits here!¡± Grandmother grunted as she entered the garden. Emilyan ducked behind Rose. She had a scolding eye as she spoke and the children silenced immediately.


    ¡°There is nothing to fear so long as Ivan is here.¡± Babushka sang a little song twisting her fun little music box and the children echoed it with Rose adding her own voice and smiling encouragement. Soon they all laid back down at her command and slept deep once more.


    ¡°Come with me to check the trees.¡± Grandmother gestured to Rose and she followed with admiring eyes, grateful to her kin for settling the children. Yet not convinced that what had been said was true. ¡°Babushka, what if a demon still plagues our village?¡± She entreated her Grandmother.


    ¡°One does, the Wolf in the woods.¡± Her Grandmother snorted, ¡°And the white, man eater bear, without my power keeping them at bay they would surely ravage the town.¡±


    Rose said nothing though she did not know why. Her Grandmother had always been her closest companion growing up. Yet her old prejudices perhaps blinded her to certain realities about Frost at least.


    ¡°The children seem to feel a strange presence at night.¡±


    ¡°Yes, children often fear dark corners and creaking noises. Don¡¯t you remember when you were little how often I checked under your bed?¡± Rose could not deny the fact. Although, come to think of it, her Grandmother usually insisted on such things, not the other way around.


    Grandmother pulled from her knotted red shall some light colored hair she had taken earlier from Martha. And for the first time in a long while Rose noticed that there had been a vast change. The white rose tree was blooming full and thick and was just as tall as Rose¡¯s tree. ¡°Have you changed something Babushka, how marvelous this tree appears.¡±If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ¡°Yes, these years have caused it to finally grow at last. Sometimes it takes a little prodding of the elements to get what you want.¡± She snipped a rose off with her little shears comparing. ¡°Martha tells me you have been curious about her origins. Is this true?¡±


    ¡°She tells you this?¡± Rose looked over to see Martha approaching while looking down demurely.


    ¡°No matter, dear perhaps it would be best if you finally sated that curiosity of yours with things of simplicity. This is her home as it is yours. We wouldn¡¯t want you two getting into trouble again.¡±


    Rose was confused by this odd warning. She curtsied obediently. ¡°You are right, may we go to Sadko¡¯s home to clean?¡±


    ¡°Your inheritance could use a good dusting.¡± Grandmother gestured that they were dismissed.


    Rose stopped to gather water from a trough, not wishing to fight the well this morning. As Serge walked by she greeted him. ¡°I hope all is well with your wife this morning.¡± Rose said politely.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Serge looked at her oddly.


    ¡°The birth this morning¡­¡± Rose felt that perhaps she should not have said anything. Her Grandmother had not told her the circumstances.


    ¡°My wife is not pregnant. She is only sick.¡±  Serge laughed. ¡°Your Grandmother came to give her some medicine. Please do not tell her you thought she was pregnant or she will realize she is fat.¡± He patted her head and walked on laughing all the way.


    ¡°Oh,¡± Rose blushed, certain that his wife was to be due today. Her Grandmother had mentioned it twice in the past. They passed Marousha¡¯s house and she was heavy again, with a child. Yet as haggard as her face was she smiled gently at the two girls as she lightly swept her doorstep. Rose had avoided speaking to her these last two years. She had no desire to hear more weeping. She felt very guilty for Marousha had always been kind to her so today she took a chance.


    ¡°May we borrow some rags from you today Marousha?¡± Martha curtsied for them both since Rose was heavy with two water buckets.


    ¡°Certainly,¡± Marousha smiled. When she returned and handed the cloths to Martha Rose dared again. ¡°Will we be having the pleasure of your other children in the garden soon?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean my other children?¡± Marousha was still smiling her eyes confused.


    ¡°Yes, your other children, your babies surely have grown.¡± Rose looked around Martha into the house. There were no noises or signs that any other children were inside.


    ¡°Oh Rose you are so funny. You must mean them.¡± Marousha patted her tummy, ¡°Yes I do believe there is more than one in there, the way they kick. I¡¯m growing so heavy I shall soon have to take to bed. I feel so strange giving birth. This will make six you know, if it is two. My mother died giving birth to only me. Luckily your Grandmother does so well at putting me at ease.¡±


    Rose was so startled by these words she could find nothing to say. Marousha should have twelve children. Two more would make it fourteen. She seemed to think¡­Lost in thought her face became pale and blank. Marousha thought she had accidentally brought up bad memories for Rose of her own mother.  She was embarrassed and simply shut the door on her after saying, ¡°Well then, goodbye.¡±


    And so Rose¡¯s investigations had not wrought good tidings. There was a presence in the village that needed to be stopped and no adult seemed to be aware of it not even her own Grandmother. ¡°All children feared it except one, Martha who was perhaps the boy newly changed because he or she was being controlled by it.¡±


    Inside Sadko¡¯s home Rose swept after Martha dusted and they moved the furniture around to what they agreed were more fashionable positions. It pained Rose to do this but in the end the result gave her a warm satisfaction. While Martha was beating out the mattresses on the other side of the house Rose found an abandoned pot over the stove filled with rotted porridge. She nearly vomited upon opening it and not wishing to expose it to Martha she took it out herself to the other side to rinse by the well. In the midst of this Old Jack hopped up.


    ¡°I am melting so I must tell you quickly how to trick the child slave into not following you about.¡± Rose opened her mouth. Then rolled the pot aside and knelt down to listen.


    ¡°There is a special broom in the corner by the door. This besom has been made with white magic so that it can hardly be seen unless you are looking for it. If you hand this to the little Snow Maiden she will freeze still and not move until you return to her and take the broom away.¡±


    ¡°Will it hurt her?¡± Rose whispered. Jack hopped away leaving bits of himself behind. Rose anxiously looked down over the village to see if anyone had noticed this exchange. In the distance she heard the children laughing in the garden. She had to save them.


    Entering the door Rose marveled at Martha as she flung the mattress onto the bed all by herself. Rose shut the door and instantly seeing the broom before her. Sighing she grabbed it and walked over to her. ¡°Martha we didn¡¯t get all the cobwebs about the ceiling. Can you reach them with this?¡± With a tilt of her head and her usual smile Martha reached out and grabbed the broom. The stillness was instant and dramatic. Her eyes were open, a complete vacancy of host. Rose ran out the door, once outside she dropped down and crawled through the tall brush all the way to the woods.

 King of the Elements

    50 King of the Elements


    Rose decided to follow the river as long as she could.  She found no signs that Sadko had traveled this direction. The air near the river was nipping.  The soft fog floating above it in patches made her sad. The last morning she had traveled along this path Sadko¡¯s laughter filled the air.  The world seemed rather desolate. The fog parted to reveal Fedor sitting amongst some reeds near the river under the shade of a tree.


    ¡°Fedor, why do you sit in the mud? You will ruin your handsome attire.¡± Rose scuttled over some roots to get to him.


    ¡°It is nice and cool.¡± Fedor sighed. ¡°Though not cool enough. There is a power here that draws me and allows me to stay.¡± He blinked suddenly and stared right at her with a dazzling smile. ¡°You think I am handsome? I wonder what I look like to you.¡±


    Rose smiled back unashamed, ¡°Like a rich Prince sitting in mud.¡±


    Fedor laughed, ¡°I am a King in my element. Why did you come here instead of following my Chill to the shrine?¡±Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    ¡°This is where Sadko always comes when he is lost.¡± Rose looked down at her feet embarrassed, a little ashamed at her behavior toward his voice in the Chill before.


    ¡°He is most definitely lost.¡± Fedor said with a sad smile. Rose did not catch his meaning, most mortals never did. In Rose¡¯s case it was because she could not keep her mind on the present.


    ¡°I wish I had a boat.¡± She sighed, peering down the river¡¯s expanse.


    ¡°I know where one floats. It doesn¡¯t go anywhere.¡± Fedor¡¯s face brightened.


    ¡°Is it broken?¡± Rose asked, confused.


    ¡°No, it is occupied.¡± Fedor pointed to the offshoot of a little stream indicating to follow it.


    ¡°A gentle banick told me a young man who likes to steal hearts floats in it all day long. When you find him you will have found Sadko. You should go to him.¡±


    ¡°Oh thank-you Fedor, this is excellent news!¡± Rose ran through him, with so little time in the day she could not waste anymore.


    Fedor grumbled to himself. He thought he had been straight forward to the little girl. That perhaps he had been better speaking to her than with her Mother.  He told her to follow the stream so that she would not. Apparently it did not matter what you told a human. They did whatever they wished. Perhaps they were just prone to run toward danger all the time. ¡°You really should work on your language skills.¡± The reeds whistled to him. He swayed in agreement, glad to be among the very wisest of the earth.

 Little boat

    Chapter  Little Boat


    The stream grew wider joined by fellow streams further down. In some places Rose noticed up to six streams forked into one another. The path she was on was nothing more than a dried up bed. That soon changed. First it turned muddy than it turned steep. The brush around her grew thick. Rose felt if she veered even in the slightest she would not find the boat. Rose found something about these beds strange; they appeared to be made differently than the natural streams. She began hopping from stone to stone. When some reeds snagged the cape of her hood, Rose turned around pulling backwards only to fall when it came loose. She went over a well hidden overhang and was plunged into a lake.


    Something grabbed onto her feet as it pulled her deeper down Rose was too stunned to even realize. Her nose and face were hit hard by the water for she had fallen from quite a height. Her cape had tangled around her arm. When the bubbles began to clear she tried to flail around to avoid rocks. That was when she felt the firm grip around her ankles.


    Hair floated before her blinking eyes as a cold hand traveled up to her shoulder. Rose¡¯s lungs began burning for air. Some of the hair moved back and she realized it wasn¡¯t her own and swung at it with a very slow weighted down arm. As her cape touched it a sizzling noise vibrated through the water as another cascade of bubbles rose up. The hair covered creature hissed revealing sharp teeth like a fish it darted away.


    No longer restricted, still under water making her way to the light above, Rose tried pulling herself up with the dark rock next to her. It drifted down and turned toward her, a body covered in moss, sockets without eyes and a face that was frozen in a look of terror. This terror Rose mirrored. She had been struggling to get to the surface before now she flayed like a neurotic water snake. Her hood made it to the top before she did. An arm plunged in and grabbed it, hauling her up with great speed. She broke through to the surface with a gasp which was good because soon after she was being pulled into a boat by her hood which was choking her. When the top half of her dropped into the boat she pulled away from her rescuer shivering. When he released her the hood flopped down over her head running water all down her face.


    ¡°Are you alright did that wicked bottom feeder bite you?¡± She did not respond right away to his question so he tried another language. Surprisingly she recognized this language it was her Grandmother¡¯s. She put up a hand to indicate she needed to finish coughing.


    He was not deterred he swung her feet fully into the boat removing her boots and socks. Rose did not misunderstand his actions, she recognized them as kindness. Once more her cape was twisted and she twisted it still further after gathering it up to ring out the water.


    ¡°You should take that off. You are going to get sick from the cold.¡± He reached toward her as she threw the cape behind her shoulders, her bright silver clasp reflected sunlight.  His hand changed direction and yanked back her hood. He sat down and steadied the rocking boat.


    ¡°Well, much better, I can see you.¡± The youth across from her smiled congenially. He was clean looking with a white shirt, brown pants rolled up to his knees. His short vest was layered over by colorful scales yet he did not stink of fish. It also had colorful stitched loops holding several different lures and hooks. Yet all of his clothing was very faded from being out in the sun matched his skin burned to a tan. Dark curls and dark eyes with hints of auburn in them made Rose stared a moment. This wasn¡¯t like when she had met the young boy her age. Nor was it like when she had been awed by the Frost. This was something between the two. He was older than her probably by four years. In her village he would be considered a man yet he somehow still had the sparkle of a child in his eyes. However, gradually Rose¡¯s eyes went up to his blue grey hat with goose feathers and instantly she was furious.


    ¡°Take that off!¡± Her teeth were still chattering.


    The boy looked at himself confused. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°That hat, you must not wear it. It is not yours!¡± Rose swiftly hopped up to take it and rocked the whole boat. She sat down quickly imitating his stance of holding the sides.


    He was amused by this surprising behavior and smiled crookedly to show it.


    ¡°Mariner¡¯s find, it came down the stream, by all rights that would make it mine.¡±


    ¡°Your wrong it isn¡¯t yours it¡¯s!¡± Rose looked to the lake water where she emerged distressed. She clasped her hand over her mouth. She felt sick.


    ¡°Hey now, Hey now¡­Hey...¡± The boy stammered not knowing what the appropriate response should be. Quickly he took off his hat and gave it to her.


    ¡°I beg your pardon. I didn¡¯t know he was your friend. It¡¯s just that I¡¯m stuck out here you know? The sun gets very hot and well I have to take what I can find.¡± He gestured under his seat where a variety of items were stored, some childrens¡¯ toys, clothes, a few supplies of thread and needles and lots of fishing rods and spears obviously hand made from things floating in the lake.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Rose took the hat back slowly, suspiciously. She wiped her tears away swiftly and looked around. ¡°Where am I?¡±


    ¡°Lake Visage, more importantly where are you from? Did the witch throw you in here to torment me?¡± He eyed her with the same suspicion as the boat spun.


    ¡°I am from Volhov.¡± Rose felt herself melting into normal conversation as she calmed down.


    ¡°Yep those are her stomping grounds alright. How did she catch you?¡± The way he implied it obviously meant that he was a captive himself.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t captured I came here looking for my friend.¡± Rose lowered her head in reverence sad eyes to the lake.


    ¡°I guess you found him.¡± The boy sighed.


    ¡°What about my Mother have you seen her?¡± Rose¡¯s looked up to him fearfully not sure what his answer would be. He was taken aback by the softness of her wet features in the sunlight. His eyes darted to the lake. ¡°I¡­ doubt she lives if the witch captured her. The only woman I have seen is the witch and even then she comes in disguise as a beautiful woman. I don¡¯t suppose your Mother is young and beautiful dark haired?¡±


    Rose bit her lip. ¡°She is beautiful however her hair is a light honey color and she is most certainly not a witch. I don¡¯t understand the Frost told me she went downstream with Sadko. He told me she wasn¡¯t dead.¡±


    ¡°The Frost,¡± His eyes widened, ¡°You have spoken to him where?¡±


    ¡°Here and there, about the wood.¡± Rose was surprised he believed her although considering the circumstances she should have known.


    ¡°Where was that exactly?¡± He persisted, and since Rose did not like his tone she quickly sealed her lips.


    ¡°I suppose he came to you as the handsome Fedor and entreated you to help him?¡± The boy raised a brow as he began selecting from his many poles. ¡°You must not trust him. He is at war. He will use you however he can in order to freeze this land.¡±


    ¡°Maybe the land is supposed to be frozen.¡± Rose mused aloud, yes it had been long and hard struggling through winter on the outside yet her Mother had a clear memory of it as did others. ¡°Why must everything be warm and perfect always?¡±


    ¡°Ah he has you smitten already I can see you probably fell in love with his big blue eyes.¡± The boy bated a hook and threw it in the water.


    ¡°I did not.¡± Rose crossed her arms and realized this was the second time she had argued with this person whom she did not know.


    ¡°What is your name?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Ivashko, though I barely know it anymore.¡± He sighed. ¡°I haven¡¯t spoken it to another freely for a long time, ever since she captured me.¡±


    ¡°She is Lueda Yedka, why did she not eat you?¡± Rose pondered.


    ¡°For someone so young you certainly know much. She seems to have an attraction to me. She keeps trying to seduce me. It took me a long time to see through all her tricks. She torments me by keeping me on this lake.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to find a way to kill her so I can rescue my Mother or at the very least get revenge.¡± Rose wrung out her hair; a movement in the water caused her to move closer to the boy. ¡°Was that the bottom feeder?¡±


    ¡°No, he¡¯s who I am trying to catch. The great goldfish, if I can catch him my wishes will be granted. Attracted by magic he comes here on purpose to taunt me. Being that he¡¯s a magic fish he¡¯s too wily to fall for any ordinary hook.¡±


    ¡°So why do you keep trying?¡± Rose arched a brow.


    ¡°Well it couldn¡¯t hurt though it irks me to no end that he only rubs against my lines leaving little golden scales behind. I collect them all. I¡¯ve nearly made a whole coat.¡± Ivashko smiled back at her. ¡°I can¡¯t swim through this water as you saw and this boat never gets close enough to the edge to let me leave.¡± Rose saw sweat was beading on his brow, as he spoke to her shading his eyes from the sun she felt sorry for him. ¡°Here, I suppose Sadko won¡¯t need this anymore.¡± She gave the hat back to him. ¡°Thanks, I kind of feel like I¡¯ve earned it.¡± He tilted the hat in a funny way that made Rose weakly smile.


    ¡°That look becomes you better. So how did you know about the witch, from the Frost?¡± Ivashko was trying to steer the conversation as he let Rose begin to steer the boat.


    ¡°No, I learned about her from another boy.¡± Rose was testing the limits of the boat to make sure what he said was true and if that same truth would apply to her. Unfortunately, she was also newly testing her skills as a mariner. Probably because he was insulted by being called a boy the young man began talking to her in a lecturing tone.


    ¡°Not frightened at all about this? You really are determined aren¡¯t you? Don¡¯t you realize this is Baba Yaga you are dealing with? She isn¡¯t just a witch she is the witch of all witches. She taps into true demon power devouring the flesh of children.¡±


    ¡°Uh huh,¡± Rose was angry because the boat was going one way, while she was turning it another. ¡°Why won¡¯t it¡­¡± she gritted after a time of him watching her struggle.


    ¡°We are getting close to the shallows and the spell will not allow us farther.¡± Ivashko shook his head.


    ¡°Listen,¡± He grabbed the rudder from her. ¡°Do you realize just by talking about her you probably made her ears burn. She goes after any child near who speaks of her.¡±


    ¡°Wait, any child who speaks of her?¡± Rose paled,


    ¡°Yes.¡± Ivashko saw her looking around frantically, ¡°Are you finally, scared?¡±


    ¡°I made all the children talk about her today. Will she go after all of them?¡± Rose looked at Ivashko intensely.


    ¡°No, she wouldn¡¯t come after all of them in one night. Her stomach is not that engorged yet. I would say she would go after the one who spoke up about her first.¡±


    There was a splash and Rose was in the water.


    ¡°Hey what are you doing I just saved you!¡± Ivashko stood in the rocking boat. Rose did not hear him all she focused on was the shore. She wasn¡¯t a fast swimmer with all her clothing on and dark floating hair began to follow her. Ivashko cursed and flung his fishing rod with a practiced precision, it landed just where he wanted and he yanked back to hook the creature¡¯s neck. This confused and startled it. It splashed around in one place for quite awhile. Rose was given a good lead until she began to run out of breath from the weight of her clothes, the great golden fish gilded next to her. She grabbed its fins and in moments the beach was before her. She let go when she felt rocks beneath her feet and struggled on and up out of the lake.


    ¡°Rose!¡± Ivashko shouted from his boat. ¡°You are mad!¡±


    ¡°Come on!¡± she turned and waved watching him struggle. White human hands were shooting up out of the water. Beneath something was wrapping the line tighter around it¡¯s self as it spun making horrible screeching sounds.


    ¡°You go and never come back!¡± Ivashko shouted his pole bending until it snapped.


    Rose hesitated a bit, turned and ran as he fell back laughing into his boat. ¡°And here I thought I had too much sun!¡±

 Drenched

    Chapter Drenched


    Hansel balanced on one foot upon a small piece of fur he had ripped from his vest. He used the rest of it to wrap around his face as he grew and stretched it to a strange position through the bars so that he could place his swiveling ear to the wall while he hummed. He had scratched a symbol into the wall with his nails and he tapped upon it listening until finally it gave a great shutter that vibrated with the force of his tune.


    Hearing footsteps above, he pulled back and threw the vest back on the cage floor, wrapping the little fur around his wrist. The door started to creak open and the trembling stopped, water began to soak into the symbols.  The Dwarf appeared at the head of the stairs. ¡°What are you up to?¡± He looked cock-eyed at the Wolf.


    ¡°Me?¡± Hansel squatted with a most insincere smile.


    ¡°No tricks today boy. No wily schemes of escape. I¡¯ll not tolerate dissension while in a mood this foul.¡± He grunted as he threw his tools for working upon the table then began to stoke the fire.


    ¡°You are always in a foul mood when she comes expecting progress.¡± Hansel picked at his teeth. Baba Yaga had already tasted him this morning and her reproach like his flavor was bitter.


    ¡°Yes well with that much silver about your not ageing as fast as you should. She begins to suspect the human origins of your blood and since you won¡¯t be forthright with your name or heritage¡­¡± The dwarf placed a pot above the fire.


    While he rambled about the methods they were going to use to trace his lineage. Hansel spat out a tooth into his palm, cupping it quickly he whispered to it until it turned red in his hands.


    The dwarf put on great gauntlets and moved the cage along its chain link rail upon the ceiling so it was closer to the fire.


    ¡°I¡¯ll need a bit of tissue.¡± The dwarf turned for a blade on the table and Hansel threw the tooth in the fire. Holding out his hand through the bars as another finger was removed. ¡°Did it ever occur to you I¡¯m already older than I look?¡± Hansel gritted as he sawed.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    ¡°Boy in human terms I¡¯m sure you are ancient and no doubt the fact that you were made so young does make for a fast healing skin what has that to do with silver not affecting your miserable hide?¡± The dwarf spat and threw the finger into the pot, below the fire exploded him across the room. Hansel caught his hat and pulled bits of the straw from brim and tucked them away in his hair as his cage swung back and forth. He cast the hat aside again.


    The dwarf leaped up raving, red in the face and blackened everywhere else his beard had a great singe upon it. Well not a great singe. Only three inches, that was a mile where a dwarf was concerned.


    Hansel wrinkled his nose, ¡°Ugh that burnt hair smells awful you really ought to wash it.¡± At that moment the opposite wall crumbled as water exploded through it, several hidden dwarf doors, big and small were revealed by water gushing through the cracks. From extreme pressure, rocks went flying at the little man as he was sprayed to the point of collapsing; then as he came up sputtering water some of the dwarf¡¯s treasures flew out while the rest of it poured out onto the floor.


    ¡°You pest! You flea bitten mongrel! I¡¯ll kill you for ruining my collections and flooding my caves!¡± The dwarf leapt upon the cage with a little dagger and the weight of him lowered the chain causing the cage to crash to the floor with a splash. Hansel laughed at the little man like a child at a puppet show moving with speed out of reach on the opposite side of the cage from his stabs.


    ¡°What goes on here?¡± Ivan bellowed stomping down to the foot of the stairs. The dwarf lost color and quickly jumped down from the cage. Hansel noticed the dwarf put his boot on top of one of the sacks of treasure.


    ¡°He means to flood the whole room and drown me! He has ruined my cellar!¡± The dwarf sneered.


    ¡°That is your fault for putting him so close to the walls. I warned you,¡± Ivan¡¯s great shadow cast over Hansel making his eyes glow. ¡°Playful and clever¡­¡±


    ¡°Shall I leave him in here; to drown until he dies as punishment?!¡± The dwarf had spittle flying from his mouth as he spoke.


    ¡°Why it will only be a sleep death which to him would be welcome rest. Besides do you want him to swallow anything of value that floats his way?¡± Ivan warned and the dwarf yelped scooping up more items. Hansel noted that when the dwarf lifted his foot a little he saw broken white little statues of stone in the pouch.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take him above briefly, clean up this mess and make his cage smaller!¡± Ivan ordered. He reached through and after a brief violent struggle was holding Hansel by the neck with the strength he had acquired by eating his kind. He clipped the silver chain tightly around, this made Hansel turn into a wolf. Ivan opened the cage guiding the great canine to the surface. Which in the end was all Hansel had really wanted after years of rotting in a cellar.

 Brief Reunion

    Chapter Brief Reunion


    Rose watched the great white wolf dog growl at the cat who merely hissed at him as he was led by Ivan. The latter kicked the dog in retaliation. The dog yelped, soon recovering as he was strapped to a tree in the sunlight. Ivan muttered something and he lay very content not too far away from Rose. Rose had miscalculated her trail, somehow ending up higher by the miller¡¯s place. If her Father or the Miller caught her the consequences could be dire. She could not risk being locked up tonight if the witch went after Emilyan.


    Ivan already seemed aware that something was out there. Rose noticed his tell tale signs of observing without looking as if he was doing so. She tried to let the fear sink out of her as she controlled her breathing. Then not far off in the distance came the roar of a bear and Ivan took up his axe and barreled through the hedges. Rose prayed a little thank-you to Frost and decided that was her chance. She waited until he was presumably far enough and stepped into the road creeping by silently. She heard heavy jingling from inside the house and ducked behind some trees.


    Out came Miller with a huge pile of sparkling items. Rose¡¯s jaw dropped to see all the fine objects he had hoarded over the years. He too gazed around suspiciously. Rose ducked out of sight before his eyes rolled over to her side.


    ¡°Just left you out here did he?!¡± grumbled Miller , setting all of his sparkling items out in the sun to dry and inspect.


    ¡°After warning me about all the trouble you cause, as if I didn¡¯t know! Well if you escape it is his hide! I¡¯ve got more important things to tend too!¡± He darted back into the mill house kicking the door wider against the inside wall with a slam as he went. Rose¡¯s heart was pounding as she leaned out to look; she was greeted with a big white panting muzzle. She gasped and backed away, covering her mouth to hold in the exclamation. The dog which to her still looked like a wolf only whimpered and pawed a little. It was ready to bark.


    ¡°No please!¡± She clamped its mouth shut with her arms. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I must not get caught. I¡¯m not supposed to be out here.¡±


    The wolf¡¯s head was too big to hold and it slid out of her grasp. It only pawed at its nose and snorted though. Still the jingling of the chain was loud, she motioned for it to be still and amazingly it listened. Rose should have paid more attention to the abrupt obedience however in the back of her mind she knew her Father had been training the animal for months.She was more concerned with slipping away past the mill house without getting caught. The dwarf came out swaggering with a heavier load than before he dumped it all down on the ground before him and immediately after that began to count.


    Rose leaned her head back against the bark of the tree and rolled her eyes. The dog was sitting far enough back to perceive her on his right. To the Dwarf he merely looked to be sitting next to a tree. Rose looked over to her new faithful pet in despair. Hansel blinked his eyes at her, trying to get her to notice the colors. As always she was under too much duress. After a while he began twitching his tale as he looked up at the roof top. Birds were twittering there amongst themselves.


    Well he had not intended she be here but why not? The voice was very difficult to control in the body of the beast. Most Kerwolves did not master it until they were full grown. Yet Hansel had spent more time out in the wild than among men; he could mimic other noises. Rose looked over astonished: bird sounds whistled from the mouth of the dog next to her! It jerked its head in little motions rather in likeness of a bird when the dwarf looked up he went silent, still.Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    ¡°Here, were you making that ruckus?¡± Miller scowled.


    Rose did not know what possessed her at that moment. She cupped her hands over her mouth and whistled some of the calls the dog had just done. She had been taught long ago by her Father. Seeing that the dog was heavily panting while the same noises alighted from beyond the tree the miller grumbled and went back to his counting. In the meantime one little bird landed on Hansel¡¯s head. It plucked out the straw from his fur and ascended. Rose did not understand any of this. All she knew was that she was madly whistling with a dog and getting nowhere for it continued to whistle at intervals and she echoed him.


    ¡°Shut up birds!¡± shouted Miller , not looking up from his work.


    Rose leaned her head back exasperated. What were they doing? This wasn¡¯t annoying him enough to make him go inside. She looked up at the branches above her and gaped. There were at least five birds or more, perhaps on every branch. She looked over to the white dog that winked. Her calls had never had such an effect before.


    ¡°I said be quiet!¡± Miller looked up and his eyes fixated on the tree.


    His head turned sharply to the Wolf. ¡°Why you little¡­¡±


    Hansel stood up and barked tail wagging with aggression and in formation the birds descended at the little man. Rose marveled horrified as she spied Miller defending his eyes from the attack, bits of his beard being plucked away. Should she aid him? No, this was her chance to sneak away. She began to move a little when the dog put a firm paw down on her cape to hold her. A great many birds began taking off with some of the items on the ground. In groups or singularly they started to fly off, immediately the Miller cried running into the house.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I must go, to get back to the village¡­¡± Rose whispered as the white dog shook his head.


    Out came the dwarf on a rampage with a club his movements were quicker than that of the beating wings around him and indeed he struck down and stunned every bird in his immediate range. The others took notice quickly and fled. Luckily many were already aloft with his treasures. These did not keep in formation separating to every corner of the skies. The dwarf pulled at his beard in despair causing several hairs to come out. He stomped and stomped until the ground began to shake! Afterwards, the earth settled. He threw his hairs into the wind watching them carefully. Rose noted they alighted upon a north wind. He went in a different direction then whence they blew running off.


    The dog removed his paw and nodded. After a hug Rose whispered, ¡°My thanks.¡± She tried to undo the chain from the tree after all this dog seemed strangely intelligent to be kicked around by her father. It did not budge and he just pushed her back with his head growling as if telling her to go quickly. Rose did not hesitate any longer; her day had become too strange to question. She got up and began to run through the yard. Hansel bared her no ill will for not releasing him. Ivan had cast a spell that had him sealed to the tree anyhow.


    The great sparkle of the goods seemed to pull her eyes as well as her stride toward them. In a moment she was before a most interesting turquoise hook, large and twisted. She stooped down and picked it up. Hansel barked at her to get a move on for Ivan would not ignore such trembling unless he were in battle and a dwarf¡¯s vengeance for stolen treasure would be great. The poor mortal lass seemed already enchanted simply by the glamour left behind by the little man¡¯s touch. She spun the hook in her hands. Hansel snorted for he had intended to save his last trick for a more vital time. She needed a shock to break her concentration.


    The little swallow that had taken the straw had woven it back onto Miller''s roof. Taking a deep breath Hansel howled forth a small cyclone. The little man had only put up protective wards below in his cave which had taken Hansel months to break. This human hut meant nothing to him. And so he had neglected its protection. The signature of Hansel¡¯s howl was the key that unlocked the spell and as the straw arched, as did the whole building top until it crumbled with a crash.


    Rose¡¯s reverie ended as the building first slanted and creaked. She moved far back just before everything came down and as the debris and dust flew up before her she ran from it yet was still partially enveloped as she went. When the dust settled Hansel was also filthy yet very pleased to see the entrance to his current domicile was entirely blocked. He stretched out enjoying the warm sunshine.

 Bait the hook

    Chapter Bait the hook


    When Rose arrived back at Sadko¡¯s house wheezing with exhaustion she quickly took back the broom from Martha knocked down on her side, perfectly frozen in her last position. ¡°Did you feel those tremors Martha? They very much startled me.¡± Martha blinked, looking around confused.


    ¡°I do believe you bumped your head.¡± She cupped her hand over the back of the little girl¡¯s turban for there was some blood that leaked through. Martha pushed her back and seeing one of Sadko¡¯s hats she placed it over her turban defensively.


    Rose frowned with concern and said decisively, ¡°I shall fix you up later.¡± She said this swiftly, for she saw her Father through the open door making his way up the hill. Noting that her clothing was covered with dirt and hay she threw on one of Sadko¡¯s big buttoned coats.


    Ivan entered with menace in his eye. The Frost had escaped him and he suspected his daughter had been in the woods. She was splashing her face and wetting her hair with water from the kitchen pot.


    ¡°Indeed Father we have had quite the scare, the whole floor started shaking!¡± Rose helped Martha to stand up.


    ¡°Have you been outside of this hut?¡± Ivan asked Martha not Rose and his eyes were suspicious. Martha thought for a moment, and then shook her head.


    ¡°You have not accomplished much here.¡± Ivan observed,


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I think we did play dress up more than work today. We shall do more tomorrow.¡± Rose bowed her head obediently.


    Ivan suspected but he could not prove that this did look like a normal scene he would come upon when the girls were playing. ¡°Well go wash up together than and start dinner.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Father , come Martha!¡± Rose smiled and grabbed up her companion''s hand and the broom running out of the room with both of them.


    ¡°Oh dear me, Martha,¡± Rose pouted once they got half way down the hill. ¡°I really don¡¯t want to take this coat home for Father will never wear it. I think I shall give it to one of the young boys to keep until they grow into it. Martha tugged her sleeve and pointed to the lodge.


    ¡°Yes I know we are to begin cooking. Will you please begin without me?¡± Rose entreated and Martha smiled because Rose was always making such excuses.


    The children were coming home with their parents. Emilyan and his old Father the Tanner seemed headed in the direction of the lodge. Rose tugged the old man aside.


    ¡°Sir, I would like to give Emilyan this coat that Sadko left for him. I don¡¯t want the other children to get jealous. May I enter his room so I can hang it up for him?¡±


    The Tanner looked very pleased, ¡°I was unaware the merchant had been fond of my boy. Well I don¡¯t think it would do him harm to show you the way. I don¡¯t want to miss your Father¡¯s hunting tale for today.¡±


    Rose took Emilyan¡¯s quivering hand. When they got far enough he said with narrowed eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk to you about monsters anymore.¡±


    ¡°How did you know?¡± Rose asked, startled.


    ¡°Know what? I just don¡¯t want to talk about them anymore.¡± He kicked the dirt as they walked.


    ¡°Oh Emilyan I don¡¯t want to frighten you. I just want you to know I believe you.¡± Rose ruffled his hair with her hand.


    ¡°That frightens me.¡± Emilyan grumbled.


    ¡°Listen tonight I don¡¯t want you to be in your bed. I want you to sleep somewhere else.¡±


    ¡°Where am I going too?¡± Emilyan whined, and she quickly covered his mouth.


    ¡°Anywhere as long as you trade with me and I can sleep in your bed.¡±


    ¡°We are going to fool my parents? How will I keep warm?¡± Of all the other little boys Emilyan was the most scittish yet curious.


    She took off the coat and draped it over him. ¡°There better?¡±


    ¡°No, I may be scared in my bed. At least it¡¯s my bed. Everywhere else is scarier.¡± They had entered the hata. He showed her into his bedroom and wildly jumped on top of it.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    Out of the pocket popped the bright colored hook. It landed on the bed with a bounce.


    ¡°Careful!¡± Rose shouted and scooped it up before his foot could land on it.


    ¡°Oh what¡¯s that?¡± The little boy was suddenly mesmerized.


    ¡°Nothing,¡± Rose put the hook behind her back.


    ¡°Let me see! Let me see!¡± Emilyan jumped down and Rose continued to spin to keep him from the object.


    ¡°It¡¯s only an old fishing hook.¡± She shrugged,


    ¡°I saw it! It looks new and shiny.¡± Emilyan folded his arms assertively like his Father.


    Rose suddenly got an idea. It was an idea she did not like given her new fond attachment but protecting the children was more important.


    ¡°Emilyan, I¡¯m going to go down and finish cooking if you follow everything I say I will give you this hook.¡±


    ¡°What must I do?¡± Emilyan licked his lips.


    ¡°Why, sleep above the stove tonight. The new brick one that was built in the kitchen. It has a nice wide shelf above it and you will stay nice and warm. Do this and the hook will be yours.¡± The child¡¯s bright eyes followed the object as she pulled it out and continued¡­


    ¡°Just pretend to be sick and I¡¯ll say I¡¯m taking you home. Then I will get under the covers in your place.¡± Emilyan thought about it. As long as he wasn¡¯t outside in the dark this plan sounded fine. And he was old enough to know how to keep a fire going if he needed to.


    ¡°Okay, he nodded.¡± And they shook on it.


    Rose hurried to the kitchens and helped Martha to finish dinner as soon as possible. Marousha, among the other women, was startled with her new fervor. Rose snacked excessively as she worked, not that she was truly hungry. Even after the days draining exercises she was too nervous. Still she knew it was important to keep her strength up and more importantly to keep up appearances. She kept handing Martha food too.


    ¡°You know you¡¯ll get too busy serving and then you will hardly eat anything.¡± Martha shrugged at her with a blank stare continuing to eat anything she was handed.


    When they did enter to serve, which to Rose seemed to take an eternity. She overheard Tanner attempting to speak to Ivan in low tones which of course was drawing more attention as others stopped to listen in. ¡°So you see Sir it is an excellent match is it not? He is but a few years her junior by comparison to the other boys and she would never have to leave the village.¡±


    ¡°A few!¡± someone scoffed until Tanner glared at him drinking out of his cup.


    ¡°This would make Emilyan my selected heir would it not? A heavy burden to be headman, give the boy some time to grow and I shall dwell on the matter.¡± Ivan¡¯s hand brushed over Rose¡¯s as she set out drinks.


    ¡°She is the only reminder I have of her mother. Her happiness means everything to me.¡± Rose felt a little thrill of pride at this compliment. And a momentary lapse of guilt for what she was about to risk.


    When all the plates were out she excused herself to do dishes. During this chore the temptation to look at the back door frame to possibly glimpse a set of white fingers came up as it did almost every night. Emilyan today had especially reminded her of him. The absence of them once more made her more resolved. The task of clean up as always was daunting however she was not so little anymore and collected everyone¡¯s plates even before they wished it at times. She finished as everyone sat around drinking and interrupted Ivan just as he had begun his greatest drinking story.


    ¡°And the demon bear landed on me full with his belly and tumbled me twice over!¡±


    The party gasped and Rose interrupted to everyone¡¯s disappointment.


    ¡°Father, I think I shall take Emilyan home. His belly aches.¡± On cue the little boy moaned.


    Tanner nudged Ivan with his elbow and winked. Irritated Ivan waved his assent,


    ¡°Alright then go to bed with Martha.¡± He ordered, Martha had been collecting cups immediately dropping her tray on the table following them.


    ¡°Martha, we ought to stop by our hata first. I want to take one of Mother¡¯s decorations to Sadko¡¯s. Rose remarked cheerily, grabbing the broom she left in the kitchen. Martha nodded, and when they entered Rose pointed to the pretty woven reef above their bed. Martha generously got on the bed first to get it down. ¡°Do not squeeze it with your hand, it is fragile!¡± Rose¡¯s exclamation made her pause.


    ¡°Here hook it through the center with this.¡± Rose handed up the broom and Martha smiled as she took it. She froze right where she stood.


    ¡°What did you do to her?¡± Emilyan backed away when Rose pushed her over onto the bed.


    ¡°Oh this is a little game we played earlier today.¡± Rose said with a laugh though inside she feared she was hurting Martha again.


    ¡°Whoever holds the broom must be the most still no matter what. I¡¯m going to dress her up like me and put her under the covers. I bet she¡¯ll get uncomfortable and move.¡±


    Emilyan clapped with admiration as Rose took off Martha''s hat and threw her hood over her. Then more covers. She then fixed the blankets on the other side to look like another person and set the hat on top of it like it was Martha.


    ¡°She is really good, she hasn¡¯t moved at all except to breathe, even when you covered up the broom!¡±


    ¡°Yes she always beats me at this game.¡± Rose pretended to be jealous. She whispered in his ear. ¡°Let¡¯s sneak out. She will never know.¡± Emilyan giggled loudly as they left had Martha not been under spell all would have surely been for naught.


    Rose managed to hush him before they entered the kitchens. ¡°Emilyan you must hide behind the spices until everyone in the other room leaves. Then you can climb atop that shelf if you wish and sleep.


    ¡°Why do you want to be so badly in my bed?¡± Emilyan asked.


    ¡°Because Emilyan I¡¯m going to kill the demon that lurks near your room at night.¡± Rose told him boldly for at least one person would know her good deed if she failed.


    ¡°You must not Rose. You could not.¡± Emilyan looked at his shoes. A sound in the other room made her ferret the boy behind barrels.


    ¡°Emilyan it will be alright. I am a huntress, well trained by my Father.¡± This reminded Rose that she must gather weapons in the forge before sneaking into his home.


    ¡°No I mean you will not be able to because you know her. She is a woman in our village¡­she¡­I¡¯ve seen her change before and you¡­you would not believe me anymore¡­¡± He looked down to his shoes again, his eyes getting damp as he stammered.


    ¡°Hush Emilyan, I told you I believe you.¡± Rose pulled him to her in a hug. ¡°You will be protected so long as I live.¡± She kissed his forehead then scrambled out to get weapons from the forge.

 Witch vs witts

    Chapter Witch versus Wits


    Baba Yaga waited in the shadows dressed as black as the darkness. She was watching the parents peeking in on their boy through the door swaying together.


    ¡°There he is my little future head man.¡± Tanner chuckled merrily. The boy never even stirred; he slept so sound. Baba Yaga snorted that by tomorrow the old fool would never remember even having a son. One spin of her mortar and pestle would see to that. She waited in the hall, looking to the window, only a sliver of moon the way she liked it. Utter shadow everywhere. All day her ears had been burning to madness, well as far as madness could infect the mad. She was certain this child had been the start of it. She would feast upon him. As the adult snores grew heavy, so too did her footsteps as she swept into the room.


    She shut the door with a wave of her hand and caused the dresser to block the door. She wanted to relish this: the terror¡­.. She paused to smell the room and was suddenly confused when her granddaughter¡¯s scent hit her. Then her rational mind reminded her to ignore her strong demon senses. Her dove had watched Rose give the boy that coat. And of course Ivan had said she had tucked the boy in.


    This did remind her however, that she would have to lie to her Granddaughter. Her power was growing and so the spell of forgetting would not continue to be as effective on her. Baba Yaga muttered low to herself in an uncontrollable manner.


    ¡°Tell her the Tanner¡¯s boy died in his sleep from fever and that the Tanner blames her for the cursed coat and so he nor his wife will never again acknowledge having a son in her presence.¡±


    That might work for a time. Hopefully time enough until Rose¡¯s full bloom of red when the blood would begin. It should be soon. She was turning that ripeness of age. Baba Yaga would be young and beautiful, just as she was when she took over the Canaanite Queen who worshiped her demon form and had opened the gateway through fiendish shadow seeking her knowledge.


    Untying the rope belt around her middle she caused it to wind around the bed slowly of its own accord. Each hair on her head stood on end as well as the lengthened and unknotted tassels on her shall. Her golden jaws snapped together in anticipation. Over the bed and child the rope wound tight.


    ¡°Your diaphragm is squeezing and you cannot breathe, try to give me the pleasure of some struggle, my doll.¡± Baba Yaga slid her hands together and the rope slid back and forth still squeezing around the child¡¯s middle. Any other child would have woken up already for she had not been discreet in her entrance knowing the parents would already be slumbering. The rope only continued to dig deeper and deeper into the blankets and bed.


    Rose watched from behind an antler rack made of skins built to hold extra pelts. The light was so dim she could barely make out the outline of the large figure. Indeed it had startled her to hear the dresser against the door. This was followed succinctly by the flash of a frightening face that seemed suspended in the air like a floating head. A brief glint near the window off the giant golden jaws showed pinched cheeks covered with large leather straps that pushed up a huge nose with abnormally long nostril slits underneath two beady, ember eyes. The face was gone in a moment. The figure moved to the bed back through darkness.


    Rose readied her weapons. She ducked down low. She could hear the creature muttering not its words over the creaking and popping of its mouth. Upon the floor Rose saw the shadow of something snakelike extend from her arm. She heard the bed creaking and rocking and the sliding of sheets. Rose was relieved she had changed her mind about sleeping in it when she had found herself getting drowsy waiting for attack. A horrible voice began to whisper from the darkness. It sounded like the voice of a crow if a crow could speak.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ¡°Where are you hiding pretty? Not in your bed tonight I see. Did you feel me coming? Did you sense your doom?¡± The last two sentences echoed. There was scratching in all four corners of the room and heavy breathing under the bed. The window opened of its own accord and a distant cackle as if from a dream came from outside. The room was empty. Rose sat for a long while in darkness after gripping tighter the carefully selected weapon in her hand.


    A squeal worse than that of a pig sounded as the fur coats were swept aside by two oak like hands with brown curled nails. Rose¡¯s shoulders were clasped by them as an open metal maw made straight for her upturned face. A child is what Baba Yaga expected to find, not an armed one.


    Rose cast upward her mother¡¯s sickle sharpened to perfection to split the thinnest blade of grass and with a great clang it grazed off the golden teeth and slit across the witch¡¯s shoulder. Rose swiped horizontal only catching air as the dark lady moved back.


    This did not deter Rose, her blood was up. She put forth a fearsome cry as she raised one of her Father¡¯s hunting spears which he had discarded after it had broken in half too small. Yet for Rose it was just the right width and balance, dropping her first weapon she charged low and fast. Upon recognition of the voice Baba Yaga was held with shock, plowed into with such force that even as the spear entered her gut she was lifted off the ground and thrown back through the window. Rose let go, surprised by her own strength and cruelty during this moment, black hair slid over the sill.


    Tanner burst into the room with his wife. ¡°Rose what goes on here? Why are you covered in blood?¡± Rose was shaking with excitement of course also with the knowledge that she had attempted to kill something as intelligent and cunning as herself. She had come a long way from simple rabbits.


    Tanner moved to the window thinking of his boy. Even as Rose shouted, ¡°No, the witch is still out there!¡± She expected at any moment the hag to leap up off the ground.


    ¡°A witch!¡± exclaimed his wife who was distraught and pulled back the sheets to find nothing. ¡°Where is my boy?¡±


    ¡°He is safe.¡± Rose assured her. ¡°I have hidden him.¡±


    ¡°Something dark and formidable moves swiftly across the green, there it is in the woods.¡± Tanner turned on his heels. ¡°I shall go fetch Ivan.¡± He grabbed Rose¡¯s hand and pulled her into tow. ¡°You shall explain to us what you were doing in here!¡±


    Rose explained that Emilyan had talked to her about the noises at his window and that she in turn had switched places with him. Time being pressed she omitted anything else leading up to the events she described in the room. Her mind was a bit disoriented even though it happened only moments ago, was this the effect of witch? When asked to describe she could only remember the snake-like shadow moving toward the bed and the black tendril of hair that slid over the sill.


    She had just finished when they arrived on Ivan¡¯s step when immediately he came through his door. ¡°Rose what have you done!¡± he bellowed, for he saw she was covered in blood not her own and Tanner''s wife weeping.


    The Tanner found the boldness to interrupt Ivan rapidly and loudly giving explanations so that the neighbor''s hatas lit up from his exclamations. His wife no less began to run around waking everyone who had not roused crying warning: ¡°Guard your children! Protect their lives! A witch prowls among us!¡±


    Ivan scolded, ¡°Rose you should have come to me with these suspicions.¡±


    ¡°The child did act foolishly Ivan yet certainly you agree we must pursue this fiend!¡± Roars of ascent came from the men in opposition which proved startling due to their usual complacent and fearful manners. Ivan¡¯s eyes grew wide and hollow as he looked out beyond them into the night. ¡°We shall go, gather up your torches and weapons! Women gather all the wood you can in the center of the village! Keep your children close!