Once upon a time…
Drawn from: Polish, Danilov Ballads, Mentor, something suitable with theme. Told in English.
You find yourself in a small village surrounded by dense, whispering woods. The sky is often grey, and the wind carries scents of pine and earth. One evening, a stranger visits the village square, speaking of a hidden treasure deep in the forest, guarded by a fierce beast. The elders shake their heads, but curiosity grips your heart.
With a sturdy stick and a loaf of bread, you set out at dawn. The path is wild, with shadows playing tricks on your eyes. The trees seem alive, their rustling a language you almost understand. You walk until the sun hides behind clouds, then you hear it—a low growl.
You stand still as the beast emerges, a creature of legend, its eyes burning like fire. Remembering tales from your youth, you speak a rhyme taught long ago. The beast pauses, then steps aside, revealing a chest buried in roots.
Inside, you find not gold, but seeds of a rare flower. You return to the village, planting them. By spring, the flowers bloom, bringing beauty, and your bravery becomes a story told for ages.
Did it land?