Dodola

In the time past; in the old country; in the years when winter was stubborn and long lasting, refusing to yield and give in to spring; at the last Friday of March, Dodola would come to the village. Her companions, the black forest folk, that the villagers simply called 'night visitors', would light up great fires and set up a large bell at the temple of Yarilo - the young lord of fire and warmth. We all knew that sleepless days are ahead, and the whole village would gather at the temple. The night visitors would give out strong tea they prepared from the bark of red birch, and Dodola would dance, and sing and rock the bell, all to keep the villagers awake for four days. For if you were to fall asleep before the sleepless days end, Mora the hag godless of winter, cold and nightmares would come and take your spirit and you would never wake, but sleepwalk forevermore- and become a creature with an icicle for a hart.

Done for an online contest.