Leshy

Historical Background
More commonly spelled Leshii or Leszi, in Slavic folklore, it was a group of woodland spirits that would protect forests and the animals that dwelled therein. They were said to be able to take the form of any plant or animal, as well as human form. When in human form, they resembled peasants, only they had glowing eyes and backwards shoes. Some tales depicted them as a giant, talking mushroom. They appear as tall men sometimes covered in black hair with hooves and horns in tales after the arrival of Christianity. Anyone who befriended a Leshy would be taught magic. Farmers and shepherds frequently made pacts with the Leshy to protect their crops and herd. They were slightly mischievous in their ends to protect the woods, such as hiding any woodchopper's axe they came across. Leshy would die in October with the Autumn and revive in April with the Spring. Leshonki (more commonly spelled Leshonky) are the children of Leshy and Leshachikha are the wives of the Leshy.