He who wishes for something, be it a relative’s recovery from disease, or perhaps a wrongdoing being forgotten, is faced with two possibilities:

~acquiescing in fate

~partaking in Bönen, an ancient annual tradition performed on midsummer’s eve

Disclaimer: Bönen by no means guarantees a wish will be fulfilled. Its outcome is dependent on, amongst other things, the nature of the wish in question.

Seldom are those who attempt Bönen. Should you do so, heed what follows. Any deviation will result in some unsuccessful Bönen…

 

 

Bönen

 

In the barren, northernmost part of the realm, where the wind blows not, lies the Black Forest.

Through day and night, plains and valleys you shall ride, such that you reach it under the midnight sun, in the embers of the aforementioned festivity.

Midsummer. One you will not spend reveling in dance, surrounded by those you hold dear.

A small sacrifice for that which you seek.

Note: Journeying to the Black Forest at any other time would be most unwise. Indeed, this is not covered by our ancestors’ pact with Kvinnan.

Make certain your horse has gorged itself prior to your departure, and that you carry with you these items:

-a bag

-the carcass of a sizeable bird; geese are said to be favorable

Note: Omitting to bring the latter would be deemed insolent.

Once arrived, tether your companion to a trunk, and go the rest of the way afoot.

You may observe creatures akin to hares, watching as you enter the wood.

Ignore them. They are extensions of Kvinnan.

Proceed until all patches of sky wither, and kneel as you await Kvinnan. From between the trees she will eventually come forth.

Note: Occasionally, she will crawl down from a nearby tree. Expect something… large.

Never, irrespective of how long she ogles at you, look directly at Kvinnan.

This has not been agreed upon in the pact, and constitutes a loophole she can exploit.

Next, place your offering of flesh upon the earth as she draws nears.

You may find the ensuing moments somewhat disturbing.

Once Kvinnan has… finished, you are to present her with your outstretched hands, cupped.

After inspection, Kvinnan will almost surely regurgitate into them. Take this as your cue to leave.

Note: Merely once has someone returning from Bönen without hands been documented.

Exit the forest in a normal manner whence you came. Do not glance behind you as you walk.

Kvinnan moves silently.

In various accounts, past survivors participants recount hearing a feminine voice as they mounted their steeds. Do not let yourself get caught off guard by this eventuality, no matter how distressing.

It is an imitation.

Once home, and not before, you will find some fruit in your bag. Usually an apple.

Behold a vibrant, glossy skin, and your wish has been granted!

One plagued by maggots signifies the reverse is true.

You may not try Bönen twice.

Note: Infrequently, the fruit is red in shade. If this befalls you, your body will rest come the new year.