One fine afternoon, at the beginning of fall, Elowen decided to visit an old friend —Belsnickel, the crotchety, fur-clad woodsman who lived in a secluded cabin high in the German mountains. Belsnickel was known for his surly demeanor and love of solitude, but Elowen had known him during one of his rare, more amiable moments.

On this particular day, she loaded her wagon with preserves, jars of honey, and an assortment of tools for cutting firewood, then set out on the arduous journey through the forest to Belsnickel’s cabin.

As she ascended the steep and winding path through the dense woods, Elowen couldn’t help but be amazed by the tranquil beauty of the landscape. The trees whispered their secrets, and the air was filled with the scent of pine and earth. Soon, she arrived at the sturdy cabin, smoke spiraling from its chimney into the crisp, autumn air.

Elowen knocked on the cabin door, which creaked open to reveal Belsnickel himself—with a stern gaze and a long, unkempt beard. He stared down at Elowen with a mixture of surprise and irritation.

“Ms. Eldridge,” he grumbled, “what brings you to my cabin on such a warm summer’s day?”

Elowen handed him a jar of honey and a crocheted blanket she had brought as a gift. “I’ve come to help you prepare for the winter, Belsnickel. It won’t be long before the cold sets in, and I thought you might appreciate the company.”

Belsnickel eyed the honey with a hint of gratitude in his stern expression. “Your honey is always welcome,” he admitted, though he couldn’t quite bring himself to smile.

Elowen smiled and gestured towards the wagon filled with firewood-cutting tools. “I’ve also brought everything we need to cut firewood. We can work together to ensure you have enough to last through the winter.”

Belsnickel, although not one for many words, grunted his agreement. He might have had a gruff exterior, but he knew the importance of preparation for the harsh months ahead.

As they worked side by side, chopping and stacking wood, Elowen took the opportunity to remind Belsnickel of an upcoming event. “Belsnickel, I wanted to make sure you know that you’re always welcome to join us for the Yule celebration at my home.”

Belsnickel paused in his work, his gaze softening slightly. “Yule, you say? You’re still celebrating it.”

Elowen nodded, her voice filled with warmth. “It’s a time for warmth, camaraderie, and good cheer. You’d be an excellent addition to our gathering.”

Belsnickel returned to his task but spoke in a grumbling tone. “I’ll come for Yule Eve, but I won’t overstay my welcome. I’m a man who likes his solitude.”

Elowen accepted his answer with understanding. “That’s perfectly fine. We’ll be delighted to have you for as long as you’re willing to stay.”

As the sun dipped below the mountains, they continued to work in companionable silence, preparing Belsnickel’s cabin for the harsh winter ahead. Elowen appreciated Belsnickel’s independence and his willingness to share a small part of himself with her. And she knew that, in her own peculiar way, she had brought a touch of kindness and warmth to the life of a man who had long preferred the solitude of the mountains.