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Known to some as the Master of the Forest, and to others as simply a forest demon, the Leshiy is the protecter of animals and a shape shifter who had a liking for playing tricks on people and leading hunters astray. Of the many things the Leshiy could shapeshift into, his favorite forms include a bear, wolf, raven, flaming fir tree, or as a human who sometimes had horns and cloven feet. In his human form he is sometimes said to have no facial hair (even eyelashes or brows) but had long gray hair on his head and bright green eyes, while other sources say he had pale eyes and was covered completely in hair from head to foot. Among his many descriptions, it seems that the only thing that is generally agreed upon is that he is an old man and very unkempt looking. Apart from changing shape, the Leshiy also liked to change his size; while he was often small enough to hide behind blades of grass, he can change instantly to tower over even the tallest of men! Many people feared the Leshii but the way to their hearts are through their stomach; to appease or befriend a Leshiy one need only leave it an offering of food on a log for them. Their favorite foods include eggs, pancakes, cookies and sweets.
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