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Deep in the ancient forests and icy lakes of Russia, guardian spirits and monsters have protected the land and its people for centuries. This week, we venture into the mysterious world of Slavic folklore to discover creatures both terrifying and protective.

The journey begins with Dr. Kitsune sharing a hilariously embarrassing tale from his high school Russian class, where a linguistic misstep with an elderly Russian woman left the entire class in stitches—except for him. His inadvertent use of the informal "you" form prompted her to quip, "My young man, we haven't even slept together yet!" This moment perfectly captures our blend of cultural exploration and personal storytelling that makes each episode uniquely engaging.

Saoirse transforms to introduce us to the Leshy, the unpredictable guardian of Russian forests. This shape-shifting spirit can lead travelers astray with eerie whistles or by mimicking the voices of loved ones, creating labyrinths where once familiar paths stood. But there's wisdom in these tales—respect the forest and its keeper, and you might find your way home. The traditional method to break a Leshy's spell? Turn your clothes inside out and put your shoes on the wrong feet to confuse the trickster.

We then dive into the legend of the Brosno Dragon, a lake monster with a remarkable historical connection. Unlike most cryptids, this creature reportedly saved the city of Novgorod from Batu Khan's invading Mongol army in 1240. When the Golden Horde paused at Lake Brosno, the massive serpentine beast emerged from the depths, creating such terror that the conquerors of nations retreated, interpreting the monster as an omen that the land itself had risen against them.

Through these stories, we explore how folklore serves as a bridge between humans and the natural world, teaching respect for forces beyond our control while providing protection through cultural knowledge passed down generations. Whether you're fascinated by mythology, cultural traditions, or just love a good monster tale, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into Russia's rich folkloric tradition.

Listen now, and remember—when wandering in strange woods or beside deep lakes, a little respect for local spirits might just save your life.

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