Alexandra Vasilenko, Period 6, 3/17/23

 Sasha Vasilenko

pd 6, 3/17/23

Modern Mythology 2023

Creativity & Fiction 

One day, a girl named Lily set out on a walk. She was known by everyone for her bravery and kindness. While walking, Lily came across a mysterious creature. After a brief investigation, she’s realized she is facing Grendel, who has been terrorizing her village for ages. Lily was ready to run away fearfully, but she studied Grendels depressing and confused look. 

“Who are you?” asked Grendel. Lily answered and they had a small talk. Grendel explained to her that he had been cursed. He lived a life of loneliness, he was unaccepted everywhere, so as a result he found home in the woods. Lily’s eyebrows lowered, her face pulled together. Her fearfulness quickly turned to sadness. She wrapped up the conversation, telling Grendel she’ll be back to visit, and went back home. 

For years, Lily has heard countless stories about Grendel. She’s heard it all. From stories of Grendel killing people and crops, to him being responsible for any minor inconvenience. However, as their friendship continued to grow, Lily came to learn that he wasn't what he was portrayed as. He was genuinely kind and understanding. He just wanted a friend. He didn’t want to be alone anymore. 

After seeing this side of Grendel, Lily decided to try to help him. She was determined to break this curse, this isolation. Lily had an inkling and decided to go check in on Grendel. As she approached, she heard a bunch of villagers stomping and screaming. Once she caught a glimpse of them, her stomach turned. She noticed they were angry, carrying torches. They wanted to kill Grendel. Obviously, Lily couldn’t let this happen. 

“Stop! Grendel is NOT a monster! He’s been cursed. He hasn’t hurt anyone and he hasn’t caused any harm. Leave him alone,” she cried out, but it felt like a wasted effort. They just kept marching. Without a second thought, Lily jumped in front of Grendel to protect him. She ended up getting hurt, nearly dying, and in this brief moment, Grendel had a revelation. He realized how much Lily has done for him, all with her company. He felt a rush of power, not like anything he’s felt before. No one knows what really happened, but he suddenly began to transform. He became a handsome young man, and he was suddenly free of the curse. 

Grendel lied down beside her, staring deep into her eyes, thanking her for everything. She closed her eyes and peacefully passed away. Grendel had finally found a true friend, and from that day on he devoted the rest of his life helping others