Julia’s 100 word challenge this week is to take a fairy story and re-write the ending. I’ve chosen a Japanese folk tale that I love,
The Crescent Moon Bear
‘But the wise woman told me to bring a hair from your throat,’ said Harumi, shaking with fear.
‘She always does,’ the Crescent Moon Bear roared, ‘now clear off.’
‘My husband will die, he’s been fighting wars for years and he’s . . .
‘Traumatised, yes, I’ve heard it a thousand times.’
‘So you’ll help, please? I’ve brought food.’
‘Look, plucking my hair hurts, I know you’ve been through hell to get here, it’s a test. Just be patient and loving. Eventually your husband will get better. GO!’ he shouted so loud that Harumi jumped, ‘leave my food behind, or I’ll eat you.’
In the original, the bear gives the woman a hair from the crescent moon on his throat. When she arrives back down the mountain the wise woman throws it away and tells her to be patient with her husband.
Join in at http://jfb57.wordpress.com/2014/03/03/100-word-challenge-for-grown-ups-week124/
Lucid Gypsy 
I love these forays into these stories you present us with Gilly!
A story that keeps me wanting for more. Best of blessings to you and family always.
I love your alternative ending 🙂
Beautifully written
I had to go look up the original story…like your ending much better Gilly.
Smart bear! Love your twist way better too 🙂
Thank you for the new insights. Fairytales that make me think deeply about my own motivations are my favorites. The crescent bear is an interesting tale. My patience skills are sorrily lacking also. Now that I know about the bear- i can skip that journey.
Thank you Gina, I’m glad I made you think of possibilities!
Lovely ending, Gilly. I hope her husband recovered quickly. 🙂
I haven’t heard this folk tale before, Gilly but I love your twist of giving the bear attitude! 🙂
Superb ending that made me laugh 🙂
perfect!!! trust you Gilly 🙂