A little story about the Dolomites forest queen Merisana and her bridal-veil on #IWD2021...
Despite being the ruler of many lands, forests, lakes and rivers she could not feel happy because others within her realm still suffered. Whilst passing through her region, a travelling King (Rey de Rayes) caught site of her and was immediately transfixed by her beauty, so much so that he could not believe she was real in the passing glimpse he had.
A year passed and he could not shake that brief glimpse of Merisana so he headed back to find her again. Upon doing so he asked for her hand in marriage to which she replied "I cannot say no, but before we can marry every being must find happiness, obtain that for me and I will be yours".
Word soon spread amongst men and animals and they all consulted in how they could honour Merisana on her wedding day. To show their gratitude for this gift of happiness many brought huge bouquets of flowers and plants. Overwhelmed with bouquets, some hard working Dwarves decided to make a tree of them, this became the larch tree.
However, the tree soon began to wither so Merisana said she would sacrifice her bridal-veil which was made of fine green tissue. Immediately the larch began to sprout and flourish, the bridal-veil growing into it.
When the larch trees begin their awakening in spring, the 'bridal-veil' can clearly be seen on the tops of its branches. The veil of Merisana, forest queen of the Pale Mountains.
Thank you to ALL the amazing women who bring happiness, whether you are a forest queen or not :)