The shaping is a long story, and be warned, it is a horror story. I had intended to post it in chapters but no access to the internet for a week more or less finished that idea if I wanted the whole thing posted under the deadline for the contest. Since I had no access to a computer, either, I apologize in advance for typos I may have missed while going back over it today.

On a historical note, just to head off questions or arguments, the facts regarding the Osage are true and documented elsewhere. The Spanish explorers I made up to suit my requirements for the story.

I hope you all enjoy my offering to this year's contest as much as I have enjoyed, and am enjoying the other entries. Happy Halloween all!