Little JohnBridge Troll

Little John – Bridge Troll

Despite his name, Little John is actually quite large in person. Little John is a troll whose vocation is one born from necessity, rather than malice. His previous attempts to extort goats have been unsuccessful, having devoured them instead. He now relies on extorting wealthy merchants and travellers alike, hoping that they may pay his tolls, so he may later purchase rolls for eating, owing to the fact that he has consumed all goats in the area.

Little John has trolled the Bridge to Avalon for tolls for as long as his troll memory lets him remember. He is its keeper; why he is unsure. No malice is held towards those who attempt to cross, for his post is his job, supposedly. Tolls he collects from those who walk the land, and in exchange for the tolls, Little John exchanges them for rolls. Where and how, is also a mystery. Should he fail to collect tolls, he is instead forced to devour those wishing to cross, in lieu of devouring rolls. Such was the fate of the first three goats who tried to make their way across, citing the greener pastures across the bridge. When the troll realised he had been duped by the three goats, he abandoned his post and instead consumed their flesh, though it was repugnant and raw. A far cry from the warm dough he loved.

Other animals now fear to cross the bridge, and most commonly he halts merchants and travellers. Those who cannot pay are devoured. Those who do pay enjoy a hearty handshake from the troll who sends them on their way, reminding them that the toll only covers one way. This has been his way of life for as long as he can remember, and his simple mind would not wish for anything else.