Herne The Hunter

By Crusader1307

''Herne'' is a spectral Huntsman who haunts the Royal forests in and around Windsor Castle in England. He is seen wearing chains and has deer antlers growing from his head. Often, he is seen with two spectral hounds (or sometimes riding a ghostly horse). As to the legend, Herne was a Royal Huntsman for King Henry VIII. While escorting The King on a hunt, Hernes saved Henry from being killed by a large Stag (by throwing himself in the beast's way). As he lay dying from impalement, a Healer appeared and told The King to cut off the Stag's antlers and tie them to his head. This would save Hernes. King Henry did and Herne was saved. Honored for his feat, Herne grew in fame and fortune (to the dislike of the other Royal Huntsman). Providing false information that Hernes was poaching The King's animals Hernes was fired. Distraught, he hung himself in the forest. From that point (until now), Herne haunts the Royal forest. To see him, invites not only a poor hunt  - but possibly falling prey to a wild animal in the forest.