Winter's Ten

One was the lonely mountain that held Winter at bay.
Two were the couple trees that stood in Winter's way.
Three were the meandering brooks that Winter froze first.
Four were the small villages that Winter hit the worst.
Five were the sacred stones that told of Winter's cheer.
Six were the drunken men who took on Winter without fear.
Seven were the maidens fair who prayed for Winter's leaving.
Eight were the wizards wise who told of Winter's deceiving.
Nine were the wizened crones who groaned with Winter's chill.
Ten were the winter festivals where everyone ate their fill.

Winter comes and Winter goes, full of grace and beauty.
But beware the calm before the storm, for you'll soon see Winter's cruelty.