The Red Cap

A curious antagonist emerges from the depths of the earth in the Simone story, featured in Song of the Spirits. If he sounds familiar, it’s because the Red Cap is actually a fairly well-known entity, with roots in both English and Scottish lore. Residing in the ruins of ancient castles and watchtowers, the Red Cap is a cunning, goblin-like spirit, not one you’d want to eagerly encounter. He is easily recognized by his fiery crimson eyes, iron boots (which in no way impede his swift movement), and of course, the bright red cap adorned upon his head, hence the name, Red Cap. Over time and without human blood to replenish its color, the redness of his cap will fade, creating a desperate necessity of human victims. One would be wise to avoid the Red Cap at all costs, and in no way invite him into one’s space. To say that he is dangerous would be a vast understatement.

There is a way to defeat the Red Cap, should one find him invading their space, emotions, or mental state—the proper holy incantation. This can depend on one’s faith, and many argue that Christian prayers are the way to dispel him. But any powerful words backed in a deep belief system would cast the Red Cap back to his ruins, much like the exorcism spell performed by the group of magical beings in the Simone story. Chanting the words of faith, vibrated deeply and strongly from the throat in a single breath, will eliminate the Red Cap and free the afflicted’s mind and body from his influence once and for all. So remember this, should you ever find yourself face to face with him—heed this warning! The Red Cap is not a being to be trifled with.

-T.