DRAGON LONGZE ENCOUNTERS FREYA (BY BOST, 2026 – PART 3)

After the tragic loss of Alec, Hans still grieving, Freya and her father had lived in a cocooned state of isolation; though, Freya had never outwardly said it, deep in her heart she had held on to the belief that her beloved brother was still alive somewhere and that he would one day return to them and things will be the same as before.

01- ALEC AQUILA AND FREYA (1)JP

Moreover, each night before going to sleep she quietly fetched the little carved red fox her brother had bought it for her on that day at the summer solstice festival before everything had changed.

02- FREYA IN THE MARKET (2)JP

Freya, every night without fail talked to the little fox, as if it were alive, then kiss it and placed it beside her pillow, remembering those joyful moments in her life, when Alec and she, had both laughed and talked endlessly without abandon, about everything and nothing.

It was the last thing she watched before going to sleep and the first thing she saw when she awakened at sunrise.

03-FREYA LOVED THE LITTLE RED FOX (1)JP

                                                                                          ~      

 

Autumn was a particularly precarious season, a vital period where most inhabitants within and at the periphery of this autonomous village, would be engaged in frantic activity of readying themselves for the long harsh winter months ahead, where they would be trapped indoors; and this was because, when the snow came which lasted for days -  the incessant (relentless) , tempestuous lightening storms with hurricane winds, biting snow and ice-  it turned this pristine region into a treacherous land. The few, scarce paths then became extremely perilous or obstructed by debris; thence, eradicated (cut off) any access to the village from the outside world.

04- HANS AQUILA (15)JP ON HUNTING TRIP

Hans Aquila thinking he still had time, three days prior had left on his end-of-season hunting trip; but winter storms came unusually early this year. As the temperatures suddenly plummeted, Freya was beset with worry, for her father had not yet returned. She had always been well loved and diligently protected by both Hans and Alec; all alone now, her safe sanctuary felt precariously brittle, especially since an inexplicable deep sense of foreboding just then had gripped her heart in a vice.

All during the day, she had frequently stepped outside, her eyes eagerly searching the distant paths for any sign of her father Hans; the weather, echoing her emotions, had been most unsettling all day long, sunny one minute, hazy (misty, fogy) the next. Her pensive (wistful, melancholy) gaze once more searched the distant paths disappearing into of the forest.

Unable to stand still, for the fifth time she again stepped outside, and her eyes eagerly perused (checked) the far distance.  After an extended period, she sighed and then reluctantly turned on her heals and went back inside to, place her folded her hands in her lap, sit by the hearth and, with a void stare and in melancholy mood, simply gaze at the flickering flames.

For an unfathomable reason, her contemplation just then had reverted (turned) to her still absent brother Alec whom she so terribly missed; she rose from her seat, fetched the red fox wood statue and holding it in her hands, and looking at its eyes, she began talking to it. She felt silly doing that in daylight and leaned back in her chair and closed her eyes instead; but her mind still stubbornly and defiantly continued ruminating (cogitating) the delightful events of that day at the summer solstice festival.

Being so worried, she had forgotten to eat anything all day long, save for the coffee and toast at breakfast time; her thoughts oddly enough just then recalled the last batch of fluffy pastries in which they had indulged. As if plaintively, at that moment her stomach growled loudly, as she same time recollected (absentmindedly thought of) the exquisitely delectable apple-strudel she had last eaten with Alec at the market! Only, his had been a cherry tartlet; thinking of that, she smiled, certain Alec will return one day soon, and they will again (partake in) do the same.

05-ALEC AQUILA AND FREYA (6)JP

Back then, at one point Alec appearing nervous, and his hidden hand ruffling the few coins in his pocket, he’d smiled fondly and mischievously, then asked for her to wait there, while he briefly stepped inside a shop to conduct some business; knowing him however, she knew he must have prearranged to purchase an item, a certain delightful gift for her upcoming birthday and so nodded sweetly and smiled, acquiescing. In that brief time of Alec’s absence, however, Jedrick had appeared out of nowhere and oh so suavely (elegantly, graciously) accosted her.

A dark shadow fell over Freya’s face at present, recalling (even the minutest details of), how despite Jedrick’s civil words and smile that never reached his eyes, something about him that had unsettled (even frightened) her. Lowering her head and mumbling some excuse, therefore, she had striven to get away; but he had agilely (nimbly) positioned his body at every instance, to menacingly, block her way (preventing her escape). She had felt like a trapped bird, facing an avaricious wildcat.

Subsequently, his odd, almost hungry gaze that had been searching for something in her eyes (the typical allure, bashfulness, the usual signs of infatuation, flirtation), not detecting any of it, thus clear disappointment (but only for a spell) registering in his face, he’d then affectedly inclining his head, sardonically and cheekily (irreverently) grinned. At the time she had no way of knowing this, but her sheer indifference to him, had suddenly made her a challenge, a rare, prized objective, which beget (resulted) his offended ego now hankering to totally possess (own) her.

06 - JEDRICK BIJARKE (17)JP

Though Jedrick, in volte-face (in turnaround), had hidden his unsavory (nasty)aim and instead, chivalrously bowed (nodded) his head and, addressing her formally, extended his polite felicitations (salutations) to her. His continued intense gaze (stare), however, had infused her heart with a certain dread and same time made her flesh crawl.

Minutes before, prior of his rude intrusion, a particular silver hairpin in one of the stalls had caught Freya’s eye and after examining it and deciding on not to buy it for it was far too expensive, she had just put it down, when Jedrick, appearing at the spot, had brazenly snatched the shiny trinket from where she’d left it, and held it up to examine it, then superciliously asked: “You like this?” She shook her head in answer and was about to offer an excuse and try to get away, when he, next instant dismissively threw down, a silver ingot, as if it were a paltry sum, and haughtily declared, “I’ll buy it for you.”

Jetrick, then turning to the merchant added, “And vendor, you may keep the change.” Her wishes were of no consequence, as he had already presumptuously made up his mind to purchase it, hence, obligating her to be nice to him.  

As the cast amount had been far more than the asking price, the merchant with glee had eagerly (instantly) snatched it, bowing to him and declaring his thanks, therefore, finalizing the transaction.

Now you owe me. Jedrick, meanwhile, had calculatingly for a spell glanced at her, then turned to look at the shop where Alec had gone; afterwards, he indecorously (boorishly) grinning, had again affixed his gaze back on her and this time kept it there for a long while.

07 AJEDRICK BIJARKE (4)JP

Jedrick had next drawn to closer proximity to Freya, leaned forward and, with his hot breath in her ear, snobbishly whispered: “Darling why resist destiny, you shall soon be mine!”

Presently, an involuntary shudder passed through Freya; as she, looking at the flames, experienced the same helplessness and dread that had back then gripped her heart.

Though she had refused the gift, he had grabbed her right wrist, forcefully unfurled her clenched fist, and pressed the hairpin into her palm; therefore, obliging her to be civil and meekly accept his forced gift. In front of the motley eyewitnesses hence, he had arrogantly, improperly declared to all, that she was now marked as his; and, if she was lucky, she will be his future mate(wife).

Despite her innate docile nature, seeing red, and indignant, obstinately she had thrown the silver hairpin (trinket)with force at his face, barely missing his left eye. Onlookers gasped and then they stared at the apparent crimson scratch on Jetrick’s porcelain left high cheekbone.  This extreme disgrace (humiliation) had for a moment derailed Jedrick; then, murder registering in those eyes, he had raised his hand to strike her.

Luckily just then, however, Alec had at that precise moment stepped outside of the shop and, grasping the situation at once, with incredible speed closing the distance, had with force gripped Jedrick’s wrist, arresting (halting) his aim, in mid-air.

Freya took in a deep intake of breath and longingly sighed; her mind cogitating (deliberating) now on the very image of her heroic brother Alec.

 Alec next, having pinned his threatening gaze just inches of Jedrick’s, as he still held on to Jetrick’s wrist, furthermore, with his thumb pressing on a specific point just so, his eyes narrowed, daring Jedrick thence, to give him a single reason to break (maim) it. The irate fury in his pupils, the implicit threat, was unmistakable; intensity of which, moment later, had cowed Jedrick.

The ominous atmosphere and the tense standoff, which had subsequently propelled many onlookers in the market squire to cower and slowly back away to safe distance, was furthermore diffused by the sudden appearance of two-armed stalwart security enforcers. They had been dispatched, carrying orders to at once bring (escort) Jedrick to his father Elof Bijarke’s presence.

08-ELOF BIJARKE

Before his obligatory departure however, Jedrick had menacingly leaned forward and whispered something which had been audible only to Alec. Alec had somberly, never taking his eyes off Jedrick, nodded his ascent, then turned with a serious demeanor but gently taking Freya’s hand, he had then escorted his sister safely away from the once volatile scene.

The ache in Freya’s heart presently rekindled, she somberly looked down. Unfortunately, from that time on, Alec had shut her out and remained mysteriously tight lipped, despite all her concerned queries, about the nature of Jedrick’s whispered communication, which Alec had so promptly acquiesced to. Moreover, everything had markedly changed after that day. With certain hindside, she now understood, she was at the root of his troubles, that she was solely responsible for his subsequent moody silent absences and mysterious bouts, fights, returning from those engagements with bruises and cuts, whom he had hidden from everyone including her. However, being as close to him, even then, she had quietly suspected the source of his adverse behaviour being herself; and had hoped that he might one day voluntarily unburden himself and then include her in all his deep dark secrets. She had thought she had ample time; alas, time was a luxury that had been denied to them both!

Strangely, since her brother Alec ‘s absenteeism (truancy), Jedrick had been unusually civil; furthermore, he and his goons had noticeably kept their distance from both Hans and Freya.

All the same, Freya had sensed that her father Hans Aquila for some time now had been troubled by some grave matter; since Wednesday last week, when Elof Bijarke’s second in command had suddenly showed up at their doorstep, to present a formal command, disguised as written request, for Hans to report to his office at his earliest convenience.

That afternoon her father Hans obligingly had gone into Village, to the Head of the security’s office. Later, when her father Hans had returned home, his face had drained of all color (was ashen) and he looked terrible concerned (troubled) about something; however, despite all her queries (enquiries), had refused to disclose the reasons of his unease and furthermore, remained adamantly tight lipped about the contents of Elof Bijarke and his private discourse (conversation, chat).  All during the repast, though, he had periodically stolen worried glances at her, that also registered deep dismay and intense agitation, which she had pretended not to have noticed.

Three days later, a chest bearing precious items, had been formally presented to her father, whom he had been obliged to accept. Once more, however, her inquiries, had gone unanswered.

                                                                                               ~

Then just before Hans Aquila left on the hunt, her father had pulled Freya aside and gently reassured her that upon his safe return he would at length talk to her about a grave matter and explain all the details to her. That he did not wish to unnecessarily worry her; he would use the time while hunting, to first clear his head, evaluate (tally-up) all available options and then figure out an apt way to extricate them (Aquila’ family) from the obligatory commitment (contract) which he’d signed under duress. Hopefully by the time he got back, he would find a lawful resolution or another alternative way out of this dilemma. His cryptic words had nevertheless, had caused her serious worry.

09-HANS AQUILA (21)JP

Subsequently, as she painstakingly considered (deliberated) all the available clues and the ensued, unusual set of events, her keen intellect and being an astute observer, she had arrived at the most probable cause.

This had upset her; and even now still very much perturbed, she pensively lowered her head; understanding, the full implications of Elof Bijarke’s sudden request to see her father, and Hans’s subsequent parting words just before he’d left on a hunt: “signing under duress,” meant. It had furthermore denoted: that both patriarchs (head of the families) had already signed the formal nuptial document of declaration of intent to be the future in-laws. As further proof of this, had been the prior unexpected gifts: the chest, bearing precious items delivered to their home, whom Hans had been forced to accept, as it was the obligatory dowry (wedding gift, an offering) tendered (offered, sent forth) by the groom’s family to the intended bride’s family, to seal off the agreement. Jedrick must have persuaded his father Elof Bijarke that he had fallen deeply in love with her (Freya) and that he would have no other for his mate. But what had possessed Jedrick to do this? He did not love her!

This stark realization, all being just the preliminaries to her future, compulsory (binding) nuptials to Jedrick, had justly stolen Freya’s breath. That night she had slept badly; furthermore, her sleep had been assailed with terrible nightmares, all of which included Jedrick, her and Alec.

Even now, a day later, being reminded of the possibility of her union with Jedrick, despite all her effort to keep (maintain) calm, the horrific cognizance (grasp) still constricted her heart in a terrible vice. Her complexion once more (yet again) became ashen and, she felt both lightheaded (faint, vertiginous) and nauseous all at once.

She shook her head and heaved in a morose sigh, bearing in mind Elof Bijarke’s power and Jedrick’s dogged (tenacious) intent, therefore, cogitating (considering), fearing for her father’s safety in the wilderness during the hunt. All during her repose (inactivity) by the hearth, meanwhile, a repeated pattern two days in a row,  she had been fearful, intermittently ( occasionally) disquieted, startled even,  by every ordinary sound: like the rustling of leaves on the ground or, by those falling from the trees, at the sighing of the wind in their branches, at the rushing, gurgling sound of water of the fast flowing spring that bypassed their small abode as it charted a course over the rocks. , the just then lonely eagle’s cry overhead, as it with outstretched wings rode the surging airstreams (winds) of the sky and later still,  the haunting  (lingering) wolf’s howl from afar.

10- A WOLF

The third day being no different, Freya, with her heightened sense of foreboding (fear, hopelessness, and grief) yet again gripping her heart in strong vice, could not ban the few escaping tears that charted (registered) a wet course down her pallid cheeks. Feeling cooped up, forlorn, with only a thin shawl, which was once her mother’s, draped over her shoulders to keep out the biting winds, a young and slender figure, akin the white blossoms of spring in the falling rain, Freya had once more stood at the open doorstep, her eyes pinned (glued) to the far void.

By mid afternoon, the violent winds had finally tapered a bit (diminished from its gale force); however, now that the mist rose (from the convergent airstreams) and the miasmic fog began to roll over the familiar foothill’s paths, the loneliness of the scene was deepened further, by the plaint of insects chirruping in the grasses, and by the slow pattering of the first drops of moisture on the rooftop and the wooden railings of the porch. She turned to go inside, when just then however, her ears detected (picked up) the faint, hunting melody emanating from a wind instrument (a flute), from the periphery of the forest. It tolled (resonated, echoed) the transientness of all things earthly; and, despite the gloom in her heart anticipating that in four hours, the dusk then thereof would mantle of Earth in pitch darkness festering (aggravating) her fears – this still afforded her heart an inexplicable solace (comfort, relief). Miraculously also, the sun’s golden rays had just escaped (peeped out) from the clouds that had swiftly been heralded to distant point in the sky, to embrace (bathed) the Earth and her in comforting warmth.

11- lONGZE PLAYING THE FLUTE

Freya, moreover, for a second had thought she’d seen an unusually tall, strapping (broad-shouldered, stalwart, robust) a handsome young men with pale alabaster skin that almost glistened in the sun, his long, straight, white-blond hair cascading down his shoulders and reaching his waist standing at the edge of the forest. He was clad not in ordinary local rough attire but in rich, well tailored brocade garment, with silver threads running through it, the length of which reached down to his feet. Akin a fable prince, he held in his hand the flute which he had momentarily stopped playing. As if sensing something, he had then abruptly looked in her direction and, his gaze thus meeting hers, he simply had nodded and smiled in polite greeting. However, when she blinked, he had totally disappeared (instantly vanished into thin air) the very next instant, which begged the question, whether he had been a phantom or a fanciful figure of her weird (eccentric, odd) imagination.

 

(END OF PART 3) 

 DRAGON LONGZE ENCOUNTERS FREYA (BY BOST, 2026, PART 2)

 

 On that faithful day at the sixty-seventh Summer Solstice festival, the two antagonists (rivals), Alec Aquila and Jedrick Bijarke, had yet again clashed, when Alec had stoically and valiantly defended his sister Freya’s honor.

01-JEDRICK BIJARKE (12)JP

Alec, furthermore, covertly challenged by the brazen Jedrick, to the ultimate (high stakes) duel, he, without moment’s hesitation, had intrepidly and gallantly (boldly) accepted it. Because of his protective instincts, however, he had kept her entirely in the dark about the arranged duel; instead, quietly tended to his sister’s needs and afterward, because their mood had been spoiled, he safely escorted her home.

During repast that night, one look at their sombre faces, and Hans Aquila, understood at once that something grave must have transpired, during that day’s excursion in the Village, which had brought them home early. Thus, their missing night’s sundry (manifold) festivities and the still ongoing, multifarious celebrations of the Summer Solstice festival in the Village squire, which was the most coveted (popular) occasion where which the young people (teenagers) were allowed to without reservation, enjoy and fully indulge in varied alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine.

02--FREYA AND ALEC AQUILE IN THE MARKET SQUIRE

Moreover, by returning early, Alec and Freya had forfeited their right to participate in the finale celebrations (festivities): the thrilling midnight bonfire, where flutes and drums sang all night, while the young men and women in their colourful fineries (regalia, attire) danced, twirled about and made merry, around the towering, raging (blazing) bonfire at the village squire; a blissful, joyous event that lasted way past the midnight hour. A night also, when the romantically involved young men and women made promises to each other, a respectable number of them marrying shortly thereafter, within a year.

Hans Aquila did not wish to pry, so he had patiently waited most of that night, for his dear children to unburden themselves to him; however, they had both in tandem (concurrently), decided, not to worry their dear old dad with something he needn’t bother.

03- HANS AQUILA (19)JP

                                                                                  ~

 

Four days later, on a cloudy afternoon, at the secretly pre-arranged secluded spot, at the edge of the dark forest, the indomitable Alec had faced Jedrick and his nine most ardent cronies, plus one supreme warrior/guard, Haldor Yon; one against eleven, since the dire combat entailed no restrictions.

Jedrick was quite pleased with himself and utterly confident that on this day he would finally rid himself of the pest that robbed him of his peace (harmony) and serenity (equanimity). Especially since he held the trump card, the famed, invincible warrior, Haldor Yon, with him. Jedrick had asked Haldor, calling in the long-standing favor, the warrior had owed him for his past discretion that had saved Haldor from a grave consequence. Jedrick had same time begged Haldor to keep it entirely secret, for if his father knew, he would be in dire trouble, understanding his concern, the warrior Haldor had readily acceded.

04- JEDRICK (CONFIDENT HE WOULD WIN THE DUEL)

At the anticipated time, Alec Aquila was instantly surrounded by Jedrick, and his staunch (faithful), heavily armed competent posse (gang) of nine; all glowering (scowling), brandishing their swords and poised to strike. The tension in the air was so palpable and all-pervasive (overpowering) that, the varied cohabitants of the forest (all the creatures: animals, birds, insects, and organisms, etc.) all, seemed to hold their breath; and, the air was so thick with tension that one could hear a leaf fall on the ground.

The main adversarial force (group) was held back momentarily from the immediate offensive (onslaught, attack) however; instead, the first honours were given to, Haldor Yon, the invincible, aristocrat/warrior, an esteemed friend and, one of one of Elof Bijarke’s, most trusted, elite guards.

Incredibly, Alec soon surprised Jedrick and all his armed thugs (goons) with his incredible prowess which matched that of the seasoned warrior Haldor Yon’s. During the thrilling incessant three bouts (sessions) of the competition, Haldor had at one point realized that, despite Alec’s young age, and kerbed (limited) experience, he’d finally met his equal in competence, in other words, all the things that had made Haldor to date, invincible. He understood, to his dismay, that this fearless young man could on this day, even surpass (exceed) his proficiency and defeat him. Therefore, from then on, he did not hold back on the speed and ferocity of his blitz (barrage of) offensives (onslaughts).

05- WARRIOR HALDOR YON  AND ALEC FIGHTING  - JP

And lo and behold, Haldor’s ominous prediction still came true. In one remarkable maneuver, Alec, gaining the opportunity, dealt his mighty opponent the lightening death strike (cut, blow) and Halder was no more.

As it had not been Alec’s intent to let things go to that extreme, the dire outcome had as well, shocked him and for a spell he stood frozen where he stood, clearly, visibly demoralized, and utterly grief-stricken.  Unfortunately, in the heat of battle, for a moment he had lost his temper (fury) and let slip his self-restraint; consequently, he had failed to curb (check)his then unleashed supreme innate prowess and now, he had become a murderer… And the stain on his soul could never be erased. Technically, it had been an act of self-defence, as Halder manipulated (fed) by Jedrick’s convincingly deleterious (toxic) defamations (libels, slurs), the guard’s true intent all along, had been to, not just defeat (best) this young upstart Alec, but to acerbically (pointedly, cruelly) annihilate (crush) him.

Jedrick and his posse witnessing this unimaginable outcome, had also for the same duration stood aghast; however, getting a grip on their senses, for they’d just then realized that their life, akin Haldor, was in hazard (peril), they had quickly reassembled and with renewed zeal attacked Alec.

Alec had no intention of slaying them all, nevertheless, knowing Jedrick’s duplicitous (treacherous) and vindictive nature, he just wanted to categorically (firmly) dissuade Jedrick and his gang from going after his family after the duel, specifically Freya, and causing her harm.

During the subsequent, incredibly intense contest (fight) meanwhile, Alec’s swordsmanship skill proved yet again, far superior, as he competently offset Jedrick’s and his clique’s (combined) simultaneous onslaughts; then, within just the first-round Alec utterly bested (vanquished) them all.

Alec’s breath perfectly normal, his scrutinizing gaze panned briefly over the menacing group of thugs that had all been swiftly waylaid (intercepted); the nine disarmed foes, their previous bravado (audacity) gone, they lay strewn (scattered) halter skelter and moaning all around him, clutching their wounds, their clothes bloody and wriggling in pain, on the ground.

Then, for a moment, Alec’s eye caught Jedrick’s; Jedrick’s penetrating loathing gaze thence, his intense odium burrowing into Alec, as his face flushed crimson with vehement ire, overriding his badly concealed mortification. If only he could with his bare hands, tear Alec asunder and utterly decimate (slaughter, cut down) this maggot in million pieces (slices, slivers); however, not even that would mollify (placate) his all consuming, burning rage at this, utter humiliation. He had underestimated Alec’s prowess; thankfully, no one of consequence had born witness to his ghastly disgrace.

06- JEDRICK IS FURIOUS

Jedrick, for the first time ever cowed (browbeaten) and so, conceding to a crushing defeat, from that day on seethed with malevolent odium (abhorrence) towards his lasting nemesis Alec; he did not just want Alec’s utter annihilation, but aimed instead, to shatter (decimate) Alec’s soul by, going after Freya and therefore, executing his ultimate retribution (vengeance, reprisal) on Alec.

Subsequently, when the supreme warrior/guard, Haldor Yon’s demise became known, Haldor, being an important member from a prominent aristocratic family, his death had profound consequences and rippling effects in destabilizing the security as well, the politics within the Village. A meticulous examination during the autopsy of his corpse had revealed the warrior’s grave injury which had resulted in his prompt demise, being an outstanding (salient) feat. Who could have wielded such an impossible strike (cut)? The resulting intense investigation sought to identify the supreme warrior culprit, deeming him to be a fierce, veteran (expert) warrior with obviously invincible prowess.

Jedrick by slightly modifying (altering) his strategy, ceased his chance to, at this point, move tangentially, against Alec. Now, private duels had been prohibited (lawfully banned) for three years now, carrying for the offender, a serious penalty: the sentence of imprisonment and forced labor, without parole for five years, in a heavily guarded penal quarry (silver mine). Despite this, the secret duels continued, to settle unresolved feuds and old vendettas. Jedrick knew also that Alec wanting to keep his sister’s name entirely out of this terrible mess, would never speak out about the duel or the prior trouble (occurrence, clash) involving Freya at the village squire on summer solstice Festival, to anyone, not even his father, Hans Aquila. Therefore, Jedrick in his subsequent court deposition (statement), had audaciously (cheekily) re-constructed the entire script, the scenario, excluding entirely his and his gangs’ involvement in this and, making himself the casual, accidental witness instead, which during a casual hunt with another well respected hunter he’d  just happened on the scene, the palpable place of the violent clash (the scene of the crime)at the edge of the Forest, the place where Haldor Yon’s  body had been left there to be discovered. By the time Jedrick was through with his invented yet astutely logical testimony, it had become nothing more than a flux quarrel, which no one knew the reason of; however, agreeably nevertheless, mysterious motive had unleashed the violent contention (clash)which had resulted in Halder Yon’s demise.

This matter was temporarily shelved (set aside) by the presiding judge, since subsequent weeks of intense search had failed to disclose any likely culprit; Jedrick however, not finished with his campaign against Alec, not by a long shot, he’d quietly then had circulated unsubstantiated rumours that pointed a stealthy, accusatory finger at Alec. Jedrick same time managed to convince and then covertly recruit (enroll) Halder Yon’s secret intimate partner Archilles Elof, to his supposed just cause of apt reckoning (revenge).

07- ALEC FIGHING ARCHILLES ELOF

Two weeks later, a covert challenge had been forwarded to Alec, strongly worded and implying a definite threat against Freya if he failed to accede to the duel.  Alec had of course, accepted it; hoping also, that he would put an end to Jedrick' smear campaign. He was determined too this time, to evermore eradicate (remove) any further threat on his beloved sister Freya.

The arranged place for the duel was at some remote, treacherous high ground (spot, area), at the small clearing, at the edge of the tall precipice. It was disclosed to Alec at the very last minute.  That late, gray afternoon Alec was again forced to fend for himself, this time facing invincible warrior Archilles Elof in fierce combat first, and later, deal with the combined onslaught (attack) from Jedrick and his trusted group from the gang. Jedrick had strategically planned the deadly precision duel to ensure this time, Alec’ conclusive end (termination).

Alec, succumbing to treachery of Jedrick’s at one point, at the edge of a steep (sheer) precipice (cliff), had finally fulfilled Jedrick’s aspiration of eliminating the bane of his life.

                                                                                         ~

As Alec had stockily faced such trying times and overcome many trials and tribulations as well, survived several perilous engagements (combats) transpiring within and the outside scope (perimeter) of the Village (which included the edge of dark forest and the foothills’) -incredibly however, Hans Aquila, Freya, the entire security enforcement, the officials and the ordinary denizens of the village had remained completely oblivious to it all. Tragically, even afterward, all of Alec’s persistent staunch defense of his family, his extreme struggles, his dire combats and eventually, his ultimate valiant act of sacrifice, had never, ever became known.

08- ALEC AQUILA

Five months after the summer solstice festival, shortly after Frey’s sixteenth birthday, her elder brother Alec, had mysteriously taken off one day at dawn without a word to anyone. The search after so many weeks and months was eventually called off by the ever vigilant (resilient) guards of the village, when they had discovered (obtained, found) a torn piece of clothing from his shirt and his discarded bloody sword which lay half buried in the bush, at the very bottom of a deep gorge (ravine). There was not a trace of his corpse; hence, he was presumed befallen to a calamitous end, and after the carnivorous beasts had had their fill, got finished off, by the carrion animals and birds. The case was then succinctly and satisfactorily closed.

Some Villagers were angry with Hans Aquila, blaming him for the present disharmony, as it had set a dangerous precedence with the already restless youth, (many assuming that he with his youthful craze had wished to see the world beyond the village,) within their stringent community; and, Hans was (unofficially) charged for having clearly failed in his parental obligation to instill the necessary discipline in his young son Alec, which then culminated in that serious breach. But from the first, grief-stricken Hans had refused to talk with anyone, about the reasons of his son’s deliberate violation of their most stringent rule and his subsequent absconding that had resulted in the tragic loss of his young life. Though this had reflected badly on Hans, he had adamantly remained tight-lipped about the entire breach, refusing to neither offer an apt explanation or a sincere apology for his son’s ensued (resulted) indiscretion (recklessness) and his failings.

Hans was in fact quietly (in his mind) tallying up the curious set of events and his son’s reticent, odd behaviour, a presumed, deep dark secret he had vehemently guarded, since the summer solstice festival. Though he could not shake the feeling that, behind it all, some danger lurked. Was Alec sacrificed himself, been protective of Hans and Freya?

After the period of hostility (enmity, rancour) however, the prevalent (widespread) disquiet in village had settled down and everything reverted to norm; and she and her father had lived a quiet (placid) though taciturn (reticent, reserved) existence, same as before, keeping only to themselves.

                                                                                           ~

 

 

(END OF PART 2)

  

(Characters: ,  Dragon Longze, Elof Bijarke, son Jedrik, Jedrik’s trump card, trusted and esteemed (valued) friend Haldor Yon, from prominent aristocratic family, and a valued elite guard, serving under Elof Bijarke.  Halder Yon’s secret intimate partner Archilles Elof.  Hans Aquila, wife, Nora, Alec and Freya, guardian Asmund, the trickster demon incarnate, the ersatz (artificial) black panther Sedit, bandit Chief Loki, Immortal warrior Erland, Mayor Gudmund Kirk’s youngest, his still unmarried son Hagen, his wife Selma, his two other sons, the ranchers, named, Agil and Corey Kirk, Olga, Heavenly Emperor’s niece, one selected to be Longze’s future mate)

 

 

 

 DRAGON LONGZE ENCOUNTERS FREYA ( BY BOST, 2026- PART 1)

There existed once a remote village well hidden at high elevation at the foothills of a towering mountain. Four decades ago, the village had been established there by the defeated kingdom Tenner’s warriors, five dissident gentry and some tradesmen and shopkeepers plus few surviving ordinary resilient members plus their families, all having deliberately chosen to be free rather than live under subjugation of the new oppressive (brutal) tyrannical regime that had treated their kind/race as a second-class citizens.

01- VILLAGE

The hardy settlers of this independent village, living at the fringe of civilized world (self-reliant and mostly, cut off from society, the rest of the Nation/ world), had adapted to their new way of life, most by choosing to be hunters and gatherers. There were of course a cattle ranch owned by three recluse aristocrats that mostly kept to himself, a sheep homestead (farmstead) with about thirty sheep, and two thriving horse ranches, which supplied the necessary requirements of the villagers. Only a small group had chosen to work the land and produce medicinal plants, edible roots or grow some grain that could be made into a course (granular, grainy) flour.

This autonomous (self contained)  villagers had  only one blacksmith’s workshop, a single tavern (that was also an Inn) where local man drunk lager beer and gossiped or played cards; a magistrate’s office with three cells (jails); a trading post which was actually a general store that supplied the necessary provisions, such as cloth, blankets, nails, axes, some useful tools and weaponry (for protection) as well as, salt, flour, grain, beans and sometimes coffee (or something resembling it, from the harvested beans they grew on the eastern slopes); a small but thriving bakery that specialized in fluffy pastries; a cobbler (shoemaker) that specialized in custom-made sturdy leather boots particularly for hiking; a tailor shop that did repairs; and of course for the devout citizens, a small church ( with small congregation and a non nonsense priest) and a bell tower.

02- MAYOR GUDMUND KIRK

This small habitation had as well an elected elder serving as the town’s Mayor Gudmund Kirk who was from an old aristocratic family; and as far as politicians go, he was an honest, honorable, conscientious Mayor. mayor: why he’d been re-elected time after time, to be the mayor; his wife Selma was a gracious lady, which fostered (promoted) many charities that benefited the disadvantaged citizens of the village, among them, the destitute peasants, needy individuals and the orphans of warriors lost in combat. Gudmund had three sons: Agil and Corey both were married off at eighteen and lived as prosperous ranchers outside of the village, holding vast lands, the youngest son Hagen, though he had just turned eighteen, was the only one still unmarried and still lived at home. Mayor Gudmund’s erudite (learnt, scholarly) bookish assistant, meanwhile, who had been with the family for two decades, always kept the account books in perfect order.

This village was situated at the edge of a dense coniferous forest, at the foothills of the towering mountain with its summit always covered in ice and snow. At its summit, the four serrated peaks that reached all the way up to Heavens, were perpetually shrouded in miasmic (mist and) clouds.

 The ominous, virtually impenetrable (dense, dark) forest with its tall ancient pines that blocked out the light, was populated with abundant wild fowls (birds), deer, wild boar, hare and (diverse sort) sundry of animals and predatory (carnivorous) beasts; and some folk in town claimed, even phantom beings, as well a dragon, dwelt (resided) there.

                                                                                  

                                                                                            

03B- HANS AQUILA- JP

At the outskirts of this remote village and at the periphery of this dark forest, stood one or two lonely, modest size dwellings, with small surrounding lands, one of which had belonged to Hans Aquila, the hunter; after the tragic demise of his wife three winters past, he dwelled there with his son Alec who was seventeen winters old and his lovely daughter Freya soon to be sixteen winters old. The closeness of their age had made the siblings remarkably tight and Alec, knowing his younger sister’s innocent, trusting, naïve nature had always been very protective of Freya.

 May happened to be Freya’s favorite month; for then the birds (cuckoos) would be singing, and the air was fragrant with scent of blossoms. And the abundant grass then begun to grow taller and thicker in the fields (the land around their dwelling), as the sun then shone brightly overall. One such morning the balm and the gladness of the spring morning greeted the young siblings, Freya and Alec and their beloved father Hans, as they with coffee cup in hand sat at the porch steps, together chatting and talking about nothing specific.

And at the end of the chore filled, busy day, when the evening sun set and after repast, the stars came out one by one in the soft and darkening turquoise of a May twilight, in the happy dwelling, peace and joy typically reigned in the hearts of the three habitants who then sat by the hearth and watched the dancing flames for a time, as they listened to Han’s occasional, hair-raising past adventures, before they retired to their respective beds.

Of course, in that vicinity there lived few other hunters and ranchers, but they were not solitary, they had a spouses and kids, had horses and sheep, though they too, mostly kept to themselves.

04- WARRIOR ERLAND

Hans Aquila ‘s closest neighbor warrior Erland, was an excentric recluse warrior, who’s ranch (homestead) had included a barn and about a dozen horses that grazed in a fenced in area, which he managed all by himself. He had inherited the property nine month’s prior when the original occupant, another solitary warrior, had suddenly passed away; but before he did, he had bequeathed the property to his long-time acquaintance (comrade) and friend Erland. Erland was an austere (grim, unsmiling, stern) handsome, redhaired, green eyed, a bearded, stout man about thirty, a confirmed bachelor, simply known as Erland, with no last name, living at the fringe of the Village, same as them.

Freya was the only one, who was undeterred by the warrior Erland’s unfriendly and almost hostile demeanor, furthermore, she believed that he had a good, honest soul; and so, whenever she encountered him, even from the distance, she never failed to greet him with her sincere smile and by the raised, friendly wave of her hand. His stone heart had eventually thawed towards her, just a bit, by her persistent, though respectful and friendly approach. Eventually his stern gaze, his scowl (glare, frown) softened, and he began responding to her persistently deferential, innocent and sweet salutations, with the slight, curt (brisk) nod of his head, as acknowledgment.

                                                                                        ~

 

Hans Aquila being a competent, a mighty hunter, on occasion accompanied by his son Alec, both would often fearlessly ventured into the depths of foreboding forest, armed with only a bow and quiver of arrows, emerging from it four or six days later, loaded with pelts of predatory animals which Hans then would trade for supplies; as well, hares (rabbit) and one or two bucks (deer), for their sole sustenance (food) as these would last for good length of time.

Most of the game’s choice parts, the meat, within a day was promptly cut off into strips, salted and then set to dry on racks, for their use in later months, while a small portion of it was always reserved for their current use. Freya taking charge of another aspect of it, the seasoned meat would then be made into a hearty, nutritious, succulent (tasty) stew; the slow-cooked meal in a cauldron (cast iron pot), meat simmering along with some wild anions and roots (sweet potatoes) and wild herbs, which Freya collected, at the hearth (fireplace), the casserole soon filled the cabin with delightful, delicious, savory smells. Subsequently, they would enjoy a typical, joyful, evening meal.

05- FREYA

Freya allowing herself a brief respite, stood now by the window, as she sipped coffee from her steaming cup and pensively looked over at the distant ranch; her thoughts were of that lonely warrior Erland who would that very night be sitting down at his table to consume a lonely, perhaps bland and coarse (unsavory meal) repast. She could not help it, but her heart ached for him; suddenly however, having resolved to do the right thing, she rushed back to the hearth.

At dusk that day, Freya bravely giving in to her impulse, carried the small portion of the cooked stew in a clay dish (bowl) placed in her basket and, for the first time ever, trespassed into his property. She then, with quick determined steps climbing the four stairs of his porch and going over left her basket containing the steaming stew and a loaf of freshly baked bread wrapped in a cloth, in front of Erland’s door.  Her heart palpitating wildly, she knocked on the door and hastily retreated into distance before he had a chance to answer the door. She halted few paces away in the middle of the field however and half turned to peak; their eyes met, as he had just then answered the door and, discovering her offering she had left behind.

06- WARRIOR ERLAND

She expected him to be cross with her, but instead, after a curious stare, his grimace (scowl, frown) had unexpectedly softened and replaced with a slight smile as he simply, politely nodded his thanks to her. Afterwards, he bent to pick up the basket and went inside, swiftly closing the door behind him.

Her heart filled with glee (delight, joy), she quickly returned to their dwelling. She had just laid out the plates and cutlery on the table when her father and Alec returned, with a special package they had just purchased after their transaction in Village shop. She was delighted to see that it was a beautifully tailored (sawn), blue dress with beige intricate lace around the lapel (collar, neckline); her heart bursting with joy, she hugged them both in thanks.

Later that night, over dinner she told her father and Alec of what she had done earlier. Hans had frowned at first but then shrugged his shoulders knowing Erland was an honourable man; he shook his head few minutes later however, imagining the daring, impossible scene, then let out a hearty laugh.  Alec looked at his sister with loving affection tinged with worry, hoping her good nature would not one day, land her in any trouble.

07- GIFT BASKET OF THANK YOU

Few days later, the basket was returned, mysteriously appearing at their doorstep at just before dawn, filled with rare fruit, cheese, jar of hard-candies and exquisite pastries, purchased from the Village shops.  And the note that simply said: Many thanks. There was one item however, tugged at the corner, that Freya absolutely treasured, and this was a small silver heart pendant with an ornate initial F on it, fastened on a chain. She wore it from thence always on her neck. Freya had of course wanted to thank warrior Erland in person for this gift, but her aim was deterred by the sound reasoning from her father.

As it were, Erland thereafter, for three weeks, had remained absent from his homestead (ranch); he had gone on a hunt. This was not unusual, as he had done so in the past; meanwhile, a trusted warrior, whom he had occasionally employed (engaged), was seen again taking care of the place during his absence.

 

                                                                                ~

Back in the Village, meanwhile, typically, in any close society there would exist some unsavory elements and there was therefore a group of young men close to Alec’s age, which had formed a secret clique of their own. At the head of this menacing group was Jedrick, an egotistical, malicious (malevolent, nasty, cruel, wicked) strong-arm bully. He kept this dark side of him well hidden from his betters however, appearing instead a respectful, courteous, in short, a suave (smooth, polite, charming), debonair young man. He was tall, handsome looking and had an athletic built, he was agile and possessed a sharp intellect. He, being the sole son of Head of security, the former aristocrat Elof Bijarke, he never lacked for anything and always got his way; moreover, he was good at wielding his sword, and on every encounter, bested any opposition without fail. His father had always held high hopes for him and unaware of his son’s dark side, had hoped that one day he would take on the position of head of security, after his retirement.

08  JEDRICK

At the last summer solstice, during the festival, Jedrick’s wanton gaze had fallen of unsuspecting Freya accompanying her brother through the many stalls that sold custom made shiny trinkets and delightful treasures of all kinds: anything from custom made books, brushes, hair pins, gem crusted small keepsake boxes, golden necklaces, silver inlaid bracelets or rings, antiquate designed vests, combs, rare herbs, intricate laces, toys, specialty deserts and much more. Jedrick had made his inappropriate move on her when for a second her brother Alec had left her site to purchase a secret surprise gift for her upcoming birthday. 

The two antagonists (rivals), Alec and Jedrick, whenever they had accidentally (by coincidence) met in the village squire, without fail they had always clashed. Jedrick with all his advantages, at every contentious (combative) engagement, however, whether it be verbal or physical, infuriatingly so, had failed to trounce (defeat, hammer) Alec. Furthermore, Jedrick had been quietly weary of Alec, understanding that Alec possessed unwavering (staunch) inner strength, stalwart integrity, and obstinate grit (bravery, tenacity, fortitude) Jedrick lacked. Moreover, Alec was an astute observer and had at every instance seen through Jedrick’s deceptive mask (persona) and his false decorum (affability, decency); and then fearlessly he’d exposed (revealed, laid bare) Jedrick’s deception (deceit, called him on it), shaming (defaming) him. Jedrick downright (absolutely) had retaliated then, by persistently spreading unfounded defamatory (slanderous) gossip about Alec and once or twice had even covertly tried to insidiously (perniciously, spitefully) corrupt Alec. He had gone through a lot of trouble (called in favors, bribed, or covertly threatened people) and spent outrageous amount of money; however, in the end, he had still utterly and miserably failed debasing Alec. Subsequently, having run out of all other options but still hoping to contain this threat, or subdue this bane (nuisance, blight), Jedrick this time had tried to recruit Alec into his secret brotherhood (gang). But Alec would have none of it. 

09- ALEC

On that day at summer solstice festival, Alec yet again opposing Jedrick had stoically and valiantly defended his sister’s honor; furthermore, with mettle had accepted the privately issued challenge for the ultimate (highest stakes) duel. 

 

 

(END OF PART 1)