DRAGON LONGZE ENCOUNTERS FREYA (BY BOST, 2026 – PART 8)

The long walk after her captivity by the bandits, in the bracing air of the autumn day had made Freya so hungry that despite her fear and distress she was famished, still she adamantly refused to eat a morsal.

01- FREYA HELD IN CAPTIVITY (1)JP

Freya felt that she would rather die than be the source of entertainment to this unruly bunch; however, just then Loki nonchalantly lifted his gloved hand and his red, glowing eyes pinned into hers, therefore mesmerising her, he simply flicked his little finger at her. At that instant she found that she was no longer in control of her will, and therefore, began to sing, though, mournfully, for that was what was in her heart, as her tears cascaded down her cheeks.

Loki, seated at the distance, studied this delectable morsal, with renewed interest, and at one point, even licked his chops.

02- FREYA SINGS FOR DEVIL PANTHER  SEDIT -LOKI(5) jp

~

Outside the house blending in the shadows of an ancient, large tree stood a solitary warrior, watching all that went on inside.

From the distinct (vocal cords) voice of the person as she sang, he knew that the captive forced to perform was Freya. During his hunt, he had unmistakably detected the trace of the red-tailed fox fairy and the Bull demon Bandits, particularly the Demon panther Sedit, who called himself at present Loki, the very one he had long sought to destroy.

 The Heavenly warrior now feared for her safety, but he had to exercise patience; also, he had been ordered to wait for the reinforcement that would manifest, in way of Dragon Longze. As it were, he had to be methodically astute (shrewd), before he could extricate her from the clutches of Sedit; hence, he had waited, going over in his mind the already conceived, valid (authorized) strategic plan, that also entailed the surprise attack where which all- of the nine Bull Demons and the malevolent and powerful fox-spirit Maev, that had once been Sedit’s one of six paramour (concubine, courtesan)- would be totally incapacitated and then vanquished (eliminated).  The bandits that had their souls devoured by Sedit and only functioned as enslaved zombies (sleepwalkers, shells of humans) could be shown mercy, if warranted.

03- MAEV - MALEVOLENT FOX SPIRIT (CONCUBINE OF SEDIT)

Well after the music had stopped, and Sedit in human form, ruffian Loki, went to the outhouse to take a leak, warrior Erland, having received notification that Dragon Lonze was near, asked and then being given permission, he’d made his tactical (pre-emptive, strategic) move. He (invoked) wove a binding spell that trapped Loki in the outhouse, then brandishing his sword, rushed into the main complex and anger fuelling his strength, his onslaught took its toll on some but not all of the Bull Demons; and, the fighting then, had spilled, to outside.

04- WARRIOR ERLAND (6)JP

However, there were far too many of them, and they were all powerful demons, so they regrouped swiftly and were about to launch their perilous assault on the Erland, when timely arriving, at that precise moment, Dragon Longze, flying overhead in the dark sky, having pinpointed the Bull Demons down below, exactly where they were, in his dragon form he swooped down from the clouds.

05- DRAGON LONGZE (77)

He could not use his fiery breath however, as this would destroy the innocent captives that had been enslaved by the Demons, which now were being used as also human shields. Then again, Longze was a dragon with additional means to subdue his nemeses, and that was, he had also the breath that could freeze things.

At the start, the ordinarily competent Bull Demon thugs (ruffians, brutes) were so taken by this unexpected onslaught, by this co-ordinated assault from land and air, that for a spell, their commands failing, their subordinates, the ordinary demons had run around amuck (berserk) and in utter chaos (disorder, confusion), making the Bull Demons imbued (filled)with fury and dread. Nevertheless, they quickly rebounded and then fought adroitly (proficiently, ably) to resist being wiped out.

Powerful demon Sedit, understanding his peril, could not be contained by the powerful spell for long, as he used his ultimate power and once released he with intense fury, explosively charged, not at Erland however, but instead, directly at the far greater threat (menace), Dragon Longze. Sedit’s devastating fiery bolts at each instance nevertheless, were quickly (extinguished) rendered ineffective by Longze’s icy breath.

06- DEVIL PANTHER SEDIT ATTACKS LONGZE

Guardian Asmund had watched his prized pupil Longze’s and the Immortal Erland’s coordinated tactical offensives (key strategy) successfully being deployed (utilized, being implemented), and then came, the final assault (onslaught, incursion),the flawless execution of the plan that permanently concluded (ended) the battle.

Asmund, directed not to personally intercede, with keen interest had beheld (observed, witnessed) all that magnificent feat, from a distance. It had gone better than he had hoped. He made a mental note about how the Immortal Erland (Heavenly Guard) had worked particularly well (fought perfectly synchronized) with Dragon Longze; hence, they formed an invincible team. This might prove useful in future engagements.

Of course, Asmund had another reason for selecting Edmund for this assignment; as he understood eons ago, and long ago before Erland had ascended to Heaven, the malevolent demon Sedit had once brutally massacred Erland’s entire clan. Immortal Erland, therefore, secretly harbored strong resentment against Sedit all this time waiting for his one chance to exact (wrest, gain) apt retribution (vengeance, reckoning) and, also rid the world of this malignant (evil) insidious (sinister) menace.

Demon Sedit being a particularly powerful ancient Devil, moreover, being astute (sly, unpredictable) and a true Machiavellian in his evil scheming ways, for a long while had successfully eluded capture and wrecked havoc and devastation, wherever he had suddenly surfaced, on Earth. Erland having a personal stake in this, had long monitored Sedit’s shrewd ploys (maneuvers, schemes) and devious, ways and knew him better than most; hence, he was given leave to assist Longze in this most demanding feat.

That night, the immediate area where the intense battle had occurred, had been transformed to something unearthly; the intense paranormal struggle, the magical, supernatural war(battle) between the forces of evil and the good was beyond imagining and spectacular to witness; and many from the Heaven did indeed, stopped whatever they were doing and peered down to watched with interest, this momentous event. 

07-WAR WITH DEVIL SEDIT (LOKI)

Subsequently, within a short span, all the Bull Demons, including Maev, the malevolent and powerful fox-spirit– they were all wiped out, Sedit took a while longer but he too, eventually got vanquished by the combined invincible prowess’s of both Erland and of dragon Longze.

Culprit Jedrick at one point having found himself confronted by Heavenly warrior Erland, he, in vain had fought to the best of his ability. His swordsmanship and other prowess, naturally fell far short, in besting (defeating) this valiant, invincible warrior’s innate skills and dexterity; and so, at one point, realizing the hopelessness of his situation, he had sought to flee (abscond) the scene of battle. But Jedrick could not get far and in the end, he too, was captured; and though he did not deserve it, he was pardoned (forgiven), along with the guard that had accompanied him. Also spared, were those humans forced into servitude, which were zombie servant slaves, cooks, and domestics etc. Those that could be saved and some that were blameless, they all lay senseless on the mats, tied up with a spell rope and placed under the spell of amnesia, which Erland and Longze, taking turns, had invoked.

Erland was tasked with the transport of all these spared and unconscious bodies of captives to a safe spot at the outskirts of the forest; after its completion, he was to return to Heaven ASP (as soon as possible) and resume his post. Erland, therefore, asked Longze to relay his gratitude and deep regards to Immortal Asmund, who had, back at Heavenly court, staunchly (steadfastly) supported him on his just cause. Finally, he then bid his fond farewells to his once childhood friend, Longze.

Before Erland’s permanent departure however, he had visited his modest dwelling on Earth, whom he had spent so many months, retrieved only one or two items that were dear to his heart, then standing some distance away, he invoked the spell Asmund had imparted him, which instantly made his home, the entire complex, along with the horses and rest of animals all of them to vanish instantly into thin air as though they were never there.

 

                                                                                                  ~

 

Back at the forest, well before the battle between good and evil had taken place, that night Freya, after witnessing the odious, (horrible, loathsome, abhorrent) acts of the ruffians that were demons at the dining hall, she had been roughly bound then hauled away and dumped onto the dirt floor of the dark cellar. The shock of night’s vile events having already numbed her senses with fear and glum foreboding, she had then, mercifully passed out. And therefore, she had missed all (the commotion) of the subsequent, earth-shaking course of events. She had laid there in that dark cellar, on the cold, musty dirt floor, bound and unconscious and fortunately, well forgotten by Jedrick, all the Bull Demons, Maev and Sedit, till the devastating battle ended and she was retrieved and brought back upstairs.

By then, three hours prior, Heavenly warrior Erland, along with his copious (plentiful) human cargoes, had already departed the scene.

Freya, having lost all hope, even though she was brought back to safety, from the edge of insanity, her sound reasoning now restored, she remained, in a state of shock and confusion for a long while. Looking at the surrounding ground littered with grizzly corpses that had not yet been cleared, her mind had comprehended (understood), nevertheless, the full measure of her benefactor’s prowess, and despite herself, she was terrified of him. She of course, in her erratic, fitful (disturbed, broken) state, had not recognized her saviour, and so had remained, mostly fearful of him.

Dragon Longze, who was now in his human form and dressed in his unnaturally, immaculate white attire, tentatively approached Freya, seeing that she was still broken (irregular) and terribly shaken; he then,  gingerly took the trembling Freya by the hand and led her to a clearing, at the top of a precipice (cliff), where which it overlooked a magnificent, tranquil scenery, which at the bottom lay a small lake, with the moonlight casting a glowing, shimmering path on the water.

As Freya, then partly (pacified) mollified, gazed up, in part terrified, in part with gratitude filled eyes, up at her benefactor and wondered who exactly was he, a flint of recognition just then registering in her pupils and she understood that he was none other than Longze, who had been so solicitous and kind to her back at the cabin. That same instant another recollection intruded into her brain, and she remembered her father’s words to her in her dream, telling her to implicitly trust this young being.

"Don't be afraid!" Longze, meanwhile, had addressed her in reassuring voice; he next spoke to her, now in peaceful (placid) melodious and soothing tone, "Please be calm, for you are now safe! I am no stranger to you, I am Longze. “

 

(END OF PART 8)

 

 

 

(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), Maev, malevolent and powerful fox-spirit Maev, that had once been Sedit’s one of six paramour (concubine, courtesan),

 DRAGON LONGZE ENCOUNTERS FREYA (BY BOST, 2026 – PART 7)

The young dragon Longze continued to listen with captivated attention, to Freya’s account of her story.

01- DRAGON LONGZE LISTENS TO FREYA (59)

Her sadness in missing her brother Alec, and her trepidation about her father’s well being was so (distressingly) pitiful that the intense emotions reached Longze’s unguarded dragon heart and few pearls of sympathetic tears flowed down, wetting his pallid cheeks.

“You understand; you’ve also lost someone dear to you.” Freya had suddenly uttered, not a question, her curious gaze affixed on Longze, then nodded.

“Yes, my parents.” Longze answered truthfully. “And though it had happened when I was a toddler, barely two years old, and I don’t remember much about them, it still grieves me and I have this void, an empty ache in my heart that can never be placated (mollified).” Longze then realizing what he had done, that he’d born his heart open to a stranger, he lowered his gaze feeling ashamed of his failing and said nothing further about it. In his pensive silence, he hoped that his guardian Asmund had not been presented to bear witness to his flaw, his drawback that happened because of his sympathy (shared compassion) and the resulting slip of the tongue.

As a matter of fact, Asmund had, and he was sad for a while; then, chose not to let Longze know.

“I’m sorry!” Meanwhile Freya, had responded, same time reaching out a sympathetic hand to touch Longze’s shoulder, but then bashfully, awkwardly she retreated it, then said: “I suppose the hurt, the absence never gets easier.”

Longze simply nodded his head; then after some moments of pondering, he said: "I’m akin (similarly) sorry to see you so upset Freya! However, anything I now state would only be a platitude, I mean those things people often articulate,” he quickly corrected, before resuming, “even though it does little to dull the burdening grief in one’s heart.” He swallowed heard. “This said, I could offer you some solace, however, by directing your thoughts to the fact that you have no proof of their passing, therefore, this allows you hope that all might turn out well. Moreover, I encourage you to not dwell on the negative but instead, keep the light of faith in your heart burning bright. You must persevere a little while longer, for truth, as it always does, will manifest one day; and it might not be as you fear, but instead, be a happy one.”

Longze did not offer any additional words of consolation (support), but his sincerity of the heart had already succored (aided, comforted) her, and subsequently, the tension visibly drained from her shoulders. She now breathed a little bit easier.

“Thank you for your encouraging words, Longze.” She then looked up, and consoled, said, wiping away the last of her tears, then (stanchly uttered) resolutely stated, “I shall do as you counselled (suggested) and keep faith, and hope that the future outcome will be the best possible one.” Freya, now meeting his gaze, affectionately smiled at him, which was reciprocated by a warm, encouraging (uplifting) one from Longze.

Subsequently, the two sat there in comfortable silence for a while longer, with their private thoughts and the shared regard (esteem) already manifest and growing, in their hearts.

In all that time Longze had kept his eyes averted and down as he solicitously pondered (ruminated) on all the probable (credible) future outcomes. In the meantime, he was elated to note, how his carefully chosen words had its effect and instilled some lasting hope in her; furthermore, this had also bought him some valuable time, till he perspicaciously (discerningly) examined the facts and ascertained the truth, hoping against hope that the young warrior, whose life he had saved and now convalescing in the cave was indeed her brother Alec Aquila. That would be the best positive outcome in the end and not the crushing, devastating denouement (conclusion) he dreaded.

For now, preferably soon as this very night, while she slept, he planned (intended) to fly over the area (on reconnaissance) and utilizing his keen, innate nocturnal vision, search for her father Hans Aquila. Longze, nevertheless, had refrained (abstained) from saying anything about it to Freya and prematurely raise (build) her hopes, lest (in case) his search proved futile.

02- DRAGON LONGZE ON NIGHT  RECONNAISSANCE(78)

When an inadvertent yawn escaped Freya’s lips just then, Longze rose to his feet at once and said: “But I am being a poor host; you must be tired after your difficult trek, negotiating those treacherous paths all through the forest; then offered, you may rest there if you like by the hearth, until dawn!” For, he was not at all certain if this human habitat (dwelling, abode) had any proper bedrooms, as he had not yet examined the two small rooms at the back interior of the lodge (cottage, small bungalow,); furthermore, he was not certain they would be warm or had any working fireplaces or that they were structurally sound. And besides, he was not entirely sure, she would be comfortable sleeping in an unkept, dust clustered, dark room. The small cod or the rocking chair by the hearth looked comfortable enough, and he decided she might feel more at ease resting her weary self there and so said, “I’ll fetch you some blankets in case you require further warmth during the night.” As he had seen two folded ones in the linen closet in the hallway leading to those rooms.

Freya, affectionately stared after Longze, as he’d rushed off in haste to fetch her the blankets. He’d come back short time later, however, bringing not only the folded blankets and a quilt, but other items he’d just then discovered within the bottom shelf of the adjacent smaller cupboard in the hallway - such as it were, they were human edible foods, fresh fruits, dried strips of meat, biscuits, a just baked fresh loaf of bread and jars containing some preserves; and all of it, he’d then unselfishly just presented to her, for her sole use (perhaps for her supper).

Neither Longze nor Freya had thought to question this miraculous find. Longze being only seventeen in human years, therefore relatively young in age and trusting, had assumed thus, it was his guardian Asmund who had provided it; and Freya, fatigued (overtired) and her body craving sleep, had simply deemed this dwelling had belonged to Longze.

Longze’s sweet nature and genuine thoughtfulness, unbidden, had abruptly reminded Freya, nevertheless, of her beloved brother Alec, and instead of joy, she furrowed her brow (creased her forehead) and sorrow anew registered in her face, which utterly baffled Longze.

03-DRAGON LONGZE  (1)

Noting the confusion in Longze’s eyes, Freya hastened to explain the truth of it, that her reaction just then had been because of a sudden recollection of Alec’s ways, that so mirrored Longze’s. Freya then went on to thank Longze, her host, in the sincerest tone, for his hospitality and apologized for all the inconvenience and trouble she had caused him.

Longze, relieved, with the wave of his hand, hastily dismissed it all (his merits, his virtues); a sudden tinge (shade, hint) of pink (hue) graced his porcelain (flawless), pallid cheeks as he’d looked in fact, quite embarrassed, by her genuine gratitude and apparent (unmistakable) fondness of him. In truth, he was not used to being praised; his humility however endeared him even more to Freya. Subsequently, when Longze withdrew to one of the cold rooms, bidding her "good night," she settled in the rocking chair, instead of the cod; then, nestled in warm blankets and the quilt, within minutes, she was fast asleep, dead to the world.

                                                                          ~

 

At the hour when the hush of night is deepest, Freya saw her father enter the Cabin’s living room and draw near her.

His sad eyes brimmed with glistening tears, he pensively said: "Freya, my precious, darling daughter; please do not search for me in the forest anymore; and I wish I could tell you to return in haste to the safety of our abode. Alas, our humble dwelling would not be a safe place for you either. Meanwhile, I regret informing you that, I have fallen victim to the devil incarnate, Sedit, and lured to the edge of a sheer cliff, wanting to escape being possessed or eaten by him, I hurled myself over a precipice. I should have rightly been dead instantly when my body hit the bottom of the ravine, but miraculously still, a force had slowed down my descent (plummet, plunge), and I landed on the rocky bottom of a chasm, thousands of feet down, broken and bloodied from prior injuries, but very much alive.  Nevertheless, my wounds being grave, it restricts my mobility, and so, I lie here, anticipating the prowling predators may finish me off, before I could reach safety. I do not know how much longer I shall be in this world… You must not grieve for me, however, for when I expire, my spirit will surely soar straight to Valhalla, the noble warrior’s eternal resting place and I will be content; especially, once your brother Alec join me there. And thus, together we shall watch over you from up there, till the day of our family re-union (we are united). Though I am forbidden from knowing who this young man Longze, truly is-   from everything I have been permitted to learn, I can honestly attest (say) that he has integrity, a compassionate innate nature, and a truly noble soul. So, yes, when at present, any danger befalls you, place your complete trust in this, most remarkable young being. I am certain he will protect you well. Meanwhile, you must be weary my daughter, particularly of Jedrick, as many dangers are still abound- Fare the well my precious; may you live a healthy, happy and an exceptionally long life…. Keep safe, till that time, we are all joyfully united in the future."

04- HANS AQUILA

As soon as he had finished speaking, Freya stretched out her hands and tried to catch hold of his sleeves to detain him, crying: "Father! father! Do not leave me!" But with the sound of her own voice, she awoke.

She sprang up expecting to see her father, but there was nothing in the room except the night-lantern glimmering faintly. While she was wondering whether the vision was a dream or a reality, the dawn began to break.

“I must go to him… I must find him, before it is too late!” Freya’s urgent words resounded in the lonely air.

Freya sought to speak to Longze and tell him of her presaging (boding, auguring) dream; however, he was nowhere to be seen. She therefore quickly washed her face using the water in the porcelain-basin and dried her face by the plush towel that Longze had thoughtfully provided for her, alongside it on the side table. She hastily ate a simple breakfast, a chunk of bread, slice of cheese and bunch of berries and cluster of nuts, and then, thinking that time was of the essence and so she should begin the search for her father’s whereabouts, starting immediately, that there was no time to loose; and also, anticipating that Longze on his return, finding her missing, would follow her trail and catch up to her, and then together they would continue on, she hastily took her leave.

                                                                                             ~

She had underestimated the prevalent, spectre dangers within the bounds of this forest; however, far off in the woods the bark of a fox could be heard, while along the path the cloudy tufts of the bushes rustled as she passed.

05- THE FOX

Freya shivered as the chilly morning wind pierced through her body. As she pursued her way along the rough goat’s paths, ones she had falsely assumed were the familiar ones, invertedly she had lost her bearing (direction) and instead taken an entirely different course which would lead to the depths (deeper interior) of the forest. Meanwhile, wild creatures scuttled away, frightened, from before her into the woods, and overhead the birds sang to each other in the trees. Understanding that she was hopelessly lost, she followed the ascending (uphill, climbing) path and long at last, reached the higher elevation, the obvious hilltop. She wanted to use the panoramic view to note, identify exactly where she was. Unfortunately, at the peak, the distant view was suddenly obscured by the rolling in, dense clouds, which had quickly enveloped everything in thick miasma (cloud, fog, mist); and it seemed to Freya as though it would (whisk her away) carry her away with them in their onward sweep.

She sat down on a stone to (catch) recover her breath, for the climb had been steep. In a few minutes the mists began to clear away. She stood up and looked about her, hoping that she might find some trace of her earlier (former) taken path; but as far as eye could see there were nothing but dense foliage, woodlands, forested mountains, range after range, undulated ranges, that at the far distance, could be seen riding one above the other into the blue sky.

06- FREYA  AQUILA (23)JP

Suddenly a noise in the bushes behind her made Freya start, and before she could flee a band of armed bandits (ruffians), three carrying bundles of ropes, which had sprung out of the thick cover of foliage and descended upon her. They seized and bound her tightly. She cried out for help, but only the echoes answered her. Down the mountain they led her till they reached the valley; for half a day they hurried her along till they came to a strange structure, more like a cave – though, it was half imbedded, built so it partially jutted out (extended) from the cliff’s vertical surface.

The camouflaged exterior was in such a neglected condition that moss covered the outer walls, and it was so closely shut up that the sunbeams never entered the rooms.

As they approached the structure, and bypassed its mouth, Freya noted that the interior was deceptively gargantuan; moreover, in the large hall, to her horror she saw Jedrick, standing beside the obvious leader, seated on a dais. Jedrick looked poignantly at the chief, and when he nodded, Jedrick flew down the stairs and pinning his face into hers, menacingly licked his chops and said with an evil grin:

"How do you like my newfound friends…You've given us quite a chaste, darling! Don’t you know you cannot escape my clutches? My father is a fool; he wants our union to be lawful and proper; and therefore, formally asked for your hand on my behalf, and even believed that your father had acceded to it. But you and I know better, don’t we, my sweet?  I know that he still sought to hinder or entirely block this union. I Let him try, but then I lost patience; for, you think I would just wait around for Hans’ consent? That stubborn father of yours, would seek a valid way to sabotage our joining.

He shrugged, “As it is I am habitually, adept at removing any obstacles in my way. Yes, you are a delectable prize, but what makes you so precious that I should so trouble myself. I demand certain compensation therefore, for all my trouble; you will for now …. Hmm, “He smiled slimily and turned to look meaningfully at the chief.

“First, you shall entertain me, us! I know you have a particularly good voice (vocal cords) and the Chief just happens to be fond of sweet melodies and songs from frail young woman; therefore, you shall sing for his enjoyment during repast; then we will see what comes next.”

 “If you dare refuse to obey….” He let the implicit threat hung in the air…Then said succinctly, “Lest just say, Chief Loki would make your life as hard as climbing a mountain of swords or walking through a forest of needles. He assuredly will make a mincemeat out of you. And on that day, when he is tired of toying with you, then it will be my turn to play. “He turned and looked at his chief Loki, and receiving his silent, but menacing grimace, then again turned to face her and scoffed. “Chief does so revel in carnage! “

Loki in truth, the Demon panther in human form, for the time being going along with Jedrick, being amused at latter’s false sense of importance, carefully studied this rare, innocent soul Freya, brought before him.

“Oh, one more thing; lest you are curious; yes, your father has met his fate, with a little help from our illustrious chief Loki, and is now languishing (suffering) half-dead at the bottom of gorge; you’ll soon join him, after tonight’s entertainment. But first, we shall feast."

Freya's arms grabbed by two ruffians, they led her into the house and then into a room where dinner was prepared, with rice and fish and wine in great quantities. Then they all sat down, and as they began to eat, it seemed to her that many were an odd sort; she wondered if they were, demons. She did not know, how right she was. Jedrick passed some food to her and forced it on her, but she refused. Have it your way, stay weak and be more malleable…Jedrick was unfazed.

 

 

(END OF PART 7)

 

 

(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 6)

Freya was happy to have encountered the very young man (Dragon Longze) she had sought to find and now after the knock and facing him, manners dictated that she wait at the doorstep to be invited in; she had therefore, expectantly stared at him, her words temporarily frozen on her tongue while her mind ran a prolific assortment of frenzied thoughts and feelings never before experienced. The young man’s awkward, prolonged response was unnerving; nevertheless, she had felt completely safe, unable to detect least malice, no threat or hostility in his keen gaze.

Longze on his part, had stood inexplicably (enigmatically) immobile because he had been thunderstruck (shocked) to see her there and remaining perfectly still, he was processing inwardly what he faced.

01-DRAGON LONGZE (32)

Freya’s concern for her father’s welfare being a vociferous siren, however, she was the first to break the spell, and the moment her senses snapped back to reality, she said: “Sir, please forgive my rude intrusion; my name is Freya Aquila and I am the daughter of hunter Hans Aquila. I have been beset (overcome) with worry since my father had gone on a routine hunting trip five days prior and has not yet returned; hence, I would like to know if you have come across him or know any news of him. He is my sole living kin, and I fear that something awful (dreadful) might have befallen him in these woods. So, kind sir, is there any chance of you having seen or heard anything about him?”

The girl spoke so quietly and looked at him so vulnerably that Longze deeply affected by her angst, rushed to at once bow his head in greeting and politely introduce himself as Longze, no last name was given; subsequently, he in quick succession, with a gentle voice and demeanor, uttered reassuring words to comfort her. Afterwards, he fell silent, not knowing what else to say.

Dragon Longze thereupon had discreetly observed her, this time being up close and really seeing her, he’d noted that for a human, particularly since her cheeks were tinged with crimson hue (shyness being the most delightful characteristics of humans), she looked as beautiful as a flower, akin those lovely blossoms in spring. Her braided blond hair (locks), meanwhile, disordered as it were, because of the prevailing winds and the storm, falling over her shoulders, swayed like the graceful branches of a willow tree.  Even though her large emerald, green eyes were sad, they held worders of the Universe as it glistened like the stars on a clear night; and, it seemed to Longze that she could not belong to the human species on earth, that she must be a fairy—an angel from Heaven.

02- GUARDIAN ASMUND (1)

“For heaven’s sake, what are you waiting for, have you lost your wits entirely, Longze? Can’t you see she is cold; invite her in!” The impatient voice of his guardian Asmund, audible only to Longze, snapped (busted the trance) Longze at once from his trance like obsession, his fascination of Freya.

“Am I allowed?” Longze abruptly looked up and silently asked Asmund; then straightaway feeling foolish, Longze opened the door wider. He declared that she would be safer and more comfortable inside; thence, with a polite sweeping gesture of his hand accompanying the words of, “Please come in,” he promptly stepped aside, and invited Freya into his humble abode.

Freya, now uttering her thanks, after moment’s hesitation, for her boots were all covered in mud, quickly stepped over the threshold but nervously remained inside by the door.

“She’s worried about dirtying the floor.” Asmund’s voice chimed in Longze’s ears.

Longze quickly responded with his placating (conciliating) vernacular, reassuring her that a little dirt on the floor was inconsequential, then bade (invited) her to please take a seat by the hearth, as she would be more comfortable and warmer there.  

Subsequently, she was shown to a seat and then offered steeping hot cup of tea. Longze, then asking, “May I?” and receiving an affirmative nod from Freya, he set across from her and tilted his head and politely inquired: "Tell me, if you please, bit more about your concerns, and more precisely, more details about your father so that I may rightly assist you in finding him; I will listen to your story, however long in its entirety, if you trust me enough to tell it to me. Hopefully, your father will be found safe, and…” he hesitated before speaking again, “and if you don’t think me too brazen, are you spoken for?" Longze had regretted asking that the moment the words had escaped his lips; he had innately understood the inappropriateness of it, and so, blushing, he averted his gaze and looked down, suddenly discomfited (embarrassed, flustered) and felt gauche (uncouth, tactless). “I’m sorry, you don’t have to answer that!” He then quickly added, trying to remedy his transgression.

“Now you’ve done it; and you were doing so well up till then too.” Asmund’s bemused snicker made Longze further disconcerted (embarrassed), as he had revealed not only to her but to his guardian his maladroitness (unsophistication, callowness, inelegance).

Asmund sensing his deep hurt, relented: “But I see that I am making you uncomfortable; so, I shall take my leave of you for a while. I have other matters to address anyhow. But Longze, do not try so hard; relax, and be yourself, all will be fine. I will check back on your progress tomorrow. “

03- DRAGON LONGZE(60)

Longze was grateful for Asmund’s tolerance and faith in him. He nodded his head, to his guardian; then, his attention was at once reverted (directed back) to her.

Freya, meanwhile, was taken back, baffled even, by his sudden awkwardness, his unusual candor and delightfully innocent nature, and so she had stared at him in silence, for so long that, he thought he’d definitely overstepped some boundary and breached some human decorum (propriety, modesty, tact, politeness) that she was cross with him and therefore, would not answer. But when he dared to meet her eyes again, he saw that there was no judgement, no anger or repulsion, only kindness and tolerance and something resembling his akin intense curiosity, in her eyes. This elated him, and so encouraged, he was about to speak, when the sudden gusting wind that shook the shutters, drew both their attention to it.

The sudden hurricane force wind again rising, had this time seriously shaken the dilapidated structure, which he had found (detected) curiously enough earlier that day.  Having decided on spending the night there, after his brief repose which he had spent playing the flute, he was about to more scrupulously examine the structure, explore and identify the possible hazards (pitfalls, snares, dangers) of the interior, when she had quite unexpectedly shown up at the cabin’s doorstep.  Meanwhile he could not shake the sensation that something was amiss (wrong, awry) or odd about this structure being mysteriously manifested (appearing) there, when there had been no such cabin prior. He had meant to ask Asmund about it, only, he did not get the chance.

Longze, five days erstwhile, as part of his extensive training, had been assigned to complete his eight challenging tasks by his demanding yet fair, current guardian Asmund- as means to assess (evaluate) his growing innate prowess (skill aptitude). The project entailed, that he promptly (within a month) capture and then eliminate the highly volatile, trickster demon incarnates, the ersatz (artificial) black panther, Sedit, that sometimes simulated (sham, fake) human warrior or a ruffian.

04- DEVIL PANTHER  SEDIT (13)

Escaping from the high security, penal colony, on Star Treon and, having set his sights on Earth, Sedit during the last six months had left immense carnage and vile (abominable) destruction in his wake, before, quite recently absconding (fleeing) to this remote region and then taking refuge (hiding) within the enchanted (magical, protected), inhospitable dark forest.

Longze two days earlier, on his routine reconnaissance had flown through the clouds over the said forest. Quite by chance spotting the elusive demon panther’s sometimes ally (contact) red tailed fox spirit, sneakily crossing into this segment of the forest, Longze had tracked her progress, deeming the fox spirit being up to no good, as well, hoping that she would eventually lead him to demon panther Sedit’s current recondite (abstruse) hideout (lair, den).

Suddenly, once more, the violent winds shook the walls of the cabin so powerfully (mightily) that Longze worried (fretted) whether the precarious structure would stand the next onslaught or simply collapse, tumble over their heads. He of course was beyond harming but the frail mortal girl before him could seriously be harmed. Strangely enough, he felt intensely protective of this girl; just then the wind, the air rushing through whistled through the chinks and crannies of the old building, while from the garden came the mournful howling of wolves, followed by the sudden cry of an owl. An owl? That was an impossibility in this part of the forest?

Longze noted that Freya was still very much frightened and beset with worry; and so, trying his best to distract (divert)her mind and ease her anxiety and concerns- he smiled at her reassuringly and then he repeated his prior request to learn of her story and her troubles, so that he may better assist her in resolving it.

The wind and the raging storm at outside, had indeed re-hashed (re-kindled) Freya’s apprehension (fretfulness) about her father Hans Aquila. Thinking of him forlorn, lost or injured somewhere in the wilderness- therefore, feeling sorrow to the quick, her eyes had defiantly brimmed with fresh tears; however, next instant defiantly, angrily, she had wiped her eyes and resumed her story:

"I am the daughter of a most wonderful, heroic warrior that was long ago falsely accused of a crime he did not commit and was banished to the edge of this Kingdom. He was stripped of his former status, disowned by his father and worst of it, his wife who was not my mother, formally divorced him and later married to his ardent foe. Subsequently, with not a single coin on him, with just clothes on his back, he was driven from the state. Yet he survived, hoping one day to clear his name and regain his honor. He never told me of the details of the crime, though I had implored him countless times, to tell me of it. Each time he would promise me that he would one day reveal all to me when passed my eighteenth birthday. As time went by however, he was disheartened, and burying the past completely in his subconscious, he (let go) also entirely forsook any notion of retribution. Meanwhile, my father’s travels had at one point led him to this inhospitable region. Furthermore, he had successfully bypassed all the blocks and barriers which had made this region impenetrable and chanced on this very remote village that had been permanently, for a decade, closed to all outsiders. He had succeeded where only few hardy warriors in a decade had done and unwittingly discover the hidden Village in this most inaccessible sector, well hidden from any civilized world.”

“The stringent rules were explained to him by the chief elders, and he was given the choice to either forfeit his life by his own sword (blade) that instant, or accept to immerse in their community, culture, by living henceforth, as one of them. It was made clear to him that once he accepted to live there, he would be forever forbidden to leave and would remain hidden from the rest of the world, for the rest of his life. He accepted the choice to stay, which of course, came with a trial period. He had to first prove he was worthy to be one of them (for the immersion into their group). After a gruelling inquisition and hair-rising tests, recognising his prowess’s and valuable mantle (mantle, role), they had accepted him into their folds. He was warned however of their very extensive rigid rules which meant no second chances and, any violation meant his immediate demise. After he had became a citizen, he eventually met my mother when she tended to his serious wounds from a hunting accident. She was beautiful, good hearted, and excellent heeler; to cut the story short, because she was so good, he could not help but fall in love with her and they were married soon after. Then first my brother Alec and then I was born.” 

05- HANS AQUILA  GONE ON HUNT (13)JP

“Winter months are (harsh) most severe in this region and so, my father wanting to secure us some meat for the duration, left on his final hunt, before the onset of winter, some days prior. “Freya lowered her head as she with a trembling voice next said: “He had been absent for unusually long time; he should have returned well before this day. Fearing the worse, but then suddenly hearing the melody of your flute, and hoping you had seen my father, I ventured into the forest to accost you and thus happened to come here.”

“My brother Alec was lost to us recently; I cannot bear to have my father be lost to me as well! How can I exist, without them? I still grieve for my brother Alec’s absence; but I know it in my heart he is still alive somewhere. He cannot be dead, otherwise I would have known it…I would sense it deep in my heart! That said, I miss him so terribly. In the mornings when it rains and, in the evenings, when the winds are fierce, I longed for him to be not at outside vulnerable and at the mercy of elements, but instead, to once more be seated besides me near the hearth, sheltered, safe and warm, us chatting about (talking of) this and that.”

As Longze with undivided attention listened to her story, inwardly however, he had quietly questioned whether the young warrior he had saved and is now convalescing in a cave could be her brother Alec. What if he is not; he should not give her hope, only to disappoint her, if he proved not to be him. Meanwhile, he should search for her father, and find out if he is all right or, if in trouble, rescue him also, before it is too late. Longze then quietly hoped and prayed, that Hans Aquila had not, not at any point (chanced) encountered the demon Sedit.

 

 

(END OF PART 6)

 

 

(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 5)

Jedrick and his guard, despite the length of time and the grueling trek they had spent searching in the depths of the forest, had failed to see any sign of Freya; meanwhile, to his deep consternation Jedrick had realized that they both at present had inadvertently and utterly lost their bearing. Thus, for a while now, mindful of the predatory beasts, both brandishing their swords, had advanced with vigilant caution, hoping to retrace their steps back to the edge of the forest and be freed from this dire predicament. Instead, with each step they took, without knowing it, they had delved in deeper and got lost in the darkest parts of the forest. Their circumstance growing dire by each passing moment, at one point they had found themselves surrounded by armed bandits.

01- JEDRICK BIJARKE CAPTURED BY BANDITS (7)JP

Obviously, Jedrick and his guard had fought dauntlessly, boldly even; however, they were outmatched both in numbers and competence.  For these were no ordinary bandits, they had clearly supernatural legerdemain (adroitness, skill) and they fought with unusual deftness (dexterity, precision). Jedrick and the guard did not stand a chance in besting (suppressing) them and before long, they were utterly defeated.

The ensnared (captured, trapped) Jedrick and the guard, were bound with ropes and then roughly carted away (lugged, carried off) to the bandit’s lair to, later that afternoon be thrown at the feet of their chief now seated in his impressive chair (on a dais), to await judgement.

02- JEDRICK TAKEN PRISONER (1)JP

What Jedrik and the guard did not know however, was that these bandits were all demons in human form and that their chief was non other than the trickster Panther demon, Sedit who now called himself Loki.

Demon Sedit, having utterly decimated (destroyed) the last place in bloody carnage and reduced all to ash, however, still ardently being pursued, had temporarily taken refuge in this dark forest.  

03- DEVIL PANTHER  SEDIT(16)

Chancing on the bandits in his pseudo human form as a helpless and lost merchant, he had allowed them to take him to their lair (den), then once there, he had absorbed (eaten) their souls but kept their mortal physical forms; thus enslaved, Sedit utilized these now demon bandits in human shells (appearances), to meet his varied needs.

Sedit (Loki) had chosen to for a brief time, linger in this forsaken forest, finding much to satisfy his hankering for carnage (slaughter), and wanting to have some respite from his ardent pursuers, as well have, bit of fun.

After Jedrick and the guard had been captured and dumped into the holding cell of this pit of evil, the guard, without delay was assimilated by the Demon Chief; however, Loki found himself rather intrigued with the arcane (esoteric, obstruse) malevolent aura which had surrounded Jedrick.  Wishing to learn more of it, Loki for the time being had opted not to absorb (eat) Jedrick’s soul, therefore, allowing him still to maintain his human foibles and be the source of his amusement. Furthermore, in his pseudo role as the ruling human Chieftain, Loki, after he had questioned Jedrick at length, and finding there much to engross (hold, engage) him, he then recruited Jedrick on the spot, as his second in command.

04- JEDRICK RECRUITED AS SECOND IN COMMAND (3)JP

 ~

 

Given that since time immemorial, there’d been an eternal struggle between forces of good and evil; however, Heaven had always protected and guided the good and pure souls- by quirk of fate, Freya had taken a different path from Jedrick’s and thus escaped, albeit temporarily, the Demon Sedit (Loki).

Meantime, unaware of the existing varied perils in these woodlands Freya, had resiliently and in safety, had persisted with her arduous trek, traversing over the uneven ground, in search of her father or that stranger; though, now as the rain fell more heavily, the ancient trees towering to great heights, functioned as an umbrella and, shielded her from the worst of the downpours.

Gradually the ground of her lonely trail, being soddened (saturated) by deluge runoffs from the sides, it turned into sucking mud; therefore, she stumbled occasionally, her foot sliding over the moss-covered rocks or boulders partially imbedded in that narrow goas’ paths, scraping her knees, calves or shins.

Freya stopped now and then to catch her breath and wring her sleeves, which were by then weighed her down being wet with rain as well as her tears. So absorbed was Freya in the thought of finding her father, or the stranger, that she hardly noticed that there was an ethereal(otherworldly) silence in the woods and there was a total absence of predatory animals or insects and that the air was totally stilled. Outside of this protective bubble, she noted that the storm now gave signs of lifting... Then, abruptly, it had altogether ceased, the clouds cleared and the silvery moon shone brightly in the sky. The change in the atmosphere (weather) at last roused Freya to look about her, and she saw that the path up ahead appeared clear of debris and furthermore, was illuminated by the moonlight.

05- DRAGON LONGZE ON NIGHT RECONNAISANCE

Subsequently, she had walked, endlessly, her trail (route) strangely still illuminated by the obliging rays of the full moon, when she suddenly spotted at distance ahead, a single white ray of light that glowed through the dense trees and the nocturnal gloom. Where such light existed, there had to be a dwelling of a sort. And surely, they must have encountered (had a brush with) her father and therefore know of his present whereabouts; thus, the kernel of hope sprung anew in her heart, she eagerly hastened her steps as best as she was able, towards the light and the presumed dwelling.

Soon as the odd, fenced cabin positioned in the shadow of a group of pines, fully visible now came into view, her heart palpitated with wild enthusiasm and hope; because, from within the structure, emanated just then the akin enchanting melody from a flute.

Freya hastened her steps to open the latch of the wooden gate of the encircling fence that was fallen in about two places and needed repair; then, she unwaveringly stepped inside the fenced garden that was overgrown with weeds. The full moon once more peeking from the clouds, its silvery rays just then had made everything visible; she noted how the weed that grew all over the garden and between the flagstones of a winding path, was quite undisturbed, as if no one had trod (trespassed over) it for a long while.  The posts which supported the inner moon-gate had two menacing gargoyles posted (perched) on top; they had suddenly, just then, swayed a trivial fraction in the wind, making the gargoyles appear as though both were alive.

06- GARGOYLES

Freya halting for a moment, exhaled a deep, slow breath from her lungs, then stoically brushed aside the fretfulness that the gargoyles were watching, judging, and assessing her measure; undeterred, she thenceforth quickly bypassed the moon-gate, swiftly climbed the four steps of the porch and then, knocked on the heavy wooden door.

The melody emanating from the cabin had ceased instantly, though, response was slow in coming; for not until she had knocked and called out twice did, she hear any stirring within. Afterwards someone had answered in a subdued voice, and then the nob turned, and the door opened ajar (about an inch).

A beautiful handsome young face of about twenty, with chiseled aristocratic features, peered out from the opening; at first, he did not speak, however, and his keen silvery, light- blue eyes for a spell (moment or two) registering shock and awe, he scrutinized her.

Freya’s breath had caught the very moment her eyes had fallen on his strikingly handsome face; but more than that, her heart skipped a beat, knowing for certain now- though at present, he was clad in a different, plain attire- that he was the very one, that had prior manifested at the edge of the forest.  This young man had the same long, pale white, blond hair, loosely draping (cascading) over his shoulders and reaching his waist; but what struck her most, seeing him up close, was his almost luminescent, alabaster, flawless, unusually pale (whitish, pastel), porcelain skin and those intense, brilliant silver light blue eyes, which shone like the stars and now, they were keenly (acutely) affixed on her, as though trying to decipher if in fact she was real.

07- DRAGON LONGZE (37)

The young man’s initial reaction of being startled thereafter had given way to surreptitious elation (euphoria, excitement); contrasting with his outward composed demeanor, he was inwardly in fact, thrilled by this most unexpected encounter and his eyes which were presently holding Freya’s gaze, conveyed a gentle, yet deeply awe-struck curiosity.

Then momentarily however, a fleeting dark shadow passed over his face, so slight that Freya had entirely missed it; nevertheless, he had quickly dismissed it, choosing instead to revel in this unexpected gift; or was this simply, another (imparted) test, from his ever-vigilant guardian Asmund?

No sooner had this query crossed Longze’s mind that, his keen senses had detected just then a slight chuckle from somewhere beyond, but this too was swiftly brushed aside, deciding not to dwell on it.

Meanwhile he had continued to in silence, astutely register (commit), every minute detail of her features, to his lasting memory.

08- FREYA SEEN THROUGH LONGZE'S EYES

Freya on her part, was so taken by the young man’s handsome, noble bearing, that for a long while meeting those memorizing pupils with akin intense zeal, she had held his gaze, as she concurrently (at the same time) cogitated: This very night she had followed an unusual compulsion, acted recklessly, ventured out in the rain, and entered the forest at dusk. Had she not ventured out and taken all these heedless, rash chances; she would not have encountered this enchanting being.

Subsequently, with furrowed brow, she strove to understand (to analyse) this inexplicable, precipitous feeling, that had tinted her cheeks with crimson hue, making her thus, even lovelier to look at.  Besides, she hardly knew him, they were two virtual strangers having only met short time ago, and, by sheer coincidence. Was she alone in this, being so affected? An unusual compulsion pushed her to learn, whether he felt the same?

In fact, both had been inwardly querying if the other akin had been struck with this intense feeling, that the felt attraction was mutual?

Earlier that day, he had noted her presence from afar but never dared to be at this proximity, yet here she was standing inches from him; moreover, he had noted complete lack (absence) of fear in her. Longze felt silly, remembering just then, that he was after all, in human form.

 

 (END OF PART 5)

 

  

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)