THE DRAGON OF LOSHY HILL

(A folklore retold by BoSt)

The Dragon of Loshy Hill or Nunnington dragon is a legendary beast from the folklore of Yorkshire, England.

This dragon had a terrible temper and a voracious(rapacious) appetite for meat; resultantly, wherever he went, he waylaid death and devastation in his path. Unfortunately, non of the numerous brave warriors and knights in the kingdom that had set out to destroy this bane (curse), had ever succeeded or returned alive. For this terrible dragon was known for having a deadly tongue with a poisonous lethal outcome and teeth that were reputed to be equal to the size of pitchfork prongs.

Peter Loschy was a handsome young warrior with long blond hair, blue-grey eyes, and a stunning (splendid, striking) physique (build, form, body). On his eighteenth birthday, this adventurous, heroic warrior, breaking many (girl’s) damsel’s hearts, set out on a quest to rid the kingdom, once and for all, of this terrible scourge. 

At the time of his departure, Peter’s reverent grandfather, quietly pulled him aside and presented him with a rare, an heirloom gift, one his grandfather had inherited long time ago but had never used, as he was an intellectual, a scholarly sort. These legendary blades plus the heirloom sword held a special significance, as they had had both been secretly fashioned (crafted) by capable silversmiths, from the metal meteorite that had long ago fallen to Earth.

Peter Loschy was ecstatic and remained speechless, understanding the true value of this gesture.

Short time later, armed with this advantage (wearing the suit of armour that was studded with sharp blades (vanes, fins) and brandishing his sword, the very picture of a legendary hero, he bid his farewells to his kinfolk and galloped his horse into the distance.

Peter stanchly (resolutely) sought and valiantly confronted the dreaded dragon; after a deadly bout (turn), the dragon getting the upper hand, at one point coiled around Peter, intending to finish him off. The mighty dragon unfortunately, instead, was cut to pieces by the especially durable blades; these serious lacerations (tears, gashes) caused the dragon intense pain.

Despite the foe dragon’s rising ire and consequential powerful strikes, Peter with agility, moreover, dealt the dragon two strategic stabs (thrust), the Loschy’s sword blade penetrating that hard outer shell of the dragon, to reach major organs. But the Nunnington dragon had the power of regeneration; and so, he kept repairing and reconnecting the severed parts, to become whole again.

Varying his strategy, Peter this time hacked away at dragon’s tongue, until it was mostly gone, and the dragon had finally expired. Each instance (whilst) Peter’s faithful hound had carried the pieces of the tongue to a hill about a mile away, this prevented any chance of its (tongue’s) regeneration.

It is said that the hound was so happy to serve his master that after completing the task he licked his master's face. Alas this served as an ill-omen for both of them, with the poison taking hold.

Both (Peter and his hound) are said to be buried in Nunnington Church.

Fin

 

 THE QILIN AND THE THREE KILLINGS IN 2025

On the 3 rd of February 2025, we will enter the year of the Yin Wood Snake (Yi Si), marking a new yearly pillar and also a new path of Annual Flying stars in our home for the year ahead.

Last year’s entrance into period 9 Feng Shui had caused a big shift for most of us either good or bad; rest assured, in 2025 the energies will be a lot more settled, which can then make the Snake year a very exciting and a productive year! The Yin Wood Snake year 2025 is expected to bring resolution and resilience; hence, some of the world’s issues should be eased.

Bear in mind, the Yin Wood Years tends to bring steady growth, especially with regards to finances; therefore, all outgoings, purchases and investments should be handled with care in 2025.

It is part of Feng Shui practice to ascertain the direction of the Three Killings each year. This direction, also known as the Saam Saat, always occupies one of the four cardinal sectors-North, South, East or West and the affliction that covers 90 degrees of the compass. In this year, The Year of the Yin Wood Snake, the Three Killings are in the East.  It is imperative hence, that you do not carry out any noisy activity, renovation, or construction, conduct maintenance work or digging with noisy equipment inside or outside your property or workplace in this direction.  Once disturbed, this affliction will bring about three types of misfortunes: financial loss, sickness and arguments. If this is unavoidable you should place a six hollow metal rod wind chime between the building and where the work is being carried out and for a few days after. This is especially important for the oldest son and males, although this will affect all occupants of the household and workplace when activated.

If you have a door located in the east this year, please take great care when opening and closing the door to ensure it is not slammed. Avoid the influence of the Three Killings by opening and shutting the door calmly or installing a soft close hinge.

Another important thing to remember this year is that, when seated in your office or at home you must avoid having the East behind you. Confronting the Three Killings will not hurt you but having them behind you will.

Finally, if you can, place three Qilins (Chi Lings), especially if they are metal, in the in the quadrant (where metal element is considered good) such as SE, NE or South, facing East (where the Three Killings is located) in 2025. This will effectively restrain and prevent the killing Chi from harming you.

Qilin is a mystical hoofed chimerical creature, often depicted with what looks like fire all over its body. It has the head of Dragon and the body of horse. It represents protection, prosperity, success, longevity and illustrious offspring.  It is a good omen that brings ruì (roughly translated as “serenity” or “prosperity”). The QIlin (sometimes misleadingly called the “Chinese unicorn” due to Western influence) is believed to manifest upon the occasion of an imminent person’s arrival, or when a wise sage or an illustrious ruler has departed.

The earliest references to the Qilin were in the 5^th century BC, in the book of Zuo Zhuan. In its historical account we are told that after Zheng He’s voyage to the East Africa around the area of modern-day Kenya, he had brought back two giraffes to the emperor in Nanjing. The giraffes were thereafter referred to as Qilins (Chi Lings).  The Qilin and the giraffe was both vegetarian and shared a quiet nature on top of their reputed ability to “walk on grass without disturbing it”. Furthermore, the Qilin were described as having antlers like a deer and scales like a dragon or fish whereas the giraffe had horn-like “ossicones” on its head and a tessellated coat pattern that looked like scales. Even today the giraffe is still called Girin by Koreans and Kirin by the Japanese.

Back then the emperor had proclaimed the giraffe as a magical creature, whose capture signified the greatness of his power. By the time of the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) the original Qilins were long gone. In the subsequent legends their appearance took on a more stylized representation of the giraffe, becoming mixed with some attributes of the tiger, dragon and other animals. The Ming artisans represented the Qilin as an oxen-hoofed animal with a dragon-like head surmounted by a pair of horns with flame-like head ornaments and a scaled body.  Sometimes the creature is depicted with a single horn on its forehead, a multicolored back, and hooves of a horse, body of a deer and the tail of an ox.

During the Manchu Qing dynasty (1644–1911) the Qilin (Chi Ling) was depicted as having the head of a dragon, the antlers of a deer, the skin and scales of a fish, the hooves of an ox and tail of a lion.

The Qilin’s attributes are:

Though fearsome, the Qilin only punishes the wicked. Its manifestation bespeaks of a wise and benevolent leader in a country or even a household. Being such a peaceful creature when it walks on grass or vegetation it takes care not to trample a single blade or step on any living thing. A Qilin is said to be able to walk on water. If a pure person is threatened by an obvious culprit the Qilin transforms into a fierce creature, spouting flames from its mouth and displays other fearsome aspects.

Legends have accounted for Qilin’s being manifest in the garden of the famed Huangdi and in the capital of Emperor Yao. The birth of the great sage Confucius had also been presaged by the appearance of a Qilin (Chi Ling).

Note: Before the Qin Dynasty, during the Zhou dynasty, Qilin ranked higher than the Dragon or Phoenix. Qilin was first, the Phoenix ranked second and the Dragon third. In the Post-Qin Chinese hierarchy of mythical animals however, in some fables where the Qilin (Chi Ling)was depicted as the sacred pet of the deities, Qilin ranked the third after the dragon and phoenix. In Japan (Qilin) Kirin are portrayed as a dragon shaped like a deer with an ox’s tail, and they preserved their importance, with the Phoenix placed second and the Dragon third.

                                             ~                                       

Finally, if you have an important or commonly used room that falls into the east this year, you will need to make sure that you activate the (Feng Shui’s) annual flying star #9 correctly, which is also in the East this year. An extremely strong cure to enhance the annual #9 in 2025 is an Jinyuyingmen Red and Gold Buddha which strengthens the fire influence of this auspicious star in home and workplace, therefore, ensuring that wealth and overall luck prospects are as powerful as possible despite the Three Killings being also located here.

If you have a bedroom or office in the east this year, this is good news as these rooms usually have yin energy, which is nice and still allows you to avoid issues from the Three Killings.  Though, if you experience relationship issues this year, check that you don’t have an excess of water or earth colors and elements—such as brown, terracotta, beige, yellow, black, grey, or blue in this area. Small amounts are acceptable but try to avoid overusing these colors in 2025. For those trying to conceive, sleeping in the east can boost fertility, especially with a red Kwan Yin placed in this area to enhance supportive energy.

When activated, the #9 star can bring new career opportunities and advancements in 2025. To enhance this energy, introducing fire and wood elements in this area, candles and healthy plants are excellent choices. However, always ensure that candles are not left burning unattended, and keep plants fresh and well-maintained to sustain positive energy throughout the year. The most crucial and powerful cure to place in the east palace in 2025 is the Gaojie Quannian Master Cure. This powerful amulet and protective talisman cure is placed to enhance the annual #9 wealth and career star, which has become the prominent wealth star during period 9 Flying star Feng Shui from the 4th of February 2024 until the 3rd of February 2044.  

 

BEST OF LUCK AND STAY SAFE IN 2025

PIXIU OR PI YAO in 2025

POSITION OF PIXIU OR PI YAO IN 2025

Pi Yao (PIxiu) is a Chinese mythical hybrid creature considered to be a very powerful protector by Feng Shui practitioners. It resembles a winged lion. Pixiu is an earth and sea variation, a particularly influential and auspicious creature for wealth. Fierce looking and covered with whitish-grey fur, Pixiu has the head of a Chinese dragon.

Ancient Chinese depictions of Pixiu showed two different types of Pixiu. The difference is with their horns; the male has the single antler, and the female two. The male with one horn is called Tian Lu (Pi Chen) and female with two horns is known as Pi Ya. Tian Lu is in charge of wealth and displaying Tian Lu at home or in the office is said to prevent wealth from flowing away. Another interesting note is the belief that common wingless Pixiu assists in seeking wealth while a winged Pixiu assists students in furthering their studies.

As with the Chinese Phoenix, the common image of Pi Yao (Pixiu) has undergone change and today it is represented as a single sex. Pixiu has protruding eyes and sharp teeth. Its body resembles a Chinese lion and the legs of Pixiu are those of a Qilin. Looking at the posture of the Pixiu, the creature seems to project a sense of strength, elegance and mobility. Pixiu’s obvious characteristic is its fat body which indicates a full stomach loaded with unlimited amounts of good fortune. It has a single horn on its head and a pair of wings. Likewise, it has a big open mouth ready to gobble up fortune. Because of this a Pixiu statue is often employed in the home as a way of receiving and keeping fortune.

Pixiu is ranked 5th in the order of mythical beings, behind the dragon, phoenix, winged horse and sea horse.  Ancient architecture often displayed Pixiu to ward off Yin Qi (bad fortune). The statues of a Pixiu are typically seen on the four corners of the roofs of houses, particularly those of influential people such as the emperor. In ancient China, statues of Pixiu were also used as tomb guardians.

The myth behind the Pi Yao (Pixiu) is that the creature at one time had violated the law of Heaven, and so the Jade Emperor had punished Pixiu by restricting its diet to gold. Thus, Pixiu can only absorb gold, but cannot expel it. This is the origin of Pixiu’s status as a symbol of the acquisition and preservation of wealth. It is said to have a voracious appetite for only gold and silver. Therefore, traditionally to the Chinese, Pixiu has always been regarded as an auspicious creature that possessed mystical power capable of drawing Cai Qi (good fortune) from all directions.

Displaying a Pi Ya at the affected area of the house or office can avoid misfortune and disasters. The Pi Ya must be placed facing away from the house. For displaying at openings or entrances a pair of Pi Ya is needed.

Tian Lu is used for attracting wealth. One place is in the designated wealth area to attract wealth or accumulate wealth. Do not place Tian Lu facing any person directly on in a confrontational position. Ideally Tien Lu should not be placed on the floor, but it definitely should never be placed above eye level.

One cannot touch the face and head of the "Pixiu," because the touch of an ordinary person would ruin their wealth.

Pixiu (Pi Yao), a fierce creature has large fangs, visible in the creature’s mouth, with which it attacks demons and evil spirits, draining their essence and converting it to wealth. Pi Ya is useful therefore in warding off evil.  

Pixiu is also believed to guard against disease caused by evil spirits. Furthermore, Pi Ya has the ability of assisting anyone who is suffering from bad Feng Shui due to having offended the Grand Duke Jupiter (Tai Sui).

Tai Sui is very fond of his pet, the Pi Yao. You may appease Tai Sui therefore, by placing a Pi Yao or Dragon-headed Tortoise in the Northeast sector (where metal element is good in 2025) of the home or office facing Tai Sui Wu Sui (The Grand Duke of Jupiter) which resides in the southeast in 2025. For this cure, the placement of the Pi Yao should be obvious and not hidden from view, and there must be a metal element involved. Metal here refers to real gold and strong metal. The secret behind this cure is that the "Tai Sui mantra" must accompany the Pi Yao for maximum effectiveness. It actually refers to a set of Chinese incantation of the Tai Sui. This mantra had been used for centuries to help one overcome the wrath of Tai Sui. 

Tai Sui appeasing mantra

(The "Long Pi" pictured on either side of the duke is a traditional cure used by old time master’s to resolve shar from the Tai Sui. The big wings signify their ability to fly high and reach greater heights/goals. Inviting them to space will ease your efforts in diminishing obstructions. You will then gain a full grip and better control over your fortune and luck. It has the ability to transform negative chi into positive, overcome obstacles, prevent annual dangers caused to zodiacs, subdue bad luck, combat bodily harm and terminate stress.)

Fin

TAI SUI (THE GRAND DUKE OF JUPITER) WU SUI, RESIDES IN SOUTHEAST IN 2025 

On the 3 rd of February 2025, begins the year of the Yin Wood Snake (Yi Si), marking a new yearly pillar and also a new path of Annual Flying stars, for the year ahead.

Tai Sui Wu Sui (The Grand Duke of Jupiter) – is in the southeast (142.5 - 157.5) in 2025

Tai Sui, Grand Duke of Jupiter or also known as “General of Time Gods” (Yin Jiao), is a very important aspect of Chinese Astrology, wielding significant influence over fortune, health, and luck. Tai Sui refers to stars directly opposite to Jupiter and sometime refers to the rotation of Jupiter. In any case they are known to influence the Chinese zodiac and are involved in religious Taoism and Feng Shui.

The Chinese Lunar Year Cycle has 60 years, and according to Taoist belief, there are sixty heavenly generals one of whom is the Year Authority, or Tai Sui, who is rotated within the 60 Jia Zi (Jupiter stars). Each has the duty of observing and managing the hour, day, month and year, as well as governing every heavenly body in the sky. They assist the Jade Emperor in taking charge of the well-being of the Mortal World. Each of them takes turn being in charge for a year at which time they are known as that year’s specific Tai Sui. Due to most of them having a military background and having an intangible energy body of War-like nature they are normally known as the Military Generals, or as the Cycle Gods.   Each of their attributes and weapons signifies the well-being of that year. For example, if the Tai Sui of the year is one who holds a pen it signifies political unrest for that particular year. On the other hand, if the Tai Sui of the year holds a spear or sword it signifies the need to work hard and excel for that year. Each year’s Tai Sui has the commanding post wielding his authority over all other deities for that particular year, the sole exception being The Jade Emperor. 

Suffice it to say; with such immense power and influence, no one dares to offend Tai Sui. At this juncture I would like to also add that Tai Sui (Grand Duke Jupiter) has usually been misunderstood as the dreaded punisher whereas, in fact, he is engaged by Heaven to tend to any mishaps and disasters and provide protection. A person's bliss, health, luck and misfortune are all governed under the care of Tai Sui. Pay heed, Tai Sui will note the good deeds and misdeeds of people and so bestow (exact, impose, dole out) rewards or punishments accordingly.

                                                                                         ~

This year’s Grand Duke Jupiter (Tai Sui) is General Wu Sui. He was a (wise and compassionate) scholar and magistrate during the Song Dynasty, renowned for his keen intellect and ability to solve even the most complex cases. His reputation, for being meticulous in thoroughly analyzing evidence, made him highly sought after by other magistrates who often requested assistance; thus, he was promoted to governor of Xiuning County.

During his tenure, a severe drought struck the region. General Wu Sui, determined to help his people, spent three days and nights praying at the temple. His prayers were answered, and rain fell on his county, while neighboring regions remained parched, leading to famine and chaos.

Despite fires, looting and widespread suffering in surrounding areas, Wu Sui’s County had furthermore thrived; this was due to Governor Wu Sui’s subsequent, apt measures. Through tax exemptions and relief efforts, peace and stability had been maintained, making his province a rare haven of order during such catastrophic (calamitous) times.   

                                                                                         ~                                                                                                                         

Moving on: each Tai Sui is linked to a specific direction, leading to potential conflicts with certain zodiac animals. These conflicts arise from the cosmic alignment and can significantly affect individuals' energy fields. Those in conflict with or offending Tai Sui may face adverse effects, impacting their health, finances, and relationships.

The effects of Tai Sui's influence aren’t just fleeting - they linger throughout the entire year, potentially turning one’s plans upside down if one is not careful.

Those whose Chinese Zodiac offends, or by their sign clash with the Tai Sui of the year, are advised to go through a prayer session with a Taoist Priest to ask for blessing in obtaining Peace and Good Fortune throughout the year. If for whatever reason one can’t do this then there are Talismans for protection against Tai Sui.

Chinese Zodiac signs that clashes with Tai Sui (WU SUI) in the Year of the Wood Snake 2025 are:

1-Snake - Conflict.  People born in the Year of the Snake will experience a year that is generally marked by challenges, including career difficulties.  Expect setbacks and obstacles that may hinder progress.  Tensions are likely to arise within family relationships. A decline in health is possible, with a higher risk of accidents or misfortunes.  The Snake should maintain a positive attitude and keep forging ahead despite challenges. Focus on emotional control and reconciliation to create a more favorable environment, as trust can lead to wealth and stability.

2. Tiger – Harm - Individuals born in the Year of the Tiger will be in a harmful position with Tai Sui in 2025, which can lead to tense (strained) interpersonal relationships, with increased likelihood of misunderstandings and conflicts. Existing health problems may become more pronounced.  The Tiger therefore should approach challenges with optimism and focus on maintaining harmonious relationships with loved ones. Prioritize family unity to enhance overall fortune.

3. Pig - Conflict with Tai Sui - Those born in the Year of the Pig will face a significant conflict with Tai Sui in 2025, characterized by major Changes. Expect notable shifts in various aspects of life, serious impacts on financial stability and overall health and a likelihood of feeling depressed or experiencing financial crises. Pig should therefore exercise caution in all their actions and decisions, avoid unnecessary conflicts and resistance to navigate through the year safely.

4. Monkey - Torturing Tai Sui - and Destruction of Tai Sui -Individuals born in the Year of the Monkey will face a dual clash with Tai Sui in 2025, encompassing both torturing and destructive influences. Expect financial challenges, increased risk of financial instability and crises. Tensions may arise due to the punitive nature of this year; hence, the monkey should focus on managing finances carefully to avoid falling into debt or financial difficulties.

By understanding these dynamics and taking proactive measures, those who clash with Tai Sui in 2025 can mitigate potential misfortunes and enhance their overall well-being throughout the year.

Here are few precautions to keep in mind, for all the Chinese Zodiac (Animal) signs:

Like all the annual afflictions, Tai Sui does not like being disturbed. The effects of Tai Sui can be good or bad depending on the annual flying stars that coincide with its location. If your front door is in the southeast during 2025, please try to avoid slamming the door as much as possible as this is a very quick way to anger Tai Sui. If you have a main bedroom or living space in the southeast this year, try to keep noise levels to normal volume and avoid playing the TV or music so loud that you can’t easily speak over the top of it. Avoid sitting or sleeping with your head pointing towards Southeast. Also do not directly confront Tai Sui in the dining room and at work, but it’s okay to have your back facing him. Conflicting with Tai Sui can invite disruptions, so it's crucial to take necessary precautions to avoid the adverse effects.  

It’s imperative to keep the Southeast sector calm and quiet. Avoid loud noises, disturbances, and construction work during this period. No renovations, repairs, digging, or even hammering a small nail in the Southeast, of home or office. Avoid sitting at desk and facing Southeast.

The traditional method to appease Tai Sui for the year of the Snake, regardless of zodiac sign, is to place a Wu Sui Tai Sui gold plated plaque or Pi Yao in the southeast of your home or workplace throughout the whole of 2025. This powerful symbol invites his support and protection throughout the year. Also, by paying respect to the Grand Duke of Jupiter, we can weaken or avoid the problems this can bring.

You may also carry protective amulets or talismans designed for the year, such as the Tai Sui Amulet 2025 or the Brass Feng Shui Piyao Biting Coin Amulet. Keeping a Tai Sui Metal Card 2025 or Tai Sui Card 2025 in your purse or wallet serves as an additional safeguard against negative influences.

Here are few more dos and don’ts for managing Tai Sui Conflicts:

Maintain Your Vehicle: Regularly check and service your car to ensure safe driving and prevent accidents. When driving, hang a Colorful Liuli Pair of Piyao Tassel or a Yellow Liuli Pair of Piyao Feng Shui Tassel in your car to ensure a safe journey.

Help others whenever possible to cultivate goodwill and remain in their favor. This generosity can create a protective buffer against potential challenges. Cultivate a positive mindset and steer clear negative thoughts. The law of attraction can influence your experiences significantly. Engage in happy gatherings and celebrations to soak up positive energies.

Limit Visits to Hospitals and Funerals: Try to avoid these places during this time, as they can bring negative energies.

Steer clear of high-risk investments, career changes, and extreme sports that could lead to unnecessary challenges.

If accessible, visiting a Tai Sui temple for prayers and offerings, especially on the 8th day of the first lunar month, can help secure Tai Sui’s favor.

Important Reminder: Tai Sui, as the God of the Year, changes annually. Do not reuse any Tai Sui amulets, plaques, or keychains from previous years. Instead, respectfully wrap them in paper, express gratitude for their past protection, and dispose of them properly.

 

Fin

 

HEROIC PRINCE STEZOR AND THE DRAGON

 

HEROIC PRINCE STEZOR AND THE DRAGON

(Story by BoSt-  BoSt rendition of an old legend, a popular Serbian fairy tale)

 

In the far-off land of Orownoz the enlightened and fair-minded King Zonen was at his wits end; his once peaceful kingdom was plagued by a terrible curse. Every now and then a sheep, ox or peasant would go missing without a trace.

Occasional patches of scorched land appearing hither and yon fostered a fearful rumour, though none who had cast their eyes upon it had lived to tell, that a fire breathing dragon was the source of this bane. 

In order to rid the land of this terrible scourge many brave warriors were dispatched to the four corners of the kingdom; but all attempts at finding the beast were in vain and the numbers of peasants, sheep and oxen continued to wane along with a corresponding number of brave warriors. The outcome was always the same: they all vanished without a trace, leaving only scorched earth to mark their passing.

King Zonen had three exceptional sons. The eldest son, Joren, was a mighty warrior and an accomplished swordsman and archer. On numerous occasions he had undertaken the dangerous task of ridding the kingdom of this dragon but had always returned empty handed and in dismay.

PRINCE JOREN

The latest foray had been a particularly close call, causing the King to forbid his favorite son from ever venturing out again on these dangerous excursions. Constrained from leaving the castle, Prince Joren when he retired to bed began seeing a strange dream. This recurring nightmare always followed the same sequence of events: he was hunting game when he saw a white hare and followed it but was never able to catch it.

For three consecutive nights the dream returned, haunting Joren’s peace of mind all during the day. The strangeness of the vision, however, precluded his sharing it with anyone and not even his closest confident his younger brother Prince Kezi, was told of this irritant. Then on the fourth morning, unable to stand it any longer, Joren rose well before the first light of day. Armed with his favorite bow and, with a quiver of arrows slung over his shoulder, Prince Joren charged forth from the main gate.

The prince rode as fast as his horse could gallop towards the thickly forested mountain that had its high peaks always hidden in the clouds. His dream sequence played out with uncanny accuracy when he chanced on the white hare and gave chase. The hare fled at lightning speed through the thick foliage, keeping just ahead of the Prince’s mount until the game path it was following abruptly ended in a thick cloud bank. Then, almost as if it did not want to escape the Prince’s pursuit, it slowed just enough, keeping in sight until they both had eventually passed through the unsettling miasma to emerge at a strange clearing. Hot on its heels, the Prince pursued the hare until it took refuge in a water-mill.

Dismounting, the prince followed it as it hopped up the stairs of the mill until it found a high window, inexplicably stopped and sat on the sill. By then the Prince was close enough to notch his bow and let fly the first arrow.

To his great consternation the arrow missed its mark, seemingly diverted from its path. As the Prince retrieved another arrow and was about to take aim the hare jumped out of the window then immediately began to grow in size then transform into a giant winged dragon that soared into the sky, disappearing into a thick mass of low clouds. When it manifested again it dove straight for Prince Joren who, with incredible prowess, let loose five consecutive arrows targeting the beast’s vital areas.

Unfortunately, though the metal tipped arrows did find their mark, they failed to penetrate the scales and fell harmlessly back to the ground. Before Prince Joren could string another arrow, he was scorched and then swiftly eaten by the mighty dragon and was no more.

When he failed to return and all traces of him had vanished from Earth, the King and Queen, surmising the worst, grieved endlessly for days for the terrible loss of their beloved son and heir. 

                                                                                          ~

The second Prince, Kezi, was an accomplished warrior excelling particularly in the skills of spear and dagger throwing and he never missed his mark. He always wore high boots specially designed to hold a set of daggers on the outer side. Unfortunately, growing under the shadow of popular Prince Joren, he’d always been seen as an underachiever.

Prince Kezi saw in this circumstance a golden opportunity to prove his prowess. And so at sunrise, accompanied by a small contingent of cavalry, the middle Prince passed through the gate vowing not to return till the scourge had been dealt with.

PRINCE KEZI

A week passed and, despite all expanded efforts, they could still not find any sign of this supposed Dragon. Yet the disappearances continued without letup. At dusk one day, after the campfire meal, while relieving himself at a secluded spot, Prince Kezi was lured away by the same white hare, only this time the rabbit turned into a strange apparition of a beautiful girl. He followed her willingly to a clearing beyond some tall, jagged rocks. When the apparition climbed to the top of the rocks, jumped off towards the Prince and, there and then, reverted to its true form as a fire breathing dragon. Next instant Prince Kezi’ was forced to cast aside his sword blazing to the hilt as it’d brushed with dragon fire.

 Then again being quick on his feet, in an instant he was able to retrieve his two daggers from his boots and, with lightening speed, hurled them at the beast. Unfortunately the fiery breath of the Dragon simply melted them in mid flight. Too bad his spear was not with him. He barely dodged the subsequent fire ball as he zigzagged as fast as he could towards safe ground. He was swift on his feet but before he could retreat to the safety of the crevices within those jagged rocks, he, too, was scorched and devoured by the Dragon in the blink of an eye.

                                                                                                    ~

His absence was also grieved by the King and Queen, but they saw no reason to take any precaution to prevent the third Prince, Stezor, from following suit. For, being the youngest and the favorite of the Queen, he’d been spoiled rotten and was spared the rigorous training of his siblings. Left pretty much to pursue his idle passions he’d often spend his days, to the dismay of the King, pursuing literary arts, and music or mind games.

But Prince Stezor did have a serious side which he, for whatever reason, chose to conceal. He had a deep understanding of warfare and strategy, as well as secret passion for attaining first-class competency in archery and swordsmanship. When a small meteor came into his possession, recognizing its true value at once, he had it covertly forged by the palace smith into a mighty sword.

PRINCE STEZOR

The young Prince Stezor had also a great foresight, and from the moment of the disappearance of his elder brother Joren, he had rightly predicted the actions of the second sibling Kezi and his inevitable doom. Subsequently, in his determination to avenge them he’d made secret preparations and, one stormy day at dusk, snuck out of the main gate perfectly disguised as a peasant leading a horse drawn cart. As soon as he was out of range of the sentry at the castle gate, he removed the concealed bundle from the cart, unhitched his horse and then hid the cart under some foliage. Now with the meteor sword slung across his back under his cape and sporting a small dagger in his left boot, he saddled the steed and set on in a cantor over the soggy ground.

He reached the rocky point, where Prince Kezi’s contingent had reported him missing, all in good time. Prince Stezor’s intent of investigating the grounds however was forestalled by a sudden heavy cloudburst and subsequent deluge, forcing him to take refuge in a nearby crevice. Prince Stezor passed the night rather uncomfortably listening to the howling winds and relentless downpour. At first daylight the remaining clouds were herded away by moderate winds allowing the sun’s rays to checker the soggy grounds. Prince Stezor was chewing on a piece of dry meat for his morning breakfast when he spotted the white hare beside some bushes. An uncontrollable urge propelled him to jump into the saddle and give chase after the white hare, which suddenly turned into a white stag.

The chase continued through an aberrant miasma that eventually led to a ravine that improbably existed in an anomaly in time and space. For one thing, midsummer seemed to be the prevailing season here. Heavily overgrown, the tall grass and strange flowers brushed against the horse’s withers as it chased after the white stag. Prince Stezor came to a quick realization just then how he’d utterly and hopelessly lost all tracks of time and place. Despite this disorientation and overwhelming exhaustion he relentlessly pressed on in pursuit. When the stag suddenly dove into the water-mill his keen survival instincts took hold and he dropped the chase. Maintaining his distance he cocked his head and his intent gaze surveyed the immediate perimeter. The grounds were thronging with thick foliage and strange bushes that seemed to harbour small game. Suddenly hunger pains gnawed at his stomach and he postponed the chase in favour of hunting the game.

                                                                                     ~

When, by mid- afternoon, he retraced his path back to the mill he spotted an old woman sitting there. With a cautious approach and a congenial manner, he soon engaged the old woman in a polite, and somewhat sincere, conversation.

The old woman told him how she, herself, had once been a lovely girl, and had been spared by the dragon. He had taken an unusual liking to her and so had tolerated her existence, much like a pet. Allowed to live nearby in a small hut, she had no living relations so obliged the dragon with a visit now and then. Feigning a modest interest Prince Stezor cajoled the old woman with intriguing notions about where the dragon’s secret strength lay. “You needn’t be so powerless, “He prompted her. “Dragons are known to have many wondrous powers. He’s been miserly with you, keeping you confined to this harsh and deprived environment. You can have a more magnificent existence, might even regain your youth, since Dragons have such magical power. Hmmm. I wonder if the dragon would reveal this secret if you managed to lure it to the location where it hides its powers and kissed it.”

After this exchange, the third prince thanked her for her kindness, gave her some of his game and, bidding her farewell, departed; but he did not ventured far. When the dragon failed to manifest at the mill Prince Stezor covertly trailed the old woman back to her hut. He hid within the vicinity for the rest of the day, continuing to spy on her activities. At dusk the dragon manifested by the hut and, as soon as its feet touch earth, took on a human form and invited himself inside. Prince Stezor stealthily approached the hut and through the crack of the window spied on the events transpiring inside.

After her repast the old woman, feeling obliged, did ask the precise words Prince Stezor had persuaded her to say. When the Dragon told her the fireplace, she began to kiss it. The dragon was highly amused by this, then told her it was the tree at the back of the hut. Again when she proceeded to kiss that, the dragon hollered with laughter. Then continuing with his good mood, seeing no reason to keep it from her, confessed to her that a distant Kingdom Voltaren had a lake, which was the dragon’s other residence.

There, in his truer form, the dragon resided in the form of a large wild boar, within the form of the wild boar would be the form of the pigeon in which the heart and the strength of this dragon was hidden. When the dragon teasingly hinted at the real source, that his mythical existence might be the deep roots of the tree that grew adjacent to the mill, the Prince Stezor smiled, nodded and withdrew quietly to safe distance. Finding a secure spot to conceal both himself and his mount, he ate his fill then enjoyed a sound sleep, having acquired the means to defeat the Dragon.

                                                                                             ~

Rising before dawn Prince Stezor set out at once to the Kingdom of Voltaren. Mixing with the common crowd at the marketplace there he first pawned the gold chain he’d worn since childhood and obtained two hounds and a falcon. Next, properly disguised, he entered the palace grounds and sought and obtained employment as a shepherd.

He was duly warned however not to go near the lake himself, though the sheep were permitted to venture there if they wanted. Eager to get started he set out at once with the sheep, two hounds, a falcon and the mighty sword slung across his back concealed under the cape. As instructed he allowed the sheep to venture near the lake. Staying at some distance, he hollered his challenge to the Dragon to face him if he dared. The same Red Dragon emerged from the foaming waves and shot to the sky, hovering in the air.

“Who dare be so brazen as to challenge me?” His thunderous voice shook the very ground where Prince Stezor stood. Steadying his footing he reached across his back and unsheathed his sword. Brandishing it he hollered back: “I’m Prince Stezor, the Third Prince of the kingdom of Orownoz. I’m here to avenge my brothers Prince Joren and Prince Kezi’s deaths.”

The mighty Dragon was highly amused at the audacity and the posturing of this puny human. At first he toyed with him as a source of fun, whizzing through the sky, shooting bolts of fire that made the prince dance. Prince Stezor’s agility and incredible stamina had impressed him at first but soon tiring of this lame sport, the Dragon, in earnest this time, dove in for the kill.

Once more Prince Stezor averted being roasted or swallowed whole with each subsequent skirmish and he even managed to strike back with his sword. Incredibly the blade even managed to cut through the scales, causing the Dragon unexpected pain.

The dragon, growing increasingly more wary of this contestant’s prowess, halted his onslaught and, hovering in mid air over the opponent’s head, demanded a temporary truce for the day. Refusing to forgo his advantage, Prince Stezor hollered his adamant refusal, “There will be no armistice till one of us is dead”. Furthermore he brazenly asserted that, even if the emperor’s daughter happened to be there to kiss him, he would still not relinquish the fight.

This long-drawn- out skirmish had seriously depleted the Dragon’s fire whereas Prince Stezor‘s deadly blade managed to find its mark few more times.

“Enough!” The infuriated Dragon reluctantly broke off from the combat and swiftly dove into the refuge of the lake’s depths.

                                                                                            ~

Since the Prince could not follow suit and no number of bellowed insults, hollered dares or challenges produced the desired outcome, Prince Stezor in the end reluctantly rounded up his flock and returned back to the palace stables. Early next morning, along with the sheep, hounds and falcon, he returned to the spot near the lake. Once more he contested with the dragon but failed to destroy the beast. The previous day, the King Seku of the Voltaren Kingdom to allay his suspicions had dispatched two grooms to spy on this unusual shepherd. They had returned with bated breath to relay all that they had witnessed. So on this second day, the King had sent his daughter to the lake, with directions to kiss the Sheppard if, or when, he made the same boast. When Prince Stezor uttered those same words during the fray the beautiful princess ‘s sudden appearance on the scene and her exquisite beauty did sway the prince from his resolve.

The princess as a willing participant volunteered the kiss and charged Prince Stezor with unusual strength, stamina and zeal.

“What’s this? “

Prince Stezor was waiting for just such an opportunity, with his now invincible prowess and dexterous manoeuvring, just as the Dragon dove to devour him, the Prince somersaulted and shot through the air to successfully mount the beast’s tail. His fingers clung tightly onto the scales as the Dragon swooped then veered this way and that slicing through the air with powerful strokes of its wings. Despite the Dragon’s aerial acrobatics, brisk assents to the clouds followed by spiraling, dizzying dives, Prince Stezor had hung on tight and what’s more, completed his laborious climb towards Dragon’s neck and head. In a contest of will Prince Stezor would be the champion for, just as the exhausted Dragon had slowed his pace, Prince Stezor had positioned himself above the Dragon’s eyes, its most vulnerable point. The powerful plunge of the sword cut mercilessly through the scales causing the Dragon great pangs of agony as its blood poured in torrents out of the wound.

“Stop ... Stop it.” He growled and, with the most vigorous shake, managed to finally rid himself of this pest.

Prince Stezor, who was in fact worn out, broke the momentum of his fall with a timely roll and a dive into the lake to avoid by only a hairsbreadth the most serious of injuries. He was submerged for a long while under water but resurfaced gasping for breath and quickly taking hold of his senses swam to the safety of the shore before the Dragon returning from the clouds could dive into the lake.

Meanwhile the blinded and disoriented Dragon, with the blood running over his eyes, heard the Prince’s desperate cries, “Help, Help, I can’t swim!” he targeted the sound assuming it to be coming from the lake. But the Prince had climbed onto a rocky outcrop a good distance from the lake. As a result, the diving Dragon missed its mark and plowed straight into the rocks.

The beast burst open the moment it hit the ground, and a wild boar emerged from the rupture. The hounds set upon it at the Prince’s command and tore apart the wild boar. A white pigeon burst out of the carcass and immediately took flight but this time it was caught by the falcon.

A precise whistle brought the trained falcon to the Prince’s hand with its prey. The captive pigeon, now in dire straits, beseeched the Prince to spare his life and, to foster good faith, confessed to his holding prisoners behind the water mill which Prince Stezor was now at liberty to free.

“What about the adjacent tree?” Prince’s question invoked deep fear in the Pigeon’s eyes. This is the confirmation prince needed, so he did not press the issue any further.

“Now I’ve told you everything… Let me live and I shall go far away from here and never bother this realm or your family again. “The Pigeon once more implored the Prince.

“I would have ordinarily spared you,” the prince hemmed and hawed, “However, I cannot be sure you would not revert back to the form of a Dragon and spread your reign of terror over other unsuspecting kingdoms. Besides I am obliged to avenge my brothers you’ve so heartlessly devoured.” And with those words he wrung the pigeon’s neck and the Dragon was no more.

                                                                                                ~

The victorious Prince on his return was given armed men by the King of Voltaren and with them he went back to the prison behind the windmill and freed all the dragon’s captives. Delighted, King Seku married his only daughter, the lovely Princess to this intrepid Prince Stezor.

After the elaborate feast while many slept soundly, diligent Prince Stezor, bothered by a nagging loose end, snuck away from the matrimonial bed and without a word to anyone hopped back in his saddle and galloped back to the windmill. Dismounting, Prince then found the adjacent tree and uncovering the roots, he struck them so hard that his hands turned red. That same instant a sudden feeling of foreboding took hold of his heart.

With a perplexed look on his face and a heavy heart, in haste he galloped back to the kingdom. Sure enough his suspicions were warranted and his fears became the reality. The entire kingdom seemed utterly deserted. No one, not a single soul stirred. His searches led him to even the deepest parts of the dungeons where he discovered everyone, guards and prisoners alike in a state of lifeless stupor.

And when he touched one, they simply crumbled to dust. With a heavy heart he rushed back to his matrimonial chamber and gazed upon his beautiful bride but when he reached for a kiss, she too crumbled to dust in his arms.

Were they all the mystical creation of the Dragon’s imagination?

After shedding many tears, he rounded up the majority of the sheep and oxen. Prince Stezor then reluctantly mounted his steed and herding the animals through the strange miasma emerged safely back on the familiar lands of the Kingdom of Orownoz.

By then the Prince’s absence had come to light and a nationwide search was well underway. The Queen had fallen ill fearing the worst but now the delighted King and Queen listened with due patience and fervent zeal to their son’s account of his adventures. In the end the King shook his head in disbelief; not only of the bizarre set of events, but also regarding the discrepancy of the timing, for the Prince’s absence had only been two days and no more.

Fin