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

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

01- VILLAGE

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

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

02- MAYOR GUDMUND KIRK

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

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

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

                                                                                  

                                                                                            

03B- HANS AQUILA- JP

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

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

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

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

04- WARRIOR ERLAND

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

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

                                                                                        ~

 

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

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

05- FREYA

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

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

06- WARRIOR ERLAND

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

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

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

07- GIFT BASKET OF THANK YOU

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

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

 

                                                                                ~

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

08  JEDRICK

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

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

09- ALEC

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

 

 

(END OF PART 1)

THE DRAGON LONGZE AND THE LOST DAUGHTER BERDIS - PART 2 (Original story By Bost 2025)

 THE DRAGON LONGZE AND THE LOST DAUGHTER BERDIS - PART 2      

(ORIGINAL STORY BY BOST 2025)

PART 2

 

Temuz’s feet was suddenly bolted to the ground and, with his arms fastened to either side of him like led weights, try as he might he could not move a single muscle, nor could he take a single step forward. That same instant, his mouth had contorted in pain, as the look in his eyes indicated dread, for he had just then grasped the gravity of his predicament (situation); ahh, but bit too late! 

01- TEMUZ (7)

Subsequently, the rising gale winds that had mercilessly thrashed him had also heralded the dark, ominous clouds overhead, instantly turning day into night. Then came the torrential downpours, a deluge, but it all fell only on him; Berdis few feet away remained totally dry. Angry skies repetitively thundered and shook the very ground which he stood; but worse was yet to come, a streak of lightening next finding its mark, Temuz’s body just then was set alight (busted into flames).

02- TEMUZ (HIT BY LIGHTENING)

 And promptly, he was reduced to a large heap of ash! Berdis, meanwhile, witnessing all this, in fright had collapsed suddenly on the moss-covered ground, unconscious yet breathing.

03- BERDIS (8)

When she came to, the shocking event suddenly recollected, her face turned ghostly white, but not a single alarming cry escaped her lips; instead, she had simply sat there on the ground, in numbed state, barely listening to Longze’s rationalizations (explanative) and urgent appeals (entreaties) ringing in her head. She had never seen anyone perish (die) in front of her before, let alone someone she knew, though detested.

Later that afternoon Berdis had quietly returned to her home and gone straight to her room. She had said nothing to her parents even though her pallid complexion had greatly alarmed her mother, Elin.  Berdis had obligingly ingested (swallowed, consumed) some chicken bouillon, a nourishing soup, and was allowed to retire early to bed that evening. Her ill health, and melancholy state did not dissipate following morning but rather, lasted for nearly a week.

The whole village, meanwhile, was cast in tumult, when Temuz and his bond servant’s sudden mysterious disappearances without a trace, was discovered. For weeks, dire speculations, unfounded accusations and unsolicited (unwelcome) ominous predictions wildly circulated, fingers pointing at likely culprits, all the while causing emotional soup of fear, grief, anger and foreboding, not only among his immediate family and wide network of friends but also, with countless others that had dealings (favorable or otherwise) with Temuz in the village. Some of Temuz’s closest friends, recalling Berdis’s demeaning (belittling) rejection of Temuz at the dance earlier on, now put their heads together in conspiratorial whispers against Berdis, suspecting that somehow, she must have begotten (caused) this trouble. Some even shunned her or spread nasty rumours about her, even deeming her unlucky and ill-fated.  All expanded efforts searching for Temuz, meanwhile, lasting for weeks and months, had all been in vain:  no resolution, no answer came forth despite the indebt investigation; this eventually forced the authorities to register the disappearances of both in official report, as unresolved, unexplained phenomenon.

Eventually, things in the village had quieted down and ordinary life seemingly returned to norm, especially since summer was nearing its end, and soon there would be the Autumn Harvest Festival. Subsequent days, the activity in the village was electric; the air was permeated with excitement as all neighbours congregated in the community hall, planning the future Autumn Harvest celebrations. 

Reluctantly, Alec and Elin had participated in some of the ongoing rush of events, even though their hearts were not in it. By then, also not wishing to worsen Berdis’s malady, Alec and Elin had temporarily postponed making any final decision about Berdis’s prospects (nuptial), which by the way, had been greatly diminished.  They were quite contented, meanwhile, because Berdis now a subdued, proper young lady, rarely went out lone on excursions, and even then, she never ventured too far. Even so, many of her friends had now kept their distance and furthermore, Berdis’s introverted traits being unusual- consistently sequestered in her room reading horticulture books and taking notes on medicinal herbs, and as oft she seemed, distracted, moody or unhappy- inaudibly concerned, her mother, Elin.

Back at the mountain cave, meanwhile, Dragon Longze had just finished paying for his past violation, when barely released from his chains, he was now informed of a new charge, having already been found guilty in absentia, of his breach (infringement), of yet another forbidden, stringent Heavenly rule. Any intimacy or love relations was strictly prohibited between divine(immortal) and the mortal beings. When he had hopelessly fallen in love with a mortal being, his transgression had condemned him.

05 -DRAGON LONGZE (10)

Longze hence, was summoned at once to Heaven’s court, to answer this charge and to submit to his dire punishment.  Even though some had pleaded on his behalf, he was still given the only recourse (option) as recompense sentence (verdict):  to either forever forsake his love, Berdis, and incinerate her, or suffer as penance (fine, punishment) the Hundred Heavenly Thunderbolts, an extreme chastisement which none had ever survived; and on the unlikely chance he did, he would  thereafter be deprived (stripped) of his immortality. Kneeling before the Heavenly Court, he had begged for the opportunity to first contact her, before he gave his final decision. Though reluctantly, he was given this singular chance.

06--DRAGON LONGZE (5)

That night he had appeared to her in his, almost-human form, in a dream and truthfully explained his reasons for his long abstinence. He had not forsaken her, far from it, he’d done his best to alter the course of their otherwise doomed relationship, the forbidden love and the inevitably consequential tragic fate (certain outcome,) that had awaited them both. He had then asked tentatively, if she still carried the flames of passion (love) for him in her heart. She had looked at him, unafraid and straight in the eye, hurt registering in her pupils temporarily for his doubting her affection, and then nodded in the affirmative.

 “Yes,” she had then declared resolutely and, with deep emotion in her voice, “I have never once, stopped loving you.”

His heart in ruptures, he had manifested (in absolute human form) in her room, and she also awakened, presently on her feet, for a moment they had simply stared at each other.  Then he smiled and drew near to passionately embraced her, afterwards, lowering his head, he tenderly kissed her rosy lips. But then quickly pulled away and shook his head. “First, however, you must be in the know…. “Longze hesitated, looking grim, then forcing calm to his voice he slowly, hence, began recounting (relaying) albeit grave consequences, of what their forbidden love entailed:

After his punishment of Heavenly thunderbolts (he’d purposely omitted the number hundred, insinuating instead that it would only be couple of bolts), he would then be stripped of all his innate (divine) powers of immortality and then be cast on earth, to live a single lifetime, with his beloved Berdis, if fortune favored them. He reiterated, making sure she understood the full implications, that he and she would be cast forlorn and helpless, him a mere mortal being, in some distant, foreign lands where they would have to rely only on their own devices, receiving no support or backing, from Heaven, relations or friends. She may suffer greatly from being segregated (separated) from her parents, the comforts of home, the routine life in the village, all that she had known, loved and cherished in her growing years. Together they would survive and perhaps even thrive, but at a cost to her, and this fact(ached) deeply pained his heart. Then, his voice strong and resolute, he avowed to love and protect her to the best of his abilities, to cherish and provide for her to the end of his mortal existence. Falling silent momentarily, however, he looked up at her to somberly confess, that he had no certain way of knowing or predicting what his future physical shape or abilities would be. He bit the corner of his lover  lip, as he silently considered his inner dread that after his punishment he could be disfigured or worse; then, forcing a smile to his lips, he had quietly asked, “When we meet again, I may appear far different from this current physical form; please consider this carefully, are you still willing to take this great risk, simply on a leap of fate, just to attain this singular chance at happiness with me?”

07-DRAGON LONGZE (12)

She had nodded without hesitation and stanchly (steadfastly) said, “Yes.”  Then went on to add that life’s uncertainties (unpredictability) had never frightened her, however, possibility of loosing his love did. She would willingly go through fire, literally, to be with him. 

He was so touched, tears pricked his eyes, and he reached out to gently hold (grip) her hand; turning it over, he raised it to his lips and tenderly kissed the palm of her hand, which was a symbolic gesture, a pledge of his deep, eternal love for her.

And all this was observed in Heaven, not just by his supporters but all, even those ardent opponents (critics) who by having witnessed this rare fervour (zeal), courage, this unequivocal(undeniable) deep affection (love) and unwavering devotion (dedication, fidelity), resultantly hence, had wavered (faltered) in their staunch resolve.

Meanwhile back on earth, from that night on, anticipation of joy, hope and love along with melancholy and worry (chiefly for him), in continuous emotion, though alternately (by turns) had existed in Berdis’s heart. That was partially the reason for her solitude and oft manifest mixed emotions: as her heart habitually palpitated, basking (delighting in,) in Longze’s deep professed love, while her mind considered all that she would be leavening behind, and the myriad (innumerable) possibilities their future entailed. Additionally, her mind also was beset with silent worry about the outcome of his impending (looming) punishment; knowing his nature, she had guessed (supposed) he had not fully disclosed to her, the full gravity (extent) of his sentence (penalty).

                                                                                          ~

In the village, the Autumn Harvest Festival celebrations, which lasted for a week, was now in full swing. During one such event in which all the eligible young people had obligingly participated in symbolic harvesting the terraces, a small measure of the strips of ripened wheat fields that had been purposely left untouched- they had not been long at it when one of the girls, one called Helga, coincidentally one noted for her beauty, joyfully cried aloud having found a specific purple flower.

08- HELGA

 Everyone hurried over to at once congratulate her for this, artfully implanted, though purportedly (ostensibly) rare and most fortunate find, which foretold that a brave admirer would soon be on his way to her father’s dwelling to claim her hand in marriage.  The girl blushing crimson, quickly tucking the trophy to her bosom, awkwardly intoned her thanks to all the well wishers and then rushed off to home to relate this good knows to her parents.

That same instant, one of the young men (a distant cousin of Temuz) who happened to be the local blacksmith (the metalworker) and more importantly a malevolent person well-known in the community for his prophetic, ominous predictions, supernatural powers, had noted Berdis’s unease as she had stood aloof off to the side. Langu looking more intently, spied in Berdis’s hand before she could conceal it, impromptu (unplanned, yet genuine), another specific purple wildflower: though this one had two purple blossoms, a much rarer find, more importantly, it had an ominous red stem and leaves.

09-  BERDIS (29)

Excitement bursting in his chest, “Dragon comes!” At once an alarmed cry rang out from Langu.  “The ominous blossoms exist, check out the mark of the red stalk and leaves that is in her grasp!” He insisted in an urgent shout, drawing unwarranted attention to Berdis, and this time his accusatory finger pointed directly at Berdis’s hand, causing everyone gathered to take an intake of deep, fearful breath. All eyes mechanically next, turned to the sky, in search of, predicted, wrathful, baneful Dragon; for the sky had just then suddenly, ominously darkened, as the abruptly rising winds heralded the flotilla of clouds overhead, swiftly concealing the sun behind it.

Berdis subsequently had striven to run away, but Langu persisting with his dire warnings, “Beware all! Watch out for the sure signs...” he, same time, had maneuvered his body to effectively block her way and prevent her escape (flight). “The vengeful dragon, will soon emerge from the cave and seek his revenge on us all!” Langu had continued in his exaggerated tones (unaware of the danger he might beget self), accompanying his ardent words with the mimicked action of many facets of death.  “Run, run for your lives.” 

10-LANGU

He turned abruptly and burrowed his hard, suspicious, contemptuous eyes on Berdis. “You! You are in league with that dragon! You are also responsible for my cousin’s disappearance, and perhaps, untimely demise, I know it!” In a venomous whisper, he hissed (murmured). “I will expose you; you wait and see! “

Berdis stockily met Langu’s accusatory glare and simply shrugged.  Her eyes next, with an unreadable expression regarded the purple flower with red stem and red leaves. Inwardly however, she was fighting to steady her heart and to contain her surging inner elation (joy), knowing what her find meant. She had been subtly given the answer, of the Heaven’s merciful verdict.  He’d survived his ordeal, his mated punishment, and soon, very soon, she would be reunited with her beloved Longze.

Langu’s eyes (popped)opened wide, as if he’d just then read her thoughts, as he loudly this time, (reiterated) screeched, “Berdis, she is in league with the Dragon!”

Some among the crowd of onlookers that had gathered, shook their head as if to say, this was bit too much… Suddenly, rounds of laughter erupted spontaneously in waves, as everyone thought that Langu was playing a prank on them, a cruel one at that, just to frighten them and to augment the excitement of the festivities.

Berdis ceasing this opportunity, hastily tugged the precious find into her pocket and darted away, this time successfully.

Of course, no Dragon manifested; furthermore, Langu’s dramatics lost its effect entirely when just then the sudden downpours had everyone running for cover. And, before long all that hype was forgotten, save for Langu who had menacingly and doggedly from then on kept a surreptitious eye on Berdis.

Some things are never put off, even though the numerous events and festivities had many villager’s schedules hectic, and multitudes franticly engaged. Surprisingly at dawn one day, a representative matchmaker of Overseer (supervisor) Kendo Ren, who was from another prominent family, laden with gifts, had formally called at Alec and Elis’s home, to put forward this time a more persuasive proposal for Berdis’s hand in marriage. Supervisor Kendo Ren was way older than Berdis, but he enjoyed such renown (fame) for his aptitude, dexterity and courage especially in the last skirmish (scuffle, fray, fight)  that had secured the highways, including the one leading to their village, from relentless highwaymen, permanently eliminating threat from the notorious White Hawk Gang, that Berdis’s parents accepted him readily at once as an apt suitor for their daughter.  They had long suspected the cause of Berdis’s malady being her secret infatuation of a malevolent spirit; hence, Alec and Elin’s decision had been based on the dire hope that Kendo Ren, with his proficiency as a warrior, would ultimately rescue Berdis from the clutches of that harmful, phantom spirit.

11- KENDO REN

Berdis, when informed of her parent’s decision, did not express any objections to the suitor’s age or give any other plausible reason; she simply shook her head in the negative, clearly rejecting the marriage proposal. Her parents spent the entire night arguing the point between them. By the following day, with their mind set, ascribing the young daughter’s hesitancy to maidenly fear, they went ahead anyway and fixed the date for the upcoming nuptials. Elin, despite her intuitive worry, for Berdis had remained adamant despite pressure, that she would never acquiesce to this match, chose instead, to busy herself for the next couple of weeks with the customary preparations. The wedding date was fast approaching and on the fifth of November, three days after Berdis’s sixteenth birthday hence, the Overseer (supervisor) Kendo Ren would present himself in person, in full regalia, with pomp and ceremony, with a contingent (delegation) of mounted men, at their door, to collect his bride. The wedding celebrations would then take place in his residence, lasting, at least four weeks, owing to his importance.

Alec and Elin had no way of knowing of course that, on the day Berdis had found that two purple blooms on a single red stem, in her heart of hearts she’d understanding its message. Subsequently, she had covertly visited the  forbidden zone one last time, and in front of then sealed cave’s entrance, sitting on a rock, under that broad-topped young pine whose leaves whispered in the gentle murmur of the air in the evening hours when the twilight steals by with night on its heels, she had declared openly , her voice resonating in  the air, her affirmed, avowed fidelity to Longze. 

12- BERDIS

                                               ~                                        

Two days prior, to the day November 5^th, that was to be her marriage date, she donned her best garments, arranged her hair according to the tradition of her village and wore all her maiden ornaments in beautiful array.  With a smile, she then came forth just before dusk and presented herself to her parents.

“I am sorry to have caused you so much worry,” She said, “It is time for me to now, take my leave of you. My place is with my intended, future husband, Longze, who is patiently waiting for me at this moment, to whisk me away.”

Her face was radiant with joy, and the parents, thinking what she had said was a fanciful way of expressing her acquiescence to their plans, and that Longze was a nickname she’d given to her intended, nodded their ready acquiescence (consent). They had of course expected her to now, to go forth and have that clandestine meeting with her intended suitor Kendo Ren, as this was the accepted norm, before the actual wedding day. 

Her father Alec had stood at the doorway and wished his precious daughter Berdis plentiful good fortune in her anticipated, happy meeting with her soon to be husband, and then briskly turned on his heels and went inside, not wishing for his daughter to witness fresh tears just then brimming in his eyes. Her mother Elin had accompanied Berdis, part of the way.

"I leave you with some trepidation in my heart," Berdis said finally, in a somber tone, when they had halted their steps; from thence, they would part.  "Joyful as this event is, my heart is beset with sadness for I am going from one who has loved and nurtured me since my infancy; one who has guarded my youth; who has given me medicine when I was sick and taught me to cook and sew.” Turning to take one last teary-eyed look at her childhood home, she added. “I am going from a father who diligently kept us safe from all danger, as he oft has ranged the forest to procure the choicest meat and furs, and liberally had his home supplied with food and warmth.  I am going from a place which has been my shelter from the harsh storms of winter, and my shield from the heat of summer. My gratitude is boundless for all that you’ve both done for me. I love you both dearly; but now I must leave you. Farewell, my beloved mother,” Berdis looked at her home one last time and mouthed the words, “farewell also, my respected father, farewell!"

And then, she sped faster than any could follow to the periphery (margin, edge) of the fairy wood, and in a moment, she was lost to sight.

That night Alec and Elin seated by the fire, with mixed emotions had patiently awaited till small hours for her safe return. Subsequent day was the waiting day, which all would rest, reflect and pray, just one day before the big day, the joyful event that would unite their precious Berdis with Kendo Ren formally (legally) before the assembled key witnesses and officials, in an anticipated, blissful matrimonial ceremony.

Time passed.  Hour followed yet another hour, as the clouds of evening rolled up in the west; darkness faded eventually and, the first daylight was about to be manifest in the east, yet Berdis had still not returned. 

They jumped from their seat at a loud knock on the door at down, and with pounding hearts, rushed to open it. But instead of Berdis, they came face to face with the forlorn and decidedly angry face of the bridegroom to be, who demanded an explanation for this insult.

13- ANGRY KENDO REN

He had gone through a lot of trouble the night before, with magnificent preparations (arrangements), to woo (court, flatter) Berdis with words of passion, sonnets, gifts of food, wine, music and personal tokens of love, ancestral jewellery to be bestowed on her. He’d patiently waited all night long at the rendezvous point for hours on end, his steps (boots) to and for wearing out the ground and ultimately, his patience, but she had failed to show up. He demanded an explanation for this great breach of etiquette and time-honoured custom (tradition, ritual).

Alec and Elin were mystified and bit horrified at this unimagined outcome; they were of course beset with silent worry thinking some grave mishap must have befallen her. They carefully, meticulously enumerated, the last night’s spoken words and events, in their head, still disbelieving their senses, instead, seeking any plausible explanation for this unexpected outcome.

Kendo Ren had great influence and power not just in the village but in the entire region; and because of his prominence, soon, many armed men were dispatched (rounded up) , utilized, spread about, some on horseback, searching the byways, steep hills, the periphery shoreline of the lake, wilderness and whereabouts, even trespassing into the forbidden zone, in an exhaustive, thorough search of Berdis. The all-encompassing search had lasted all day and night; at night with torches lit, they (examined) still investigated every dark recess of the mountain, probed each and every chasm (crevice), combed every leafy brush, examined every disturbance on the ground (tracks belonging to wildlife or men), still it had been in vain. The huge cave entrance meanwhile had been sealed, it was solidified into a mountain, and the cavern existed no more. Nor did they care. They hoped it had sealed and imprisoned the dreaded Dragon there permanently. At least that was something to be thankful for.

14- KENDO REN

Kendo Ren’s rage could not be so easily assuaged; though he concealed his innate nature well, he was in truth an arrogant, possessive, cruel and spiteful warrior who’d always gotten his way. Moreover, Kendo Ren had, for a long time secretly lasted after Berdis, and when Temuz’s proposal of marriage had been accepted, incensed Kendo Ren had then made certain arrangements to bring about Temuz’s accidental, premature demise (death). But before this was to happen, Temuz had gone missing, robbing Kendo of the satisfaction of personally illuminating his rival. Now after the extensive search, having failed to yet again possess Berdis, he’d now sought to utterly destroy her parents Alec and Elin, for his unrequited lust and, as scant satisfaction, of his need for revenge.

It took some doing but eventually Kendo Ren was persuaded by the influential officials from his village, to instead, merry Helga. She was vein true, but also well endowed; moreover, on her seventeenth birthday, just shy of three months, she would be bequeathed with an additional wealth, a sizeable inheritance left to her by her only uncle, an enigmatic adventurer, who had never married or sired any known children. Joining her in matrimony will enhance his wealth and power, and so he had opportunely altered his (nuptial) plans and thought of Berdis no more.

Many suns rose and set, and in time all forgot the existence of Berdis, save for her parents. They had endlessly, in lamentation oft at night called out her name, but she answered not.  Nevermore in their light did the bereaved parent’s eyes behold the lost form of their beloved child. Soon they had to come to grips with a harsh reality: their beloved daughter had been lost to them forever. Wherever she had vanished, it was to a place no mortal eyes could see, and no mortal tongue could tell.

15-DRAGON LONGZE (8)

Essentially, when the Dragon Longze was first freed from his chains and  emerged from the cave: before his going to Heaven to answer for the new charges, it had been him that with his magic breath that had permanently sealed the entrance of the cave, forming an impenetrable, solid, charred rockface, so that no other would ever be held captive there ever again.

Afterwards, he had gone to Heaven and had suffered the extreme punishment of 100 Heavenly thunderbolts. He had endured the unimaginable torment and furthermore, survived just so he could be with his beloved Berdis. He could not allow himself to expire, not when he was so close to fulfilling his heart’s desire. His love had sustained him through the searing flames slicing, carving deep lines in his flesh and bones, the agonizing, soul shattering bolts that threatened to unhinge his mind.

He remained most grateful to his friends that had unstintingly cared for him after the fact, tended to his wounds and soon as the danger had passed and he was able, though a deep scar on his right cheek now marred his beautiful face and his left arm was permanently debilitated (hindered, encumbered), he had not with resentment but with humility, knelt before the Heavenly Mighty God and accepted, his just, final verdict.

Heaven being (lenient) merciful, he was manifested back at the mortal realm, in perfect health, as the same handsome young man of twenty with long, cascading blond hair and grey blue eyes, the same image he’d assumed in his last encounter with Berdis. 

16- DRAGON LONGZE WAITING FOR BERDIS

He had patiently waited that night, there under the canopy of infinite no of stars and moonlit sky, at the mouth of the old cave, for her to come to him. She did not disappoint his trust; and joyfully reunited with her, the two then embraced and closed their eyes; instantly they were cast (transported) to a distant land, but not an inhospitable one, for Heaven was compassionate and forbearing (tolerant, forgiving).

Longze and Berdis settled down in a modest dwelling, perched on the remote, however picturesque, segment of the majestic mountain, with cascading waterfalls and breathtaking scenery.  These mountain rages and the surrounding area, being at the periphery, was still under the jurisdiction, therefore apt protection of a just kingdom.

They mostly kept to themselves, though the monastery and the two towns nearby, still at some distance, provided Longze and Berdis with the necessary, annual provisions they could not otherwise attain. There, in their humble dwelling they lived happily ever after in perfect, blissful existence, Longze earning a living through hunting with abundant game on this high elevation (not altogether hostile topography, beside the densely forested mountain range); and Berdis, contributing to their livelihood, by being a healer, as she had some knowledge of the healing herbs.  She often gathered wild herbs that was found sometimes only on the mountain slopes (gradient, incline, hill), and categorized these accordingly, using them as treatment for myriad (innumerable) afflictions. And so, they lived peacefully ever after, till their hair turned grey, surrounded by three beautiful children, and two boys and a girl and many grandchildren.

The End.