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

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

01- DRAGON LONGZE LISTENS TO FREYA (59)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

02- DRAGON LONGZE ON NIGHT  RECONNAISSANCE(78)

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

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

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

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

03-DRAGON LONGZE  (1)

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

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

                                                                          ~

 

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

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

04- HANS AQUILA

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

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

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

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

                                                                                             ~

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

05- THE FOX

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

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

06- FREYA  AQUILA (23)JP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

(END OF PART 7)

 

 

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

 

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

 ENDURING FRIENDSHIP OF STEVOR AND THE INTREPID DRAGON LONGZE (PART 1)

(B0St original story)

PART I

 

01 A - GUARDIAN RORKOR

 

A long, long time ago there was a fierce and mighty general named Geron Muller who never lost a single battle. His military prowess (brilliant strategies and martial competency) rendered him invincible, so that the very mention of his name was enough to send ripples of fear through the enemy ranks. Each battle was won without fail because of his tactical proficiency, brave officers and well-disciplined armies. In his mid years General Geron Muller’s glorious military vocation (career) suffered a serious setback when he received a devastating blow from the blade of an ardent (fervid) opponent. The strike was so severe, it had sliced through tendon (like butter) and cut halfway into the bone; therefore, it crippled his sword arm and put an end to the legend of his invincibility.

01- THE GENERAL GERON MULLER

Forced to retire to his country estate, which was by a beautiful lake Taho, he allowed his well-meaning friends to coerce him into a marriage. The day a boy was born to him was the greatest day of his life and filled his heart with hopes and dreams. The son named Stevor, bereft of his mother at birth, was still projected to fulfill Geron’s great aspirations. Hence, at barely five years of age the boy was subjected to gruelling military discipline and tutelage.

“I’m greatly disappointed in that boy.” Geron Muller confessed to a confidante one day at dusk as they shared a fine wine out on the veranda under the fool moon’s gaze. “What would it take to turn him into the kind of a warrior which would make me proud?” Geron lowering his gaze, heaved a deep exasperated sigh. “I’ve tried everything without much success; no amount of threat, pressure, or coaxing will deliver the result I seek. He is intelligent enough, physically fit, and agile enough in wielding the sword,” he shook his head grumpily, “but just doesn’t have it in him to be a fine warrior.”

02- NORSEK

“Do not lose heart my friend.” The confidante Norsek reached over and placed a comforting hand on Geron’s shoulder,” The boy is only five years in age after all,” he paused for emphasis, “and he does have some mighty boots to fill. Perhaps he will surprise us all by sprouting martial wings in his subsequent years.” He chuckled as he swallowed another mouthful of the fine wine.

“No. I have always been farsighted in such matters. I can see the writing on the wall. He will always be a disappointment to me.” Geron Muller shook his head morosely.

True enough, the subsequent years proved him right. The boy, Stevor, showed more inclination towards the literary arts (calligraphy, still life painting, prose, writing fiction) and excelled in them with the least effort whereas he struggled to achieve more than a mediocre rank in every aspect of his military training. As a result, Geron Muller refused to have anything to do with the boy and spent his days drinking and carousing with his close associates. However, the boy had more in common with Geron than his father had realized; for one thing, Stevor was courageous, passionate in his pursuits and rather strong willed and as hot tempered as his father. To blow off steam (to vent his amassed rage), he often took long, meditative walks along the shoreline of the lake Taho.

“There is no denying it; I have a father that hates me.” He would often grumble and stomp his feet hard on the ground, periodically kicking up clumps of sand. “Never once has he tried to see things my way…. Heaven knows I’ve tried and tried to appease him but his expectations are far too unrealistic. How can anyone achieve those high standards of his. Why should I hang around only to be berated from dawn till dusk?”

Consequently, the dejected seven-year-old Stevor simply seized the opportunity one day when his father was away and fled his despised circumstance. At daybreak, while the servants still were asleep, he took with him only a few of his prized possessions, a small knife, some dry food and the water skin, then quietly snuck through the back gate without anyone knowing it.

“I will take my chance in the outside world. How much worse can it be?” A coward he was not.

03- THE BOY STEVOR -JP

Subsequently, launching the small boat (dinghy) into the water, at the narrowing part of lake Taho, he rowed and rowed riding the waves and soon reached the other side. He climbed ashore, carefully concealed the dinghy amidst the tall bushes, then following the various goat-paths he began ascending (climbing) the tall mountain, to make it much harder for his would-be pursuers to track him. In his seven-year-old heart, meanwhile, he carried the unrealistic hope of reaching the summit, possibly in one day, so as to enjoy the much-anticipated panoramic view. But the arduous (challenging) topography, wilderness (backwoods) and the dense forest did not make things easy for any robust seasoned hiker or hunter, much less a naïve, though zealous minor; hence, Stevor soon came to regret this decision.  Meanwhile, halfway up the mountain, his meagre dry rations long gone, for he hadn’t planned too wisely, he had begun to subsist mainly on berries and roots, as his compassionate heart was acutely averse (opposed) to hunting.

Nearing dusk, a sudden violent gust of wind arose, billowing the clouds up into an ominous flotilla that soon swallowed the sun. The forest creatures scurried off to seek shelter and Stevor likewise sought apt refuge from the impending heavy downpours. He was fortunate to find what he thought was a small grotto (a cavern, cave). But small it was not; it seemed to reach way into the dark depths, which he decided not to venture too far into, fearing resident wild beasts, or, with his wild imagination giving reign, monsters or goblins. He was only seven years old after all.

Getting right down to business, he fetched (collected) some kindling, firewood, sticks and twigs that were strewn about at the mouth of the cave, then adroitly started a small campfire and set beside it, to alleviate the bone chilling cold of the soggy night. His interest was for a time held captive by the curtain of rain at the outside; meanwhile the fire afforded him both light and certain security from marauding (prowling) animals. Feeling famished, he rummaged trough his small bundle and finding few forgotten dried strips of meat packaged in brown wax paper which he’d placed there some prior time, he eagerly retrieved it and devoured it within seconds.  As he chewed the last bit, his ravenous hunger not at all satiated, his eye suddenly just then caught (he spotted) a coiled up white snake, who, with his head slightly raised was intently watching him. Stevor felt that this was no ordinary snake, as it seemed to have two tiny projections on his head; furthermore, he was outside of his element, shouldn’t he be swimming in Lake Taho instead of hiding in this cave? Just then their eyes met and both with certain curiosity, continued to study the other.

Unbidden, the memory of the succulent portions (morsels) of snake meat alongside specialty herbs and vegetables swimming in delicious bouillabaisse, intruded in Stevor’s mind and he absently licked his lips. This specialty potage (broth) with choice ingredients, for longevity, was always prepared without fail, on those special occasions, like his eight birthday which would be coming up in five days. Snake bisque was chef Yeru’s signature dish. More than one occasion Stevor had snuck into the kitchen and watched the entire procedure.

“It won’t be the same, just grilled over a campfire, but …. Hmmmm! “He hissed under his breath, wandering if he should make the attempt.  Reluctant though he was to skewer the pretty white sea serpent and roast him over fire, hunger pains being an apt incentive, he kept his eyes pinned on the snake.

The white sea serpent seemingly perceiving what was on Stevor’s mind, he blinked his eyes and defiantly flicked his fork tongue at him; then, the very moment Stevor shifted his stance, to dart and to grasp him, the little white serpent, poof, suddenly disappeared. A moment later he reappeared behind Stevor, and seemingly angry, raised his head, poised to strike.  But then a strange rumination (deliberation), perhaps a flicker of mercy, momentarily registering in those blazing (flaming) blue/red eyes, he halted his aim. He seemed to be rather intrigued by what he’d intuitively (telepathically) grasped from this human boy’s mind, his memories, past experiences unravelling in rapid succession, before him.  What happened next was still more unbelievable. The white snake quickly grew to a monstrous proportion, only to intimidate, but not to harm him.

Stevor who was now dwarfed by the serpent’s size, he nevertheless stoically stood his ground and brandishing his small blade (dagger), eyed those terrible fangs. The snake hesitated, and desiring not to escalate this gross misunderstanding, he shape-shifted (altered) instead, stealing Stevor’s breath, as he transformed into a fierce, mighty dragon!

04-DRAGON IN  A CAVE (5)

“You can’t eat me now!” The stanch (resolute) voice with a hint of joshing (teasing) sentiment sounded in Stevor’s head.

Just then out of the blue (unpredictably), a shrill cry manifesting out of nowhere, shook the very foundation of the entire cave and few loosened rocks and clumps of earth reigned down, barely missing them ; subsequently, the fierce dragon who looked visibly alarmed and petrified, nodded his head to Stevor and instantly vanished (disappeared) into thin air. That same instant, the ambers of the campfire had flickered, dimmed and then got extinguished altogether by the icy breeze that had suddenly swept through the cavern’s entrance, making Stevor chilled to the very marrow (core). Inexplicable fear coursing through his veins, cloaked in pitch darkness, Stevor stood perfectly still for a time, striving to understand this surging, foreboding feel.

“What was that?” Eventually he snapped out of it.

  “Blast! I could have ….” Stevor then stamped his foot in a hot fury, for he’d missed the opportunity of obtaining single verification (proof), of his contact with a numinous (mystical, supernatural) snake which had turned into a live Dragon. This uncanny experience would have proven to his father, once and for all, that he wasn’t a weakling; but now, without a shred of evidence, who would believe his intrepid brush (confrontation) with the dragon. Despondently (glumly) hence, he curled up at the corner, leaned his back to the cave’s wall and closed his eyes hoping to at least to catch forty winks (catnap, sleep).

Dawn came quickly enough, and he at once rising to his feet, beginning at the entrance, his eyes avidly searched the ground for any residue, imprints or tracks that might have been left behind by the white serpent or the dragon. By late afternoon, as his expanded quest had still not born any fruit, on the point of quitting, he suddenly however, felt a rush of crisp air that stung his cheeks and ruffled his hair. Tree limbs likewise stirred (whipped, thrashed) by the rapid air that rustled the leaves as tall grass all about him swayed violently in the precipitous, punishing wind.

“What’s that?” He rubbed his eyes in disbelief and focusing more intently, his gaze followed (tracked) the little white serpent that had just then disappeared (retreated) under the yonder (afar) shrub?

Forsaking safety, he at once rushed after it. But then when he reached the exact spot, instead of a snake he saw a little boy, much younger than he, dressed plainly, about three or four, crouching and poking the ground with a stick. He simply looked up and smiled at him unafraid. “Would you like to play with me?” He asked in all innocence.

05-LITTLE LONGZE

“Are you lost, little boy?” Stevor inquired.

The seemingly mischievous, though sweet little boy answered him with a gentle shaking of the head.

Stevor looked about him fearfully, expecting the reemergence (return) of the white snake or the dragon but instead, just beyond the trees he spotted a trail of smoke curling up from the treetops which told of a dwelling. His eyes raised to the sky next, frowning, he considered the quickly amassing, flotilla of clouds that would make the twilight rapidly encroach on them. The recent danger still fresh in his mind, he shook his head and said, “You shouldn’t be out here at this time and all alone! Come, I’ll walk you home.” He reached out and gently cupped the little boy’s hand and together they walked towards the trail of smoke. Once they had cleared the dense foliage (shrubbery)and then the cluster of trees (small forest), the modest size wooden cabin perched solidly on a massive rock by a cliff’s edge come into view. The sheer drop of the cliff at the side of the house led to a thin margin of sandy beach down below, to an inhospitable segment of lake Taho.

As they approached the dwelling, suddenly the door creaked open and an intimidating, over seven feet tall, brawny (muscular), stalwart warrior, though he was dressed in plain clothes, with long raven black hair past his broad shoulders that filled the door-frame,  briskly stepped outside (emerged from the door); he cast a long, assessing (scrutinizing), stern look at Stevor then shifted his angry gaze to rest on the boy.

06- THE STERN CUSTODIAN RORKOR

Devoid of affection (tenderness), he was clearly not the little boy’s parent, but, as Stevor was to learn later, an unwilling custodian named Rorkor, set to the task of caring for Longze, at this desolate sector. Subsequently, Rorkor reluctantly and coldly had extended his polite greetings to Stevor; and after his perfunctory thanks for returning Longze, in safety to this abode, he had civilly invited Stevor inside to share their evening repast and perhaps stay for the night.

 Stevor, when he stepped inside, was at first bit unnerved, seeing that he was expected and that there was an additional plateful already placed at the table for him; nevertheless, he quickly took up his seat next to the boy.

Stevor, ate his fill of, strange though delicious, a varied vegetarian spread (feast) heaped on his plate, and drunk clear refreshing liquids (sweet concoctions), feeling more at ease as the night progressed. Conversation at dinner was polite and trivial (unimportant). Though at one point when, Stevor during desert decided to unburden his fear about the supernatural entities (white serpent and the Dragon) he’d encountered prior to meeting Longze, he noted Rorkor and his ward (charge)Longze exchanging a brief curious look between them. Then, after a flicker of amusement brushing his lips, Rorkor had smiled tautly, his smile never reaching his cold eyes, and waved a dismissive hand at Stevor’s assiduous (persistent) deep concern about his charge’s well being should he encounter the same perceived dangerous entities. His subsequent reassuring manner and words soon put this fear out of Stevor’s thoughts.

07- STEVOR EATING DINNER

After the meal, seated by the hearth (fireplace), Stevor learned succinctly that Longze, had been orphaned in his infancy; and that, Longze’s parents had been expunged (curious use of word for death), while he was barely a week old. His parents had been consequently executed, for their serious breach of one of the stringent laws; the custodian, however, did not elaborate on the nature of the breach, just that they had been found guilty and properly dealt with. Longze, being an innocent infant, was spared punishment and allowed instead, to grow up, though under Strick scrutiny.

After they had retired to their respective rooms, the two boys sharing Longze’s bed, had at first truly strove to get some slumber. But days exciting events still fresh on their mind, with many ideas and thoughts yet to be shared, they had instead sat up and in whispers, continued their happy banter (chitchat), which incidentally lasted till small hour of the night.

Stevor had at first landed an interested ear to the incessant rumblings of excited Longze and to his long, elaborate accounts of his past adventures, some too fantastic to believe; but eventually Stevor’s eyelids slowly but surely had drooped (sagged, then altogether closed), as he felt utterly exhausted by the culminating set of events and exchanges till then.  His earlier lengthy search of the woods prior to meeting Longze had already depleted some of his physical strength, this, compounded with taxing verbal exchange with Rorkor after repast and, the sustained lively chitchat with Longze thereon, all in all, had him utterly beat.  His mortal physique being no match to their unending energy, furthermore, the warmth of the luxuriously soft down-filled quilt that he’d crawled under, naturally induced him to have forty winks. He did not know when or how, but his mind and body had at some point surrendered, rendering him dead to the world.

He woke up at dawn with a start, at first not knowing where he was; but gradually, as the realization set in, Stevor smiled and turning, watched for a while, captivated by the peaceful, serene face of Longze whose eyelids were still closed in deep sleep. Though Stevor did not know this, but Longze’s eventual sleep, for the first time ever, had been tranquil and devoid of his usual nightmares. He woke up few minutes later, fully charged and again, bursting with zealous energy.

08- DELIGHTED  LITTLE LONGZE

Rorkor seeing that the boys got along exceptionally well, and strangely enough Longze was now well behaved, which allowed him some reprieve from his detested, burdensome task of baby-sitting unruly Longze, extended the invitation of Stevor’s stay for another week or more.

Stevor subsequently spent his days talking, exchanging stories, playing or foraging at the narrow strip of sandy shore, of the lake Taho; which was accessible, only through the precarious, winding, angular-descending path.  He would have been content to stay there forever but one day Longze, looking very said, told him, “Tomorrow is the last day I can play with you.” And before he could inquire further, his eyes tearing, he’d ran off into the cabin (chalet, lodge). The dinner was consumed in utter silence, and everyone went to bed early that night.

The subsequent morning when Stevor awoke, he found himself beside a grove of trees up on a hilltop, in the midst of a plush pile of grass that had kept him both dry and warm. Strangely enough, there was no sign of a wooden abode (cottage) or garden anywhere. Just then he heard the sound of hound dogs and then sighted numerous mounted, armed man loaded with game of the hunt, racing towards him. They had been searching for the entire lakeside, for him, having discovered the concealed boat (dinghy) amidst the tall bushes (bullrushes), for the past several days and promptly delivered him to his home.

09-  GERON MULLER

He expected the welcome he received from his father; “You ungrateful beast; how dare you be so defiant; if you weren’t my only offspring I would have had you whipped within an inch of your life then have your body torn asunder and fed to the wild dogs, for this! But don’t think your punishment will be any less severe. You deserve no leniency from me, and be assured, there are ways to make you regret your actions!”

In the subsequent days and weeks, Stevor faced the wrath of his father whose anger could not be assuaged with no amount of yelling and threats. Stevor received his punishments stoically however, enduring an even more restrictive, austere regimen than previously, one that was supposedly to build his character.

 

(END OF PART 1)