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

 

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

01-JEDRICK BIJARKE (12)JP

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

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

02--FREYA AND ALEC AQUILE IN THE MARKET SQUIRE

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

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

03- HANS AQUILA (19)JP

                                                                                  ~

 

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

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

04- JEDRICK (CONFIDENT HE WOULD WIN THE DUEL)

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

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

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

05- WARRIOR HALDOR YON  AND ALEC FIGHTING  - JP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

06- JEDRICK IS FURIOUS

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

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

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

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

07- ALEC FIGHING ARCHILLES ELOF

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

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

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

                                                                                         ~

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

08- ALEC AQUILA

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

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

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

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

                                                                                           ~

 

 

(END OF PART 2)

  

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

 

 

 

 DRAGON LONGZE- THE GOOD FATHER (REVISED BY BOST 2026) – PART 2

Bankwest to Longze his guardian Vernon had yet again saved his life; when at the most critical moment interceding, with his fiery dragon’s breath transferred to his hands, in an instant it had decimated the villainous Kalen who’d been bent on (maliciously) destroying his (Vernon’s) ward.

 

01- VERNON - LONGZE'S GUARDIAN -FIERCE, FIRE BREATHING DRAGON- JP

Longze meanwhile, unaware (for he had no reason to look back), had quickly descended the goat’s path and safely reached the shoreline. Subsequently, after half a day’s travel, he had arrived at a small fishing village and there, he had secured a passage on a small river boat, that after a week it had eventually docked at the more populous port city Monter of the kingdom of Kourin.

Longze from thereon had travelled eastward on foot, till he reached a small, unremarkable coastal town nestled in a remote corner of Kourin and there, Longze had finally, inconspicuously (unobtrusively) settled down. The few coins paid at the registry office, had legally secured him a simple (wooden structure) one story dwelling perched on a hill, with a small plot of land (for growing vegetables) in the back, at one side a wooden shed (barn) housing four chickens and a rooster, a donkey, two goats, then on the other side a deep well. All of that, including the main house, was then encircled by a white picked fence.

Longze had lived there quietly tending to the animals (which were included in the sale of the house, previous owner having died quite suddenly and without a living relative to bequeath them to), making repairs and often keeping to himself; sometimes he would additionally take on odd jobs at the local smith (metalworker) to make ends meet. Time passed quickly, and he was now shy of five months before he would turn seventeen earth years old (in appearance to the mortal beings). In that time, he had grown up to be six feet tall, with long pale blond hair over the shoulder, with brilliant, grey blue eyes, athletic built. He was exceptionally handsome, but he was not reckless in that by being reserved and elusive, tad unfriendly in demeanor- he’d chosen  instead, in a recluse scholarly  (academician’s) way, to decipher the varied innuendos (insinuations, ambiguities) in the vernacular (argot, slang, idioms), prose (writing style) and several particularly stimulating (noteworthy) works of art (painting, still life, portrait, images and water colors). 

In the interim, he would quietly but astutely (keenly) observe and study, atypical quarks human civilization, and in some instances even document it in a small bound book (a journal), as nights were insipidly (boringly) long. He was then again, infrequently (seldom) drawn to bizarre human archetypal (standard mainstream) likes and dislikes. He shied away, however, from exacting hereditary or practical social norms, the hierarchical edifices (organizations, networks), the odious mercantile transactions, obnoxious artisan habits, abhorrent military feats that subjugated benign nations and execrable moral statutes (rulings, edicts). Nonetheless, even these were diligently recorded in the same bound book, with multilayers of loving and virtuous human interactions, exultant family dynamics and social recreations, diversions (sports, games, pastimes, amusements) which humans often engaged in within the dynamics of core or extended family.

 

02- YOHN LONGZE

Sensible (mature) beyond his years, Longze till then had avoided all conventional (usual) complications of social or political entanglements, which often beset (plagued) most men in the mortal realms. Factor in the capricious fate, and unexpectedly and decisively, his placid existence was abruptly one day was overturned, to make way for dire trouble, which destiny had most certainly marked him for.

                                                                                                                 ~

In a small town, in gatherings, shops and saloons, people often talked (gossiped) and shared private opinions; they watched and judged, particularly of every newcomer, as it was their habitual pastime. And yes, they had also shared certain opinions about the recent, enigmatic young citizen Longze:  

Everyone knew him by the name of Yohn Longze, who had arrived in the village little over a year with his few possessions tucked into a bundle under his arm. With the small amount of cash, he had brought with him which had enabled him to purchase the old, excentric Mercer’s abode. With no friends or relatives, young Longze lived there since then, shying away from idle gossip and instead, planting flowers and vegetables on his small plot of land and tending to his obligatory animals. The animals had been clearly spooked at first, for whatever reason, but in time they had settled down. Longze did not drink or gamble, he was instead an avid reader, and he was observed habitually (consistently) seated by the window every night, quietly reading passages from the soft bound books, which he routinely had acquired from the local bookstore. Passers by sometimes observed him during late afternoons, seated on the stairs in front of the door, scribbling stuff into the small bound book. Other than that, no one knew much about him, but many respected him none the less as he was always above board, kind, sincere and always ready to land a helping hand without question to all those that needed it.

 

03-

There were those however, with black hearts and clouded judgements, especially when they were inebriated, idly sitting by in some seedy saloon (drinking establishment), wanting to liven up the dreary, mundane times and to  gain measure of recognition from their compatriots, by questioning or through insinuation, trying to tarnish Longze’s all too perfect, pristine record. After all no human was without flaws (faults, defects); he had to have some hidden vices.

                                                                                                     ~

It so happened that Yohn Longze’s closest neighbour was a store owner, named Thomas, who lived with his wife Rikka and a beautiful daughter named Asta. Asta was a good four years older than Longze (which made her about twenty years old) and so Longze had always greeted her with respect due to elder sister. Thomas made a good living selling much needed supplies to the local crofters and fisherman.

One ordinary evening after repast, as the family leisurely played cards, because of a minor irregularity (infraction), to the utter consternation of the parents, they discovered that their beloved daughter was now with child. No one had gone to bed that entire night; as the aggrieved (angry, upset) father pestered his daughter relentlessly till dawn. Subsequently, Thomas had finally extracted (obtained) an unwilling confession from his dog-tired (drained, wearied) daughter Asta and learned of the culprit ‘s identity.

Though a great shock, they took her at her word and confronted Longze that afternoon, with his wrongdoing. The father was itching to beat Longze to a pulp, but Longze’s fine physique and composed (serene) demeanor, despite the hurled insults and accusation, his tolerant nature, soon diffused the irate father’s fury, as well deterred him from unleashing his vengeful wrath on this maddeningly placid individual.

04- THOMAS

In all that time, Longze had not defended himself nor did he counter the accusations of Thomas, which Thomas interpreted (took it) as admission of guilt.

Longze had listened patiently to the unfounded allegations which sullied his good name and had endured Thomas’s irate curses, look of daggers, fiery tirade, threats, and perplexing (inexplicable) ramblings, till the other had lost his voice. Then, at the end of it, without showing the least emotion, Longze had simply bowed his head, shrugged his shoulders and in a muted tone agreed, “As you’ve already condemned me sir, I’ll agree to whatever you say.”

Just before dusk, Thomas had returned home frustrated, indignant, and still fuming; however, other than his daughter’s word, he had no real proof which to present this matter to the magistrate then, lawfully register a formal complaint and demand apt compensation. Asta’s vehement declaration, that despite her erring in judgement that one time (her being compromised), she had no true affections (love) for Longze and hence, refused absolutely, any notion of marriage to him, terminated that option. Thomas, meanwhile, dreaded the consequences of his precious daughter’s name being dragged through the mud (her being the object of idle gossip); thus, he considered his alternate options and finding none, the matter was abruptly dropped.

In the subsequent months as she became visibly pregnant, however, the unavoidable gossip of course spread like wildfire throughout the town; furthermore, the mysterious gossipmonger had pointed the finger of blame squarely at the newcomer Yohn Lonze, causing his systematic persecution and directing intense, mass animosity even from the more moderate folk. Longze was now shunned like the plague by many decent citizens, some merchants refused to sell their products (wares, food, merchandise) to him, and at every instance, women drew their children near and crossed the street to avoid (eye-contact with) him.

05-YOHN LONGZE

By turns, Lonze was approached by few prostitutes and the rough ruffians (gangsters) offering him unsavory deals, as well, risky, though highly profitable jobs, which he of course promptly declined. Then, they too also turned on him, making his life a living hell.

During this time, he had suffered some serious physical (health) impediments which he received neither the proficient treatment, medicine, nor solace, prolonging his recovery. He also had to endure some minor fiscal (monetary) setbacks, when even the town’s smith (metalworker), who favored his work chose to distance himself from Longze. Longze endured these financial hardships by being extra frugal.

Humans are usually covetous of superior beings and Longze had inadvertently, incurred their innate jealousy with his noble, upstanding, empathetic, and generous nature. They, therefore, were all too quick to condemn him and revel in his status of a fallen one with stained propriety (respectability, and decency). But once more Longze had stoically borne (withstood, braved) these attacks (censures) during the lengthy, adverse (hostile, evil) episode, steadfast with his due diligence, perseverance, and gentle disposition. Even the rowdy children who frequently lay in ambush to pelt him with rocks, eventually got tired of their campaign once they saw they could not anger him.

After the child was born, the indignant Thomas, ignoring his daughter’s pleas and protestations, one night (under cover of darkness) delivered the healthy baby boy to Yohn Longze’s doorstep in a bassinette.

06-BABY BALDER LONGZE

Longze accepted the infant without any apparent emotion and from that time on proceeded to taking a particularly good care of the baby. In fact, he was delighted at this rare chance and this unexpected, most enjoyable responsibility; he saw to it that the baby was safe and comfortable and well fed; wherever there was need, he fetched some goat’s milk and warmed it before giving it to the infant as an apt nourishment, as he could not pay for a wet nurse. Nor did he question the quirks of fate, as he too in his infancy, had been abandoned to the care of stern, unyielding guardians that never smiled, not once.

06 B- BABY DRAGON LONGZE (32)

 He never had known warmth or loving embrace but nevertheless, he had been fortunate in that his guardians had always been stringent yet fair with his upbringing. He will endow this baby with the love and warmth and all the kindness he had within him to confer (impart).

Soon as he was able, Longze, (strapping the baby to his back) visited the official registrar’s office and formally, as any good father would, adapted the baby, whom he had named Balder (barer of light). He, furthermore, secured the legal document which from thence, officially bequeathed all his worldly belongings, should he one day expire (begone, disappear), to his now lawful son, Balder Longze.

Asta, the mother of the infant, upon learning of this recent development from her father Thomas, eyes brimming with grateful tears, heaved a deep sigh and then, not wanting to jeopardize her secret, nascent hopes, which differed from the one her father Thomas had again reiterated (voiced), she simply looked away. After a prolonged silence, as Balder was a good name so, she then nodded her head, acceding to the baby’s now legal name.

                                                                                                           ~

Then one day when a particular ship with its sparse crew had once more docked in the Town’s puny port, her heart leapt for joy. All this time she had harboured the wish that her young man, named Corey, the affluent Merchan’s eldest son, would keep his promise, return to ask her hand in marriage and make all things right by her.

07- COREY AND ASTA

The young man Corey, as expected, again secretly sought her attentions but upon being told of the child Balder, his unexpected icy demeanour, the subsequent denial, and rebuke had irrevocably broken her heart. She realized than that he had never loved her, but unashamedly (fragrantly, brashly) used her to satiate his carnal desires.

Corey had irately stated that he was expected to take over his father’s business when his father had retired, and as an affluent merchant, they had already arranged for him to be wed to another from an equally affluent family. He could not throw all that away, her status was too beneath him, they would never accept her as his wife; she was not even good enough to be considered as his concubine. Then he had deeply wounded her soul, her integrity and heart, uttering his icy toned, insensitive, and devastatingly cruel question, which doubted her claim of his paternity.

Was he really the sole one that she had been intimate with; how could he be sure she had not taken akin liberties with, some other young men?

She was so utterly devastated by these injurious words, his insinuations, that she had not been chaste (virtuous) in the first place, or else she would not have so easily succumbed to his charms; moreover, he had shamelessly and cravenly, entirely absolved (excused) his part in all of that and squarely laid all blame on her.

She could not believe her ears and eyes; shocked to the core, her face flushed, her eyes brimmed with tears, her chest constricting with pain she, therefore, did not know whether to cry or laugh. She simply wanted to disappear! But then, unexpectedly, her heart just then abruptly hardened (turned to stone) and she simply, with an icy glare, stared at this loathsome, ruthless, aspiring spineless fiend whom she had once, by being totally gulled, intensely and wholeheartedly loved. Adamant then not to show least weakness to this opportunistic, dastardly being, Asta held (pinned) her unreadable gape (stare, gawk, gaze) on him for two whole minutes, with the sardonic (wry) smile on her lips, her ears deft to all his subsequent excuses and cowardly (gutless) ramblings; thus, wanting absolutely nothing further to do with Corey, she told him a blatant lie, robbing him therefore of any potential future claim to her child Balder.

Thereafter, she simply (turned) gave her back to him and walked away.

How ironic life was; how fickle her fate had been! As the distance between them grew, her thoughts (strangely enough) inexplicably had veered to Longze, she heaved a deep intake of breath and then sighing, she gloomily looked up at the smoothly sailing clouds in the sky.

Mercifully for the time being, her precious son Balder, had been (albeit temporarily) placed in the competent care of a far deserving, a virtuous human being, Longze. young as he was, he was far more reliable, a good father to her son. But she knew that one day, regardless, she would want her son back, she could not do it now, but one day she will find a way, as she refused to shirk her responsibility to Balder.

If only her heart had instead been captivated by Longze…If only he was older… or she, younger.

08-LONGZE

But she could not, not in good conscience, do that to Longze; Asta respected him far too much now, to bind such a noble person, to a loveless marriage. Why won’t her father understand this: Longze deserved to have his own loving wife and offsprings…She expected that one day he would have all that.

Later, that day as she had watched a distant ship’s departure, her wayward thoughts again turned back on Longze. Her conscience ached, her breath caught, and tightness in her chest mounted becoming unbearable with all that shame and guilt, as her brain ruminated all that the virtuous (righteous), young man Longze had endured on her account.

Longze’s most recent generous deed, his registering a will that furthermore ensured Balder’s future comfort and safety, anew filled her heart with boundless gratitude, and brimmed Asta’s eyes with fresh tears.

In the subsequent months Asta’s conscience had persisted in troubling her; meanwhile, the child was entirely innocent of this, and so in the end she was resolved to love him wholeheartedly and bring him up herself, without want. That evening after the repast (meal), she simply broke down and tearfully confessed the truth about the baby’s paternity to her parents. Pleading for forgiveness next, she declared that Yohn Longze had been entirely innocent; that he had nothing to do with her pregnancy and that he had been so grievously wronged. Furthermore, she implored her parents to permit her to claim her child, to bring him home and thereafter, lovingly (tend to him) bring him up.

When the commotion died down, and copious tears were shed by all, both parents along with their daughter showed up at Longze’ door to ask humbly and at length for his forgiveness and to retrieve (re-claim) the burdensome bundle, the precious son and beloved grandson Balder, they had prior, left in his care. That he could at any time can call on them to see Balder.

Longze had again patiently, with decorum listened to Thomas’s sincere explanations, his ensued regrets and profound apologies; then with a solemn expression he had nodded, as soft murmur passed his lips, “Please do not trouble your hearts with any remorse, I was most happy to do it, as I now also concede to your request.”

Longze then turned and went inside, fetched the peacefully sleeping child and delivered him into their loving care of his grandfather. As they were leaving, Asta turned her head to look apologetically back at Longze, to silently beg (implore) his forgiveness once more and to express her deep gratitude for his benevolence; she, however, saw instead, a single tear glistening on his cheek as he abruptly retreated, disappearing back inside his humble abode.

                                                                                

09- GUARDIAN VERNON

“Are you all done now?”  Inside his guardian Vernon suddenly manifesting, asked.

Longze lowered his head to hide the tears brimming in his eyes and nodded.

“Yes, I’m done… And I apologize for all my prior transgressions, as well, for my most recent act of disobedience sir; and now, I humbly await, without protest, my just due punishment.”

“Consider it a lesson well learned.” Vernon, furrowing his brow, sternly ejected; meanwhile, masking his unusual compassionate feel, he for a spell, with an unreadable expression simply looked at his charge (ward). Vernon then shook his head, tad disappointed, for this was not the experience he had wished for Longze to have.

Subsequently, both (without trace), had simply, instantaneously, vanished into thin air.

10- GUARDIAN VERNON AND FLEDGELING (TYRO) DRAGON LONGZE

 

Fin.

 

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.