DRAGON LONGZE FALLS IN LOVE (BOST ORIGINAL STORY, 2026 PART 3)

Fortunately, resourceful Brenda had tracked Berdis’s (Longze’s) residual scent and found her elder sister still unconscientious, having reverted back to human form, though naked and collapsed (slumped) on the dirt ground of a huge cave.  And fortuitously still, Brenda had the mindfulness to have brought along some coins (funds) and also, some of Berdis’s clothes with her. 

01- LONGZE AND BRENDA  (6) JP

Later on, when Berdis (Longze) had regained her consciousness, because of temporary amnesia brought on by her ordeal (trauma), she could not at first recollect what had happened the previous night- her reckless consumption of realgar wine and the resultant consequence; thankfully, her younger sister Brenda was there to, while helping her dress, clarify not all, but some of the previous night’s incidents (events, instances) for her, till Berdis’s full memory was restored.

For speedier return home, they charted a boat, using three coins of the funds which Brenda had brought along. They used the other two coins for purchasing some raisin hot buns and two waterskins filled with refreshing brew (beverage, orange juice) from one of the food stalls, as breakfast to be consumed while on board.

Subsequently, as the boat negotiated the choppy waters, for it was rather overcast and windy that day, to lessen the impact, Brenda after momentary hesitation, choosing her words carefully, with apt sensitivity told Berdis (Longze) the regrettable, far graver consequence of her irresponsible act, that had unfortunately begotten (caused) the death of her husband Jedrik.

Mercifully, Brenda had forgotten her money purse and having returned abruptly, made that grim discovery. She (the fairy) had not disturbed anything, simply locked up the house, deposited few essential pieces of clothing just in case in a bundle (residence, abode) and before the residue trace went cold, had hastened out, eventually discovering Berdis in the depths of the huge cave.

Though Brenda had done her best to console her elder sister, to her consternation Berdis had remained irresponsive and frozen; simply beyond reach, she’d with a blank expression stared into the void from then on. Alarmingly, she had stayed that way, eerily silent, till she had reached home.

Grief-stricken and heart palpitating wildly, Berdis had then rushed back to her bedroom at once, and finding her husband’s lifeless body covered by a cloth, slowly pealed the cover to kneel by his body, and cupping her face, only then, came the flood of tears. She’d tragically wept and wept.

02-JEDRIK NENZO (93)JP

Eventually setting aside her grief, Berdis (dragon Longze) and Brenda (Green Snake, the fairy), moved Jedrik’s lifeless body onto the bed and set him up as though he was simply asleep; then seated by the hearth (fireplace), they wrecked their brains to find the means to reverse this tragedy. Berdis (Longze) you see, would not surrender to loss that easily. Berdis deciding on what course to take (process to utilize), she then locked herself into her bedroom leaving Brenda to stand guard at hallway, as it was essential, all during her trance state (meditation, séance) she was not disturbed.

 Longze sat cross-legged on the floor; her eyes focused on the flickering flame of the tall candle before her, her breathing regulated, she then willed herself to enter a deeper meditative state. Her mind penetrating the deeper subconscious (subliminal, near unconscious) state next, the manifest vision showed her the interior of the, now all locked up and abandoned wooden cabin in the dense forest, where once Longze had happily dwelled.

Subsequently, Longze’s ethereal (otherworldly, ghostly) form with her intact retentive memory, telepathically (clairvoyantly) transported to the very cabin, she figuratively speaking, began rampaging through the dust ridden, shelved books. Finding nothing useful there, she next sought to retrieve the more pertinent (relevant, apposite) ones stored in the cavity behind a false wall. Even Haskell did not know of this hiding place. The secret wall panel now pushed aside, Longze, reached in and withdrew (fetched) her old, personal diary carefully concealed at the very bottom of the stacked pile, untouched for many years. The lock now with a click opened, inside pages flipped by as she quickly perused the documented entries one by one.

03- PERUSING THROUGH DIARY

In those days, when the Immortal Haskell was often gone absent from the cabin, she had braved many a time and sneak peaked (sneakily gleaned) at the information from the pages of Immortal Haskell’s closely guarded ancient book which he had hidden in his luggage. Longze’s photographic, acute memory had permanently stored it all where it lay at the back of her mind; however, some of it had been carefully recorded (documented, registered) in her diary. She needed to ascertain (discover) that pertinent, forbidden knowledge, akin to one she now desperately sought, to reverse this tragedy.  And then… there it was…Lo and behold, she finally came across it, exactly the information she sought!

                                                                                    ~

Her first (previous night’s) transformation into a dragon, after her drinking the realgar wine, had been a flux; however, she’d also obtained the precise knowledge now from her entries in the journal; more importantly, that there was a sure reliable way to achieve this aim. Long forgotten memories rushed back to make her smile:

Her ability to transform into a dragon, had been, long ago gleaned (picked up, espied, learned) when once in her playful mood, she’d quietly snuck close behind, and peered into the ancient book Immortal Haskell had intently been reading. Though, when questioned, fearing master Haskell’s ire, she’d vehemently denied seeing anything at all; nevertheless, she had a keen, retentive memory, which at present came very useful. An impish (naughty) smile for a fleeting moment lifted the corners of Longze’s lips, as she, furthermore, recollected all her other mischievous ways in those days spent with Immortal Haskell; so much had changed since then… Berdis (Longze), abruptly dismayed, could not help but heave a deep sigh.

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04- IMMORTAL HASKELL (34)

Perhaps the certain fact should be revealed at this point, that Immortal Haskell was far more than what he’d led on. He was in fact, the fifth appointed secret ornery (willful, crabby) custodian (guardian) of Longze. His meeting, and thence subtle interference with Longze, was by no means coincidental; nor was his supposed careless conveying of immortal pills; or the accidental transmission of key (strategic) knowledge from that forbidden book, that proved invaluable to Longze- so that he could endure and eventually succeed his subsequent, various dire ordeals.

                                                                                             ~

 

At the successful conclusion of her meditation, Berdis had succinctly appraised Brenda of her intent. Once more Brenda was left behind to care for her husband Jedrick’s corpse and to keep him secure; Berdis (Longze), armed with the vital knowledge, in her dragon form thence, before she reached her full size flew (lunged, escaped) from the open window.

05- BERDIS (lONGZE )FLIES OUT THE WINDOW  AT NIGHT (7)JP

 Berdis (Longze)speared through the clouds, and then in lightening speed sliced through the upper atmosphere; she arrived at the Islet magic mountain Mount Hellmar, permanently hidden (from all mortal eyes) by the miasmic (mephitic, vaporous) clouds, in midst of a vast ocean.

06- THE MAGIC ISLAND

 

The instant Longze’s feet, touched the soil, she reverted to human form then; by carefully (noting) observing the secret tracks, she soon reached the massive (colossal) obsidian rock of a steep incline (gradient). She patiently waited for the precise moment, when the light of the (eclipsed) second moon streaming down for a spell, two minutes to be exact, revealed the secret, celestial (consecrated, sacred) doorway on the obsidian boulder (rock, sarsen).  Longze, standing before it, invoked the specific incantation she’d long ago gleaned from the Immortal Haskell’s book and then pressed her right palm over the configuration of the eye (outline, shape etched) on the surface of the rock.  With an aery sound the jet-black obsidian door slid opened, though for only one second; she hastily entered it, therefore, trespassing into the hidden unworldly realm.

In that pitched darkness, acting purely on instinct, Longze carefully advanced further into the interior, at times negotiating the perilously narrow, full of shard, ledges (projections).  Suddenly a hairy claw gripped at her left leg, she yanked it free, then with the quick flip of the forefinger and thumb, which produced a flame, she found herself staring at the most hideous monster.

07- THE MONSTER IN THE CAVE

The monster however was chained to the wall of the cave, and when she, getting a grip on her fear, moved away from his reach, he whimpered, showing fangs but desperately clawing the empty air. Longze’s initial fears jettisoned (discarded, dumped), she studied the hideous creature more intently; there was no real malice but instead, an unmistakable pain and misery registered in those pupils. His chest heaved painfully each time he inhaled and there were obvious burn marks festering, some of it black, where the silver metal of the (links) chain touched his skin. How long had he been imprisoned there in the pitch, ranched, sulfurous, suffocating air, forced to endure such anguished existence, without end? Longze could not help pitying the poor creature.

Subsequently, she did something that might have seemed unwise, but she felt perfectly right about it in her heart.

“I’m not going to hurt you... I simply wish to help.” She approached him tentatively.

He stopped his low growl resonating in his throat and then, inclining his head, almost with aghast hope, he simply stared at her.

 Longze’s razor sharp gaze, thoughtfully for a time perused (examined) the chains constraining the monster; then, she smiled at him placatingly and placed her free hand (palm) on the thickest part of the chain- which held a tiny almost indiscernible, strange (marking) engraving on it- binding (fastening) his chest.

Subsequently, in a clear voice which resonated in the air, she invoked the ancient spell (an incantation), one of the few ones she’d learned from Immortal Haskell. For few seconds silence reigned, and then, with a ear-splitting crackling sound all the chains binding the monster, one after the other shattered into bits and cascaded onto the dirt floor that hungrily swallowed it all.

08- RAVEN PRINCE THORSTEN JARL

More remarkable still, that very instant the hideous monster was no more; in its stead stood a handsome, vigorous, stout young man, with long straight black hair down to his shoulders, brilliant blue eyes, clad in black garments  and was of about twenty years in age, who looked to be of royal descent (pedigree, lineage). He also had projected from his back, magnificent, jet-black wings. With tearing eyes, he at once fell on his knees and bowing his head, thanked her most profusely, for her mercy and for his rescue.

Longze dismissing it, urged him to rise to his feet; after the formal introductions, she’d then learned succinctly that he was an immortal crown prince named Thorsten Jarl from an ancient Raven Kingdom (raven-elf, fairy land), who’d been maliciously deceived by an evil entity (the devil) Nihasa, that coveted his beloved wife and his kingdom. 

09-RAVEN CROWN PRINCE THORSTEN JARL AND WIFE JUYIN (26) JP

Four days prior, when the Crown Prince Thorsten Jarl was to be crowned as the new Sovereign, the Prince had been shrewdly lured to this magic island, then after a desperate struggle (battle), was cunningly vanquished (defeated). Nihasa then, while the Prince Thorsten was rendered helpless and in semi-conscious state, had uttered an antediluvian (ancient) incantation which had transformed the demon into the prince’s exact replica (likeness, facsimile). Before the culprit Nihasa had left the island, however, he’d additionally spun another two primordial spells, one which transformed Prince Thorsten’ into a hideous monster, the other, that magically imprisoned (confined) him there, till he torturously perished. Thorsten Jarl had been nearing the end of his life, when Longze, his benevolent saviour, had provided him this rare chance of, return and retribution. 

Thorsten Jarl had naturally asked if at present he could be of any help, however, Longze had sweetly refused and urged him instead, to in haste return and re-claim his kingdom.  And so, after his sincere declaration that he would thereon forever be in Longze’s debt, and that one day he would fully repay her for her kindness, they had quickly parted ways.

                                                                                       ~

Longze then going the opposite direction and, further inward of the pitch, abysmal cave, had encountered many more hazards; nonetheless, she traversed (crossed) the sometimes unstable, shifting, rock bridges, followed through several subterranean caves, and braved countless other reticent (taciturn) or hostile phantom beings (that flew, floated or slithered), to eventually, steal the magical, glowing purple mushroom, in the centre of an islet (island, isle), surrounded by fast flowing, swirling (whirlpooling, eddying) molten lave.

10- MAGIC MUSHROOM

Returning home, she at once set to work, to concoct (produce) the medicine (remedy, cure): she shielded her breath with a cloth, for the purple mushroom as it was being crushed let out toxic vapours; contents reduced to a pulp, it was then boiled, to make tea with it; when it cooled, the liquid was carefully poured (in trickles) down Jedrik’s forced open mouth.

Once ingested (consumed, downed, drunk), the color gradually returned to Jedrik Nenzo’s pallid face and so, he was swiftly restored back to life. Naturally, this fact had been kept from him.  (Meanwhile, Heaven had taken notice and Longze later on, would have to answer for this breach/violation.)

As it were, though Jedrik had fully, blessedly recovered, unfortunately thenceforth a strange alienation dogged their marriage. Inwardly terrified that his wife was not human and being ignorant of her heroic efforts to save his life, Jedrik from then on shunned any intimacy with Berdis and this further strained their relationship.

Desperate to regain his trust, Berdis one day played a rather ingenious ruse on her husband. Her white silk sash was turned to a small scale living white dragon and, with this as a plausible explanation; Jedrik was led to believe that the scarf was what had frightened him.

Gradually, over time their mutual affection was regained, until that is, when one day Jedrik again chanced one the spiritualist Khronos in the border marketplace.

11-KHRONOS (17)JP

Latter still harboring intense envy and odium (hatred) for his old nemesis, with the black heart Khronos again planted the seed of suspicion in Jedrik’s heart, hinting that his wife was not above playing dirty tricks on him. Terrified, Jedrik was then given a possible solution to his dilemma: “Become a monk and live at the temple; that’s one place (built on a sanctified, hallowed ground) the demon that is your wife, won’t be able to reach (touch) you.”

At first Jedrik had remained reticent, as he’d been torn between the love he felt for his wife and the fear of her.  Subsequently, with his head and his heart still at war; his ambivalence seemingly eternal, he decided to defer any decision till later.

“All right,” Khronos acquiesced. “But since we are here, you might as well see the place. It might help you reach an apt decision, should the need arise in future.”

12- MONASTERY ON AN ISLAND

And so, on the wily urging of Khronos, Jedrik and Khronos boarded the craft. Together they crossed over to the river island where the sanctuary, the temple that housed many monks, was built more like a fortress. Jedrik was shown his possible accommodations (lodgings); before Jedrik, who had then questioned his choice, could react, he had unfortunately found himself essentially incarcerated (gaoled, imprisoned).

13- JEDRIK NENZO (39)

“This is for your own good.  You should be thanking me for saving your life,” Insisted Khronos, as he turned the key to Jedrik’s cell door.

As it were, the vindictive Khronos had earlier on dispensed some funds, all the while spinning a convincing yarn, therefore eliciting the cooperation of the abbot and monks of this sanctuary.  They were led to believe, they were doing this for the salvation of Jedrik’s wayward, doomed soul. They actually were convinced of the fact Jedrik had been for some time now, without his knowing, been enslaved (his core life force and human soul was being slowly ingested, siphoned off, devoured) by the evil incarnate, the demon white serpent that was also the demon white dragon, one and the same.

                                                                               ~

Four days had passed and Jedrik had not returned from his short business trip to the border marketplace. An in dept inquiry revealed Jedrik’s last known position and the specifics (particulars) of a companion he’d been seen with. The details of that contact (acquaintance, fellow) left no room for doubt. By then Berdis was worried and anticipating the grievous outcome, she shared her intentions with her sister Brenda.

On the following night Berdis, intent on breaking her oath (of never transforming into a dragon) to Jedrik, she stood in a small clearing (a field) with her sister Brenda beside her. Subsequently, under the canopy of stars, a gentle breeze caressing her cheeks, she gazed briefly at the crescent moon, then invoked the ancient spell which summoned her inner force and instantly transformed her into her innate (inborn) self, which was the white dragon.

Brenda alighted (perched) on her back, the two set off on the projected (expected) rescue mission. Unfortunately, Khronos had anticipated (predicted) this move and additionally spun an incantation detrimental to dragons; moreover, he then awaited at the ramparts with an armed, sizeable force of monks, purportedly to eliminate this menace once and for all.

14- KHRONOS WAITED WITH THE MONKS EXPECTING STRIKE (37)

Emboldened by the solid defenses in place, “Vile Demon!” Khronos, grinding his teeth, bellowed from behind an impenetrable shield. “You cannot feast on this human. It is our solemn duty to protect unsuspecting humans from one such as you!”

“I have harmed no one and helped many,” protested dragon Longze, projecting it in human vernacular. “Surely the demon is he who deliberately and maliciously separates (divides) man and wife!”

“Save your breath sister, he won’t listen to any reason!” Brenda (the fairy, the green snake) interceded. “Force is our only recourse; he has duped them all, and unfortunately nothing short of violence will get through their solid defenses!”

Longze was averse to violence; she’d hoped to rescue her husband through peaceful means (sensible negotiation) and without resorting to pugnacity (aggression) or bloodshed. Brenda had come along, hoping to be dropped off at a strategic spot, where she could unseen penetrate within and reaching Jedrik, and if possible, release him from captivity. However, Berdis (Longze) had soon found herself under heavy bombardment of relentless hostile assault.

15- MONKS ON THE OFFENSIVE (27)

Constrained by present circumstance, the lovely and courageous Berdis (Longze) and Brenda (riding on top), through evasive maneuvers, sought to bypass the defenses and reach her husband and when that failed, Longze was forced to launch her fiery breath, still careful however, to aim it as means of deterrent attack. Longze could have incinerated them at one stroke, but she chose not to do this.

16- LONGSE FIGHTS ALSO (36)

She was on a mission of rescue not punitive campaign. Furthermore, the incantation, had severely restricted Longze’s powers. Wishing not to bring harm to misled army of monks, Berdis (Longze) and Brenda in the end capitulating (yielding), flew away; however, resolved to endeavor (strive, attempt) fresh rescue on another day.

From within the temple cell meanwhile, Jedrik had heard all that seemingly endless commotion of the battle. Upon discovering that it was his wife’s attempt at his rescue he became adamant to at least stand by her. When things had died down, and many chose to gain some (albeit temporary) respite: Jedrik using his wits, eventually succeeded in escaping from his captivity and securing a moored boat, quietly left the island.

17-JEDRIK NENZO (41)

At long last reaching his wife, both embraced and shed tears, then discussed their future plans involving escaping to obscurity, at lengthy, breathless, talk (conversation).

“I now understand how you’ve suffered for my sake.” Teary eyed Jedrik hugged his wife again and again and same time begged her forgiveness.

“Human or dragon, I shall love you for all eternity. “He uttered (declared) his solemn promise, as he held her in a tight embrace.

18- BERDIS AND JEDRIK NENZO (58)jp

The reunited lovers subsequently, covertly moved to a border town, far, far away. Shortly after, Berdis (Longze), gave birth to a healthy human (mortal) son, Kelby.

Their well-deserved happiness would have been everlasting, had it not been for the despicable, adamant foe Khronos who, unfortunately, again resurfaced to, this time permanently destroy all that Berdis (Longze) held dear.

When the deadly surprise, the potent assault occurred, the fairy Brenda fought intrepidly alongside her elder sister Berdis (Longze) to defend both Jedrik and Kelby. During the fiercest part of the onslaught (attack, offensive, blitz), Brenda (the green serpent, the fairy) heroically, at one crucial point had even thrown herself Infront of Longze, and therefore, suffered the extreme brunt of the projectile (missile, rocket) that had been designed specifically to annihilate dragon Longze.

19-  KHRONOS'S DEADLY INCANTATION (52) JP

Consequently, the supreme impact had instead, utterly decimated (annihilated) Brenda’s true being (form).

Berdis (Longze),  letting out an earth shattering cry, had  instantly reverting back to her human form, had held on to her little sister in a tight embrace, urging her to hold on, to stay with her; but Brenda had sadly shook her head, then peacefully,  just dissolved into million bits of glittering little stars that dissipated (dissolved, vanished) into the air.

Dragon Longze, her fury unleashed, did avenged all her losses; and Khronos, though he’d appealed to Heaven, bit too late, in a desperate plea to be saved- well, he aptly got his just due!

20- LONGZE PUNISHES CHRONOS (71)

He was burned to an ash by the indomitable (invincible) dragon fire.

Unfortunately, Longze, was never the same again, and she flew straight to the top of the permanently snow-capped peaks of the highest mountain range, to spend the remainder of her days, in self imposed solitary confinement, till her sentence was served and she was allowed to naturally pass away.

21- LONGZE FLIES TO THE NORTH (3)

What Longze did not know however, was that all had not been lost to her; Kelby, her son (carrying dragon genetic markers) had survived and was carried away to safety by none other than the Immortal Haskell.

Moreover, through the interference of some immortals who secretly held Longze in high regard, they and Immortal Haskell had cared for Kelby, as well, enabled him to have a long, fruitful life.

Best of all, Kelby did, one faithful day, meet up with his reincarnated parent Longze!  But that’s another story.

The End  

 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)