The tranquility beneath the tree shade envelops half the pond, while the other half bathes in a dazzling shimmer. The Third Prince twines around a branch, eyes closed, resting, when a wind arises, unusual sounds blending, intersecting continuously.
It's not the leaves, nor the grass, nor the fish leaping in the pond.
It's steps, footsteps.
The White Dragon's eyelids flicker slightly, not opening, and he speaks: "You've arrived."
No one answers, a semicircular shadow steps into the light, silently moving forward, merging with the tree shade.
"One more step forward, you'll die! Don't say I didn't warn you!"
The semicircular shadow halts, swaying slightly, the wind stops, resolutely stepping into the shade.
Shadows merge, the wind roars mightily, lifting the straw hat into the air.
Slash!
Dragon eyes snap open, a flash of light from knives.
"Ah-da-da-da..." The Third Prince shouts angrily, clawing with four paws.
"Mu-da-mu-da-mu-da..." Fat Catfish leaps, waving dual hammers.
