66. Chi and Shar Chi

When Fergus asked why air was not an element, Wisteria answered that air was similar to energy and to what the Chinese called the Chi.

“The Chi is energy that can be positive or negative according to the places through which it passes and the things it finds on its way. The Chi is good, but it can become bad, and if it does, we call it Shar Chi.

She waved a hand and a bluish white creature that looked both like a cloud and a friendly pussycat appeared.

                         

“Good Chi moves smoothly as silk through harmonious places with harmonious sounds, such as the tinkling of tiny, well-tuned bells and the sweet chirping of song birds,” said the fluffy creature softly. “I must not pass too rapidly or find too many obstacles in my path. Should that happen I would change.”

And the Chi began to do just that. It began to turn into something dark and ominous that resembled a ferocious lion, with angry face and jagged claws.

“If my path is not easy and smooth,” growled the creature, “I bring misfortune and calamity wherever I pass.”

When it looked as if it were about to attack us, Wisteria again waved a hand and the creature vanished.

“It’s not gone,” she said. “The Chi is always really present. To be lucky, it is absolutely necessary to attract good Chi and repel Shar Chi.”

“’Tis good we can’t see it,” grumbled Fergus. “We would live in terror every moment of our lives. Worse than germs it is.”

“Michael, it is time we have a look at your house,” said Wisteria.

And Michael drew a key out of his pocket.He clutched the key of his Apple Island home tightly, closed his eyes and murmurred the words that would take us all there.