Venerable Nikon, before his freedom was gained, informed his slave master that Jesus would release him from bondage in three days. As a consequence his master crippled Nikon's legs so that he could no longer walk. Nonetheless, three days later Nikon was carried by God to Kiev unseen. Some time later Venerable Nikon's former master encountered the holy man in the city. The man repented of his former ways, was baptised, and became a disciple of Nikon. Nikon was referred to as "the Dry" due to his intense practice of fasting.