LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - BOOK 10 - THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL - SECTION 1

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL - SECTION 1

At the appointed time, as mark of great favor Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren had sent his own personal carriage bearing the insignia of his office and complete with its impressive entourage to (transport) convey Fradel Rurik Korvald to his own residence where, as the quintessence of invitation had put it, a small gathering of a few intimate friends eagerly awaited the Illustrious Scholar’s distinguished presence.  More a command than an invitation, Fradel Rurik Korvald therefore acquiescing to this requisite social obligation, at noon had graciously entered the Prime Minister’s carriage. Close behind at a prescribed respectful distance had followed the minister of Ceremony Zaur Stugr’s closed carriage.

Some time later both carriages had promptly arrived before the bronze gates of the Prime Minister's ostentatious mansion and no sooner they had cleared the gate, they had been greeted by the delighted Lamont Gudaren who had rushed out at once to personally welcome his honored guest Fradel Rurik Korvald. The Prime Minister then graciously and humbly assisted Fradel to alight from the carriage. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Fradel with the utmost deference, was escorted by Lamont Gudaren, up the stairs and then ushered into the PM’s stately residence.

01- RICH RESIDENCE  OF PM.JP 2

On the way to the main reception hall Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) with Lamont’s humble apologies, was discretely told, that Lamont’s niece and Emperor's chief consort Lady Sejon, one who had advocated for Fradel Rurik Korvald to be in Channing, having caught a slight chill the night before, would regrettably be absent from this small private gathering. There was one other, thankfully, who would not be there and that was the Minister of Internal Security, Egil Viggoaries.

When they finally entered the main vestibule, Fradel saw at once that he had been grossly misled, and that far from it being a small private affair, the atrium had been filled with (surfeit) plethora of eagerly awaiting prominent dignitaries. Fradel was first introduced (with much fanfare) to Lord Shouzi Yozdek, and then with abject apologies quickly whisked away and, in midst of the whirlwind of social protocol (etiquette), circulated to make acquaintances of all the key influential guests, ones that had showed up chiefly to curry Fradel's patronage and, as a bonus, also ingratiate themselves extra into the good graces of their patron P.M. Lamont Gudaren.

02- THE GUESTS AT THE PARTY JP 10

All this while Prime Minister Lamont had never ventured too far from Fradel's side and kept on smiling smugly as though Fradel Rurik Korvald was already his personal tyro (his client or protégé).

Fortunately for Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), he already possessed the required attributes (incredible patience, brilliant mind, wit, eloquent tongue, tenacity and skill) to pass as an illustrious scholar and to with ease, make a success of this most irksome (exasperating) situation: convincing and indubitably impressing (dazzling) even the most astute (most discriminating) elitists and  the not so secret affiliates of Egil Viggoaries,  who’d blatantly infiltrated the shindig with the sole purpose (objective) of gathering pertinent damaging  info on the Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald. After a prescribed respectful time, armed with their inequitable but nevertheless distressingly insipid reports, these brazen spies of the Dark Eunuch had all quietly departed (taken their leave early). The rest of the high society’s most influential and distinguished guests (comprised of, brilliant scholars, shrewd politicians and their wives, and the bold military personnel, not to mention other factions’ covert agents) clad in their gaudy, jewelled attires /garbs had unfortunately, incessantly, swirled around Fradel like erudite cyclone.

03- FRADEL AT THE PARTY

Despite his resilience and tenacity, as the time progressed Nevetsecnuac, had found this supposed academic repartee, a flamboyant display of sardonic (scathing) social banter and gluttony (all under the guise of entertainment), increasingly (disdainful) intolerable; more so, as there had been no end to the cornucopia of sporadic (intermittent) debauched and licentious pranks. To foster this outcome, the guests had all along been continually plied with potent and rare extravagant drinks by the circulating, scantily dressed, voluptuous female attendants; close behind them came the secondary group of pubescent male attendants, carrying trays heaped with various tantalizingly exotic morsels, to gratify even the most discriminating sensibility and tastebuds.

At the appropriate hour, a large bronze gong was struck with a mallet, whereupon the guests were then all shepherded into an elaborate, huge banquet hall.  The specifically (strategically) arranged seating, placed Fradel at hearing range between Lord Shouzi Yozdek on one side and Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren on the other. The rest of the afternoon and all through the feast (banquet), the burnished gold plates on the tables were continually piled high with every imaginable kind of bounty of gourmet dishes; additionally, gilded goblets (with embedded semi-precious gemstones) were kept perpetually filled to the brim with the finest, most fragrant alcoholic beverages. Countless servants bustled about in a silent, choreographed ballet, going back and forth, fulfilling every wish, whim, or outrageous desire of the guests.  The din of the pretentious chatter rising above the orchestrated lively music grated on Nevetsecnuac’s ears, as the ongoing entertainment with remarkable performances by colourful acrobats and dancers, all, served only to plunge him into a deeper state of dismay (heightened state of annoyance). Despite his outward (superficial) calm, his stomach had begun to churn, his livid state fueled by the incessant wagging tongues that vied in a whirlwind of deceit to win still more merit with Lamont Gudaren, himself, or some other official that they had spied from across the room. 

“This room is as empty of truth and propriety (morality) as it is full of avaricious people.” Nevetsecnuac, seated at the honoured position inwardly seethed. His patience wearing dangerously thin, he yearned to escape it all, if only for a brief spell.

A chance finally presented itself when Lamont Gudaren’s attention was drawn-away, by the eruption of a strong disagreement and an ensuing brief, heated (a violent) scuffle (almost a fray, exchange) between the two very inebriated dignitaries on the open verandah. As two of the quests hastened to pacify them, Nevetsecnuac seized this opportunity to ask his host's permission to be excused and, to visit the lavatory.

04-THE GUESTS IN DISPUTE AT THE VERANDA JP 12

After doing his business Nevetsecnuac was in no great hurry to get back and so for a spell he meditatively sat at the edge of the marble fountain; then desiring some more respite, he stood up and strayed off the general path to investigate less accessible sectors (regions) of the elaborate garden.  His lungs thanked him for the deep draughts he took of the refreshing air; meanwhile, light zephyrs (light winds) flavored with the scents of the exquisite flowers that adorned the grounds, sporadically wafted to tantalize his nostrils. Still reluctant to return, he strolled further in, delighting in the gentle breeze that caressed his red-hot cheeks, as he wandered aimlessly over-elaborate bridges and down the winding pathways that skirted miniature lakes ringed (encircled) with token forests.  Orchids decked out rocks and stumps with their delicate blossoms.  His heart and soul gradually lightened as their natural beauty in this tranquil setting lifted the onerous burden of socialization from his shoulders.  Without realizing it, his meanderings had taken him quite ways off (far away) from the banquet hall and, so as not to get too far lost, he was about to retrace his steps back when, hushed voices just then drew his attention to a distant spot beyond the pavilion, to an almost hidden sector,  that was nestled by the carefully manicured tall hedges of juniper and atypical (rare type) trees.

05- BEAUTIFUL GARDENS  AT PM'S RICH RESIDENCE JP 7 2

 

He stood rooted to the spot, fighting the urge to investigate the source of these urgent sounding whispers when, unexpectedly two figures immersed in a serious exchange, suddenly materialized (emerged, became visible) from the shadows of the dense tree- foliage (greenery).

Nevetsecnuac recognized one of them at once as being Zaur Stugr.  “What? Here too?” he frowned. “Would he never cease, not even for a bout, with his incessant plotting? It is tiresome enough deducing the scope of his machinations?” Before Nevetsecnuac could retreat however, Zaur's keen eyes had detected his presence and, quickly masking his momentary annoyed surprise, Zaur grinned and rushed over with his right arm extended, his companion close at his heels, to greet Fradel Rurik Korvald. 

Halting in close-proximity, Zaur Stugr nodded in polite salutation then proceeded to introduce the apparent latecomer to the banquet, as an old, distinguished friend, the esteemed Undersecretary Lenny Sukzor.

The name struck Nevetsecnuac like a thunderbolt; hence, he tersely looked down to conceal his inner shock, before he extended his customary greeting to Lenny.

Nevetsecnuac’s mind, meanwhile, had reeled (whirled) with uneasy questions: What is this… is he the same Lenny Sukzor, a certain affiliate of The Black Molochs?  The same Lenny Sukzor whose name Commander Zhadol had let slip to, Lieutenant Yennic, back at Cyprecox Pass!

Unfortunately, once more, Zaur's trustworthiness had again, come into question. What schemes were being hatched here?  How can Zaur Stugr fit in, with this known ally of Minister of Internal Security, Egil Viggoaries, the most powerful Eunuch in Wenjenkun and an ardent nemesis of Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren? Furthermore, had Zaur just then introduce him as an old, close friend? Conspiracy heaped on collusion, is there no end to this official's vices?

Nevetsecnuac's heart was gripped with foreboding as he remembered how, in all innocence; he had rendered the mysterious key to this now passionately believed, duplicitous (hypocritical) minister. Could this portend future trouble/ hindrance (impediment) for him? No! Nevetsecnuac quickly dismissed that notion; Zaur Stugr had no reason to doubt the story he had given him, though just as well, that he'd altered the truth in part. 

Under the pretense of outwardly congenial chatter Nevetsecnuac scrutinized Zaur more keenly out of the corner of his eye. Imagine consorting so brazenly with the enemy, both invited guests in the home of their presumed ardent foe… hmm? Nevetsecnuac could not help but marvel at such audacity, the cunning complexity beneath the affable exterior.

 No, that was not it at all. Just then another notion quickly manifested in his mind. From everything he had seen and understood, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren was far too shrewd to be, misinformed or be careless, and his security was too pervasive, especially here. With all the hidden spies about it was inconceivable that this meeting could transpire without the Prime Minister's knowledge and acquiescence. More likely Zaur Stugr was conducting (acting in accordance with) his superior's instructions. If so, what diabolical scheme was being- hatched here? What odious intrigue was in the works? Nevetsecnuac again inwardly queried, perplexed with this subtle web of alliances and treachery that were perpetually being spun, under the guise of norm, within the walls of the Imperial Capital Channing.  Since his arrival in Capital city, he had noted partly in dismay, that nothing, no one could be (relied upon) counted on to be what they seemed at face value.  In this diabolically superficial world even nature itself was, molded and manipulated, into a totally controlled representation of, someone's imaginings (dreams) and whims.

06- LENNY SUKZOR (12)JP

Covertly sizing up Lenny Sukzor, Nevetsecnuac found it hard to believe that this strikingly handsome young minister with his distinguished bearing and fine manners was anything other than what he appeared to be: sincere, upstanding, likable, and eloquently articulate being.  Indeed, this amiable mask he wore could dupe even the worldliest, cunning, and calculating official (bureaucrat, administrator).

Nevetsecnuac reflected again on the fact that Zaur had introduced Lenny Sukzor as an old, close friend. Even one as discerning as Minister Zaur, not being immune to Lenny’s charms, could be, beguiled. Was it conceivable that Zaur was unaware of Lenny Sukzor’s complicity with Eunuch Egil Viggoaries? If so, he could be in grave danger. He may be passing on information to the other side, and with the Prime Minister's blessing, no less.

His quandary, however, was short lived. “No, if I believed that, I'd have to have been born yesterday.” Nevetsecnuac shrugged it off. As it were all this array of intrigues, albeit an entertaining diversion, had kept his mind bit off course from the main objective.

Tad ashamed, Nevetsecnuac presently directed his full attention on the undeniable fact that from the very moment he’d arrived at the Imperial city all the culmination of what he’d seen and heard had determined that the invincible, solid defensives and indomitable sentinels shielding the core, more specifically the Imperial Palace in Channing, were quite impenetrable.  Additionally, the multitude of spies and the dire vigilance of the Black Band Guard Regiment, which was Zakhertan Yozdek’s private invincible militia guarding him, had left Nevetsecnuac with but one option: to persevere in this odious disguise until the appointed date of summons.

Nevetsecnuac till then would continue to maintain his aloof (standoffish) disposition, patiently tolerating these upper crusts’ (polite society’s) machinations till it was time for him to strike. This afternoon being, already lost, he forwent any further speculation about Zaur or Lenny’s motives and instead, allowed himself one last (heedless) bit of fun for the reminder of the day. Subsequently, he turned his undivided attention back on the ongoing outwardly cordial, amusing, yet highly exuberant altercation between the two brilliant minds (officials).

Both arguments were properly marshaled, yet Nevetsecnuac was quick to discern (discerned) beneath the lucid, academic exchange the subtle riddles, plays on words, the underlying assertions that underpinned a benign discussion. He could not help but be increasingly impressed by Lenny Sukzor’s ready repartee, his eloquence (of tongue) and the complexity of meanings in the brilliant profusion of his images.  The views themselves were most profound and his judgments so very sound. With his ready command of puns and colloquialisms he was a good match for Zaur Stugr. For the most part Lenny Sukzor would appear most tractable to the points Zaur had put forth then, at an unexpected turn he would, with uncanny precision and skill, insert his own cunning, complexities backed by appropriate quotations to bring the subject over to his own point of view and cast serious doubt over the shambles of Zaur's arguments he had left behind.

Minister Zaur Stugr was no less talented.  A sure virtuoso, his eyes sparkling with mischief, he retaliated in the same good humor with impressive, lucid arguments that oscillated between the two extremes, dazzling Lenny with no less pointed, skewed logic. The irrefutable theories, wrapped in brilliant metaphor sometimes forced Lenny Sukzor to concede and retract what they both knew to be the truth. Then with mutual admiration they exchanged ciphers, whose meanings were different than those outwardly expressed yet, the connotations of it, was clear to both Lenny and Zaur.

07- SPARRING WITH IDEAS AND NOTIONS

The precipitously exchanged wittingly cryptic (ambiguous) words, with slyly ingenious connotations (undertones) beneath it, which Zaur and Lenny had incessantly volleyed (lobbed) between them, would have baffled anyone, save for Nevetsecnuac, who was equally adept (proficient) at, analytical, abstract (conceptual) geneses and their sort of odd logic. In fact, he interjected with articulate subtlety from time to time to manoeuvre the discourse onto an alternate path neither one of them were prepared to take. Unwittingly steered onto this atypical theme (topic) and swept along by its momentum, they had then animatedly discussed its ramifications, under the orchestration of the new games master, Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac). Engaged thus, the trio had gradually advanced through the unfrequented garden paths to eventually rejoin the general area of the bash (party, shindig).

Nevetsecnuac had estimated (assessed) that Lenny Sukzor, having gone to this length to ingratiate himself with Zaur Stugr and Lamont Gudaren, would have stayed on for the duration of the banquet and filled his arsenal with the tidbits dropped by the Prime Minister's increasingly inebriated clientele. Even these snippets could have proved effective if Lenny had the aim of fomenting trouble in the opposing camp. Therefore, Nevetsecnuac was surprised when, shortly after their return, Under-Secretary Lenny Sukzor had discretely asked the Prime Minister's leave (excused) from the party, claiming another, very pressing engagement which, to his deep regret, he could not get out of (away from).

Also of interest was that Lamont Gudaren only put up a token show of displeasure as he acceded to the request. As Lenny Sukzor discreetly slipped away during a distraction provided by a brilliant gymnast, Nevetsecnuac was shocked (struck), by the tacit smile exchanged behind his back by the Prime Minister and Zaur Stugr.

“It’s all a chess game with them!”  He scoffed. Clearly there were no real victims here, only adroit players, each quite adept at strategic manoeuvring of pieces into posts, all the while tugging on the strings of deception and laying invisible traps, to hasten the astonishing yet feral conclusion.

 

(END OF SECTION 1)

                                                                                              ~ 

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC- THE CAPITAL CHANNING - SECTION 2

 Zunrogo having successfully fulfilled his orders (delivering Fradel Rurik Korvald in safety to Channing), the group promptly next (without further due) reached the posh (grand) private residence of the Minister of Ceremony, Zaur Stugr.  From this point onward Fradel Rurik Korvald’s (Nevetsecnuac's) safety and welfare would be the responsibility of this diligent bureaucrat (official). 

The extra measure of caution along the way may, or may not have been warranted, for few would be so bold, some would say suicidal, to make a move against the illustrious scholar in the very Capital where security had always been tighter than a drum. 

Arriving at dusk, Zunrogo’s company found the good minister eagerly awaiting their arrival, having already been informed of their passage through Zier gate.  Zunrogo Tugo was then constrained to account for the slight delay.

 

01- ZUNROGO TUGO- JP  15

Zunrogo being most eager to depart, stating that he had other most urgent business to attend to before the curfew fell, soon as he entrusted the good minister Fradel’s papers, he bid his pseudo fond farewells to the Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) and the Minister Zaur Stugr, then both Zunrogo Tugo and Tizan mounting their steeds, left the official's residence. 

After polite felicitations and other formalities quickly dispensed with, Minister of Ceremony, Zaur Stugr then cordially (affably) escorted (ushered, accompanied) Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) to his luxurious private quarters without further due.  The Illustrious Fradel’s posh residence (accommodation) had been meticulously furnished with all the anticipated amenities, rare antiques, and exquisite fine art objects that a scholar with discriminating taste might require, to be most comfortably settled in. Ten servants, comprising (encompassing) both genders, were appointed to see to his every need or whim.  Following a luxurious bath, toiletries, and a brief rest, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) was then escorted to a large dining hall where, during an exclusive (private) banquet, he was discerningly entertained, offered selective, most discriminating light refreshment, exotic range of delicacies (tidbits) and finally, the most elaborate cuisines.

 At the conclusion of the repast (feast), since Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) did not looked wearied, and particularly did not express any desire to retire; at the suggestion of Zaur Stugr, both men then proceeded through the locked gate, to enter Zaur’s much coveted but rarely shared, private garden, their steps advancing informally (calmly) then, towards the legendary Whispering Willows Pavilion.

Zaur Stugr despite being rather young for a minister, as he was in his late twenties, nevertheless carried a, dignified, resilient (robust, buoyant, spirited) though seemingly understated, yet formidable air of authority; this very much intrigued Nevetsecnuac, impelling (driving, propelling) him, hence, to learn more of this enigmatic minister. Unfortunately for Nevetsecuac, the minster guarded his secrets too well, and since it was fated, both sides remained in the dark of each’s true identity, till it was too late.

 

02-ZAUR STUGR   JP 27

 In that most tranquil and exquisite setting, as they informally strolled through the winding paths of the picturesque garden, they spoke sparingly, from time to time, stopping briefly, only to lend an ear to the distant, well-orchestrated, lugubrious melodies of nature.  At the exquisite Whispering Willows Pavilion, they then partook in some rare, specialty foreign brew (environment); subsequently, spirits mellowed, they then indulged in the most delightful, lighthearted, and seemingly unreserved conversation. Minister Zaur Stugr, though a most attentive host all during the night, had (actually) nonetheless remained guarded in his speech and manner, being always tentatively (cautiously) prudent, not to let their seemingly candid exchange trespass onto any dangerous or forbidden topics.

 As they drank well into the night, a slightly inebriated Zaur Stugr dropped his guard just a fraction.  Seizing this opportunity, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), with certain tact and decorum, discreetly broached the subjects that had been preying on his mind ever since his arrival in Channing. 

Nevetsecnuac knew that it was imperative this one major obstacle be handled satisfactorily before his goal; fortunately, he had seen fit to procure from the real Fradel, the names of the Royal Couriers (RCRB) who had delivered him the Imperial summons.

 All Nevesecnuac needed now was to learn of the exact whereabouts of Canbir Nonng and Cais Hongar so that he could, though he detested the idea, obstruct or permanently impede (hinder) any chance of them exposing him as an impostor.

Through his prior discrete inquiries, Nevetsecnuac had learned from Zunrogo that the members of Royal Couriers of the Red Bandanna (Red Bandanna’s specific subdivision, limb, branch, also known as RCRB), such as Canbir and Cais, being the quickest and most efficient, were perpetually kept on the go.  Each of these RCRB after grueling (demanding) selection process, had been chosen for their superhuman endurance and their indomitable fighting and riding prowess (skills). Once dispatched, RCRB would ride like the wind on the fastest of horses and were authorized to, if need be, fight their way through any obstructions.  There had even been instances where, high ranking officials or aristocrats, who’d caused slight delay of a RCRB, having been promptly killed without consequence (penalty). Depending on the urgency of the task, these couriers could ride unceasingly (incessantly), eating and sleeping on horseback until they reached their destination. 

During his travels, at various points along the throughfare (artery, road, freeway) Nevetsecnuac had seen the Imperial stables set up to supply these RCRB messengers with fresh horses and supplies.  Inns and provision stores (shops) had, additionally, sprung up (like wild mushrooms, as it was highly lucrative business), around these way stations.

As it were, Nevetsecnuac's luck had held; and this piece of intelligence he’d learned from Minister Zaur Stugr, that the couriers in question had already been dispatched the day before Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac’s) arrival in Capital, to relay a routine command to the Military Governor at the frontier province of Tizanakang, one of the two provinces bordering Korion.

 

03- FRADEL (NEVETSECNUAC)  IN CAPITAL

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), inwardly relieved, continued with their innocuous (safe, bland) exchange; until a little while later, he sought to resolve his other concern and again discretely, broached the subject of the latest assassination attempt on (reigning monarch) current Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek. Fradel, volunteering his reasons for it, briefly related part of his observations in the central square, his feelings of revulsion at the sight, and then followed it with his purposefully erroneous suppositions of the results this act portended. Apparently, there was no restriction on discussing the assassination attempt since Minister Zaur Stugr seemed most anxious to correct the esteemed Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) and, readily obliged by conveying all the pertinent officially available information on the subject.  However, he did not end it there,

"Please do not take offense, and I am supposing that your reclusive life has prevented you from being fully informed on the present state of Wenjenkun's foreign policy."

Minister of Ceremony Zaur Stugr waited for an affirming nod before proceeding to impart the major point he wished to cover.

"This most recent assassination attempt has had far more reaching political implications than would seem on the outset."  He cleared his throat with a sip of wine then extrapolated further, bringing up the subject of the military threat from an expansive foreign aggressor, Emperor Deng Hedenko of the nation of Kontu.

 

04- DENG HEDENKO

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) was keenly interested, for he recollected the facts he’d been told, back at the mountain abode, about Lord Hedenko, who was now the Emperor of Kontu. This vilest and most feared Lord had also the very one that Teuquob had been promised to in marriage.  Unfortunately, Hedenko’s present status revealed the sad fate that befell her family. 

Nevetsecnuac listened, with rapt attention, to Minister Zaur Stugr’s seemingly unbiased (equitable), nevertheless enthusiastic, deferential account of Lord Deng Hedenko’s exploits.

"I admit to being rather intrigued with Hedenko's extraordinary military accomplishments from very early on.  I've followed his chartered course when, even at an early age and, despite the overwhelming odds against him from birth, how with his resilience, his extraordinary, cunning intellect and incredible martial prowess, he succeeded in doing the impossible. Then again, his ruthlessness has no equal, save for…. am. Anyhow, as testament to his shrewd military and political maneuvers, he’d consolidated, in that unbelievably brief period, all those unruly, hostile kingdoms bordering his nation, under just one rule.”

“But that is too long an account to go into it now, perhaps we may revisit the topic at another more opportune time when, I can impart to you in detail, the long chronicle of his incredible achievements, for they read like a textbook of legendary military strategies."  Zaur dismissed this line of thought with a wave of his hand then returned to the most current political events.

Minister Zaur Stugr instead, told Fradel how Hedenko, still coveting more territories, had sent his invincible armada across the treacherous channel, with great army numbering in the hundreds of thousands on board, under the command of Field Marshal Yatzin Surge. Having landed quite recently infract, on the shores of the continent, Field Marshal Yatzin had already annexed the inconsequential country of Duriok.  Their real objective was, of course, to annex the neighboring state, Korion.

 "Unofficial reports had already reached His Highness Zakhertan Yozdek, that this foreign aggressor (antagonist) had wreaked havoc all along its path to the Pokesh River." Minister Zaur Stugr smiled wryly. 

"This, however, has aroused little concern in our political arena.  As to the proposed non-aggression pact between Kontu and Wenjenkun," Zaur shook his head thoughtfully, "Well, Emperor Hedenko has more than once adopted the sure strategy of allying himself with more distant states while attacking the one close at hand.  Soon, however, his allies find themselves on Kontu's border.  You can imagine the initial reluctance of our Illustrious Sovereign, despite all assurances from Hedenko."

Zaur digressed, "You must understand that our country harbors no particular affection for that den of wolves, Korion.  You see, from the time our victorious armies subjugated that country there has never been any obvious, outward signs of resistance, outbreaks of rebellion, or even any inkling of trouble brewing from that quarter and they have kept up with their yearly tribute in a timely manner.  However, they are an aggressive race and after the…" Minister Zaur Stugr stopped abruptly, dropping his head to become lost in thought.

                                                                                ~

Nevetsecnuac surmised what was on his mind, for as part of his studies he had learnt from Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon, of Wenjenkun’s long standing trouble with Korion and, the last battle, which resulted in the annexation of Korion. The old Sovereign Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir, who properly duped, sent Zakhertan, with unlimited command of the expeditionary forces, to eliminate this pesky border threat; this done, Zakhertan then had retaliated, evened some personal old scores (settle old vendettas).

Though the brutal campaign and the purge in aftermath, had transpired during Lord Asger’s youth, he’d come to know well enough from hearsay (word of mouth), all about Zakhertan’s shrewd and gory policies in that country.

 Then only a Field Marshall, Zakhertan Yozdek, (with a strong backing of his influential family, who were the real instigators for Korion’s annexation,) harbored grand ambitions which eventually came to fruition, ending the benevolent reign of Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir.

The once mighty state of Korion, which was such a bone of contention with Zakhertan Yozdek, had always been a cantankerous, troublesome territory despite its small size, as it had always been inhabited by several, warring, fierce, hostile, nomadic tribes.

But even before this, Zakhertan and his supporters had first set their sights on this mountainous region for three good reasons: one being the rich mineral resources, some already being mined, others yet to be developed; the second, the coveted stock of the finest breed of war horses known to men and third, because their weapon makers turned out supreme swords whose superb strength and cutting edge were unrivaled anywhere in the world.

 This race of people had only one known weakness to be exploited, their superstitions, which dictated nearly every aspect of their lives.  Still, despite this flaw, this proud nation had never been totally subjugated despite many large and costly campaigns mounted either by Wenjenkun or by the other neighboring states.

As for the personal grudge Zakhertan Yozdek bore for this country, well, it had festered for (nearly a decade) a very long time, before Zakhertan finally got his opportunity to act on it.

 

05

It had all started (happened) when Zakhertan was a young man, a minor officer attached to the staff of the incompetent General Ziek Kizer and when the General’s forces suffered a crushing, humiliating defeat at the battle of Lekoza.  Zakhertan Yozdek was taken prisoner with a handful of others whose lives were spared and enslaved thereon, doing hard labor in one of Korion mines for more than a year, until he had engineered his brilliant escape. Zakhertan never spoke of the humiliation and what type of degradation he’d been subjected to, but from that time forth, he had sworn to crush this proud nation and visit upon it the indignities he, himself, had suffered at their hands.

 His chance had finally come when, after gaining promotion to Field Marshall, the Sovereign Anguan Binchan of Korion had, through the efforts of (clandestinely provoked by) the Yozdek family, offended then Sovereign Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir.  Thus goaded, His Imperial Majesty had authorized the Field Marshall to head a force of seven hundred thousand troops into Korion to secure that border and same time, exact vengeance on the impudent Sovereign Anguan.

Engaging in a series of fierce battles with Korion's invincible army, Zakhertan Yozdek conducted a brilliant campaign that eventually gained him the advantage. 

Through his unconventional, but ingenious, ruses he had divided the Korion forces then broken through to follow the path of least resistance to the Capital City of Korion.

 After a siege of less than two months, forty-five days to be exact, the main body of Wenjenkun's army had entered the city.

Given free rein by their commander, his blood thirsty troops massacred the populous without mercy and razed many historic buildings and monuments.

                                                                                  ~

"Let us just say that they trouble me.” Zaur Stugr suddenly resumed where he had left off, breaking (ending) the long, prolonged silence.  "Fortunately, I do not stand alone in this, though you may call it just a gut feeling if you like, for I have no facts to substantiate my suspicions."

He looked straight at Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), "They're a proud nation, you know, never before subjugated by anyone despite their small size.  Their fierce loyalty to their Sovereign is commendable.  It sort of reminds me of the way…” Again, he stopped midway.

 "No matter," a wave of hand dismissed his next string of thoughts.

Zaur reached for the cup, "I hope this particular vintage from my private reserves is to your liking.  I'm certainly no connoisseur but I find the fragrance more pleasing to the senses than the commercial vintages.  It sort of overwhelms, perhaps even intoxicates one."

In truth, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) could not differentiate (distinguish) any variation between this one and the four others he had sampled on this night.  In his view they were all exceptional infusions, all smooth as honey and fragrant as orchids.  He nodded in appreciation, nonetheless.

Placing his cup down, Minister Zaur Stugr leaned back.

"A short while ago, emissaries from both Kontu and Korion paid their respects at the Imperial Court.  You may well imagine what Korion wanted."  Zaur Stugr shook his head.

 

 "Claiming now that they were a protectorate state, they argued that whatever threatened them also threatened Wenjenkun and that it would be in our best interests to provide them with the necessary armament and manpower for them to defend their borders against the foreign aggressor; then came the turning point.  Kontu's emissaries arrived bearing rare, exquisite gifts and their terms were rather reasonable; the non-aggression pact I told you of earlier.  Their assurances appeared to be quite sincere and many of the members of the Advisory Council were swayed to accept their terms.” Minister Zaur grimaced (made a face).

 

“Anyhow, with these Advisory Council members’ full backing, the Kontu delegation submitted to His Royal Highness Zakhertan Yozdek a sealed document originating directly from Emperor Deng Hedenko himself, written, they say, by his own hand.

I have it, good authority that, within its content, Hedenko had also promised a long-term trade and affiliation and gave his personal assurance that there would be no further hostility (aggression) between the two Kingdoms.  Hedenko swore that Kontu's aim all along had been merely to gain a small foothold on the continent to develop the long neglected and mutually beneficial trade between Wenjenkun and them.”

Minister Zaur nodded absently.

“Furthermore, in return for their exercising control over Korion, they would maintain that country as an independent vassal state of Wenjenkun and would double the yearly tribute paid to Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek’s court. The shrewdest of the Advisory Council advanced their favorable disposition towards the offer, promoting Kontu's move as a way to save Wenjenkun the expense of maintaining an occupying force in a troublesome region (area) as well as reap more benefit from that expendable nation."

Minister Zaur Stugr again nodded, this time more animatedly, as clearly, he was enjoying Fradel’s rapt (engrossed, gripped) attention. 

"All the while, it now appears, a vile conspiracy to completely incapacitate our state was in the works.  Yes, who could have expected it?  The emissaries were most cunningly convincing after all.  Well, after reviewing all that was at stake and weighing the anticipated gains and probability (prospect) of losses, it appeared that Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek was on the verge of inclining towards Kontu's proposal when, fortunately for Wenjenkun, a highly regarded seer and diviner, Dwengzur, made a timely intervention and warned our Sovereign to stay the negotiations.  It is my understanding that the seer Dwengzur had also predicted the exact place and timing to the hour of the assassination attempt.”

 

06 -DWENGZUR

 

“Anyhow, it was a great surprise to those senior members of the Advisory Council, and of great interest to us all when it was found that the conspirators were none other than the emissaries from Kontu.  Oh, the corpse's condition was far beyond any positive recognition by the time Dwengzur had finished.  There were reports from the palace that night of the most fearful noises and smoke coming from His Highness' private bedroom.  Dwengzur is known to be able to command great power, and I would hate to be the foe he turns against."

Minister Zaur Stugr waved his hand to forestall Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac’s) questioning glance, "No, there were no eyewitnesses save, perhaps, for His Highness himself.  As I understand it, the bodyguards stationed outside were locked out at the crucial moments and were unable to afford any assistance.  Whether this was by accident or by design, it can only be illuminated by Dwengzur himself.

“Unfortunately, he mysteriously vanished immediately after the combat, and no one has seen or heard from him since.  Indeed, it was most strange.  The guards outside the Imperial Staterooms saw him turn the corner of the hall as he walked away, but the guards at the next corridor never saw him come round that corner at all.  Pouf, he vanished into thin air!" Minister Zaur Stugr smiled as he drew a dust-devil in the air beside his ear.

"Now the rumor is circulating that Dwengzur was a Heavenly Sage sent to assist Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek. His Highness may allow the unthinking populace to, from time to time, indulge in such superstitions, but we are men, not fools. Now I don't need to tell you how much irritation Dwengzur's disappearance has caused.  I'm afraid I can't go into how the assassin penetrated the Imperial chambers.  If it was known the answer would probably be kept secure anyway, but the truth of the matter is that only Dwengzur knows for sure.  Already many have paid dearly for the lapse in security.” Minister Zaur paused at this point to take a sip of wine, to relieve his parched throat.

 

"After that decisive combat the actual corpse of the assassin was discovered to be in pretty much the same horrendous condition as you, yourself, saw it when you passed through the central square.  Though the body was disfigured beyond recognition, there was enough evidence on what was left of the clothing and jewelry to positively identify the corpse as that of one of the emissaries from Kontu.  Oddly enough, it was the most suave and persuasive one at that.  He'd had us all completely beguiled by his distinguished, regal bearing and his seeming sincerity.  Based on this proof the remainder of the conspirators were promptly arrested and interrogated at length.  Under extreme, but necessary torture their sinister plot was disclosed in its ingenious entirety and the confessions that were extracted by Egil Viggoaries himself were promptly brought to Court for His Highness' perusal.” Minister Zaur Stugr was highly pleased, observing Fradel Rurik Korvald’s spellbound (enthralled) demeanor; this encouraged him to further embellish facts.

 

"What fate befell them, you may ask? “He took in a long, extended breath and exhaled it slowly, (drawing out) prolonging the suspenseful air.

 “Well, considering that theirs was the greatest crime that could be committed against our state, His Highness was most lenient, though still swift, and effective, in his response.  Charged with spying and attempted regicide, they were slowly dismembered.  The torn pieces of proposed treaty jabbed in the mouth between the teeth of each decapitated heads and the sliced body parts were all then stuffed in bags along with some dog excrement and promptly returned to Emperor Deng Hedenko.  You might well say it is all thanks to the inscrutable Dwengzu that their villainous plan (goal), of removing the only real obstacle to their subjugating Wenjenkun, His Royal Highness Zakhertan Yozdek, was timely intercepted (stopped). Now our two countries are in a state of war and Korion, however undeserving, has gotten the authorization for the armament and military manpower they had requested.  One can only hope that the Korianese use them in the manner intended and that we don't live to regret this decision."

"Even if I fail, I shall not fail." Once more Zonar's uncanny prediction (words) promptly intruded into Nevetsecnuac's (Fradel’s) thoughts; Nevetsecnuac was distracted from pursuing that thought to its conclusion however, by what Minister Zaur had said next.  His uncanny farsightedness, on the sly alarmed Nevetsecnuac; but to his relief, Minister Zaur Stugr summarily abandoned the hypothesis.

 

 

(END OF SECTION 2)