LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE CAPITAL CHANNING – SECTION 11

 

Years later, when the numerous vile and abhorrent deeds accredited to this seemingly docile, bookish scholar Sanzo Tezcat came to light, Zaur Stugr had marveled at how, in moments like these, his guardian/mentor's inner control and patience, had lent such gentleness and wisdom to his treatment of Kundrick.

01- SANZO TESCAT (4)

 

As Kundrick Dufo (Zaur Stugr) was further to learn, it was there and then that Sanzo Tezcat (though a confirmed bachelor) had seen fit, decided indubitably to adapt Kundrick as his son and, to oversee his special training and education.

 

Not long after this, at the annual meeting of the governing body of the Kozurs, Sanzo Tezcat had persisted (held out) in lengthy discussions until he finally secured a unanimous agreement, to have Kundrick Dufo, his adopted son and protégé, be incorporated into the fold and, thereon be molded into the kind of man who could withstand the grueling demands of this formidable and otherwise impenetrable Sacred Brotherhood of Kozurs.

This most ancient and sacrosanct organization derived its intransience (durability) and potency from its elusiveness, the fervent bond between affiliates and members stanch adherence to an unbending, rigorously applied set of rules and regulations. These hard and fast rules had also been instrumental in enabling them to withstand Black Band Guard Regiment and Black Molochs’ attempts to expose, capture or exterminate them.

 

To date the network of affiliate Kozurs was widely dispersed (scattered) throughout Wenjenkun, disguised as ordinary denizens from all walks of life, but many holding important, vital posts in the various provinces which they carried out their covert dealings right under Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek’s oppressive regime.

 

Their numerous daring exploits, feats of deadly precision and brutal assassinations were always attributed, by the Provincial Magistrates, to local factions instead.  In this way these wholly incompetent officials could appear to be implementing (effecting) at least some progress.  Meanwhile, all Wenjenkun felt the pulsing awesome power of the invincible force of the Brotherhood of Kozurs and in the outlying areas (periphery, fringe of Wenjenkun, the outlands), where their subtle but fatal influence reigned supreme, the very mention of the Brotherhood was enough to instill (infuse) sheer terror into the hearts and minds of both high and low.

 

Minister Zaur Stugr smiled sardonically as he recalled how he had finally come to learn, long at last, of Sanzo’s secret life on the very day he had first worn the cap of manhood.

02- KUNDRICK DUFO (YOUNG ZAUR STUGR  JP 2

 

Young Kundrick’s (Zaur Stugr) ensued extensive training had been most demanding (tough) and had tested him beyond unprecedented (unparalleled, extraordinary) limits on stamina, skill, tenacity, wit, will-power and much, much more; but it had prepared him well for the ensued grueling initiation, the entire induction process which had lasted for well over five months.  All these procedures had been designed since ancient times, to extract (weed out and then destroy) all undesirable, less worthy candidates.  As one of the eighteen, Kundrick Dufo (only he and one other he had tested with) survived the harsh ordeals and therefore passed. Those less worthy who had not expired during the trials were allowed to honorably forfeit their lives through ritual suicide to preserve the secrecy of the Brotherhood of Kozurs.

Despite all forewarnings, during these trials, Kundrick (Zaur Stugr) had befriended one boy, only to suffer the consequent heartache as he watched his friend become reduced to the state of a half ghost, so weak that, in the end, Kundrick was obliged to assist in the poor wretch's suicide.

Presently, the bittersweet emotions of Kundrick’s ceremonial admission to the Brotherhood of Kozurs welled up again in Zaur. He re-lived once more in his mind, the moment when he had received his new identity and, from thence (thereafter), been called Kundrick Tezcat, son of Sanzo Tezcat.

03- A KUNDRICK TEZCAT - (YOUNG ZAUR STUGR)

 

Afterwards, in keeping with his promise, Sanzo Tezcat had with due patience enlightened Kundrick (Zaur) on his birth father’s (Sorgun Dufo’s) troubled past. It was then also that Zaur Stugr had learned, how through the ingenious assistance of the Kozurs all along, Sanzo and Kundrick had all those years, with a rich bounty on their heads, been able to stay one step ahead of their (unrelenting) most persistent huntsmen/assassins.

 

Zaur smiled, thinking how, in his first years in the Brotherhood of Kozurs alone, despite their encountering adversities, Kundrick Tescat had won his guardian much reflected distinction through his bold, daring feats making his mentor Sanzo Tezcat (who by then sported a thick long beard and mustache), most proud.

“Still, it had not been an easy time,” Zaur (at present) pensively looked away.

For each time they had escaped the dire hazards by the skin of their teeth and were successfully smuggled to safety, their supporters, and least acquaintances (people they merely talked to or was seen with) would systematically be all, rounded up one by one, by the dreaded Internal Security Force Black Band Guard Regiment, interrogated, tortured then, after being killed, their corpses became forage (food) to the wild dogs.

 

An involuntary shudder passed through Zaur just then as he reflected on the amassed loss of life, all account of them. In order to permanently (forever) escape this peril (danger) from these relentless huntsmen and the terrible inquisition overseen by Zakhertan Yozdek’s uncle Zyonow, one frigid Autumn Day, Brotherhood of Kozurs had proficiently staged both Sanzo Tezcat and Kudrick Tezcat’s odious (abhorrent) deaths by a dreadful fire, that consumed nearly half a block.

04- FIRE AND DESTRUCITON

 

Among the countless victims, two badly charred corpses with identifiable markers, in Sanzo and Kundrick’s stead, had been planted as proof positive, to satisfy the most ardent (zealot), intensive investigation.

Next step had been to have Sanzo’s mustache and long beard chopped off entirely and even his face surgically altered slightly, by a competent physician who happened to be an affiliate of Brotherhood of Kozurs. As a growing youth, Kundrick Tezcat’s features had not undergone too much drastic alteration; only the classic arch of his nose had been slightly altered (reduced), making him in due course, even more handsome and a younger looking lad (guy).

05--ZAUR STUGR (KUNDRICK TESCAT)JP 11

 

Affiliates of Brotherhood of Kozurs had finalized (concluded) their disguise by (equipping) furnishing both Sanzo and Kundrick, with brand new identity papers and unsullied family histories. After which, as Hijarmar Stugr and Zaur Stugr, a supposed widowed father and son, they had been successfully and permanently relocated at a place, their old selves would least be expected to reside. Now as far as Wenjenkun's bureaucracy were concerned, the Clan name Stugr, taken from an actual aristocratic family, integrated with implanted facts, had been so thorough a feat, an achievement, that to date, it had remained irrefutable, never warranting any (least) suspicion.

 

06-HIJARMAR SUGR ( SANZO TESCAT)  (7)

 

Hijarmar  Stugr (Sanzo Tazcat), while covertly maintaining his key status in Brotherhood of Kozurs, outwardly, now residing within the Capital Province, he openly indulged his passion  of archery, spear throwing and sword fighting, riding and hunting, as well, on occasion when he drunk, composing elegant verses (poems), which were the norm activities of typical gentry (privileged elite, nobility), in a military state Wenjenkun and therefore easily overlooked (dismissed, ignored) under the stringent (rigorous, harsh) rule of Zakhertan Yozdek. Hijarmar was careful to be noteworthy but not too much to incur jealousy and serious competition, or to draw unwarranted, superfluous patronage from ruling aristocracy.

 

Even so, in a very short time, he had still, by design, attained the low position of an officer in the Imperial Cavalry guarding the Capital city Channing. Then, however, through his acts of gallantry, proven leadership, and consistent honorable conduct, he’d meteorically risen in rank to hold an important position of a Captain (one of five) of the fifth Imperial Cavalry (mounted troops).

07-- CAPTAIN HIJAMAR STUGR  (SANZO TESCAT) (8)

 

He could have easily risen, three more ranks (to Major, Lieutenant Colonel, then to Colonel) to eventually attaining the most coveted rank of  a First Rank Imperial Cavalry General, but he chose  instead, to mask his true prowess to remain, a mainstream (though circuitous, oblique) Captain of the Imperial Cavalry, to pass just under the radar, so to speak, while he fostered (advanced, cultivated) his true vocation, at being one of the most invincible Chiefs of Kozurs’ (strategic) inner circle.

Meanwhile Zaur Stugr, his son, had enlisted in the Civil sector of the Royal army, as an official/ second Lieutenant, directly under the command of first Lieutenant which served under the exacting Captain Lotar.

Zaur’s chief duties, aside from running errands for two persnickety strategists Neras and Zokan, also included maintaining order of staff assigned to him, as well, writing reports and overseeing humdrum, tedious logistics. While these duties took up most of Zaur’s time, during the night, as an affiliate of Kozurs, he dealt with his other requisite, taxing covert activities. Working within shadows, he sustained his daring, heroic accomplishments to further the Brotherhood of Kozurs causes and, by even surpassing all his mentor's expectations, subsequently vanquishing all viable (feasible) competitors  with his invincible martial skills and his mental prowess, to rise in the ranks to the second top position of ( one of five), An Assistant to, Three Supreme Overseer Kozurs, (ATSOK) in the Brotherhood.

08-YOUNG ZAUR STUGR

 

During this most optimistic time, however, an unexpected perfidy (betrayal), had almost changed the course of Zaur Stugr’s core aspiration.  His most respected and beloved adapted father/ mentor Hijarmar  Stugr (Sanzo Tazcat), in the course of a short campaign, on that faithful day, astride (riding on) his magnificent black stallion, advancing at the head of  contingent of armed cavalry set to eliminate the troublesome indigenous rebels at Cherokon county  Hijarmar  Stugr,  had succumbed to a deadly trap and gravely injured, he’d anon perished.

This had happened while Zaur was still far away overseeing (supervising) a critical mission. He too was concurrently targeted for termination by the same stealth (surreptitious) foes; however, he’d miraculously escaped the dire snare and returned with only minor wounds.  After the required mourning period (during which Zaur had determined the perpetrators’ identities), Zaur had acted swiftly and ruthlessly, though covertly, and exacted the most gruesome revenge on those two powerful, culpable (guilty) nobles.

 

In the meantime, Zaur had unwittingly, because of a peculiar incident at court, had drawn the attention of Prime Minister, who from then on had actively sought to have him transferred to his department and work under him as one of his officers. His competence, nevertheless, in a very short time, availed him to rise to his present prominence (status) of, Honorable Minister of Ceremony. And since then, as this suited him (perfectly) most rightly, he’d worked assiduously to retain this position.

 

Some years later, one of key Kozurs’ founding leaders, one of the Three Supreme Overseer Kozurs, (TSOK), otherwise known as Tengron, had unexpectedly, due to bizarre accident, had passed away. Each elected Chieftain of the (TSOK) held his mighty post with akin omnipotent (godlike) powers, for life; hence, this was a major event for the Brotherhood of Kozurs, moreover, owing to its importance, the weighty position had to be filled at the quickest time possible.

The selection process of the Three Supreme Overseer Kozurs (TSOK) held a particular significance as it was essential (key element) for the lasting permanence of the secret organization. After ten days of grueling competency tests of the would-be candidates,  the prominent seventeen affiliate judges that had been sequestered, virtually imprisoned, (in the ancient Library  that had  chambers through locked doors allowing them semi-comfortable  accommodations for  sustenance, private respite, meditation and  reflection for the same duration), finally on the eleventh day at dawn, after a sleepless night’s deliberation, formerly rendered their firm decision (result), via secret ballot vote, all of it stored in a sealed, metal encasing.  

The iron box under close supervision (and hefty security) in a secret room was thus opened, contents one at a time counted, affirmed, and then the result duly registered (documented) in an ancient book. Subsequently, the much-anticipated announcement would be made by one of the remaining TSOK, in this case either by Bakun or Yanzui.

  

And so, on that faithful afternoon (of the eleventh day), the already assembled most prominent regional chieftains had waited in the large hall, with cautious hope, to hear the outcome.  Many had journeyed from all corners of the Wenjenkun, and in some cases even from beyond its borders, as the Kozur’s controlling affiliates, territorial Chieftains, had vastly expanded their influence and territories to include several foreign nations.

 

Absolute silence ensued the moment Bakun had entered the great hall, so much so that one could hear a pin drop. Everyone’s breath caught when he stepped up to the dais (podium) and with deliberate slowness, unfolded the paper; subsequently, when the name of the Third future Supreme Overseer Kozur (TSOK) was  announced, akin a seismic activity, the foundation of the building shook, result of the collective exhaling of breath, for Zaur Stugr was held in high regard  and was well-liked by the majority of affiliate Kozurs.

 

09- (TSOK) ZAUR STUGR JP 7

 

Zaur Stugr, who was much younger in age than the other two Supreme Overseer Kozurs, from then on with his energetic zeal (ardor) had swayed (ignited fire under) the other two draconian leaders to his way of thinking and brought forth many contemporary changes to the Brotherhood of Kozurs. Up until the time he had assumed the mantle of leadership, the governing body had operated mainly as a self-serving, illegal organization, with dealings of contracted murders, receiving gains from instigated mayhem, illicit gambling, smuggling and extortions etc.  Consequence of Zaur Stugr’s relentless and proficient (gifted) leadership contribution (input), the Brotherhood of Kozurs now underwent drastic and long enduring transformation; moreover,  Zaur had successfully persuaded the governing board that, the appendage (addition) of patriotic causes which furthered the reinstatement of old regime and brought about the downfall of the villainous usurper Zakhertan Yozdek, would be far more gratifying and advantageous feat for Kozurs.  The Brotherhood of Kozurs with their new objective (goal) of finding and re-establishing the lost Prince Nevetsecnuac Alric Therran Valamir, from thereon, had been more able to draw upon unwitting support from various underground resistance movements and staunch loyalist rebel groups, to further enlarge Kozur’s secret sphere of influence.

 

“Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.” Adapting this age-old acumen,

Zaur Stugr had also charted an admirable course in public life, right under the very nose of Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek, to eventually assume the role of a competent, trustworthy, industrious Vice-Minister to His Excellency P.M. Lamont Gudaren.  Shielded by his protective cloak, Zaur had been able to carry out since then, mind boggling clandestine feats (daring activities) right within the bounds of Imperial capital, Channing. As one of the three Supreme Overseer Kozurs, Zaur had also frequently and clandestinely instigated (brought about) more benevolent acts on behalf of those who had ardently, albeit covertly, opposed Zakhertan Yozdek. Moreover, he’d time and again, lawfully, overturned gross miscarriages of justice and brought welcome relief to those who labored under the burden of excessive taxes.

 

Last few years had been particularly exacting, with such rigorous demands placed on Zaur’s time, testing his mental capacity, and exhausting (draining) his physical stamina; but he’d still managed quite well, while competently (proficiently) juggling both positions.

 

 

(END OF SECTION 11)

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITAL – SECTION 21

 When dawn broke Zunrogo promptly knocked at Fradel Rurik Korvald's door.

Permission granted, he entered with a smile on his lips, carrying a bundle in his hand, trailed by the servant boy, burdened with a generous array of breakfast victuals on a tray.

Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald had just finished his packing, having risen early in anticipation of this meeting.

01- ZUNROGO TUGO JP 4

After an exchange of polite greetings, "I took the liberty of ordering you a wholesome breakfast with local cuisine." Zunrogo grimaced, signaling the boy to put the tray on the table and to leave the room at once.

As soon as the door was closed behind him, Zunrogo advanced on Fradel and courteously presented him with the bundle, urging him to try it on.

"I thank you for your thoughtful gift but since I am already dressed…" Fradel could not resist teasing him.

Zunrogo abruptly halted his ready rebuke (and the persuasive argument on his tongue) when he noted the slight glint (twinkle) in Fradel's eyes and understood his jest.  Smiling, he evenly informed Fradel that his account had been settled in full and that, as soon as he was ready, they would depart.

Then, officiously declaring that he still needed to see some last-minute details, he headed out the door before Fradel could thank him for his troubles.

Back in his room, Zunrogo expediently wrapped up all the loose ends. The Innkeeper Kjeld Rosko, having received assurances from the captain himself that his captive family, including his adored infant son, would all be released the moment after their departure, nodded his head in gratitude and then contentedly left the room.

As Kjeld headed down the long hallway, however, a sudden concern clouded his face and he, abruptly for a spell, stayed his step; slight trepidation, almost a glint of fear, fleetingly registering in his pupils as he with lowered head deliberated on the Kozur’s viable rescue plan. “The captain, now there's someone to be reckoned with!”  Kjeld, nevertheless, could not hold back a shiver.

This business of the guard Tizan, however, staying behind to ensure that there was no disruption or deception, seemed reasonable yet; it still put Kjeld Rosko a bit on his unease. With each step, a kind of needling feeling that he could not rightly put a finger on, etched a deeper frown on Kjeld’s face.

“It nearly killed me to be so reticent (taciturn, aloof, quiet); but at least my disguise was effective. And when have the Kozurs ever failed me, or anyone? Now, stop all your needless worrying!” Kjeld admonished self.  Besides, he was certain they wouldn't dare try anything too drastic with Magistrate Liros there; but more importantly, fortuitously, he had the backing of Kozurs.

Kjeld’s fears, bit more assuaged (eased, lessened), he rushed his steps to meet the affiliate agent and possibly receive (acquiring) the long awaited, anticipated, good news, news that his family was safe and away from the perilous predicament. He would be joining them when this whole business was satisfactorily dealt with. Meanwhile, with the captain and his other brutes gone, this Tizan thug, then, could aptly be handled (properly deceived, duped) by the Kozurs. 

02- KJELD ROSKO WAITS FOR THE KOZUR AGENT

Having received secret notification, that the clandestine meeting would instead, take place in the (crypt) cellar, a covert room accessed only by a trap door well concealed behind the stacks of forte (specialty) wine barrels, Kjeld headed straight down there. As Kjeld in partial darkness waited for the agent to show up, seated at the table, his fingers nervously tapping the table, his wild imagination meanwhile carefully enumerated the last week’s odd events. Unbidden, one unsubstantiated fact suddenly snuck (stole) to mind and so, the worry lines once more got etched in his brow (forehead); nevertheless, he strove to ease his fears: “Besides, haven't I dealt with far worse situations and came out of it sailing?  In this line of business, it’s to be expected.  I just hope Leon makes good time, for then…” Kjeld looked at the door, nervous but still satisfied. “Yes, then I can still expect to be amply, if not well compensated for all my troubles and inconvenience. Pity, though, this place would be so destroyed!”

                                                                                 ~

Zunrogo was fastening his jeweled broadsword onto his waist when Tizan suddenly appeared at the door.  He beckoned the guard and signaled him to close the door.

 "Well, is everything all set?"

"Yes sir.  I'll be joining you on the road after the successful conclusion of my task."

"It is imperative that those in question be eliminated without a trace.  None are to survive, understand?"

"You needn’t warn me of its importance, sir." Tizan responded without a shred of conscience.  "Please go with an easy mind.  It (sudden explosion resulting in fire) will be made to look like an accident, warranting no investigation at all.  However, if you wish, I could plant certain incriminating evidence to involve…”

"No, that will not be necessary." The captain cut him off.  "Don't deviate from the original plan."

                                                                                   ~

After breakfasting and having sent his luggage on ahead, Nevetsecnuac (Fradel), now disguised as one of the palace guards, retrieved the papers from their hiding place and secured them in the inner pocket of his garb (uniform) that were, in fact, more comfortable and more suitable for traveling than his cumbersome, restrictive scholar's attire.

After a cursory look around to see to it that nothing was left behind, he closed the door quietly behind him and quickly descended the stairs.  Meeting the Captain in the lobby ready and waiting, he was then (shepherded) lead to the outside where men and horses awaited in readiness of the departure.

03- NEVETSECNUAC IN IMPERIAL UNIFORM

Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) had been forewarned to a certain degree that there would be two guards flanking him, along on the journey, with another to be joining them later, but these two who came to smart attention were not what he had expected.  One he had never seen before and the other.  His eyes rested on the figure of Briac, who had been disguised to look like scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald.

 "I went along with your suggestion of wearing these clothes, sir, but this, this is intolerable!" Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) burrowed his cold gaze on the captain, not flinching.

This unexpected, irate, moral indignation from the supercilious scholar put Zunrogo (for a spell,) at a complete loss for words.

As Captain of the Palace Guards, the most elite force in Channing, and the secret member of the ruthless Black Band Guard, which was Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek’s personal militia, Zunrogo was the fourth most feared, most powerful, invincible warrior/statesman in Wenjenkun; right after Sovereign, the Minister of Internal Security Egil Vigoaries and The Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren.  No other had ever been so brazened enough to stand up to or, been in, least defiance of Zunrogo and lived; more astonishingly still, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), with his features set in firm defiance obdurately had demanded an explanation from Zunrogo.

“Are you goading (provoking) me; do you have a secret wish for death?”

"Sir, this is where I draw the line.” Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) undaunted by Zunrogo’s menacing glower, (look of daggers) obstinately grumbled. “I will not, in all good conscience, have another’s life be put in jeopardy on account of me!"

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) was stanchly (resolutely) considering, rescinding their prior arrangement when the captain, with a curt gesture of his hand, silenced him and roughly pulled him aside. Pinning his face right into Fradel’s, Zunrogo, gritting his teeth, threatened: "You would have been instantly slayed, chopped down for this insubordination; now act like a proper soldier (guard) or else!”

But then, quickly curtailing his fiery temper, in a more moderate tone, Zunrogo reasoned: “I know how it looks, but I assure you, sir, it is necessary."  His cutting tone, nevertheless, was a warning to Fradel, to back off, that, if necessary, he would be carried off, trussed, and bound.

Bearing in mind that he was supposed to be an arrogant but a mild-mannered scholar, Nevetsecnuac (as Fradel), biting his lip, he now checked his derisive (scornful) rebuke.  At that juncture (point in time), a low murmur drew his attention to the side door of the inn.  Nevetsecnuac’s keen eyes caught a fleeting shadow just before the individual darted inside and completely disappeared.  He let it pass.

"I thought you said that there was no real danger," more composed now, Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) turned to address Zunrogo.

"Less for them than you," Zunrogo answered irritably, indicating Briac with his chin.  Raising his voice slightly, on pretext, he admonished Fradel, "Now, sir, I will not have you undermining my authority and demoralizing my men with all your questions."

Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) checked his temper as well, understanding at once that the rebuke was more for the benefit of his double and that there was something graver at stake here.

“Briac, the guard chosen to impersonate you, is the one best suited for this.  His selection was made only after serious consideration."  Zunrogo shifted his body slightly, shielding his face from the view of the guards.  He looked meaningfully at Fradel Rurik Korvald, his gaze and fierce eyes speaking the words that could not be freely uttered, darkness, treachery; furthermore, it warned, stay out of what does not concern you; this turncoat (collaborator) will soon get just his desserts.

Comprehending, Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) turned and looked at Briac with an impassive, blank expression. The guard's face completely ashen, his’s eyes at first looked strangely pained and grave then got filled with loathing when they met Fradel's, after which, he lowered his head abjectly.

Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) returned his expressionless gaze back to Zunrogo, who’d this entire period scrutinized him like a hawk with the cruel half-smile plastered on his lips.  Behind the Captain's seemingly stern mask, his eyes betrayed a profound, impenetrable darkness carrying a brutal, implicit threat not only for Briac but also for Fradel.

04- FRADEL RURIK KORVALD (NEVETSECNUAC) IN ARMY UNIFORM

Unflinching, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) affably (genially) smiled at Zunrogo and he, relenting, perfunctorily smiled back. But underneath the seeming cordiality, Zunrogo pondered. “Yes, you are more than what you seem.  You are no ordinary scholar.  Your aim is much higher. I will therefore watch you, watch you very carefully, Fradel Rurik Korvald, or whatever your real name may be.  It bothers me greatly when I can see that you are not afraid of death, but I will find out the reason why, before this expedition concludes.”

Outwardly tranquil, as if his prior ambiguity had allayed (dispelled), Zunrogo nodded, "I'm glad we finally understand each other; now we can quickly put all this unpleasantness behind us and amicably proceed; as I am most anxious to get started on this trip."

Turning, Zunrogo signaled (cued) the groom to bring forth Briac’s strong steed, inclined his head politely and invited (disguised) Fradel Rurik Korvald to mount up.

 Alternately, Briac was helped by one of the grooms, to mount Scholar Fradel’s relatively inferior mare.

 

                                                                                   ~

(END OF SECTION 21)

THE STATE OF THINGS - SECTION 32

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE STATE OF THINGS - SECTION 32

02- DAG DIEZ

    

At some distance from Hecun’s contingent, Mouro and his two guards, traveling ahead on the major highway, by nightfall had already checked in to a long-established inn and were, indulging themselves in a fine feast and a good measure of the local wine. All during dinner Mouro had been staring at the young waiter, one of the groups that were tending their table.  His exceptional good looks, fine features and delicate mannerisms drew Mouro out to the point of infatuation; discretely at first, but after a flagon or two of wine, Mouro had flirted more openly (uninhibitedly) with the young man.

One of the guards, called Dag Diez, found this rather amusing, joined in the fun but the other, called Kade Luir, having some scruples, found the show most distasteful. Soon as he could, Kade Luir therefore asked to be excused and retired early to his room. After divesting himself from his travel garments, Kade Luir had just slipped under the covers when the other guard Dag Diez staggered in, curses and complaints on his breath.

Ranting and raving incoherently, Dag finally settled down, "That Mouro!  Just because he's in charge, where does he get off!  The gall he has, ordering me around in that manner!  I'll show him!"

 Dag Diez slammed his fist into the door, his face dark with anger.  "He's too much!  I'm not even tired."  He was striding to and for across the room now, rubbing his burning fist.  "Am I less deserving than he?  There's nothing amiable about his...eh?"  Dag sheepishly threw a glance at his companion, who had indifferently shifted and turned his back to him.

"Besides, why should I retire when I haven't even had my fill yet?  All because he wants to indulge himself in perverse pleasure.  Was I crowding him, or something?"  Huffing, he plumped himself into the chair.

After a moment's silence, his mood had changed, "Yeah, he always did like them that way best.  He toys with people’s lives; he likes to play games and moreover, always have be the alfa dog, the domineering one…"

Kade Luir, feigning to sleep with his face to the wall, ground his teeth in anger, or was it jealousy?  He was so incensed with Mouro, and this intoxicated fool that he had to struggle to contain his bursting rage.

"Did you see how annoyed the innkeeper was?  What a sight to see!  That old sourpuss squirmed like a pig back there."  Dag Diez slapped his knee drunkenly and roared.

"But he wouldn't dare openly say a word against it.  He didn’t have the guts!  Even if Mouro hadn't flaunted all that money around, the greedy wimp knows enough to keep his trap shut and his tail tucked between his legs.  He knows enough not to stick his bulbous nose into trouble.  How else would he have lasted so long and prospered so? Boy you are a sound sleeper.”

“Yes sirree… Not by being stupid, that's for sure!  Yes, he knows enough to keep out of trouble."  Dag Diez rose and went over to the other bed, shaking Kade Luir, who was feigning sleep.  "Hey, this is no time to be sleeping, I'm talking to you.  Open your eyes!  Are you making a mockery of me?"

Finally giving in, and checking his anger, Kade Luir pretended to being awakened. Then shaking his head and yawning, he exclaimed that he was still (groggy) tired and demanded that Dag be brief with whatever it is he had to say.

"Bah!  Who needs you?  Go back to your precious sleep if you like." the obnoxious Dag retorted in a gruff voice and waddled back to his chair.

Before long he was singing the same tune to himself.  "That's right; he knows enough to keep in line.  He knows that ones Like Mouro, rich wastrels that they are, are too dangerous to be trifled with and deadly to offend.  I'm not sure, but Magistrate what's his name is, he might even be a distant relative."

Kade, now exasperated, sat up and resorted to fine reasoning to persuade the other to get some sleep.

"Sleep… Sleep?  Why should I?" rowdy Dag snarled as he ignored the drooling down his mouth.

"Eh, your kind will never understand."  Dag idly fingered the copper water pitcher.

"Imagine him having all the fun and not me!  I… stranded here with the likes of you!"  In a burst of anger, he hurled the pitcher violently against the wall above Kade's head.  Luckily there was very little water to spill.

Wiping the spray from his face, Kade Luir clenched his fists, not obliging Dag with a fight.  Quietly reclining again, he turned his face to the wall and remained that way, unresponsive to the vile, disgusting slanders, muttering and provocation of Dag.

"Oh, what's the use?"  His anger spent, his energy consumed by his temper, Dag Diez had finally consented to sleep.  "I might as well get some rest.  Of course you wouldn't take me on!  You know you'd lose.  You just look competent, but you're soft!"

As he pulled up his covers, fully clothed still, he muttered to himself, "And tomorrow, tomorrow, we'll see.  Eh, let him enjoy it while he can…ha, ha, ha!"

Dag’s sinister laughter grated on Kade's nerves.  “Won't he ever shut up?”  But the obnoxious filth kept pouring from Dag’s mouth well into the night until; finally, after several loud belches and yawns, he drifted into a deep, snoring slumber.

Unable to get any sleep Kade Luir tossed and turned then, sitting bolt upright, fixed his brooding gaze on the door, contemplating going after Mouro.

 But what would be the point?  What could he do anyhow?

"He's always preening (grooming) himself like a prize goose," the drunkard Dag stirred in his sleep, "but we'll see.  We'll see how much longer he'll enjoy this privilege."   He snorted a couple more times then rolled onto his other side and began snoring even more thunderously than before.

                                                                             ~

Mouro, meanwhile, after changing his clothes, had patiently waited until all the activity had abated outside his room then, bolting to his feet and with the sealed drum of fine wine tucked under his arm, he headed for the door.

"Don't wait for me, now."  He half turned to address the young waiter, Ted. “I’ll be a while; best you try to get some sleep." Stealing across the deserted dining hall in the dark, he quietly slipped outside and entered the stables.

Leading his horse by the reins, he walked the beast some measure away to the edge of the forest.  At this safe distance, he then vaulted into the saddle and galloped through into woods, disappearing in the paths among the thick foliage.

 He continued to press his fine mare for speed over hedges and ditches as man and mount covered an incredible distance in but a short time.  Finally, he arrived at his destination, the deserted ruins of a temple, hidden among the towering cliffs and ancient cypresses.  Dismounting, he led the mare cautiously across a dilapidated stone bridge spanning a bottomless chasm.

The sentries on duty at the other side were relieved to see that they had accosted Mouro.

03- GUARDS ON DUTY

Hecun, after the formal greeting, asked, "I am indeed pleased to see you, sir, but I feel constrained to inquire what purpose brings you here at this hour.  Were we not supposed to meet at the Magistrate's offices?  And where are your guards Kade Luir and Dag Diez?  I hope nothing untoward has happened to them."

"The guards… Oh no, dear old friend, they are sound asleep and dreaming of the girls or man back at the inn, no doubt."  Mouro's informal greeting put the Head Bailiff at ease.

"I know you're a stickler for protocol, but out here?" he clapped Hecun on the shoulder as they walked to a more private corner of the compound.

 "Let us dispense with the formalities of office.  I'd rather address you as in the past, eh, Elder Brother, if it’s all right."

He waited for Hecun's nod of assent before resuming, "As for my reason for (stealthily, covertly) coming here, I've taken these great pains in hopes of delivering you from an anticipated dread predicament.  Why else?  Tell me, are your water rations not depleted?  That's what I thought; I would have been greatly surprised if they hadn't.  Let's see your map."

Mouro sketched a line of route on the parchment Hecun provided.  "Now, if you start tomorrow along this shortcut I've indicated and, upon reaching the fork, keep to the left for about a day and a half, you should without much difficulty reach the modest inn I'm thinking of.  There one can have their fill of drink and gorge on generous portions of deliciously prepared meals at a fraction of the normal cost which will, no doubt, also please the men.  The proprietor is a bit eccentric, however.  Advise the men not to stare or make any rude remarks about the ugly scar on his face.  No one knows to this day, I suspect, who inflicted it on him many years ago but, if you keep on his good side, he'll lavish you with hospitality, the like of which you have never before experienced.

"But tell me, Elder Brother," Mouro looked at the encampment about him, "surely you had more men than this when you embarked on this journey."

"Two hundred to be exact," Hecun nodded.  "Along the way we suffered several setbacks.  Some were killed and others tried to desert and were appropriately punished but it would take too long for me to go into that right now."  He hoped that Mouro would press him for the details.

"Quite right, we can discuss at length all that later.  We have more immediate concerns we need to address now." came Mouro's disappointing response.

"I'll say this, however," Hecun could not hold back, "along the way we even had a run-in with Zonar but, oddly enough, he opted not to engage us or attempt to free the prisoner."

Robbing the other (Hecun) once more, of a chance to boast, Mouro interrupted. "May I make a suggestion, then?  Since there is no real danger to speak of in this province, and since that cowardly assassin was obviously issuing only empty threats, why should you continue on these remote paths?  Why put yourself and your men through unnecessary hardships?  After a brief stay at the inn, I told you about you can keep to the highway and, in less than three days’ time, you can arrive with ease at Magistrate Rue's offices.  I'll be riding on ahead to inform His Honor of your arrival.  I really should be there now, if it weren't for this detour.”

“Hmm…  Micen Do will be furious about the delay and, no doubt, demand my head on a platter upon our return.  Don't worry, though.  He doesn't scare me one bit and, besides, I know how to deal with him.  As I see it, this was unavoidable.  I had to make amends when, a few days back, it suddenly dawned on me that I had neglected to mention the location of the only well at this temple which still contained water.  Yes, brother, there is another one located here other than the two obvious dry ones you have already discovered.  I stumbled across it quite by accident some years back when I was caught in a similar predicament.  Feeling responsible as I did, I took appropriate measures and raced here over some treacherous terrain in the hope of meeting up with you tonight."

"I'm indebted to you for your concern and trouble." Hecun thanked Mouro gratefully.  "Now, brother, if you'd be so kind as to direct me there."

"Wait, there will be time for it soon enough." Mouro held up a hand, smiling.  "First, I've brought a surprise with me.  I know how fond you are of good wine and had anticipated that you'd be craving a good cup just about now.  If, by some misfortune, I had not met up with you tonight I had planned to leave it hidden here along with the instructions on the whereabouts of the well.  Please allow me to have the drum fetched for you now."  Mouro called for the guard.

Mouths watered and neck craned to observe the unloading of the special drum from Mouro’s horse and its transport over to Mouro.  The guards looked on with hungry, yearning eyes as they waited with trepidation for their turn to partake of the sure to be a rare wine.  They hoped there would be plenty to go round once Hecun and Mouro had had their fill.

Mouro, after a sly grin, called for a cup as he, at the same time, unsealed the mouth of the small barrel.  Filling it to the brim, he ceremoniously presented it to Hecun who received it with appropriate thanks then, politely smiling, put the cup down and called for another cup to be brought.

Filling this one to the brim, Hecun reciprocated the courtesy to Mouro and proposed, "Let us drink together one more time for old times' sake, before we are joined by the others."

"You are too polite.  All right, brother, we'll drink to your good health and to a long, prosperous life."  Mouro grimaced as he obligingly received the cup.  Subsequently, as custom decreed, each deferred the honors of first toast to the other.

After a few turns, Hecun unable to resist any longer, congenially toasted, "To our lasting friendship," before he raised the cup to his lips and was about to gulp it down all in one go when, Mouro, suddenly assuming a stern visage, in a flash discarded his own cup to the side and violently knocked Hecun's cup from his hands, spilling entire contents of the wine all over the bailiff's face and garments.

 "What disgraceful conduct?  How dare you insult me in this manner?" Mouro stormed.

 "You may be my elder, but I'm still your superior and don't you forget it!"  He shook a threatening finger in Hecun's face.

"And you stay out of this!" Mouro turned to lash out at the sergeant Tubak who, (standing by at close proximity,) aimed to intercede on behalf of his commander.

 Mouro once more reverted his menacing gaze back to the Head bailiff and, with curses on his lips, he demanded, "How dare you be so presumptuous?  How dare you behave in this outrageous manner, just because I'm kind enough to treat you with courtesy?"

Aghast (shocked, appalled), Hecun's face flushed and, even though he did not know what he’d done to offend Mouro, finding his tongue, rushed to apologize, but there was no placating (mollifying) Mouro. 

Placed on the defensive, inwardly Hecun remained most resentful of Mouro's inconsistencies, “What kind of game are you playing at?  How dare you set me up, make me breach etiquette, then make me lose face in front of my men like this?”  

Head Bailiff Hecun just wanted to squash this upstart, ungrateful vermin like a bug, but knew only too well of Mouro's hot temper and obstinate nature; therefore, he wisely opted to suffer passively and with total restraint, this heaved, unending abuse, hoping that Mouro's anger would summarily be spent (pass).

Far from being appeased, Mouro was, in fact, further antagonized. He bellowed furiously, "Why in blazes did I take all this trouble…For the likes of you?  You're beneath my contempt!"  Scoffing, he sprung to his feet and stormed away into the darkness.

Alarmed, Hecun raced after Mouro, still apologizing. Eventually he caught up with him beyond the courtyard and, in a hot pursuit, dashed after him behind a half-collapsed tower. The moment he’d entered the full darkness, however, a hand extended from under the dilapidated flight of stairs and forcefully yanked (pulled) Hecun into the ink black crevice, where he was brought face to face with Mouro.

Hecun's fear soon abated when, in a passive voice, Mouro explained, "You can stop worrying now, brother.  I'm not at all offended.  It was a charade, enacted for their benefit."

"Whose benefit,” Dumbfounded Hecun strained to see more clearly.  "What madness is this?"

Moving out of the shadows, his hand still clasping Hecun's shoulder, Mouro smiled wryly.  "Rest assured, my faculties are intact…  I couldn't go through with it, anyhow.  Still, I had to stop you from drinking it, while casting suspicion, that the drink was spiked."

"The wine was spiked.  What are you talking about?" Hecun asked in exasperation.  "We have no enmity between us, why should you try to poison me?"

"You're not listening," Mouro snapped.  "The wine is perfectly fine; they only think it's laced with poison, and I had to play along with the pretense."

Now it was Hecun's turn to be temperamental, "Your inference to 'they"…  Just who are 'they'?  Why do you talk in riddles, or is this just another one of your underhanded ploys to make me look like the fool?  Are you purposefully trying to muddle me?"

"There are turncoats, you fool!  Renegades planted among your men."

"Are you sure?  How do you know this?  Who are they?  How many are there?  Tell me and I'll have their black hearts torn from their chest."  Hecun clenched his fist repetitively.

"I don't know who they are."  Mouro shrugged and walked away.  "I came to know of their existence myself only quite recently, but I didn't have the means to find out their numbers, but I surmise it must be over thirty.  In any case, it’s up to you to flush (hunt) them out."  Reading confusion and disbelief on Hecun's face, he continued, "You still need convincing, don't you?  Why must you always be so obstinate?  I should be furious with you for not trusting me but, oh, all right, I'll start at the beginning and clarify this situation for you, even though I'm pressed for time.”

"Listen, my coming here tonight was not accidental, nor was my failure to tell you about the functioning well. The purpose was obviously other than the one I expressed in front of the men."  He cleared his throat.  "Actually, I was instructed by Micen.  Yes, Micen Do.  Now, don't interrupt.  I was instructed by him to deliver some poisoned wine to you as part of a diabolical plot to bring about the demise of yourself and your men, saving the spies who were obviously warned not to drink the wine."

"But why would Micen want to kill me?" Hecun injected in surprise.  "I was never out of line with him.  I served him loyally for all those years and did nothing to incur his enmity.  What could he gain from my death?"

"You were only the instrument, the insignificant pawn, please forgive my saying so, who had to be sacrificed in the scheme of things.  It had nothing to do with you personally, or with your performance of your duty. “Mouro explained dismally.  "You think you mattered anything to him at all?  Your only fault was that you let yourself become expendable.  Added to that, your mission was doomed from the start, even if you had survived the ambush and other conceivable dangers on the road as you have done.  Yes, I'm well aware of the traps you've avoided all along the way in order to reach this point.  Never mind how I know."  He held up his hand to stay any questions from Hecun.  "Even the desertions you experienced earlier, I suspect, were the workings of the implanted spies, working within to assure your perilous end.

"It would have been their objective to reduce the numbers of those to be doomed way before now and, no doubt, you played right into their hands.  You would have done better, my friend, to have, just this once, acted contrary to your nature, to have made concessions and exceptions to the rules.  Your flaw, besides being too predictable, is that you're a stickler for rules and regulations.  Don't you see how much of an easy target that makes you, how much more vulnerable?  Never mind, it’s pointless to harp on that now."

"How deep is this conspiracy, anyway?" Hecun grumbled, gritting his teeth.

Mouro, agitated, turned away.  "Listen well and you'll learn the extent of it."

                                                                                ~

(END OF SECTION 32)