THE FISHERMAN'S PRIZE - (PART 6)

 

FISHERMAN’S PRIZE 

 (PART 6)

Days and weeks passed quickly.  Jiense did not know how many, for it had all blended into one.

Then one fine morning, at crack of dawn, Kaimu and Ensa had both been pleasantly surprised by the presence of four stout men, a “supposed friends of their son”, that had suddenly showed up at their doorstep with some oxen carting a heavy load.  According to their claim, their prodigal son, “having heard of Kaimu’s loss, had arranged for this delivery of the small craft”. The relayed message had also stated that “the son would be returning home (soon) in not-too-distant future”.

Though questioned at length, the men had claimed ignorance of all else, and declaring another pressing engagement (agenda, had taken their leave) departed at the earliest opportunity, even declining Ensa’s insistent hospitality.

Needless to say, as precautionary measure, as well, wishing to surprise their son, Jiense had been kept out of these men’s sight.

This gift, a well-constructed boat, more than met Kaimu’s needs and afforded him the unexpected reprieve from certain obligation. Nevertheless, he was of mind to continue with his tribute of fish, partly out of gratitude, for a while longer.

And so, that afternoon, with a generous, joyful heart Kaimu had rushed right over to Zianko’s dwelling to share this bit of good news with him. 

With certain excitement filling his heart, Kaimu now impatiently pounded on his neighbor’s door. When the latter grunting and cursing opened the door and Kaimu came face to face with Zianko, he was quite taken back, startled in fact, (taken back) to see latter’s terrible condition… For Zianko appeared to have been viciously attacked, beaten to a pulp! His disheveled hair, his bloodied, swollen, twisted face and torn garments revealed the severity of his suffered blows, cuts and bruises to every inch of his body.

“What the devil had happened to you?”  Kaimu’s genuine concern however was met with a growl. Zianko’ countenance growing sinister and dark, with snarling curses under his breath, he’d then turning away, violently slammed the door to Kaimu’s face. Kaimu aghast raised his fist to knock, but then on second though (thinking better of it), he’d stayed his hand and abruptly turning about face, left the premises.

Sometime later, swallowing up his deep-seated resentment, Zianko had paid a visit to his old nemesis Kaimu and offered his apologies and some lame (excuse) explanation as to the reason for his unfortunate physical condition. Furthermore, nursing his grievances in silence, he’d listened to Kaimu’s infuriatingly (authentic) genuine concerns and agreed to adopt latter’s sound counsel (advice).

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Since the weather had looked particularly menacing at sunrise, (with red clouds around the sun denoting rain by midday) Kaimu, who was very good at predicting the severity of the weather, had abstained from going out to sea that day.  He knew that uniformly gray sky with dark clouds scudding across it at a lower altitude denoted high winds and stormy weather.  Now if he’d been few years younger in age, he might have taken the risk, but wizened to his physical limitations and furthermore, in anticipation of his son’s return, he’d opted to playing it safe.  The sea acting as the true master showed no mercy to any man and besides, there was still an adequate supply (quantity) of fish from yesterday's catch to last them for at least two more days, so he could afford to take the time off. 

Staying at home, he’d instead initiated chores that needed his particular skill (handling), like mending that high section of the wall beam and patching up that small crack in the corner of the roof that after the severity of last storm now allowed the rain to leak inside.  Expectantly, shortly after sunrise a violent tempest broke churning the sea, lifting the waves well over twenty feet up into the sky, while the strong gale winds threatened to uproot the small cabin and the recently enlarged (and renovated) shed from their foundation.  Fortunately, the new boat had already been painstakingly secured in a protective grove after the last use and so warranted no concern. When eventually the torrential rains abated in the late afternoon and the winds got tapered down to the calmer state: this could lull the unseasoned few, into state of assurance. But the locals knew through past experiences the capricious weather’s inconsistent quirks, the erratic and the all too prevalent volatile atmospheric shifts at the coast here- even in summer! Hence, over the years they, like Kaimu, through caution fashioned their life’s schedule to suit the volatility of the weather.

By late afternoon, having completed all the set tasks, Kaimu for a spell sat in idleness, drumming his fingers on the table.  But feeling edgy and cooped up, he suddenly sprang to his feet and went outside to have a good look.  His intent was to check on the weather firsthand and, if it did not look too bad, then mosey on to his friend Zianko's place to land him a hand or perhaps, enjoy a few rounds of drinks with the latter.  Zianko had recently returned from another lucrative business venture (deal) and so had an ample supply of drinks at his house. Obviously stranded at home like him, the latter would welcome his company.  One possible snag…! But hopefully he would reach Zianko before the latter drank him-self into a stupor!

Kaimu’s face all this while had been caressed by the refreshing, soft rain that had tapered to light drizzle, nevertheless, the blanket of a low-lying fog still impeded (impaired) visibility.

Detecting a vague, indistinct movement at some distance just then, he shielded his eyes with his hand and turned his thoughtful gaze towards it.

  What's this?  There, on the gravel road, a mounted traveler, rather, travelers were making their laborious advance towards his direction.

Fancy that, he thought to himself with delectation (delight), it's probably Zianko, coming to meet me with the same intent. 

“But who's that with him?”  He questioned the air.

His curiosity aroused; he strained his eyes to get a clearer focus.  It's two people, all right… There was no mistaking it.  The horse was laden with baggage, and what's more, the mounted one looked to be a woman. The other, had summarily dismounted and was now leading the horse by the bridle.

 As their steady advance closed the distance, Kaimu became more able to discern that the one leading the horse was a sturdy, fair haired young man, therefore not Zianko. Furthermore, the well-dressed young man with knee-high leather boots was trudging through the muddy gravel with seemingly unaccustomed, scornful steps (in extreme difficulty). He looked almost comical, if not pitiable, as he negotiated each step and struggled to maintain his balance on the rough, slippery, terrain.

 Putting aside his curiosity, Kaimu inwardly laughed at their stupidity for undertaking the journey without protection (bodyguard) and on such a foul day.  They’re most fortunate not have encountered any poisonous reptiles, predatory beasts or murderous highwayman!  Kaimu mused, as he rubbed his strained eyes to gain far sharper focus. 

“Damn this fog!” He cursed the air with an impatient groan; his gaze still affixed on the travelling pair.

Now with them at closer proximity, in that split instance (in a flash), he identified the young man.

“Yoansu!”

It sent chills then thrills up his spine! In an excited voice he called out to his wife, then, without waiting for her response he rushed forward with extended arms, his feet gliding (skating) swiftly with sure, steady steps over the precarious, slimy, muddy surface, towards the approaching duo. (…His advance negotiated with ease because of appropriate footwear) 

Yoansu also hastened his steps to close (limit) the gap between them.   Coming within a few feet of each other, they both abruptly halted (dead on their tracks) with an inexplicable feeling gripping both their hearts.  The awkward moment was soon bridged however when the sturdy, young man let go of the bridle of the horse gave a deep, respectful bow and then rushed to warmly embrace his father.  The tears that cascaded down their cheeks were soon intermingled with the raindrops.  Yoansu’s powerful, taut embrace meanwhile had been so intense that it had nearly crushed Kaimu’s ribcage.  Realizing his folly, that he was constricting Kaimu's breathing, the young man let go of him instantly and retreated a few steps to take a good long sentimental look at the old man. 

His father had aged since he’d last seen him. Absently he shook his head.

How the harsh elements had taken their toll on the stubborn old fool. He could have lived in the lap of luxury, like a king, if only….

“Forgive me, father, for having stayed away so long.” With a caring tone however, he outwardly ejected (was instead, heard from his lips).

Kaimu was too choked up with remorse (emotion) to speak; a nod of his head was all he could manage. It should have been him who uttered those words of apology, not his son! Surely, mercifully, in his longing for his parents, Yoansu had forgotten the reason that had driven him away.

In their happy reunion they had totally forgotten the woman mounted on the horse.  Only when Kaimu's eyes fell on her, did his son's attention revert to her.  Rushing over at once, he helped her dismount the horse.  Bringing her forward he then introduced her to him, properly, as Tufan Wugan and asked her to pay her respects and solicitations to her new father-in-law. 

Accustomed to life of luxury and leisure, she’d inwardly resented being dragged all this way to this God-forsaken place; furthermore, being forced to ride the last part of difficult journey on horseback without plush carriage and proper escort, in order to keep up with this farce. All this was for him- this uncouth old man! In disbelief, she askance looked at her husband. Are you kidding me? This shabbily dressed, pathetic looking fisherman is your father?

But his stern, icy glance sent cold shivers up her spine, and she lowered her head; her heart, her body now quaking to the marrow. She’d once witnessed with her own eyes what he was capable of (an unforgettable horror that still haunted her dreams).

Masking her discomfort and the airs of superiority, she now readily complied with her husband's wishes and gave her respectful greetings, purposely however, omitting a deep bow. Kaimu hiding his displeasure embraced her as his new daughter-in-law.  When his son, unable to contain his happy news, broke it to him that she was also with child, Kaimu's happiness became boundless and drove instantly all thought of Jiense’s existence from his mind.

Just then the rain had picked up in intensity, forcing them to cut short the felicitations; hence they hastened their advance towards the house. 

Ensa, in response to her husband's call had come out, but stood under the eaves of the house and strained her eyes to see whom her husband was rushing to meet.  Her first thought had been that “here was a stranded traveler in need of help, and that her husband had gone to lend them a hand”.  Being apprehensive of strangers, she’d remained hesitant to go after him.  But when she’d identified (recognized) the supposed newcomer, her heart had skipped a beat and she too, rushed with open arms towards them. 

The two opposing sides came to meet only a few yards from the house.  The son, deserting his wife and father, now rushed into his mother's embrace. In that moment of absolute bliss, abandoning the traditional greeting of a respectful bow, he simply hoisted her into the air (as he was so much taller than she was) and together they twirled in a joyful circle.

Back inside the house, Jiense, consumed in her work (barely able to manage a new daunting task), had remained quite oblivious to the happy family reunion outside. 

Upon entry, the son's eyes immediately (caught) fell on the timid, attractive girl in the far corner, which had just then turned to face him with a start.

 He’d received a brief report of her existence. But the report had made no mention of her striking good looks!

Taken by her apparent grace and elegant beauty, Yoansu had stayed awkwardly rooted to the spot burrowing his immodestly hot, lustful gaze on this belle.

This indiscretion made Jiense blush, and she lowered her head in embarrassment. 

Naturally, she had been made aware of the existence of their second son without being told, of course, of the nuptial intent.  Noting at first glance the striking resemblance (the likeness) which the son bore to Ensa, she’d hence restrained from (the instinct to run away) running away; instead, patiently lingered at the spot, with her respectful pose, for both Kaimu and Ensa to come in and to initiate the formal introductions.  Unfortunately for Jiense, she had to endure a discomfortingly long, awkward period; for the old couple who’d soon after solicitously ushered in son’s young wife, nevertheless, had been far too caught up in all the excitement of the moment to give any serious consideration to Jiense.

Better to make a polite retreat… But where, what corner can she hide in?

Already smitten by her, Yoansu found the lovely girl’s apparent quandary and unease even more endearing. He was about to take the initiative and hasten to the rescue of “this enchanting damsel in distress”, when his wife’s superior airs, drew his attention away.

Just who does she think she is? He inwardly fumed, quite incensed.

Now that he’d seen the “Fairy Maiden” of his dreams, the beauty he’d married to had dulled (paled) in brilliance. He saw Tufan for what she was, an arrogant, conceited, self-serving opportunist.

If only she wasn’t the favorite niece of Ckarban!

But his ire (anger) simply melted away when with his side-glance he caught anew, the gentle, sweet girl’s attempt at withdrawal -not wishing to intrude on this intimate family moment.

 Oh no, you won’t!  At once rushing forth, in a bold move Yoansu spread his arms to block the girl’s path and then half turning to face his father; with his questioning gaze he demanded an answer as to her identity (or/ he inquired after her identity). 

The absence of ready response had rather intrigued Yoansu. His interest mounted (peaked) seeing particularly the way his parents, “as if lost for words”, in silence, had exchanged curious looks. He was about to persist with his inquiry, when Kaimu seeing no way out of it, came forward just then and succinctly introduced Jiense, as a distant relative of the family.

Formal introductions hastily dispensed, Yoansu and his wife along with the baggage were then quickly whisked away to their room. But no sooner did Yoansu lay the burdensome luggage down, using some plausible excuse, (under some pretext,) he left his wife there, and emerged from (exited) the room.

Gently clasping (gripping) his father’s forearm, he pulled Kaimu aside and in a hushed voice, discreetly asked him. “No offense father, but I know we have no living relatives… Please tell me, who is she really? Where did she come from?”

Kaimu for a spell had again hesitated with his response, as he’d mused: I mustn’t fill the boy’s head with wild fantasies. For Kaimu had to be blind not to notice the son’s keen interest in Jiense.

So, in dismissal, he simply shook his head and said: “It's a long story son, which I promise to tell you of it later.  First you must get out of those wet clothes, before you catch your death from cold.”  With that, he faced Yoansu squarely, grasped both of his shoulders and half-turning him, and nudged Yoansu towards his old room. 

Yoansu knew it was useless to argue the point with his father, so feigning filial compliance; he nodded and meekly went back inside.

What greeted his eyes then, however, both annoyed and infuriated him. His wife seated at the edge of the bed, acting like a precious jewel, looked so dejected and forlorn.  Subsequently, puckering (pursing) her lips and engaging her feminine charm, coyly she ejected her displeasure. “Dear husband, you can’t be serious about me staying here. Why, in my delicate condition….” She paused, as she gently caressed her stomach for the emphasis. “I mean, these impoverished, indigent surroundings could, perish forbid, force me to abort,” then she blatantly lied, “your precious seed. Tell me we’re to stay, but only briefly? For your sake, I can do that much, I can put up a brave front. Say, maybe for a week?”

Seething in ire, Yoansu chewed (bit) the corner of his lower lip. Inwardly he was wondering whatever possessed him to tie the knot with this shallow, pretentious harlot!

Seeing her placating words had no desired effect, she frowned and this time, in a contemptuous tone, threatened. “Besides, I don’t think my uncle, your boss would approve of the horrid, destitute conditions you’re proposing to impose on me. Coming from such a humble background, this may be fine with you, but not me.  One word of complaint from me and you’ll be…” She was about to add “history.” But observing the dark, sinister cloud that had just then descended over his face, the word abruptly froze on her lips and intense fear gripped her heart.

Why was she flirting with death?

His prolonged silence with that icy glare again sent shivers down her spine.

Ups, she’d pushed him too far; she’d provoked his terrible temper. If something were to happen, away from her kin- folk, who would come to her aid? Besides, when she’d confessed her condition to Ckarban, the actual father of her baby, that vile bastard’s response had been to get rid of her in this way. Either that or be discretely sold into bondage, or face sudden, accidental death! She took the best recourse given to her and for a while (time), she’d experienced true happiness.

But once more and she could not rightly say when exactly, things had soured. Now, especially in this God-forsaken place, without (viable) an alternate place of refuge and with no one to turn to… Eiyye! She with difficulty stifled a hysterical cry, for the reality of her situation had just then struck her like a ton of bricks. Now for the first time in her life, she felt utterly vulnerable! Nevertheless, she was quick to get hold of her senses (faculties). As it were, her confidence had wavered only for a spell. Fortunately, she’d been well endowed with personal resources and she had a shrewd mind and fighting spirit. In time she’ll extract herself from this seemingly binding commitment and also, the impending disaster.

With sham tears, she hence rushed to remedy her prior mistake and using placating words, offered her humble, sincere apologies to her supposed, beloved husband.

But her honeyed words (helped only to antagonize) antagonized him more and further mounted his anger.  He violently pushed her aside and with clenched fists he turned and briskly walked away. His accelerated (quickened) steps came to an abrupt halt just before the door; however, he grimaced, then dismally he shook his head. The desire to kill her had been so strong that it had scared him. He’d almost wrung that scrawny neck of hers, snapping it like a twig and ending her pathetic, wretched life on the spot- And to Hell with Ckarban’s wishes! His days were numbered anyhow!

  Rooted to the spot, Yoansu menacing demeanor looked as if he was in readiness to pounce on someone or on something. But on second thought, in consideration of Ensa, he forced constraint on his hot temper. He exhaled deeply to relieve all that pent up tension in his body, then going over, he sullenly sat in the only chair at the far corner of the room. He’d just come home after such a long absence. It would not do, no, not if he were to now lose his temper and bring discord to the family!

His wife’s stifled sobs however, once more filled his heart with contempt and again brought him to the brink of explosion.

“It was a big mistake, bringing you here!” Gritting his teeth, he suddenly bolted from his seat.

She was in total agreement with him on that. And was about to concur (say so) outloud; but when she met his icy glare, she understood all at once that his words had carried an entirely different meaning than hers. Being rather superficial and narcissistic, she could not phantom the reason for this total change in him.

Why this? What had rendered him so immune to her charms?  She’d, hence, in absence of apt counter response, racked (tormented) her brain to discover that allusive cause (reason) and the remedy.  As she did this, she’d simply stared back at him with a dumfounded expression on her face.

“Bah, you’re insufferable!” He threw his arms up in the air in total exasperation and again gave his back to her (turned his back on her). 

Presently he’d as well, become aware of his sticky, constricting wet clothes. Shaking his head, he retrieved some dry ones and quickly changed into them.

As he dressed, seeing him in the flesh, she was reminded now of the intense passion, of the great physical attraction, the almost supernatural magnet (draw) and fascination he held for her (that they shared). She had mistaken this desire, this great infatuation, and unfortunately still did, for “love”. He was after all in excellent physical form and quite handsome in his looks; so, in spite of all that had passed between them these last few days, she still found him highly desirable and yearned for his tender touch.

Unfortunately, he paid no heed to her coquettish antics, resenting now all her ludicrous, coy gestures.  From that moment on which she’d held his parents, his childhood home in contempt, he’d grown cold in his affections towards her. Considering (in light of) that other precious gem, Jiense, he now found he could not even stand the very sight of Tufan.  Even her frivolous, perfumed attire offended him and begun suffocating (constraining) his breath (lungs). Shaking his head he quickly opened the door, wanting to escape to the outside. He came face to face with Ensa, carrying a tray laden with tidbits and tea for their use.

“Thank you, son,” After affectionately acknowledging his help, she marched right passed him and placed the tray on the night table.  She urged the new daughter-in-law, who looked fatigued and frail, to partake some; then turning to her son, who’d lingered at the door, she told him to do the same, for there would be plenty of time for them to talk later. Yoansu smiled and nodding took in a tolerant, persevering breath.

After Ensa’s polite retreat, estranged husband and wife sat apart in contemplative silence with lowered heads, for a very painful long period. Neither of them wanted or touched a single morsel or a drop.

When he deemed an appropriate time had passed, Yoansu emerged from the room.

 

(END OF SECTION 6)

 

(STAY TUNED FOR FISHERMAN'S PRIZE NEXT POST: SECTION 7)