LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC- THE CAPITAL CHANNING - SECTION 6

LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE CAPITAL CHANNING - SECTION 6

 It was announced throughout the Capital the next morning that the curfew that had been imposed on the citizens for several days had been finally lifted.  This unexpected news discernibly placed everyone in a good mood. 

01- CHANNING

Resigned as Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) was to be receiving the expected callers, nothing could have prepared him for the greatest influx (incursion) of guests, consequently, the public relations challenge/nightmare that was thrust upon him. He was suddenly cast amid the demanding posh (high-born) society’s elite with their unprecedented rigid rules and regulations, frivolous propriety (decorum) and antiquated (obsolete, archaic) protocols (etiquette), compelling him to juggle (manage) these with his academic onuses (obligations, responsibilities), all of it within the tiresome, whirlwind dance of aristocratic revelry. 

Zakhertan Yozdek had abolished the examination system around the time of the first of the intellectual purges.  Nepotism aside, for those seeking a new or better post in the government yet lacking in military prowess, social contacts have become an all-important, crucial (key, vital) source.  Their prospects were now perpetually reliant (dependent) on the personal recommendations from those officials who had already acquired power and distinction and were willing to tie their own futures to that of the candidates whom they recommended.

Deeming the esteemed scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald’s arrival as a good presage (omen, potent), the elite of Channing in their ostentatious carriages and litters, had descended in droves (multitudes) upon Zaur Stugr 's residence, all bearing rich and lavish gifts for the host and his guest, all same time hoping to satiate their curiosity about this promising, once elusive scholar.

As large as Minister of Ceremony Zaur Stugr’s residence was, its path was worn thin by this onslaught of sycophants.  Finally, Minister Zaur sought out the Prime Minister for his permission, consulted with Fradel Rurik Korvald then, taking matters into his own hands, graciously postponed all but the most important appointments until after Fradel Rurik Korvald’s audience with the Sovereign.

As this was most agreeable to many of the prudent nobility, (those wanting to see first, how the scholar would rank in favor with His Royal Highness Zakhertan Yozdek), the request was adopted without any qualm.

02-

Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) thus was spared from any more torment, from those slick-toured officials and nobles, who with their smiling faces and black hearts hid their ulterior motives poorly behind the facade of congeniality.

 In fact, every loaded word they sputtered, every covert gesture they made, every seemingly innocent remark with which they hoped to embroil scholars in their dark intrigues had taken their toll and had ground down Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac’s) spirit despite his outward show of vigor (enthusiasm) and resilience.

This welcome respite had come none too soon, for it was followed the next morning at daybreak by an invitation from the Prime Minister requesting Fradel Rurik Korvald’s illustrious presence at an exclusive, nevertheless, an elaborate party to be given in his honor in nine days’ time.

                                                                             ~

 

 In the subsequent days, Minister of Ceremony Zaur Stugr proved to be a most attentive, congenial host, anticipating, and fulfilling with uncanny precision, his guest's every perceived desire and whim.

 Swayed somewhat by this solicitude, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) found himself amending some of his first impressions of the junior Minister.  Only seven years Nevetsecnuac's senior, Zaur Stugr seemed overall to be a mild mannered, articulate and most obliging person.  Looking much younger than his age, fair in complexion, he sported only a thin mustache, and tapered beard.  Tall, thin, and strikingly handsome, with striking blue eyes, he did not need the extra adornments his peers affected to accentuate his winning features.  His lush, over the shoulder straight, raven (jet black) hair was always glistening clean and only sometimes was bound behind his neck by a simple leather band.  In contrast to his striking physique, however, he was moderate in his manners and speech and bore none of the pretentious airs associated with his office.  On numerous occasions Nevetsecnuac (Fradel Rurik Korvald) observed that this amiable persona allowed Zaur to place whomever he interacted with, regardless of their position, wealth, or power, at their ease.  Without them being aware of it, he was able to manipulate them into opening and laying bare even the most secretive thoughts that lay in the deep recesses of their hearts then sent them away contented with even more confidence and trust in this remarkable Junior Minister.

03- ZAUR STUGR   JP 20

When Zaur Stugr turned this charm on Fradel Rurik Korvald, it took most of Nevetsecnuac's discernment and perception to avoid being swept away by the tide of affable good will that Zaur Stugr bountifully projected.  Despite his reserve, Nevetsecnuac had gradually grown quite fond of the Junior Minister and his winning ways.  Yearning for the close bonds of companionship, Zaur Stugr seemed to be the most likely candidate on which to lay his trust and friendship, yet Nevetsecnuac held back, restrained by the stronger sensibility that had guided him ever since he had first encountered Zunrogo and the people from the Capital.

 Even though there was a complete absence of proof, there was this anomalous, nagging feeling that his charming host Zaur was leading a double life, one entirely different in character from the persona he projected every day.  This sense of duality insisted on caution, if not slight distrust, particularly when dealing with affable Minister Zaur Stugr.

 At any rate after all Nevetsecnuac had seen, heard, and lived through during these past months, the innocence and trust that had once been second nature to him had been supplanted, lost forever.  At present Nevetsecnuac's guard was perpetually up, leaving no room for the spark of familiarity or friendship to develop.

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) was bit sad that, he frequently (habitually) now, felt prematurely aged (rather old) and hardened to the core.

As happened, this dilemma eventually resolved itself when his pessimistic apprehension was given further credibility by the successive events; however, as nothing much out of the ordinary or spectacular happened, this will not warrant any elaboration.

                                                                               ~

 On the seventh day Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) had spent the better part of the afternoon sightseeing few historic sites that the Capital Channing was famed for then afterward, both host and guest had enjoyed a sumptuous feast at the house of one of Zaur Stugr’s colleagues.

On their return to the Junior Minister's residence both felt reluctant to retire for the night and forgo the enjoyment of full moon; despite the lateness of the hour hence, they mutually decided to resume their conversation where they had left it in the Quiet Waters Pavilion, by the eastern end of the artificial (man-made) lake, that also had alongside it, a delightful, swimming pool where if they wished they could take a cool dip in private. 

04

The pleasant company, delightful warm breeze buffeting their sleeves, caressing their faces, and the fullness of the moon casting brilliant (rippled) reflection on the water all, had put Zaur in such a good mood that he had, without reservation, downed several more cups of wine, far exceeding his tolerance level.

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), on the contrary, careful managing his intake of drink had of course emptied his cup discreetly, whenever he could, onto the ground. During the night as they partook (participated) in consuming still more variety of choice, vintage vines, Nevetsecnuac seizing an apt opportunity, subtly steered the conversation around to the subject of Kontu in the hope of extracting from the Minister Zaur Stugr, more indebt version and true accounts (pertaining to) concerning Sovereign Murong Di.

Zaur’s inhibitions by then having gradually eased (melted away) he, with his virtuoso narration, his gifted elaborations, and an uncanny knowledge of the smallest details, so competently (dazzlingly) painted such vivid pictures for Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) that, it made him feel as though he personally was in Kontu, hearing and experiencing it all firsthand. And so, that night listening to Zaur Stugr’s account, Nevetsecnuac came to learn all about (even filling in the blanks, the missing facts, when Nevetsecnuac had first learned about Kontu from Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon back at the mountain cabin,) how Hedenko had artfully risen in prominence and power while still purportedly a vassal, commanding the army of Sovereign Murong Di of Kontu. 

Nevetsecnuac could well understand Minister Zaur Stugr’s fascination of these historical facts for the whole thing unfolded more like a military textbook with, do and don’ts.

Despite the growing threat from Hedenko, King Murong Di had unwisely given precedence to the prevailing danger from the state of Icone instead.

 In his royal arrogance he had foolishly turned a deaf ear to the counsel of his able ministers that Hedenko should be summoned to court immediately, by force, if necessary, to give good and true account of his rebellious activities.  Unfortunately, by the time the King had awakened to the true danger that existed to his rule, internal strife, and corruption within his court itself had curtailed his ability to deal with Hedenko at all and had sealed his fate once and for all.  When his only other recourse, assassination, proved ineffective within the tight military control of Lord Deng Hedenko's lands, King Murong Di resorted to a ruse.  Extending his edict of general amnesty to include Hedenko, he let it be known that it was his Royal wish that they end the strained relationship between them.

 At the same time Sovereign Murong Di made the most generous proposal of marriage between Princess Teuquob and the Lord, knowing that Hedenko would not be able to resist the temptation to acquire the most enchanting beauty in the entire Kingdom.

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) had previously speculated that the Sovereign Murong Di's offer had been solely for the purpose of luring Lord Hedenko to the Royal Court to procure the rebel's demise.  Zaur Stugr had reaffirmed this proposition when he outlined the King's plans to have Hedenko apprehended, charged with treason, and promptly executed once he left the safety of his fortified lair to fetch his bride and attend the matrimonial festivities.

"It’s an ingenious, but nevertheless effective stratagem." Zaur Stugr concurred in good humor.

"Unaware of the sinister plan lurking in the mind of the Monarch Murong Di, the Prime Minister at that time, Neru, had for some time attempted in vain to deter the King from such a move.  He recalled to his Sovereign, Hedenko's ruthless exploits, his lack of filial piety and his brutality towards women.  He had even grimly foretold, at the risk of incurring royal disfavor, that the Lord's ambition would not be satiated that easily and that Hedenko would not rest until he had seized total power and usurped the throne for himself.  This marriage would only whet (sharpen, hone) his appetite and lead to much graver consequences.”

Monarch Murong Di, grimacing coldly, had once more not heeded the sound advice and furthermore, had concealed his true aim for fear of spies in court. 

“That, in itself, his inability to trust anyone, was a prime cause of the King's subsequent downfall."  Zaur Stugr nodded thoughtfully.

05- HEDENKO 9JP

“Hedenko, his mind equally treacherous, had accepted this proposal without reserve not so much because of the tempting bait, but because it helped him advance his own sinister plan.  The Lord's aim paralleled Sovereign Murong Di's, it seemed.  To further disarm the Monarch, he even swore to surrender all his forces and land holdings to the King the moment he was made his son-in-law, giving substance to the rumors that he had planted, that Hedenko wanted most of all to prove his loyalty to Murong and assume his former position as the King's most loyal vassal.   He set his supporters to work to reinforce this pretense in the ear of the Monarch Murong Di with similar reports supposedly from various sources.”

"This marriage proposal", Deng Hedenko had ostensibly, duly professed upon receipt, "had been a great honor and had overwhelmed him."

“Touched by the wisdom, the insight and benevolence of the Sovereign, more specifically Murong's show of good faith, Hedenko had supposedly paced up and down “in a shrine before the Gods of his ancestors and sworn an oath of allegiance to live up to his Highness' expectations.  He'd vowed also to first disprove then permanently silence the slanderers of his good name.”

“Now,” Zaur chuckled. “This covert warning sent shock waves of fear among the opposition. (In the many days that ensued) Subsequently, many had tried to amend their mistakes, others had gone hiding and still others had taken flight under various pretexts, never to be heard from again.  Meanwhile, more hateful than ever of Monarch Murong, Hedenko had initiated his long-term plans and immediately began implementing his designs on the throne.  After all, he had just been handed a perfect opportunity on a silver platter.”

“Having received this go-ahead signal, his ardent supporters, courtiers, and military generals alike, underhandedly but aggressively began their campaign of support in the Capital, the last seat of power for Murong, attempting to drum up favorable support for Hedenko and paving the way for a total capitulation, or at least for an assured success with the least resistance from those unyielding loyalist Lords too powerful as yet to be quickly extinguished. “

“The plan was for Hedenko to make his entry into the Capital with his elite force of assassins disguised as servants bringing along the bride price, this in addition to the small number of guards accompanying him.  During the festivities Hedenko would personally seize Murong and assassinate him on the spot.  The Lord already had a dagger concealed in the hall where the ceremony was to take place, planted by one of his spies at Court.  After his consolidation of power throughout the land he would pass judgment on the only surviving member of the Royal Family, Princess Teuquob.  If she proved worthy of further attention, then she would be made his new wife.  Since, however, Hedenko believed in a clean sweep and no mercy, a policy he had adopted after every victory, it was clear that, following the birth of a son or two, depending on his whim, and then she would be made to forfeit her life as well.”

"But things took on a bizarre, rather unexpected turn." Zaur Stugr exhaled deeply with heightened zeal, "The Princess who was to be wed took flight just two weeks before all this was to happen and unfortunately perished in a storm at sea.  Of course, another (a distant royal cousin of marriable age) was quickly offered in her stead.  Hedenko, appearing most agreeable, went through with this wedding and, naturally, with his planned usurpation of the throne.  And at present, he has been the omnipotent ruler of Kontu for more than a decade."  Falling silent, Zaur reached to fill his cup.

06-NEVETSECNUAC  JP 19

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) looked up thoughtfully for the first time and was about to inquire how Zaur Stugr was so exceptionally well informed about the internal politics of the Kontu Royal Court, when Zaur, surmising his question, held up his hand, then with some modesty exclaimed. "Perhaps I have neglected to inform you that I am an ardent student of political history.  Since childhood I have been intrigued by the process of how Kingdoms rose and fell.  In fact, I think it’s a curiosity I've inherited."  He threw Nevetsecnuac a whimsical smile.

“He's withholding something pertinent.”  Nevetsecnuac studied Zie with an impassive silence.

"I regret that I have not had the opportunity to show you my extensive library on this subject but, if you like, we could visit it tomorrow.  It is mainly taken up with documents bearing historical accounts, original writs or copied replicas painstakingly compiled since the time of my grandfather.  I cannot take the credit for my own small contributions."  He pensively drank few more sips of wine.  "It escaped the destruction of the purges simply because the papers are totally unrelated to the history of Wenjenkun.”

“Those accounts you will not find it here or anywhere for that matter, unless you want to view the government archives which house the official, Imperial- sanctioned versions."  There was a hint of disdain in Zaur’s tone as he mumbled this last sentence as he pursed his lips and looked over the pond.

 

Nevetsecnuac discounted this pseudo frank disclaimer which he believed it to be, not entirely the truth and, he deliberately ignored the tiny hint of rebellious discontent in Zaur ‘tone, not wishing to take the bait.  What’s more, he strongly suspected this very resourceful Minister to be in possession of some forbidden material, well-hidden for posterity, if not here, then somewhere within the Minister’s reach.

Fradel’s lack of reaction, meanwhile, had disappointed Zaur Stugr.  Never had he failed in gaining a valuable insight or drawing out pertinent information from the intended recipient (addressee), by his seemingly casual remarks (word) or contacts; yet after seven days Fradel Rurik Korvald was still an absolute mystery to him; the scholar's intrinsic ideas had eluded all scrutiny, remaining as elusive as ever. He could only glean some abstract notions of what Fradel thought and, all Zaur had instead, was a moderate number of unusable impressions. 

Even now Zaur Stugr was not certain whether Fradel was genuinely interested in the history of Kontu or had been listening out of mere politeness. He threw a sidelong glance at his guest.  “How can I reach you?  How can I penetrate that invisible wall you've encased yourself in and tap those inner realms of your thoughts?” He mused sardonically.  “You're unlike anyone I've met, and you are certainly not like any other scholar.  There's no trace of the arrogance and frivolity of the usual unscrupulous literati about you.  Your brilliant mind is the only thing about you that I can be certain of.”

 

                                                                                             ~

 

Wiping the frown from his thoughts before it manifested (became apparent) on his face, Zaur Stugr reached for some morsels and, as he ate in thoughtful silence, he sized up Fradel Rurik Korvald from the corner of his eye.  Suddenly, unconsciously he chuckled.  “Surely, even you are not immune to lust.  No man is.  I simply haven't found the right lure (bait) to entice you with. Hmm, perhaps someone, like the fabled Princess Teuquob, if only she was still alive.”

 Meeting Nevetsecnuac's questioning gaze, he spoke in a soft, almost longing (pining) voice, "As I understand it, and this has been thoroughly verified by all, Princess Teuquob was a rare beauty."  He hesitated.

“Hmm… It would not do to reveal too much, the scope of his influence with the foreign spies and the local underground, no matter how harmless this Fradel Rurik Korvald seemed.”

“My wife is right; of late, I've been indulging in spirits far too much.” He silently admonished himself. 

“I can't afford this failing to get the better of me, not with what's at stake.”  He curtailed his speech and determined to take it easy on the wine yet, for a brief spell his disobedient mind had wandered and, he remembered how he had secretly commissioned his spies in Kontu to secure a portrait of the Princess Teuquob, filled with details taken from all the accounts of those who had known her and still lived.

It had taken great lengths to obtain it, just to satisfy his curiosity.  Expectedly, he had been delighted by the outcome. 

“As a matter of fact,” he reflected,” that had been my only eccentric act of late, until this one.”  

The predictability of his daily routine as a Minister of Ceremony had suffocated him somewhat so he had rushed to the chance to play host to the illustrious Fradel Rurik Korvald when the Prime Minister had brought up the subject of the scholar's lodging.

"I've been told this, of course, through the flattering descriptions of Princess Teuquob in the letters of the time." he quickly corrected himself.

"They describe Princess Teuquob as legendary in her beauty, with none, neither in Kontu nor in Wenjenkun able to equal her in charm or grace.  She would have been a worthy consort for any man, even our Emperor Zakhertan Yozdek."

 Listening to his own intonations, Zaur knew that he had betrayed that desire that had lain in his heart ever since he had viewed that portrait.  The beauties of Channing had paled horribly in comparison, and he had felt cheated somewhat.  After mumbling apologies at his indiscretion, he offered a lame excuse for it all and steered the topic of the conversation onto safer, more superficial concerns.  Subsequently he had played the fool, the antagonist, the diffident boor, the sincere friend, the provocative sophist and once more the wanton womanizer yet; Fradel Rurik Korvald had not taken any of the bait and had remained obstinately as elusive as ever.  He would have to try yet another (peculiar means) atypical angle to draw out Fradel Rurik Korvald.

Meanwhile, Nevetsecnuac had suppressed with remarkable iron will, his intense displeasure and extreme annoyance, rather rage at Zaur's tiresome deceits, his obvious, long-term infatuation and lust for Teuquob, his beloved wife.

07-LOVE AND KISSESS (15)_edited

 Nevetsecnuac fighting the urge to lash out at Zaur, distractedly at this point, had bent to retrieve a happily chirping cicada by his feet; just then however, quite unexpectedly the long-forgotten key that was kept in the inner pocket of this specific garment, fell to on the terrazzo (tiled flooring) with a loud thud.  Its same time had let off an unusual, curious glint as it caught the juxtaposed reflections of the brilliant moonlight and soft lamplight on its surface. 

Nevetsecnuac abandoned the cicada and quickly reached instead to retrieve the key, as the same time noted with curiosity, from the corner of his eye, Zaur’s fleeting reaction of shock and horror that was quickly replaced by an unemotional mask.

 

“He knows something”

 

 

(END OF SECTION 6)

                                                                                        ~

LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITAL – SECTION 31

Had Disaidun Agripe known what really was at stake, how many conditions were to be added to the end of his statement, she would have (fled as if her life depended on it) run and kept on running.  Imagining only the best, however, she again thanked him profusely and promised, "Oh, you'll see how appreciative I can be."

01-DISAIDUN AGRIPE JP 23

Then she remembered the other condition and asked. "What was the second thing you wished me to do?"

"Oh, nothing particularly hard.” he smiled.  "You know the situation we face."

 He waited to hear her answer, then gave an entirely different account as to the reasons behind the anticipated, armed assault.

There were just two grains of truth in this fiction (story) he fed her: one, the foe in the pursuing vessel was fast gaining on them and two, the expected engagement would be at noon of the following day as soon as the fog had lifted.

 "Your part in all of this will be is, to guard the entrance to the cabins on the lower decks, when the assault starts.  You will be, of course, positioned behind a strong, impenetrable barricade and though it is highly doubtful that anyone could break through, in the likelihood that they do, it will be your responsibility to intercept (block) them."

"It is then my task to protect the Scholar Norek," she strove to impress Zunrogo but was met with a blank stare.

Disaidun Agripe obviously had no inkling of the scholar's importance or his identity.  "Why do you ask?"  He was curious to find out how she arrived at her notion.

Her answer was expectedly, tritely dull.  "Oh, I’d just overheard Captain Doku whispering something about him to another shipmate.  The rest of their conversation, beyond his name, was incomprehensible, I’m afraid.  I have also noticed how vigilant you and that big fellow Tizan are in guarding him.  I don't wish to pry (meddle), but is Norek's life in danger from these pursuers?"  She still pushed, even though she knew better.

 

"Let’s just say that his work is highly controversial and offensive to some crude individuals, whose ill-breeding overhaul (outstrip) their aesthetic sense." Zunrogo brushed her question away, with a wave of his hand.

Disaidun Agripe did not buy any of this but wisely desisted pursuing the matter. “There will be ample time in future, to understand his reasons for this deception.” She falsely believed.

"Of course, you must be armed.  Are you adept (capable) in handling swords, and also, the crossbow?  Perhaps you may prefer a machete or an axe at close quarters."

"I have been trained in all of them." she boasted.  "I will use whatever you think is best."

"I think the crossbow will be more ideal in stopping those, capable enough to breach the barricade.  You can also utilize a knife, if it’s warranted, in such close quarters."

"And what of the other entrance?" she asked, trying to impress him.

When Zunrogo looked at her sharply she beamed, sure she had one up on him, "The secret passage, behind the bookcase, in Captain's cabin?"

But Zunrogo robbed her of any further satisfaction when he laughed knowingly and nodded, "You are a resourceful girl, aren't you?"

 Meeting his stern gaze, she abashed, cast her eyes down. As Disaidun Agripe indulged herself in the luxury of self-reproach, incensed Zunrogo, made a mental note to have Tizan take care of that crucial detail that had escaped them both.

"You need not worry about that secret passage.  It has long been secured well and proper."  He lied, after his prolonged scrutiny of her.

Her cheeks had flushed crimson (cherry red) under his burning stare but, even though all her senses were alerting her, she chose to believe otherwise.

 

Zunrogo could now afford to be magnanimous.

"Good.", he finally broke his silence. His eyes were unmistakably soft and affectionate, at odds with his cold, forced smile. 

"Then I would say for now, our business is concluded."  Nevertheless, he remained reluctant to dismiss her outright.

His mixed signals made her shift uneasily into her seat.  Disaidun did not wish to go either; furthermore, she hoped that he would ask her to stay.  Her worst fear was that he would reject her.

She watched him rising to his feet, and after fetching the jug on the night table, (which was set aside for him to indulge in just before sleep,) breaking the seal then pouring himself a cupful. It gladdened her heart, when he took the trouble to pour on for her as well, and then quietly (in silence) placed one of the cups on the table in front of her.

His burrowing (investigating) eyes were fixed on her, as they drank their alcoholic brew (beverage, draft) in long prolonged sips, his expression all the while, frustratingly unreadable.

By now Disaidun Agripe was on the brink of letting her passion explode.

Zunrogo looking away, smiled knowingly, and after another sip, simply put his cup down and slightly leaned forward.

"Perhaps we can now talk of more pleasant things." He said softly as his hand reaching forward, his fingers lightly tapped (pat) the top of her hand; Zunrogo’s implied suggestion, stole her breath away.

02- ZUNROGO TUGO JP 5

 Disaidun did not pull her hand away, nor did she reject him when he next took her hand into his and this time, gently squeezed it; instead, she shut her eyes and let the thrilling, warm sensation envelop her (swathe her). She told herself that she had longed for this moment from the instant she had laid eyes on him, that she was a willing participant in whatever he desired and that, whole-heartedly, she also desired him.

                                                                                 ~

 When the fervent, immoral interlude was over, Disaidun Agripe beamed in delight, truly believing Zunrogo's affections had come straight from his heart.  She may have suspected otherwise had he tried to steal the letter from her bodice and, had he done so, she was not altogether certain she could have found the strength to refuse him.  Fortunately, he had made no such attempt.

 Tizan, when he was now escorting her back to her cabin, masking his umbrage, had remained surprisingly civil in his treatment of her. 

 Of course earlier while she’d slept peacefully in Captain’s bed, Tizan summoned to Zunrogo’s presence, in the next room were summarily briefed about the slight changes in their plan: that furthermore, Disaidun Agripe (Miss Jepipi), had now been temporarily recruited to (abridge, fill-in) secure the gap in their defenses created by Frastos and Briac's absences and, even though her contribution was negligible (insignificant) at best, it was nonetheless necessary.

Tizan had also been (commanded) ordered to say nothing, to run no interference, but to keep her under scrutiny (a watch) as she waved her net of deception over her husband and set the wheels of (destiny) destruction in motion.

                                                                                  ~

 Once the secret entrance from the deceased Captain Doku's quarters had been effectively barricaded from within, Zunrogo quickly climbed above deck to assess the work Tizan had completed. 

He smiled in satisfaction, seeing that all the traps had been properly set in the key positions according to his exact specifications and that the fortifications on deck were all solidly reinforced to encompass the required parameters of stress.

That afternoon, both Zunrogo and Tizan, furthermore, had jointly concluded the last leg of the preparations by erecting below decks the barricade that would be Disaidun Agripe’s (Miss Jepipi's) duty to defend, leaving only one passage that would be sealed later from the inside. 

                                                                                          ~

 Now that all the necessary preparations were concluded (finished, done) and the vessel had been made completely battle-ready, Zunrogo next went to the mast and, as Doku (had he been alive,) would have done at this point, hoisted the red flag with the single white star enclosed within an equilateral diamond.  Their pursuers would interpret this, as the “all clear” signal that they have been expecting.

As they watched the pennant hanging limp in the mist, Zunrogo took a few moments to update (apprise) Tizan of another revision to his prior plan; that, he intended on apprehending the culprit Lance Diostin alive, but gave no explanation, whatsoever, for the reason for this last-minute amendment.

 The outcome of the battle would determine whether-or-not, Zunrogo could risk taking his Lieutenant Tizan into total confidence; it was still too early for him to expose his actual intentions, should Tizan prove unworthy or, was somehow captured.

03- -TZAN JP

Tizan, of course, sensing that there was more at stake here than met the eye but, at the same time, knowing it would be fruitless to press Zunrogo for answers, remained reticent (taciturn, quiet). Tizan was confident that, even if in future Zunrogo didn’t oblige him with an apt answer, he could still, with his resourcefulness, resolve this mystery.

 

(END OF SECTION 31) 

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITAL – SECTION 25

Once outside, Frastos and Briac’s path led them hurriedly through bustling streets, intersections, and busy marketplaces.  Turning eventually into the side streets, then alleys followed winding pathways that skirted the more dangerous neighborhoods until they eventually halted before the awesome gate of Guzor Temple. 

01- FRASTOS - JP 10

Frastos with some effort pushed open the creaking bronze gate that was flanked by two giant (menacing looking, fierce) marble door Gods and then stepped aside to allow Briac to enter the temple grounds first. Once inside, Briac, with an uneasy, unapplicable feeling suddenly gripping his chest cavity (certain trepidation suddenly gripping his chest) halted his step (stayed his footing) and then with vigilant (wary) eyes surveyed the dilapidated, totally devoid of soul (empty, deserted) courtyard.  Suddenly, however, both Frastos and Briac had instantly found themselves facing an imposing veteran warrior (in his forties) wielding a cudgel; one who was far stronger and more agile than he let on, having manifested god knows from where, on the very scene.

"This area is forbidden to all."  He glared at Frastos and Briac with equal hostility, as he stood firm menacingly blocking their way.  "Trespassing is punishable by death.  Heed my advice and turn back at once then no harm shall befall you."

"Good sir, we are law abiding citizens."  Briac bowed gallantly, "Of course we shall do as you say."

"As soon as we are allowed to see the: “Plum blossoms that adorn the beauty passing under them."  Frastos hastily interjected (cut in).

The warrior narrowed his eyes and with the stern visage scrutinized (eyed) them both suspiciously for a brief spell; subsequently, a curious wry smile registering fleetingly on his lips, as he turned to address Frastos.

"Why didn't you say so in the first place," he ejected in his strong, husky voice, nodding.

His effort at being congenial clashed terribly with his fiery, hostile gaze.

02 - WARRIOR GUARD

"I suppose there is no harm in letting you take a peek.  Please follow me, gentlemen," with a gesture of his hand he led them to the interior.

"I must ask you to keep quiet next time.  Let me do the talking." Briac whispered, tugging on Frastos' sleeve as they were led in tow.

They had passed under several archways, had taken what seemed like a thousand turns, until they had lost all sense of direction.  After descending an endless set of stone stairs, they suddenly found themselves in a huge underground hall.  Brilliant frescoes adorned the walls.  Scenes depicted deities and sacrificial rites, so painfully detailed, so lifelike that both Briac and Frastos cringed visibly despite themselves.

 The warrior guard bade them wait in the center of this great hall then disappeared swiftly behind one of a set of six great doors.

He reemerged a moment later with ten stout armed men in tow who swiftly surrounded Briac and Frastos.  "What business do you say you have with us?" one, who looked to be their leader, stepped forward to demand.

Again, Frastos jumped in before Briac had the chance to speak, "I, Briac, have delivered here to you, sir, the scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald himself, for just and due elimination."  He pointed at Briac.

The blood in Briac's veins froze in fright.  Understanding the treachery, his face darkened in anger.

"You…"  Before Briac had the chance to utter another word, however, all ten stepped forward towards him and, in a choreographed dance of steel, instantly cut him down to pieces, right where he stood, he was dead before he could have another intake of breath (or exhale).

When it was promptly over, "We thank you." their leader bowed to Frastos.

03- LEADER

 "We've been monitoring your advance closely since the checkpoint at Zakoz and were on the point of launching a fool proof assault tonight.  Now, instead, we will feast to our easy success since you so brilliantly spared us the trouble.  I hope that you will enlighten us during our celebrations on how you successfully lured Fradel Rurik Korvald away from captain Zunrogo's protective custody and delivered him right into our lair.”

Frastos had, in fact, hoped to leave immediately but he could see no way out.

He graciously consented, though he knew that this meant his life would be forfeited.  He had, however, accepted this assignment despite the likelihood of this very outcome, so he trailed the Chief through the six great doors to the banquet hall where the feast was to be held in his honor.

He was quickly ushered to a seat next to the Chief, which was a mark of privilege and, an apt tribute for his rendered service tonight. The table was already set with mountain of meat, all kinds of local delicacies, towering exotic fruit and countless jugs and cups, all filled to the brim with variety of alcoholic brew (beverages).

04- FRASTOS - JP 09

 Frastos ate his fill and drank merrily; knowing that soon the news of the captain and two guards booking passage then sailing off on a riverboat would reach them and expose his deception.  By then, however, Fradel Rurik Korvald would be safely away from their murderous reach, and he would have done his duty.  All he could hope for now was an honorable and glorious, swift death. Looking around him, he sized up the opposition and contemplated which ones he could dispatch into the nether world before his own fatality.

An unseen eye of a Kozur affiliate (cloaked in dark attire), known as simply Tenzo, perched on a roof, however, carefully studied this courageous youth that had been so callously sacrificed by Captain Zunrogo. Kozurs could use such a valiant, highly skilled warrior; in fact, Frastos had been for some time now under their radar, a surveillance, and owing to the favorable report, Tenzo had already sent a message (written word through carrier pigeon) requesting backup, for his planned rescue. Hidden by the shadows, he now waited for the apt opportunity, as he contemplated on the steps he would take, for that successful execution of his most daring plan.

05-TENZO (KOZUR AFFILIATE)JP

                                                                                ~

 

“It’s inconceivable but, owing to the Xekor Festival, every boat in the harbor has been booked solid.  Even so, Tizan, capably found an official dispatch boat returning to Kenzor port and having settled the amount of the fare, has booked us a joint passage on this craft." Zunrogo succinctly informed Fradel, as they hastened towards the bustling harbor.

Making every effort to be congenial, he smiled, "The inconvenience will be for a short duration only. Once in Kenzor we stand a better chance at obtaining swifter, more suitable transportation to Channing.  Taking this roundabout route may also deter any pursuit from those who wish us harm."

"What about Frastos and Briac; are they to be left behind?” Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) inquired. 

“Their services are no longer required?"  The captain ejected curtly.

Fradel looked away uneasily, "Briac I understand, but Frastos?"

Zunrogo had ceased to be surprised by Fradel's keen insight.  "It could not be helped." He said coldly, keeping up the fast pace.

"At least Frastos witnessed the ten thousand cuts on…" Tizan, walking on Fradel's other side, had started to say when he was abruptly silenced by an icy glare from Zunrogo.

Still that partial phrase had been enough for Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) to grasp the unhappy outcome.

06-NEVETSECNUAC  JP 3

“So, that had been the fate of the traitor, Briac?  But what of Frastos; had he been sacrificed merely to give them this small leeway?”  Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) was dismayed by the thought. Though he had little to do with Frastos, since the time at the first Inn where they had made eye contact through the hole in the tapestry, he was, nevertheless, being a good judge of man's character, had deemed Frastos as an upright, courageous and a loyal subordinate, yet his death obviously mattered so little to Zunrogo and Tizan. 

“What kind of hardhearted monsters are you?”  Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) stole a discreet, contemptuous look at them both.

Zunrogo grinned coolly and looked away as if he’d just then read Fradel’s mind.

                                                                             ~

 

(END OF SECTION 25)                                                                                    ~