11 - LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - EVIL PERSONIFIED - SECTION 23

That same evening Lenny Sukzor’s taciturn (icy) stare, sweeping past his lovely wife Juyin, had focused for an hour over his untouched dinner plate, with his thoughts a million miles away. When Lady Juyin smiled enigmatically and broke the deathly silence with a gentle query, "Perhaps my husband would prefer a different meat, since this one is not to his liking?" Lenny just let out an exasperated breath and again dropped his eyes, his glare pinned to the uneaten meal on his plate, those savory chunks of bloodied, thinly slashed deer meat (he always preferred his meat done rare) in the center of a tastefully arrayed delicacy. Subsequently, there was a flash of anger in those eyes and his mouth creased into a grimace of pain as he reflected on the barbarous atrocities that incessantly, at the behest (command) of the Dark Eunuch, was being committed in those secret chambers of the Imperial Dungeons.  

01- LENNY SUKZOR (BURSTING WITH FURY)

Lenny Sukzor, serving more than one master, had learned some time prior, that Nijel Pinng’s actual master was Ronian Keru. He was the one that had recruited her and then trained her (to be proficient) in both the martial arts and the art of espionage. More importantly, Lenny Sukzor had received report that Ronian Keru from the start had been a secret affiliate of the Wolfbane Brotherhood. His legitimate title and the most recent post being, Magistrate Ronian Keru in Moulon Province, Ronian Keru thereof now acted under the suzerainty of Lord Shouzi Yozdek.  Lenny Sukzor therefore most recently was assigned to, on some trumped-up charge have Nijel Pinng, because of her connections, to be formally arrested and questioned, to reveal what she knew of the disappearance of Ms. Jepipi, the downfall of Lance Diostin and on the present location of the letter itself.

Before this was to happen however, in an unexpected turn of events, the moment Egil Viggoaries had discovered Nijel Pinng’s link to Lord Shouzi Yozdek, she had been most ingeniously abducted by Black Molochs’ elite force of wallcrawlers, to whom no cliff, roof or steep wall posed an obstacle. In the centuries old cells built specially below the ordinary dungeons, Nijel Pinng had then been mercilessly tortured and incessantly (ceaselessly) interrogated until a false confession was wrung out of her.

From the start Lenny Sukzor had suspected her limited intel of the crucial (fundamental) facts. Still, Egil Viggoaries would not listen to reason. What was more, Lenny had been penalized for his opposing view by being forced, after the Dark Eunuch had had his fun with his prey, to commit further ignominies on Nijel Pinng‘s corpse. Though it had sickened Lenny immensely and took all his willpower not to lash out in seething rage at the vile beast directing him, he had nevertheless meekly complied, for there had been too much at stake, not to…He could not, specifically at this point, disobey Egil’s direct command! Besides which, the Dark Eunuch’ (Egil Viggoaries’s) pitiless eyes had been on him the whole time …Looking to detect least human weakness, least flaw (shortcoming, failing). He had to do it! There had been no other way!    

Lenny’s jaw currently clenched, acutely (in merciless detail) re-experiencing all that he had endured and sacrificed these past many months and years, to become one of the Inner Circle of the Brotherhood of the Black Molochs, how could he, at this late stage, despite the oppressive shame upon his soul, sabotage it (throw it all away)?

No amount of reasoning, however, could wash away the stain on his honor (integrity, decency) or ease Lenny’s conscience; and the memory of those latest constrained acts, those haunting atrocities yet again, imperiled (risked) his psyche, threatening to totally unhinge his mind and sanity.

02- LENNY SUKZOR (SOUL IN PERIL)

Lenny’s face once more contorted (tightened) with pain, as his eyes glared with abhorrence (loathing) at the palm of his hands, knowing full well, no amount of caustic cleansing (bleach, disinfectant soap) could ever rid him of the invisible stains of blood and infamy.    

It was little consolation to know that other members of the Inner Circle had been ordered to commit far worse, repulsive acts of barbarisms; moreover, to his dismay Lenny had realized that they had emerged from their experiences with no comparable psychological suffering or torment because they had already surrendered (committed) their souls to devil (demon) and the eternal damnation. One had to be devoid of any human dignity, morality, and compassion, which were the obligatory (requisite) conditions, to subsist (survive) under Egil Viggoaries’s command.

A wave of pure revulsion rippled through his spine as he inwardly queried: Did that akin consequence, of forsaking his humanity, awaited him also? Each time he had been ordered to commit yet another viler act of depravity, his spiritual essence consequently had been diminished and evermore drew closer to oblivion (dark abyss), meanwhile, his self-worth (dignity) had irreparably waned (declined). During each assignment, the hairs on the back of his neck had bristled and his teeth had clenched in raging defiance, yet he had still, akin a docile (tame) dog, obediently accomplished (completed) his task.     

But then, how long would he have lasted in this abhorrent organization if he had challenged those mandatory onuses (duties) and mission? Even so, how much longer could he, with his pseudo sub-human traits, persevere? And how much longer must he endure this Hellish torment? He sighed deeply then dismally shook his head. But he knew he had to brave it and persevere, if only, for the sake of his beloved Country.   

 If this was the fundamental price (sacrifice) he must undergo for their cause, then so be it!

Lenny at this point catching (hearing) his wife Juyin's adroitly worded query, snorted angrily (and impatiently). Oh, why won't she leave well enough alone? Why must she be so persistently inquisitive? Why this mock concern; didn't she already have enough on him for this week's report? Lenny nevertheless inhaled deeply to let the wrath (ire) ease out of him before he answered her in a standoffish and frosty (glacial) manner. But then seeing the deep hurt in her eyes, he relented, regretting his cruelty.     

She too was a victim of her circumstance, much in the same way as he.   

Lenny’s subsequent words were soothing; however, he still pushed his plate away. After what he had been through, he had no stomach for food, any food. What he required more, was to dull his senses. And so, he instead, reached for his wine goblet and quaffed the entire contents of it. As soon as the empty goblet (vessel) hit the table it was refilled at once by his aide, Qunen Yummer. Lenny nodded his approval, then as he drunk his wine, he continued to watch Qunen, discretely, from the corner of his eye.

03 - QUNEN YUMMER (2) JP

After Qunen’s falling out with the architect, Yazume Koz, Lenny Sukzor had ignored other's protests and kept him on staff, later still he had brought him into his household and allocated challenging tasks to him, which Qunen had fulfilled quite admirably. Serving him (Lenny) sometimes in his offices, Qunen’s ample talents in time had shone and made him an invaluable employee. Increasingly since then, his very presence had become a source of comfort to Lenny. Secretly, Lenny was pleased, that this very night, it had been Qunen who had been reassigned to fulfill the duties of the ailing Steward.  

Lenny Sukzor quietly downed (imbibed) three more cupsful then, his smile tinged with sourness, he offered his wife a trite excuse for his odd behavior in toneless, meticulously pronounced words and then left the dining room with Qunen in tow. He had expected Juyin to return to her suite and do whatever women did in their solitary, free time. Yet she waited with mounting concern outside of his study until Qunen Yummer was dismissed before she approached him again.   

Lenny Sukzor had fallen into deep brooding, yet bravely, with beseeching eyes that professed intense love, Juyin had pressed him with sincere and placating words, to share his concerns about what truly ailed him, enabling her therefore a chance to provide him with wifely solace.

 

04- JUYIN SUKZOR

Why are you being so persistent tonight? Who put you up to this? What is it you are after?  

Lenny Sukzor’s look of contempt had startled her; she blanched as she drew away and, turned her head to hide the tears that started to overflow her red-rimmed eyes. Such hate! She was shaken to the core.  

Lenny Sukzor let out a long breath of exasperation then drew in another of repentance. Rising from his chair he came around the desk to stand behind her and reached out to place a gentle hand on her shoulder. His original intent was to comfort her with one or more placating, affectionate words, in a way of an apology, but his hand instead suddenly usurping control, his fingers gripped tightly and held on with mounting pressure.

"You're hurting me!" Her plaintive cry as she struggled to free herself, brought him back to his senses.  

He released his grip at once then reached out anew to offer a consoling hug. But she burst into tears once more and ran sobbing from the room.   

He knew that he should have gone after her, but he could not move from the spot. He stood woodenly; his feet (glued) rooted to the floor with a look of consternation on his face.  

What if next time, he did another unpredictable thing that would, irrevocably, hurt her? For when he was in this state of mind, he could no longer trust his innate instincts!

After so many hours, pain still smoldered in his chest (heart), as Lenny clenched his fists till his fingers hurt. That image, the wretched condition of Nijel Pinng’s corpse, obstinately would not go away; it still agonized (anguished) him. An involuntary shudder passed through him yet again, as he recalled how the despised Surgeon Lubin had been called in and, at one point when Egil Viggoaries had been engaged in directing the torture more closely, Lenny had (averted his eyes) looked away, then around to see the same shock and horror reflected on every face in the dungeon. One had even dared to exchange a fleeting glance of consternation with him. Fortunately, an urgent summons from His Highness had interrupted Egil Viggoaries sadistic pleasure and released Lenny from further torment (suffering).    

Lenny had never been so relieved, almost elated at being summoned by Zakhertan Yozdek. Normally it was an ordeal shunned by everyone but in this instance, he had greeted this dreaded duty with a grateful heart.   

                                                                                 ~ 

 

Shortly after dusk, after his brief consultation with Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek, Lenny Sukzor had then been instructed (commanded) to post haste report to Senior Grand Secretary Qarzten Caimund, for further instructions. Lenny had hastened there, been politely ushered into the primary office, and given assurances that Senior Grand Secretary, called to an urgent errand, would be there shortly. But after two or three hours of waiting Lenny Sukzor, at present, petulantly (irritably) paced to and for across the room, then returning to his chair, reluctantly helped him-self to a cupful of hot tea to steady his taut nerves.

Lenny sat there appreciative nonetheless, to be in solitude (alone), which had allowed him a repose, to check his emotions and to collect his thoughts. But as he had waited for forty-five minutes more, feeling like hours, for Senior Grand Secretary Qarzten Caimund’s arrival, unexpectedly, his wayward thoughts had again returned to the stark recollection of those gruesome images, those everlasting horrors routinely being committed back in the sub dungeons. This robbed him of any solace or real peace. It was a small consolation but at least this time, seated alone in Qarzten’s office, Lenny had been spared from eye witnessing those (inflicted) atrocities at the hand of that demonic Surgeon Lubin.     

 After a long spell, Lenny Sukzor had abruptly ceased his sipping from the third cup, put it down and disdainfully pushed it aside, for the aftertaste of hot infusion had just then turned acrid in his mouth. He leaned back and pensively closed his eyes, as he was keenly aware that these same perversities would be re-enacted again, night after night, for the Dark Eunuch's amusement and, it was a certainty that, Egil Viggoaries would make sure that next time, he (Lenny) again be present at the evil debacle.    

How long could he persevere, how long before the inevitable breakdown?  

05-LENNY SUKZOR (8)JP

Lenny’s body had stiffened just then with this inner query, and he involuntarily clenched his fists tight until his nails drew blood from his palms. Instantly he checked his emotions however and quickly wiped away all traces of blood. Fortunately, there was no danger of him being disturbed; he had seen the stacks of documents on Qarzten’s assistant’s desk in the next room, he would have his head buried under it all night long.   

No sooner Lenny Sukzor had again leaned his back in the chair however, those same vile images of countless torture victims, as well as Nijel Pinng’s, had once more commenced parading in his mind's eye.   

If only someone in The Black Molochs’ Inner Circle had superior prowess, had enough gumption (guts) and slight degree of insanity to oppose Egil Viggoaries this one time, and denied him his perversity… by swiftly and mercifully ending the wretched victim’s life.   

“Alas, this will never be. Stop fretting over matters you are powerless to alter; instead, redirect your thoughts on the task at hand.”  Lenny Sukzor shook his head with self recrimination.

Suddenly just then however, Lenny Sukzor’s wayward mind turned to another puzzling concern. Earlier on in this week, in private conference with Qarzten Caimund and before Qarzten had been suddenly called away, the minister with a grave face had started to say in muted voice, something about the Dark Eunuch Egil Viggoaries. It was an enigma to Lenny, why Quarzten had broached the subject with him at all in that cryptic, mysterious way (fashion); unfortunately, other matters taking precedence, that query had never been resolved.   

There was slight disturbance in the hallway; then Lenny Sukzor long at last heard the unmistakable sound of Qarzten Caimund’s arrival. He at once bolted (rose) to his feet and now perfectly composed, waited for Qarzten to enter the room.   

Irksomely however, Qarzten Caimund did not and furthermore, for a lengthy period in an undecipherable low voice had conversed with his assistant in the outer room (outer foyer), at the end of which, he then had instructed his competent aid to, “on his way out, inform the guards that he was not to be, under any circumstances, disturbed.”     

Short while later, the doorknob finally turned and the illustrious Qarzten Caimund, with a pleasant smile on his lips, entered his primary office. Closing the door quietly behind him, the Senior Grand Secretary indicated for Minister Lenny Sukzor to again take a seat then, walking across the room in bold strides, seated himself comfortably across from and facing Lenny Sukzor. He offered his sincerest apologies for the (unavoidable) delay then got straight down to business.     

"You have been selected by His Majesty to undertake a covert assignment of utmost importance in Subain Province. You will depart tomorrow morning at dawn, alone and without the customary panel of inquiry since this mission is an investigation only; to verify or dispute the extent of the suspected corruption in that province.” As Qarzten had said this, he’d quickly and unceremoniously, had helped himself to some not so hot tea to alleviate the sudden parch sensation in his throat, and then added, “You were chosen because you are relatively unknown at outside Channing’s bureaucratic circles, and you will not be recognized by the Provincial Officials you are probing." Qarzten Caimund then proceeded to go over the instructions for this perilous assignment, item by item, since Lenny Sukzor’s findings would then determine the measures to be taken. Pending Lenny Sukzor’s report, if the professed allegations are substantiated, Qarzten Caimund with Lenny Sukzor acting as his assistant would then be expediently dispatched on a punitive campaign to, swiftly and effectively with the help of reserve forces stationed in the adjacent province, rectify/resolve the volatile situation at Subain Province.      

Lenny quietly nodded, knowing Qarzten was the most competent minister to handle this grievous matter, for Qarzten was fearless, resourceful, and ruthless if needs be, malleable and could achieve the installation of a stable government (through his rigorous discipline and rigid regulations, stricter measures, and precedents all,) within the bounds of law and in the specified time.    

It was in truth, Lenny Sukzor’s aptitudes that were being tested (on trial) here; Qarzten was to oversee the operations while in due course, on this seemingly less significant assignment, teach Lenny the ropes, the requisite acumen and edification, before being dispatched to undertake more crucial mission of, permanently resolving the dire menace (threat, hazard) from the impenetrable, strong Guangweit Nation.     

There will be Hell to pay then, for Zakhertan Yozdek wanted nothing less than total satisfaction. Qarzten Caimund meanwhile had summarily mused on this factor, and then quickly went on to appraise Lenny at length of the recently uncovered developments in Subain Province:

He did not need to tell Lenny Sukzor the economic and strategic importance of the province, since this was known to every learned person in Wenjenkun. Subain Province, because of its low-lying terrain next to the warm sea, was responsible for eighty percent of the national salt production and it was the overseas trade in salt that made the capital, Heisen, the third largest, import/export seaport in the country. Only few ministers however, including Lenny, had been privy to the information that, the same estuaries, and marshes of Kesuo and Jefor Prefectures which allowed for the bountiful salt production were also, an ideal hiding places for an extensive number of pirates. These pirates had, for a span of time, flourished by shrewdly avoiding the government monopoly on transport of salt.

The illicit salt smuggling had brazenly been supplemented last little while by an increasing number of raids on cargo vessels and fishing boats traveling through the provincial waters. This allegedly thriving smuggling business up until now had gone unchecked, in fact perpetuated/fostered, under the covert protection racket of the corrupt local government/customs officers which had admittedly posed a serious drain on the Central Governments’ revenues. This entire matter, till recently that is, had been under the (jurisdiction) authority of Prime Minister’s offices, (which had also incorporated the Finance   Ministerial offices). Sovereign Zakhertan had only recently, covertly engaged Qarzten Caimund to look in on this matter. A thorough analysis of the accounting books had hence disclosed the irregularity- that the extent of the production reported to the Capital had been only a mere fraction/one third in measure. The rest had (purportedly) gone to making up the deficit in defense caused by the still more serious a problem in that province: the Pirates!

 

06-  SEA FARING MIGHTY WARRIORS - PIRATES (5) jp

 

In all fairness, a while back a detailed report from the provincial government had been submitted to the Prime Minister’s offices asking special aid, to deal with the growing problem of piracy in that region that had targeted cargo ships, salt transport vessels and fishing boats. What was more, it was noted that as the city expanded the plundering of cargo ships had increasingly been an earnest consideration; but as this region steadily suffered the incursions from these indigenous pirates, even the allocated funds for the defence of the coastline had become, at best, insufficient. 

Additionally on a flawed, unsound decision, the military commands (with adequate units) that had been set up at strategic points of Ziek, Roxi, Celek, Youez and Kigen, had not been expanded despite the increased number of engagements, becoming hence, quite deficient in both workforce and armament.     

The Central Government meanwhile had grown impatient and had been increasingly critical of the lack of progress report against the buccaneers, whose attacks had grown ever more frequent.     

 

 

 

(END OF SECTION 23)

 

 

                                                                                               ~

 

 

 

 

 

 INTREPID HAGEN RESCUES THE RAVEN PRINCE ARATHORN

 (BOST ORIGINAL STORY 2025)

There was once a handsome, brave, strapping young man named Hagen, of about nineteen years of age, with long blond hair and brilliant blue eyes like the sky on a clear day. He knew how to read and write, as his retired scholar father had taken pains to educate him at home; meanwhile, his mother the healer, had passed on to him her knowledge about the traditional herbal medicines. Hagen always had a wild imagination and since childhood he’d read copious (abundant, profuse) fantasy books; he was additionally interested in anything pertaining to supernatural and rather enjoyed dabbling in old sorts of magic.

01-HAGEN  (6) jp

Hagen unfortunately lost his parents to fever about four years ago and since he had no other relatives, he continued to live alone in the wooden cabin, halfway down the mountain that had its summit permanently shrouded in snow and ice. Hagen was a resourceful young man who made a pretty good living by hunting and foraging in the woods for rare medicinal herbs and roots, then selling these pelts (furs) and the dried herbs at the nearby town.  

It so happened that one ordinary day at dusk a traveller cloaked in black, just happened to be passing through the mountain; fortuitously, his path crossed Hagen’s, who’d spent the day collecting specific herbs and rare medicinal roots, which filled the bucket on his back to the brim.

02-ADELRAM (1) JP

The traveller who’d introduced himself as Adelram (meaning, dark and noble), professed that he was actually a spiritualist (choosing not to say a sorcerer) on his way to the Ingolf Temple; unfortunately, he’d temporarily lost his way. Ingolf Temple was a place of great interest to Hagen as he’d once heard his father mention it to his mother, with great reverence. When Hagen later inquired about it, suspecting that his father might have once been a member of that sect or something else, his father had drawn a long face, then in a stern voice he’d vehemently denied knowing anything about it, and furthermore, irritably had admonished (rebuked) his son to never mention that name Ingolf, ever again. Hagen could not let it go however, and after pestering his mother, she’d secretly imparted to him the only fact she knew, that this was a secret sect that was very exclusive, and its location was quite mysterious. Now chancing on this spiritualist who was on his way to that very temple, well, Hagen could not simply let him go; not without extracting further information from him.

What Hagen did not know however, was that the sorcerer had been actively searching for Hagen’s father, for no one had ever belong to that sect and got to leave it, the way Hagen’s father had done. As it had just then begun to rain, and from the look of things, the rising wind herding the flotilla of clouds in the sky, the downpours would be upon them soon, Adelram, before they were drenched, readily accepted the invitation to spend the night in a warm dry place. Along the way Adelram had truthfully confessed to Hagen that his bones were quite weary from his lengthy travels anyway, and that his stomach gnawed as he’d forgotten to eat past two days. He would resume his journey the subsequent day, or when the rain had let up, with renewed vigour after a good night’s rest. What could be better than that?

Once at the wood cabin however, Adelram had learned that both Hagen’s parents had passed away; negating the need to fulfill his secret assignment. Meanwhile, Hagen’s blissful ignorance about his father’s past, had saved his life.  

03-ADELRAM (8)JP

After repast, the two comfortably seated by the hearth (fireplace) they had sincerely conversed delving into many topics, and in a very short time, Adelram become quite fond of the youth; furthermore, he was impressed with Hagen’s brilliance of mind and good heart.

Adelram at one point, as a matter-of-factly, feigning mild interest, asked to see Hagen’s right palm, and readily been given access to it, he studied the lines for a long while, secretly reading much more, as he was also a seir (diviner, clairvoyant, psychic). Subsequently, he knitted his brows, and then pinning (burrowing) his eyes into Hagen’s, he studied the boy’s subconscious mind.  In the end, Adelram, knowing what he knew, swiftly decided to impart some of his knowledge of the (sacred scrolls) mystic arts to this trusting, likeable youth, Hagen; therefore, providing him with slant chance to overcome future catastrophe, and perhaps even save his life. The outcome and how he fared (managed) the danger, however, would still depend on Hagen’s future competence (aptitude, skill).

Adelram had stayed with Hagen for several more days during which time he’d imparted on (taught him) Hagen, a good measure of the arts, with the result that the young man became an expert (proficient) in most spells and charms. As Hagen continued to show such promise Adelram, before his intended departure, took Hagen aside and showed him an incantation (spell) that he'd carefully written down during the night on a parchment, while Hagen had blissfully slept. It dealt with the exorcism of specific type, supremely powerful demon-spirit and told Hagen to set it aside for now, till one day, when in dire straits, he might make good use of it. Adelram then holding out the second parchment, said, “My dear boy, here's several more effective spells (hexes) which I’ve written down for your eyes only; these incantations will exorcise (banish, eliminate) most evil spirits; guard it well, and it will always provide you with a good source of income. You’ll never lack for dosh (cash, bread) and in time it may even provide you with a beautiful wife.”

Hagen gratefully accepted the gift.

Time passed and as Hagen practiced the mystic arts, word of his competence spread and as he’d prospered, he took up residence in the nearby small village. He conducted his business of mysticism, divinations, exorcisms and dispensed herbal remedies, from his current modest dwelling at the edge of the village. As he became renown far and wide, Hagen’s gate was thronged with folk bearing many gits to solicit his help.

04- SEDIT

Then one day a haughty (arrogant) merchant (who had prospered from selling arms and quality farm equipment) named Sedit, called on Hagen and in private consultation told Hagen that he was terribly worried about his precious younger daughter Botilda, worst still, he feared his daughter’s life might be in dire peril from an evil spirit or a ghost. He offered Hagen rich rewards if he would go and see her.  Hearing that it was a case of life and death, Hagen consented to help and, forgoing any pre-payment for his trouble, set out immediately with Sedit to reach his residence. They travelled for several days, for the place was quite far. Eventually one late afternoon they arrived at this remote locale and presently came to Sedit’s house perched on a hilltop, which proved to be a magnificent mansion, built like a fortress. Entering it, Hagen was conducted to where Botilda was sleeping behind a gauze curtain; and when her maids hung up the curtain, he saw that though she was barely sixteen, her features were ravaged as if by a very long illness.

As Hagen drew closer to examine her, the girl suddenly opened her eyes and smiled.

“Here comes a good physician!” Botilda said in a hushed voice.

The whole family was delighted, for up till then, she had remained as if in a coma, not uttering a single sound, for several days.

After his brief examination, Hagen left the girl’s chamber and went to the study where Sedit was, to acquire more specifics about her prior symptoms; consequently, Hagen learned from Sedit, that in broad daylight servants had observed, more than once, a young man going into Botilda’s bed. At each attempt to catch him however, the young man had vanished, only to reappear soon after. Sedit therefore had deduced (assumed) that he must be an avenging evil spirit or a ghost.

“If he is a ghost,” remarked Hagen, “I can easily rid you of him. But if he is a powerful demon, I shall be powerless to help.” 

“No, of that I’m certain, he is not!” exclaimed Sedit with a wry smile. Sedit had then grumbled something under his breath, then added in hushed voice, “He wouldn’t dare trespass on my …!” Then staying his tongue, he’d furtively looked to ascertain Hagen had not caught (heard) the careless lingo (speech, utterance, mumble).

Having dispensed written charms to some of the attending servants, those around the patient, Hagen retired for the night, though sleep averted him. At stroke of midnight, a well-dressed young man entered his room, and Hagen, taking him to be some relative of the host, rose from his couch and ask to learn the stranger’s name.

05- RAVEN PRINCE ARATHORN  jp

“I am the Raven Prince Arathorn, my physical form, spellbound by the silver chains, is held captive (imprisoned) in the very dungeon below,” was the disconsolate (melancholy, sad) reply. “Do not underestimate that villain Sedit, he is in truth, a powerful panther demon. His supposed wife Ellisif and her daughters Botilda and Freya, are his human captives. Sedit, five years ago brutally murdered her husband and took her for himself. But he had, same time also, kidnapped her two young girls …. Let’s just say he has sinister plans for them both when they become full adult.  Before my capture, I, with my youthful exuberance, wanting to see the world, had left the safe heaven of my father’s kingdom, in search of adventure. Passing through this region, I happened to see, Botilda, the young lady you’ve been asked to cure (restore to health), carefree and gathering wildflowers at the edge of the forest and felt instantly drawn to her; nevertheless, I flew on by.” Arathorn, dropping his head, fell silent for a moment, recalling in his mind’s eye, the delightfully captivating, serene scene back then, a time which seemed a lifetime ago.

06- RAVEN PRINCE ARATHORN - CHAIND IN THE DUNGEON

He cleared his throat and then resumed his say, “But then, since I could not get her out of my mind, I flew back sometime later, to glimpse her one more time.  I came upon the horrific scene. I fought him but he was too powerful and in the and, I too was taken captive by this loathsome (immoral, vicious), malignant demon. Because I have taken fancy to Botilda, I managed to release my spirit from my body, and aptly disguised, through telepathic (telekinetic) projections, akin now, from time to time, I confess that I had visited her, though chiefly to console her and try to give her hope, scant hope that there was, till you happened to come along.”  

07- BOTILDA IN CAREFREE TIMES

Arathorn allowed Hagen to see him as he truly was, bound by chains in the dungeon; before shifting back to less dramatic (pitiable) form. Arathorn pensively bit the corner of his lip and shook his head; thenceforth, he in serious tone, cautioned Hagen: “Do not let your guard down, not for a second; he has sought you out for some malevolent motive. You are a pray, not his salvation. I approached you with this warning, because I can sense that you are a decent mortal being. And perhaps we can find some apt resolution to this dilemma; possibly we can in some way help each other, as you are true of heart and for this reason, I decided to trust you.  I shall also relay to you that Botilda’s elder sister Freya, who shall be eighteen years old in seven day’s time, is even more beautiful than my beloved. But I assure you, I only have eyes for Botilda; and, till present our relationship has only been platonic, I have not done anything improper, and I am not certainly responsible for her ailment. While I have respected and even guarded their virtue, there is a mysterious force that is perpetuated by Sedit, poised to, in not to distant future, inflict harm on them both.  Temporarily, doing my best to protect them, I deliberately caused mayhem and fright to deter his dastardly aim. But my vitality is waning (diminishing) and the bluff will only work so far; I cannot shapeshift, I cannot use my innate powers, I am rendered utterly helpless and at his mercy. But I care not for my welfare; my chief worries are of the innocent two; what will become of them when I’m gone? Who will save them then?”

08- HAGEN  (1)jp

Hagen’s face as he’d listened, had revealed no emotion at all, though inwardly he’d seethed in fury. His heart was beset with dismay by all these shocking revelations and his righteous sense demanded for him to at once lash out at Sedit, to attack and destroy this demon.  He wanted nothing better than to rescue the innocent captives, to release the raven prince, only, he did not know how to go about it.

As if reading (anticipating) what was on his mind, Prince Arathorn suddenly said, “We need a good plan, an apt strategy before we go up against him; and conceivably, a powerful incantation, one that would paralyse (incapacitate) him, if not, rob him of his powers, long enough to enable us to terminate him. But I know no such spell; do you?”

09- RAVEN PRINCE ARATHORN (9)jp

Suddenly, the very incantation Adelram had gifted to him, came to Hagen’s mind and, after an elated chortle (snigger), he happily exclaimed: “Yes, indeed; I happened to have the very thing!” After that, he briefly told Raven Prince Arathorn about Adelram and his imparted secret incantation, Hagen was certain it would be the key (fundamental armament) solution.

Subsequently, both Hagen and Arathorn wracked their brains till they devised a concrete plan; mindful that they would only get this one chance to best the demon. They needed the help of one other willing participant, however, one the demon would not suspect and preferably the very one the demon would overlook. There was only one person, that it could be…

Next day before noon, Hagen approached Sedit and told him that after the night’s deliberation, he’d arrived at a probable solution; but then he hesitated (stalled), and after exhaling a deep breath, he stated that he would do this on one condition however, as he would face certain peril, in leu of payment for his services, he wished  that Sedit would consent to wed him to his elder daughter Freya.

Sedit looked as though he would explode, but he quickly swallowed his rage, and forcing a smile to his lips, a smile that never reached his cold eyes, he tautly ejected, I’ll need some time to consider this. Then as if in afterthought, he nodded in agreement, “Never mind; I agree.”

Weary of deception and fearing Sedit might recant the nuptial agreement once Botilda was entirely cured (and supposedly safe), Hagen asked for an added assurance from Sedit’s wife Ellisif who happened to just then came out from the inner chambers. Ellisif, having heard of their accord, and hope springing in her heart, she’d advanced towards Hagen to greet him and state also her ready pledge.

10 - BOTILDA  2

“These suspicions are quite unworthy of you, sir!” Ellisif, nevertheless, criticized Hagen, trying not to appear too eager. My husband’s word is law in this household, however, since you ask for guarantee, would this suffice?” Ellisif then, with pretend indignation, (handed over) gave him Freya’s gold hairpin. As Hagen received the hairpin, he discretely that same moment had slipped into her pocket a written note. She’d sensed this and after her furtive look at her husband, convinced he’d not noticed this breach, Ellisif then sharply looked at Hagen, to silently berate him for his audacity, for such dangerous and improper conduct, but seeing the urgent warning in Hagen’s eyes, an understanding dawning on her, she shut her mouth and said nothing more.

Subsequently, Hagen had spent most of the day making certain preparations. Shortly after dusk, he then summoned the whole household and chanted incantations to exorcise the ghost. Hagen burned some sage and did some smudging, which was a typical purifying ritual. After re-examining the sick girl Botilda, he asked for water to sprinkle on the curtain.

11-FREYA

To his utter delight it was the elder sister who swiftly brought him a bowl, stealing glances at him as she came and went. Hagen felt captivated by her grace and beauty but pretended not to notice her. Meanwhile, Botilda had for some reason, a relapse, and now was moaning in her bed, but when he mumbled his incantations and then sprinkled holy water over her, this after he’d given her an herbal potion (chiefly to sooth her nerves but same time keep her alert and awake), she appeared subdued, and possibly cured. Hagen then left her side. She did not lose any consciousness and thereafter, had no episodes or irregularities during the rest of that night.

12-ELLISIF (1)

The Raven Prince Arathorn, also as per agreed, did not manifest in Botilda’s chamber at all.

All seemingly was quiet that afternoon; moreover, because of the spell Hagen had secretly invoked, it had deterred the evil spirit, from possible trespass and rehash her ailment. The job seemingly concluded, Hagen now prepared to take his leave, but Sedit pressed him to stay for the night and would not take no for an answer. He was promptly served a sumptuous feast at repast; Ellisif and Sedit entertained Hagen as a most honoured guest, his host remaining with him till he retired to his room for forty winks (sleep). Just as Hagen laid down to slumber (nap, sleep), he heard an impatient knocking at the door and arose to find Freya there. She furtively looked about then darted in.

13-FREYA

“My stepfather will propose that you stay on two additional nights, and he’ll tell you that the day after tomorrow, on the third night, we will be wed in private ceremony; but he has no intention of letting me to ever marry you; he is plotting instead, to murder you tomorrow night!”    She gasped. “You must flee to safety… Please, leave under some pretext at dawn tomorrow, I can’t bear to see you perish, fly for your life!” This said in an urgent voice and turning around, she was gone. But Hagen had no intention of fleeing.

Following morning Sedit looking terribly annoyed and grim, without knocking simply barged into Hagen’s room and in furious tone informed Hagen of the sudden relapse in his daughter’s condition at dawn and hence, demanded he examine her again. Hagen suspected a cover-up for Sedit’s failed, flustered, dubious, evil attempts. Prior, having anticipated this turn, (possibly of Sedit’s), Hagen had covertly put in place, potent, strips with protection incantations. It must have worked; however, this could not be repeated, for it was only a temporary solution.  He needed to return to his home immediately and study the parchment Adelram had gifted him. He would then return, armed with the knowledge, to initiate the rest of the carefully devised plan.

14- SEDIT -(DEVIL PANTHER ) (3)jp

When Sedit had to leave midmorning that day, to oversee some business matter in town, and stated that he would be back before dusk, this gave Hagen the single chance, and borrowing one of their horses from the stables, on some pretext he left the mansion.

He galloped the steed all the way and returning home in haste, he quickly fetched the parchment. He read the incantation, committed it to memory, fetched the necessary herbal concoction, fortunately for him already in liquid form, in a blue small bottle, this secured in his inner pocket, he then once more mounting the steed, galloped back, mount and rider drenched in perspiration, to arrive in nick of time at Sedit’s mansion. He was back late afternoon, just before Sedit’s posh carriage had pulled to a stop at the (well guarded) iron gates.

15- SEDIT -DEVIL PANTHER  (23)JP

At repast that night, goblet filled with his choice wine, Sedit, commanding attention, made a toast to Hagen specifically, for completely curing Botilda, and then again for his upcoming nuptial to Freya. What he did not know however, was that the wine had been infused with the specific incantation laced concoction. As Sedit drunk to his black heart’s content, smiling with sinister glee, his thoughts engaged with enumerating his secret vile plan that late night, he did not pay too much attention, that just then his true form was revealed to all, though only for a spell; and, if anyone had blinked, they would have missed it.

16- DEVIL PANTHER  (12)JP

Then the transformation began: Sedit’s blazing eyes dimmed, gradually his senses had dulled and his physique on cellular level shifted; bit by bit (increasingly), without him knowing it, he had lost his omnipotent power to then slowly become just a mere mortal being. When the realization had set in, he had only mere seconds to reverse the damage, to alter the lasting effects. This was the most crucial moment, the only window of opportunity, when he was utterly vulnerable as a living, breathing mortal being. There had been a vague reference to this in the parchment; but even Adelram could not be certain of it. Hagen had, nevertheless, factored this variance into the plan, deciding to chance it.  At that critical juncture, Sedit’s timid (brow-beaten) wife Ellisif, who had suffered so terribly at his hand all these years, still bereft (mourning, grieving) of her beloved husband’s murder, and now Sedit was still planning far worse for her beloved children, well, something had snapped in her.

17 -ELLISIF (5)jp

Ellisif suddenly had stood up, turned, and akin a tigress she plunged the long dagger’s blade (a stiletto) straight into Sedit’s transformed (altered) completely human heart. Even though the warm red blood (not black blood)  rapidly spread, soaking his tunic in crimson, he still overcoming this shock, had enough predatory vigour (strength) in him that, before anyone could intercede (put a stop to it), his hand had precipitously reached out and fiercely grabbing Ellisif by the keck, crushed the bone. In a blink of an eye, both Sedit and Ellisif had expired instantaneously, (toppling) collapsing lifeless, on the floor. The malevolent devil had met his end, but unfortunately, he’d managed to claim one more innocent victim, even at the very end.

18- RAVEN PRINCE ARATHORN (36)jp

Now the moment the Devil had expired, so had ceased (stopped) the spell that had bound the Raven Prince in chains (manacles, cuffs, fetters).  Arathorn’s power suddenly restored, he ripped the shackles (restraints) as if they were paper; once freed, his fists next smashed open the locked iron doors and he hastened (bolted) up the stairs.

19-RAVEN PRINCE ARATHORN (18)jp

                                                                             ~

Long after the funeral of Ellisif and the proper mourning period, the two surviving daughters in a simple ceremony had joyfully married to their beloveds. As life goes on, eventually two sisters parted company, and each at different milieu (locale, background, environment) resumed rest of their fulfilling existence.

Raven Prince Arathorn flew, with his human wife Botilda held tight in his arms, and returning home in no time at all, as he was the sole heir (successor), reclaim his rightful place in that kingdom.

20- RAVEN KING ARATHORN (26)jp

Botilda lived happily with the then crowned king, as his queen in this surreal, most fantastic world; soon after, they were blessed with two healthy boys and lived contentedly to ripe old age.

Hagen also lived blissfully for many years with Freya, overcoming many challenges and then passing on their knowledge to three beautiful children when they grew up, two boys and one girl. Hagen and Freya’s love never diminished throughout their ordeals in the mortal realm, not even when they were old, feeble and their hair turned completely white, as they were always surrounded by caring friends, good neighbours, and the incessant (continuous) joy and laughter of children and many grandchildren (permeating the air).

 

The End