THE ORDEAL - SECTION 2

 

 THE ORDEAL – (SECTION 2)

It so happened that, when a heavy downpour of a subsequent time constrained her to take shelter earlier than usual in an abandoned cave-and yes, strangely enough no sooner the need arose, one without fail always mysteriously availed itself- fortuitously or not, she’d spotted a cluster of wild mushrooms at the interior of the cave just past the entrance, and mistaking them for an edible variety, she’d used some of it as a garnishing to liven up her otherwise dull fare.

Consequently, shortly after ingesting it she’d lost all consciousness, remaining so, in that most vulnerable state for an unsettlingly undetermined time. Afterwards she’d shuddered at the thought of it, for imperiled (rendered vulnerable) such, she could have fallen prey to perhaps a malignant force or forces. As it were, the moment her eyelids were shut, an enormous size snake- a python of sorts appearing on the scene- had quietly coiled her in a protective circle and remained so for the entire duration of her sleep.

Meanwhile the steed had already been well teetered some ways off inside the mouth of the cavern; though greatly alarmed, he could not run away. When she’d finally regained her consciousness, sensing a presence of sorts, she’d turned on her side somewhat groggily, with her eyes slid ajar to behold just then the gargantuan, long tapering cylindrical form silently slithering away to instantaneously (summarily) vanish into thin air.

In her petrified (terrified) state, her already rigid limbs growing colder still, as if anesthetized, became fastened to the very ground. Eventually with the warm blood once more coursing through her veins she’d regained the full use of her faculties.  Needing a breath of fresh air then, she’d steadied her nerves and willed her feet to the outside; but one catastrophe besetting another; she’d this time come face to face with the most ferocious mountain lion guarding the entrance.

Two fiery gleams from crimson pupils had (shot) projected forth to pierce her very soul; then, in a blinking of an eye it too had evaporated, leaving her to doubt the validity of this intense and frightful experience. Ghostly white, her hand resting on a pounding, palpitating heart, she’d after a spell, dismally thence had shaken her head and took in a calming breath. Get a grip on your sense’s girl! It’s nothing more than a bogus, surreal imagery. Biting the corner of her upper lip, she then loudly reasserted: “There’s nothing before me. It’s only a cruel hoax of my imagination, an elaborate hallucination, or perhaps, the remnant of the nightmare!” For what other explanation could there be, still, it’d felt so real! 

Oh, but this is so disconcerting- in my solitude my mind has begun playing such tricks on me! Her forehead creasing, with a frown she again inwardly aggrieved. I’m increasingly becoming delusional; and how long will it be, before the impending insanity? This wildlife abstinence besieged by this abject, unearthly silence, living each day on the precipice, how much more can I, must I endure? Shall I ever reach my objective, or shall I be worsted (defeated) way before any true chance is gained? Thus far I’d stood firm in my belief of Heaven’s guidance and protection; but what if I’m, I’ve been wrong all along? Could I in fact, perhaps, cast under the spell of evil mountain spirits, am being led astray, driven into the very core of the destructive fires of the Underworld; or equally worse, be trapped permanently in the sinister web of abysmal loss?

                                                                                                          ~

Thankfully, subsequent days nothing untoward had happened, nothing at all worth mentioning. Through sheer willpower she’d regained her full sensibilities and once more focused her attention on achieving the task at hand (major objective).

The hardest ordeal to overcome however, had been the ever-present weird quiet and the unsettlingly persistent monotony that had by then expanded till it’d stilled the very wind and engulfed the all-encompassing air. Meanwhile, the ache of loneliness growing incessantly strong, had by degrees gripped her heart, her very soul in such an all-consuming vise that it had dangerously at times distorted full facts, consumed life’s least joy, diminishing any or scant hope. Her sanity teetering on the brink, of late she’d entertained a vehement hanker, that her constant, albeit phantom companion be somewhat manifest, regardless of whatever the form!

On this singular morning with the invariable concern still pestering her mind, before setting out on the next leg of the journey she’d voiced her pent-up desire, then laughed out loud at her own folly, her silliness for doing so.

After an incessant, grueling ride where they’d ascended the precariously hung narrow strip of the goat’s path that semi-circled a steep cliff and then negotiated a difficult, rocky terrain- by late afternoon of the subsequent day, she and the horse had finally got some reprieve when they’d reached a relatively sheltered, level, grassy patch.

Her face now gently caressed by the subdued winds, in her exhaustive state she was soon lulled into a consistent stupor (trance) by that ever-present monotonous, unnatural quiet; ergo she rode on with a hung head, her mind lost in a miasma of obscure imagery- leaving the more alert steed to at will pick the course. When the mount suddenly halted and neighing threaded his hoof nervously on the ground, Teuquob snapped out of her hypnotic reverie, sullenly raised her head and looked bleakly on ahead not expecting much of any variance.

What’s this, another phantom?

Remarkably however, what she’d perceived did not, as in the past, spontaneously dissipate or instantly vanish into thin air. This time around the illusory mental image persisted (lasted) and remained altogether solid.

Oh, but how can this be? Disbelieving her eyes she rubbed them, and then with a focused vision anew looked on. But no mistaking it… There, up ahead her eyes still beheld a rather pleasant looking, long haired, clean shaven young man who was not much older than she and what’s more, was clad in strangely familiar attire. His bearing was immaculately clean and well composed. Armed with a staff, he supported a bundle over one shoulder.

Unabashedly (brazenly) meeting her inquisitive eyes, he simply nodded as if in answer, yes, you are not envisioning me. I assure you, I’m flesh and bones!

Then sporting a most charming smile he quickly advanced with bold strides towards her. His friendly demeanor had at once disarmed her, but not her nervous steed, which now fidgeted terribly and strove to run away. As she dismounting, tried to calm the beast, the young man meanwhile at closer proximity now, graciously, with an elaborate gesture of the hand and bow of the waist extended his verbal polite greetings to her.

So elated had she been at the fortuity (prospect) of meeting a sole companion, that the strange occurrence did not strike her as being odd till much later: That in this inhospitable, God-forsaken stretch she would chance on a being, a relatively disarmed one, on foot, so well preserved- with hardly a scratch on him, totally composed, spotlessly clad and propitiously, speaking to her in her own native dialect. Instead, quite ecstatic, she’d at once turned to squarely face him and to extend her likewise polite greetings. Just then, however, the reins that she’d held onto rather laxly got violently yanked from her hand. The spooked beast let out a frightful neigh and arching its back trampled the air up high with his fore hoofs (hoofed feet) before summarily bolting in lightning speed.

But her attempt at rushing after the steed had at once been vigorously curtailed by the amicable stranger who’d politely then proceeded to give his mitigated reasons, at the same time advising her on the futility of such a course.

“Let him be.” He insisted. “The path from here on being steeper, you’ll have no further use for the beast of burden. You’ll be doing him a favor. He stands a better chance of surviving on his own. Who knows, he may even find his way back home; however far that may be!” He cheekily sized her up then grimaced. “But come, come, you needn’t worry- you are in good hands now! Oh, and don’t worry about your stuff (belongings) either,” He rushed to reassure her. “I have here in these bags,” he pointed to the two bundles (that at times hung from the pole) which he carried leaning over one shoulder, “everything you’ll ever need and more. It’ll be my pleasure to share.” His apparent generosity of the heart coupled with his tranquil, melodious tone had an almost bewitching effect on her, at once erasing any suspicion or misgivings from her mind. Besides, she’d wanted and chose to believe in the stranger’s virtue and moral rectitude, overriding the otherwise instinctual warnings, deeming him to be probably untrustworthy and even dangerous- likened to a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

What’s more, in a short span even the residue reservations had melted away as true to his word, he’d proven quite competent in expeditiously tending to all her needs. The shared, the consumed dried rations amazingly enough, had promptly restored her to her prior good health and vigor; meanwhile, the special brew he’d insisted on her partaking a sip or two, had instantly with remarkable potency, cleared the cobwebs from her mind, erasing least doubt and fear. Moreover, as a lasting boon, her cognizance and thoughts from then on had become lucid, more translucent and focused. At least that’s what she’d deemed, rather, believed it to be true!

The strange ointment which he’d concocted from the combination of few indigenous plants and powdered ingredients that he had on him, had in due course brought about the most miraculous effect on all her cuts and bruises.

 The spare garment, cape and footwear which he’d so generously produced from his bundle -one of the supposed offerings destined for an “Earth Goddess” of a specific shrine he’d hoped to visit- now being bestowed on Teuquob, meanwhile, fit her perfectly and so comfortably that it was beyond belief. The exquisitely embroidered damask, unusually durable, light and breathable, kept her body’s temperature moderately cool during physical exertion in the daylight hours and perfectly warm and snug during inactivity and sleep despite the frigid temperatures of nighttime.  Meanwhile, every step she took from thereon was like walking on air or on clouds.

Necessities well disposed, as means of cementing the relationship and hoping same time to goad (prod) her into doing the same- he’d somewhat reluctantly and bashfully relayed his tragic personal history: Claiming to be of a young lad from an old established aristocratic family from Kontu that unfortunately due to unavoidable circumstances, while he was in his early teens, his family had fallen on hard times. Bent on upholding of what was just and honorable his illustrious father had sought retribution; unfortunately, with dire consequences. Ensuing years of retaliation and much bloodshed, he, the last of his line, finally seeing the light through the rigors of covert spiritual discipline, had long at last broken free from the ongoing vendetta and embarked on this religious quest. Hinting at an unimaginable atrocity, and some of it by his own hands, then a most grievous personal loss, details of which, being still too fresh, too painful for him to recount: he’d, after having ignited her curiosity and fueled her wild imagination, gracefully abstained from revealing any further.

She had no reason to doubt his story. Nor could she fathom the true motive, even if she did, for the weaving of such an elaborate account that would have ultimately ensnared the wisest, the absolute disbeliever in such a potent net. Meanwhile she’d relented about her earlier incertitude and so came to confess of her actual name being that of Teuquob, not Jiense. Despite her gratitude however, she’d remained (tight-lipped) hesitant to recount or to reveal the least bit of her personal history, deferring it to later time instead.

 He’d been both kind and understanding- masking not so well his apparent curiosity- by not pursuing the matter or prying into the reasons for her prior deceit. Afterwards, the two walking alongside, he’d readily volunteered his other admirable qualities, cloaked in false modesty of course. Overall as he appeared most sincere and kind, his amicable words soon won him her unbiased confidence. Of late she had even entertained the notion of forgoing the wait and unburdening herself entirely, without qualm, to this most sympathetic, compassionate individual. Observing him from the corner or her eye, rather discreetly she nodded to herself, yes, perhaps this evening, after the repose will be an appropriate time.

It turns out, he beat her to it.

They had not gone far that afternoon, when he’d abruptly halted and turning to face her, “Please don’t think me too intrusive, but your ladyship is on a similar quest as I, are you not?” he’d suddenly, to her astonishment, blurted out.

“That depends on the kindness of fate sir.” Her rash, ambivalent answer had at once escaped her lips; for amidst shock, she was inwardly pondering on what had given her away. Was it her demeanor, the manner of speech …What? Teuquob, granted a rare name, was merely her personal name, known only to immediate family members and a few intimate people.  He could surely not have made the connection. In Kontu she’d been sequestered most of her life in private quarters, there was little likelihood of him ever knowing anything about her- even if he’d happened to be, as he’d claimed, a prior aristocrat from her native land. Unless!?... Through the trusted grapevine, she’d heard of the existence of DFOCA (Deadly force of covert assassins) an elite network of spies and assassins recruited from all walks of life, in the secret employ of Hedenko. The special force, being party to all confidential information, had perpetuated and maintained a vast record on all key Kontu citizens, civilians, military and nobles alike. Nothing, however minute, escaped their detection or enumeration. The often-utilized knowledge, had spread fear and dread throughout the country, reaching far beyond the national borders!

But no! She quickly rejected that notion as well. No, he couldn’t be one of those butchers; there had to be another reason for his stark (blunt), startlingly keen perception.

From the corner of her eye, she studied him a while longer even though she’d desperately wanted to learn the extent of his knowledge, how much more did he know and was not telling?  But instead masking her resurgent unease, she presently smiled and quickly intoned. “But please do not refer to me in kind. I’d rather be addressed plainly, as Teuquob.”

“Though we are far from any civilization, I still wouldn’t be so presumptuous as to continue on with this impropriety- being guilty of blatant violation of protocol by addressing you by your personal name my Lady.” At once he’d vehemently objected; but as she insisted, relenting, he’d agreed to bend the rules of etiquette a little. “Oh, very well, as we are both cast perhaps by “Heaven’s” secret design into this wilderness, I suppose it won’t hurt to transcend some social barriers.” After a winning smile, with an elaborate bow- his hand in a semicircle sweeping the air- he’d gallantly consented. “In truth, I hate all that contrived ostentatious, pompous nonsense anyhow!” Looking away, he’d then mumbled to himself. “But I am rather offended and should really be cross with you for pegging me a DFOCA spy…Especially since I’ve said and done nothing to warrant that. Pray tell me, what further proof you need of my sincerity and of my good will?” He looked askance at her, then half turning chewed on the words, “Humans!” 

Before she could respond however, anew facing her in an altered mood, he’d with an amicable tone suddenly interjected: “Then again, it was providence that threw us together. An encouraging thought! Hmm, we must therefore, for the sake of harmony, strive to be more lenient, more tolerant of any shortcomings and not take any offence- whether it is in the form of misspoken words, acts or thoughts- to heart. Don’t you agree?” But his question seemingly did not warrant any response, as he without a pause continued. “The fault lies with me; in not completely winning your confidence, I humbly therefore offer my apologies! Absolute trust, basis of any friendship, after all, must be earned.”

Dumbfounded by this lecture, she’d just looked up at him, seeing him as if for the first time, but now in a different light. A truly complex individual, a bit paranoid perhaps and interchangeable as the wind, he was. Furthermore, underlying his seeming humility, she’d detected his feelings of annoyance, and a certain arrogance smothered in impatience.

This time he was truly irked by her. But mastering his outrage, he simply lowered his eyes and in thoughtful air stroked his chin. “Hmm. Unfortunately, yes, there is no other recourse my L… um, correction, Teuquob; you must ascent this terrible mountain that lies ahead if you so desire to reach the intended place of warship.” Looking up, he intoned earnestly, his face the very picture of a concerned sponsor. “But take heart for I can be of great service to you. I know what’s at stake and what’s to be expected; with all my abilities placed at your disposal, you needn’t be dismayed (or be afraid of failing). After all, and please don’t think me impertinent or presumptuous: For I say this with deep conviction: Yes, I must have been planted here by providence, as nothing is per chance; doubtlessly to see to it that you’ll fulfill your aim!”

A magnetic, winsome smile brushed his lips as he again startled her with the subsequent revelation. “Hmm; yes, you may also erase those worry lines, for Ensa is all right. She made it back O.K. The rough (thug) Yoansu meanwhile after an extensive search has deemed you to be dead…Perished in some deep chasm or at the maw of a voracious beast.  He’s long since called off his goons!”

“How did you…?” She sharply looked up, abruptly falling silent. Was he clairvoyant, able to foretell the future as well as decipher her thoughts (read her mind) and know her heart’s innermost desires?

Not quite. I told you the things you needed to hear. He wryly mused, narrowing his eyes. “Yes, you can say that; I’m somewhat a mystic.” He devilishly chuckled, meanwhile, outwardly answering her subsequent, silent query.

Observing her further unease, with a glib tongue he rushed to quickly add. “But I do hope you are not offended or least bit frightened by it? I do humbly apologize for my transgressions. This ability, newly gained boon or a curse has been the result of my long years of extensive spiritual training that had also encompassed rigors of meditation.  Yet if it makes you least bit uncomfortable, I’m more than willing to curtail, that is to refrain, as a sort of courtesy - as I’d done so already since our first meeting till now- from using this skill.  If you so desire, I’ll certainly abide by your wishes, to ensure you of your absolute right to privacy?”

She was thinking, you are true gentlemen, sir! When she, speechless, nodded her head.  

“It shall be as you desire!” he smiled amicably (delightedly). She was oh so naïve!

“I do apologize for getting on ahead of myself.” Lowering his gaze for a spell, he ejected sincerely. “After all, as fellow travelers on a serious quest, we must first learn to be at ease with each other; and only after a sufficient time perhaps become serious confidents, if not soul mates! And please do forgive my reiteration: the foremost basis, the core of any lasting relationship is trust, is it not? Taking due liberty,” he swallowed, shunning her eyes and looking every bit vulnerable.

“I now have a declaration, a sort of ignominious confession of my own to make: Despite the years of pedagogy and all my spiritual discipline, of late solitude was beginning to wear on my nerves. I craved the companionship of a single human being. Therefore, I’ve erred, begging your pardon now for all my unsolicited exuberance and for my however unintended, taken liberties (audacity) since our chanced meeting in this forlorn, desolate corner of the world.” He rejoiced when he again elicited the favorable response.

                                                                                                      ~

(END OF SECTION 2)

 

(MORE SURPRISING EPISODES WILL UNFOLD IN THE NEXT POST OF THE ORDEAL- SECTION  3)

 

THE ORDEAL - SECTION 1

 THE ORDEAL 

 SECTION 1

 

Jiense, rather Teuquob (her actual name), had been directed to a much safer Reaog town by Ensa. Things might have turned out quite different and perhaps a bit mundane if the quirks of fate hadn’t interfered and altered her intended course.

As fantastic as it may seem when she’d reached the key juncture on the road a stray fox suddenly appearing on the spot out of thin air spooked the horse.

The terrified steed bolted, neighing, reared its front legs up high in the air, then after fiercely stomping them on the ground, shod like a projectile in full gallop in an entirely different direction. All during this most grueling, catapulting ride, though violently rocked and tossed about, as mark of her horsemanship, she’d stayed in the saddle by stubbornly clinging onto the horse’s bridle (mane).  The steed completely drenched in sweat had finally tempered his stride to a canter but by then Teuquob had lost all sense of direction and hadn’t a clue as to her whereabouts. Halting the beast on a hilltop and craning her neck, her eager gaze meticulously surveyed the open perimeter far and wide as her eyes sought to decipher or to mark a single identifiable landscape, an outlet perhaps that might correctly steer them back to their original course (destination). But after a disappointing period (spell), she had to concede to her present dire predicament: that she was utterly, hopelessly lost! Her heart laden with despair then, she lowered her head and shrugged. “So be it.”

Dismounting, she allowed the steed a brief respite wherewith to graze on the available grass; then overriding any persistent trepidation, back in saddle, she intrepidly embarked on the unpremeditated, variant direction.

She would have had a serious cause for concern however, had she known that this elected course was the very one that she’d been gravely warned against, and that come what may, from hereon, her fate fraught with danger, would be hanging in the balance with every leg of the advance.  The serpentine (meandering) route after a treacherous descent, traversed through the most perilous, immense wetland (marsh) to eventually terminate at the base of the towering foothills. Even if she were to be extremely fortunate enough to have survived the quagmire, she would then be faced with the ordeal of the dreaded foothills skirting the massive ridges of a gargantuan mountain.

It’s hard to say which projected the greatest risk: the grave topography or the carnivorous, feral beasts that were said to have inhabited the foothills and the subsequent mountain range?

The “Five Brothers” as these vast hills were called: rested at the outskirts of an ascending most treacherous, most precipitous mountain.  The monumental mountain with its sheer ridges, sharper than sharpest blades had its four peaks perpetually crowned with the white incandescent clouds; while its invisible summit reached so high that it penetrated the lower reaches of the azure heavens; hence, the name Tejunar, meaning “the eyes of Heaven”. Tejunar was so densely forested with centuries old ancient trees that in parts the sun’s rays were completely blotted out. The entire mountain range, meanwhile, was claimed “to have been inhabited” by many guardian mountain spirits that to date discouraged all or any trespassers. The staunch belief had come about over the span of years, as far too many hardy souls, hunters with mettle, gallant man and adventurers, mercenaries or diehards had lost their lives and in a terrible way too, during their bold undertaking (enterprise). The resulting colorful folktales embellished with supernatural accounts and phantasmal exploits of apparitions, goblins or evil entities had increasingly (further) fed the imagination. And so, for a decade now, despite the apparent abundance of game on this mountain range, no sane man had ever dared to violate the foreboding, deemed sacred ground, leaving the cohabitant wild beasts to roam at will and (to multiply into still greater numbers.) flourish in natural abundance.

                                                                                       ~

This be opined unfortunate or not, fate determining the way, at dusk she’d inadvertently bypassed the ‘last chance’ alternate route, to find herself (facing) encountering an increasingly inhospitable territory, that no one would ever dare venture into. Be that as it may, and this being no small feat- day after day she’d forged on- ridden, galloped or trudged on foot as they both- she and the beast, negotiated the difficult, oftentimes treacherous terrain, to cover a great distance. Only at the conclusion of each grueling day’s ride, as the darkness encroached to blanket (veil) the Earth, the bone chilling air compounded by the thrashing winds, would compel her to seek some semblance of shelter. But mindful of the din of howling, roaring beasts’ outside, in that opportune cove or an abandoned cave, she would oftentimes lie there in fetal position nestled to the small campfire, clutching the long knife- a generous gift of Ensa’s, hardly getting a wink. Cold and weary, her head riddled with cobwebs at the crack of dawn, while the horse satisfied his hunger on the abundant tall (lush) grass, she would quickly nibble on the portion of her scant rations; then once again rising to the challenge, she would hop back in saddle and take on the next plausible course.

On this day, after a long spell of riding, this is strange! Umm… the queerest thing! Just then becoming aware, she abruptly halted the nervous steed’s advance. Leaning forward she gently stroked his mane to steady him, then sitting upright once more; she cocked her head to one side and listened… She listened long and hard.

Hmm, still nothing!

To her growing unease, as she looked around, she further became cognizant of the stark, deathly silence surrounding her. Not a single leaf stirred, no insect buzzed, no birds chirped, there was no roar or a howl of any kind, no semblance (apparent) of animal life at all. No natural hum, thud or echo or pitch except that of her own breathing and the steady sounds of her mount as his hoofs nervously trod (trampled) on the reverberating ground akin to a (much like a) rhythmic drumbeat. Cast in this surreal, all pervasive, eerie atmosphere, she moreover could not shake the sensation of being espied upon.

“But by whom, by what?” She could not rightly, guess; nor did the subsequently traversed distance in the wake (aftermath) of the treacherous descent had in any way altered the persistent reality or diminish in the least the ongoing strong sensation of being avidly observed and studied perhaps by an omnipresent, intensely intrusive pair of unseen eyes.

The curious impression eventually did abate (ceased) when, after a long, grueling stretch, both the rider and the horse had suddenly and completely become gobbled-up by the dense thicket- for they had then unwittingly entered the dreaded quagmire! From hence the meandering path overgrown with weeds and brambles with many undulating pitfalls made their slow advance more laborious. Meanwhile the moisture laden air, restrictive and foul smelling, increasingly oppressed her bronchial passages. Gasping, straining for that precious breath, she led the reluctant horse by the bridle, treading wearily on the seemingly endless, soggy, slimy, uneven ground. Guided only by intuition, they had more than once barely avoided several well-disguised pitfalls, camouflaged quicksand and cloaked abysmal pools; meanwhile on the solid patches, the entwining shrubs or the ground runners unfailingly raced at every leg of the advance to maliciously mar or hinder their dauntless progress.

Her heart had oftentimes leaped to her mouth when she encountered creepy, crawly, scaly, slithering, long tapering cylindrical forms that just as quickly disappeared into the pools of stagnant water, underbrush, or simply vanished in the cavities of the earth or rock.

 In this nightmarish labyrinth with innumerable days blending with infinite nights, her sanity riding on the precipice, she’d been further burdened with the exertion of trying to handle the frightened, wayward steed that oftentimes strove to just run away from it all. Mercifully however, thus far they’d been spared from the most prevalent danger:  of being bitten by any number of the four indigenous poisonous reptiles- for one bite would have been sufficient to render any being or a beast in an instantaneous comatose state that eventually resulted in a most painful, lingering death. As it were, she only had a comparable herb, a sort of antidote in that bundle of hers, capable of averting catastrophes from insects or amphibians. And so, too fearful to stop, they’d for many a day endlessly ploughed on in this incubus maze. But anxiety had not been the sole driving force behind it all; in fact, advance had been partly made possible because of a very useful herb also fortuitously included in that medicinal pouch of hers. When chewed, the specific plant-leaves (seeds) had endowed (furnished) Teuquob with a strong stamina, keen reflexes and heightened threshold for the pain- enabling her hence, to go far beyond her limits. But at the intermittent times when the effects of the drug waned or altogether wore off (especially at the end when there were no more to be had): the mental and physical downturn, the withdrawal symptoms took a terrible physical and mental toll on her. In anticipation of a worst scenario, to prevent her falling off the mount, she’d already, by way of ropes, (fastened) secured (lower part of) her body at the waist to the saddle. But as the time wore on, even with the compliment of likewise ingested herbs, her endurance notwithstanding, she’d subsequently suffered the partial loss of feeling and sensation in her limbs, arms and legs. Meanwhile numbed to the core, her mind had often wondered wildly, reeling through picturesque, fantastic imagery in the atmospheric surreal dream-state.

It was no small miracle indeed, when unexpectedly one day, nearing dusk, both rider and the mount had suddenly found themselves at the periphery, and so somewhat unscathed, emerged from this dangerous trammel and deadly snare. With resurgent zeal the mount had pushed forward then, till he’d reached a safer clearing. Coming to, she’d barely managed to untie the knots and letting go, slid off the horse plump collapsing on the hard ground. After an undetermined time, she’d regained full consciousness; delighted by the refreshing change from the traversed slimy, soggy base- arms outstretched, eyes closed shut, she’d nevertheless lain there perfectly still, with only her chest cavity slightly rising and falling, as she took in a more well-earned, elongated rest under the blanket of stars. Fortunately, in all that time the noble mount (horse) had never strayed too far, grazing quietly while dutifully watching over her.

Daylight anew had brought its own variable challenges; still, nothing comparable to the ordeals just endured.

 

                                                                   ~

 

Once more back on course, with the strange sense of urgency fueling, egging them on, with the incessant riding at times in full gallop, they’d inexorably covered the inhospitable, sparsely forested and undulated steppe that seemingly had no end in sight. A mere speck on this vast landscape, this sporadically forested expanse with its intermittent gorges and valleys rising and dipping- after going over the last hump, one day she’d looked on ahead to behold the rank, forebodingly magnificent foothills. The very ones she’d been warned against! She recollected well then, Ensa’s imparted knowledge, relayed mostly by way of diagrams: How the wide band of infamous foothills skirted the eastern side of the mountain range… beyond which lay a far steeper climb.

06

She sighed, anticipating grater hardships still but fought the feeling of trepidation like a talon that had anew gripped her heart.  For what other choice did she have? After a dismissive shrug, she exhaled a deep expunging breath. Oh well, with ‘Heaven’s’ help she’d survived thus far; if it’s so ordained, notwithstanding prevalent dangers, she’ll yet again persevere!

“There’s no turning back now, hope you’re up to it old-boy!” She leaned forward and whispered into the horse’s ear as she affectionately patted the side of his neck. Besides, she’d been drawn to the majestic mountain range for an added reason:

For a long time hence, even before she’d parted from Ensa’s care, she’d nurtured an inner desire, born out of her desperate circumstance- to encounter, to chance upon a place of worship, a monastery or a lonely recluse’s hut. The dizzying heights of the summits with their proximity to the Heavens would be an ideal setting for such.  She anticipated that, there, as in her country, the mountain range would be a beacon of sorts, propelling, attracting pious beings of various religious sects or hermits, all irrespectively seeking sublime sanctuary.  Indeed, this had been at the root of her tenacity, the driving force for overcoming such incredible odds.

                                                                ~

Succeeding days, with renewed zeal, she’d relentlessly forged on through the foothills towards the gargantuan mountain range, even though the precariously hung, meandering, scantily viable (feasible) path overgrown with climbers, brambles, thorns and loose boulders, with swift flowing streams presented a daunting challenge, at times quite impossible to traverse. Meanwhile her concentration was so intently focused on the task at hand that she’d in the interim had remained deliberately oblivious to the resurgent eerie atmosphere that had for quite some time now, for lack of a better word, dogged (plagued) her.

The all-encompassing silence had of course re-surfaced (revived) shortly after she’d emerged from the quagmire, and well before she’d found herself at the periphery of the foothills. Brushing this distraction aside, she’d intentionally abstained from questioning this bizarre happenstance; for inwardly she’d deemed it a blessing from “Heaven”, especially since enveloped rather cocooned, in this somewhat protective supernatural milieu- and so spared from the worldly concerns of danger from predatory beasts- she’d been able to better advance, and be at liberty to collect water from the occasional stream, gather berries, nuts, roots and other such edible foods for sustenance.

Leaving it to the caprice of “Nature”, the only manifest difficulty meanwhile, stemmed from the tempestuous weather. For even on a relatively good day, she could suddenly become drenched with an unexpected downpour or be engulfed in precipitate murk, mist or haze; or enshrouded in dust-clouds (dust particulate matter) by the ever vigilant, gusting, thrashing winds that completely obscured all visibility. As it were the bone chilling frigid temperatures of the evenings contrasted greatly with the dampness of the morning dews and the stifling heat of the noontime- this being still the summer season. To survive the frigid temperatures of the nights she would don over her man’s attire the so-called waterproofed (waxed) jacket that Ensa had provided. But periodically when even this seemed inadequate, she would further cover herself with branches laden with leaves or moss as she huddled her body in protective corners of abandoned caves or coves. And when her footwear overtime became too threadbare, adept in ways of surviving, she’d resourcefully used strips cut from her generous portions of clothing to reinforce the soles for an added protection.  Nevertheless, in this harsh environment the cruel elements still taking their toll, her lovely hands in due course had become painfully chaffed, as did her arms and legs that now bore countless scratches and cuts. Added to this asperity was the resurgent odd feeling (a hunch) of again being watched (observed) by a pair of unseen eyes that were neither human nor beast!

Periodically, she would even perceive an acute sense of being threatened by it; but in the absence of manifest danger, gradually she’d become more curious and less fearful of the entity that of which never straying too far persistently stalked her. And so, when darkness blanketed the earth, she took solace by dwelling on this unseen constant companion and even at times outwardly conversed with it before falling asleep.

Once at midday after consuming her meager rations of food she’d been resting quietly with her back leaned against an ancient tree when just then she spotted a strange, bizarre creature crouched on an overhead rock up ahead. As she’d blinked and stirred, it’d instantaneously disappeared into thin air. Nor had this been the only such sighting of the mysterious, clearly supernatural entity… She could not rightly say whether it’d happened in a dream state or not, but on another occasion, late in the evening she’d suddenly been startled awake by a sensation of being touched or groped.  Bent on confronting this intrusive, phantom companion, on the subsequent nights she’d feigned being asleep and duly waited; and sure enough, on the fourth or fifth turn, well into the night as she’d remained dormant, something resembling a fox, a furry creature of sorts, had warily (guardedly) drawn quite near to sniff then prod her. Assuming that this was not a dangerous apparition, she was about to spring forth to grab hold, when unfortunately, just then, the ever-vigilant steed raising quite a ruckus, thwarted her aim. Nor did she ever gain another such chance, as each night thence; the moment she’d laid her head down, an unnatural (unholy) deep slumber at once overtook her.

                                                                                                     ~

 (End of Section 1)

(MORE EXCITING EVENTS WILL UNFOLD IN THE NEXT POST OF THE ORDEAL -SECTION 2)

THE FISHRMAN'S PRIZE - PART 13

 

 

LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC-

THE FISHERMAN’S PRIZE

(SECTION 13)

 

Kaimu spent the rest of that night at the shed. The following morning, rising from his makeshift straw bedding before the crack of dawn, with disgruntled air he washed up, re-entered the cabin and without uttering so much as a word to anyone, plump sat himself at the table. After downing a sizable breakfast ‘as if nothing had happened’, his huge appetite not at all affected by the night's concerns, he then rose to leave for work.  All along he’d observed, on the sly, how his son Yoansu seething in ire, had hardly touched his food.

In fact, having gotten nowhere with his mother the night before, Yoansu was determined to have, if necessary, a violent confrontation with his father when they were both out at sea. Barring all else, he would threaten the old bastard in blatant terms and demand that he lay off his mother, to stop hurting her, or else!

 As father and son both earlier than usual headed out the door, Kaimu suddenly breaking the ice half-turned his head and grumbled his stern instructions to his wife. “We will be returning earlier today, get the supper ready, after which I plan to go see Zianko.”

 He’d detected a faint (dim) light at Zianko’s place couple of night’s prior and again late last night. This telltale sign had assured Kaimu of Zianko’s return. Hmm, but for reasons known only to him, he’s still lying low. Kaimu now mused.

Zianko, he’s back? Fine, the mongrel dog is defiant… For that I shall enjoy killing that churlish fiend in a special, slow way! Yoansu scowled inwardly, guessing only half the reason for his parent’s present discord (dissension).

Ensa meanwhile, with a hung head had remained unresponsive, silent, as though lost in her own private revere.

“Fine have it your way!” Kaimu’s disgruntled words had again fallen on deft ears.

She dejectedly looked up to see Kaimu with indifference shrugging his shoulders and then briskly giving his back to her. Her blank, dispassionate gaze followed the two, with Yoansu in tow, hastening their steps down the slope towards the crevice where the boat was moored (fastened). With a hateful snort she then turned and slammed the door shut behind her.

 

After the craft was brought out of the protective cove, Yoansu and Kaimu with coordinated effort was about to push it into the water when Kaimu, noting (sighting) from the corner of his eye through the thick morning mist at some distance Zianko’s vigorous advance, abruptly stayed his hand. Yoansu half turned his head to see what had momentarily distracted his father.

This is serendipitous. Things couldn’t have worked out any better than if I’d planned it myself! Kaimu musing beamed, his eyes glued on Zianko.

Zianko’s heart meanwhile had skipped a beat when he’d suddenly looked up straight on ahead and spotted at the far distance Yoansu’s dark countenance bent over working alongside his father. The difficult illicit deal had satisfactorily been completed late last night. At this pre-dawn hour expecting no chance encounter, Zianko had planned to retrieve a well-concealed vital bit of incriminating evidence from the cabin of his boat.  Ceasing this appropriate time he meant to destroy this crucible item; afterwards he’d (intended on) contrived to becoming scarce for another extended period, as he in the interim initiated yet another criminal but unlawfully profitable act. This unwelcome chance meeting left him in a terrible quandary (bind), for he was not yet ready for the dire confrontation with Yoansu; therefore, pretending he’d forgotten something, he’d abruptly turned about face and started heading in the opposite direction towards his dwelling.

You’re not getting away that easily! Kaimu bent on seizing this opportunity however devilishly grinned. “Greetings old mate!” Waving a hand, he bellowed after his pseudo friend, as he threw a side-glance at Yoansu.

Blast! Zianko cursed under his breath.  “Greetings,” Came next, his reluctant loud response. Facing unto the challenge, as Zianko stoically came forward, he threw a cautionary glimpse at Yoansu. “I see your son’s visiting you.”

“And he’s brought with him a wife.” Kaimu jubilantly blabbed (burst).

“You don’t say! Well congratulations!” Zianko feigned joy and gleefully nodded to Yoansu.  Yoansu chewed the corner of his lower lip to constrain his scorn; he was utterly disgusted by this ludicrously amicable, farce exchange.

“But seriously, how have you been, old friend?” Kaimu queried, goading both. “And it’s been so long since we shared a drink last? I was beginning to get tad worried about your prolonged absence?”

“I’m afraid, a queer, bad incidence kept me away.” Zianko with a dark countenance shrugged, purposely avoiding Yoansu’s burning gazes upon him.

“I won’t pry by asking what incidence, but now that you are here… I mean to ask you something.” Kaimu turning a blind eye to the blatant hostility between the other two, as if in afterthought, excitedly injected (put in).  Zianko held his breath in anticipation and waited while Kaimu cleared his throat with a phony cough.

I’m thoroughly enjoying this. Kaimu inwardly laughed. Look at him sweat, in dreaded fear that I would break the news now, in front of that cursed son of mine.

  “You see, I’d detected a light at your abode late last night and so, I’d planned to pay you a courtesy visit at the day’s end. I wished to confer with you further on the matter of our mutual interest, but hey, why don't you come by our place instead for as well, a sumptuous meal this evening. You’ll then have the opportunity to also meet my new daughter-in-law and make her acquaintance. She is a delightful sort. You’d certainly get along. And this time, thanks to Yoansu’s generous gift, I’ll be treating you to a choice brew…Ha, ha, ha.  Yes, do come, for we will certainly have an occasion to toast and celebrate after dinner!”

Yoansu looked away, inwardly fuming at the despicable charade being played out in front of him.

“Don't tell me there is a cause for an added celebration already?” Zianko smirked wryly, emboldened by the seeming sincerity of Kaimu.

   “Not one, but two.” Kaimu promised, as he for emphasis simultaneously held out two fingers before Zianko's face. “The matter of Souko might also be resolved.”

“I suppose I have to suffer the suspense till then.” Zianko tensing answered tautly. His eyes chancing on Yoansu’s, quickly averted those (them) - for that same moment an inexplicable fear and dread had clenched (gripped) his heart and very soul.

In the thralls (throes) of danger, he’d just then had noted that unmistakable ‘murderous craze’ in Yoansu’s pupils … That infamous look he knew all too well! That alone had conclusively now resolved his prior quandary. Without a serious means of support, why should he stick around to be brutally maimed and butchered? As for Jiense, well that delicacy could wait, till this more pressing matter had been indefinitely resolved!

I’ll doubt he’ll show up for the supper. Good riddance to bad rubbish! Kaimu mused again observing the hostile exchange on the sly and grimaced coldly.

“It’s settled then!” He reached over and (conclusively) elatedly padded Zianko on the shoulder; then having nothing further to say, he turned his attention back on his craft. Hopefully, Yoansu’s influence still carried some weight and no one dared intercept! …Anyhow, the dye (colorant) was cast; fate would now determine the rest.

 

     Observing for a spell Zianko’s hasty retreat, “Who the devil is Souko?”  Yoansu then abruptly turning- curtly demanded an answer from Kaimu. His question, however, went unheeded by his stubborn old father, who busied himself with the craft.

You can’t intimidate me, curd! Kaimu halted only, to in a grumble ask his son to belay the change of plan to Ensa.

“Do I look like your errand boy?” Yoansu scowled at Kaimu.

“Never mind then,” Kaimu shrugged, “she’ll manage.” And he looked away to hide the satisfactory grin on his lips.

    You’ll get yours all in good time old man! Yoansu inwardly seethed burrowing his contemptuous look (scornful ire) on his father’s back.  Meanwhile I’ll let you fatten the pig, just before the slaughter! Yoansu’s, venomous side-glance before boarding the craft, targeted the diminishing figure of Zianko. Despite the distance, (lengthy span,) it still sent icy chills down Zianko’s (latter’s) spine, and an involuntary shiver passed through him.

    ~ 

Ensa knew all too well that the men would not be back before the dusk fell upon the earth, which gave her the added advantage of time.  For once, she was thankful that her meddling daughter-in-law Tufan would not be rising before mid-morning. She was further relieved to see Zianko on horseback galloping into distance towards town not long after, with the amount of baggage enunciating (indicating, telltale sign, divulging) an extended leave. This, more than anything else, reaffirmed her belief that (‘fate’) ‘Heaven’ was on her side (and what’s more, favorably disposed to her willful aim).

Circumstances being ripe, she had to act now, and act decisively and swiftly… Or else, all would be lost!

Ensa without further due busied herself in the kitchen and quietly made a bundle containing necessary provisions, such as dried rations, baked buns, a pair of straw sandals, some medicinal herbs, a small (earthen) jug of water and anything else she deemed (determined) it would be useful.

Jiense in the interim had been entrusted with the cleanup of dishes and other such tidying up chores. At the conclusion of which, Ensa communicated her desire to Jiense that she should change back into a man’s attire. The feminine garment once neatly folded- was also added to the bundle.

With all the preparations done, Ensa with Jiense then in tow quietly left the cabin. Going to the shed- that was also the makeshift stables, Ensa using sign language first ascertained herself of the fact that Jiense could ride the horse. Ensa knew the loss of a mount would further enrage her husband and her son; but Jiense had to be given all the advantages, if she was to make good her escape.

In a somber mood she carefully fastened the bundle on the harness. The two leading the horse by the bridle then quietly left the premise.

                                                                ~                                                          

It so happened, in a previous night’s premonitory dream, Ensa’s ‘spirit guide’ had directed (instructed) her onto a precise path. Driven to desperation, but trusting absolutely in ‘Heaven’s protection’, Ensa with resolute steps now led the way.

Of course, Ensa and Jiense’s flight was covertly observed for quite a while by the ever watchful, unseen eyes of spies; meanwhile, Yoansu’s exceptional steed, procured at very high cost, was well known to all. However, such had been the notoriety of Yoansu, that friend or foe, even the contending rival gang members complied without question all these years to the standing order to lay off Ensa and Kaimu. Therefore, on this occasion despite the seeming oddity, though it had baffled many minds, no one dared to intercept her designated course.

Blissfully unaware of this fact, after quickly traversing the vast open, rather vulnerable span, by mid-morning Ensa and Jiense had reached the uneven, rocky, sparsely forested topography. At a specific point, they managed the safe crossing of the tributary of a thunderous, fast flowing river that eventually emptied into the sea, and ascended the section of a steep hill that had been recently stripped bare by a ferocious fire that had started by a lightening. Thankfully, the ensuing relentless rains of the last couple of months had well cooled the grounds. Nevertheless, the stifling air and the number of debris cluttering the uneven ground still took its toll on human and beast’s limbs, forcing their heart and lungs to further labor under the heavy strain. After a somewhat perilous decent, the stout pair reached a clearing whereupon following subsequent period of rest, that night taking advantage of the full-moon and the cloudless sky, they made good progress with their swift ride on a horseback.  At dawn when their path converged with open fields, Ensa from thereon took a particular care for them not to be detected by any prying, unseen eyes. At one point they even strayed from the regular paths and despite the prevalent danger of being permanently lost, guided by her hunches, they followed through instead, the maze of nature born (not man-made), lengthy, winding crevices and seemingly endless gorges that scarred the expansive landscape. This, in order to escape the anticipated invisible army of spies, messengers, carriers, smugglers, bootleggers or highwayman that, (she knew of from hearsay) as she’d been told, periodically thronged the other safer routes regardless of time of day/night or seasons.

At dusk, having successfully emerged from the dangerous labyrinth, they again rode for a while on horseback, the strong beast carrying them both through small-forested region till they reached a clearing.

This would be the parting point; from here on their path would diverge.

In a previous night’s dream all these steps, well cloaked in symbolism, had been prophesized to Ensa. Recognizing at once the specific topographical features, right down to the tree, she halted their advance. They sat in the alcove of a rock beside an ancient tree for a well-earned rest and an intake of food. Ahead lay, a vast span (band) of level ground with tall grass that endlessly stretched out before them; and then beyond it, there would be gently undulated hills that were sparsely populated with trees. Well sheltered from the elements, they spent the second night there. At dawn following morning, after breakfasting on their meager rations, with the aid of a stick Ensa drew a diagram, a sort of a map, conveying the following message to Jiense:

A small conciliation, Jiense at least, for the rest of the way, could proceed in full gallop on horseback, cutting across the fields, a sort of shortcut, without any serious hindrance from unlawful sorts, till she met up with the major thoroughfare. This well-traveled bustling route eventually would lead the way to more prosperous town of Reaog. It was a highly profitable commerce center wherewith reputedly, at least under the scrutiny of government officials, some measure of law and order was (observed) adhered. Perhaps chancing on kindhearted, civilized folks, Jiense would fare better than the other lawless towns’ closer by.  It was imperative however that Jiense steered the course to the left at the major junction, for straying to the right or even north might land her on a more dangerous, more treacherous course… that at some point led to the dreaded “Five brothers” foothills.

 Ensa then with sorrowful, tearful (tearstained) eyes, using sign language, as well as being vocal- tried to relay the rest of her intentions to Jiense.

“My dearest daughter,” she sobbed, “I’m being forced to abandon you at this desolate spot (stretch). Unfortunately, the time has come for us to part. I know that you stayed on with us out of perhaps misguided love and obligation to my especially undeserving husband. Oh, how I had hoped that you would be with us till the day I closed my eyes for the final time, but alas this was not to be.” She heaved a deep sigh. “This may seem a cruel recourse to you, but believe me, the precarious fate waiting for you back at home is far worse.  So please do not misjudge me by misinterpreting my well-intentioned reasons and think that I turned you out from lack of love or out of displeasure. Nothing could be further from the truth!”

Then after thoughtfully nodding, she added: “It's fortunate for us that you did not understand the basis of our row (quarrel) last night, for you would have hated us, perhaps even hated me, for I am powerless to stop my stubborn husband's selfish aim. He’s not a bad sort really; but sometimes he gets into his head such strange notions!”

She wiped away the tears cascading down her cheeks onto her sleeve and took in a deep breath, for she was too choked up to speak. Swallowing she tried to desist, the subsequent onrush of tears, then with the aid of serious of hand gestures continued in her mournful tone: “The journey ahead of you may prove perilous; still you are young and pliant, and you have survived comparable, even equivalent ordeal.  I am hopeful that ‘Heaven’ pitying you, would deliver you to a more propitious life.  May your ‘guiding spirit’ show you the way! I’m confident; an immaculate, pure, sweet being such as you will always have strong spiritual protection. Now, go with my blessings dearest and the blessings of ‘Heaven’.  It’s imperative you make good use of the remaining daylight. Spread a good distance between you and would-be pursuers. You must leave me now. I’ll do my best to cover your tracks. Go without delay!”

She urged Jiense thus, tears the size of pearls streaming down her cheeks.  She was soon overcome with grief.  She cupped her face and sobbed uncontrollably.  Jiense, also in tears, hugged Ensa back, which she loved like a real mother, for the last time!

Eventually, prying herself free from Jiense's tight embrace, Ensa helped Jiense mount the horse, and then struck the rump of the beast to make him go. As the steed galloped into the distance, she with a choking voice cried after Jiense.

 “May the ‘Nature spirits’ stand guard over you also my precious… go now and don't look back. I shall pray for you always! I shall always keep you close to my heart! I shall never, ever forget you!”

Ensa had remained rooted to the spot for an undetermined span with her gaze glued to the distance trailing the lone mounted figure appearing then disappearing amidst the thicket of tall, undulating vegetation. She’d looked on with sorrowful eyes and an anxious heart, until Jiense had appeared as little more than a speck on the horizon; then that too had disappeared behind a relatively, minor ridge.

                                       

       ~        

 

(THIS CONCLUDES CHAPTER ONE- THE FISHERMAN’S PRIZE, OF THE LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC.  STAY TUNED FOR THE SUBSEQUENT CHAPTER TWO - THE ORDEAL; WHEREWHICH, POSTS WILL RECOUNT THE MANFOLD, EXCITING ADVENURES.)

 

  

Call a Stag a Horse

Call a Stag a Horse

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(You can scroll down to read along.)

Once upon a time there was an old kingdom that had for many years enjoyed the wise rule of its Sovereigns. There came an unfortunate period when a young weak Prince, not particularly adept at ruling, ascended the throne. As it is with such rulers, a particularly power-hungry uncle became Regent to the new King and sought to seize power for himself before the boy King reached the age of maturity. There remained one snag in his plan of usurpation however, as many of the senior ministers remained loyal to the old Dynasty and would mount an effective opposition. To ensure his success the Uncle needed to ascertain with absolute confidence who among them were not his staunch supporters.

On the King’s birthday, last among many rare handsome gifts, the Uncle offered a very beautiful, stag and said” Your Majesty, I’m privileged to also present this rare stallion for your Highness’s riding pleasure.”

The King laughed good humouredly and said, “Your eyes must be failing you Uncle, for I see before me only a stag.”

At this point the Regent turned to address the many ministers that were present at Court, and with a grand gesture pointedly asked, “Good ministers, pray tell, is it a horse or a stag that you eyes behold?”

Some kept their silence, others, to please the Regent acceded readily that it was a beautiful stallion. Proud but unwise ones protested haughtily that it was a stag and further grumbled under their breath that the Regent had gone a bit too far this time with this shameless posturing.

In the days that followed those loyal, steadfast ministers who had dared to speak the truth were one by one demoted, framed, besmirched or libelled. Subsequently, all likely opponents were either publicly executed or quietly perished in the dungeons.

The young King, last of his line, was methodically driven to madness and then suicide, paving the way for the Uncle to seize the throne.

The End