THE FISHERMAN'S PRIZE - PART 12

 

LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC

THE FISHERMAN’S PRIZE

(SECTION 12)

 

   It was now nearing the end of the monotonously laborious third week, dreary without the companionship of Zianko, when Kaimu was suddenly awakened in dead of night with an urgent need to relieve himself. His eyelids leaden with sleep, he’d gone about doing his business as usual at the outdoor latrine, when suddenly his keen hearing (ears) picked up a faint, shuffling sound emanating from the direction of the storage shed. By now the storage shed had been turned into a makeshift barn, to provide adequate security and shelter for the highly prized commodity, the horse. 

Kaimu again cocked his ears and listened more intently, hoping it would be the wind but pegging it to be some intruder, men or a beast!  In all this time Zianko had been strangely absent. As one could never be sure of his activities or his cohorts! …Hmm! No mistaking it! “Blast... the horse…the money!” Kaimu growled.

He had flatly rejected the presumed ill-gotten sum. But Yoansu going behind his back had surreptitiously offered the money to Ensa and upon his insistence- with his coaching she’d hid it in the shed for future emergency. Of course, little or nothing escaped Kaimu’s scrutiny; nevertheless, weighing the alternative, he’d turned a blind eye to this deception.

“The scent of cash always draws the waywardly thieves!” Kaimu grumbled under his breath, as he for a moment or two considered fetching his son. But that might allow the culprit or culprits, time to finish the job, or worse, to escape with the booty! He therefore quickly armed himself with a staff, then made his swift, silent, bold advance towards it (the shed) in that pitch darkness, determined to confront this impending danger head on. With his adrenaline pumping he was prepared for the worst scenario.

As he neared the door, he noted that the shuffling noise had suddenly ceased, giving way now to panting, gasping sound.

“Crap!” No doubt about it, the money was being dug up!

 Kaimu’s hand poised to strike with a raised staff, he soundlessly (entered) glided into the shed. The place was shrouded in darkness except for the feint light at the far corner, behind towering pile of logs.  Owing to this scant lighting he could discern that the carefully laid out trap, in front, was not sprung. Nor were the ingeniously placed juxtaposed stacks of dried rations and other such supplies, in any way disturbed. The horse was uneasy but otherwise untouched! Hmm! Perhaps only after the procurement of the booty, the thief meant to make his get away with the beast all loaded up. But how did the culprit so skillfully evade all the pitfalls; furthermore, know just where to dig?

I’ll show him to mess with me!  When Kaimu with his adrenaline pumping veered the corner, the appalling scene that greeted his eyes simply took his breath away.

He was prepared for anything but this!

There before him stood not a ruffian intruder holding a shovel, but his own worthless son, naked to the waist, after his apparent groping, now about to totally disrobe and molest the unconscious, frail body of Jiense.

What happened after that was all but a blur to incensed Kaimu!

He’d seen red, and with the fierceness of a tiger, he’d pounced on Yoansu! There was a brief, but violent scuffle. Unfortunately, Yoansu was in far better shape and so owing to his youth, he easily bested Kaimu. Enraged as he was, Yoansu uncharacteristically, nevertheless, had constrained himself from dealing his father a death- blow. But this had not been an easy feat; for it had taken all his willpower and might, to curb his unbridle fury.

When Kaimu regained consciousness, he found himself tightly bound and gagged. His son squatted on the floor with his downcast gaze, head cupped between his hands, in deep remorseful ponder.

Kaimu’s first concern had been with Jiense. Despite his restraints, he managed a slight shift of his body to catch a glimpse of her. Thankfully, she lay there, as before, seemingly untouched, in the same shape and way when he’d interrupted Yoansu’s aim.

“Good, you’re conscious! Hope I didn’t rough you up too much, any broken bones?” Yoansu’s phony concern infuriated Kaimu. He struggled to free himself from his bonds, but without much success.

“Before I let you go, I want to talk to you.” Yoansu snorted dispassionately, wiping the wry grin from his face.

Seething in rage, Kaimu glared back at Yoansu. But unfortunately, his despicable son who towered over him with his strong physique was no longer a meek offspring.  He could no longer be made to yield to his will. When Yoansu in a single swift stroke cut the restraining gag across his mouth; hence, allowing him the chance to speak- “villainous scoundrel!” Kaimu barked. “What have you done to her?” He then growled, as he, same time indicated the unconscious Jiense with his chin.

“Nothing much, thanks to you!” Yoansu smirked. “Oh, you mean, how come she’s still unconscious, knocked out cold!” He then realizing the rest of his loaded question grimaced wryly. “I’ve just slipped in a potion (potent sleeping drug) to the pot of tea. That’s why all the womenfolk are dead to the world. Don’t worry, aside from a slight headache, a hangover, it’s deemed a relatively harmless one.”

“And I was unaffected, because I chose wine.” Kaimu grumbled, finishing Yoansu’s explanative.

“You are usually a sound sleeper, especially after consuming all that wine.” Yoansu shrugged. “Had you not interrupted, she would have been tugged back into her bed, never knowing the difference.”

“This the first attempt?” Kaimu had to ask.

“Yes, if you must know, her virtue is intact, for now that is!” Throwing his head back Yoansu laughed uproariously. It was a chilling, cynical laugh that reverberated in that icy air and sent shivers down Kaimu’s spine.

“What a vile, loathsome creature you are- how can you be of my flesh?” Kaimu spit at the floor, cursing the day of Yoansu’s birth. “Had he known, he would have…”

As if surmising this, Yoansu’s face just then became taut, “Now let there be no misunderstandings here.” With a voice full of venom, he barked at his father. “I don’t care piss all what you think of me anymore! And know this, I want her, and I mean to have her with or without your consent. Have I made myself clear?”

A dark shadow suddenly descending over his murderous countenance, he then added, “And don’t think I’m above killing you. For mother’s sake however, I am willing to spare your life. For her sake I am willing to negotiate the following terms. If, and that’s a big if, you keep your trap shut… If you give me your word, I shall not manhandle her (Jiense), and when the time is ripe, I’ll take her and make her legally, rightfully my spouse.”

“What about your present wife Tufan, cursed wretch?” Kaimu hissed.

“She’s not your problem. Besides, she’ll soon outlive her usefulness. And spare me your phony concern about her welfare. I know you despise her as much as I do.” Yoansu curtly responded.

“You are way over your head; Ckarban is not one to be trifled with!” Kaimu shook his head. Then with a downcast gaze he seriously pondered, but only for a spell, whether to reveal the dark secret he’d withheld from him all these years.

“Do we have a deal or not? Answer me now; or all bets are off!”

You deserve all you’ll get! Kaimu inwardly shirked any responsibility to this brazen son. Besides, the brute was unscrupulous and quite capable of fending for himself. Nevertheless, Kaimu knew that once his anger had subsided (passed), he might relent, and still do the right thing by telling him. As he was pressed to give response, seeing no way out, Kaimu, for the time being at least pretended to assent to Yoansu’s demand- this, if only for the sake of buying time.

In equitable exchange, Yoansu gave his, albeit reluctant word, to temporarily lay off Jiense.

Was he to be trusted? Would Yoansu honor his word? Not likely!

Hence, from that night forth, Kaimu prepared to sleep lightly, with one eye open, ears (pricked,) poised to detect any abnormal, deviant noise. And while on the outset he would seemingly be a willing co-conspirator to Yoansu’s sinister aim, inwardly still, Kaimu had already devised a plausible counter offensive of his own, to thwart Yoansu’s despicable goal.

 

                                                                                    ~

 

Rising at first light, Kaimu braved the excruciating pain and quickly donned his long-sleeved garb in effort to conceal his bruised body from the prying eyes of his wife. Facial lacerations and swollen lips, black or dark purple bruises on both Kaimu’s and Yoansu’s faces nevertheless still raised few eyebrows and drew some unwarranted criticism and questions from the womenfolk. No satisfactory explanation was ever given on that day or the next however, as both remained tightlipped about their apparent serious altercation (row,) sometime during the night, as the rest had soundly slept. But from hence, the adversarial stance, the infrequent cool exchange between father and son persisted, making Ensa’s heart and mind beset with worry. She hoped and prayed for the stubborn two’s relationship to mend.

A small comfort, well into the next week, the estrangement between Yoansu and Kaimu seemed to have eased off a little. Then one rainy night Kaimu though in recumbent position, desisting sleep had waited patiently for everyone to retire and to succumb to deep slumber. When not a sound stirred about the house, he nudged his wife awake and whispered to her, his supposed concerns.  “Ensa, this has been praying on my mind for quite a while. Please listen without interruption, for I have something to tell you regarding Jiense’s future.”

“This did not bode well! So that’s what’d been at the root of their discord (tiff).” With certain trepidation, Ensa nodded her assent. Then after rubbing her eyes propped up her pillow behind her back and sat upright. But Kaimu was too agitated to stay put; he abruptly threw the covers aside and rising, set at the edge of the bed. Carrying an authoritative tone now, he began his long tirade with a warning.

“Wife, I want no arguments from you!” Turning to face his wife, he tried to look affectionate. “I know that, during these past few months, you have grown quite fond of Jiense and being soft-hearted as you are, took her to your bosom as your very own daughter.  This would have suited me fine, except that; things did not turn out the way we’ve expected.  We are not wealthy folk, and admittedly I cannot support so many people.  I have decided hence, to remedy this problem well before Yoansu’s departure, the advent of autumn or the subsequent winter months. I’m not diminishing your importance by any means, but morally and officially I am the head of this household and therefore bear the sole responsibility for everyone’s welfare. Ultimately, it’s up to me to decide what’s best for this whole family. In all fairness, I’m giving you an advance notice of what’s to come. Naturally, as the sensible, good wife you are, I expect your full cooperation on this matter. Anything less would create discord and rock the harmonious stability of this household.” After an irritating moment’s silence, which he’d paced to and for, making sure his well-rehearsed words had sunk in deep, he sat down again and continued. “It is made clear to me that, Jiense cannot stay here indefinitely. Also, it would not do for us to keep for long one as young and beautiful as Jiense to tempt our son.  Better extinguish the kindling before it ignites into a huge bonfire and incinerates the whole house. Yoansu is hot-blooded young man and admittedly quite attractive to opposite sex. In their youthful fancy, he or she might one-day fall into temptation. You don’t want that on your conscience. Besides,” he then added quickly, holding out his hand to halt Ensa’s contrary arguments, “two young women under one roof always spell trouble. Sooner or later, if it has not already, it will create an unwarranted friction, turbulence between them. You want to be responsible for this kind of a marital discord?”  Then, pinning his face before his wife’s, with a firm conviction in his voice he added. “So, adopting her as a daughter is out of the question.  Besides, what kind of life or future can we give her? Our lot is worse than any of our neighbors.” He cleared his throat at this point. “Speaking of neighbors; that’s what I mean to do.”

Up until then Ensa with a lowered head, with certain resignation, had listened to what Kaimu had to say.  Some of what her husband had said, the points he’d made could not be refuted. How could Ensa in good conscience detain this precious jewel for her selfish reasons only? Jiense deserved to have a befitting husband and a good home of her own. But, when Kaimu made mention of a neighbor, even though he had momentarily withheld his name, her heart had skipped a beat and hairs on the back of her neck had stood on end. She held her breath in dire trepidation, hoping against hope that she’d be wrong, that it would not be the case.

“Since I have supported her all this time, affording her my protection, food and care- to simply let her go without exacting some form of compensation would not only be impractical but downright foolish. I am therefore within my right, to oblige her to do the right, proper thing!” Kaimu had said this with such forceful resolution… so adamantly, that she quaked in fear to hear the rest!  “And I don’t buy that story he fed me about Souko. I believe he contrived to have her all along… This way, it will be out in the open and he must do the right, honorable thing by her. So as to not have any more misunderstandings, I shall now say it plainly. Yes, I have decided on giving Jiense in lawful matrimony to our neighbor Zianko! He should, in return, bound by law, pay me a very generous dowry.”  He rubbed his hands in happy anticipation.

 

Up until then Ensa had held her tongue, remaining perfectly composed, with a compliant, lowered head. Now she sprung to her feet, her face flushed beet-red with fury. With contempt in her eyes, she bit her lower lip to stifle her scream, and then added mournfully. “Husband, I have lived with you all these years, more than half of my life span, sharing life's joys and sorrows with you, and still (up until) to this moment did not know what a heartless monster you were!  How could you even consider such a vile thing?  He is close to your age; he is old enough to be her father and his cruelty and coarseness is very well known!  The man is a beast!  A man that would kill his own wife, or have you forgotten Tizan, that lovely, spirited boy?  From the day he was forced to live with that brute, that poor boy had suffered horribly at Zianko's hand, all those beatings! How can you contemplate on giving this frail child to that fiend? How can you have the conscience to condemn Jiense, this poor fledgling to a lifetime of misery?  Better to kill me and take her yourself as a wife.  It would still be a preferable option, instead of that wicked monster you call friend!” She shook her head in utter dismay; however, being adamant in her opposition, desisted shedding any tears. She won't show any weakness, nor will she ever cave in to his unreasonable demand! Not now, not ever! In her staunch stance she’d resembled a lioness, one fiercely protecting her cup.

Kaimu was momentarily taken back by the degree of her defiant outburst. He’d broken the news to her as gently as he could. Besides, he was expecting a tearful, gentle protest, not this! He was so stunned that his mouth agape, for a spell he’d remained lost for words.  When eventually the shock wore off, he sprung back with an angry retort. “Woman, have you no lick of sense!  Have you no fear of death?  I’ve been both patient and indulgent of your unreasonable requirements thus far but if you continue to press me like this, one of these days, I would not be held responsible for my adverse actions.  What a way is that for a wife to behave?  And to suggest I wed her- a child I’ve come to consider and beholden to my heart as my daughter! Have you lost all sense, morality, and all shame?  How dare you so blatantly, so brazenly tarnish my good name, my honor, worst still, undermine me?  Is this any way for a filial wife to behave?” Then turning away, he aired his grievances to the religious idle in the room. “See what I must put up with? Why don’t you drill some good sense into her stubborn head? Instead of being malleable and easier to get along with, she is becoming instead more difficult, more antagonistic and quite unreasonable. Acting like a madwoman, imagine her getting such wild ideas into her head!” Sharply turning then to face her, “Shame, shame on you woman!” he barked and shook an accusatory finger at her.

 Incensed, he feared the loss of self-restraint in the face of her further defiant response. Abruptly veering, with curses on his lips, he ejected loudly. “But no, it's my fault. Lately I’ve been too indulgent, too considerate of your feelings. I should have just gone and done what I’d planned to do and then told you. This is what I get for my solicitude, my thoughtfulness!”

 

But Ensa’s rage had turned her heart to a stone, and she remained recalcitrant in her stance. She could not be persuaded or moved, no matter what!

Kaimu's anger now mounting, he grabbed her by the shoulders and violently shook her. “Why are you deliberately goading me to violence?”

 

 “Hush up; you want to wake up the whole house?” She snapped back.

 

“God, how you drive me mad!”  Rived with rage, as he held on, he sunk his fingernails into her flesh. Faced with more of her defiant words on his face, Kaimu was brought to the brink of insanity with seething ire. Being at his wit's end, he feared his frenzied, wrathful response.  “Enough!” he violently let go of her and turning, marched towards the door. But then he relented when he heard the muffled sobs of Ensa, and stayed there in front of the door, rooted to the spot for some time with his back to his wife.

He eventually took in a deep, patient breath and turning, went back to sit quietly by her side at the edge of the bed.  Using a placating tone, he tried once more to reason with her. “Wife, I thought we’re way past this type of discord. I’m sorry you can’t see my reasons, for they are plain as day. I wish you could believe me when I say I would never, ever do anything to hurt Jiense. All I’m trying to do is what’s best for everyone concerned. When I shared his company last, he complained to me bitterly how lonely he’d been and how terribly he missed the company of his late wife.  He sorely regrets his past ways. Lamenting heart-wrenchingly on another occasion, he wowed that if he’d ever got the chance, he would treat the next wife with due reverences. He swore an oath to Heaven, right before my eyes, asking the Gods to strike him dead and condemn him to eternal damnation should he fail to keep his promise. If anyone needed a spouse, it would be him! His place looks so unkempt and disorderly that it’s pathetic. And don’t forget how I owed him my life. This way I would repay my debt to him as well. Do you want me to remain under obligation forever? Besides, in this way she’ll continue to live nearby, and you can keep an eye on things. Now that he has learned his lesson, he would not repeat his past mistakes. I’ll make sure of that. She’ll be well cared for. You should be thanking me for taking your feelings into consideration. How unreasonable you are, wanting to keep her here and denying the girl, perhaps her only chance, of ever having a home of her own!”

“You cannot justify this heartless decision on pretext (under the guise) of concern, duty or rational opine. Spare me the rhetoric. It is what it is; your glib tongue cannot vilify your selfish cogitation, your greed!” Ensa snorted, remaining undeterred. 

Kaimu’s frustration again mounting, with a fury he slammed his fist over the night table, setting the clay jug filled with water tumbling down from the table and crashing onto the floor into countless pieces.

“Look what you’ve made me do! It’s hopeless trying to reason with you. You are beyond reproach. Why am I wasting my breath?” He sprang to his feet and with a huff, stormed out of the room. He craved the outside cool air to alleviate his blistering, tumultuous ire.

Ensa continued to curse her husband in his absence.  Grinding her teeth she then mused, how dare he be so callous as to collude with Zianko? Had Kaimu lost all sense? No, something else, something entirely more sinister had to be at stake here. But despite all her mental prodding, she failed to come up with even a single strand of clue. Nil, zip, there was nothing at all that she could latch onto for answers. When her mind reverted to the impending marriage of Jiense, she shivered involuntarily and bit her lower lip in utter despair. Oh, my poor, precious Jiense, she’ll not last a day in the hands of that vulgar, churlish, savage ruffian!  A beautiful girl such as her will be in the mercy of that tyrant: why, it will be nothing short of tragedy!  She shuddered anew at the thought (notion) of Jiense being molested night after night by that vile villain. Overcome with grief, angry tears in defiance to her will now began cascading down her cheeks.

Jiense’s sleeping quarters being near Ensa and Kaimu’s room, she’d been rudely awakened from her sound sleep sometime during the night by the unsettling row between (her benefactors) husband and wife. Since she had heard her name being mentioned alternatively, in anger then in appeal, she’d easily deduced at being at the heart of the problem. Her heart fluttered wildly with fright and concern when the muffled fighting intensified.  After she’d heard Kaimu storming angrily out of the cabin, Jiense rose from her bed, quietly crept into their room and seated herself beside Ensa.    

Ensa’s heart ached when she gazed at the angelic face of Jiense and looked into her tearful crystal blue eyes. “My poor Jiense.” she could not help but utter to herself amid sighs, “If you knew of the terrible fate that awaited you, you would leave this place this very night, run away and never ever look back!” Suddenly Ensa’s face became taut; she absently nodded, having right then and there made up her mind as to the only possible recourse.

When Yoansu’s inquisitive face appeared through the crack in the doorway, Ensa quickly (curtly) sent her son back to his room offering some lame excuse for the night’s disturbance. She’d been tempted for a spell to enlist his invaluable help; but quickly resolved instead, to bearing the sole responsibility for the daunting task.

She would not after all, not if she can help it, involve her beloved son in this sordid mess!

                                                                               

(END OF SECTION 12)

 

(STAY TUNED FOR AN APT RESOLUTION, TO THIS DREADFUL TROUBLE, WILL UNFOLD  IN THE NEXT FISHERMAN'S PRIZE POST - SECTION 13)

THE FISHERMAN'S PRIZE - PART 11

 

THE FISHERMAN’S PRIZE

(PART 11)

 

As it were, Jiense had endured all her hardships, and had remained with the kindly folks for this long, out of gratitude.  Now that the son had returned, she felt assured that her further stay would no longer be warranted, and so since last night she had begun considering her other options and a plausible way of communicating this desire to Ensa.  Naturally she wished to take her leave at the earliest opportunity, and as the sole survivor of her mother's clan, go seek a religious order in order to fulfill her obligation, her purpose for living.

 

That day, the new daughter-in-law did not rise from her bed 'till midday. 

The rest had generously let her sleep however long, understanding her need of it after such a lengthy and tiresome journey.  Ensa and Jiense quietly went about their chores, taking care not to raise any unnecessarily loud sounds that might awaken her.

Yoansu, putting aside his anger of the night before, for the sake of appearances and change of pace, had accompanied his father on his fishing trip.

When Tufan finally woke up, all the chores of the house had been already completed and Ensa and Jiense had gone on to weaving straw mats.  Tufan felt no shame or remorse for having slept so long and smiled condescendingly, hiding her not too flattering inner thoughts of how uncouth these people were. Inwardly she’d then asked, and where is that no good husband of mine? A fine way to start our connubial day with this boorish (ill-bred) lot; I suppose they have forgotten or forsaken the expected, customary conduct/rituals.  Least of which, we were supposed to have risen together, and as husband and wife, come out to bow to his parents, as mark of our esteem. Just as well, I could not feign convincingly, my supposed high regard. They are so petty, so inferior in status!  Ug, Pesky fisherman!

As it were, she’d always snubbed fisherman considering them to be worse than a lazy servant or a street sweeper (vendor).

 Had I known this…But he sure had pulled the wool over my eyes.  She puckered her lips in utter disdain. He better not entertain any notion of leaving me behind. Curse on you Ckarban! I curse the day your honeyed tongue and your filthy hands swayed me into seduction! I should have known better though… For that, I only have myself to blame.  

Fortunately, her dark, contemptuous thoughts had gone unheeded by the kindhearted Ensa, who’d rushed about trying to familiarize Tufan with her new, humble surroundings. 

 

At first Tufan improvising, had put on a grand show of wanting to be useful.  She continued to rise each morning, despite all her efforts, however, at a much later time than the rest, and this always after her claim of uncomfortable sleep.

Orphaned at an early age, Tufan had been brought up by paternal uncle Ckarban and his wife as one of their own. They had two other boys that at an early age had succumbed to illness and died. The sole surviving girl child, meanwhile, five years Tufan’s senior, had always been withdrawn in character, physically heavy-set (fat) and rather plain looking. In contrast, Tufan had very beautiful features, pearly white flawless complexion and a shapely feminine form.  Constant affirmation of her attractive physical attributes (during) in her growing years had made her rather conceited, self-centered and expectant of grander things in life.  She had always envisioned herself as the future spouse of a distinguished man, one that was handsome, rich and powerful, living amidst luxury in stately mansions.  Not even in her wildest imagination or worst nightmare would she have ever conceived of such a terrible turn, of being reduced to living under such impoverished conditions. 

Even though she’d been led to believe, by Yoansu, that this visit was temporary -no more than a month- each passing day seemed to her an increasingly, insufferably prolonged. In her growing resentment, she doubted she would last out the second week, much less a month! What’s more, she’d found the prevalent (overwhelming) stench of raw fish quite unbearable. Using her pregnancy as a particular crutch, she’d complained bitterly and endlessly about her discomforts to Ensa. But no matter what the poor woman did, it always fell short of appeasing Tufan. In the interim Tufan had understood all too well the invisible power, the sway the mother held over her husband and son; hence, Tufan (set out to learn from this and) shamelessly engaged Ensa in manipulating, forcing Yoansu into submission on matters that were important to her. Nor did she stop there. Recognizing Ensa’s partiality to Jiense, Tufan then moved to sway her affections, by showing consideration and kindness to Jiense. Jiense’s appearance from the start- going about the place as she did, in plain clothes, the ones Ensa could spare- had been an eyesore to Tufan; it irritated, rather offended her highly developed fashion sense. 

Jiense is close to my build (dress size) ...  So, why not? Embarking on an idea one day, after a frenzied search through her trousseau, she recovered the least favored, poorest quality dress she could find.  Folding it anew and holding it gingerly as if it was a treasured item, in front of the men Tufan made a special presentation of it to Ensa. Needless to say, ensuing days, she shamelessly reaped the benefits of this supposed generous gesture.

After wearing plain, coarse clothes for so long, Jiense had also been delighted to once more be able to don on her body this ultra feminine dress, even though it fell far short of the quality of the ones her lowest-status’ servants had worn. Of course, Jiense looked absolutely enchanting in it. It was not long, therefore, before Tufan’s success and pleasure (soured and) turned into dismay. 

It came about when she caught sight of her husband's odd behavior: his lingering, unmistakably lustful gazes on Jiense- a most inappropriate look for a supposed relation! (And she should know!)

 Up until then Yoansu had covertly admired Jiense for her beauty despite the loose, coarse garments; now clad in feminine attire, she seemed to him the very vision of loveliness. Unable to mask his inner hankering hence, his unbridled passionate gazes now and then would be glued on Jiense. Periodically the Illicit, profligate thoughts, the wanton desire would make his heart palpitate wildly and his face would flush.

And even when away, Jiense’s glorious countenance still hovered before his mind’s eye, intensifying the yearning in his heart for that eventual intimate union.

The uninhibited passion, the ungovernable signs of lust in her husband, directed so poignantly at Jiense further consternated Tufan. As Tufan held all fishermen, therefore Yoansu and his family in such disdain, she could not rule out an incestuous (liaison) relationship.

Quirks of fate; was she going to be victimized by an incestuous liaison yet again? Only this time the shoe was on the other foot- namely, her husband! But just where would that leave her?

Fueled by resentment, there arose in the privacy of their room therefore, numerous rows between husband and wife. Eventually, some details of these arguments, curses and threats leaked to outside, eroding away the harmony and peace of this humble abode.

Yoansu’s inattentiveness towards Tufan, and in contrast, his obvious affections towards Jiense, had also greatly troubled (consternated) Kaimu. Nevertheless, in absence of any credible proof, as Yoansu had not made any outward immoral moves, he could not be openly reproached. Each time Tufan had acted up, Ensa meanwhile had excused her sins, in one breath. Totally blinded to Yoansu’s failings, deeming the cause to be “a difficulty of pregnancy or homesickness”, Ensa showed great forbearance for Tufan's misbehavior. She urged her son to be more attentive to his wife, to show patience and tolerance for her antics; as well, to give in occasionally to her demands, however unreasonable, to ease this transition period. “Once the baby is born, you'll see the change,” she promised on Tufan's behalf, “things will then be greatly improved between you two.”

Was Ensa really that naive, that oblivious to what was going on with her son? Or was it that prejudiced by mother’s love, she chose to believe in fallacy?

As it were, he could do no wrong in her eyes, nor could she perceive him in any other light, besides the divine one he supposedly dwelled in. This, even after the episode of that odd incident:

In the small hours of the night, Ensa had suddenly been awakened with a strange feeling gripping her heart. Intuition guiding her to the door, she’d then quietly peeked at outside of her room and to her great surprise saw Yoansu standing there motionless before the straw curtain. The makeshift curtain that concealed Jiense’s sleeping quarters! Nonplussed (baffled), she’d watched him slowly raising the curtain up.

Once more Ensa’s heart had palpitated wildly with an inexplicable feeling of dread. She nevertheless could not conceive any notion of impropriety on her son’s part, and so had reasserted: There must be a perfectly good reason, a viable explanation for this. Could it be that my boy has acquired a sleepwalking condition? My poor boy, all this trouble with his wife, must be wearing on his nerves!

Thinking that Kaimu would not be as understanding, she’d but a moment looked away (turned her head) to first reassure herself of her husband’s deep slumber; when she reverted her gaze back on her beloved son, to her relief she saw Yoansu quietly retracing his footsteps back to his room.

But the following night Ensa was again disturbed from her sleep. She was reawakened in the early hours by the barely discernible, light footsteps treading (creeping) across the living room floor that subsequently once more halted before the straw curtain.

Determined to get to the bottom of this, Ensa at once sprang (jumped out of) from her warm bed and quietly darted to outside, barefoot and all, paying no heed to the bone chilling, coarse floorboards. Astonishingly, she saw Yoansu, again in front of the straw curtain, clasping in one hand an oil lamp and poised perfectly still as though lost in deep ponder (thought).

He was inwardly debating how best to proceed with minimal disturbance. 

On the previous night, when he’d rolled up the curtain and observed this breathtaking beauty in abandoned sleep: it had so stirred him, so aroused his wanton passion that, he’d feared he would lose all self-control, act vilely and so risk exposure. The best recourse, therefore, had been to (withdraw quickly) make a hasty retreat.

After some consideration and precautionary measures- such as drugging (slipping the sleeping potion into) her cup earlier this evening, to ensure a satisfactory turn- he’d made his bold advance. Halting before the curtain now he inhaled (withdrew) an impatient deep breath exhaling it slowly. Soon he would be having his way with her as she slept; granted, it would not be as pleasurable or as satisfactory, but it simplified matters.

He certainly didn’t think of it as rape.

No, this was different…It was merely a sweet seduction.  A premature sampling, a compensatory dawn-payment of an impending marital relationship; and later still, when things had played out their course, she would certainly succumb to his passion and willingly surrender herself without least abandon, to his lustful and loving embraces. Was she not of flesh and blood? Why should he, a willing precipitant or recipient, delay the course of nature? In all probability she’d been already drawn to him, he saw the way she coyly, bashfully looked at him. She was demure because his detestable wife Tufan stood in the way.  He was offering her nothing more than a solace. Hmm! Yet he hesitated. No, this would not do. Besides, how can he surrender himself to total abandon and enjoy unbridled passion with such shackles?

Hence, he’d lingered before the straw curtain in an ambiguous feel, torn between wanton desire and that unwanted sentiment of reason that had suddenly crept into his brain to shatter his earlier resolve.

Now, seeing his mother coming towards him, all other concerns brushed aside, he had to think fast of a plausible excuse. But not finding a ready pretext, he improvised (under pseudo solicitousness) solicitously. “Oh, did I wake you? I’m so sorry mom! Feeling somewhat parched, I wanted to get some water!”

“But son,” Ensa drawing nearer still, ejected in a whisper, “The clay urn is no longer kept there.  Don’t you remember? It’s now by the door to enable me easier access from the cistern.”

“Yes of course, how foolish of me.” Yoansu answered hurriedly taking hold of his faculties quickly and walking over to the spot helped him-self to the ladle of water. Refreshing water trickled down from the corners of his mouth, down to his chin and wetted his nightshirt.  He welcomed this cool relief. When he had his fill, he again quietly apologized to his mother for disturbing her, for waking her up needlessly. And after bidding her goodnight, he quickly withdrew into his room.  Once inside, his hands clasped into a tight fist, he leaned the back of his head against the door and heaved an exasperated deep sigh. Phew, that was close! Thank goodness his shrewd wife was still fast asleep!

He sure was parched. Ensa meanwhile carried this thought all the way back to her room.  In fact, she’d been quite relieved to learn that the cause had not been a sleepwalking disorder. Thirst, that’s all it was! But from now on I must remember to leave a small jug of water on his night table. She made a mental note to herself as she reclined her head gently on the pillow. She’d just closed her eyes, when Kaimu, who had his back to her until then, without turning, asked in a grumble.

“What’s he been up to now, in this ungodly hour?”

“Sash, go back to sleep. The poor boy was just thirsty, that’s all.”

“I’ll bet! In a pig’s eye,” Kaimu scoffed under his breath and remained wide-awake for quite some time, his head riddled with grievous, dark concerns.

So, the wild boar was on the prowl!

Yoansu, having come this close to being found out, decided on the temporary postponement of his objective. On the surface everything seemed placidly normal and boringly ordinary; it had to be so, since Kaimu had remained vigilant from then on and watched Yoansu like a hawk! Meanwhile, each subsequent night Yoansu had to drink a convincing measure of the water from the small jug, which his doting mother had unfailingly supplied.

 

(END OF Part 11)

 

(MORE EXCITING EVENTS WILL UNFOLD IN THE NEXT FISHERMAN’S PRIZE POST-    PART 12)

FISHERMAN'S PRIZE - ( PART 10)

 

THE FISHERMAN’S PRIZE

(SECTION 10)

 

 

Yoansu seeing that it would be useless to protest, consented to reveal to his father Kaimu, at least the partial truth. “You are quite right father. Tufan is not as I’d previously claimed. She is the niece of a powerful gang boss. I’m ashamed to admit it, but I’d often gambled; and this part of my story was true, on one such occasion, I’d won big! This expectantly landed me in immense trouble. Fortunately, I had the foresight to conceal large chunk of the dosh in a good place. Nevertheless, I was shadowed from that day forth. Even though I took particular care, still, I was abducted and brought before the top boss. I was tortured to reveal the whereabouts of the remainder of the cash. A sudden, unexpected intervention, rather, intrusion by her, somewhat saved my life. From then on, I felt indebted to her. I was to learn later; she’d taken a fancy to me the moment she’d laid her eyes on me. As she’d always brought trouble to the boss’s family, they were glad to be rid of her in this respectable fashion. Behind my back, she struck a deal with her uncle, and I was forced into marrying her; or else lose my life!  The concealed (kept) portion of the sum that I’d won at gambling, was duly confiscated as her dowry.”

“Nevertheless, at the time braving Crime boss’s wrath, I struck a bargain (of my own) with him. I will slave away as a waiter or sort in one of the gambling houses, till the full amount is reached; meanwhile I would be allowed to keep a small portion of it. I’ve brought this amount with me to give it to you so that you can provide a bit more comfortable life for mother.”

“Under the circumstances, I want nothing further to do with her or the money!” Kaimu grumbled clenching a fist. He wanted to add, “you too”, but with admirable reserve, he held his tongue.

“But you can’t be serious!” Yoansu feigned dismay. “I can’t just abandon her…Not till the child is born. Please father; go along with me on this. Besides, it would break mother’s heart, if she knew.”

“Won’t this worthless girl spill the beans about her origins anyhow?” Kaimu looked away, somewhat distracted.

“Not if mom distrusts her. Mom will soon find out for herself, how Tufan is an unreliable shrew and a perpetual liar. Then nothing she claims will ever be taken seriously or believed.” Again, he reasserted. “And soon as I’ve repaid my debt, I shall return, I promise, and be contented to be a fisherman like you. Please father, don’t turn your back on me in my hour of need!” Yoansu with his hidden agenda, utilizing his cunning tongue and half–truths, had striven to buy time.

Kaimu sadly shook his head. “He’d heard enough!”

“What do you take me for, an utter, complete imbecile, spinning one yarn after another? I wasn’t born yesterday, you know!” Then lowering his head, he exhaled and grumbled to himself. “What is it about me that everyone thinks they can pull the wool over my eyes? I have no proof, but I know Zianko had arranged the destruction of my boat, to get in on good terms with me.” Then suddenly looked up to ask his baffled, aghast son, “Are you in some ways responsible for the beating he got?”

Yoansu saw no reason to deny it and nodded in the affirmative.

“You are in with a gang?”

Again, Yoansu nodded in assent.  “The old man wasn’t such a fool after all.”

He looked at Kaimu now with renewed respect, his heart somewhat tinged with shame.

 “This crime boss; does he have a name?” Looking away, Kaimu abruptly asked.

Yoansu saw no reason in withholding the name. This far removed from town Kaimu could not possibly make any connection; so, he readily volunteered “Ckarban Kuso”.

“You would have been better off to have relinquished the entire sum of money and have nothing further to do with him or her!” Kaimu’s darkened countenance and his dismal, curt response intrigued Yoansu. What do you know of him? Yoansu wanted to query, but then on second thought, Nee! He’s bluffing! He knows nothing of the latter’s notoriety. He quickly dismissed any such possibility.

Yoansu had of course no way of knowing that once, in the distant past, way before he was born, the vermin Ckarban had been Kaimu’s sworn blood brother. A deep dark secret, so heinous however, had permanently severed the link. To date it had kept the two ardent foes far apart, and would to, till eternity.

“Tufan’s true nature came to light soon enough, but by then,” In contrast to Kaimu, Yoansu’s focus had once more reverted to the present dilemma.  “I’d already been seduced by her, and she claimed she was with child.” Yoansu playing the martyr now fell silent and with his head lowered, he half turned to avoid (averted) looking at his father.

“You are playing with fire!” Kaimu balefully shook his head. And how!!! Even though there was a serious need to forewarn Yoansu about pernicious Ckarban, Kaimu could not bring himself to rehash the malignant past. His mind cast adrift; eventually he’d resolved himself to do the right thing: he would arm Yoansu with the grievous, unpalatable facts, but at a time just before his departure.

In silence with both hands clasped behind his back, Kaimu had walked on. Then abruptly halting his steps at one point, he turned and anew questioned his son.  “I assume you hold a powerful position in that illegal organization, because of her.”

“No need to insult me. Give me some credit!” Yoansu irately protested, no longer surprised by his father’s wit.

“I shall see to it your mom will never know.” After that awkward silence, Kaimu finally promised.

“Thank you, father, you don’t know what this means to me…I mean, having you on my side for once!” Yoansu ejected heartily and rushed to embrace him, but Kaimu (jerked back) pulled away.  “I’m only doing this for your mother.” Kaimu askance looked at his son. “She would never survive the heartbreak. However, I expect you to be gone soon. Two- or three-weeks tops. Make some credible excuse, as you are so good at it. And take your harlot with you!”

As Kaimu turned his back on Yoansu, he’d in sorrow, mumbled to himself.
“ You’re not him; you’ll never be him. I’ve lost a worthy son and now I must contend with the likes of him!”

Yoansu gritted his teeth in sheer rage, wanting to pounce on Kaimu and to strike him dead right there and then. How dare he? After all he’d done for him. How dare he?

“Damn you, old man!” He shouted (cursed) after him. “Damn you to Hell!”

He wanted to shout also, to really hurt Kaimu. You think he died by accident. You are a fool indeed! But he held his tongue. This secret he would take to his grave; however much the old man provoked him.

                                                                                    ~

Kaimu returning to the bedroom plumped his laden, weary body onto the bed. Burdened with exhaustion, resurfaced past grievances, his son’s willful deception, all of it taking its toll on his already tormented soul- the moment his head touched the pillow, he collapsed into a very disturbed asleep.

Meanwhile Yoansu had lingered outside the shed while longer, fuming, cursing the old man under his breath.

Hungry for blood, he then headed straight for that cursed Zianko’s abode.

Earlier in the day Zianko from his spy hole had observed the dreaded son’s arrival. Fearful of further repercussions, he’d quickly packed his gear, intending (of mind) to depart the premises soon as the illicit deal had gone through, in two- or three-day’s time. That night, he’d also observed the distant apparent altercation between father and son (Kaimu and Yoansu). He took a hasty retreat when he saw Yoansu, after his father’s departure, heading his way and quickly hid outside (out of harm’s way).

Yoansu now with certain ferocity pounded on Zianko’s door in the dead of night. When no answer was forthcoming, he violently kicked the door in. Like a madman he rushed in to pulverize Zianko. But it soon became apparent to him that the wretch had flown the coop. (nest).  In his rage he turned things upside down, destroyed anything that came his way, wasted furniture…then his fury partially spent, he left the premise in tatters and retraced his steps back home.

 

                                                                ~

 

After some passage of time, assured that it was safe for him to do so, Zianko had returned to his abode to assess the damage. The destruction that greeted his eyes infuriated him beyond measure. Wowing revenge he secured the door shut, quickly collected a few scattered, salvageable belongings and tried to restore some sort of order to the place. As bad as things were, he was still (bound) constrained to staying put, because of an expected shipment of contraband goods that was to arrive in a few days’ time. What galled him more is that from here on he would be forced to living in these premises in concealment and in dire fear of further repercussions from Yoansu!

 

         As it were, after his expanded physical exercise that night, Yoansu still seething in anger and spoiling for a fight, had reluctantly returned to his room. His blood boiling, ready for the next kill, he was nevertheless relieved, to find his crafty wife fast asleep.

In truth, Tufan, not wishing for another ugly confrontation (altercation) had faked the deep sleep. Going along with this pretense, with a wry grimace, Yoansu quickly doffed his clothes and quietly climbed into bed.  As sleep averted him however, for a long time he simply lay there on his back, without motion, with his hands tucked behind his head, his stern, empty gaze affixed on the barely visible ceiling beam.  Once his anger had subsided and his breathing became more regular, shallower, his head then begun to swim in whirls of fanciful clouds, carrying notions of how it would be like to share an intimate love exchange with one as beautiful as Jiense. 

She was truly the most ravishing female he had ever laid eyes on.  He’d been drawn to her enchanting face, those elongated lashes and luscious lips from the moment of first glance.  Though she’d lacked all the false trappings of beauty, like makeup, fine garments, and jewels, moreover, her hair had been plainly held back in a single ponytail, not even in braids- she’d still looked the very vision of loveliness. It seemed to him now that Tufan’s beauty totally paled in comparison, even when the latter was all done up and adorned in her fineries.  But how can she ever hope to compete with a Goddess? To be fair, Jiense’s natural beauty put-to-shame even the sparkles of the rarest jewels or the stars in the cloudless night.

Why should I wait? What am I afraid of? He asked himself anew, as he with burning intensity yearned to possess the one that had been denied to him. But he knew why and pursing his lips submitted begrudgingly to his reasoning mind which every time trounced (trampled) his fervent emotions. He habitually lay awake, this time, with fond vapidity, when suddenly a gyrate of mood overtook him. The number one boss, Ckarban, was a licentious man; if he’d ever caught sight of Jiense, he would not rest till he possessed her. Or worst still, he would lock her up in one of his highly profitable brothels and whenever he so desired, subject her to his avers sexual perversions. To his chagrin, Yoansu had not amassed the necessary manpower to blatantly mount an opposition. Thus far he had achieved (secured) some secret alliances but lacked adequate means (arms) for an eventual successful campaign; and besides, timing was all wrong… It would be more prudent for him, to presently maintain this farce, a subordinate role and the matrimonial relationship, that allowed him the additional inroads. Meanwhile this remote region was an ideal spot for concealing such a beauty, till it became ripe time to pluck… hmmm…but not if Kaimu had set his heart on contrary course. What to do? Hmm! And he mustn’t forget that mongrel dog, Zianko!

He’d turned and tossed the rest of the night hence, beset with such worries, his brain all the while concocting, devising many plausible courses of action and exploring various alternatives. When eventually through exhaustion, sleep overtook him; his subconscious state was then (tormented) harassed with a pernicious nightmare:

 In it Yoansu saw himself as a giant glittering, gilded colored fish, caught in his father's net along with the other basic kind, his father’s face changing alternately into Ckarban, then into Kaimu’s- Yoansu thrashing about and gasping for air, but with no hope, no means of escape!

Destined for his parent’s skillet, Yoansu felt the excruciating pain of his scales being shaved-off, felt the searing ache of being cut up and his guts being violently, mercilessly ripped right out of him by his own mother’s hand.  He suffered the agonizing pangs of being skewered then fried in oil, of being singed (seared) to the marrow!       Finally, placed on big platter, his curses and howls went unheeded by all the gang that was seated at the table. With such eagerness, such gusto they, again turning back into his family, had all rushed in to consume him. He heard his wife then exclaiming in pleasure at the exquisite taste, as she took great chunks of his flesh into her mouth and with such relish, her molars chewed him to a pulp. As she swallowed, he began the frightful descent into the dismal pit of her stomach! NOOOO!

 

At this point, while trying to escape this terrible predicament, he’d woken up with a start.  He lay in bed, his heart wildly palpitating, his face drenched in pearls of perspiration, when just then he heard the crowing of the cock outside. The very cock he’d brought over, as one of the presents.  His wife, who had slept soundly without stirring through his nightmarish ordeal and anguish, now also missed his resentful, contemptuous glare and the grinding of his teeth as he wished for her absence.

 

Kaimu also awakened by the cock's crowing, found his head throbbing with pain.

“What the blazes! What’s making that entire racket?” Springing from his bed, with curses on his lips, he rushed outside improperly clad, half-naked. Grabbing hold of a broom, he (threw) hurled it with violent force at the “blasted fowl”.  The bulk of broom’s handle meeting its mark head on; the cock let out a sharp cry swaggered and fell, plump unconscious to the ground.

 

Ensa, an early riser, was rather engaged, as she remained humped over a stove, busily preparing breakfast at the kitchen area with Jiense.

“If the blasted bird (fowl) is dead,” Kaimu addressed his wife on his return, grumbling, “cook it for lunch.” Then not waiting for her response, he veered to fetch himself some water. In his haste he nearly bumped headlong into Jiense.

Back in his room, as he hastily dressed himself, he sighed repeatedly, murmuring to himself: “What a pity, I wish my elder son had lived; they would have made such a handsome pair; meanwhile Yoansu has gotten exactly what he deserves. The problem is my wife is greatly attached to Jiense; how can I make her understand that the girl, however likeable, can’t stay with us indefinitely…Not with so many wolves on the prowl.”

 

(END OF SECTION 10)

 

(MORE SURPRISES AWAITS THE READER IN THE NEXT EXCITING THE FISHERMAN'S PRIZE POST 11)

THE FISHERMAN'S PRIZE - PART 9

 

THE FISHERMAN’S PRIZE

(SECTION 9)

                                                                                   

 

After several gulps, Kaimu then expressed his approval of the choice wine.  “This brew you've brought is the best I've tasted.  It's very good.  It's so, so smooth and so, so tasty.”  Again, he downed some more and licked his lips afterwards, showing his pleasure.

His drinking sessions with Zianko had strengthened his resilience and immured him to last out regardless of the quantity consumed.  “We must have Zianko over one evening and show off our superior brew.” 

Yoansu took his father's words as jest and so nodded his head in assent without inquiry.  Kaimu, pleased, settled back in his chair and explained. “As you well know son, she is no relative of ours. In fact, she’s not even a native of this country. That is why she could not engage in any conversation. She can hear and speak well enough, in her own strange dialogue. We only said she was a relation, to placate Tufan, to place your wife's mind at ease.”  Then he snickered, “If we had told her the truth, she might not have slept a wink at all, this night.”  He took another gulp and passed it down his throat with a gurgle. “And no, despite what you may think, I’m far too old to consider such goings on.” Then after a pause, he pitted his harsh gaze on his son and said, “The fact is, Jiense was kept here for the sole purpose of (mating with you) becoming your wife...How were we to know you would return with one of your own choosing?  This is a clear case of one bride too many.”

The son's eyes opened wide as he inwardly reveled in this unexpected good fortune.  Looking in Jiense’s direction he gasped, then feigning ignorance, he exclaimed in amazement. “But, father, we’ve always lacked the funds for the procurement of any wife for me, foreign or otherwise.  We didn't have it when Elder Brother wanted to marry.  I’m aware of the imposed hardships here and scarcity of such a find. Surely, she did not fall from the sky.” Yoansu shook his head.

 As if you didn’t know or couldn’t guess!  Kaimu mused, with a wry smile. Then softening his gaze, he responded. “What you don't understand son, is that she cost us not a single Zukon.  She came to us free, yes, free as a bird! Almost as good as if she’d fallen from the sky.” He then reasserted, seeing utter disbelief in Yoansu’s eyes.

“But how can one as beautiful as she…?” Yoansu’s curiosity had now peaked.

    “Not snatched up by all the ruffians on the prowl?” Kaimu finished the sentence for Yoansu. “Heaven only knows.” Kaimu shrugged, as if indifferently; then after a brief respite, he consented. “Very well, I shall not prolong the suspense any longer.”  Oh, but he so enjoyed the act of stringing along a captive audience.

Yoansu thence (thus) listened with rapt attention to the incredible accounts of Kaimu’s story:

“Well son, it was a strange day, a day like no other, when I picked up my net and headed out to sea in my boat.”  Now it was his turn to embellish the facts of his story, albeit an actual one.  Kaimu studied his son’s face carefully as he told in detail the dangers he’d faced. His heart sank, reaffirming his belief, when he saw no sign of surprise, concern or compassion in that well-polished, yet hardened face.

“I hauled the body aboard my small craft.  Since the body was still warm and there was a slight movement of the head, I knew that she was still among the living.  By now you see, I had found out that he was she.  Rowing to shore I carried her back home and left her in the care of your mother.  Not wishing to waste the day, I returned to sea once more and that night returned with a bountiful catch.  You can imagine my happiness at having struck out lucky, twice in one day.”

 Even though his mind raced with millions of questions, Yoansu dared not interrupt, lest his father (with his foul temper) halted and left him hanging in a quandary with the unanswered facts.

 “We nursed her back to life and looked after her all this time, in happy anticipation of your safe return.  We looked forward to surprising you with this lucky chance; instead, you had your own surprise for us.  Little did we think you would return with a wife of your own?”  Slamming his hand on the table, in his somewhat drunken state, he cursed the gods of the sea and with undecipherable mumble aired his heart’s grievances.  After which he gulped down the rest of the wine in the cup.  The son again hurriedly filled it to the brim as he’d been doing all night.  After a thoughtful silence, which Kaimu remained perfectly still his chin cupped in his left hand, he then concluded, “Well, that changes everything. Still, since we spent our time and food on her...Hmm.”

Now that he knew all the facts, Yoansu remained most unwilling to let go of this golden opportunity.  In fact, he would like nothing better than to dispose of his tiresome old wife and indulge in pleasure with this tender shoot of a rare find.

Failing that, he would have them both.

Nevertheless, Yoansu knew that it would be a daunting task to convince his upright mother to accept this sort of bigamous relationship. On the other hand, he might have a better chance with this old relic, as Kaimu was an ordinary, ignoble man and hence, more open to such notions.

 In that awkward repose, he’d therefore had pondered on his persuasive arguments:

  Yes, bigamy was unlawful in Wenjenkun, but who abided by laws here, in this remote corner, with no real enforcement to speak of?  Besides, provided one had the monetary means, one could always maintain a mistress or have illicit liaisons (consort) with servants.  After all, was it not men’s prerogative to fulfill their destinies by appeasing their ferocious sexual appetites that ultimately perpetuated the human species and ensured their domination of the world? As many held this viewpoint, no one had paid any genuine heed to this unnatural and unrealistic mockery of a law in the doctrines that imposed quixotic monogamy on the citizens of a civilized society. As proof throughout the land, polygamy had secretly, under the very noses of authorities, had flourished (thrived) even amongst (with) didactic, well-established families. Emperor himself was rumored to have had numerous illicit relations with those noble young ladies, ones in the close company of the Empress.  Meanwhile, houses of pleasure flourished, feeding the egos of lesser, indigent classes. 

As his own wife was in a family way and he meant to leave her to Ensa’s competent care anyhow, why not take Jiense back to town with him as his mistress, a companion of sorts, to ward off temptations from other illicit women (prostitutes). What could be better than that, as it would certainly keep him on the righteous course?”

 “Why can't I have her as my mistress?” Instead, Yoansu suddenly proposed (blurted out).  “I can take Jiense back to the city with me and leave Tufan, as it would be difficult for her in her family way, to adjust to a new lifestyle with you guys and to moreover in future, take good care of you both in your old age. My resourceful wife has a big mouth; everyone back in town will think Jiense’s a relative. Meanwhile, if anything happened to my wife, I would have a perfectly good one for (as) a standby.”

 “You would like that, wouldn’t you?” Kaimu frowned. “Supposed virtuous son; what about the feelings and needs of your pregnant wife… you would forsake her as callously as that?” He growled.

Yoansu bowed his head feigning shame. It wasn’t going to be that easy convincing this old coot!

Kaimu relented; striving for peace, he smiled mischievously and nodded.

“Then again, Jiense is quite a beauty, how can I blame you. Nevertheless, you must constrain your wayward (capricious) love interests, for woman, your wife, can always sense these things.”

Ensa, who had strained her ears and had heard only the last part of what had been said, now seething in anger, bolted to her feet (jumped up in a big hurry) and burst out of the room. Shaking an accusing finger to her husband and then to her son, she scoffed.

 “The pair of you is shameless, talking of her as if she was a tender piece of fish or meat, ready to be consumed!” 

Turning to her husband in a more accusatory tone, she snarled. “You’re the worst. Just because you saved her life and gave her shelter, that doesn’t give you the right to act as if you owned her. She is a living, breathing, independent human being…not some animal to do with as you liked! I thought we’d kept her because we had a good reason to, and that even now, we would strive to do the right thing for her.  But you two...” Then, turning again to face her son, “And you!  Have you no shame?  A brand-new wife in there, already with a child and you talk of having another.  I thought I had brought you up right, but now I am disappointed in you.  Too bad...”

“Hush up, woman!” Kaimu stormed at her.  “Who asked your opinion? This does not concern you.  Now get out of here before I really lose my temper and give you a taste of this.” He showed a threatening clenched fist in the air. And don't think your son being here is going to change anything.”

“Go ahead, I dare you to!” Ensa stuck her chest out in defiance.  

The son at this point hastily interjected to placate his father, meanwhile asking his mother to please stop her goading diatribe and withdraw quietly from this highly volatile scene (the room).  As she with hurtful countenance, reluctantly, seeing sense, turned to go, Kaimu quite incensed still, bellowed after her. “You are always meddling in my affairs and stirring up trouble! What business is it of yours, what I do with her?” Then turning to face his son, he grumbled.  “See what I have to put up with, day in and day out?”

Yoansu nodded; for how else he was to respond.

 Emboldened by this, Kaimu shouted after Ensa once more. “If you continue to anger me, I may dispose of you altogether and take her as my wife instead.  Or better still, give her to Zianko!” Then in that moment being reminded of something, he reverted (turned) his attention back on Yoansu. “That’s right, the rogue knows all about her! The scoundrel wormed it out of me one night during our drinking bout.”

Just one more reason to, (dispose) off that cur, Yoansu mused coldly.

 

Now who could sleep through that entire racket?  But one, that should have understood and taken due caution, could not tell what was being said, while the new bride, Tufan had only woken up midway from her deep slumber, missing most of it, except for the last part. Nevertheless, Kaimu's abusive words to his wife had been enough to cause disgust and a bit of a fright in Tufan. From their last exchange, she now concluded that the old man must have been carrying on impure thoughts or perhaps an illicit affair with someone, and having been confronted with it by his wife, it had spurred his outrage. At this point Tufan had cursed her ill fate, for allowing her to be part of such an ignoble, vulgar family.  She cursed her uncle for deliberately withholding this fact from her and she cursed herself for being so completely beguiled (duped) by one with such base, humble origins.  She would have been more mortified had she heard all that had been said and came to know the truth about Jiense.

Subsequently, as things had quieted down, the already exhausted women folk had succumbed to an uneasy sleep.   In that seeming quietude, Yoansu with his duplicitous design had deliberately plied his father with added drinks.

Precipitately, Kaimu refusing next refill, proposed: “The atmosphere is quite stifling in here, why don’t we go outside for a bit of fresh air.”

Finding this most agreeable, Yoansu nodded in concurrence.

And so, they’d walked quietly for some time under the blanket of night’s sky, their seemingly capricious steps leading them towards the shed and even going beyond it, as far as safety had allowed.

Satisfied that they had gone beyond everyone’s hearing range- Kaimu then abruptly halting grabbed hold of Yoansu’s arm and brusquely pulled him aside. Cocking (tilting) his head to one side, he spoke in a stern voice: “If you’ve had your fill of games son, I would like to now delve into the truth…You still know what that is, right?” Then curtly turning away grumbled under his breath. “I really should be furious with him, far more than I am, for his arrogance and his audacity!”

Yoansu was too amazed, to see his father after the volume (amount) of snifter (alcoholic drink, consumption) being still in full faculty of his senses, to take any offense. “Father, back in there, I did not mean what I said about the girl….” He started to say, but Kaimu put a hand over his son’s mouth to stop him. “Save your breath!” He ejected tersely. “But there’s another matter that warrants clarification.” He then added sternly, as he deliberately turned his back to his son and walked brusquely away. 

Now Kaimu had excellent night vision, but Yoansu stumbled over a rock or two as he hastily rushed to catch up with him. Thank Heaven the moon periodically peeped from the clouds to provide him with some illumination.

“Father, please stop!” The urgency of the latter’s voice brought Kaimu to a reluctant halt. With a wry smile he waited rooted to the spot for his son to reach him.

“Back inside, your claims as to how you’d acquired your wife. That was quite a tale you told son.”

When Yoansu tried to protest, showing indignation in face, Kaimu raised his hand to stop him. “Don’t insult my intelligence!” He scoffed. “I’m not as gullible as your mother. Her love for you is so great; she’ll swallow any lie you utter, always believing in the best of you. I went along, not wishing to dishearten her. But honestly, who is she, your wife? Would you, also care to tell me the real account of how you came to amass your apparent wealth? Gambling, teahouses… feed that chum to the sharks!” Kaimu snarled.

 

(END OF SECTION 9)

 

                                                                                  

(BE SURE TO CHECK BACK AND LEARN, WHAT FACTS WILL BE REVEALED IN NEXT POST OF THE FISHERMAN’S PRIZE, SECTION 10)

                                                                                     ~

 

 

 

THE FISHERMAN'S PRIZE - (PART 8)

 

Tufan Wugan

THE FISHERMAN’S PRIZE
(SECTION 8)

 

Overlooking his father’s antics, Yoansu with a renewed zeal resumed his narrative- by now being most anxious also, in reaching the end.  “The next two days in happy anticipation I waited for Mr. Wugan to pay me back, or rather to fail to pay me back, the sum he’d borrowed.  I had already quit my job and moved to a more comfortable lodging. Now having won enough money, in a week or two I planned to start my own business, a lucrative, competitive teahouse that would be frequented by all. Once the money came pouring in, I planned to begin preparations for the journey home.”

He’s such a scoundrel! Kaimu inwardly scoffed. Things should be that easy.

“You mean you have an established business there… you haven’t come home to stay for good?” Ensa morosely interrupted her son.

“I shall stay a while mom. And I promise I’ll frequent you both more often from now on. But I can make a much better living in town. Besides, this way I can also provide for you both all the comforts (extra amenities) of life that up until now you’ve been denied.”

“I meant no offense dad.” Yoansu had quickly added that last part in a placating tone, to allay (pacify, stem) Kaimu’s rising fury.

“We don’t care about material wealth son.” Ensa’s eyes in gratitude had nevertheless, glistened (brimmed) with tears. “I’d rather not miss you so much!”

“Don’t worry mom.” Yoansu added quickly. “My wife and your future grandson shall stay with you both to help you along with your chores. This is a better environment for them. And it will give me cause for frequent visits. Later still, to lessen the inconvenience, I shall engage workman to construct few more additions to this place.” Yoansu promised magnanimously.

 “Now, having gotten ahead of myself, let me see…. I’ll have to retrace some steps in the story.” Yoansu smiled sheepishly at his father.

“Story, hmm, a rather an apt choice of word!” Kaimu mumbled to himself as he grimaced back. Fortunately, no one had paid any heed to his wry skepticism.

 “Well anyhow, I’d left word at my old lodgings as to where I could be reached in case Mr. Yuksul Wugan called.  When it was well past the promised time, and he had not shown up, I decided to call on him instead.  I had asked the whereabouts of his home at the time I had loaned him the money.  Gaining some directions, I found the place without much difficulty.  The house was quite large and stately. Chief Stuart ushered me in. I threaded timidly with my rough sandals over the plush carpet that lined the floors. His wife greeted me at the reception room with a rather cold demeanor.

 Now the interior of the room was most handsomely decorated and it told of finer days when they must have lived in lap of luxury with countless servants running about on errands.  Presently all I could see was but a few servants. After the customary fragrant tea, I was led into an interior studio, where I saw the master of the house, Mr. Yuksul Wugan, resting on a large, canopied sofa.  I found him to be quite sickly in appearance, as though he had aged still more over time.  There was a strained relationship between him and his wife; she obviously did not approve of my being there.  When he had lost badly that night, returning home broken-hearted, he’d confessed to his wife his wager with me.   I later learned that they had argued the whole length of the night and most of the following day over this concern.  She threatened to leave him for good and, by taking his daughter with her, planned to go live with her parents.  How dare he be so heartless as to sell his daughter, for this was exactly what he had done?  She would desert him and let him stew in his own juice for this grievous wrongdoing. By no means was the wagered daughter their only offspring.  They had three others married off to lofty citizens, living in other parts of the country.  This shame would mar them also… A real loss of face this would bring to them all!”

The old Wugan had never done anything like this before.  That night he had lost his head, certain of his good fortune as augured (prophesied) by a soothsayer (seer), that he had made the bet.  Now feeling ever so foolish, he’d been stricken with remorse, especially since he had failed to raise the funds through other means.  A man of his stature, with a certain reputation to uphold, felt obliged to keeping his end of the bargain.  Hence, he’d begged his wife's forgiveness and understanding; swore never to gamble again, then with deep regret asked her to prepare their daughter, on the sure anticipation of my call. Meanwhile the shame and all that emotional turmoil taking its toll on him, he’d fallen ill. When his daughter was told of part of the truth and her imminent departure, she’d wailed bitterly and tried to kill herself. Fortunately, her mother had prevented her from doing so.”

Yoansu oozed in confidence. He knew that the elaborate narrative, with endless intriguing details would eliminate any doubt or wayward questions from their minds.

Expectantly, as the night wore on, with so much information crammed into their brains, the honest, simple folks appeared completely and utterly duped.

At least she comes from a good home. Ensa reflected.  Our grandson is bound to be someone worthy, as long as he does not take after his maternal grandfather.

No wonder she looked down on us.  A highborn girl like that will remain discontented and hard to please.  I’m afraid she will never fit in.

“Now father,” Yoansu continued, “If it were not for the considerable sum that I had loaned him, I would have forgotten about the debt.  Still, moved by sympathy to his affliction, I offered to give him an extension in time, saying he could pay me back at a future date, but he would not hear of it, and did not allow any extension.  Though, as he spoke, he did throw a cautionary look over his shoulder to assure himself his wife had not returned prematurely with the daughter to overhear what was being discussed.”  As if being reminded, Yoansu too, rose from his seat and quietly peeped into their room to reassure himself that his wife had slept through it all.  When he returned, he caught the last bit of his father's words to Ensa, “What a spineless old man, being afraid of a wife!  I suppose men go soft in the towns.”

“Not so loud,” Yoansu hurriedly cautioned him.  Pointing to the room he said, “She might wake up and overhear.”

“Have you gone soft too?” Kaimu sternly admonished his son.  “So, what if she hears me?”  Then looking away mused. “Or do you fear her exposing you!”

Yoansu, in an effort to silence Kaimu, quickly resumed his story, “As I was saying, he did not allow me to spare him from his obligation.  Now, father, I am not a heartless man, and I prepared myself to offer still more insistence on forgetting that part of the deal and deferring payment of cash till later date. But just at that moment her mother had brought her in, and I saw that she was indeed a rare beauty.  She at once captured my heart and stole all contrary words from my mouth.”

At this point Yoansu had paused for a spell as he’d lowered his head in thoughtful air. “Anyway, after seeing her I’d aborted any notion (thought) of calling off the deal.  I could not bring myself to spurn this chance which had come my way.  Still, to rest in good conscience, being brought up so decently by you both, I made the proposal of doing the right thing by her.  This granted, I then formally asked permission from the father to be united with her in lawful matrimony.  Proposing that the loaned sum be considered instead as her dowry; in so doing, I saved them face.  Mr. Yuksul Wugan was so pleased that he readily assented.”

“A shrewd move,” Kaimu interjected, “he had you save his family's honor and still kept his money.”

“But father, I was the fortunate one,” Yoansu countered, “for how else I could have secured myself such a beautiful wife from an affluent and well-respected family?”

“Respectable families do not gamble away their daughters!” Kaimu brusquely responded. 

Yoansu, for the sake of preserving peace, curtailed his disparaging remarks.

The silence was broken by Ensa’s timely intercession. “You did the right thing, my son.  Imagine, so far from home and you still behaved so admirably.  I am very proud of you.”  She had brought him up right. He had moral integrity.  She took a great chunk of that credit and wore it on her breastplate like a medal.

Kaimu glared at his incurably deluded idealistic wife.

Yoansu could not make sense of his father’s indifference. “I had to do the proper thing for them.” He therefore reasserted. “And yes, in case you’re wondering, I had more than enough funds to cover the wedding formalities and travel expenses.”

In an unbroken silence Ensa nodded her approval.  Kaimu looked away, burrowing his angry gaze on the mounted religious plague.

“On that happiest day of my life, they’d staged a generous feast for the ‘Wedding

 Ceremony’ and invited well over thousand guests.” Meanwhile Yoansu had continued. “It was a magnificent affair (social event), one that far exceeded my dreams. I only wished you two could have been there.”

How did they find the means; where did they procure all that money for such an elaborate extravaganza? Kaimu inwardly chewed on the words. Bah! Loopholes, there’s too many loopholes in your story! At this point Kaimu’s mind straying: he pondered on the question of her respectability. Who was she really? What’s with the charade?

 “After the ceremony when we formally became husband and wife, I continued to stay with them until she was fit for the journey.” Yoansu continued, oblivious to Kaimu's inner resentment.

Fit, as in pregnant? Kaimu scoffed under his breath.

“Some of the finer gifts: the silk embroidered cloth, the jeweled hairpin, one of the wines, as well as the sweets are all gifts from the respected ‘in-laws’.  They were very generous to me during my stay with them and never made me feel out of sorts.  Overlooking my crude manners and coarse habits they made me feel as though I belonged to their class (station in life).  I confess, Tufan's mother was still a bit stand-offish towards me,” Yoansu's voice became softer here, “but Mr, Wugan was most understanding and kind. I’d stayed there you see, for Tufan’s sake.” He then quickly added.

At this point Kaimu’s mounting skepticism had turned into sheer rage, and had it not been for Ensa’s timely intercession, directing their attention to the lateness of the hour, Kaimu would have definitely blown his top. 

Kaimu was incensed, having had heard enough prevarication for one night.  Nodding his assent, he rose to go, but Yoansu had no intention of going to sleep and insisted that he was not tired in the least.  He tugged at his father's sleeve to stop him from leaving and said, “Father, let mother go to bed, but let us spend a little more time together.   I've just come home after a long absence and we still have so much ground to cover, we can always sleep later.”  Hurriedly he then poured still more wine into Kaimu's cup and offered it respectfully with both hands in an attempt to coerce him to stay.  He was counting on the fact that Kaimu had the gift of gab when with male companions, whereas he remained closemouthed with females.

He wants something! Now disposed to the idea of staying, Kaimu ordered his wife to stop pestering him and go to bed by herself, adding that he wished to converse with his son in private for a while longer, without a constant harassment (interruption) from a meddling old woman. 

And so, against her better judgment, Ensa was forced to retire.  Yet despite her fatigue she lay awake in bed, waiting for her husband to join her.

Yoansu had an ulterior motive in detaining his father and keeping him from sleep this night. With Ensa out of the way now, Yoansu felt freer to speak his mind. The whole secrecy about Jiense had aroused his curiosity; herbal pouch cast aside, after renewed bouts of drinking and pleasant exchanges of facts, Yoansu artfully then steered the conversation to the point of interest.

“Now, father,” he began with his amiable tone. “I have told you my story in detail; won't you tell me yours?  I am most anxious to learn more about her.”  Pointing at (cocking his head in the direction of) the space behind the straw curtain, he asked in repetition, without a pause. “How did she come by? How is it that all through the night she’s not uttered a single word? She seems dumbfounded when we speak yet anyone can see she is intelligent enough to comprehend mother’s sign language.  Is she partially handicapped?” For what purpose has she been kept? Then again, she is attractive enough and appears most docile…”

Get your mind out of the gutter! Kaimu wanted to bark at his son but lowered his head instead and said coldly, “Your wife must be anxious for you to join her. Why stay away?

 “She is probably fast asleep,” Yoansu protested. “But I will not be, not unless you resolve this mystery.  Please father let me in on the secret!”

 Let me string you along for a change and see how you like it. After his prolonged silence, pretending insobriety (intoxication) and a soft spot for his son, he supposedly reluctantly gave his consent.  “Very well, then...But first let us have some more wine, I feel parched this very night.” 

Kaimu had also wished to test his son’s stamina.

 

(END OF SECTION 8)