13- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR - SECTION 5

                                                                                   

Fradel Rurik Korvald still cursing, grabbed Lord Asger by the neck and with a demigod’s strength held him up high. There he kept Asger effortlessly suspended in midair for a while, as his vice grip tightened increasingly on the flesh and bone. It nearly choked the very life out of Asger, reducing him to a near unconscious state.

Demonic power had to be behind Fradel’s superhuman strength. Asger knew nonetheless he must at all costs, defeat this dastardly villain! He could not have lived in vain all those years and endured what he had, just to have failed in the end. He could not disappoint Nevetsecnuac whom he loved like a son, his father Lord Wutenzar Thuxur Marrog Zhon, his mother Lady Anselma Marrog Zhon (who was the elder sister of 7^th Prince Shon- Nevetsecnuac’s father) and his beloved Sovereign Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir! His mind obstinately hence defied the present reality that his weighed chances were less than zero (nil) and time was fast running out, with the effects of the poison coursing through his veins, soon would be by any means, irreversible!

 

01- FRADEL RURIK KORVALD ( ACTUALLY EGIL VIGGORIES) -JP 333

   

“Are you hard of hearing old man? I said, “"Look at me! Look hard or I swear I will pluck out your contemptible eyes!”  Outraged Fradel spitting vile and venom, violently shook Asger who was still hanging, suspended in midair.

When this too, did not get the desired effect- that single sign, that glimmer of recognition still missing from Asger, Fradel ground his teeth then growled: “Are you daft; look more carefully, cur! You know very well who I am! The potion has not affected your eyes, your cognitive abilities, only your speech!”

Asger all this time artfully regulating his vitals, with his empty gaze (blank stare) on Fradel had only paid half heed to the ravings of the deranged adversary; when suddenly Fradel’s plaguing assertions: “Why have you betrayed me, for that despicable Prince Nevetsecnuac? You cannot deny my existence!” had all at once rushed into Asger’s mind, when) to awaken him to an unconceivable reality.

But how was that possible? Asger’s eyes widened in shock, for despite his flat rejection of this implausible notion he was still taken aback when a tiny bud (of elucidation) sprouted and then took root in his brain.

 

02- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON  (98)JP

“Ivar!”  A silent, heart wrenching cry that same instant pierced Asger’s soul. Could any less be expected of that contemptable Zakhertan? Asger closed his eyes in utter resignation and deep dismay.

 

When Ivar noted the sequential miens (expressions) of surprise, of remorse and then of pity registering in Asger’s pupils, he grunted, “I spit on your conscience! Save your abject pity for yourself!”  With a contemptuous snort, he then hurled Asger violently back at the far wall. Asger’s back crashed against the hardwood panels (holding up the inner wall), and badly bruised. He slid to the floor, scattering his medicine flasks all about him.

 

Going over, Ivar grabbed Asger by the collar and growled, “You have so callously.

(hardheartedly) disregarded the kinship laws of any civilization! You have severed the basis, the root which the trunk, branches and the fruit, future generations of your line, had counted on. You have forsaken, abandoned your own flesh and blood, and sacrificed everything for what, for honor and glory? Selfish beast... Your loyalty should have been first to your own offspring, not your maternal cousin’s whelp. You forsook your ancestor's, Zhon’s legacy to perpetuate that of Valamir? Thanks to you, the person, the name Ivar is forever dead and gone; but as you have already construed (deduced), Egil Viggoaries lives on… the most feared, most powerful (Internal Security) Minister in Wenjenkun.” Egil waited for it all to sink in.

 

All at once the (relayed) prior intelligence about Dark Eunuch’s copious, ignominious, vile acts had flashed by in Asger’s brain, burdening his heart and tormenting his already guilt-ridden soul! The intense pain that oppressed him was evident in his eyes. But Egil Viggoaries’s abhorrence of Asger, not in the slightest bit assuaged, he gnashed his teeth and promised: “The ultimate vengeance shall be mine; and even in the nether world you will not escape my wrath. I shall launch a grievance against you in Hell, be sure of that! Your despicable soul will never be allowed to dwell in Heaven or be able to reunite with your beloved Sovereign!”  He scornfully hissed, his face inches from Asger’s, then rising to his feet. He slowly walked away.

His back to Asger, head lowered; (in contemplative pose) he lapsed into thoughtful silence for a spell that however seemed more like an eternity to both.

At first when the truth had been revealed (exposed, laid bare), Egil had felt as though an enormous weight, one that had burdened him, tormented his soul his entire life, had been lifted from his shoulders; but briefly after that, it had lost its (effect) potency. Egil pensively shook his head. Why didn’t he feel any better?

Damn him! Gnashing his teeth, Egil swore inwardly. Asger, his contemptible father (retribution at hand,) was now at his mercy, but mercy he would not have. He (Egil) would make Asger pay and pay dearly!

Bitterness and resentment still gnawing at his innards; Egil’s battered soul demanded more than retribution and vengeance! But what else was there?

03- EGIL VIGGORIES 2- JP

Egil reeled about and took a long hard look at Asger, trying to gauge the character, the weak points of this contemptible Lord, his besotted (begotten) father! Then, as if absentminded he turned and studied his own image reflected on the metal shield hanging by the far wall. The answer just then came to him; Egil smirked venomously. This body may not be his usual self, but it was whole, and eh, it will do. He shrugged a moment later, rebounding with that sinister aim; Fradel had, after all, the requisite (adequate) parts.

Hmm…though, not just yet. Checking his exuberance and lust, he half turned and glared at Asger. “In answer to your silent query, yes, I have but temporarily appropriated (seized, commandeered, arrogated) Fradel’s body.”  He sneered, then extrapolated, “as luck would have it. Five months prior, my path had crossed with a strange entity known as Samnuk (Cassar), which happens to be the ward of an Immortal Dwengzur. Samnuk, if you must know, is a rock spirit. Long story short, I tricked this Samnuk and acquired these positively useful aptitudes. One being that I could usurp (assume) another form against their will, after simply invoking the “Shapeshift Hex.”

 

04- DARK EUNUCH EGIL VIGGORIES ENCOUNTERS SAMNUK

Suddenly Asger recalling his own encounter with an unusual being, hope sprung anew in his heart. Having a retentive memory, he remembered all too well the incantation, of Zandar’s parting gift along with his cautionary words, “to never use “Ewbinuko Hex,” till, and only once at future time (eventuality), when it would be the only thing that would deliver him from dire harm. Unfortunately, his internal invoking of the Hex was abruptly interrupted and then his mind was compelled (directed), through supernatural means, to focus only on Egil’s spoken words: “As you can now attest to it, I have also acquired superhuman strength, hearing, healing, and agility.” 

Egil had, nevertheless, kept from Asger the fact that, this competence (ability) also came at a terrible price. Egil Viggoaries had been forewarned by Samnuk and thence, had avoided invoking the “Shapeshift Hex” till a week ago, when it was (absolutely) necessary, and it was an appropriate time. But as a result, he was now a marked, hunted being!

Egil Viggoaries however was not one to meekly surrender his life. He had a vast network of spies, officials, and invincible warriors of Black Molochs, in addition to his other means and faculties, to protect and preserve his life. After he had finished here, he would then assess (gauge) what he could do to effectively extricate himself from this objectionable dire predicament (consequence).

Presently, Egil shook his head and quickly brushed aside this unpleasant flash of intrusion into his mind; then, uninterrupted, he said: “When my agents got a viable information about your whereabouts, from no less, Heaven’s Gate Spiritual Temple, I set out at once to deal with this unfinished business with you, for I could not very well rely on anyone else to do as proper a job, then me. I am disappointed though, at not finding Nevetsecnuac here. Is he on a hunt or sent on some foolish errand?”

 

“Never mind, I can afford to wait to deal with him later. One thing is for sure however, after my return to Channing with my trophies, with all your decapitated heads, and collected my just rewards from Zakhertan Yozdek, well, I shall embark on that far more exciting and ambitious venture…Attaining my lifetime’ goal of becoming the next Sovereign of Wenjenkun.” Egil Viggoaries smirked, remaining silent for a time as he envisioned the glorious future.

“But for now, I shall be content with just tormenting you, like you have never been before and, make you squirm!” Egil grounds his teeth. “Shall I tell you the exquisite details of torture I put that imposter through, the one that was supposed to be me, languishing in jail. But you were (made) aware of every bit, through your contacts, weren’t you? Yet you persisted, forestalling, straining from any rescue attempt. You are such a hypocrite, leading a virtuous life, all the while condemning, ignoring an innocent being’s lifetime of torment. Long at last, the time has come for restitution; we shall see how you like it. I have been well instructed in the arts of sadism and torture by Zakhertan Yozdek, yes, your arch nemesis, after all.  Do not rely on your resilient, iron-will stand on your ground; I have countless means to break you. Doubt not, I shall exact total vengeance for what I have had to endure all those years. I hold you personally responsible for it all; but first, ignorance shall not be your defense.”  With a contemptuous snort he advanced towards Asger and squatted before him. “Oh, I have neglected to tell you, I have also mastered primeval, fundamental secrets (erudition) of the Dark Occults. I have motley means to torment you in inconceivable ways.”

 

05- EGIL VIGGORIES'S FACE DARKENED  1- 23 JP

 Egil’s face darkened; his vicious glare now burrowing into Asger’s flesh, he hotly snarled: “There is no substitute for firsthand experience; eyes being the windows of the soul, care to have a peek?”  Egil grabbed Asger by the collars, pinned Asger’s face to that of his own, and forced Asger to look hard into his now glowing, flaming pupils.

In his spellbound state, time being relative, Asger bore firsthand witness to sequential, fast paced events (unraveled episodes), particularly that of his innocent son Ivar’s pubescent (toddler) years being marred (sullied) by the unspeakable savagery and brutal abuse at the hand of Chief Eunuch Mokan, a devious, lecherous brute with a black heart. After the demise of Mokan, Asger (still immersed in that world long since gone by) bore witness next to Ivar’s, though by then renamed Egil’s, terrible adolescent years of perpetual violence, torture, and persecution. This wrenched Asger’s heart! But the worst was yet to come!

Asger was moreover tormented, by subsequent, far baser incidents that had transpired in Egil Viggoaries’s adult years. Those terrible occurrences, the ineffable, odious acts inflicted on Egil, and he in turn, had done to others, specifically to his jailed (imprisoned) namesake, deeply wounded Asger’s soul and made his body cringe!  Asger’s eyes now brimmed with tears as his heart drowned in the interminable pool of inconsolable grief.

  

The Dark Eunuch at first was amused noting how his father, having reached a near saturation point, now did not want to see anymore, yet forced himself to endure it stoically and penitently (remorsefully) all.

“Oh, how noble of you!” Egil Viggoaries contemptuously ground his teeth.

 

Asger, just then had silently cursed his incapacitated state, for he wanted very much, to implore his son’s forgiveness and to explain the dire circumstances that had necessitated his previous act.

Surmising this, Dark Eunuch’s rage still not allayed, he derisively scoffed. “You would only waste your breath. It is too late for that anyhow, and it is too late for any mercy (clemency)! Now, do you care to see further what a terrific life and fate, the ramifications which your actions fostered for me? At least it was not dreary (lackluster)! Come, bear witness to my multitude of accomplishments! As the brilliant official of Wenjenkun, I dare say, I have (excelled) outdone my part, far more than that undeserving proxy (substitute) Nevetsecnuac. You should be proud, for technically (theoretically) at least, a good measure of my accomplishments, ought to be accredited to you!”

 

The following horrors again witnessed by Asger, as the ferocious Eunuch Egil Viggoaries preyed on numerous innocents and noble courtiers, the copious tortured, carved up and maimed individuals, savagery at times committed on a whim, unmercifully denigrated (abused) Asger’s already wearied soul. The ghastly images of those unjustly accused as they were being beaten up even though they had no skin left to flay then set on fire, the anguished cries of those being buried alive as part of Eunuch’s nightly entertainment, all these atrocities would unfortunately forever, hereafter, would hunt Asger’s peace.

Presently however, bearing in mind Wenjenkun’s welfare, his grave responsibilities, and his obligation as a liege man (to Zuronghan  Therran Valamir) Asger with his strong will deliberately overcame the flood of emotions and withstood the tremendous pressures. What is more, from that near saturation point, instead of descending to phantom depths of no return, he had rebounded to resist the onslaught of mounting horrific images and, stemmed the damage of the all-encompassing and unremitting evil tide which had been thrusted upon him. His firm (unyielding) logical mind, moreover, had hardened Asger’s heart and resolve (steel determination) irrevocably against the vile beast which (Ivar) Egil had now become.

 

06- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON  (97)JP

 

Asger had always held the firm belief that, despite the terrible trials and tribulations of life and the adverse environmental conditioning, individual’s nature could still be good, and that, each man was the master of their own destiny.  Over two decades (since that crucial time) now, Asger had silently borne the burden of guilt, for abandoning his flesh and blood to an unknown fate; but he would not from hereafter, shoulder full blame for Ivar’s (Egil Viggoaries’s) brutal actions. Had Ivar (Egil) been benevolent (virtuous) at core, he would have withstood all pressures, all manner of brainwashing, all perversions, and he would have perished rather than succumbed to evil. Truth, justice, love, loyalty, and compassion being the essential elements (key ingredients) of moral fabric, the epitome (embodiment) of it would have without fail, steered even the most repugnant, fallen man back onto the righteous path and beget his salvation. There was no excuse therefore, for Egil Viggoaries’s (Ivar’s) mature (grownup) years of rapacious, barbaric crimes committed against humanity.

Egil Viggoaries, though from the same noble blood and gene-pool with Lord Asger, the Dark Eunuch’s quintessence (character, heart, and spirit) had elected to succumb to and perpetuate iniquitous (heinous) evil, hence, giving Asger at present, a just cause to forever disown (renounce) him.  

 

Egil Viggoaries becoming aware of this change in Asger’s countenance (expression, visage) now and realizing that his sinister and vengeful design had ultimately (basically) failed, he let go his supernatural hold on Lord Asger, as there were still more avenues, he had not yet explored. Heck, the longer Asger held out with his strong will, the more prolonged would be his ultimate enjoyment of the conquest and the inevitable decimation (obliteration) of Asger’s fundamental being (quintessence, soul).  And so undeterred, rising to his feet, Egil Viggoaries went over and picked up the sword.

His eyes slowly caressing the blade, “Now,” he declared viciously, “I shall pay you back in another way. I shall first taint that beauty in the next room that you are so protective of. She must be Nevetsecnuac’s wife, and those two must be his spawns. And when I am through with her, both her and the children shall have a taste of this magnificent blade. Your precious ancestral sword!”  With a sinister smile on his lips, resembling a marauding tiger, he then turned and simply went out of the room (exited the room).

 

 

(END OF SECTION 5)

      

                                                                                      

 13- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR - SECTION 4

 Lord Asger was warily (cautiously) concerned by the stranger’s unstable, irresolute  conduct particularly since it became quite evident from his sheer exasperation that some mystical force had overtaken control of his physical and mental faculties (free will). Asger therefore, quietly now considered moving the stranger, soon as he’s able (and his weaken state improved) to the barn, to ensure safety of his three charges (Tequob and the twins).

 

01- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON (173) - JP

Lord Asger had not been too far off in this assumption; actually, since before the stranger’s arrival at the cabin, his mental state, more specifically his soul, had been incessantly trapped (caught) in a dire, despondent struggle (battle) for dominance with a malevolent spirit bent on utter possession of his very being.  Now in his further enfeebled (debilitating) state because of the side-effects of the medicine coursing through his veins, even with his indomitable spirit, he had struggled hard but in vain, to override the combined effects of the evil potent force and the linctus (remedy)steadily depleting his resistance. His cognizance, his grasp on reality gradually abating (diminishing), he eventually was overpowered by it and subsequently, hopelessly, succumbed (capitulated) to its abysmal (execrable) control!

Asger, despite his misgivings, for the time being pushing it aside, had indulgently smiled then placed a gentle, conciliating (mollifying) hand on the stranger’s shoulder and kindly advised him: “Do not fret or fight the effects of the drug.  You are safe; best you conserve your physical energy for now and surrender (give in) to sleep! We can address your cognitive (mental) and spiritual, difficulties later (all in good time), never fear.”

Having so persuaded the patient to again lie down, Asger was about to head out the door when the stranger just then mechanically turning his head, ejected in a gurgling sound, “I’m parched (thirsty)…. T…”  His subsequent words unfortunately were too indiscernible (Incomprehensible).

“You wish to have some Tea?” Asger (turning around) reeled in surprise to question the stranger, to reaffirm what he had thought he had heard was in fact correct. (right)

“Yes please,” the stranger nodded, “and if you’d be so kind, Lord Zhon, I would be most honored (and obliged) indeed, if your Lordship were to join me!” The stranger had appeared quite lucid just then when he had uttered those words, before lapsing again into a state of apparent confusion.

Asger again momentarily brushing aside his trepidation and inner foreboding, nodded his ascent; but before exiting the room, he discreetly retrieved the miniature flagon (flask) containing a potent sleeping potion from his medicine bag.  

At outside, he shook his head to dispel his dark thoughts, knowing he would deal with whatever may come. Judging by the extent of the stranger’s injuries, the source of them, some not being elusive at all, Asger could accurately determine his past terrible ordeals, which offered at least in part, an explanation for the stranger’s deranged state of mind. The sword, meanwhile, was meant to reassure Asger of his trustworthiness. The stranger obviously held in his brain (been privy to) vital information yet to be communicated, this constraining Asger hence, to be both patient (tolerant) and tactful.

One thing was for certain however, while the stranger, presumed scholar, was in that weakened state with his chaotic mind affecting hazard (menace) to self and anyone else, he had to be somehow, at some point, confined (restrained).

Asger, with such ponderance, had walked over to the hearth (fireplace)and with a small protective cloth he reached for the iron pot’s (teapot) hot handle; the pot was already filled with boiling water with steeping tea leaves within it. This brewed fresh pot of tea was then further allocated (dispensed, shared out) into two different size porcelain carafes (vessels, decanters): the large one resting on the centre of the table and then the smaller pot alongside the three empty cups already positioned on the silver tray. Asger added the wooden spoons next to each of the three bowls filled to the brim with steaming porridge and then quickly took all of it straight into Tekuob’s room. As she and the children were still sounding asleep, not daring to disturb them, he quietly placed the tray on the night table and exited the serene premises by gently closing the door behind him.

 

02- THE SCHOLAR STRANGER - JP

He was surprised (shocked) to find the outlandish scholar this time seated at the table in the main hall, with no signs of past ordeal (no visible lacerations or bruises on face or body, hair perfectly combed, waring a different and spotless attire), brazenly having already helped himself to a cup of tea, from the larger pot on the table. The flask containing the sleeping potion, clearly untampered, in plain sight rested on the same table.

 

The scholar, furthermore, having quite unabashedly helped himself to an ancient manuscript and, appearing very much at home, was presently pouring over the segment of the scroll.  Asger’s prized possession sprawled all over the kitchen table lay dangerously close to the hot carafes and the clay jug that was filled to the brim with honey.  

Asger, naturally was taken back, nevertheless masking his unease he politely inquired: “Your astounding recovery afforded me some ease (comfort); however, you have me at a disadvantage sir, may I now know your name?”

 

The scholar with an unhurried manner rose to his feet, and then reverently prostrated himself before Lord Zhon.  His subsequent apologies quickly dispensed with; he formally introduced himself as the noted Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald.  He followed it with his deep appreciation for the care he had received from Lord Asger Zhon, giving Asger full credit for his miraculous recovery. His subsequent brief account of his background (credentials) dispensed with; he was about to mention Nevetsecnuac when on second thought, he curtailed his tongue. He remained silent for a time, as though he was lost for words.  

 

Asger feigned being satisfied, signaled for scholar to take a seat and then with certain decorum (composure) sat down across from Fradel. Before he could question Fradel on how he came by Lord Zhon’s ancestor sword, or more importantly, about the wellbeing of Nevetsecnuac, right at this point Fradel interrupting him, sprung to his feet.

 

After Fradel’s exaggerated, respectful bow, and words, “Please forgive my presumption, Lord Zhon.” He quickly rolled up the rare manuscript and, going over, placed it back on the top shelf of the bookcase that was by the far wall. On his return, grimacing sheepishly then wryly, his eyes briefly had stayed at Tekoub’s door, then swept over the flask, before apologetically sitting down and then, helping himself to yet another cupful of steaming tea.

Asger, though he did not show it, was infuriated with himself for not detecting the underlying thread and letting in this danger inside; now he would have to exert (labour)much harder feat (act) to fix (resolve) this breach and prevent the anticipated sure peril. The fact that the Scholar Fradel had bypassed the security and the spun spell that had guarded the premise from malevolent forces up till then, had secretly both alarmed and confounded (perplexed) Asger; meanwhile, overlooking Fradel’s purposely diverting, brazen audacity and seemingly inane erratic conduct, Asger had striven all this while to determine, without much success, the scholar’s perceived, hidden agenda.

 

03- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON   (90)JP

 

Fradel Rurik Korvald, after pensively consuming several sips of tea from his cup, raised his head only once, to address Asger with forced polite demeanor and to express his appreciation: “I must compliment you sir, on the excellent infusion!”

 It is the best I have had in a while. This rare brew is reserved for the exclusive use of Royalty; it must be imported from Kontu at exorbitant expense and trouble. The Scholar nevertheless masking these thoughts stole a quick glance at his host and then turned his attention back on the superb landscape scroll mounted at the far wall. An ancient masterpiece adorns his walls, as well; rare manuscripts, and this most exquisite tea, you lack nothing, do you? Fradel snorted; his head lowered.

 

The uneasy curtain of silence meanwhile had descended on them both for about three minutes as each had considered their subsequent moves. The tense atmosphere within was further compounded by the thrashing winds and pelting rain outside, as it drummed impatiently, incessantly on the cabin walls and on the roof.

 

Thankfully, Tekuob and the twins were still fast asleep. If only he had paid heed to Fiery Comet’s warning and to his innate intuition! What a complacent fool he had been!

Asger knew however that he had precious few minutes before he could swiftly and decisively affect (shape, modify) his plan to check this present, dire danger (circumstance). In his ponderance, Asger had distractedly poured himself a steaming cup of tea and then raised it to his lips.  

Oh no! He had detected the odd odor too late, after he had absentmindedly swallowed a mouthful and put the cup down. Throwing an angry, cursory glance at Fradel, Asger bolted from his seat just as the effects of poison were taking root and hastened to his room to validate his suspicion. He at once reached for his medicine bag and, retrieving it, he was about to rummage through the contents quickly when…

 

“You are looking for these?”  Fradel Rurik Korvald just then appeared at the door, hissed in a sinister voice as he held out the two slightly different dark grey miniature flasks for Asger to see. The darker grey flask contained the dreaded poison; the lighter shade one held the rare antidote for it.

“How…Why?” Was all that Asger (could manage) managed to eject (cry out) before the anticipated paralysis of the body set in. He remained, hence, as he was, speechless, unable to move a single muscle. In his catatonic state, because his cognitive function, the only one, had remained unaffected (not hindered or debilitated); his eyes showed the anxiety and rage that had swelled up from deep within him.

The scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald meanwhile smiling smugly, had closed the door behind him, then going over. He comfortably seated himself in the chair.

“How indeed!” He shrugged. Then suddenly his face turned hard, and with a venomous, contemptuous glare, he gritted his teeth. “I laced (tainted, spiked) the inside bottom of your empty cup with the poison, a single drop that was all it was needed; the potful of tea was quite safe.” He grinned maliciously.

 

04- SCHOLAR FRADEL  JP 5

Now in answer to your second query, “Why?”  He derisively ejected and then huffed. “I should be asking you that very same question! Why? Why have you betrayed me? For what? Duty? Misplaced loyalty? Honor? For that Princeling?” he growled.

“Have you any idea what you put me through my whole life?” Fradel’s voice now thundered with rage; that could not be assuaged.

“God damn you!” He hurled the poison flask smashing it to Smithereens on the floor, as the same time bolted from his seat. Going over next Fradel uncorked the lighter shade flask containing the antidote and, with a venomous sneer, he deliberately emptied the entire contents onto the floor. He coolly (coldheartedly) watched as the parched wooden planks thirstily absorbed (lapped it up) the last drop of hope and salvation for Asger.

“All gone!”  The incredulous tone of the contemptuous Fradel, infuriated Asger.

His defiant, threatening glare (eyes) however, further unleashed the scholar’s pent-up rage; Fradel squatting, his scowling face inches from Asger’s, he hissed venomously then hit him hard right across, with the back of his hand, bloodying Asger’s nose.  

 

 “I alone have the right to indignation, not you!”  Fradel barked.

 

The subsequent blows of his fist to Asger’s face turned Asger’s swollen face range of deep purple; there was such terrible ringing in his ears now, his head swam and, from the cuts and lacerations in face, as well the split lip, copious blood oozed onto his chin and neck then down.

 

The brutal pressure of Fradel’s knee crushing (pressing) down on his chest meanwhile, had constrained Asger’s lungs in his bruised chest cavity, and he had labored for that precious intake of (breath) air! Ruthlessly constrained from retaliating, Asger became even more fearful for the welfare of Tekuob and the children.

This deranged lunatic; this vile, raving brute had to be stopped at all costs before he affected (brought) serious harm to them!  But how?

Asger indifferent to hurled insults and inflicted pain, had wracked his brain for an apt solution; however, despite his strong will, he had failed (been unsuccessful) to alter his dire circumstance (predicament). All he had managed thus far to do was to move his eyelids.

But Asger was not one to give up so easily; closing his eyes and according to ancient principles mastering his circumstance hence, he summoned his vital energy source from deep within him. Before he could utilize (direct) it, however, “Snap out of it!” A vicious kick followed by a sharp, searing pain across his chest just then, interrupted Asger’s revival and fitting retaliation.

The villainous Scholar, meanwhile, on second thought, had restrained (constrained) his urge to break every bone in Asger’s ribcage. Then his sinister gaze for a second fell on the Asger’s ancestral sword that had not yet been put away.  

 

“Patience!” Fradel pursing his lips, sneered. This singular pleasure will have to wait, as he needed this dastardly fiend alive for now!  

 

“Oh, but in the meantime, I shall enjoy tormenting your sanctimonious mind, and later, ….!” Chewing on the last set of words, he rancorously promised. “Shame will eat you up alive as you perish by slow degrees!”

 

Fradel’s subsequent sinister laughter made the hairs on the back of Asger’s neck stand on end and rage swelled within him anew. Nevertheless, Asger with a blank stare, turned his attention inward once more and focused on purging his heart (soul) of all human sentiment. Afterwards, to gain time, he would direct his will to slow down the effects of poison coursing through his vitals.

 

“Look at me!”  Fradel Rurik Korvald’s bark, however, once again interrupted Asger’s concentration. Fradel subsequently pressed his seething face right into Lord Asger Zhon’s and demanded (commanded), “I said, look at me! You cannot deny my existence any longer, maggot! I am here to make you answer for your crimes!”

 

 

 

  (END OF SECTION 4)

 

 

 

                                                                                            ~

 

 13- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR - SECTION 3

Back at the wooden Cabin, life had gone on as before, with few exceptions and minor adjustments. Now, since the day of Tekuob’s outcry, (the day of Nevetsecnuac’s near death experience because of the poisoning) she had been ailing in health but in her stubbornness, she had refused all Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon’s sensible entreaties to take it easy.

 

01- TEKUOB AND THE TWINS - jp

Compounding the difficulty, the summer months in these high altitudes came to a much swifter end, and the harsher climate indigenous to this mountain expectantly brought along with-it perilous conditions and untold dangers!

Having reckoned with three calamitous events already, the wary inhabitants of the cabin had barely time to rest when fresh disaster struck them: in this case unfortunately, the victim being Tekuob, and the culprit, none other than a large venomous Dakoe viper, the most dreaded kind of all!

This Dakoe viper long since thought extinct, seeking shelter from the harsh elements had seen fit to make his home in the large wooden barrel vat that contained a safe (eatable) variety of dried mushrooms and complimentary greens. This and other such reserves (such as berries, eatable roots, dried vegetables, dried mint, spices, grain, fodder etc.), were usually stored in clay (earthen) bins or wooden barrels alongside stacks of firewood for the use in winter months, at the northern sector of the stables.

Tekuob, in the course of her duties (daily chores) had encountered and unfortunately then been bitten by this deadly asp (Dakoa), had therefore nearly perished.

By providence (chance) Asger being at proximity and therefore responding to her sharp outcry swiftly, he had promptly terminated the culprit, as well, timely extracted the poison from her arm. As it was, the identification of the viper had been the key component (essential factor) in her effective treatment and ultimate survival. A second strike from such a viper would have brought about her instantaneous demise. No amount of effort would then have delivered her from the jaws of death.

 

01- TEKUOB AND THE TWINS - jp

Even so, despite Asger’s untiring and competent care, she had remained in a comatose state for a week; her internal organs all the while undergoing one crisis after another, this being the resulting consequence, the painfully nasty side effects of this venom! With sudden reversals in her condition her erratic palpitations of heart, her battered, bruised and swollen body, unexpected elevations (rises) and drops in body’s temperature, discoloration of skin tone, all-in-all her deteriorating condition, despite the rendition of five potent (effective) treatments, had given Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon more than once a serious fright.

Lord Asger also knew that in all the documented medical cases (in medical journals), few if any, had ever recovered fully from the effects of this dreaded viper’s venom; and the few that had survived for a time, had eventually been driven insane by the future resurgent, hazarding ramifications. With this inevitability weighing heavily on Asger’s mind, he had nevertheless concentrated on the present situation at hand and, with vigilant care did all humanly possible and more, to deliver Tekuob from the imminent danger and to prolong her life.

 

Eventually, by degrees, after weeks of meticulous tending, she had beaten the worst odds and regained the use of her limbs and the full faculty of her senses. Once the destructive cycle had been averted (forestalled), her body had to still overcome the complications, the expected side-effects from the ingested, and (in its own right) highly toxic, antidote. With slow, painful road to recovery well under way, Teukuob, though still indisposed, last few days had even begun showing gradual but definite signs of improvement in her overall condition.

Lord Asger, shouldering the full burden of worry, kept her ominous future-health- prognosis - that at any time and without probable cause she could suffer a relapse resulting in her painful end- from Tekuob, so as not to impede (encumber) her recovery.

  

                                                                             ~

  

Now at about this juncture in time, Fiery Comet’s sudden arrival at nightfall in a stormy weather without a rider, compounded Lord Asger’s trepidation; he had secretly anticipated in absence of any news from Nevetsecnuac this dreaded outcome for some time now and, Fiery Comet’s present disheveled (shabby, scruffy) condition confirmed some of his worst fears!

 

03- LORD ASGER MARROG ZHON (154)  JP

Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon, not wishing to hamper Tekuob’s fragile convalescence, decidedly, for the time being at least, strove to keep this bad portent, from her. He swiftly confined the horse to the stable and fed him fodder; then later that night, as soon as he could get away, he tended to the mount’s other needs, such as cleaning him (wiping the sweat off his body) and tending to his multitude of cuts, bruises, and wounds.

Asger’s efforts bearing fruit, in no time at all Fiery Comet’s wellbeing, at least in part, was restored; only, his indomitable spirit lacked the usual fiery zeal, for he had sensed and shared the depth and breadth of Lord Asger’s silent inconsolable grief and inwardly shed tears!

Also understanding Lord Asger’s desire for secrecy, in ready compliance, he kept the noise level down to a minimum (like his neighing or stomping) even those times when he was let outside to roam free in the dense forest.

  

                                                                                      ~

  

For five days now, continuous strong gale winds and pelting rain have wreaked havoc at everything outside. The cabin’s sturdy walls and roof, though withstanding the enormous, environmental pressures had, nevertheless, incessantly shook from the violent outbursts and relentless assaults from beasts and nature. But regardless of prevalent danger Asger had always perfunctorily risen just before dawn each and every day, as he’d done for over two decades, to tend to morning chores- in this case, caring for Fiery Comet, investigating and securing the perimeter before he washed up and returned back to the cabin with an adequate supply (stack) of firewood and bucket of water.

Subsequently, Lord Asger Zhon had been busy kindling the embers in the fireplace when, despite the deafening noise outside, his keen ears picked up (detected) Fiery Comet’s alarm-raising (alarming) whinnies and urgent stomping in the stable.

 

04- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON (150) JP

 

“What now?” Asger’s brows knitted in deep concern.

 

Expecting a likely breach (intrusion) into the stable from a carnivorous beast, a desperate foraging animal or a fowl in search of food and warmth, Lord Asger rose to his feet and after making certain that neither Tekuob nor the children were awakened, or in any way disturbed by all that commotion outside, as Tekuob was still convalescing, he opened the door to, in due haste rush outside.

He barely missed running into a disarrayed stranger brandishing none other than Asger’s own ancestral sword, the very one he had entrusted to Prince Nevetsecnuac. Before Asger’s accost (inquiry)however, the stranger with a disheveled hair, who was clad in torn and bloody garments, his face and body bearing numerous lacerations, cuts and bruises, with eyes glazed, head swooning, had suddenly dropped the sword and was about to collapse backward when, Lord Asger agilely grabbed hold of both the sword and the stranger spontaneously, before both had had a chance to hit the ground. (No small feat, as Asger had only one arm!)  

The stranger in the grip of a terrible fever, in his semi-conscious state mumbling deliriously, was at once hauled over the shoulder and quickly (got) carried into Asger’s room. Gently placed onto the bed, Asger proceeded with his quick diagnosis of the stranger’s condition; determining (seeing) that his state was not lethal, Asger armed with a staff departed the room in haste to resolve the other, more pressing concern (issue). When his subsequent brief investigation in the barn (woodshed) assured Asger that Fiery Comet was in no real danger, he laid aside his bamboo stick and stroked the steed mane to help calm him down. He next provided the steed with a bucket of water and silage (fodder, hay). As the stallion (horse) was still on edge, Asger tried talking to him to quiet him down. “Now, now… it is all right boy, patience I know, has never been one of your strong points but the storm will soon abate, and you can roam free at outside for as long as you wish. As for the stranger, frankly, in his condition he poses no threat to anyone! And besides, Nevetsecnuac would not have entrusted the sword to a foe. This is the most encouraging sign we have had in a long time. In any case, he obviously brings word from Nevetsecnuac.” Asger had mumbled this last part more for his benefit; he needed to hang on to that slightest of hope.

 

05- FIERY COMET IN BARNJP

Asger’s placating words having finally the desired effect, the mount’s persistent irritation, his repeated stomping, and neighing slowed, then altogether ceased.  “Good boy,” Asger presently rewarded the steed with four crab apples (wild apples). He then picked up the freshly filled bucket of water and headed towards the barn door.

“I must be off now, I will tend to your other needs soon after I have checked on the stranger, all right? Now behave yourself, lest you wake up Tekuob and the children!” Asger half-turned his head, just as he headed out the stable door, part serious and part jesting, admonished Fiery Comet.

Bracing against the violent, thrashing (blinding) winds and hail, Asger then quickly retraced his steps back to the cabin and seeing that all was quiet inside, proceeded to nurse the stranger back to health: In swift succession all his wounds were cleaned; deep lacerations properly tended to and bandaged; his garments were changed (into) with more appropriate ones and the old wear put aside to be later mended and cleaned. The stranger’s unconscious state had made it easier for Asger to complete these tasks swiftly; since the patient’s pulse and his vitals were quite steady and almost normal, Asger applied another cold compress over his’s slightly feverish forehead and administered to him orally the right dose of medicine, one that would help speed his recovery (healing process) and restore him to good health. Asger, having done all that he could, he left the patient snuggled in the safety of a warm quilt to sleep it off, as it would be the natural side-effect of the administered potion, and then, quietly exited the room to see his other responsibilities. Fortunately, there were still two more hours before daybreak and before Tekuob and the children awoke.

In keeping with his word, Asger went back to the barn (outbuilding, shed) to tend to Fiery Comet’s further needs; afterwards, he fetched more firewood and water and then returned to the main cabin. Preparations for breakfast were well under way (completed), feeling ill-at ease about the stranger’s (precarious) condition. He momentarily peered into the room to check in on the patient’s expected progress. When he did, the most unexpected sight greeted Asger!

 

06- THE STRANGER  - JP (1 (3)

The stranger far from sleeping it off soundly, his face free from prior lacerations and bruises and showing no signs at all of his past ordeals, was sitting bolt upright on the bed, though in a dazed state; subsequently, he lowered his gaze and then remained perfectly still!

“Remarkable,” Asger murmured, approaching the bedside. He knew that the patient should have been dead to the world for at least six more hours; for it was physically impossible for a mortal being, however, strong in stamina, to override the potent effects of the drug he had administered to him. Stroking his beard he, moreover, pondered for a moment on the stranger’s extraordinary appearance. Unless? The answers quickly came to mind. Right, he had this medicine in his possession for at least fifteen years. Though adequately stored, it still could have lost some measure of its potency (expired); meanwhile, he had quickly dismissed the other, viable, negative thought that had also crept into his mind.

As the patient did not respond to his general, polite inquiries, Asger apathetically (indifferently) picked up the cold compass lying on the floor and discarded it into the trash. He then reached for the patient’s wrist and listened carefully to the rhythm of his pulse. It was close enough to normal; the few irregularities were no cause for alarm. The liver, kidney, and lungs functioned fine. As for the slight arrhythmia of the heart (irregular heartbeat pattern, palpitations), that too, was an expected consequence of the drug… Hmm, but the stranger’s skin coloration was slightly (bit) off!

Asger’s mind was preoccupied with the successive treatment he might be using to address that peculiarity, when just then the stranger’s lowered head suddenly jerked up. His keen, probing (inquisitive, quizzical), cold eyes for a solid minute (burrowing into) were affixed on Asger; then, he scathingly (derisively) snorted and looked away. In that moment he had appeared surprisingly alert and in full command of his faculties. But when he was accosted (questioned) by Asger and he was about to respond, abruptly just then a dark curtain, a visible shadow swept across his face. His eyes dimmed, his contrite (penitent), noble and principled expression in face transforming, for a fleeting moment it became hard, vein, contemptuous, vile and seething; subsequently, his burrowing gaze softened and then shifted to that of a dumbfounded and blank (void, empty) stare!

Before Asger could positively determine the cause of stranger’s vacillating disposition

(erratic mood swings), his expression had yet again altered, this time to sheer exasperation- as if a mystically enforced catatonic disorder overriding his will, had again held him in its mercy. Try as he might, his jaws being locked as if in a vice-grip despite his intense desire at the core of his being to reply, thwarted him nevertheless from responding to any of Asger’s concerned enquiries (probes). Asger had moreover discerned those tearing pupils, the desperate cry of alarm, a heed of warning!

 

 

(END OF SECTION 3)                                                                                           ~

 

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