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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 13- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR - SECTION 1

Far from the political hub of Channing where incredible events were transpiring, beyond the remotest border province of Zhincho, near the summit of the towering snowcapped mountains, in a concealed location under the dense canopy of the forest, cohabiting a wooden cabin, Lord Asger (Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon, Stark) and Tekuob had been living their days in accordance with the proprieties of a father and daughter, in relative harmony. Each day’s routine much the same they kept up the hopeful anticipation of soon receiving the positive news from Prince Nevetsecnuac.

01A - LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON AND TEQUOB  (60)J JP

Time passed swiftly with days blending into weeks and weeks into months, though despite Lord Asger’s growing impatience, his hopes of one day being called to arms having never wavered, whenever he could get away and in whatever time he could spare, he kept up with his vigilant martial exercises and edifying (improving) his theoretical, tactical military expertise (proficiency). 

Oftentimes for diversity giving in to Tekuob’s persistence, he routinely (habitually) instructed her on the (mostly defensive) martial arts. Subsequently, with inner pride he watched her day after day, by degrees blending the imparted techniques with her own innate skills to develop her own varied manifold fighting style and thence, becoming a very proficient archer and, with her incredible prowess, wielding a deadly sword.

02A- TEKUOB AND ASGER PRACTICE FIGHTING  (8)jp

But with the passage of even more time, it became increasingly more difficult for Asger (Stark) to maintain his optimism; fearing the worse, he grew impatient with creeping inner resentment, at being (stranded) bound here at the mountain where he could lend no useful assistance to his (first) priority.

What if some harm had already befallen Nevetsecnuac? Consequently then, in all this time he would have lived in vain, guilty of being derelict in his crucial obligation and breaking the oath (covenant) to his maternal uncle, Prince Shon (7^th Prince Shon Alric Therran valamir). On the other hand, he was also bound by the oath to Nevetsecnuac, the oath of taking diligent care of his wife and children. Therefore, competent as Tekuob was, he could not, in good conscience, leave her behind to seek out any news of Nevetsecnuac, nor could he bring her and the twins along with him on such a, perilous, fact-finding mission.

Lord Asger Zhon, duty-bound yet constrained, had often fretted thus, at the conclusion of each day, at those solitary moments before retiring.

02B- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON (167) JP

At dawn with iron determination, he regularly resurrected the hope in his heart and directed his full attention instead, to the preservation (protection, safeguarding) and nurturing (educating) Nevetsecnuac’s beloved wife Tekuob and his identical twins Alric Svein and Lueling. As it were, in all this time Tekuob had borne so many hardships stoically that she had earned (besides his fatherly love,) his lasting admiration; meanwhile, her increasing proficiency in wielding the sword gave Asger some solace, for if nothing else, he was arming her to defend herself during his absence of periodic hunting treks, where which he provided the nutritionally requisite supplement, the meat, for especially, his growing niece and nephew.

Asger’s heart, meanwhile, had secretly ached noting her terrible longing for her beloved husband, even though she had often admirably, filled her days and her every waking moment, with caring for her children, chores, study, and martial exercises, so that at dusk her energies utterly spent, left little room for her to worry. This sort of deterrence, however, could only work so far; naturally, in the continued absence of any news, it became increasingly more difficult for her to conceal her mounting (rising) inner melancholy while maintaining her outwardly hopeful facade. Since nothing escaped Asger’s (Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon’s) notice, and he had also, excellent hearing, it aggrieved him knowing that in the small hours of the night, Tekuob had often quietly shed tears until sleep overtook her. But even then, the fears and the terrible ordeals of her childhood and the demons from her past manifesting vengefully in her sleep and fueling the persistent nightmares, robbed her of scant tranquil respite; thence, she would often wake with a start drenched in the cold pearls of perspiration and then pace the room to and for till dawn broke.

This naturally concerned Asger, fearing that her obvious sleep deprivation and her suppressed (bottled up) emotions might one day acutely harm her mental and physical state. He unfortunately could do little besides (despite) his subtle counsel and the nightly concoctions (curatives) he prescribed to get her to relax and, she still slept badly or not at all.

03- TWINS, ALRIC SVEIN  AND LUELING, ARE HANDFUL TO MANAGE

In daylight hours she fared better, during which time Tequob was far too (busy) preoccupied with routine chores, training and tending to her toddlers, who were with all that boundless energy, was a handful to manage. And those creative interaction with the very inventive and rambunctious twins, added to Asger’s diversionary tactics and subtle teachings of meditative techniques, which Tequob in time had embraced, kept all three resilient and healthy.

                                                                                          ~

One stormy night when gale (tempestuous) winds, thunder, and lightning yet again robbed Tekuob of any sleep, she decided on adapting another of Asger’s suggestions; thus, rising from her bed and then going over to her dresser, she quietly fetched a writing brush, ink and the small hand bound book, a journal, bypassing however the ivory-colored silk bundle (a scroll roll which she used for artistic expressions, such as drawing), which Asger had given her not too long ago to do with as she pleased.  This was the most encouraging sign of all as she, after a momentary hesitation, opened the journal (personal diary) to the first page and began in steady succession, writing down (scripting) her sundry private thoughts and concerns she would never outwardly speak, addressing them alternatively to Nevetsecnuac or, to her toddler son Svein and daughter Lueling. On subsequent nights, this routine confidential mental exercise (provided) had afforded her the much-needed emancipating succor (relief), until her anticipated reunion with her beloved Nevetsecnuac. She had remained thus, most grateful to Asger for his suggestion, as well, his unwavering patience and sensitivity.

In truth, Lord Asger’s countless, subtle attributes, so rare in a man, as time went by had endeared him even more to Tekuob. With all her heart (and soul), she felt indebted to His Lordship for his generous and accommodating ways and the fact that he had always shown her such forbearance. His loyal, warrior soul, heart, and mind, she knew, would always be with Prince Nevetsecnuac, as it should be, yet he had borne the added responsibility for her and her children with such magnanimity. She understood full well how hard it must have been for Lord Asger to bear with her feminine eccentricities (oddities), living in such close quarters; yet he had remained most upstanding (virtuous) and astoundingly (remarkably) tolerant of her vacillating moods, quirks, and foibles.

04- TEQUOB WRITES IN HER JOURNAL ABOUT LORD ASGER ZHON  (61)JP

Eternally grateful, she had once written to Nevetsecnuac, “I’ve never experienced such broadmindedness (no judgement or criticism) and tender care even from my own kin; as soon as the opportunity avails itself, I shall do my utmost, to accomplish a meritorious act, to repay a small portion of a huge debt I owe him.” “Heaven has blessed us, allowing Lord Asger to be an integral part of our life. We can all learn so much from such an honorable being, with incredible courage, moral rectitude, compassion, and loyalty.” Another time she had counseled young Svein and Lueling in her private diary (journal, memoir).

“Regardless of your future fates’ outcome, you must never waver (falter) in your courage and resolve; always emulate (the ways of) Lord Asger and, as your father before you have done, honor him and pay (strict) heed to all his invaluable teachings.” Subsequently, recounting succinctly, most recent (four) set of events about Lord Asger’s heroism, particularly the one about rescuing the toddler twins from the jaws of death, she had on yet another time, with this heartfelt statement, concluded that night’s entry. “Despite the overwhelming obstacles fate has (waylaid) thrown in his path, never once has His Lordship Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon ever deflected from his true purpose. He has stoically sacrificed so much and endured much more than any man would bear; therefore, this heroic warrior deserves our utmost gratitude (which can never be re-paid, not in the brief span of just one lifetime) and high esteem.”   Often, in her diary (journal) she imparted Nevetsecnuac, the exciting current events and Svein and Lueling’s growing progress, as well, their lovable characteristics and periodically, surprising, and most hilarious (amusing, humorous) adventures. Thus (Hence) in her heart, she had found the means to bridge the great distance (gap) that separated Nevetsecnuac from them.

05- TEQUOB WRITES IN HER JOURNAL, TO HER BELOVED NEVETSECNUAC

                                           ~                                         

 

Time passed quickly; but few days before Nevetsecnuac’s decisive combat with the villainous Emperor Zakhertan  Yozdek, when Nevetsecnuac was deliberately poisoned by an invisible prong (spike) hidden in one of the facets (module) of a jeweled cuff clasp on the jacket ( part of a keepsake tribute gift from the Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren’s offices, a traditional/ceremonial court attire, a garb, that had actually been tampered with the deadly, rare poison, by a Black Molochs’s agent, as part of Dark Eunuch Egil Viggoaries’s dastardly scheme), and therefore, Nevetsecnuac’s life was perilously at death’s door, on that date, all day long try as she might, Tekuob could not conceal her overwhelming feeling of restlessness and, same time, the disconsolate (gloomy) mood that had gripped her soul.

All matters vexed (irked) her; she was uncharacteristically incensed (angry) by the children’s rambunctiousness (boisterousness), at the howling winds outside, her chores did not go as well as she had hoped, a wild animal the night before had rampaged the vegetable garden, the windowpane in her bedroom had developed a small crack that needed an immediate repair. When the meal she had labored for the greater part of the morning burnt, she felt utterly dismayed and hiding in her room for an hour; she cried inconsolably.

Shortly afterwards, however, Tekuob, with admirable (reserve) willpower had suppressed her inner turmoil, dried her eyes, and emerged from her bedroom. The next two days, she continued to redirect (channel, convert) this persistent unease and the consequent restless energy towards completing the necessary tasks: which besides her routine chores, included patching (fixing) the crack in the windowpane (opting not to bother Lord Asger with such trifle), rescuing some of the plants and re-organizing the vegetable patch and cooking preserves (jams, jellies, conserves).

06- LORD ASGER ZHON GONE ON HUNTING TRIP (128)JP

Fortunately, Lord Zhon had been absent from the premise (vicinity), having departed shortly before dawn on an essential hunt. Armed with sword, bow, and arrows, he had descended from the mountain (high elevation on foot); and, Tequob knew, he would then venture into the dense forest’s perilous depths (thick foliage) to supply (provide) them with fresh game.

All this while, Tequob had been incessantly, fighting to supress her inner demons; on the third day her agitated state had unfortunately reached an apex point.  Nevertheless, by the time Asger had returned (that very afternoon) earlier than expected with a week’s worth of bounty, she had mastered her wayward (recalcitrant) emotions, and everything on the surface appeared placid and ordinary.

Later still, after the three had a nourishing midday meal Tekuob, as part of the daily routine, put the children to bed for an afternoon nap (cat nap, siesta) then settled herself at her desk to commence her studies of the classics and reading up on Wenjenkun’s history. Try as she might, however, she could not concentrate her thoughts (direct her undivided attention) on the lessons at hand. Her exasperated mind, in defiance of her will, kept straying onto diverse topics, majority being, unpleasant.

“What is the matter with me today?” Finally, putting the book down, she demurred. “Why is my mind in such perplexing bedlam (confounding mayhem)?”

In his seated position, though he was engrossed in what he was reading, sensing her irritation, Lord Asger abruptly looked up and subtly scrutinized (studied) her.

07- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON (168)jp

In that instance, Lord Asger’s perfunctory (fleeting) observation had told him there had been an assiduous (perpetual) serious concern praying on her mind; however, not wishing to intrude (as she will inform him when ready) he instead gave an indulgent smile and then, without a single word, reverted his undivided attention back to the ancient manuscripts and the amassed (summative) revisions of the time-honored war stratagems.

In truth, he too without cause since dawn, had felt intensely perturbed, but upon his return he had pushed it aside, relieved to see that (in their humble habitat) all was as it should be. Soon the toddler twins Alric and Lueling will be waking up from their afternoon siesta and they, being particularly lively and spirited (not unlike Nevetsecnuac at the same age), yet still too young for the implementation of strict discipline, Asger remained reluctant to disrupt the current peaceful repose, which was an integral part of their midday revitalization routine. As it were, despite his strong stamina, Asger had endured a particularly grueling morning, condensing weeks’ worth of hunting into just few (three) days, for he dared not be absent from them too long. Unfortunately, the quiet (silence) he had craved, did not last for too long.

Tekuob’s attention having again strayed from her studies, after a thoughtful pause, she abruptly looked up and then, begging Lord Asger’s pardon, started to say something that seemed imperative (most urgent), when suddenly at that fateful moment, back at Channing Nevetsecnuac’s life was in sure peril, Tekuob’s words in mid-sentence abruptly froze on her tongue and she, as if in dire agony clasped her hand over her heart. Consequently, overcome by the brusque, overwhelming feeling of deep dismay, plus the excruciating pain that had just then gripped her soul, her lovely face became ghostly ashen (pallid, pasty white).

That same instance, Asger had pricked his finger by the splinter jutting from the vintage (ancient) tome’s leather-bound spine casing (sheath, jacket), drawing blood; nevertheless, disregarding this, he rushed to inquire, “Are you all right, my child?” 

Tekuob at first had remained unresponsive, but then, with glazed eyes and, her face bearing the tragic look of a soul plunged into the abysmal depths of misery, she looked up at Lord Asger. When tears threatened to manifest, it was all she could do, but to turn her head away.

“Nevetsecnuac!” A stifled groan (moan, grunt) escaped from Lord Asger’s lips as the inexplicable fear and dread had just then gripped his pulsating, loyal heart.

The toddlers, who were just moments before peacefully asleep in the adjacent room, suddenly burst into loud wailings, as if startled-awake by a terrible nightmare.

 

                                                                                    ~

 

(END OF SECTION 1)

 12- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE PORTENDED PERIL - SECTION 7

 

In his delirious state thrashing about and fighting dragons, scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) had cried out, vociferously wowing to do everything within his power to fulfill his destiny.

01- FRADEL RURIK KORVALD ( NEVETSECNUAC) STILL IN GRIP OF FEVER (6)

Fortunately, the diligent Physician Quinher Yungar had paid little heed, disregarding these fevered ramblings of the Scholar, and instead, tirelessly strove to modify (reverse) the effects of the poison as well, reduce the persistent high fever, in the hope of rescuing his patient from the jaws of death.

Quinher Yungar was aware what it would mean, particularly for Zaur Stugr, if he failed in his attempts to cure the Illustrious Scholar; and, he bristled with rage (ire), for he didn’t need to be told who was behind this dastardly ploy to ruin his benefactor and dear friend, Zaur.

After many hours of gruelling and hair-raising moments, long at last the scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald’s (Nevetsecnuac’s) condition stabilized, more specifically his dangerously high fever subsided (waned, declined); and Quinher, for the first time ever, was able to lean (slump) his weary back in chair, and closed his eyes in brief respite.

Nevetsecnuac subsequently regaining full consciousness, though at first had felt no difference, he nevertheless knew that his soul had returned to his body, for the next instant he was suddenly fraught (laden, assaulted) by the violent throbbing in his head and temples, as well, felt every inch of his physical form being pricked (lanced) by million invisible needles that resulted in acute (most intense, penetrating) ache. He all the same bearing with this agonizing pain, Nevetsecnuac’s eyelids twitched then slowly, partially opened.

02- PHYSICIAN QUINHER YUNGAR - A 7 -JP (7)

The ever-vigilant physician Qinher, sensing the slight difference in Nevetsecnuac’s rhythmic breathing at this point, at once jumped to his feet and being keenly observant, noting his patient’s eyelids tad (sliver) flicker then slightly ajar, he let out a cry in relief.

This of course, let loose such volley of jubilant commotion (bustling activity) from all present, that Nevetsecnuac could barely get in a word edgewise. Finally, he managed to croak out an urgent request, for his solicitous attending physician Quinher to retrieve the specific pouch from his bottom drawer, where which he had kept the oval crystal pill that Zonar had imparted to him earlier on.

Quinher Yungar, despite his reservations to interrupt his meticulous tending and leave even for a second the scholar’s side, acceding, swiftly retrieved the requested item and brought it over to Fradel (Nevetsecnuac). With an unexpected swiftness, the Scholar snatched the pouch from Quinher’s hand and, before the perplexed Physician could query (quiz) or stop him, popped the crystal pill within it, straight into his mouth and swallowed it whole.

03- SCHOLAR FRADEL RURIK KORVALD (NEVETSECNUAC )(4)

As Zonar had promised, the results were instantaneous: Nevetsecnuac at once felt rejuvenated and strong, his face color restored to norm, his body (muscles, reflexes) immediately normalized, and he became as sound physically and mentally as if he had never undergone the terrible ordeal (affliction) with the poison in the first place.

Physician Quinher and the attendants witnessing this miraculous recovery, utterly dumbfounded (shocked), with agape mouths, stood frozen.

Nevetsecnuac now sitting up in bed, suddenly feeling parched, he had just reached forward to help himself to a cupful of water; after which, he intended to rise to his feet, when just then, Zaur Stugr happened to enter the room (appeared on the scene).

Zaur stugr, at once taking in the scene, though astounded, he quickly got a grip on his senses, cast a prompt, beholden (thankful, indebted) glance at Quinher, then squirely facing the Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald nodded his head in greeting to him, as his steps same time hastened to reach scholar’s bedside.

04-  MINISTER OF CEREMONY ZAUR STUGR JP (6)

“You have given us such a fright!” Zaur’s face now glowing in sheer delight (elated) and his demeanor clearly at ease, said to Fradel. “But please do not exert yourself by trying to get up now.”

Zaur next turned to again briefly look at Quinher and nodding, address him gratefully: “Excellent work doctor, I can see that the danger has been, finally, everted.”

“Indeed, I’m fully recovered; no need to fuss over me.” Nevetsecnuac, interjecting, with fluid ease sprung to his feet. Zaur could not constrain his utter amazement and sheer delight.

Subsequently, responding to Fradel’s request, Zaur formally introduced him to Phsician Quinher Yungar.

Scholar Fradel Rurik Corvald (Nevetsecnuac) reverently and with gratitude then, bowed to his benefactor, and addressing Quinher directly, said: “I am eternally indebted to you sir; for thanks to your excellent care, I am completely cured.”

05- PHYSICIAN QUINHER YUNGAR  (2)

Though perplexed and still in shock, Quinher hastened to decline any but the most minimal credit for Scholar’s convalescence, all the while silently thanking his lucky stars for this miraculous recuperation (cure, recovery). Long after Quinher had remained quietly intrigued however, wanting, but never getting the chance in that mayhem, to learn more about the potent crystal pill and the source of it.

Reading his mind, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) at one point, drawing near Quinher Yungar, in a whisper, promised Quinher to tell him all about it at later time; meanwhile, exuberantly, he continued advocating the physician’s medical abilities and accrediting his full recovery to Quinher’s excellent care.

Thus, flood of praises was heaped on the Physician, despite his protestations; and additionally, he was most handsomely rewarded by Zaur Stugr, who chose not to delve too deeply into this miraculous outcome.

Physician Quinher’s head was still reeling (swirling) with countless unanswered questions, long after he had retired to his private quarters and settling in his favorite chair, lit his pipe, to smoke.

                                                                                       ~

 

The rest of the night Fradel Rurik Korvald meanwhile, was most solicitously tended to by Zaur Stugr, who remained quite unwilling to leave his side. The attention poured on Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), was unrelenting and tiresome; therefore, Nevetsecnuac, at the risk of offending his host, finally requested in the politest of terms, reminding Zaur of his appointment with Ronterron Zuke the subsequent day, that he be allowed to retire for three or four hours of respite. This aim achieved, Nevetsecnuac finally reclined on his bed, not to sleep but to direct (pin) his thoughts and to prepare at least mentally, for the challenges that lay ahead, focusing, specifically beyond the subsequent day.

“I must not fail.” was the last murmured sentence (mumble) on his lips as he eventually drifted off into a blissful sleep in the wee (small) hours of the night, his conscience finally in complete accord with his reasoning mind.

 

                                                                                 ~

 

 

(END OF SECTION 7 – BOOK 12- LON- THE PORTENDED PERIL)

 

 

(LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC RESUMES IN NEXT POST- BOOK 13- LON- THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR)

 

 12- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE PORTENDED PERIL - SECTION 6

“What?” Zaur snapped, then caught Quinher’s concerned look and, relenting, gave his friend the look of apology for his rudeness.

01- PHYSICIAN QUINHER YUNGAR  (3)

The physician’s empathetic eyes meet Zaur’s briefly as he then thoughtfully, stroked his sparse beard. “Well, I f…feel I should inform you t…that t…there is an s…slight p…probability he m…may t…take a t…turn for the worse. In t…that eventuality, t…there is only one m…more d…drastic m…measure I c…can... administer…to him.”  Then he reached into his (medicine) bag and withdrew a flask. His index finger traced the strange label on the potent application (concoction) with a query in his eyes (pupils). He explained that, in the eventuality Fradel Rurik Korvald took a turn for the worse, this would either hasten the unfortunate scholar’s untimely demise or reverse the illness, granting him his life back once more, though the aftereffects were as bad as the disease. Noting the pain in Zaur’s eyes however, he decided to withhold rest of the truth from him. Taking a deep breath and letting go of the tension, for his stuttering always worsened when he was anxious or uneasy, he rose from the chair and came around to place a placating hand on Zaur’s shoulder. “Hopefully, we will not n…need it, eh? Now go. You will b…be informed at once if t…there will be any….c…change.”

Acquiescing, Zaur Stugr thanked Quinher for all that he had accomplished already, and then, since there was nothing constructive (further) he could do there, he turned and hastily left the room. Zaur rushed his steps down the narrow corridor, to reach his other study, expecting to receive certain intel any minute. He was in fact, most anxious to talk to his men, which had been dispatched an hour ago in pursuit of the likely (suspected) culprit, and to learn, what progress had been made thus far.

Earlier, while Fradel Rurik Korvald was being tended to by the physician Quinher, Zaur Stugr hand briefly snuck away to the next room to examine the suspect garment and upon his careful examination (scrutiny), he had discovered the tiny poisonous pin fastened underneath the jeweled cufflink. This had proved most helpful in providing the correct diagnosis and the treatment of the symptoms, since it had provided positive identification of the suspected venom. And even though the near invisible, tiny prick on Fradel Rurik Korvald’s wrist had drawn only neglectable drop of blood, it had nevertheless been quite effective, as the poison was absorbed through the skin anyway. Now this particular (singular) poison being so rare and so hard to procure (get hold of), the only likely (probable) architect had to be the Dark Eunuch. Zaur had acted swiftly in dispatching his men to apprehend the collaborating culprits on the slight chance they were still alive and, to force confession out of them. While he waited for their return, Zaur turned his attention to the assembled servants that had failed him. He remained furious with all the staff assigned to Fradel Rurik Korvald, particularly Cholden.

02- HEAD STUARD CHOLDEN

Zaur’s icy glare sweeping over the assembled group silently chastised them for their dereliction of duty, even though deep down he knew, and had to concede (admit), that they could have done truly little to prevent this (impending) disaster. Thus, forgoing (abandoning) the long-winded reprimand, Zaur hissed out a contemptuous breath and sternly dispensed his harsh reprisals, for the sake of maintaining strict discipline. After their dismissal, he sat down with a heavy heart, to ponder on the future means (efforts, methods), with which to minimize the harm (damage). Unavoidable, Zaur’s mind reverted to the supposed (gaged) conspirators and the mastermind Egil Viggoaries who had devised this evil scheme before his departure from Channing; this made Zaur’s fists clench in irate fury.

Unable to sit still any longer, Zaur bolted (sprung) to his feet and began pacing the room back and forth; for secretly he knew, despite his wishful hope what the impending results would be. Subsequently, he was not surprised, not in the least, when his men came back empty handed and reported the eventual demise of the culprits, from an accidental fire, no less. It was a sudden, fierce one that at great expense been contained from spreading, but not before it had completely gutted the shop (establishment) and claimed the lives of the proprietor and the staff working for him (his employees). Hence no legitimate evidence could be had, not now, not ever.

Zaur had received this report sitting stiffly upright in his armchair positioned by the fireplace (hearth), his face showing no emotion, a perfect mask, though inwardly his disappointment and seething rage were barely contained. Long after the dismissal of his men he sat motionless with a wry grimace affixed to his lips as he contemplated his other options and brooded over the lost opportunities in the event of Fradel Rurik Korvald’s demise or failure to show up for tomorrow’s appointment with Ronterron Zuke, never mind the summons, for both amounted to the same thing. As it was, Zaur had every confidence in Quinher’s ability, since he had seen him work miracles in the past; but, even if the scholar could be rescued from the jaws of death, he could not be expected to recover fully in time and be fit enough, to keep his appointment with Ronterron Zuke, by the subsequent day.

Zaur Stugr huffed and shifted in his seat; he had delayed the inevitable long enough, now he must pay an urgent visit to the Prime Minister and inform His Excellency of this disaster before the news reached him through other means. It would be atypical of that despicable Dark Eunuch not to have arranged this aspect (phase, consequence) of the strike. Before Zaur could act on this decision however, an urgent word from Physician Quinher, sent Zaur rushing back to Fradel Rurik Korvald’s side.

As Zaur entered the room, he heard Fradel Rurik Korvald’s vociferous (vocal, uttered) entreating (imploring) with his mother, in an obviously delirious state, for her forgiveness. Zaur gave Quinher a questioning glance.

“Although its m…may not appear so n…now, it is s…still a p…positive sign.” Quinher halting what he was doing, smiled at Zaur reassuringly. “He m…may p…pull t…through after all.”

Zaur Stugr signaled the physician to follow him outside, but Quinher anticipating his next question, answered him grimly with a shake of his head, “I am afraid his c…complete recovery will t…take a week at least. He will not b…be able to attend the appointment with Ronterron Zuke, t…tomorrow.”

The anticipated words, nevertheless, weighed like lead on Zaur’s heart.

“T…take s…solace, at least he w…will not d…die. Not immediately, a…anyway.”  Quinher’s subsequent, consoling words were ignored, as Zaur Stugr, for the first time feeling vulnerable, turned his back on the physician, knit his brows in deep dismay and stormed out of the room. In the ensuing minutes Zaur strolled aimlessly through the exquisite garden, his head down while he racked his brains for the apt solution…Searching for the right course of action to take.

03- MINISTER OF CEREMONY ZAUR STUGR (KOZUR LEADER) JP

The worst had been averted, true, but they were not out of the woods yet. How best to extricate from this impending disaster? His Highness was well known for his intolerance of failure; yet he could not, in pre-emptive (preventative, defensive) move, throw it all away (flee or order self-destruct); not after years of the extensive effort of establishing bond and entrenching members of the Organization into the (key) core administrative body within the Capital. The blame was his, for not considering this inevitability, (albeit its unlikelihood). How could he have been so complacent, so short-sightedly unwise as to have underestimated his foe?

                                                                                 …….

All this while, despite Nevetsecnuac’s physical comatose state, his mind fully cognisant, he had observed the beehive activity around him. The chatter of sounds though discernable at first, as time went by, gradually became more muted. Abruptly his body, which had been up till then weighted down like a huge boulder becoming immersed in a brilliant light, his soul lifted from the listless body and ascended (soared) towards the ceiling. He was at present floating in mid-air light as a feather, and looking down on his listless, rigid corpus (physical body).

“Am I dead?” Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) recalling the earlier incidental prick on his wrist, loudly queried, but the silhouetted figures below gave no response (no inclination), neither hearing nor seeing his apparition that floated about in the room. Dismayed, he quietly reprimanded (reproached) self for his inaction earlier and, for being so remiss.

I should have; I should have…What? He quickly realized that there was little he could have done to alter the past. At one-point Nevetsecnuac drawing closer and looking over the shoulder of attending physician Quinher, he observed Quinher’s meticulous care. Avidly he followed the physician’s ingenious application of acupuncture, the precision punctures (stabs, piercings) to stabilize his lifeforce (pulse) and more importantly, stem the spread (flow) of poison from reaching the vital organs. Nevetsecnuac observed furthermore, the unique method with which the poison was extracted (leeched) from his body.

On the verge of complete success however, suddenly Quinher’s brows knit in deep dismay; a surprise setback, the anon discoloration of the skin on arm, neck, and face, added to the other visible symptoms (signs) manifesting now on Scholar’s (vitals and) limp body, clearly perturbed (disconcerted) hard working Quinher. He took in a long, exasperated breath and exhaling deeply, looked away.

Despite all, the patient was still at death’s door!

Quinher wiped away the sweat from his forehead and reaching over, picked up the cup containing the rest of the antidote but then after a momentary deliberation, he vehemently shook his head and put it down again. He had already administered the safe, right dosage to the patient; any more would bring serious harm to his vitals. There had to be another way! Refusing to concede therefore, he wracked his brains for that most allusive (circuitous) resolution that currently escaped him.

Intrigued, Nevetsecnuac reached for the same cup resting on the side table, but since he was unable to pick it up, for his hand went right through it, he contented himself with bending over and sniffing the contents, the small measure of the fluid, which had been left in it.

The rare, pungent smelling antidote, in diluted crab-apple and honey mix solution, was unlike anything Nevetsecnuac had known. Though his uncle Lord Asger had schooled him extensively on the variety of toxins and corresponding cures, this one being a mystery, Nevetsecnuac was pondering on its origin, when the room suddenly flooded in a blinding luminescence.

“No, I cannot leave… Not yet! I must return to my body.” Nevetsecnuac clung to the bedpost in protest, resisting being carried off by the sudden tempestuous rush of air that had at that moment inundated the entire room. But despite all his exerted effort, his grip was still violently torn away, and he was (sucked) propelled with incredible force into the whirlwind.

04 B - NEVETSECNUAC'S SURREAL EXPERIENCE

From there he was cast into a great void, where which he weightlessly floated within this dark, limitless expanse; and unfortunately, no matter which direction he glided (drifted), he always returned to the selfsame spot, or rather, it felt like that, for there was no variation of any kind in the eternal, infinite abyss.

At one point however he envisioned he was in midst of a sky over the vast forbidden icy peaks, whose summits were in the clouds, reaching up to Heavens. His hair was now completely white and there were dragons in the sky and a devastating whirlwind, a hurricane force winds over the planet Earth. Then came the fragmented images of the ground below that were utterly desolate, covered by ice and snow as far as the eye could see.

Despite the hopelessness of his situation, Nevetsecnuac was not one to give up so easily; relentlessly therefore, he strove to escape his dire, nightmarish entrapment till he expended every ounce of his vigour (energy). In the end, his heart pounding (hammering) fiercely in his chest, his breath heaving, he lowered his head in sad resignation. This outcome, had to have been, Heaven’ ordained.

“No, it was not.”  A gentle sound countered (contradicted this notion).

Nevetsecnuac reeled (turned) to see who had ejected those words and saw a beautiful, distinguished, noble lady floating towards him.

Are your Ladyship, a friend, or a foe? He was about to ask, when she with hurtful eyes, reading his mind, disappointedly, shook her head.

“You forgot your own mother, the one who gave you life?” she choked the hurtful words out, as her glistening tearstained eyes rested on him. “But then, you were ripped from (my bosom) my arms, in your infancy.” Lowering her head, she mumbled mournfully. “By rights I should have no cause for regrets for Lord Asger has sacrificed so much and (he has) devoted his whole life to bringing you up so righteously. You have lacked neither love nor attention.”

05-NEVETSECNUAC'S MOTHER ( INGRIT, ALSO KNOWN AS ARNORA )

“Mother?”  Nevetsecnuac, overcoming his shock, reverently bowed his head to her. It was all he could do in his buoyant (floating) form, to show his high regard (proper respect) to his mother. “Please, mother, forgive my impertinence, I…”

“It’s all right, son.” she interrupted him, opening her arms for an embrace. Rushing (floating) into each other’s arms both mother and son hugged (clasped) each other and sobbed.

“But this is no time for rejoicing or consolation either.”  Momentarily, curtailing her emotions, she drew away. Drying her eyes she spoke with affection, “I have come here, in disobedience (infringing, breaching) of the divine rules, on an urgent task. Your honourable father should have been the one to mend the error in your latest judgement and then guide you back on the right course, except that he is furious with you. He can be so obdurate (inflexible, obstinate) at times.”  She shook her head in exasperation.

“No matter; when he was distracted, I managed to get away (sneak away).”  She exhaled deeply and composed herself. “Listen, my precious, we are all aware of the turmoil that has been plaguing (afflicting) your heart and mind. You are a loyal, filial son but your recent, disagreeable experiences and odd events have deceptively, altered your perspicacity (logic, discernment, and wisdom). Please do not interrupt as I have truly little time to spare. Besides, its dangerous for you to linger in this abyss, an ambit (domain) between two realms of existence, too long. You could be permanently (eternally) trapped here, forfeiting your soul to the…” She shuddered, looked about her fearfully, unable to bring herself to even utter the name.

Nevetsecnuac, intuitive self however, suddenly tensed, as the name STHETOR manifested in his brain. But who was Shetor? Why did it evoke such dread…. There were also other disjointed words, such as ….  Nevetsecnuac’s mother’s voice, however, just then snapped him out from his private cogitations (deliberations).

When she’d spoken up again, understandably, her tone now was most urgent: “Please heed my words son, this is not about filial piety or righteous vengeance, though in part it could be construed as such; souls who had been condemned to roam the Earth or forever trapped in the eternal void, after your combat, finally vindicated, will be free (released) to enter Heaven. Yet your part (role) in all of this entails much, much more. You, my beloved, has been ordained by Heaven, to function as the instrument of Fate. Yes, on rare occasions it rests solely on the shoulders of a single individual (being) or,” dropping her head she inaudibly mumbled, “in this case also on another, hmm…The enviable bond between the two of y…” She abruptly curtailed (held) her tongue, and looking up at him, apologetically smiled. “But I digress; do you really think that it was by coincidence that you were lured out of the mountain abode prematurely? No, Heaven works in mysterious ways! If you do not go through with this, or if you fail, consequences, which I will now enumerate succinctly, will befall Wenjenkun: Zakhertan Yozdek has had a premonition, a warning; acting on it, he will execute Senior Grand Secretary Qarzten Caimund, the key component in future providence, sooner than he intended. If Zakhertan dies however, Qarzten will escape this catastrophe and Wenjenkun will be safe for a time under his competent rule. This will grant the heroes of Wenjenkun, a requisite, most valuable time to fulfill their fate (lot in life, their calling). If on the other hand Zakhertan lives, countless will perish, among them, Lord Asger, Fradel Rurik Korvald, my grandson Alric Svein, my granddaughter Lueling.”  She halted her speech at this point to dry her eyes, then choking back her emotions, she continued. “Instead of fulfilling their great destinies, they will be instead captured and in chains brought to Channing, to be tortured and ignominiously executed at the hand of that bloodthirsty Zakhertan Yozdek. That is the ill fate that will befall them. You must, therefore, do your utmost to eradicate Zakhertan Yozdek, this great evil of Wenjenkun. His reign is at an end anyhow; two years from now, because of a hunting accident which will permanently incapacitate (cripple) Zakhertan Yozdek, he would meet his imminent demise (death). By then the festering factional infighting, however, would have cast (plummet) the nation into a civil war, fueled in part by Deng Hedenko and those affiliated with Korion. During this time, the devastation in Wenjenkun will be insurmountable (immeasurable). After the eventual conquest of Wenjenkun, under the ruthless dominion of Emperor Deng Hedenko, the destructive elements would be so catastrophic that Wenjenkun as a nation would simply cease to exist.”  She shook her head grimly and paused, to simply allow it all to sink in. “On the other hand, succeeding in your noble aim… well, let’s just say that Heaven has given us a rare second chance.”  She smiled sweetly, reassuringly.

Mysteriously (inexplicably), through an innate magical power, Nevetsecnuac was then able to read succinctly, the arrested (checked), forbidden info, in her mind. “Wenjenkun (hardened by the fires of defeat) will rise again from the ashes to, one day under the leadership of its then benevolent Emperor, Alric Svein (the great-grandson of Zuronghan Therran Valamir), to become the mightiest, enduring nation for centuries to come. Wenjenkun, Korion, and even Kontu united under one benevolent ruler, will enjoy the lasting peace and prosperity.”

“Now, son, close your eyes and bid your soul to return to your body. You must strive, with all your might (vigour), to live again. Having said what I came to say, I shall now bid you my fond farewells, my most beloved son.”

Her words echoed in the void as she disappeared before Nevetsecnuac could respond with his own reassertion of eternal affection and gratitude to her. With his eyes misted shut, he followed her advice.

 

 

(END OF SECTON 6)

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