LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITAL - SECTION 19

After Nevetsecnuac had consumed his evening repast (meal), he sat down in front of the fireplace and, letting his gaze fall on the dancing flames, waited in thoughtful silence.  At any given moment he expected his late-night visitor to knock at his door, and it was not long before his wait was rewarded.

As anticipated, the stranger, holding a jug of choice wine and two cups, appeared on some pretext and, after knocking, peered in, he then asked to be invited inside.

Nevetsecnuac assented and rising to his feet with reserve, motioned with outstretched hand and half-inclined head, "Please do come in.  I've been expecting your visit."

01- ZUNROGO TUGO - JP 25

The captain grimaced wryly, then nodded, entered, and turned to close the door cautiously behind him.  Bowing his head politely, but never taking his eyes off Fradel, he introduced himself as Zunrogo Tugo, Captain of the Palace Guards.

“What?  Zunrogo Tugo; have I heard the name, right?  What are the odds of this happening?”  Nevetsecnuac tensed, recalling what Zhadol had said about this man and his accomplice to Yennic, “Though they may be insignificant in the scheme of things, they have powerful backing and they're treacherous, devoid of all conscience.  That's what makes them deadly for you.”  

Nevetsecnuac’s perfect, serene mask (demeanor) had not changed in the least.  Smiling tightly, he returned the bow and introduced himself as the itinerant scholar, Tonng Yennik.  Noting at once the flicker of displeasure, then of cool calculation in the depth of Zunrogo Tugo’s pupils, Nevetsecnuac smiled inwardly, “As I suspected, you've already checked my identity papers.”

"Delighted to make your acquaintance,” Zunrogo Tugo decided to go along with the charade, at least for the time being.

Tonng Yennik (Nevetsecnuac), a perfect host, motioned the captain to a seat and Zunrogo, deferring the best seat to the Scholar, chose the less comfortable chair.

Zunrogo placed the jug and two empty cups on the small table between them. He proceeded to pour out the wine into one of the cups and then graciously offered the customary draught of friendship, to Tonng Yennik.

Tonng Yennik (Nevetsecnuac), well composed, with thanks accepted the cup of wine and in one gulp drained it; then, filling the other cup, offered it to Zunrogo, reciprocating the gesture. Customary etiquette dispensed with; they soon entered-into a polite conversation.

The topics they discussed, the vast, varying range of their exchange was, in fact, quite irrelevant.  As the two imposing figures, each in turn, mechanically uttered the expected polite rhetoric they were both, underneath it all, intently probing and scrutinizing the other.

Seated across from Tonng Yennik (Fradel), Zunrogo Tugo tried in vain to ferret out the scholar's innermost secrets and gauge his weaknesses, but it was as though Fradel had cocooned his character behind an invincible barrier.  Changing his tack (policy, scheme, ploy) midway, Zunrogo pursued more aggressively and with cunning and trickery, tried to penetrate Fradel's defenses.  When that, too, proved unsatisfactory he tried to subtly goad Fradel towards alternate end.  All the while he felt secure behind the impenetrable wall he kept up around his own personality.

At least that was what he thought.  In this war of acumen and nerves, Nevetsecnuac (Tonng Yennik /Fradel), with his keen perception and resilience eventually eradicated all the obstacles Zunrogo had laid in his path, to subtly gain the advantage and, under the guise of a seemingly passive, cooperative exchange, attained the insight necessary to formulate his own opinion of Zunrogo Tugo.

02- NEVETSECNUAC AS SHOLAR TONNG YENNIC

 Tallying (adding together all the) facts, Nevetsecnuac (Tonng Yennic, Fradel) noted how much more stalwart and intrepid (resolute, hardy) Zunrogo was; moreover, he was infinitely more treacherous and brutal in innate nature, far more than he’d been noted for.  Zunrogo’s complex mind, the depths of his, not easily decipherable, thoughts and, perhaps purposefully misleading and inconsistent habits, made him an extremely dangerous (perilous, death-defying) adversary.  His voice was his only weak link, if you could call it that, for it betrayed his passionless (uncaring) heart.  Despite Zunrogo’s best efforts to appear cordial and disarming in the exchange, there was an underlying intonation of dire indifference and obdurate (adamant) superiority.

“Cold-blooded, arrogant assassin that you are, I know it is not your aim to assassinate (murder) me; or you would have attempted it, long before this meeting.” Nevetsecnuac from the corner of his eye furtively studied this sure foe. “Nevertheless, I expect you will next try astounding me (considering your earlier findings,) with your startling disclosure that you are aware I am Fradel Rurik Korvald; then, after a terse period, magnanimously (rush in to) confer your generous offer of assurance, of safe conduct to the Capital.  And, of course, I'll appear aghast and pretend to let my guard down before, gratefully conceding.  But what else, you're really, after?  What other sinister scheme is lurking underneath that icy surface?  Yes, of course …” Nevetsecnuac nodded absentmindedly, while outwardly, seemingly, agreeing with the captain's most recently advanced viewpoint.

Adding a few pointers of his own, he continued to assess Zunrogo, “Yes, you are burdened with a far greater task than just the safe delivery of the scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald.  Is this a sample of how your master operates?  Ploy (stratagem) within a ploy; while never leaving anything to chance until everything, no matter how trivial, is considered?  Hmm, I'll wager that even Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren is ignorant of the extent of your duplicity.  Very well, I'll feed you sufficient, deceptive, disarming information for your report.  And when you drop or, relax your vigil, then you’ll be dealt with more decisively; for you are one complication I can do without.”

Impressed by the scholar's brilliance of rhetoric, the captain, for the time being, had been forced to inwardly acknowledge that, since all the observations tallied (matched, checked, fit) accorded) perfectly, his host was indeed the real Fradel Rurik Korvald and not some mastermind impostor who had merely acquired his papers.  Yet, instead of being pleased at the favorable outcome of his search, Zunrogo remained very ill at ease.

“Is it just my suspicious nature?  Has the course of this job made me inherently paranoid?  No, this nagging feeling in the pit of my stomach is real and all my senses collectively, are sounding dire alarm.  Besides, there are few inconsistencies here that need to be ironed out; true, but they alone are not enough to warrant this hunch, this instinct to strike out at him now with all the deadly force I can muster.  He may even put up a good fight, judging by his robust physique.  How could a mere scholar look so strong, even if he has been living in the mountain wilderness, in isolation, for purported many years?  Yet all the points of contention have been satisfied.  I don't doubt my thoroughness.  Even the absence of his servants has been explained.  I suppose I could hold him here and verify his story, but that would squander precious time, one I can ill- afford, if I am to succeed in my mission. On the other hand, my hunches have never erred, not once in my (lifetime) entire life.”

“But what if, just this once, my intuition is leading me astray?  With such grave consequences at stake, how can I justify this sort of rash action? “

 “Besides, once we reach the Capital, there will be ample time to uncover (discover) the truth, and there, there will be no escape for him.  If he's other than what he claims, he will easily be exposed and eradicated.  Now it is time to end this bantering and get on with the task at hand.”

Half the jug had already been consumed even though Nevetsecnuac, aware of his own intolerance, had been most careful in his intake, taking longer and longer to consume the contents of each cup and accepting only toppings instead of the full cups Zunrogo poured himself.  Still, Zunrogo showed only the minimal signs of intoxication and that, Nevetsecnuac suspected, was also a pretense, a farce not unlike their congenial exchange.

"I am aware, sir, that most scholars of your obvious stature take on, for reasons of privacy, a pseudonym (alias).  May I be so bold, then, as to presume that this is also the case with you and to guess your true designation (name)?" Zunrogo said, ignoring Fradel's facade of slight surprise.

Nevetsecnuac studied the captain in silence, purposely prolonging the supposed suspense.  With a totally unreadable expression he then settled back, "You are most perceptive, sir.  Perhaps you will then tell me who it is that you suspect me of really being after which, I expect, you will be kind enough to reveal to me your real purpose for being in my room at this late hour."

Zunrogo took the bait.  "You are, of course, the very illustrious poet Fradel Rurik Korvald and you have been summoned into His Royal Highness' presence."

The scholar's response was not the expression of surprise that Zunrogo would have expected from one less astute than Fradel Rurik Korvald.

"You have me at a disadvantage, sir.  How long have you known?"

"Since your arrival," Zunrogo lied, hiding his admiration. “It’s a pity you chose a literary career, you sir, would have made an excellent statesman.  You have the natural ability for it.”

"Yet you waited until now to confront me with this knowledge?" Fradel frowned and eyed Zunrogo suspiciously.

"I meant no disrespect, honored sir." the captain hastened to apologize then briefly explained his reasons for coming here.

Fradel looked skeptical.  "Please do not take this the wrong way.  You say that you have been charged by the Offices of the Prime Minister, Lamont Gudaren, with the responsibility of ensuring my safe conduct and timely arrival?"

"Yes.  To do otherwise would be a dereliction of my duty, for which I would be severely punished." Zunrogo interrupted to stress the point.

“I doubt that would be the case.” Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) grimaced wryly. 

"Yet, sir, you have neglected to tell me who it is that I require protection from.  As you well know, I have lived in seclusion most of my life, adapting to a stringent, pious lifestyle; this, to get closer to the natural world which I love to write about.  Outside of family, I have not interacted with anyone any significant length of time to incur animosity.  My literary efforts are not political, nor can they be misconstrued as offensive to any of the noble gentry or bureaucratic class.  Even my deceased father had no affiliations whatsoever with any political group, and no enemies to speak of.  Who then would conspire to harm me?  Holger Province is free, as far as I can see, of all bad elements."

“How much do you really know?” Zunrogo raised an eyebrow slightly as he considered Fradel's question. “Oh, but there's no way you could possibly be informed.”

Zunrogo dropped his guard to laugh sourly; after which he said, “To be sure, law and order are strictly upheld in this province but the existing danger to your esteemed self is, none the less, quite real."

"Why do you insist on being cryptic, sir?" Fradel huffed in exasperation.

"I'm sorry.  I wish I could be more obliging (helpful), but I am not at liberty to disclose anything further." Zunrogo shook his head.  "Perhaps once you have safely reached Channing…”

Looking away thoughtfully, he added, "I'll say only this - that it is a political matter."  Returning his gaze to Fradel he added, "Please excuse me for saying this, but your own involvement is purely incidental."

“You just refuse to commit yourself, but I won't let you off the hook that easily.”  Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) stared back, his demeanor unchanged.

 "I do not appreciate evasive answers, Captain.  I would much rather that you be candid with me.  If, as you have suggested, we are to complete the rest of this journey in each other’s company, then I propose that we learn to trust one another, starting now."  Fradel paused to look meaningfully at Zunrogo, who remained in thoughtful silence for a moment.

“I don't know what you mean,” Zunrogo almost said, but then stopped himself.  An amused smile crept across his face, and he broke into a laugh.

"You are far too clever for me, sir."

"Flattery offends me even more, Captain Tugo." Fradel dismissed the remark curtly, maintaining the arrogant bearing of a scholar.

 "Now I must insist on being told the details which pertain to me that is, if you wish to enlist my full cooperation, sir.  Otherwise, I must insist that, we have nothing further to discuss."  Fradel's stare was unrelenting as he leaned back, still watching Zunrogo Tugo with cold, unblinking eyes.

Zunrogo felt hard pressed to reveal the truth, or to find another plausible explanation convincing enough to assuage Fradel's sharp mind. “Why should I even expend the energy to sway this upstart, when a partial truth may serve as well?  The report excluded mention of your stubborn nature.”

Zunrogo’s smile tightened imperceptibly as he burrowed his gaze at Fradel, scrutinizing him intently.  “I don't know how you found out, but you already know, don't you?  Now you want me to commit myself.  Very well, I'll meet your requirements halfway.”

Zunrogo Tugo shifted uneasily in the chair, laughed sourly and, nodding his head, made a show of resignation.

When he leaned forward to speak, his voice was low, but crisp, "Very well, I will oblige you by being frank, but I trust that the subject of this discussion will be held in confidentiality."  He drained his cup, waiting for Fradel's nod of affirmation.

03-ZUNROGO TUGO - JP 24

On receiving it he put back the empty cup, took a breath and continued in an unwavering tone, "You need not be concerned with this, but our Prime Minister, like all eminent men who uphold this effective and strict administration, has incurred the hatred of some powerful enemies who would stop at nothing to undermine his righteous endeavors.  Since it was Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren who recommended your illustrious self to the emperor at court, he feels naturally bound by the responsibility of seeing that your travel should be uninterrupted and comfortable.  This added precaution was taken in the anticipation of possible trouble or in order to preclude even the least unpleasantness from manifesting itself." 

He grinned sheepishly. "I'm sorry if my previous reckless words have magnified the situation and led you to believe that there was real potential for danger here.  I confess, I am somewhat inept at diplomacy, as all military personnel are, I suppose.  I sincerely hope that you will overlook my shortcomings, however, and set your mind at ease.  The danger to your person is only a supposition.  No blatant or obvious threat has been voiced thus far."

“Thus far… You must really believe that I am that naive.” Nevetsecnuac mused. “All right, I'll let that pass for now, besides it is better you think that of me.  From what I've heard, he'd never do that, but go on if you must, keep his name out of it.  Besides, your clumsy attempts to cover up the inconsistencies are growing rather tiresome.”

"In truth," Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), obviously suppressing a yawn, consented amicably, "the trek here has been rather tiresome (dull) if not arduous.  I would, therefore, be most happy to accept your gracious offer of companionship; during the course of which I will look forward to being informed of the latest developments in Channing, so that I won't feel totally out of sorts there."

"I’ll do my best to (oblige) enlighten you.” Zunrogo beamed arrogantly.

“Indeed, so much has transpired even during these last few months, let alone years but I think that I've delayed your sleep long enough.  I will detain you no longer."  Now that he had secured what he wanted, Zunrogo abruptly rose to his feet and, without further ado, he wished Fradel a good night and took his leave.  There were a few neglected details that had been preying on the back of his mind all during their exchange that he wanted to lay to rest before the night was done.

                                                                                      ~

 

(END OF SECTION 19)                                                                             

 

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITAL - SECTION 14

 

“Now, you've heard how Kuric and Ruat had a falling out a while back?"   Zhadol paused to acknowledge the confirming nod from Yennic before continuing, "It’s no secret that, since then, they have become bitter adversaries, always trying to undermine each other.”

01-KURIC AND RUAT

“Sorek’s involvement was quite incidental.  In fact, it is my contention that he was victimized by the malicious slander that started it all.  Chakon, Kuric's brother-in-law, spread it with the hope of gaining much from Sorek's downfall."

"So, it was Chakon who told-on (betrayed) him?"

"No, Chakon doesn't have much clout.  He was only the instrument.  Ruat was behind it all.  He caused Sorek's disgrace after he'd finally succeeded in landing in Kuric, in serious trouble.  I suppose he feared repercussions from Sorek and worked to render him ineffective.  As for the trouble Kuric landed in, well you know Kuric has already been arrested, charged with conspiring with Frenzo in grand larceny and has had all his property confiscated."

"Then there was some truth to that rumor but that's preposterous!  He never even knew Frenzo." Yennic objected.

"None the less, Ruat has produced enough solid, incriminating evidence to prove otherwise.  It is also my contention that this is pure fabrication but who is there to contest it and prove otherwise?  All of Kuric's associates have severed their friendships and dealings with him out of fear.  Some have even fled the Capital, anticipating the ensuing repercussions."

"But not Sorek," Yennic grunted (contradicted).

02- SOREK

"Sorek was a fool,” Zhadol scoffed.  "Still, they couldn't have touched him because of his powerful family but, instead of keeping his mouth shut and laying low for a while, he incited trouble.  Over one trivial word, that's all it took.  Egil Viggoaries's spies, once informed by Ruat, brought this to His Excellency's attention.  Sorek was kidnapped, interrupting his sleep, in the middle of the night and brought before the Black Molochs to give an account of his disrespect.  Instead of cowering before the ensuing secret tribunal and begging Egil Viggoaries's mercy, as any sensible person might do, the fool remained indignant and insisted on the falseness of the charge.  I have no doubt the report was greatly exaggerated to make it come out as it did, but still there was some grain of truth to it.  Anyhow, not only was Sorek whipped senseless, but he was also disgraced by being stripped naked to the waist and …"   Zhadol abruptly fell silent and dropped his head.

 "I have no love for Sorek, you understand," he lifted his eyes, "but I felt that this branding punishment was a bit too severe."

"Is that why you refused to take part in, hmm, “Riding the Colt”, at the informal gathering in wee hours that night in His Excellency’s residence?" Yennic eagerly asked.

"I thought you said you didn't know anything about it?"

"I ran into the physician Coj, who attended on Sorek the next day." Yennic confessed.

"He's an old friend of my father's and I was under his good care when I'd contracted that serious childhood disease, Lurox Sores. Seeing his distraught state, I treated him to some wine, and, in his intoxicated state, he finally opened up to me a little.”

“But that muddle-headed fool Coj was too incoherent with his accounts (facts) to be of much use. Truly, I remained ignorant of the precise details that led up to the punishment till; I'd pieced it all together while I listened to you, just now."

“A likely story,” Nevetsecnuac smiled broadly.

Zhadol, appeared totally taken in (convinced) for, typically, he was blinded by his affection where Yennic was concerned.

"Your mind works quickly." Zhadol complimented.

"Thank you.” Yennic was pleased. “Yet Sorek is from one of the most powerful, old-established families, and their influence has grown further since Her Ladyship, recently the most favorite of His Highness Zakhertan Yozdek, awarded them her patronage.  Surely if anyone could have brought formal charges against His Excellency Egil Viggoaries before His Highness, they could.  Why is it then that Sorek's father chose to cover up this incident?"

"They knew it was useless.  Don't you understand?"   Zhadol looked intently at the Lieutenant.

"Yes," Yennic nodded, comprehending. "It would have been rather pointless for them to pursue the matter.  If it ever did become public knowledge the family would have suffered far worse from the loss of face.  That is why the whole matter was hushed up, swept under the carpet, so to speak, so expeditiously."

"Egil Viggoaries, knowing their weakness, dared to act as he did, choosing the perfect humiliation for one of Sorek's breeding.  In this instance, political power had very little to do with it,” Zhadol summarized.

Yennic knitted his brows, "Yet Sorek's uncle, Chancellor Derez, is known to be a dogged, vindictive man.  How did they manage to keep him out of this?"

03-CHANCELLOR DEREZ

"He's been too wrapped up in his own questionable dealings of late to pay too much attention to family matters.  That extortionist,” Zhadol snorted. "He's the worst of the lot, but he enjoys the protection of you-know-who and no one may speak ill of him or dare to expose his dirty dealings.  You know of the recent case of the Kyu murder?"

Yennic was aghast.  "He wasn't involved in that, was he?"

"Involved," Zhadol sneered.  "He engineered the whole thing."

"You have proof of your allegations?"

"Yes, but I dare not breathe a word of it to anyone other than you.  Anyhow, it’s all been covered up and two other innocent parties have been made to pay for the crime."

"You don't mean that Jekon and Mayoz Dur were innocent, after all," Yennic gasped.

04-JEKON

05-MAYOZ DUR

"Yes, they were.  I found out who had really carried out that gruesome deed."

"But those two confessed to doing it." Yennic insisted in disbelief.

"You, too, would have confessed to anything if you were subjected to the same kind of tortures they had been." Zhadol grimaced.

"They were publicly hanged!  Their families wiped out!" Yennic mumbled grimly, finding it hard to swallow this travesty of injustice.  The revelation had hit him particularly hard.  He recalled being an eyewitness to the executions and, like so many others, feeling a sense of vindication, that is, until now.

 Zhadol was perplexed by Yennic's strange demeanor and noted the strain, his grave expression which Yannic had failed to mask.  He was about to ask why Yennic took this news so hard when he was cut off.

"you’ve said you knew who the real assassins were…tell me before I burst; who were those darn cut-throats?" Yennic hotly demanded.

"Why, by the Heavens, are you getting all worked up for?  It’s all over and done with.  There isn't much that you, or anyone, can do now. Besides, it’s best that you remain ignorant of their identities.  Otherwise, with your hot head…"   Zhadol shook his head dismally, the concern evident in his voice. "With that explosive nature of yours you'll most likely land yourself in serious trouble.  I can't go around saving your neck all the time, you know.  Even I have my limitations."

 He held up a hand to cut short Yennic's bursting response.  "Honestly; it’s best you don't know of it.  I'm finding it hard to live with it myself."  He half turned, shrugging his shoulders, and looking away dispassionately.  "Then again, what's one more heaped on the mountain of injustices?"

Typically, his wise counsel fell on deaf ears as Yennic grasped Zhadol’s arm and swung him around till they were eye to eye.  "No, I must know!  You must tell me!" Yennic implored, charged with emotion.

Stone faced, Zhadol studied Yennic with curiosity. “Why are you being so persistent?  I've never known you to have ever been this emotional about a case before.”

"Don't you see?"  Yennic suddenly dropped Zhadol’s arm then abruptly confessed, "I was made their instrument, or don't you know that?  Of course, you were away on assignment when the case came up.  I helped capture Jekon and Mayoz Dur and deliver them to their unjust end.  I was the arresting officer!"  Yennic dropped his head in remorse.  "Even though they had once done me a good turn and they professed their innocence from the start, I still took them in."  Biting the corner of his lip, he looked up to Zhadol for absolution, "How was I to know?  Could I have acted any differently?"

Clearly Yennic was tormented by guilt and Zhadol nodded in understanding.  By putting his personal feelings aside, Yennic had, as always, done his utmost to impress his Superior.  Perhaps this once should have delved deeper into the reasons for it.

 "Then this portends (augurs) even more trouble."   Zhadol shook his head, "I'm sorry, Yennic, but..."  Yennic's contemptuous look froze the words on his tongue.

"You think so little of me?" Yennic turned his head away in dejection.

"If I do tell you their names, will you promise not to stir up trouble?"   Zhadol was softening.  "Promise me you won't go after them, for to do so would result only in your own undoing.  You'll be framed for some crime, or worse found lying dead in some ditch within a month.  You're too small a fish to fry and, though they may be insignificant in the scheme of things, they have powerful backing and they're treacherous, devoid of all conscience.  That's what makes them deadly for you."

"Yes,” Yennics responded. “I’ll take that into consideration.  I promise I won't do anything foolish; now, tell me who they are and, since this matter is so delicate, tell me how you found out about it."

"How I found out is not important, but..."

Yennic grasped Zhadol’s arm, squeezing it tight.  He already surmised how Zhadol had found out; the way he always found out about everything.  "You were about to tell me their names.  Stop all this stalling and tell me.  Tell me now!"

"You're out of line, Lieutenant!"   Zhadol jerked his arm free then, despite his better judgment, relented.  "It’s none other than Zunrogo Tugo and Gaos Zunkur."

These names, of course, meant nothing to Nevetsecnuac but he saw their profound effect on Yennic who, with clenched fist, gritted his teeth under snarling lips and dropped his head.

Concern registered on Zhadol’s face and, for the third time he reminded Yennic of his promise of constraint.  In his heart he knew, of course, that Yennic would break it for the Lieutenant had many other reasons for hating Zunrogo Tugo, especially Zunrogo.

06 - ZUNROGO TUGO JP 5

This latest bit had just added to the long list of grievances Yennic harbored against the man.  Yet this seeming calm on Yennic's part particularly alarmed Zhadol.  He would rather have seen Yennic explode with his predictable, searing rage, swearing abuse, and calling for hot, sweet revenge but nothing, not even a grunt or a muttered curse passed through those lips.  The brutal glint in his eye spoke volumes, however, about the inner resentment festering within him.

“Why are you holding me responsible?”  Zhadol shot back a questioning glance.

This unnerving silence had lasted only seconds but to all three it had seemed as though a far longer period had elapsed.

"Come now, we've been away long enough."   Zhadol placed a gentle, reassuring hand on Yennic's shoulder.

"The dawn should soon be upon us.  Let us return and get some shut eye."

Yennic responded with a mute nod then sprung smartly to his feet.  Halting briefly, they relieved themselves under the very tree in which Nevetsecnuac was hiding.  The cool breeze fanned their faces and delighted their senses as they lent a casual ear to distant hooting and the flapping of wings.

 

 

(END OF SECTION 14)

                                                                                       ~

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITAL - SECTION - 12

"But what’s with this entire hullabaloo (commotion) over scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald?"  Yennic's question grabbed anew Nevetsecnuac's full attention.

 "Why has he been drawn into this conflict?  I mean, why he specifically, when more brilliant, articulate poets reside close at hand to His Highness?"

01- BRILLIANT SCHOLAR

"I know who you're referring to,” Zhadol grimaced wryly, "but he would hardly do.  It’s not the quality of the Scholar's work that is in question here.  Well, maybe a little bit."   Zhadol shook his head.

"More specifically, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren’s recommendation of Fradel Rurik Korvald was politically motivated.  He aimed, of course, to further ingratiate himself in Her Ladyship's good graces while she still enjoys the good graces of His Highness.  Since Lady Sejon has acquired a certain fondness for this poet's earlier works and was intrigued by his elusiveness, his required presence in the upcoming event is merely an exercise in power."

"Is it as trivial as that?" Yennic smirked.

"Trivial it may be, but Fradel Rurik Korvald is another strategically placed pawn on the game board of the two rival factions.  Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren knows, and cultivates, Her Ladyship's particular dislike of Egil Viggoaries and, as already her favored uncle, he aims to…"

"I understand." Yennic interrupted impatiently and completed Zhadol’s line of reasoning. “Lady Sejon, an enchanting beauty (of about twenty-three years old, with clear blue eyes and long wavy, golden hair,) is the Emperor Zakhertan Yozdek’s most recent, favored, chief consort.” Yennic could not resist boasting of his knowledge, so he simply rattled on.

02- LADY SEJON YOZDEK (2)JP

“She is particularly important, since she is also the mother of fourth Prince Prince Magnian, who is by all accounts, a little darling, captivating all courtiers ‘hearts at five years of age. Besides which Lady Sejon also happens to be the P.M Lamont Gudaren’s much beloved, deceased, third sister’s daughter, is she not? The Prime Minister, through her, hopes to effectively slander His Excellency Egil Viggoaries; however, if Fradel Rurik Korvald fails to appear for the summons, it will reflect badly on Lamont Gudaren, and Her Ladyship's tolerance of failure is not unlike that of His Highness."

"Precisely," Zhadol nodded.

"Still, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren has no doubt-built safeguards against this inevitability." Yennic asserted his fresh argument.  "He wouldn't launch any idea without first having a foolproof backup in place.  Besides, aren't you always counseling me not to take things at face value?  It’s no secret how the Prime Minister's tentacles extend far beyond the Court itself into several provinces where, as I understand, several governors and viceroys are his clients. “

“At least twice Egil Viggoaries's age, he's nevertheless calculating and far-sighted and his political strategies are supremely effective.  He has a hand in most of the conspiracies.  His agents are dispersed widely across the Empire such that there is little that escapes his attention.  But so far, his forces and wide influence have been seemingly kept in check by His Excellency Egil Viggoaries who, rightly so, is shrewder and far more ruthless.  Am I right?"

"Yes, yes.  Why are you telling me what we already know?  What's your point and what do you mean by 'seemingly'?

"My point is that contrary to P. M. Lamont Gudaren’s belief, what if Dwengzur is, in fact, collaborating in one of Egil Viggoaries’s diabolical plots and we've been sent on a false trail, chiefly to get us out of harm's way?  Why should it be inconceivable that, in this instance, even His Excellency may be duped with the diversion of an upcoming assassination attempt on His Highness?"

"A conspiracy… Is that what all this has been leading up to?"  Zhadol shook his head.

"That's highly improbable and, I should say, too premature.  Even if Dwengzur did secretly align with Field Marshall Yonku, Chancellor Tiver and the rest of the Prime Minister's despicable lackeys against Egil Viggoaries, it would be sheer madness for them to try anything.  The forces that have been dispatched, including us, constitute a relatively small contingent of the Elite Divisions.  The main body, as far as I know, is still stationed in the Capital and our absence has not even made a small dent in the scope of things."

03-COMMANDER ZHADOL AND HIS LIEUTENANT YENNIC

Relentlessly, with a calculating gleam in his eye, Yennic inclined towards Zhadol and suggested, "Still, we've been quite out of touch here, Zhadol.  Suppose that, after our departure, the rest were dispersed as well on other pretexts."

"You’re not suggesting… the Imperial Guards?” Zhadol shook his head.  "Not likely.  You know they can't be bribed.  And there's the flaw in your hypothesis.”

“Besides, despite the low profile His Highness prefers to keep, he still maintains absolute rule in all facets of the Government and the Military.  Everything is closely monitored and passes only when it receives His Highness' seal of approval.

“Zakhertan Yozdek’s Secret Police, aside from the Internal Census Bureau, are so potent that no one would dare make the slightest move.  They would cut down the instant they tried anything treasonous.

"Oh, but what a fantastic imagination you have!" Zhadol laughed heartily, throwing his head back.  "You always manage to entertain me when I'm least expecting it, brightening up my darkest moods.  I confess, for a moment there I almost took you seriously.  You almost duped me into thinking you were in earnest.  Go on; elaborate more on your conspiracy theory if you please."

Yennic was thoroughly annoyed at the Commander's condescension but, with an effort, unclenched his fist and masked his fury.  Grimacing sheepishly, he played along in shamed naiveté, "Yet His Highness allows the two factions that contend for power to grow in strength daily."

"In fact, His Highness encourages it."

"Is that not disruptive to the State?" Yennic asked wide-eyed.

"On the contrary," Zhadol smiled knowingly, "I should think that it strengthens the State."

“Quite right,” Nevetsecnuac acknowledged. “As long as these two are kept feuding with each other, there's no danger of either of them usurping the usurper.  It’s a simple, but effective textbook strategy.  The moment one of them topples the other, the overconfident victor, in his exhausted state, can easily be vanquished (eliminated)”.

"All right, then, maybe it’s not a national conspiracy.  Maybe it’s you and I that are targeted.  Maybe we're the ones who are being set up." Yennic growled  his insistent, despondent retort.

Strangely enough, at that moment a cloud of concern brushed Zhadol’s face.  He knitted his brows and, narrowing his eyes, studied the Lieutenant intensely but, shaking his head to quickly disperse the questions and suspicions that invaded (encroach) his mind, he rebuked Yennic, "You're talking nonsense again.  I don't see why.  Even if it was his intention to rid himself of us, there were ample other avenues, more plausible and less costly alternatives that could have been (employed) utilized."

04- NEVETSECNUAC  UP IN A TREE LISTENING

“His intention…”  Nevetsecnuac was intrigued.  “Was that a slip of the tongue?”

 

"Besides, you're overrating your own importance."  Zhadol turned sharply and, despite himself, sneered maliciously at Yennic.  Obviously, something of what was said had touched a raw nerve in him.

Yennic wondered, “Could some of the rumors that have been circulating have some validity after all?  If so, there's too much at stake here.  I mustn't act rashly.”

Yennic knew enough when to back off.  Rising in silence, Yennic began pacing back and forth, irritated.  “It had taken him many long, painstaking months to worm his way into Zhadol’s confidence.  Jeopardizing that now would have far more serious repercussions, yet his impatient nature gnawed at him, egging him on to act now… All right, how about a different angle of approach?”  He stole a sidelong glance at Zhadol, who was lost in thoughtful silence with his blank gaze, all the same, tracking Yennic.

Halting his steps abruptly, Yennic turned and said, "Well, if that cursed scholar is going to show up, I wish he'd hurry up with it.  The men have been quite restless for some time for some serious action.  They may prove unruly if we wait much longer."

"Now, Yennic, are you really speaking for the men, or for yourself?"  Zhadol, quite disarmed, smiled and stroked his beard.

Yennic looked away in agitation, not returning the smile.  Hand grasping the hilt of his sword, he turned his fiery gaze back on Zhadol and stamped his foot like an impatient child. 

“Yes, I admit it; I’ve had just about enough with all this waiting.  My sword is thirsting for his blood.  I can hardly wait to present his learned head to His Excellency."

"Why, I didn't realize that you were so ambitious, Yennic."  Zhadol frowned with mock displeasure to lighten the other's mood.  "Are you, by any chance, now planning to go over my head and curry favors from His Excellency for yourself."

"Oh, I wouldn't be so presumptuous."  Yennic rushed over to sit beside the Commander and shook his head.  "Nor would I have the nerve.  I know fully well my own shortcomings, and I've seen something of His Excellency's whims and tempers.  I wouldn't have a prayer for a chance."  Looking into Zhadol’s eyes, he added in a sincere, earnest tone, "I'm far safer where I am; under your good guidance and your protective wing."

Pleased with this unexpected praise, Zhadol smiled and nodded.  Fixing his gaze on the other, he counseled him in an affectionate, concerned voice, "Don't take this to heart, but you really are too impetuous for your own good, Yennic.  You know that don't you?"  He waited for the other's nod of assent before he resumed, "Granted, I was once just like you.  I, too, acted rashly, bursting with youthful vigor but now, things are far more complicated, far too dangerous.  You say that you'll never go over my head to curry favor with Egil Viggoaries."  He shook his head and raised his hand, "No, wait!  I suspect that you firmly believe that now but one day, when you've outgrown me, that will be your intention.  I'd like to caution you beforehand not to act too rashly.”

“Don’t make the slightest move until you're ascertained your-self tenfold of the outcome.  Egil Viggoaries 's inner circle, I'm referring to the Black Molochs, play for serious stakes and, if you're not strong enough, they'll swallow you up, crush your dignity and strip off your self- respect beyond any repair.  I've had my own share of regret and pain in the past as I came up the ladder.  I thought that I was ready, too, when I entered the playing field," Zhadol could not hide the bitterness from his voice, "but they exposed weaknesses in me I never knew I had.  I'm fond of you, so I want you to take the counsel of one who's already been there.  If nothing else, I'd like to spare you from my own (humiliation and) heartaches.”

“For now, however, you would do well to exercise caution, cultivate perseverance and curb your ambition a little.  You're bold, too bold for your own good if you ask me."

"Old age has made you weary." Yennic teased to lighten the gravity of Zhadol's mood but, seeing the frown on the other's face, quickly retracted his gibe.

 In a sincere tone, he added, "I do appreciate your concern, Zhadol, and I promise I'll mend my ways… all right?”

Zhadol was appeased and, the next moment, they had both put their heads together in an animated, inaudible conversation.  Yennic gesticulated wildly and went on, his lips twisting into a provocative smile one minute, a savage sneer the next.

Nevetsecnuac was about to take his leave when Yennic asked with clear concern, "The trouble between you and Egil Viggoaries, tell me, has it passed?  Are you back- in- his-good- graces now that you've been invited to that?"

"Ah, that's it; it’s finally out!"  Zhadol smiled coldly, interrupting the Lieutenant.

 "So that's what's really been praying on your mind all night?  I'd guessed as much because of what happened, but you need not have taken such a roundabout way to it.  Why didn't you just come right out and ask me at the start?"

Seeing the uselessness of denial, Yennic conceded with lowered head, "I wasn't certain how you would react."

This may prove interesting.  Nevetsecnuac nodded and decided to stay a while longer.

"All right but first tell me the exact details of what you have heard concerning this,” Zhadol prompted (pressed) Yennic.

"Nothing too specific," Yennic grunted.  "Only that you defied His Excellency's wish on some matter or other and that he was seriously cross with you."

"And that was enough to give you cause for alarm?"

"Certainly," Yennic nodded.

"It’s very good of you to be so concerned about my welfare," Zhadol smiled broadly, "but I assure you, things have been pacified.  You needn’t worry about me any longer.  I haven't survived this long for nothing, you know.  However, don't think for a moment that I haven't paid dearly for it."  Zhadol gritted his teeth and absentmindedly rubbed the back of his neck.  "You know how Egil Viggoaries carries a grudge.  I suspect that, one day, it will all come back to haunt me all over again and compound my miseries.  My mistakes are tolerated somewhat at present because I have not yet outlived my usefulness and because I once meant something more to him."

"As well, being one of the twelve of the Inner Circle of the Black Molochs helps." Yennic interjected.

"I have well-earned that distinction!"  Zhadol studied the Lieutenant from the corner of his eye.

"No one would dispute that.  At least you were once his favorite." Yennic mumbled, envying Zhadol’s position.  "Precious few can own up to that prestigious, most coveted distinction.  Surely you can't discount the benefits you've reaped, the favors you've received from the ones who have rushed to ingratiate themselves with you?"

"Do you think that this was a privilege that made up for all the warring, truculent existence and degradation?"   Zhadol shook his head, smiling bitterly, "You don't know what it is that you’re wishing for.  You can't imagine what I had to go through and do; to what ends I was driven to satisfy his perverse appetite for suffering."   Zhadol dropped his head, as if in shame.   "Some of the things he made me do!"  His features crunched up as he meekly ejected, "Yennic, even now, I can't bear to even think of them."

“Yet you call me ambitious!” Yennic scoffed under his outward visage of sympathy.

"After all that, after all I'd done for him, how readily he turned on me that night!"   Zhadol looked up, indignation firing his eyes.  "It is true what they secretly whisper about him, that he is devoid of any decent human feelings, least of all compassion.  And his cruelty, his cruelty knows no bounds.  He feasts on bloodshed and delights in humiliating others.  Hah, he's a carbon copy of one whose name I dare not mention aloud!  Many a time I was the unfortunate target of his rage, those sudden and violent outbursts but..."   Zhadol abruptly fell silent.  "We've got company," he whispered as he jutted (stuck out) his chin pointing in the direction of a pair of watchful eyes.

Yennic stirred slightly, clutching the hilt of his sword, and was about to suddenly spring into action when the gleaming eyes receded in a flash and darted back into the bush.  The next instant two pairs of scuttling feet were heard pattering into the distance.

 Zhadol grasped Yennic's arm, holding him back.  "Let it be.  Foxes are strange, unpredictable creatures."  He nodded thoughtfully as the Lieutenant complied, settled back.  "You want to know something, Yennic?  Egil Viggoaries has a strange passion for them; it may even be called an obsession.  It may have something to do with an incident that happened when he was barely seven.  He had accompanied Zakhertan Yozdek on a hunting expedition to Kaporelon.  Seeing this as a mark of privilege and high favor, Egil Viggoaries was determined to prove his own worth."

"Wasn't he then made to…,” Yennic looked down, bit the corner of his lip then quickly added, “to punish the spirited animal that had given them quite a chase?"

"So, I've told you about it already,” Zhadol grimaced.  "According to Egil Viggoaries, he did it unflinchingly and so earned the regard of His Highness and the respect of the other courtiers.  However, one of these courtiers, long since dead, once told me the young Egil Viggoaries had lingered over the task, his eyes like glass, his heart turned to stone, as he then relentlessly pushed to complete it, just to gain Zakhertan Yozdek’s approval.  The experience, however, had left an indelible mark on young Egil and had far more serious repercussions than he would ever care to admit.  Perhaps at the time he’d secretly felt an innate kinship with the trapped beast, whose resilience had been likened to one of his prior experiences.  One thing is for certain, all who knew him commented afterwards on how he had returned from that hunting trip with a cast-iron confidence, stone heart, and resilient (hardy) character."

 

(END OF SECTION 12)

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