11- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - EVIL PERSONIFIED - SECTION 27

11- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - EVIL PERSONIFIED - SECTION 27 - (BOOK 11- FINAL CHAPTER)

 

Indigo Owls,’ and The Shadow Brigades’ most recent concurrent reports however had revealed that radical elements and nonconformists had once again re-materialized, this time from the most unlikely quarter, though there had been no further activity since Lord Shouzi Yozdek’s dispatch (the now missing blackmail letter) which instigated a rebellion.

01-SHOUZI YOZDEK - JP - 4

The culprit Lord Shouzi's procrastination had nonetheless indicated that the planned uprising had been aborted or temporarily shelved. Latter being the stronger probability, and considering that Shouzi was no fool, nor would he undertake any action by halves, it meant that there was a far sinister ploy already in the works. This had warranted another prompt, stealthy (covert) incursion to quell the burgeoning trouble at the source; and so, Qarzten Caimund along with the small division of Black Band Guard Regiment had henceforth been swiftly dispatched to first secure irrefutable proof and then lawfully and permanently resolve this problem.  

Back in capital, Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek’s able agents from the Shadow Brigade meanwhile, had some time prior initiated the first part of the contingency plan by discreetly releasing certain information to Egil Viggoaries’s core team which in turn, had unleashed the anticipated, predictable set of events.

02- A ZAKHERTAN YOZDEDK  (49) JP

Zakhertan Yozdek showing atypical (uncharacteristic) patience in the interim, had bided his time for an apt revenge on the Lord Shouzi Yozdek; for the moment it was sufficient to set in motion certain undertakings to simply demoralize the Lord's supporters and, to make the Lord's life an insufferable, nightmarish Hell.  

                                                                                      ~

Zakhertan Yozdek, being always informed of all his key subjects’ whereabouts, he knew that Lord Shouzi Yozdek would decidedly be residing at this time of the year in his favorite, posh residence (chateau) built on the higher altitude and in midst of dense, forested region of Kunset Mountains.

03-LORD SHOUZI HUNTING GROUNDS (COLLAGE)

Two or three times a year Shouzi stayed at this mansion (which was deceptively, well guarded and built to withstand any hostile incursion), to indulge in his favorite pastime, hunting, as there was in that pristine woodland, ample abundant game.

Zakhertan Yozdek’s stern visage (features) gradually eased as he now pondered and envisioned in his mind's eye the anticipated reaction of Lord Shouzi when he received the special, anonymous box from Channing:   

At dusk Lord Shouzi Yozdek and his group of riders (with their mounts’ backs laden with game) returning from a typical hunting excursion, would pass through the heavily guarded front gate into the courtyard.

04- HUNTING PARTY AT GATE

The Chief Steward would at once rush out of the main building eager to assist his lordship in dismounting his chocolate brown stallion; solicitously, in a servile manner he would then trail Lord Shouzi and his selective group of friends (hunters), passing through the front foyer with an elaborate, three-story staircase and upper halls, then enter into the grandiose (rather ostentatious) reception hall.

Their mounts, meanwhile, would have been led to the stables, while the prize trophies: a deer, dozens (heaps) of hares, a wild boar or two, and the copious game birds (wild geese, turkey, ducks etc.), would have all been swiftly hauled, to the storage or to the kitchens, by the army of underlings. They would become the centerpieces of subsequent (succeeding) days’ feasts.

Lord Shouzi's smile would broaden as he temporarily (fleetingly) halting just inside the entrance of the huge drawing room, his approving (laudatory) gaze sweeps succinctly over (take in the picture of) his faithful guests, before subsequently extending his pithy (concise) felicitations to them.

Zakhertan at this point seditiously smirked,  envisioning the notable patricians, Lord Shouzi’s so called loyal friends: those who did not partake in the exercise of hunt, a frailer bunch nevertheless vital, erudite gentry, and the snobbish male or female coquettes (flirts) all decked out in their colourful brocade attire (garments, gowns) and adorned with gleaming gems-  leisurely lounging about, engaged either in board games or private conversations, some reading, some smoking a pipe, some pensively brooding while they listen to the delightful music; and, fewer still indulging their pallets (tastebuds) as they partake in rare morsels (artistically arranged, mounted on top silver ornate trays on the buffet table) , blending it with the small sips from golden goblets, Lord’s( private reserves of) vintage wines.  

Some pretend not to have noticed his presence; few of those however, those that are not too supercilious (haughty, egotistical), though prior engrossed (occupied, absorbed), for a moment they pause (halt) what they are doing and in way of nod and a slight smile, reciprocate their akin, customary polite greetings (salutations) to him.

05- LORD SHOUZI'S PARTY - JP  (17)

Subsequently, the Lord and his hunting party withdraw to their private quarters to be refreshed, washed (cleaned) and don (put on, change into) more appropriate attire (clothing); they would then return to (re-group at) the huge dining room, to partake in the sumptuous feast and merry making.

Seated at the head of the table Lord Shouzi would then, embellishing the details, recount (describe) to the captive audience, the day's hunt, while the scantily dressed servants bustle about to and for (trotting back and forth), serving them more wine or lager beer, hot from the oven spicy bread, varied braised or barbecued meat, some of it in rich stew with plenty of vegetables.  Next, topping their culinary delight, would come the diverse (mixt) pastries- blood-pudding deserts, pies, multi-layer cakes and, finally, exotic fruits.

06 THE FEAST- 3

At this juncture, unexpectedly just then a messenger from Channing would arrive at the gate; horse and rider would be drenched in sweat from days’ ceaseless riding, with the mount's hooves having churned up huge clouds of dust along the way. The courier covered in dust would nevertheless be allowed to mount the steps and be let into the atrium (vestibule), where which after a short wait he would present His Lordship the gold and gem inlaid gift box. Lord Shouzi would receive it graciously, grinning (beaming) from ear to ear, seeing that it was from the Capital and anticipating therefore, only the best tidings…But then comes the delicious scene!  

Zakhertan Yozdek had wished that he could have been there and witnessed firsthand the contemptible Lord's horror, reflected in every one of his attendants’ faces, as his gaze remained frozen upon the mutilated, though quite recognizable head of Nijel Pinng, his so-called invaluable agent, staring at him, that morbid face instantly dashing all hopes into bits and searing his heart with an inexplicable fear.

 And in the aftermath of it, when Lord Shouzi quickly regains his senses, he would most certainly point the finger of blame at the only likely culprit, who else but Egil Viggoaries, for the notorious Surgeon Lubin's apparent handiwork would be unmistakable.

Brief time later, the news of Lord’s precious sons Yukksel and Konnur’s simultaneously accidental, tragic demises should reach him. At this point Zakhertan absentmindedly nodded his head, as he’d already received confirmation and the details of it, from his Serpent Death Squad; whom, three weeks prior he’d covertly assigned (dispatched), a small contingent of highly skilled assassins from the SDS, that had orchestrated Yukksel and Konnur Yozdek’s certain (guaranteed, absolute) destructions.

Lord Shouzi’s son Yukksel’s tragic death from the bizarre hunting mishap and Konnur’s, from a drowning calamity when the boat he was travelling in was attacked by an unknown group of pirates and capsized.

Zakhertan’s heart, temporarily for the moment was angst (tormented), for over the years he’d watched those proficient, adroit warriors and strikingly handsome boys grow up; furthermore, he had liked his nephews!

07-SHOUZI YOZDEK'S SECOND SON YUKKSEL AND THIRD SON KONNUR-3 JP

Zakhertan, suddenly needing a breath of fresh air, he stepped quietly outside of his second story respite-room to stand by the railing of his private veranda (terrace). He, for several moments just wistfully stared into distance of pitch darkness of the mantled earth, finding it strangely soothing; and thus, his momentary lapse of guilt gradually abated (ended, passed). But irately, those momentous occasions of their feat (achievements, deeds) rushed back to parade before his mind’s eye and razor-sharp talons gripped his heart anew and wrenched it; therefore, his conscience yet again smarted (ached, stung) by mass ruminations (musings), he pensively (reflectively, sadly) lifted his eyes and stared at the brilliant array of stars in the sky.

After a time Zakhertan, succeeding in once more turning his heart to stone, simply shrugged his shoulders. It was, after all, a necessary evil.  Once the unconsolable (devastated, utterly distraught) Lord Shouzi obtained an apt, planted proof (through various means) of who had authorized their expiry, the Dark Eunuch, would permanently thence, be regarded as the Lord's arch nemesis. The consequential fierce reprisals (retaliations, sequels) should then, if it does not destroy one of them, it at least will for this crucial period in time, seriously thwart (impede, hinder or foil) both Lord Shouzi’s (backed by P.M Lamont Gudaren) and Egil Viggoaries’s lasting (enduring) ambitions.    

Zakhertan sporting a malevolent grin just then, imagined even allowing the patsy (pawn) victor, to temporarily (for short span) experience, to being the Sovereign of Wenjenkun and all that it entailed, before yanking the power away and initiating, the would-be usurper’s (and his supporters) traumatizing, utter annihilation (destruction, devastating ruin).

“And on that ‘Day of Reckoning,’ the champ (titleholder) can mount his bloody throne in Hell!”  Zakhertan Yozdek threw his head back and guffawed, cogitating on the delicious worst cruelty (harm) that had awaited all, particularly his detestable (hateful) kin Lord Shouzi Yozdek, the abhorrent Lamont Gudaren and the indubitably repugnant Dark Eunuch Egil Viggoaries, and finally, his most ardent foe Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon, the bane of his life.

08- EGIL VIGGORIES 2- JP.jpg3

Zakhertan’s amusement had nevertheless as abruptly had again vanished, as another annoyance (more serious irritant) unexpectedly just then, intruded into his brain. Why hadn’t there been any word from the dispatched, presumably most competent assassin Duan; did the Demon Lord Asger Zhon yet again absconded along with the devil’s spawn Prince Nevetsecnuac, both surviving his perilous snares? Why was he perpetually surrounded by intolerable (reprehensible) sheer incompetence?

His restless mood once more flared up, Zakhertan Yozdek could no longer sit still.    

Blast! All this (documents needing his perusal and action) would have to wait. He needed to extinguish this searing fire engulfing his chest, before it consumed him; hence, he needed an outlet of some kind- preferably an intense combat, to release all that pent-up energy as well. If not, she would do in a pinch.

09- ZAKHERTAN YOZDEDK  (107)

Zakhertan hence, bolted to his feet and stormed downstairs and out the door. The grounds had once more reverted to being pitched dark as the whipping (punishing) high winds had congregated flotilla of clouds to obscure both the moon and the stars in the sky.

Even so, like a voracious, predacious beast, Zakhertan stalked the grounds of the North Palace in the dead of night from one end to the other (his personal guards hard pressed to keep up with his pace), even hoping to encounter an assassin. All the while unseen Palace sentinels stood on edge, for the Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek was habitually again on the prowl, looking for a victim, a worthy prey to (tear apart and) devour.    

Subsequent two hours Zakhertan ardently searched (looked) for something out of order, anything amiss, to unleash his fury on and to relieve this oppressive void sensation that seemed to have seeped into his bones and left him, his spirit, yet again restless and unsatisfied. Boredom was his arch nemesis, the worst kind of enemy!   

But his efforts were all in vain, for he was the victim of his own efficiency.

Zakhertan eventually gave a huff of derision and turned, his steps leading him to the stables; a brief time later having mounted his pure-bred black stallion Night Thunder, he rode like the wind, to reach the South Palace where more than two hundred heavenly beauties existed just for his pleasure. He knew that this was no substitute for a goring fight or a blood-curdling, killing-spree sport (for exhilaration, diversion) but for the time being it would have to do. His steps eventually led him to the private quarters of Lady Sejon, though in the dead of night, his sudden presence created such an upsurge of fear and vitality that the place churned with buzzing beehive activity.  

10- A ZAKHERTAN YOZDEDK  (10) JP2

Zakhertan had of course, first visited his son Magnian briefly then sought the company of his recent favorite Lady Sejon who would, he knew, perform just so to keep him amused and interested. The recent set of events and her deception had not impeded nor altered his attraction to her for it was only physical. As she was a cut above the others, he used her beauty, her body to satiate (satisfy) every now and then, that needy corner of his soul… 

Besides which, as far as he was concerned, she had acted predictably for one in her position. He expected nothing less so, she would do for now, until he tired of her. Meanwhile, so skilled was Lady Sejon in the arts of pleasure that she always managed to entertain him even at times like this. It secretly amused Zakhertan to see how she responded, believing she was favored above all others. Careful not to overstep her boundaries, Sejon, niece of P.M. Lamont  Gudaren thought she was gradually ingratiating herself with at least nine influential courtiers.    

She may or may not expire before the purge. Like a cat watching a mouse Zakhertan had given her certain liberties that he knew would be her undoing before long. Till then as he tracked her predictable progress, he expected to at least be mildly diverted from his other qualms (fret).

 

(END OF SECTION 27- FINAL CHAPTER OF EVIL PERSONIFIED- NEXT POST WILL BE BOOK 12- THE PORTENDED PERIL)

 

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 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL - SECTION 18

Hugen and Uyuk knew full well that the contingent from Wenjenkun was headed straight into an ambush from Hell. All without exception would perish before they reached their postings; meanwhile the assault would be carried out in such a way that the blame for this grievous massacre would be unequivocally pinned on Kontu, and the inevitable conflict between the two giants would be drawn ever closer.  A prolonged war with Kontu would provide Korion then with just the means they needed; for both Wenjenkun and Kontu were equally matched in manpower and leadership, and the ensuing decade’s long war would invariably exhaust the massive resources and manpower of both antagonists. 

01- FIGHTING SCENE

Korion in the interim could play both sides to its own advantage, ultimately strengthening its own (standing) position. Their nation all this time of course would seemingly maintain its alliance with Wenjenkun right up to the precise strategic time when they would opportunely switch and form a partnership with Kontu to the inevitable detriment of the Wenjenkun nation.  This had been the alternate long-term strategy that was dependent on the anticipated failure of the assassination attempt.  Fortunately, certain configurations were still intact.  Thanks to the Crown Prince Herleif, besides his numerous other failings, was an incompetent, utter fool; so detested was he that neither the nobility nor the common citizens would ever rally to his cause if it were warranted. 

Sovereign Yoshikan (Sousing Nokuzuk Binchan) had also determined for some time now, that this seemingly strong Wenjenkun Empire was, in recent years, had gradually begun to rot at its very core.  At the highly anticipated moment of Zakhertan’s future demise (termination), the internal strife fueled in part by Korion's own gentry would tear Wenjenkun apart from region to region, while, powerful factions poised at its wings, would at once pounce to (carve up) siphon the existing, residual power of the government.

 "His Excellency Tuvering Bokurek has higher ambitions." Hugen nodded simply just then, absently sounding his inner thoughts.  "His main objective, as payback for our years of humiliation, is to effect more lasting devastation on them than mere vengeance."

02- MINISTER TUVERING BOKUREK -JP

Hugen after exhaling deeply was about to continue when he, suddenly stiffened.  “There it was again!  No mistaking it this time!”   His keen senses had picked up the slightest, most minute stirring.

Uyuk, lost in deep contemplation, detected the sudden tenseness in the other and looked up sharply.  Drawing close, he was about to inquire as to what was wrong when Hugen's pointed look (mordant, acerbic look) at once stilled Uyuk’s tongue.  He inclined his head slightly to, discretely peer at the corner Hugen had indicated with his chin and then nodded in silent understanding.

Hugen lazily stretched his limbs and yawned then grumblingly ejected: "Hey, all this jabbering has worn me out.  What do you say, we call it a night?"

Uyuk let out a pretense yawn also then with a terse nod, consented. "All right, we can always talk more, later.  I must confess; I'm a bit wrung-out myself.  Let us get some shut eye in preparation for the arduous ride still ahead of us tomorrow."

The two men exchanged one more rapid, meaningful glance and then quickly set up their bedding in the respective spots. The candle was snuffed out and both Hugen and Uyuk retired to sleep with their backs to the far corner. Before long heavy breathing and the occasional snore emanated from Hugen and Uyuk’s forms, an indication that they had both fallen into a deep slumber. Their loud snores reverberated in the air, contesting with the resurging gale winds outside that completely drowned out the creaking of the hidden cellar door in the far corner, as it slowly opened, displacing (pushing aside) the mound of dirt and debris that had been prior heaped onto it. 

Two robust figures clothed completely in black from head to foot, silently crawled out of the opening on all fours, with the gleaming blades clenched between their teeth. Swift as reptilians, they silently crept towards the sleeping figures.  Momentarily about a foot away, they abruptly halted, perhaps startled by the sudden, ominous hooting of the owl; subsequently, rising to their feet with daggers already shifted to their hands, they insidiously resumed their stealthy advance towards the perceived, hapless victims. Murderous intent registering in their eyes, they poised to strike but before they could, Hugen and Uyuk at lightning speeds jumped up from their mats, somersaulted in mid-air and knocked the blades from the assailants’ hands, same time delivered two powerful (potent) kicks that knocked the assassins right off their feet and hurled them against the far wall.  But the two were no ordinary robbers, equally nimble and proficient at fighting; they’d, before hitting the wall, quickly regained their balance and agilely back flipped then struck back. In that split second beforehand, meanwhile, the two powerful strikes had caused the daggers to arch across the room and be permanently embedded in the ceiling beams.

A lightning bolt and then immediately after that the sound of thunder outside, judging by the proximity of it, posed a fresh threat to the combatants; even so, non inside paid any heed to it. A scant time to exchange threats, Hugen and Uyuk had swiftly been paired off to fight their opponent with incredible dexterity and skill. The ensuing desperate, deadly, highly competitive pitched combat lasted longer than Uyuk had anticipated, for both sides were equally matched in strength, stamina, and ability.

 In truth Hugen had been holding back, wishing only to subdue the opponent before the final elimination, to (interrogate) extract information from him. After thirty rounds with no clear advantage however, Hugen’s patience at an end, he fast abandoned the idea of taking a live prisoner. From then on, a marked difference in his fighting style had occurred.  

03- HUGEN (61)jp

Hugen's flawless, quite invincible, lightening intensity fighting technique (his deflecting of each deadly strike from the opponent, then countering it with more lethal force), each strike increasingly more vigorous and deadly accurate, had even impressed Uyuk, who had been fighting alongside him. Uyuk was furthermore amazed, how Hugen moved so simultaneously with his laudable opponent, each time countering every offensive even before it was launched. Despite the differing styles and strikes, there was still no surprising Hugen and soon his attacker began to falter; nearly undone, by his own powerful strikes and blows each time with heightened intensity being reflected to him. Then, sensing a rare opening, in one swift maneuver, a swirl and a blindingly fast kick, Hugen had broken the man's spine.

 The other assassin, seeing his partner so expertly vanquished, parried the next deadly strike from Uyuk then somersaulted high up, intending to crash through the thatched roof to affect his escape.

He had nearly succeeded too, but Uyuk anticipating this, had at once jumped up to simultaneously block and then, balancing precariously on the partially exposed narrow roof beam, continued the fight.   At scant opportune moment when Uyuk had just delivered his deadly kick, breaking his opponent's jaw and neck, the roof beam underfoot unfortunately, had caved in and so the two came crashing down. The dead assailant fell with a thud face down onto the floor of the hut while Uyuk had somersaulted to land gingerly on his one foot then on both feet, (none-the-worse-for-wear) unaffected from the violent tumble.

The last leg of the combat had been fought in pitch darkness (the howling winds continuously whipping everything about), blindly and by sheer instinct; notwithstanding, Hugen had heard the force of Uyuk's blows and had noted the agility with which he had avoided the other's powerful strikes. Presently, though the pelting rain had ceased, the flotilla of clouds remaining, still blanketed the skies and the ground. With the roof now partially gone, when the moon momentarily peeked out from under the dense clouds, Hugen noted in the moonlight, how completely at ease Uyuk was.

“The intensity of combat should have left him, at least somewhat winded.”  In that moment Hugen had understood how he had inordinately underestimated Uyuk's prowess.

But by the time Hugen retrieved the candle and lit it to examine the corpses more closely, Uyuk was back to (playing) his old tricks, acting as though he was spent, exhausted, complaining about his sham aches and pains and phantom bruises.

Hugen disregarding this infuriating charade turned each of the corpses over to examine them; he frowned to see that both had been totally expired.

"What did you expect?" Uyuk's voice was almost gleeful.

"I expected to detect some spark of life, for questioning.” Hugen glared at Uyuk.

“I don’t know what I expected." He then had grumbled, under his breath. As further setback, the subsequent careful examination of both corpses had revealed not a single clue of their identity, affiliation, or nationality. The cellar they had emerged from, contained rations for one month still unused, but again nothing specific in their wrappings or preparation to, reveal any practical (useful, handy) facts or identifiable markings for determining their origin. To the trained eye, however, there were clues to be had, hinted at, not by what was provided, but by what had been left out. Hugen knew how to interpret these signs though he, by design, refrained from disclosing it to Uyuk.

04- UYUK  (4)JP

Under his breath, Uyuk cursed his carelessness. Hugen was right, these two, were no ordinary assassins, he now pondered. All he had to do was hold back just that little bit; but then, why had Hugen not spared his opponent? Yet he was so quick to criticize him! Uyuk nevertheless, checked his ire and kept his tongue, with the stark realization that there might be others in these two's wake, which posed greater angst. The assailants with their incredible prowess had been barely manageable; should their associates (comrades, people), especially if they were from Kozurs or Black Molochs, were ever to show up in greater numbers, the two of them might not be as fortunate in escaping certain catastrophe.

Uyuk and Hugen, while succinctly had pondered on the akin concern, mindful that their key mission was still unfulfilled and therefore, not being at liberty to linger to permanently resolve the situation, both had silently and simultaneously had at once set to work to oversee crucial details before their imminent prompt departure:

Dampness had precluded (excluded) the possibility of setting the whole place on fire. Confiscating some of the assailants’ rations, they dumped the bodies back into the cellar and arranged the top of the trap door as it once had been. The partially exposed roof could not be fixed in time, but to buy time, they removed all other signs of a struggle from the inside of the hut, including the knives buried in the rafters. Rounding up all their belongings next and removing (covering up) any evidence that might lead the would-be pursuers to them, they under cover of darkness rapidly slipped away.

 

                                                                                      ~

 

(END OF SECTION 18)          

  

 

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE CAPITAL CHANNING – SECTION 12

 

Minister Zaur Stugr just then was reminded of the recent disturbing developments in Chukset Province, particularly the local governor’s role (part) in it, all of which had been painstakingly recounted in Tonzeye Yevgun's recent report.

 Zaur’s brows knotted, and anger smoldered in his chest as he reflected how, despite all of his efforts, the corruption had been so rampant (prevalent), so great were the sufferings of the citizens that all of his prior efforts had barely made a dent in suppressing (throttling) their tyrannical schemes.

01 ZAUR STUGR JP 12b

 

Another dire concern also gnawed at his viscera (innards), for despite all his forces being kept on highest vigilance (alert), despite all the avenues the Kozurs had explored, Zaur had remained completely in the dark about Prince Nevetsecnuac’s current whereabouts.

Zaur shook his head to dispel all disquieting (troubling) thoughts, reminding himself that he must keep up hope, as he had still not received any word from the men sent in pursuit of the assassin Duan and his cohort, Heng Erling.

 

“What's that?” Zaur Stugr was instantly jolted from his reverie.  His acute hearing had picked up a barely discernible, fleeting creak outside of the room.  Tensing, he sat upright and listened intently. 

“There it is again.”  His keen ears had detected another, even more slight sound. “Could it be an intruder?” 

A moment later, the room locked securely behind him, he advanced stealthily down the long corridor of the East Wing towards the source of the noise.  Hiding in the shadows, he waited. 

When the soft, silent footfalls drew near, he stood ready to pounce in a flash, with his fist poised to deliver a most deadly blow, a single chop, to right under the intruder's ribcage, where in an instant it would block (intercept) the life’s blood to the heart.

"What in blazes are you doing here?" Zaur Stugr growled, halting his attack in mid-stroke. "You should know better than to sneak around here at night."  Shaking his finger at his strapping, young assistant, Zyerne, he admonished him, "I could have killed you."  Zaur Stugr angrily shook his head.

02- ZYERNE STEWOR

 

Zyerne Stewor was a broad-shouldered, tall, and stalwart (athletic) youth of about nineteen years in age, with fiery red-blond hair, clean shaven, one who had most striking handsome facial features, with keen blue eyes that never missed anything; furthermore, he had a brilliant mind and was courageous and loyal. 

He was also one of the most recent new recruits that had succeeded in a short span to become a valuable affiliate of Kozurs; nevertheless posturing (posing) as Zaur’s personal steward (butler, superintendent) in Zaur’s large household, he oversaw (managed) many of the most crucial, covert daily tasks.

 

“You’re always so dramatic; but then that is one of your most endearing qualities.” Zyerne instead, simply pouted (furrowed his forehead) and meekly lowered his head. He was rather fond of his Chief being always well treated, here (at Zaur’s residence) and in the organization, so fairly and considerately by him.

"I woke up suddenly, sir, and realized you were absent." the aide Zyerne ejected in a concerned voice.  "I hurried on here, thinking that you might perhaps be in need of my services."

"Your foolhardy conscientiousness is nevertheless commendable", Zaur smiled, "but in this instance I have no need of your assistance.”

“Tomorrow, however, I will be sending you on an important errand so you may as well return to your room and get what rest you can." Having said this, turning on his heels, Zaur Stugr quickly headed back in the opposite direction from his trusted aide, Zyerne Stewor.

 

                                                                                ~

 

 

Incredibly, both men had completely missed (remained unaware) the presence of a third figure well concealed in the shadows. 

Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) arriving later than Minister Zaur Stugr in this forbidden East Wing had suddenly spotted the scant light emanating from the small window high up (though mostly hidden behind a set of elaborate eaves,).  This was when Zuan had opened the window just a crack.

 As the window had been way too small (to permit even an entry of a small child), Nevetsecnuac next had tried but failed to gain stealth entry into either of the secret rooms. He tried peeking in (stealing a look) but the solidly built roof because of its angle had entirely obscured (obscured, masked) the inside. Discovering the only other window to one of the well concealed rooms, he had tried to breach (crack open) that, but it too had been securely sealed, this time with brass bars embedded in the stone of the sill.

Nevetsecnuac was considering his other options when in that instance, the interesting encounter between Zaur and Zyerne had transpired. He had waited for them to leave then carrying serious misgivings in his heart about his host, Nevetsecnuac too, had reluctantly retired, unseen, and unheard, to his room.

                                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                    ~

 

Following night, long after everyone had succumbed to slumber (sleep, forty winks); Minister Zaur Stugr had again stealthily snuck (sneaked) back into the East Wing.  He quickly recovered the mysterious box from its hiding place and, once more seated in the plush armchair in that secret library, reached into his inner pocket and retrieved the key.  Determined as he’d been to find out what the box had contained, once more his thoughts defiantly had drifted yet again, back to that specific time of his avowed disclaimer, the bane of his conscience.

Naturally, a fortnight after his father's departure, the box his father had entrusted with him had been discovered (detected) among his personal belongings by the tending servants and, at once, brought to Sanzo's attention. 

When Kundrick Dufo was confronted with the matter, he quickly snatched the box from the table and fearful of losing it, had held it tight to his chest and declared. 

"It’s my mother's!  It’s the only memento I have left of her."   And yes, at that moment, he’d told a blatant, shameless lie.

He had thought at the time that he’d been rather clever; especially since his guardian Sanzo had quietly scrutinized him (Kundrick) for a time then just dropped the matter.

“Perhaps he could not conceive of Sorgun, so careful in all he did, leaving anything of such great importance in the hands of a mere boy.” With hindsight, Zaur at present theorized. 

For in the end shrugging, Sanzo had turned his back and ordered in an icy tone, "Have the child made ready for bed." 

03- - SANZO TESCAT (2)

 

Sanzo Tezcat had never again raised the matter of the box, allowing Kundrick (young Zaur) to instead come around of his own accord and, if it was at all important, tell him.

The more Kundrick’s respect for his mentor had grown however, so had increased his fear and the shame for his damnable, detestable lie (he’d told his guardian). To make matters worse, Kundrick had learned bit too late, how much Sanzo prized integrity in a person, second only to loyalty and, how intolerant he’d always been of least deceit from those around him, his stern, harsh and judgmental stand on this matter not allowing for any mitigating circumstance. After having been an unwitting witness to the severity of the brutal repercussions suffered by one such offender, Kundrick had desisted confessing his lie (that he deemed was the result of his unfortunate lapse in good judgment back then), feeling the oppressive guilt, he’d suffered all this while, had been his just deserts (his punishment) enough.

Besides which, what he dreaded more than anything was losing the fragile trust, the rare privilege that Sanzo Tezcat had bestowed on him. 

Sanzo meanwhile had been far too preoccupied with other more pressing concerns, having deducted from the start that, whatever the nature of Sorgun's secret mission had been, Tojo Tugo's treachery had cost his dearest friend Sorgun his life. 

Highly incensed, despite the precariousness of their circumstance and the urgency of their flight from immediate danger, he had hankered (sought) instead, to extract the truth from Tojo and to mete-out apt vengeance on him on behalf of his friend Sorgun.  Delaying their departure hence, he had petitioned the Kozurs’ governing board requesting (demand) full cooperation and assistance in this matter.

Well before Sanzo and Brotherhood could take (or execute) any action however, Tojo had quite suddenly, mysteriously met his demise by a most gruesome accident, leaving behind him many unanswered questions.  Soon afterwards, all leads had dried up, as all of Tajo’s collaborators; his close associates who may have been able to shed some light on the matter, had all succumbed to lethal accidents. 

Result of discrete, thorough autopsies conducted on pertinent (stolen and dug up) corpses by the Kozurs’ top physician, had established the real causes and circumstances of each victim’s death. For one thing, the findings had revealed that they had all died (expired) well before their, obviously staged, fatal accidents.

The method of death in each case was the, long, poison-laced needle that had been inserted through the nostril into the brain, effecting (bringing about, causing) an instantaneous paralysis of the intended victims.

 This technique had been the preferred choice for murder, by only one well-known assassin, a henchman of Zakhertan Yozdek who, unfortunately, could not be touched.

The fact that Zunrogo Tugo and the reminder of Tojo's family had not been entirely terminated indicated that Zakhertan Yozdek considered Tojo’s service as being loyally rendered one and his demise was arranged, not as revenge but merely as a means of wiping the slate clean of all clues that could lead to the Usurper Emperor. After his initiation into Kozurs, as an affiliate (member), Zaur Stugr had finally been privy to these well documented findings. Strange though it may seem, despite this most likely outcome of his father's fate, still, over the course of many years Zaur had maintained the strong belief that, so long as he held onto the box (and the secret it contained) and, fact that his father’s corpse had not been found, he'd realize his wish of one day meeting his father or, at worse, of finding out what had actually befallen him. 

The subsequent years had spun rapidly by and, in the flurry of change that had swept the nation; the significance of Sorgun's box had rapidly diminished in Sanzo's eye just as, out of necessity and shame, it had acquired an ever-greater prominence in Kundrick’s heart.

 

                                                                      ~

 

“This cowardice is so unbecoming of you.”  Zaur inwardly chastised (reprimanded) himself. “Shame, how you’ve grown soft over the years.”

 

In fact, his hesitation, his inhibition had resulted from foreboding feelings of, the odd premonition, that he would be better off not knowing the contents of the box.

 

“All right; you've stalled long enough!”  Zaur Stugr, resolved to find out whatever the cost, he then inserted the key in that second keyhole and turned it.

The device (aperture) worked, and he heard a certain click.

 

Holding his breath in, he slowly lifted the lid and looked inside.  For a spell he was disappointed at the small collection of documents he saw, so frail they were laying at the bottom of the chest, hardly the sort of thing these many, weighty years of secrecy would have warranted.

Gingerly Zaur picked them up, one by one, and deposited them on the desk.  He studied the writing with sure interest until, realizing what they were all about, his face fell.  His brows knit and his expression grew grave as he nodded with grim understanding of the past consequences of their very existence and all the suffering it had caused.

04- THIRD PRINCE, WENZOR ALRIC THERRAN VALAMIR 2- jp

 

 It was a letter, several pages long, from the Third Prince, Wenzor Alric Therran Valamir, to Zakhertan Yozdek himself.  In it were the detailed plans for future uprisings both within and without Capital Province Holger, as-well-as, grateful thanks for the already rendered valuable services by then Field Marshal Zakhertan.  Prince Wenzor had additionally promised Zakhertan of future rewards after his continued, anticipated cooperation.

 Here was clear evidence of how Prince Wenzor Alric Therran Valamir had been completely duped by Zakhertan Yozdek.  Believing that Zakhertan sincerely had the prince’s own interest at heart, Prince Wenzor had, in all naivetés, provided the usurper with otherwise unavailable advantages. With this, Zakhertan had been able to move more swiftly, more effectively towards his goal of establishing himself as the future Emperor.

Added to this was the list which incriminated, some prominent, seemingly loyal Ministers, Lords, and courtiers as, co-conspirators in Prince Wenzor's schemes.

 

These very same men, Zaur Stugr (Kundrick) remembered, had later supported Zakhertan on his ascendency (to become present reigning Sovereign); their betrayal causing great shock and consternation among the Royalists camp.

 

“Yes, of course!”  

 

Zaur Stugr faintly remembered having seen Third Prince Wenzor Alric Therran Valamir once or twice at Sorgun's stately mansion.

 

 

(END OF SECTION 12)