11- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - EVIL PERSONIFIED - SECTION 11

Worren Youkup’s tightened jaw revealing his dogged resolve (his determined reluctance to speak) in the end forced her Ladyship Sejon to concede; and, forsaking propriety, a gesture of her hand dismissed Nijel also to the adjacent room with the others.

01- WORREN YOUKUP (6)JPM

Soon as she was gone, Worren Youkup’s expression hardened, presently burrowing his cold eyes into Sejon’s, he in an unyielding tone, bluntly stated that he was here to speak about Prince Herleif and the stiletto (penknife) in question. Anticipating her ready denial, he then held out his hand, and tersely added, "Save your breath, I’ve already determined the truth; it is of no use for you to deny your complicity in this matter.”

“You may as well make a clean breast of it."  Worren, moreover, taking advantage of her stunned silence, in his authoritative tone quickly put forth two consecutive, pertinent questions to her and demanded to know the answers to them:

“When precisely during the time he had shown Sejon the scrolls did Nijel (undoubtedly on Her Ladyship's instructions,) plant the stiletto inside the scroll? And when exactly had Sejon devised this scheme; a long while ago or, was it an opportune temptation to which she on the spur had succumbed to?” 

Worren had phrased this last bit deliberately to allow Sejon a chance to extricate herself with a semblance of dignity. Worren’s unusually direct approach meanwhile, had so shocked Sejon that her reply was long time in coming.

He would not dare be so forthrightly blunt with his accusations, unless he had attained indisputable proof; furthermore he, being right on the mark, would not take too kindly to her sly manipulation. Sejon askance (sideways suspiciously) had glanced at Worren. By then Sejon had realized that she had grossly underestimated the old tutor Worren Youkup, who was still very much astute, despite prior instances of his feigned muddle-headedness and supposed forgetfulness. Anxiously she bit her lower lip, thinking of her earlier erroneous suppositions when she had first heard of his unusual visit. She at the time had considered mounting a vehement denial of any involvement, then perhaps shedding a tear or two to soften Royal Tutor’s heart. She subsequently had planned gently berating (scolding)him and then swaying his righteous conscience, with sentimental euphemisms, guilt, and tailored aphorisms.

How could you even think of such a thing? She would have cried out against this injustice then would have added: I would never stoop to such pranks, for this surely was a prank, nothing more. I have harbored a slight resentment of Prince Herleif over the years, but who among us has not sustained an ingrained (deep-seated) grudge or worse, against him? The prince has never been an amicable being and has particularly been miserly with his deferential treatment of women. For numerous reasons, which I will not elaborate on other than to remind you of the last outrage he had committed, yes, I did intensely dislike him. Still, I have learned from you, Master Youkup, to walk a fine line and stay on the enlightened path of tolerance and compassion, and though it had not been easy, I had already forgiven the prince’s multitude of sins. Vengeful actions are all behind me now.   

  She would have gone on and on, just as she had rehearsed it.  

Sejon by using her feminine charms could still, even now, have played him, denied and distorted facts to achieve the eventual effect of, laying total blame elsewhere. Why, Worren Youkup’s vanity alone should have been sufficient to dissuade (discourage) the Royal tutor from pursuing this matter, for it would expose his being duped by no less, a naive female in her early twenties. Sejon was too clever in the meantime, to openly disclose her part in this diabolical scheme. Better she used uncertain terms and clever insinuations and double meanings, to allude to the truth. Later they could all be interpreted differently and totally recanted. It had to be done in such a way that Worren's analytical mind would be dulled or appeased. Oh, but all this mental strain so early in the day, was irksome to her and, it drained a good chunk of her vital energy. She was better disposed to managing such things in the late afternoons or evenings; the hours which, fortunately, coincided with Zakhertan’s occasional visits.  

Sejon was moreover displeased, noting that something was amiss with Royal Tutor this morning; though Worren seemed to play along, her evasive words and unspecified allusions obviously grated on his nerves, and he grew increasingly agitated. Despite his sympathetic smile, her instincts alerted her to the critical difference.

“You are way too clever for your own good, Master Youking, and by far too foolhardy.” Sejon lowered her eyes, to hide the fear and contempt that had just then registered in them. Worren had always been too upright and as much principled (ethical) as that cursed Lenny Sukzor. What if he did something quite drastic and went directly to Zakhertan to unburden himself of all that he knew. Best she humored him for now and articulated a heart-rending remorse to placate the old geezer (fool). He did after all, offered her a way out; obviously, that is what he wanted. Sejon’d settled on this recourse as she same time landed a partial ear to Worren’s incessant haranguing (tirade, lecture). No, but then she paused, she would absolutely, not give in, even an inch!

"Have you shared your thoughts with anyone else?" Sejon faking concern, asked.

Angrily, Worren Youkup shook his head, in denial.

“No, it is not something you would readily admit to anyone.”  Sejon was inwardly pleased and amused. "Good. Your own vanity will serve my purpose well.” 

02- HER LADYSHIP SEJON

 

Lady Sejon assuming solicitous demeanor, " Master Youkup, naturally I wish to ease all your concerns, however, let us first move to the comfort of my inner chambers, she sweetly suggested, at once rising to her feet. “It is so hard to relax in these outer rooms."  Her meaning was clear; we will have more apt privacy and security there, from the prying ears.

Youkub’s grudging assent still gratified her, for the room she had chosen was furnished with a rather loud fountain, sheer draperies and cushioned floors that made eavesdropping impossible. She left word with the servants that she was not to be disturbed for any reason then turned to accompany Worren into the inner chamber.

Once they were there and comfortably seated, she cast her eyes downward her face suddenly grown ashen and her green eyes overflowing with accusatory hurt. "Oh, I am so grieved Master Youking, for you are the last person I wished to offend. To think that my maid's harmless indiscretion, a mere prank, should have had such dire consequences for one I hold in such high esteem as you. You have become dearer to me than my own parents, my own loving grandparents. Oh, I am so very distraught.”    

“Please grant me your leave to continue."  Sejon hastened to block Worren’s anticipated response. She heaved a shuddering sigh and shook her head. "When I found out, I punished Zijur severely and dismissed her on the spot. If you had thought that Nijel had something to do with it, you are mistaken. She was in no way involved." Sejon blatantly lied. "It was Zijur who had placed the item there in order to discredit myself and Nijel after her demotion."  She paused, pursed her lips, and shook her head once more in supposed deep dismay. As it were, Sejon held the firm belief, that she’d conceived that whole scheme with the knife by herself and, Nijel had only carried out Sejon’s instructions; consequently, if Nijel’s part was ever to be disclosed and she unjustly got punished, the guilt would weigh like a millstone on Sejon's conscience.      

“Stop there.”  Sejon inwardly advised self. “Illegitimate half-sister or not, it is much too risky to go that far out on a limb for Nijel.”  It bewildered Sejon how, in such a short span, Nijel had won both her deep affection and sure confidence. She was grateful to her nevertheless, for so many things, not the least of which was her instrumental role in exposing the actual indiscretions of Zijur before it could generate the most severe repercussions for Sejon. Zijur's discipline, dismissal in disgrace and her unexpected suicide had been, thanks to in great part Nijel's conscientious efforts, well contained. Though Zijur had been her companion for number of years now, Sejon felt nothing but contempt for her after she had so grievously disgraced herself; therefore, she felt no twinge of conscience in compounding Zijur‘s faults by adding this blame, not when the timing was so appropriate. Nijel contrastingly, was deemed indispensable, as she had lent Sejon consistent support, where it had been most warranted.  

Sejon so completely trusted Nijel in fact that, if ample proof of Nijel’s duplicitous character were to be presented to her, it would still not be believed and furthermore, regarded as malicious slander. Pushing all that concern about Nijel aside, Sejon now glanced up at Worren, smiled warmly, confidently then picked up where she had left off, reiterating again that the chief culprit, Zijur, had been properly punished and dismissed from her service.  As for the fate of the former lady in waiting, it was no longer of concern to her.  

"All the same, I must accept the responsibility for my servant's actions, for allowing all this to happen right under my nose."  She tentatively turned her imploring eyes on Worren Youkup and grimaced. "As you have so wisely deduced, sir, it was a momentary temptation that was seized by a disgruntled servant. I said no more of it after I dismissed Zijur because I had not imagined that it would ever come to this.”

 

03- ZIJUR

 “I also believed that the prince would receive no more than a slight reprimand and a dose of embarrassment from all this.  As it were, the knife was not of weapon's grade, nor was it laced with poison as an assassin's pick would have been. It was a penknife such as those readily available in the library."  Sejon knit her brows in consternation, relieved that Nijel had briefed her on all the details should she ever be brought to task.  "Still, what's done is done." she huffed in resignation. Worren s persistent stone face continued to disturb her and inwardly she quaked slightly.   

Worren Youkup turned his head, biting back his rising anger at Sejon's ongoing deceit. He knew something about Zijur’s character, and he doubted the timid, sweet-natured girl Zijur who’d served Sejon loyally all those years, would be guilty of all that her mistress was at present shamelessly impugning (attributing) to her.

Subsequently, his frayed patience was somewhat allayed (dispelled) by the astonishment he felt at seeing the wide range of emotions Lady Sejon had displayed in that short spell. What he had witnessed had been truly incredible. That this exquisitely beautiful face could appear indignant, proud, strong, and even angry at one moment and the next become like a frightened, helpless little girl so hurt and petrified, as though she was protesting her innocence at a wrongful reprimand by an angry, unreasonable authoritative adult. At the end, the pleading eyes framed by such an imploring face that his heart, in all defiance of reason, became more inclined to forgive her.      

"Oh, Master Youkup, I would give anything, do anything, to alleviate your mind from all worry. If only I could erase the accursed events that led to this dire outcome. You must not be held accountable, and certainly not suffer least consequence, on my account." Sejon ejected shakily, her voice brimming with remorse.   

“Brilliant performance, my dear…  You almost had me convinced there. Such concern deeply touches my heart.”  Worren studied her face, his piercing eyes narrowing. “But why the insistence on protecting Nijel; what kind of hold does she have on you that it can override your innate selfish nature? Again, I digress.” He shook his head to clear away just then distracting thoughts. “This distasteful charade has gone on, far too long; it has been made clear to me now, precisely what needs to be done. You are the ideal product of this environment; more pity that you are also the mother of our future Sovereign.”  His tight smile had a tinge of sourness as he rose to his feet and bowed his head slightly.   

"It seems, Your Ladyship that I have been wasting both of our precious time; for that, I profusely apologize. I will now take my leave of you and proceed to the North Palace, where which, resolved to make a clean breast of things, I shall seek an audience with His Highness Zakhertan Yozdek. From this day forth I shall not be troubling you anymore."     

“Finally, the response I sought.” Worren Youkup was inwardly pleased, observing Sejon’s startled demeanor, as if she had just then awakened finally, to the future grim, dreaded reality.  Looking into her horrified eyes he smiled cynically, "Rest assured My lady, I will exercise the utmost care to leave your name and that of Nijel’s, or should I say, Zijur, out of my report (account, confession), if only for the sake of your son Prince Magnian."      

“After all,” Worren grumbled inaudibly, as he headed across the expansive room. “I should have had the farsightedness of my age and long years of experience, to have anticipated the outcome of irregular handling of Prince Herleif’s scrolls; the culpability (guilt) therefore, is entirely mine.”    

Worren Youkup’s apparent gallantry, his willingness to take full blame on her behalf, his supreme sacrifice, restored Sejon's full confidence. "But Master Youking, you can't do that." With the agility of her youthful age, she hastened forward, spreading her hands, to bar his path and to entreat (implore) Worren, once seemingly the shock had worn off and had freed up her voice.  Then in an obvious expression of regret and humility, letting go of her innate pride, she in an unprecedented move, quite unexpectedly fell to her knees before the old tutor to, teary eyed, beg his forgiveness.     

"The fault is not yours to claim, sir.  You are a man of great integrity and benevolence, as you have proven with your unselfish offer to extricate me, unworthy as I am, from this predicament and shoulder full responsibility yourself even though your true involvement was merely incidental.”    

“But in all good conscience I cannot allow you to tarnish the impeccable reputation you have preserved for so many decades.  No, kind sir, even at best your public esteem will suffer irreparable damage and I will be forced to make tenfold penance at my time of reckoning.”    

Worren had remained speechless especially when Sejon fell on her knees and with humility, bowed her head low to him. "Yes, you have shown me the error of my ways.  Please allow me the chance now to redeem myself for my mistakes.  Have pity on my innocent son, whose reputation will also be slandered by the sins of his mother.  As frightened as I am, I am firmly resolved to doing the righteous thing.  Henceforth I shall stoically face the consequences of my negligence (in controlling actions of my servants), but I need time to prepare myself for this.  I am, after all, a mere woman with limited capacity for elocution.  Words do not come readily to me.  If I should incur the wrath of His Highness before I can explain everything, all would be lost and Magnian and I will suffer even more.”    

“Bravo my dear. Again, you almost had me convinced. If only you hadn’t overplayed your humility, rather debasing… there, you went bit too far.”    

"My own life is of little consequence.”  Sejon had continued meanwhile, with her teary supplication. “And even if I should prematurely expire, I would be content; for I cannot bear the thought of you, venerable sir, being so unjustly punished.  Oh, Master, you have been as grievously wronged as it is.  I hope that, in time, you will find it clear in your heart to forgive me.  I have so valued your altruistic tutelage (advice and guidance) and look how I have repaid your kindness.  Please, please sir, do not begrudge me this time I need to collect my thoughts and present my case in the best light so that the right thing is done for both my son’s and your sake, sir.  Knowing that justice is truly served will ready me for whatever punishment His Highness will deal to me."    

Despite himself, Worren Youkup’s heart was wrung out.  As he hesitated, he quietly considered how the dire repercussions would affect innocent Prince Magnian.  Over the past few months, he had grown quite fond of the intrepid toddler.      

"Heaven has eyes." Sejon surmising what was on Worren’s mind, continued.  "I believe Gods will protect the innocent, do not fret too much over Magnian, he won’t face any serious future peril.  No, sir, you cannot dissuade me from doing the right thing now."    

The old tutor (Worren Youkup) totally beguiled, now begun regretting his harsh treatment of Sejon.  Bending down, and lightly gripping her elbow, he urged her to rise and be seated.  Taking a position across from her, he first assured her that he’d grant her the extended time she’d requested then in earnest, began his good counsel.   

His mind was still as sharp as ever and the summation of his lifelong experiences were utilized to afford her the most perfectly enunciated, solid defense, one that she would have never been able to formulate on her own.   

 

 

(END OF SECTION 11)

 

                                                                                                        ~

LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL – SECTION 8

LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL – SECTION 8 

001- EYE IN THE SKY

 The thunder and lightning meanwhile had intensified in its fury; abruptly just then a blinding bolt of green glow violently blew asunder the vaulted (domed) ceiling, leaving in its stead, a large gaping hole. This strike was followed by a prompt secondary bolt that came perilously close to scorching and reducing Dwengzur to ashes.

Unexpectedly and abruptly, an eerie stillness enveloped the room; this mysterious, ominous quiet (silence) persisted for an unspecified time hovering overhead, akin to bird of prey. Then suddenly, howling winds had again erupted manifesting tumult of menacing clouds which instantaneously blanketed the sky. These congregated clouds swirling into a whirlwind, superficially were then sucked into a central vortex until only one cumulus billow remained in the ominous sky. In the nucleus of the dark cloud appeared a single frightful eye, its lid gradually opened and then glared down directly on Dwengzur.

01-MASTER'S EYE

"There you are vile creature! What is this? You dare take leave without permission, and then compounding your offence, assume my form (my image) and run amok!" The angry roar shook the Heavens.

Imposter Dwengzur swallowed dryly and, trembling in fear, at once reverted to his ephemeral (transient, temporary) shape and quivering still with a shaky whimper, implored his master for forgiveness for his impropriety.  Precipitously next, he stated his version of events, too swiftly for Nevetsecnuac's mortal ears to discern the words.

Newetsecnuac, temporarily overlooked, standing on the sideline, gazed at this intriguing (fascinating) creature before him, almost mesmerized by his remarkable alien form, which resembled an intangible, naked pseudo male being, with pale white hue, ethereal (wraithlike), with round, lidless (wide open) black orbs for eyes and unnaturally elongated, thin limbs.

02- CREATURE

"Nonsense!" the voice, from the sky, meanwhile, had boomed, drawing Nevetsecnuac’s attention back to the clouds. "Wretched fool! I already know all that I need."

Imposter Dwengzur, trembling though unrelenting, now switched to a strange incomprehensible vernacular (dialect, language) and once more pleaded his case at incredible speed.

"Your reasons are unacceptable. You have gone too far; hence, your crime is unpardonable!" The voice, unmoved, devoid of any mercy, roared.

“You need a good lesson; brace yourself, for this time I shall not spare you the severity of it!” The voice (rising in crescendo,) had again thundered, causing a serious seismic tremble, that reached the infinite depths of the earth under Nevetsecnuac’s feet; Nevetsecnuac nevertheless, maintained his balance and stood firm. What happened next was unbelievable!

03- MASTER'S WRATH -LIGHTENING RODS

Subsequently, the most powerful lightning bolts split the air, scorching, and creating deep craters (fissure, cleft), where the creature prior stood or moved to thereafter. In his present form however the alien being had   efficiently dodged these series of fiery missiles, even the one that had strategically hit the very last spot he’d just been, but in the nick of time darted away.  Neavetsecnuac could not help but be impressed; he found himself, quietly rooting for the alien being.

At first with incredible speed and agility the creature had ran, jumped, or ducked, successfully evading each searing bolts of electricity. But as time wore on, not entirely escaping twentieth, thirty-fifth and then fiftieth, it had scorched certain measure of his thin strips of flowing limbs, parts of his backside (buttocks, rumps), and few strands of his shoulder length scraggly hair. Each time he had let off a deafening and a heart-wrenching howl from the excruciating pain when the lightening bolts had hit their mark. Incredibly, even though the ground underfoot scorched and buckled, no harm whatsoever came to Nevetsecnuac or the humans which the impostor had from time to time used as shields. In fact, it was as if the lightening bolts and missiles were specifically designed (genetically engineered) to bring only harm to the creature and non other.   The arsenal of lightning bolts and missiles of scorching, blazing fires, astonishingly simply passed right through humans with no adverse effects, targeting, singeing, blistering, and charring only parts of the alien being.

04- ALIEN BEING  TORTUED

All this while Nevetsecnuac constrained to eyewitness this horrendous onslaught had absolutely pitied the odd, wretched creature that had been at the receiving end of such extreme punishment.  Nevetsecnuac, had, moreover, understood that the creature was not being penalized for escaping his incarceration, but rather, because of his innate interest in humans and for meddling in the affairs of men. The real Dwengzur, with his stone-cold heart and apparent arrogance would never have deigned to personally interact with base, contemptible human species and thus risk being contaminated; he had instead, while trespassing on human realms, concentrated his energies solely on tracking, trapping and finally disposing of, the renegade immortal, Zonar. (Of course, Nevetsecnuac, even with his most discerning mind, had only grasped part of the truth.)

The creature’s exerted vigor (energy, potency), meanwhile, in trying to escape (avoid, shun) the frequency and accuracy of each of the lightning bolts, had eventually taken its toll on him; seriously exhausted (worn-out) hence, he became increasingly careless in his efforts and so, progressively got more scalded. Black and blue and gasping for breath now, he pleaded “Enough! Enough! I repent! I repent!" 

His three- fingered hands firmly clasped in front of his face; he fell to his bony knees and, with angst-ridden, heart-wrenching cry, implored Dwengzur to show him mercy.

"You don’t deserve any clemency…You have not only disrespected me, ungrateful minion, you have also caused such an iniquitous harm to this Prince." Dwengzur ‘s resounding icy reprimand (admonishment) rattled (shook) both Heaven and Earth.

At once the wily (sly) creature edged forward on his knees to face Nevetsecnuac; his survival taking precedence over his pride, he struck his forehead humbly and repeatedly on the floor as he same time abjectly begged the prince’s forgiveness.

"My greatest crime was curiosity." he next endeavoured to explain away his unpardonable transgressions and idiocies (folly). "Inadvertently I’d sampled an inexplicable, a most wondrous of human’s experience and so enticed, I wanted to feel and savour (relish) more of it. Imprisoned (entombed) all the time in that dreadful, watery grave, my existence is so dull and dreary! At times, I can hardly bear it! You are so regal and just. Please, oh please do help me merciful prince; you must forgive all my blunders and sheer madness. It was never my intention to bring you least (any) harm; I only craved those fantastic, most exhilarating human senses, so intolerably lacking in my sadly, deprived (disadvantaged,) world. You must believe me, even during all my reckless undertakings; I still took great care not to cause you any serious hurt."

“Your harmless pranks could have had, nevertheless, grave consequences. By your own admission (divulgence), that last stunt you pulled, could have killed me or, far worse.”  Nevetsecnuac’s intense mental torment fresh on his mind, musing, he pensively looked away; though he still paid heed, to the creature’s hasty (rapid), at times altogether incomprehensible, desperate ramblings. Nevetsecnuac, meanwhile, being compassionate, had already exonerated (absolved) the alien’s sins and besides, he could not bear to see this odd sentient being, the like of which he had never seen before in Wenjenkun or in his dreams, be subjected to further chastisement, torment and abject humiliation.

"All right," he therefore, acquiesced.” Rise to your feet; I’ve already forgiven you."

"Don't tell me." The mixed-gender-rock-sprit-entity grumbled; as he raised his grotesquely elongated, scrawny middle-finger and, pointed upwards. "Tell my master."

The creature’s innate nature being erratic, moreover, the extreme pain and torture he had just endured, had all at once dissipated any trace of goodness in him. Reverted to his former self, he again concurrently, was envious and detested this prince Nevetsecnuac; furthermore, he blamed the prince, for his prior stoic resistance and consequently, the extended linger, resulting in his capture.

Suppressing his emotional soup roiling (churning) in his chest, however, his jealousy,  grudging respect and admiration, bitterness and spite,  human’s enviable capacity for the forsaken virtues such as love, loyalty, hope, mercy, which he lacked-  with incredible performance of mimicking grace (poise, charm) , self-effacement and meekness,  he then beseeched the prince in sincerest tone hence, to plead for him, to soften his master’s hard heart… To spare him from more punishment and have him instead, be exonerated.

Nevetsecnuac had of course sensed the creature’s chaotic onslaught of mixed emotions and his psychosis (mental illness) fueling his tragic tendencies, as well the sentiment of goodness alongside sporadic bouts of resurgent hostility, all coexisting in this clearly damaged alien being. These were all traits (tell-tale-signs) of one being subjected to long time abuse; Nevetsecnuac pitying the creature hence, understanding also that his own life was also in peril (because of his contact with Zonar), he bravely stepped forward and bowing, respectfully addressed this invincible foe, the real Dwengzur, still up in the clouds. As means to distract him, in his resounding voice then, he eloquently articulated (enunciated) the creature’s perceived impetus (drives) to gain joy through harmless, human experiences. He then asked, on behalf of the creature, for him to be shown apt leniency and be forgiven for his past sins, as curiosity had been solely, without malice, at the root of all his misdeeds. Showing great generosity of heart, he also pointed out that no serious (irreparable) harm had been done to him.

Once he had been so graciously addressed by Nevetsecnuac, Dwengzur in concordance with protocol reluctantly, riding down the clouds descended from the sky to appear in his true form before the prince.

05- THE DWENGZUR

Though the impostor had been able to mimic the physical attributes of the Immortal, Nevetsecnuac now realized how the creature had failed to capture the true essence and power of this supreme being. This presence was too omnipotent, too supercilious (arrogant, snobbish) to be contained by any mimesis (form of mimicry), Nevetsecnauc could use this perceived weakness, if their paths adversely (negatively) crossed again, against this haughty Immortal.

Dwengzur’s harsh gaze meanwhile, with unreadable concept (thought, view), had all this while been affixed (pinned, fastened) on the terrified, quivering, most pitiful creature. Though if truth be known, it was only an act; meanwhile, the creature had inwardly ascertained (felt) that he had a secret ally now in Nevetsecnuac. Dwengzur was amused by this fanciful notion of the creature, dismissing it as foolish yearning that was of no consequence.

"Very well." the long-awaited pardon came after a suspended pause. "Never forget; you owe your salvation to this cordial, merciful Prince. But be warned, regardless of any circumstance, one more future transgression, however miniscule, will beget you an everlasting imprisonment in a that watery grave you abhor so much. Or better still, I will have the couple of Exterminators permanently end your puny (trifling) existence."

"Thank you for your clemency master!”  The alien being took in a shuddering breath and vehemently promised: “From hence I promise to curb (curtail) my wayward innate nature and to eternally stay within the bounds of prescribed conduct.”

“Sure, you will” Dwengzur’s distrustful, hard gaze lingered on the creature for a time; then, turned away and softening, he squarely faced Nevetsecnuac (who had successfully by then, with his sheer willpower, obstructed and checked the Immortal’s stealthy scrutiny (perusal). His bluff worked; in absence of least trace of fear, therefore, duped into believing there is nothing worthwhile to seek from this insignificant mortal, Dwengzur with decorum bowed his head ever so slightly, in formal greeting.

Keeping in mind Earth’s mandatory (routine) protocols, Dwengzur perfunctorily expressed his pleasure at meeting Nevetsecnuac and then evenly apologized for the unwarranted upset caused by his charge (ward) Samnuk; however, he purposely left out the rest of the sentence: my bane, the most bothersome, mixed gender rock spirit entity from the subjugated species, Cassars!

Nevetsecnuac felt the hairs on the back of his neck rise as he boldly met the Immortal's pupils, those penetrating and censorious eyes on an expressionless face, a stony mask devoid of any warmth or compassion, and affably reciprocated the formal greeting. He would nevertheless forever retain the memory of intense peril and the sensation of swimming in those infinite gray eyes, a dark, vacant abyss without the least shred of any sentiment and as void as the infinite space itself.

The Immortal had perceived this keen sense in Nevetsecnuac but being prejudiced, indifferently, had already turned once more to fix his granite gaze back on Samnuk. "Well, what are you waiting for,” in an austere (stern) voice, he commanded, "assume your true (authentic) form at once."

Samnuk bowed abjectly (with humility) to his master then, in a burst of light, reverted to, Nevetsecnuac's great surprise, his original (appearance) shape. With a potent dignity Dwengzur had levitated the talisman, which differed only in minuscule detail from that of Zonar’s, and after it had contained Samnuk, summoned it back to the chain around his neck.

 Noting Nevetsecnuac's remorse (empathy), Dwengzur evenly intoned, "Don't fret over it; Samnuk is a narcissistic, unfeeling entity that feeds on chaos. Your world will be lot safer now; but no need to thank me."  He then haughtily stepped on the cloud and commanded it to begin its ascent. Instantly he was whisked upwards to disappear through the ragged opening where the dome of the roof once was. A thunderclap followed and then came the deafening roar of a certain incomprehensible command which caused all the rubble to rise determinedly up into the air and be swiftly rearranged back into their original places (position).

Nevetsecnuac watched in amazement as the dome and walls promptly (in a flash) repaired themselves; then, abruptly, all about him went pitch black. As he stood there blinded by the blackness, he could feel the memory of those implausible (phantastic) events slipping away from him into oblivion (slipping out of his mind into nothingness, the void).

 

 

 

(END OF SECTION 8)   

 

LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL – SECTION 7 

The beast that was Dwengzur, shrieking as if to deafen the dead, transformed into a giant python and then coiled around Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) body, squeezing, and squeezing, restricting his breathing, and threatening to crush every bone. Yet, once more, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac's) imagination fought the spell and won the battle. Reluctantly, the python eased his grip, only to open its mouth wide, intending to swallow Fradel whole.

 

01-MONSTER SERPENT

Maddeningly, the unfazed Scholar now chortled in mystical serpent’s face. "Haven't you eaten enough already; I’d think twice about that if I, were you! You know full well I'm not going to perish, and I can do lot more harm in your gut than I can out here."

His bluff worked. The numinous python recoiled and instantly vanished in a puff of smoke and light. Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) found himself once more seated back at the table across from disgruntled (peeved) Dwengzur, as if non of that had happened.

Glaring at him over the rim of his cup, Dwengzur finished his sip then, shaking his head, ejected coldly, "You are indeed an exceptional being. For a human you are quite remarkable if I should say so myself. I can see now what qualities Zonar saw in you. I would like to indulge you some more, but I am rather pressed for time."  He glanced down for a brief second then returned his icy gaze to Scholar Fradel.

"I am going to ask you just one more time, and that is only because such a remarkable iron-willpower has earned you a measure of my respect; will you voluntarily submit to, my probing of your mind?"

“I’ll not now nor ever, oblige you in this unreasonable request." Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) responded resolutely because his distrust of Dwengzur had now reached its zenith. He would hence, come-what-may, be defiant and guard his secret.

Equally obdurate (obstinate), Dwengzur regretted that which he must do next; for he needed to uncover the extent of damage Zonar had done then deal with the problem accordingly. This last refusal afforded him the perfect excuse and means of absolution for the outrage he must now commit.

 "Very well, then." he shook his head dismally, "You’ve left me no other choice. You have only yourself to blame if things go awry and you are reduced to…” Dwengzur checked his tongue abruptly; but the grave threat implicit in his tone, gave Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) cause for concern and he pondered for a spell, on potential future consequence.

 

02-  FRADEL (NEVETSECNUAC)

Dwengzur in the interim had also paused, hopeful that Fradel would relent, yet no change was forthcoming.

"Fool! With your own obstinacy you have signed your own death warrant or perhaps even a fate worse than that."  Dwengzur shrugged off his irritation and looked away. “And thence, I will not be held accountable for the probable consequences." He muttered as if to reassure himself.

In truth (actuality), Dwengzur would rather not have resorted to that extreme measure, for to do so would be a mark of failure, admittance that he had been unsuccessful in mastering this situation, in besting this primitive life form.

Again, looking away, Dwengzur took mental inventory of the probable damage that Fradel Rurik Korvald might suffer, because of the “Tashork” spell:  First, there was a good chance that Fradel would come out of it dull-witted (stupid, slow) or even brain dead. Dwengzur had seen it happen before and it was not a pretty sight. Second, if this human still had significant contributions to make in his lifetime, his zombie state would seriously impede (hinder) or even alter providence (the course of destiny); then being held accountable, he (Dwengzur) would suffer the ultimate (extreme) punishment.

“Blasted, obstinate human; since you are forcing my hand, you should be held solely responsible for any dire outcome, not I; then again,” he paused to consider this: Regardless of circumstance, had his master ever shown any mercy, afforded him any sort of leeway? Dwengzur grumbled, fearing the worse.

Having run out of options, Dwengzur now uttered the incantation: “Tashork”, its power second only to that spell which raised the dead.

 Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) watched in wonder as the immortal Dwengzur changed his physical form and he became something entirely different. His eyes glowed and then blazed crimson and harsher, until they reached an incredible brightness in intensity; subsequently, an ancient cryptogram (symbol) manifested on his bare chest as the several streams of surging (electric) energy swirled about his body.

 

03- DWENGZUR ALTERING HIS APPARENCE

Try as he might, Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) could neither look away nor close his eyelids. Suddenly two blinding bolts of white light shot out from Dwengzur's burning orbs to, sear through Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac’s corneas) irises, to eventually attach themselves like shackles to the back of his eyes. Subsequently that part too, painfully melted away as the piercing light penetrated to the centre his brain.

Mesmerized, Nevetsecnuac was rendered powerless to prevent the steady infringement which permeated next, deep into the very recesses, the very core of his (soul) being.  Unable to resist this most potent of magic, in his frozen state Nevetsecnuac, with eyes wide open, was forced to endure being terribly violated (breached) till such a time when he sank into a deep, vacant stupor.

In few minutes Dwengzur had retrieved the information he needed and much, much more.

Dwengzu had, meanwhile, severed the link and hence, once more reverted to his old form (appearance). He sat back pondering on all that amassed knowledge; all that he, through clairvoyant (psychic, telepathic) means, had learned about the recent past, and the immediate future yet to unfold. His gaze affixed on this remarkable, though enigmatic (mysterious), heroic Prince, he studied him long and hard, cataloging the intriguing facts and accidental fluctuations, into proper apertures (slots) in his brain.  He smiled, having now fully grasped, just what it was that had made Fradel Rurik Korvald, rather, Prince Nevetsecnuac Alric Therran Valamir, (also known by so many other, assumed names, Svein, Audun Codenz, Tonng Yennik,) such a remarkable, worthy individual; he carried the gene of Ingolf, the founding father of Wenjenkun, and that’s why he had stood out so tall above the rest of the mortal rabble around him. Dwengzur had, furthermore, grasped that the basis for the affinity and mutual respect between Zonar and Nevetsecnuac being much more; and finally, despite all of his bigoted protestations, conceeded that the prince had as well now secured his (Dwengzur’s) lasting admiration.

Nevetsecnuac’s past combats in the moral realm alone, were enough to stir his (Dwengzur’s) essence to the very core. In that brief instant, Dwengzur had drunk deep of this most intoxicating wealth of human emotions: the boundless, infinite love, the uncompromising sense of duty, intense loyalty, supreme sacrifices, the filial piety, and the remarkable courage not only of Nevetsecnuac’s, but also of the rest (contacts, his associates). So passionately intense these overpowering emotions had been that it had pierced his, (figuratively speaking,) stone heart and shaken him to the very root, altering his lifelong attitude (estimation), as well, eradicating all his prior prejudices against humans.

Dwengzur additionally sympathized with Nevetsecnuac’s past endured hardships, and he appreciated akin rebellious defiant acts, towards his oppressors. Dwengzur, meanwhile, had glimpsed at the immediate future, within a month, events beyond that were hidden to him; and so, he glanced towards Zaur Stugr, seated at the side, little ways off, and then shook his head.

“Pity, that outcome could have been altered significantly if it were not for the pervasive mistrust imbued in every facet of their beings. However, he could not see providence too far ahead; so perhaps the outcome could still be different.”

Dwengzur did have it within his means to change this, but the law forbade interference in fate (providence), and that law could never be broken. “Perhaps if I put forward an appeal to my master and through him to Elder Aegeus?”  He looked down grimly and shook his head, knowing the uselessness of such an attempt.

Draconian laws…Shame of it all. For there could be no exception to those irrevocable rules.

But just as abruptly the feeling of dishonor (shame), a newly acquired strange notion, now gnawed at him. Having lived through Nevetsecnuac’s experiences, his innate selfish, sadistic, vile, crass, and vindictive nature had been, albeit temporarily, altered. Dwengzur at present, moreover, felt compassion and mercy also invading his heart for the first time ever. With this strange, alien concept, suddenly, goodness was born in him, and he desired to be benevolent. He will start by helping this prince; there must be a way to circumvent, at least some of that dire portended peril, and so, he raked (combed) his brains for doable succor (assistance, support).

Oh, but wait, there was still more! …  

Dwengzur’s innate powers had suddenly detected this, surprising (unbidden), telepathic divulgence (acknowledgement, transmission) emanating from Prince Nevetsecnuac’s subconscious mind. This part had been prior hidden from Dwengzur, because Prince Nevetsecnuac was entirely ignorant of it as well. 

04- THE UNEXPECTED REVELATION

What was that?!  The updated information that was, unpredictably forthcoming, revealed to Dwengzur now- because of his rare, outstanding clairvoyant abilities to see the past events, not in entirety but sometimes in erratic glimpses, manifestations, and this had been one such glitch- was most extraordinary revelation to assimilate. An electrifyingly startling fact that it was, it temporarily halted (paused)his breath and interrupted Dwengzur’s core being (his vital essence).

Even so, taking hold of his senses, Dwengzur accepted the full measure of this streaming account, and now he became indubitably aware of these starkly dangerous revelations that had rushed to compound his worry:

Prince Nevetsecnuac’s lineage, from maternal side, was…. This new revelation shocked Dwengzur to the core; he could not believe what he was assimilating (absorbing, learning) … He had also acquired the vital, most sobering, shocking revelations about Nevetsecnuac’s innate (distinctive) genetic factors… It explained, why his existence (life) was so vital (imperative) to Elder Aegeus, Elder Olavingemar, Elder Sthetor and more importantly, to Zonar. Now that he knew the identity of Nevetsecnuac’s mother,  with that dawned the realization that this young man was nephew of… Zonar…. And furthermore, he carried the ancient bloodline, akin Elder Aegeus (of Karn) and Kongrus, of Elder Olavingemar and Elder Sthetor … and much, much more… The presaged (portended) consequences were astounding! Oh my!

Dwengzur had considered it, only for a spell, to readily let his master acquire this knowledge at the time of his inevitable capture; the shock of it, might spare him from the severest part of his punishment, the dreaded chastisement, result of his audacious feat, his absconding (escaping) from his prison.

Dwengzur, shook his head dismally, knowing all too well of his master’s temperament, aware (understanding) also that nothing would lessen his certain, horrific reprimand (penalty).

In truth, Dwengzur hated his master, for his long borne (endured) cruel enslavement…. His master was entirely devoid of any feeling or mercy; besides which, Dwengzur suspected, his master (more a warden), his everlasting tormentor, was more ambitious than he led on, and that he for a long while, not unlike Sthetor, had espoused a secret agenda….

If his master acquired (learned, absorbed) any of these forbidden facts and chose to collude with Sthetor, this remarkable being’s life would be forfeit…Nevetsecnuac would be hunted down and eliminated instantly by Sthetor.

As for the prophesy…Dwengzur wanted that to happen... Hah, what a joke! Here was a rare chance for retribution (payback, reconning).  He wanted the Elders of Karn completely obliterated, consequence of kinfolk (clan, relations) pitted against each other, paving the way for an absolute domination of both realms. The altruistic Karn’s swift elimination would then be a certainty after the annihilation of all mortal realms, as Sthetor had always been the secret vassal of the restrained, ultimate evil incarnate…

Dwengzur pensively nodded in the affirmative when the stark realization set in; by then, he’d fully comprehended (grasped) the high stakes, convinced now that this anomaly (incongruity), this young prince endowed (gifted) with such remarkable faculty (prowess and rare bloodline from both parents), had solely the potential, a unique variance to alter even his (Dwengzur’s) doomed existence. Moreover, he wished to protect this gallant youth… and felt strongly that the prince deserved to live and accomplish what he was destined to do. Thus, it was imperative that his master be forbad (prevented, hindered) from acquiring any of this vital info he now possessed! He was also determined to keep this secret, everlastingly, not only from his master but also from the Elders of Karn and more importantly, the evil incarnate Sthetor of Kongruls.

A deep concern, subsequently, furrowed his brow, for he did not know how best to stop his master from acquiring this data the instant (moment) Dwengzur was captured and claimed, and this inevitability was only a matter of time. Long before this, he’d resigned himself to the anticipated tenfold hellish torment for his already committed breach; so why not compound his deemed felonious acts, with just one more: That’s right, there was that!

He smiled. There was only one way to keep all the pertinent data about Nevetsecnuac’s true origin (ancestry), as well, the info about the magic brush/sword, from ever being disclosed; he would permanently erase, purge it entirely, from both his conscious and subconscious mind, by way of “Expunging (purging) Hex”.

This recently acquired unusual incantation (spell) had once before, enabled him to escape certain repercussions from his master. That memory being removed, he could not recall what blunder (fault) had been which needed erased, what it was about, except that it had something to do with being duped by Egil Viggoaries …. what? Why was he thinking of …. shapeshifting? No matter…. Dwengzur shrugged, and focusing instead, on the present dilemma, he disdainfully (scornfully) grunted.  Hmm, unfortunately, he’d paid a hefty consequence (price) after invoking that Spell! 

That awful repercussion being still so fresh in his memory, that excruciating pain… he was naturally reluctant to repeat it. But feeling genuine remorse for what he had done to this fine prince, also for selfish reasons, wanting to get back at his master and wanting to beget willful harm to Elders of Karn- Dwengzur, first isolating and then concentrating (focusing) on the specific memories- he hastily invoked “Expunging Hex”, before he had a chance to change his mind.

05- DWENGZUR  PERFORMING -EXPUNGING HEX

After it was all over, what he wished to forget completely expunged from memory and, thankfully his suffering had assuaged, specific memories completely gone (being removed), he could not rightly recall what blunder (fault) he had committed this time. Despite the brain fog however, he felt the urgency of it and that it had something to do with the scholar, Fradel Rurik Korvald and that he needed it to fix it. Something about a mistake…. Dwengzur, turned and apologetically stared (gazed, took a good long look) at Fradel…Or , rather Nevetsecnuac, that’s right, he now recollected, that was his true name.

“If your cause is just, you will have had the protection of Gods … That is what’s need now.”  Dwengzur moaned; he hesitated for a moment, fearing the possible dreaded outcome of using the neutralizing “Ne-Tashork” spell, on Nevetsecnuac. Then, bracing self, Dwenzur intoned (chanted, hummed) the counter spell to and afterwards, blew a breath onto Nevetsecnuac's face.

As he waited, he inwardly prayed for the other’s true self to emerge unscathed from that violent intrusion. For a second, feeling like an eternity, nothing had changed in those blank eyes then, to Dwengzur’s great relief, he saw the rekindled (embers,) smoldering fires of anger, increasing in intensity in Nevetsecnuac's pupils.

Instantly, Nevetsecnuac knew his true identity had been exposed. "Now that you know, just what are your intentions?"  Livid with rage, he was prepared to die if needed be, in the attempt to stop Dwengzur.

Unexpectedly, Dwengzur smiled and bowed to Nevetsecnuac respectfully. His voice filled with unmistakable remorse; he apologized for his presumption and quickly reminded the prince of the policy of noninterference.

"You have grievously misjudged me," he added in a hurtful tone. "I truly meant you no real harm. Besides, all this could have been avoided had you instead of goading (provoking), exhibited least bit of faith (trust) in me. Naturally, I had consulted the stars and already knew the fated outcome before I warned Egil Viggories about Fradel Rurik Korvald, or rather yourself.  I knew even then that none of the Dark Eunuch’s actions would alter anything, and they didn't, had they? You are here safe, are you not?"

Nevetsecnuac was about to respond when he was cut short by a sudden mounting sound of an angry thunder overhead that shook the building to its foundations. To his amazement he noted the undisguised fear in Dwengzur's eyes.

 

 “What…  Is he trembling?” 

 

                                                                                 ~

 

 

(END OF SECTION 7)