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)

 

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE CAPITAL CHANNING – SECTION 10

 

In truth, Zaur Stugr had searched long and hard for these many years and had finally given up all hope of ever uncovering the truth and of finding out what had happened to his father. Then, just when he least expected it, because of the strange twist of fate the answer had miraculously reached out to him.

“I must relay the message through a courier (an affiliate Kozur) at dawn to, without further ado, retrieve my father's remains from that hellish pit.” Zaur Stugr nodded with resolve. Unfortunately, Zaur’s full schedule did not allowed him to leave the Capital to supervise the work himself, for nothing short of a miracle, would enable him to facilitate his being absent from his official duties long enough to conduct a proper burial with full rights and ceremony befitting the station of his Father. The burden of his office was most exacting (demanding, rigorous) on his time, same as every other official regardless of their status in Channing, for each official was constantly monitored, their every action and allotted time incessantly regulated and documented (registered), under the entrenched (engrained) layers of bureaucracy with its rigid regulatory standards and lawful domination. Not a single unsanctioned intake of breath could be taken without dire repercussions, under such oppressive and absolute rule of Emperor Zakhertan Yozdek.

01-ZAKHERTAN YOZDEDK  (44)JP

 “Perhaps when this whole business with Fradel Rurik Korvald is concluded I may find the means; I promise you, Father, your spirit will find eternal peace in Heaven while your foul murderers will pay for their nefarious deeds in Hell.”  In irritation Zaur drummed his fingers upon the box.

If only he was free, free to do what he wished without the piercing eyes of Lamont Gudaren, Zakhertan’s invincible militia and that cursed Eunuch’s Black Molochs monitoring his every move!  Regardless of all the power he wielded, and yes, he was a covert (surreptitious) rebel leader, nonetheless existing (functioning) and even thriving, under the domineering, tyrannical canopy; unfortunately, at this very moment he’d realized he was nothing but a pawn of capricious fate after all. Indubitably, in the end, his every feat (act, achievement, engagement), encounters had been preordained (predetermined, fated) by the Heavenly Gods ‘dictates.

“And you, oh my most unfortunate Father, your fate had always been far more tragic than mine could ever be!” Zaur Stugr, shamefaced, groaned, recalling Sorgun's confession to him that night long ago when Zaur was a young boy…Young and utterly innocent.

 Only years later had Zaur comprehended the full implications of those words and, from then on, had remained eternally grateful to Lord Wutenzar Thuxur Marrog Zhon. He had henceforth honored His Lordship's memory in secret each year, on the day of Festival for the Dead.  He owed so much to Lord Zhon for all that he had done to extricate his father from the wrongful indictment and later still, for restoring him to his rightful (position) status.  But then because of the capriciousness of fate, more troubles had beset them.

Zaur Stugr’s mind presently recollected those perilous times back then, with the country in the grips of chaos (turmoil) and incessant wars, remembering most vividly, his father's sleepless nights that were spent endlessly pouring over documents, attending clandestine meetings, arranging for the provisions of armaments and his ceaselessly pacing the floor in his study until the (wee) small hours of the morning. 

Then, once more being constrained to flee, they had journeyed to far away alien lands where they had encountered (met) strange people with different (unfamiliar) dialects and customs; only to covertly return, though remain invisible, amid mainstream (ordinary) denizen obscurity (anonymity).

“Oh, father!  Father! “Zaur Stugr’s heart ached as if he had just become an orphan once more.  He leaned back, lowering his eyelids on the tears that welled up unbidden.

Zaur choked, recalling another time and another place that seemed like an eternity ago.

Zaur saw it all again in his mind’s eye, as vividly as if it was just happening before him that last exchange with his father, Sorgun Dufo. (Note: Learn all about Sorgun Dufo, in Book 6- The Assassins- Section 10)

02-- SORGUN DUFO

Sorgun Dufo stroked his son’s hair with a grave face and looked into his young eyes.  "Now, pay attention, Kundrick."

“Kundrick Dufo,” Zaur softly whispered his childhood name; he had not the occasion to think of it for many years now.

 "Listen son, circumstances dictate that I should go away for a while.  Wenjenkun is in the grip of grave peril, and I have it within my (power) means to alter its ill-fated course.  I must undertake a very dangerous task, and time is of the essence.  Hopefully I will achieve my goal and spare this nation of ours from the impending catastrophe.  Though you may be only a child my son, you are strong enough to be entrusted with grave responsibility.  Take this box and guard it with your life, if necessary, until my return.  You must not fail in this, for inside is proof of the allegations I will be bringing before our Illustrious Sovereign Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir. Without them all is lost."

Zaur Stugr caressed the box once more, holding it as he had gripped it as a child (of about nine years old), feeling the weight of its importance. 

"In the meantime,", Sorgun had continued, "I have arranged for you to remain in the good care of my old friend, Sanzo Tezcat.  I know you are a strong-willed boy despite your polite manners, and I charge you now to behave and do as Sanzo says. Do not give me the least cause to regret this decision.  When I return to reclaim the box, I will explain everything to you, in full detail." 

But his father never returned.

“As discerning as you were, Father,” Zaur Stugr smiled wryly, “even you did not grasp how you were being played (toyed) by fickle fate.  You did not perceive, had no way of knowing of Sanzo's secret life.  How things might have turned out differently, had either of you, more specifically him, breached that wall of secrecy and taken the other, you, into confidence.  You are not entirely to blame though father; after all, you pursued a common cause and trusted him (a confirmed bachelor) well enough to leave me, your only son, in his care. “

“It was clearly not negligence on your part; perhaps it was Sanzo's excellent disguise, crafted so well it had fooled even a childhood friend such as you.” Zaur lowered his head in woeful air.

“How capricious fate is.”

To be sure, (definitely) Sanzo Tezcat had been a master of camouflage; what’s more, he had been bound by his blood oath of allegiance sworn in complete secrecy to the Sacred Brotherhood of the Kozurs.  Since even blood relatives were kept in the dark (unless it was sanctioned by the brotherhood to reveal it, and that happened hardly ever,) Sanzo Tezcat could not have confided in Sorgun Dufo even if he had desperately wanted to, even if it were to save his own life.  So serious were the repercussions of breaking the oath that even the most horrible death was preferable to betraying the Brotherhood.

03- SANZO TESCAT (2)

Zaur’s noble father had never suspected that this bookish (studious, thoughtful), benevolent, and foolishly idealistic, equable (composed, placid) erudite (scholarly, historian), who always seemed to be lost in some fantasy world of his own so distant from the crude realities of present life and politics, was anything more than what he seemed.  And so, at the time, Sanzo Tezcat must have seemed the ideal, safe candidate to entrust with the safekeeping of young Kundrick Dufo.  Besides, Sorgun Dufo's own scruples and good conscience would not have permitted him to involve (or recruit) his childhood friend Sanzo, this idealistic, gentle soul into the perilous, clandestine struggle that took up his every waking moment.

Perhaps that was the root, true basis for his father's undoing; he should have looked deeper into the man’s soul, should have questioned the obvious when it came too easily.  Sanzo, a wolf in sheep's clothing, would have proved invaluable in altering the course of Sorgun's doom.

Vividly Zaur recalled the look of panic in Sanzo Tezcat 's eyes when, just three days after leaving with Sorgun Dufo on a mission, Tojo Tugo was spotted (was seen) in the crowd across the market square.

In an instant metamorphosis, Sanzo had dropped all semblance of his benign, placid (docile) disguise and clearly incensed (irked), hastened (rushed) Kundrick home at once.  Within the space of an hour, they were packed and ready for the flight to disappear in hiding.  Cursing furiously, Sanzo Tezcat had slammed things about and committed countless, obviously important documents to the roaring flames of the kitchen fire.

Despite his forced restraint, Zaur gritted his teeth and cursed the name, Tojo, Tojo Tugo, father of Imperial Captain Zunrogo Tugo.

 “May you burn like dry leaves in Hell for your treachery! “Zaur scowling cussed (swore, cursed).

Many nights since the time when he had first pieced the facts together, Zaur Stugr had anguished over the dilemma. 

Zunrogo Tugo had been a mere child back then, could he be held morally accountable for his father's heinous crimes?  In the end Zaur had exonerated Zunrogo from all blame and did not exact lawful revenge on him.

Despite this resolve, Zaur Stugr had held, in the depth of his heart, a strong dislike for Captain of the Palace Guards, Zunrogo Tugo.  If it were up to him, alone, the Undersecretary's Office would have had no dealings whatsoever with this arrogant, martinet (despot, bully).  Unfortunately, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren had long ago recognized Zunrogo’s specific talents and, over the course of the ensuing years had engaged his increasingly invaluable services to successfully carry out the most difficult of the Prime Minister's sinister schemes.

As Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren’s avowed subordinate (in official capacity), Minister Zaur Stugr was constrained to maintain an outward (superficial) civil relation with Zunrogo, son of Tojo the traitor; and when bid to do so, enable (facilitate) the despised Captain to augment (expand) his influence and fortunes. Despite solid evidence, Zaur suspected Zunrogo Tugo of having other affiliates, moreover, a far more powerful patron (benefactor) than PM, not ruling out the possibility of that sponsor being someone from the Royal Yozdek Family.

At this point Zaur's mind, unexpectedly, reverted to his childhood.

"How will Father find us?  I'm not going anywhere." Zaur remembered crying out as he squirmed and wrestled against the servants with all his might, steadfastly refusing to budge an inch. 

That was the first time that Zaur (Kurndrick Dufo) had ever defied his father's dictate.

Zaur smiled, recalling how stubborn and cheeky (rebellious) he’d been back then.

 As it were, when threat, force and reasoning failed to sway Kundrick Dufo, the steward Lios then had resorted to a ruse.  Pretending to have briefly consulted Sanzo Tezcat, wily (crafty) Lios had, by choosing his words very carefully, reassured Kundrick that Sorgun Dufo had already sent word to Sanzo that he would meet with them at their intended destination once his pursuers were thrown off his trail.

04- FEARLES KUNDRICK DUFO

When defiant Kundrick had boldly confronted his guardian in his study later still, demanding Sanzo validate this info, Sanzo Tezcat had simply suppressed an outward venting of his displeasure (at this obstinate upstart) and glared sternly at Kundrick.

 His gruff silence had, oddly enough, reaffirmed in Kundrick’s mind that the words Lios had spoken were the truth.  Thus beguiled, Kundrick Dufo (Zaur Stugr) had then complied willingly with all that was expected of him. 

After they had fled to safety, Kundrick had waited fruitlessly for many a day, looking forward to that time when he would be reunited with his father. Every night before going to sleep he’d envisioned (in his mind’s eye) the joyful event, how he would eagerly, elatedly greet his father and then excitedly blather away, recounting (relaying) the many hair-raising adventures he had already experienced.

When their urgent flight to safety had warranted a third move within one year, Kundrick Dufo bit more wizened (more able to discern a lie from the truth) and skeptical, this time he’d adamantly stood his ground, obstinate and unafraid.  Raising quite a ruckus he’d demanded the full explanation he felt was his right to have. On the verge of being bound, gagged, and forcibly transported, Sanzo Tezcat just then arriving on the disordered scene, in an icy tone (a voice commanding absolute obedience), had barked, “Put the boy down.”

Zaur could still envisage (visualize, picture) the riveting scene, how Sanzo’s brief, forbidding look that fanned the room had instantly frozen all commotion (clamor) and frenzied protestations.

 A tomblike (deadly) lethal tension had gripped the room as all, save for Kundrick, stood perfectly still with their heads lowered in abject contrition.

Sanzo Tezcat with slow, deliberate steps, hands clasped behind him, walked over to the window, and gazed absently outside; he stood there for what seemed an eternity, his hand then (grasping) resting on the hilt of his partially hidden stiletto (an ancient, ceremonial dagger). Sanzo’s dark green, piercing eyes subsequently had reverted back to Kundrick Dufo; noting with some amusement, the boy’s adamant stance and the unflinching stare of defiance returned back to him, Sanzo simply nodded.

In truth, despite the just then wavering, inexplicable fear Kundrick had felt in the pit of his stomach, determined not to show any weakness, he had obdurately (pig-headedly) tunneled his hard gaze into Sanzo's eyes.

The steward Lios, having been rather fond of the indomitable boy and at that moment fearing for his safety, had defied his subservient place to cough gently and to flash Kundrick with a worried look.

Quite unexpectedly however, Sanzo's face had suddenly softened (relaxed) and he threw his head back and gave a loud, boisterous laugh that resounded in the tense stillness of the air.

"Ignorance makes a lion of the lamb (young sheep)." Kundrick thought he heard Sanzo Tezcat grumble under his breath as he walked over (drew near) to the boy and seated himself comfortably into a plush chair.

“Who’s he calling a lamb?” Zaur remembered well, how he’d inwardly seethed in rage at the time. He was a real firebrand (a troublemaker, a real hothead) back then.

Kundrick’s fury unleashed he stood ready to pounce on Sanzo, “I’ll show him...” 

But then, steward Lios, catching the boy's attention just then, his eyes had implored Kundrick to keep still and to concede, warning him of dire chastisement if he persisted with his defiance.

05-SANZO TESCAT (10)

Sanzo Tezcat, well composed, with his hard gaze glued to Kundrick Dufo, had pondered on a concern for quite some time, as though the urgency of their flight had never existed and as if they had all the time in the world to spare.  In contrast, these precarious moments had dragged on, for Kundrick and presumably, for his friend and ally, Lios.

Then unexpectedly Sanzo had slightly leaned forward and indicated that Kundrick was to take the seat across from him as, with a singular look, he dismissed the steward and the rest of the servants from the room.  Kundrick Dufo, unflinchingly never taking his eyes once off his guardian, had complied.

Instead of the admonishment he had expected, however, Sanzo had, in a sympathetic, patient tone, promised that one day, when it was appropriate for him to do so, Kundrick would receive all the pertinent knowledge that he sought and that he, Sanzo himself, would answer unequivocally all Kundrick’s queries without the least reserve.

“Until then,” Sanzo had austerely ejected next, “it would be most dangerous for a boy of your stature (station), to possess too much knowledge.”

Looking away Sanzo had then in a softer tone distractedly added, “And since it seems we would be together for quite a long while, I prefer to have our relationship be, more affable (amiable).”

Sanzo, rebounding from that momentary sentiment quickly however, had again austerely exhorted (urged) Kundrick to behave, as his father would have wanted him to, with the decorum becoming of his station and to show the perseverance and self-discipline that was his innate (inherent) good breeding. 

Most incredible, Sorgun Dufo had been one of those rare, exceptional individuals (persons) who had won Sanzo's eternal gratitude and affection. Fortunately for Kundrick Dufo, he had been the beneficiary of all that respect Sanzo had held (felt) for his father and, though the boy had been nothing but a liability thus far, in fact, by this last defiant spectacle (demonstration) worn rather thin his privilege, Kundrick, as sole exception, had still been tolerated by his guardian.  Zaur had learned years later how dangerously close he’d come to being slayed that day.

It had taken tremendous amount of self-control on Sanzo’s part, not to have lashed out and simply offed (killed) the boy; in the end, during his pondering Sanzo seeing something in the boy, (in fact Kundrick had reminded him of his own unruly childhood-self,) that Sanzo had decided from henceforth, to judge the boy on his own merit (instead of his father's) and to give him one last chance.

Sanzo then had communicated to Kundrick in no uncertain terms that, if he wished to remain under his guardianship and in his good graces, absolute obedience was required and expected of him. The underlying tone of this last part (of Sanzo’s speech) had been most firm and severe, leaving no room for discussion or negotiation.

 

(END OF SECTION 10)

 

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