13- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR - SECTION 7

BOOK 13- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR – SECTION 7

01- STHETOR IMMORTAL (17)JP

 

The powerful alien immortal Sthetor unseen, from the clouds had been for some time now quietly observing the intriguing set of events, which had been transpiring on the mountain where Lord Asger, Nevetsecnuac’s wife Tekuob, and his children, the toddler twins resided.

The complicated human family dynamics, specifically the peril in the name of Egil Viggoaries, the seething animosity of the prodigal son, had at first mildly diverted Sthetor’s base imagination. As he watched the scene unfold however, other key (strategic, advantageous) factors tallied up in Sthetor’s calculating, diabolical mind; meanwhile, he had concurrently (simultaneously) become aware of the prominence of these trifling mortal beings, explicitly the mortal wife of Nevetsecnuac.

She could, if nothing else, be utilized as an effective tool for negotiating a leverage, a bargaining chip or simply to subjugate or quell (control, defeat) Nevetsecnuac at that critical future altercation.

It was on that basis that Sthetor (who held all mortals in contempt) had eventually decided on an apt interference; consequently, his arresting (halting, postponing) her certain demise.

02- IMMORTAL STHETOR TAKES TEKUOB TO A REMOTE, MAGICAL ISLAND (24)

Afterwards, Immortal Sthetor had swiftly whisked her away to a remote, supernaturally (mystically) hidden island in midst of a vast (immense) ocean, where the towering mountain peaks perpetually lay hidden by the dense miasma (fog, clouds).

In a secure facility, top of an ancient tower, she was thence (covertly) incarcerated for an indefinite (unspecified) period till she served her purpose, feasibly by then abetting Sthetor’s slated (planned) impending lofty ambitions.

03- TEKUOB A PRISONER, ON ISLAND, MISSING HER CHILDREN (62)

Tekuob’s position (inmate status) during this period, was to be a little better than an abject prisoner, though a carefully monitored one and diligently guarded by the remarkably intelligent, intuitive, antediluvian hairy creatures immense in size, with canine fangs, long sharp talons (claws) and sporting a long tale. These gentle giants also shared the same genome characteristics of pale blue orbs as eyes and high ridged (patrician) noses; the male species however had long white furs, while the female ones had dark greyish cobalt (cerulean) fur and were much smaller in size.

These robust sentinels towering well over nine feet, called Wolfgarous, were the original inhabitants of this island. An island that existed, since time immemorial between two spheres of existence, the surreal (supernatural, unearthly, mystical) and the real (actual) tangible world.

It is also important to note that Wolfgarous (these naïve and trusting creatures) had once been, for a short duration ruled (enslaved) by a small group of domineering, demigods (superbeings) Kentors.

03- TEKUOB A PRISONER, ON ISLAND, MISSING HER CHILDREN (62)

A faction of Kentors, on route to known mercantile continent, for a decade had been hopelessly lost at sea and then quite by accident driven by violent storms, (landed) chanced on this island and from thereon, decided to set up permanent root there.

These Kentors were not benevolent, far from it, they were truculent (pugnacious), belligerent beings; during the ensued century Kentor’s established hierarchy had spun spells and, by design kept the indigenous (native) Wolfgarous race from evolving into higher form. The twenty elite members of Kentors, meanwhile, for a time had collectively governed this island, siphoning and hording the riches for their own sole use.

The enslaved Wolfgarous suffered ineffable barbarisms during this time, particularly in subterranean coalfields and silver mines, and consequently, their numbers had dwindled (reduced).

Peaceful coexistence, however, had never been part of Kentor’s dogma (code, tenet); subsequently, this warmongering race before long was again embroiled in internal turmoil which tore apart what had been established (built). Consequently, the ongoing internal strife (rivalry, discord) and the resultant catastrophic purges, all but destroyed (eliminated) the domination of the ruling aristocracy of Kentor’s and their descendants. By the time the dust and ash had settled, there remained no sole elite bloodline, nor a single living ordinary Kentor at all, on the island.

The indomitable (tough, steadfast) rebel force of Wolfgarous, meanwhile, surviving these catastrophic times and the ensued devastating expunges (eliminations), once freed from their oppressors, they had later undergone a significant evolutionary divide:

One branch still calling themselves Wolfgarous, the robust (stout) gentle giants, became the noble warriors and sentinels. They did all the necessary menial work, maintained peace and order, and lived simply and plainly.

05- WOLFGAROUS - JP 111

The other, the kind that had ambition and so evolved markedly different, stepped into the void left by the Kentors and assumed the new role of ecclesiastical (clerical, priestly) aristocracy (gentry, the new ruling class,) and they were called Terekons.

The apostolic segregated group Terekons, who had by then additionally lost all excessive body hair, fangs, talons, their prominent tale and good part of the old dragon genome characteristics, presently dwelled in high (altitude) elevations and in caves or in hidden temples- sturdy sarsen structures buried amidst dense forests- never seeing the sunlight, for they had by then converted into an entirely different nocturnal species.

Terekons, who had also been transformed into cerebral (logical, analytical), magical entities but now resembled humans, all had pallid (ghostly white) complexion, long white hairs (sometimes white beards), and pointy ears. They had extensively longer lifespans than ordinary mortals, but not as long as the Wofgarous; and, their spoken dialects, sometimes used clairvoyantly, were unknown to any other earthly species. Under the long white gowns they had specific mark, a tattoo on upper chest which at specific times, depending on the cycle of the moon, flared up, announcing that they could then interrupt their lifestyle of celibacy, revert to by choice either gender, then mate (copulate), a required functionality to continue their species.

06- TEREKONS, THE APOSTOLIC EVOLVED GROUP THAT LIVES IN CAVES  (46)

Erroneously, meanwhile, both Wofgarous and the Terekons held the belief that Sthetor was an omnipotent God, who from time to time visited the island to guide the devout congregates (religious flocks) which had set up alters and doggedly worshipped him.

Sthetor had of course a specific future use for these beings; for the time being, however, he had played along; and, to continue perpetuating their belief, Almighty Sthetor when appropriately bribed, once in a while even deigned to perform miracles or fulfilled their (wolfgarous and Terekons’s) reasonable wishes.

Be that as it may, it is important to note at this point, however, that Immortal Sthetor from the very start had disdained (spurned, looked down on) the Wolfarous, deeming them inferior (substandard, defective), primordial creatures not worth his bother. He furthermore despised (scorned) them for their lack of aspiration and confounded way of contact (communicating); nevertheless, he still used them, in this case to guard and monitor Tekuob.

Understanding this fact, Tekuob was careful to conceal her actual high regard for these terribly underestimated and snubbed species; as well, her gradually (painstakingly) amassed vital facts (info), gained useful traits, and at least three advantageous feats (accomplishments)… For she had not given up the desire of escaping Sthetor’s clutches.

Wolfarous’s unusual, biological Vocal cords (also called vocal folds- which are two bands of elastic muscle tissue and mucous membrane located inside the larynx at the top of the windpipe, the trachea) as it were, had impeded (hindered) their, akin to human vernacular; though they still laudably (meritoriously) communicated via ingeniously devised (concocted, invented) sign-language. Additionally, they utilized variation of grunts, howls, and other animalistic sounds to effectively convey true intent, threat, warning or, simply to converse (talk chat).

Bigoted Sthetor had naturally misjudged (miscalculated) the complexity of their exchange; having no such jaundiced (cynical) opinions against Wolfarous however, Tekuob marvelled at the intricacies of this, most challenging way of discourse (dialog). Moreover, driven by curiosity, she therefore, began astutely analyzing, studying (learning), observing (probing), and then experimenting in mimicking (imitating, mirroring) their typical natter.

07- WOLFGAROUS CONVERSING (6) JP

It had taken Tekuob good seven or eight months to fully comprehend this most remarkably complex (multifaceted) and arduous sign-language and chinwag; however, (owing to her high intelligence) once she had mastered it, from then on, she had been able to effectively communicate with her captures. Thus, Tekuob no longer felt vulnerable or forlorn, furthermore, she had gradually won them over.

Wolfarous sentinels’ increasing high regard for her, plus their mutual distrust of Sthetor, worked to Tekuob’s advantage; the sentinels now provided (fed) Sthetor innocuous or false intelligence while they genuinely protected her from Sthetor’s malevolent whims and deleterious (harmful, toxic) orders.

Tekuob, by then had also approached a particularly intelligent, upright, gallant and kind guard named Koever. He was, as near as it could be understood, a sole survivor of a noble clan of Wolfarous, a secret (anonymous, hidden) prince, who carried within him therefore a genome from an ancient bloodline that was long extinct.

Koever had been initially standoffish and unsociable; besides being much younger than the rest of her guards assigned to her, he was inherently bashful (wary, cautious) and reticent (silent, reserved) a sentry. Then, she had noticed little oddities about him, some endearing characteristics, which made her trust him even more; and so, she had persisted with her approach, and in time it had paid off. Because of their mutual innate curiosity and atypical (uncommon) thirst for knowledge, as they learned of each other’s worlds, they became secret friends (chums), and in time their friendship bond grew.

Koever being overly generous in nature, he would periodically gift Tekuob rare treats from his own reserves; though these morsels of sustenance (foodstuff) and liquids (nectars and fruit drinks) were alien in taste, they were still markedly more palatable (delicious) and nutritious. She was therefore most appreciative of his thoughtful gestures and thanked him profusely, which made Koever in turn, as near as it could be, blush (embarrassed); thus ensued, his prompt gesture of dismissal, as he was unaccustomed to gratitude and being truly seen (understood).

08-  KOEVER (WOLFGAROUS GUARD) BRINGS TREATS TO TEKUOB (8) JP6

One ordinary (normal) afternoon when they happened to be alone and, during their usual discourse Koever’s thumb, just then had accidentally brushed (touched) Tekuob’s hand: he froze instantly and his expression grew grim, for he had just then sensed that Tekuob had a special kind of poison, from a viper bite, which still coursed in her veins that might one day without probable cause, beget her hazarding ramifications, eventually resulting in her death.

“What is it?” Tekuob with concern, motioned (asked).

“Have you ever been bitten by a poisonous snake?” Koever hastily gestured (signed).

“Yes, some time ago, a Dakoe viper, however, I overcame it.” She answered him, her eyes meeting his, curiously searching his stern gaze, then asked, using the same sign language. “Why?”

He silently studied her for a while, then somberly shook his head then motioned: “The poison is still in you, coursing through your veins and damaging your constitution.” Then he grew even more serious and dejectedly looked away.

“You must be mistaken; I feel perfectly fine.” Tekuob, was about to protest, but he held up his hand to stop her signing, then communicated: “That may be true for now but…” He paused, for he did not wish to frighten her. The anxiety and the serious disquiet in his demeanor, and the frantic way of his subsequent sign language, told her more than he was willing to relay. She urged him to be frank with her and not hold back.

Reluctantly he nodded; thence, swiftly, and succinctly, conveyed the rest of what he knew.

“So, I am doomed; it’s only a matter of time before I’ll be…”

“Not necessarily.” He rushed to reassure her; then fell abruptly still while his pensive gaze focused on a distant point. Inwardly he was debating how much he could tell her, and besides, he was not certain it would work. He did not wish to raise her hopes then dash them; worst still, instead of curing her, it might hasten her end (death)!

She had, meanwhile, patiently waited for him to resolve his inner dilemma. He stealthily once or twice glanced at her. Tekuob was so stoic and endearingly trustful of him!

Koever’s heart ached; in the end he knew he must try, for he would do anything to keep her alive.

09- TEKUOB AND  WOLFGAROUS (3)JP

Subsequently, he communicated to her without reserve and, revealed Wolfarous’s closely guarded secret. Tekoub then learned how some Wolfarous carried a genetic marker in their blood, which had healing properties. However, as Wolfarous had not dealt with her species before, he could not predict the outcome of it; hence, he had hesitated.

He had simultaneously and prudently chosen to remain silent about the other secret: the fact that, a royal Wolfarous’s blood (which he carried) was most detrimental (perilous) to certain races, such as Kongruls of the Race of Karn, that he knew of, which incidentally, Sthetor was one. That a single drop of his blood was enough to kill an omnipotent immortal such as him.

“We won’t know unless we give it a try.” She had signed, drawing Koever’s attention just then, and then smiled at him encouragingly, with that absolute ray of faith (hope) registering in her bright eyes. Tekuob had quickly followed it with a question: “But would it hurt too much?”

He let out a sound that sounded like a surprise chuckle. And then shook his head; his meaning was clear, not at all.

“Let’s do it now then… why delay it.”  

Koever gazed at her admiringly. She was so brave, so wonderful …. Then reached over to gently take her hand and turned it over. But again, he hesitated, then looked at her questioningly, “Are you certain? You do not want to think it over… A day or two perhaps?” He gestured.

Understanding his meaning, she firmly nodded, “Yes, I’ m sure; let us do it now, before I lose my nerve.” And held out her open palm.

Koever, using his baby finger’s talon (long claw, fingernail), which was sharp as any blade, gently pricked the skin of her palm, just a tiny cut; subsequently, he bit the tip (flesh) of his thumb, and from it an extracted (obtained) single drop of blood was then allowed to fall onto her tiny cut (laceration) which instantly was absorbed. His tongue carrying his saliva lightly brushed over the cut and instantly sealed it. He exhaled a breath and stepped back. He had never done this before; he was as much in the dark about the outcome as she.

There was an instant sensation of searing heat which coursed through Tekuob’s veins and soon engulfed her entire body. Her cheeks flushed red and for a second or so, she felt the overwhelming intense fever that reach every molecule in her body and same time dizzied her. She swayed a little but fought to check the horrible pain and the feeling of vertigo; nevertheless, her head swam (something fierce), she saw swirling stars Infront of her eyes, desisted the strong urge to vomit (retch, puke) and then her eyelids dropped and she closed her eyes tight. All this had happened within a millisecond, though it had felt like hours to her.

But then just as quickly the sensations receded and for a second or two, she became ice cold. She shivered uncontrollably at which point concern overriding propriety, Koever had moved forward to engulf her in his massive arms and body. He pressed her to his bosom and held her there tightly. They had never been this close before and if she were not so cold (frozen), she would have blushed, deeming this inappropriate. Instead, she felt comforted as though nestled in a plush blanket and her breathing eased. A brief time later, all had reverted to normal, and both sensing this, timorously (bashfully, timidly) and abruptly they pulled apart to that safe distance which they had always maintained.

Then nervously, indicating “May I?” and receiving permission (her ascending nod), Koever reached one more time to cup her tiny hand in his massive one; and for a time, he simply listened to her pulsing lifeforce… The now, virile, strong, vibrant chi.

Afterwards, Koever had happily confirmed (sensed) that all traces of the venom had entirely dissipated from her bloodstream and organs (entire body). 

“It worked!” The relief on his face was palpable; he smiled with utter delight.

Tekuob meanwhile, had never felt this good before; though nothing had changed on the outside, she still looked the same, internally she had undergone (on the cellular level) minute measure of transformation (modification, variation); and, it was enough that she now was far sturdier and healthier than she had ever been. There were also other marked advantages: Her hearing, sight, senses were so acute and miraculously, wonderous.

“You have saved my life; you are now my benefactor.” She gestured her meaning.  Unfortunately, there is a catch…” She feigned worry. “A life saved is a life owed…And so, from hereon your life might be even harder, as you now will be responsible for me.” Pursing her lips, she jested; to lighten this deeply intense moment.

      Koever could not restrain his chuckle as it had already escaped his lips; then he laughed without abandon, after which he signed: “I expected that; no good deed goes unpunished. “

They both laughed heartily after that…

 

Nor was this the only time he had saved (extended) Tekuob’s precious life. At least three other instances (this time however, keeping her ignorant of it) Koever had quietly interceded and spared Tekuob from near-miss dire harms from the recalcitrant (errant, delinquent) sentry (one in particular, one called Derrakon), an affiliate of a secret brotherhood, whose members craved power and other unsavory things, which had also the secret backing of Sthetor.

 

                                                                                           ~

 

 

(END OF SECTION 7) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 13- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR - SECTION 4

 Lord Asger was warily (cautiously) concerned by the stranger’s unstable, irresolute  conduct particularly since it became quite evident from his sheer exasperation that some mystical force had overtaken control of his physical and mental faculties (free will). Asger therefore, quietly now considered moving the stranger, soon as he’s able (and his weaken state improved) to the barn, to ensure safety of his three charges (Tequob and the twins).

 

01- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON (173) - JP

Lord Asger had not been too far off in this assumption; actually, since before the stranger’s arrival at the cabin, his mental state, more specifically his soul, had been incessantly trapped (caught) in a dire, despondent struggle (battle) for dominance with a malevolent spirit bent on utter possession of his very being.  Now in his further enfeebled (debilitating) state because of the side-effects of the medicine coursing through his veins, even with his indomitable spirit, he had struggled hard but in vain, to override the combined effects of the evil potent force and the linctus (remedy)steadily depleting his resistance. His cognizance, his grasp on reality gradually abating (diminishing), he eventually was overpowered by it and subsequently, hopelessly, succumbed (capitulated) to its abysmal (execrable) control!

Asger, despite his misgivings, for the time being pushing it aside, had indulgently smiled then placed a gentle, conciliating (mollifying) hand on the stranger’s shoulder and kindly advised him: “Do not fret or fight the effects of the drug.  You are safe; best you conserve your physical energy for now and surrender (give in) to sleep! We can address your cognitive (mental) and spiritual, difficulties later (all in good time), never fear.”

Having so persuaded the patient to again lie down, Asger was about to head out the door when the stranger just then mechanically turning his head, ejected in a gurgling sound, “I’m parched (thirsty)…. T…”  His subsequent words unfortunately were too indiscernible (Incomprehensible).

“You wish to have some Tea?” Asger (turning around) reeled in surprise to question the stranger, to reaffirm what he had thought he had heard was in fact correct. (right)

“Yes please,” the stranger nodded, “and if you’d be so kind, Lord Zhon, I would be most honored (and obliged) indeed, if your Lordship were to join me!” The stranger had appeared quite lucid just then when he had uttered those words, before lapsing again into a state of apparent confusion.

Asger again momentarily brushing aside his trepidation and inner foreboding, nodded his ascent; but before exiting the room, he discreetly retrieved the miniature flagon (flask) containing a potent sleeping potion from his medicine bag.  

At outside, he shook his head to dispel his dark thoughts, knowing he would deal with whatever may come. Judging by the extent of the stranger’s injuries, the source of them, some not being elusive at all, Asger could accurately determine his past terrible ordeals, which offered at least in part, an explanation for the stranger’s deranged state of mind. The sword, meanwhile, was meant to reassure Asger of his trustworthiness. The stranger obviously held in his brain (been privy to) vital information yet to be communicated, this constraining Asger hence, to be both patient (tolerant) and tactful.

One thing was for certain however, while the stranger, presumed scholar, was in that weakened state with his chaotic mind affecting hazard (menace) to self and anyone else, he had to be somehow, at some point, confined (restrained).

Asger, with such ponderance, had walked over to the hearth (fireplace)and with a small protective cloth he reached for the iron pot’s (teapot) hot handle; the pot was already filled with boiling water with steeping tea leaves within it. This brewed fresh pot of tea was then further allocated (dispensed, shared out) into two different size porcelain carafes (vessels, decanters): the large one resting on the centre of the table and then the smaller pot alongside the three empty cups already positioned on the silver tray. Asger added the wooden spoons next to each of the three bowls filled to the brim with steaming porridge and then quickly took all of it straight into Tekuob’s room. As she and the children were still sounding asleep, not daring to disturb them, he quietly placed the tray on the night table and exited the serene premises by gently closing the door behind him.

 

02- THE SCHOLAR STRANGER - JP

He was surprised (shocked) to find the outlandish scholar this time seated at the table in the main hall, with no signs of past ordeal (no visible lacerations or bruises on face or body, hair perfectly combed, waring a different and spotless attire), brazenly having already helped himself to a cup of tea, from the larger pot on the table. The flask containing the sleeping potion, clearly untampered, in plain sight rested on the same table.

 

The scholar, furthermore, having quite unabashedly helped himself to an ancient manuscript and, appearing very much at home, was presently pouring over the segment of the scroll.  Asger’s prized possession sprawled all over the kitchen table lay dangerously close to the hot carafes and the clay jug that was filled to the brim with honey.  

Asger, naturally was taken back, nevertheless masking his unease he politely inquired: “Your astounding recovery afforded me some ease (comfort); however, you have me at a disadvantage sir, may I now know your name?”

 

The scholar with an unhurried manner rose to his feet, and then reverently prostrated himself before Lord Zhon.  His subsequent apologies quickly dispensed with; he formally introduced himself as the noted Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald.  He followed it with his deep appreciation for the care he had received from Lord Asger Zhon, giving Asger full credit for his miraculous recovery. His subsequent brief account of his background (credentials) dispensed with; he was about to mention Nevetsecnuac when on second thought, he curtailed his tongue. He remained silent for a time, as though he was lost for words.  

 

Asger feigned being satisfied, signaled for scholar to take a seat and then with certain decorum (composure) sat down across from Fradel. Before he could question Fradel on how he came by Lord Zhon’s ancestor sword, or more importantly, about the wellbeing of Nevetsecnuac, right at this point Fradel interrupting him, sprung to his feet.

 

After Fradel’s exaggerated, respectful bow, and words, “Please forgive my presumption, Lord Zhon.” He quickly rolled up the rare manuscript and, going over, placed it back on the top shelf of the bookcase that was by the far wall. On his return, grimacing sheepishly then wryly, his eyes briefly had stayed at Tekoub’s door, then swept over the flask, before apologetically sitting down and then, helping himself to yet another cupful of steaming tea.

Asger, though he did not show it, was infuriated with himself for not detecting the underlying thread and letting in this danger inside; now he would have to exert (labour)much harder feat (act) to fix (resolve) this breach and prevent the anticipated sure peril. The fact that the Scholar Fradel had bypassed the security and the spun spell that had guarded the premise from malevolent forces up till then, had secretly both alarmed and confounded (perplexed) Asger; meanwhile, overlooking Fradel’s purposely diverting, brazen audacity and seemingly inane erratic conduct, Asger had striven all this while to determine, without much success, the scholar’s perceived, hidden agenda.

 

03- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON   (90)JP

 

Fradel Rurik Korvald, after pensively consuming several sips of tea from his cup, raised his head only once, to address Asger with forced polite demeanor and to express his appreciation: “I must compliment you sir, on the excellent infusion!”

 It is the best I have had in a while. This rare brew is reserved for the exclusive use of Royalty; it must be imported from Kontu at exorbitant expense and trouble. The Scholar nevertheless masking these thoughts stole a quick glance at his host and then turned his attention back on the superb landscape scroll mounted at the far wall. An ancient masterpiece adorns his walls, as well; rare manuscripts, and this most exquisite tea, you lack nothing, do you? Fradel snorted; his head lowered.

 

The uneasy curtain of silence meanwhile had descended on them both for about three minutes as each had considered their subsequent moves. The tense atmosphere within was further compounded by the thrashing winds and pelting rain outside, as it drummed impatiently, incessantly on the cabin walls and on the roof.

 

Thankfully, Tekuob and the twins were still fast asleep. If only he had paid heed to Fiery Comet’s warning and to his innate intuition! What a complacent fool he had been!

Asger knew however that he had precious few minutes before he could swiftly and decisively affect (shape, modify) his plan to check this present, dire danger (circumstance). In his ponderance, Asger had distractedly poured himself a steaming cup of tea and then raised it to his lips.  

Oh no! He had detected the odd odor too late, after he had absentmindedly swallowed a mouthful and put the cup down. Throwing an angry, cursory glance at Fradel, Asger bolted from his seat just as the effects of poison were taking root and hastened to his room to validate his suspicion. He at once reached for his medicine bag and, retrieving it, he was about to rummage through the contents quickly when…

 

“You are looking for these?”  Fradel Rurik Korvald just then appeared at the door, hissed in a sinister voice as he held out the two slightly different dark grey miniature flasks for Asger to see. The darker grey flask contained the dreaded poison; the lighter shade one held the rare antidote for it.

“How…Why?” Was all that Asger (could manage) managed to eject (cry out) before the anticipated paralysis of the body set in. He remained, hence, as he was, speechless, unable to move a single muscle. In his catatonic state, because his cognitive function, the only one, had remained unaffected (not hindered or debilitated); his eyes showed the anxiety and rage that had swelled up from deep within him.

The scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald meanwhile smiling smugly, had closed the door behind him, then going over. He comfortably seated himself in the chair.

“How indeed!” He shrugged. Then suddenly his face turned hard, and with a venomous, contemptuous glare, he gritted his teeth. “I laced (tainted, spiked) the inside bottom of your empty cup with the poison, a single drop that was all it was needed; the potful of tea was quite safe.” He grinned maliciously.

 

04- SCHOLAR FRADEL  JP 5

Now in answer to your second query, “Why?”  He derisively ejected and then huffed. “I should be asking you that very same question! Why? Why have you betrayed me? For what? Duty? Misplaced loyalty? Honor? For that Princeling?” he growled.

“Have you any idea what you put me through my whole life?” Fradel’s voice now thundered with rage; that could not be assuaged.

“God damn you!” He hurled the poison flask smashing it to Smithereens on the floor, as the same time bolted from his seat. Going over next Fradel uncorked the lighter shade flask containing the antidote and, with a venomous sneer, he deliberately emptied the entire contents onto the floor. He coolly (coldheartedly) watched as the parched wooden planks thirstily absorbed (lapped it up) the last drop of hope and salvation for Asger.

“All gone!”  The incredulous tone of the contemptuous Fradel, infuriated Asger.

His defiant, threatening glare (eyes) however, further unleashed the scholar’s pent-up rage; Fradel squatting, his scowling face inches from Asger’s, he hissed venomously then hit him hard right across, with the back of his hand, bloodying Asger’s nose.  

 

 “I alone have the right to indignation, not you!”  Fradel barked.

 

The subsequent blows of his fist to Asger’s face turned Asger’s swollen face range of deep purple; there was such terrible ringing in his ears now, his head swam and, from the cuts and lacerations in face, as well the split lip, copious blood oozed onto his chin and neck then down.

 

The brutal pressure of Fradel’s knee crushing (pressing) down on his chest meanwhile, had constrained Asger’s lungs in his bruised chest cavity, and he had labored for that precious intake of (breath) air! Ruthlessly constrained from retaliating, Asger became even more fearful for the welfare of Tekuob and the children.

This deranged lunatic; this vile, raving brute had to be stopped at all costs before he affected (brought) serious harm to them!  But how?

Asger indifferent to hurled insults and inflicted pain, had wracked his brain for an apt solution; however, despite his strong will, he had failed (been unsuccessful) to alter his dire circumstance (predicament). All he had managed thus far to do was to move his eyelids.

But Asger was not one to give up so easily; closing his eyes and according to ancient principles mastering his circumstance hence, he summoned his vital energy source from deep within him. Before he could utilize (direct) it, however, “Snap out of it!” A vicious kick followed by a sharp, searing pain across his chest just then, interrupted Asger’s revival and fitting retaliation.

The villainous Scholar, meanwhile, on second thought, had restrained (constrained) his urge to break every bone in Asger’s ribcage. Then his sinister gaze for a second fell on the Asger’s ancestral sword that had not yet been put away.  

 

“Patience!” Fradel pursing his lips, sneered. This singular pleasure will have to wait, as he needed this dastardly fiend alive for now!  

 

“Oh, but in the meantime, I shall enjoy tormenting your sanctimonious mind, and later, ….!” Chewing on the last set of words, he rancorously promised. “Shame will eat you up alive as you perish by slow degrees!”

 

Fradel’s subsequent sinister laughter made the hairs on the back of Asger’s neck stand on end and rage swelled within him anew. Nevertheless, Asger with a blank stare, turned his attention inward once more and focused on purging his heart (soul) of all human sentiment. Afterwards, to gain time, he would direct his will to slow down the effects of poison coursing through his vitals.

 

“Look at me!”  Fradel Rurik Korvald’s bark, however, once again interrupted Asger’s concentration. Fradel subsequently pressed his seething face right into Lord Asger Zhon’s and demanded (commanded), “I said, look at me! You cannot deny my existence any longer, maggot! I am here to make you answer for your crimes!”

 

 

 

  (END OF SECTION 4)

 

 

 

                                                                                            ~

 

 13- LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE UNEXPECTED VISITOR - SECTION 3

Back at the wooden Cabin, life had gone on as before, with few exceptions and minor adjustments. Now, since the day of Tekuob’s outcry, (the day of Nevetsecnuac’s near death experience because of the poisoning) she had been ailing in health but in her stubbornness, she had refused all Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon’s sensible entreaties to take it easy.

 

01- TEKUOB AND THE TWINS - jp

Compounding the difficulty, the summer months in these high altitudes came to a much swifter end, and the harsher climate indigenous to this mountain expectantly brought along with-it perilous conditions and untold dangers!

Having reckoned with three calamitous events already, the wary inhabitants of the cabin had barely time to rest when fresh disaster struck them: in this case unfortunately, the victim being Tekuob, and the culprit, none other than a large venomous Dakoe viper, the most dreaded kind of all!

This Dakoe viper long since thought extinct, seeking shelter from the harsh elements had seen fit to make his home in the large wooden barrel vat that contained a safe (eatable) variety of dried mushrooms and complimentary greens. This and other such reserves (such as berries, eatable roots, dried vegetables, dried mint, spices, grain, fodder etc.), were usually stored in clay (earthen) bins or wooden barrels alongside stacks of firewood for the use in winter months, at the northern sector of the stables.

Tekuob, in the course of her duties (daily chores) had encountered and unfortunately then been bitten by this deadly asp (Dakoa), had therefore nearly perished.

By providence (chance) Asger being at proximity and therefore responding to her sharp outcry swiftly, he had promptly terminated the culprit, as well, timely extracted the poison from her arm. As it was, the identification of the viper had been the key component (essential factor) in her effective treatment and ultimate survival. A second strike from such a viper would have brought about her instantaneous demise. No amount of effort would then have delivered her from the jaws of death.

 

01- TEKUOB AND THE TWINS - jp

Even so, despite Asger’s untiring and competent care, she had remained in a comatose state for a week; her internal organs all the while undergoing one crisis after another, this being the resulting consequence, the painfully nasty side effects of this venom! With sudden reversals in her condition her erratic palpitations of heart, her battered, bruised and swollen body, unexpected elevations (rises) and drops in body’s temperature, discoloration of skin tone, all-in-all her deteriorating condition, despite the rendition of five potent (effective) treatments, had given Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon more than once a serious fright.

Lord Asger also knew that in all the documented medical cases (in medical journals), few if any, had ever recovered fully from the effects of this dreaded viper’s venom; and the few that had survived for a time, had eventually been driven insane by the future resurgent, hazarding ramifications. With this inevitability weighing heavily on Asger’s mind, he had nevertheless concentrated on the present situation at hand and, with vigilant care did all humanly possible and more, to deliver Tekuob from the imminent danger and to prolong her life.

 

Eventually, by degrees, after weeks of meticulous tending, she had beaten the worst odds and regained the use of her limbs and the full faculty of her senses. Once the destructive cycle had been averted (forestalled), her body had to still overcome the complications, the expected side-effects from the ingested, and (in its own right) highly toxic, antidote. With slow, painful road to recovery well under way, Teukuob, though still indisposed, last few days had even begun showing gradual but definite signs of improvement in her overall condition.

Lord Asger, shouldering the full burden of worry, kept her ominous future-health- prognosis - that at any time and without probable cause she could suffer a relapse resulting in her painful end- from Tekuob, so as not to impede (encumber) her recovery.

  

                                                                             ~

  

Now at about this juncture in time, Fiery Comet’s sudden arrival at nightfall in a stormy weather without a rider, compounded Lord Asger’s trepidation; he had secretly anticipated in absence of any news from Nevetsecnuac this dreaded outcome for some time now and, Fiery Comet’s present disheveled (shabby, scruffy) condition confirmed some of his worst fears!

 

03- LORD ASGER MARROG ZHON (154)  JP

Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon, not wishing to hamper Tekuob’s fragile convalescence, decidedly, for the time being at least, strove to keep this bad portent, from her. He swiftly confined the horse to the stable and fed him fodder; then later that night, as soon as he could get away, he tended to the mount’s other needs, such as cleaning him (wiping the sweat off his body) and tending to his multitude of cuts, bruises, and wounds.

Asger’s efforts bearing fruit, in no time at all Fiery Comet’s wellbeing, at least in part, was restored; only, his indomitable spirit lacked the usual fiery zeal, for he had sensed and shared the depth and breadth of Lord Asger’s silent inconsolable grief and inwardly shed tears!

Also understanding Lord Asger’s desire for secrecy, in ready compliance, he kept the noise level down to a minimum (like his neighing or stomping) even those times when he was let outside to roam free in the dense forest.

  

                                                                                      ~

  

For five days now, continuous strong gale winds and pelting rain have wreaked havoc at everything outside. The cabin’s sturdy walls and roof, though withstanding the enormous, environmental pressures had, nevertheless, incessantly shook from the violent outbursts and relentless assaults from beasts and nature. But regardless of prevalent danger Asger had always perfunctorily risen just before dawn each and every day, as he’d done for over two decades, to tend to morning chores- in this case, caring for Fiery Comet, investigating and securing the perimeter before he washed up and returned back to the cabin with an adequate supply (stack) of firewood and bucket of water.

Subsequently, Lord Asger Zhon had been busy kindling the embers in the fireplace when, despite the deafening noise outside, his keen ears picked up (detected) Fiery Comet’s alarm-raising (alarming) whinnies and urgent stomping in the stable.

 

04- LORD ASGER THUXUR MARROG ZHON (150) JP

 

“What now?” Asger’s brows knitted in deep concern.

 

Expecting a likely breach (intrusion) into the stable from a carnivorous beast, a desperate foraging animal or a fowl in search of food and warmth, Lord Asger rose to his feet and after making certain that neither Tekuob nor the children were awakened, or in any way disturbed by all that commotion outside, as Tekuob was still convalescing, he opened the door to, in due haste rush outside.

He barely missed running into a disarrayed stranger brandishing none other than Asger’s own ancestral sword, the very one he had entrusted to Prince Nevetsecnuac. Before Asger’s accost (inquiry)however, the stranger with a disheveled hair, who was clad in torn and bloody garments, his face and body bearing numerous lacerations, cuts and bruises, with eyes glazed, head swooning, had suddenly dropped the sword and was about to collapse backward when, Lord Asger agilely grabbed hold of both the sword and the stranger spontaneously, before both had had a chance to hit the ground. (No small feat, as Asger had only one arm!)  

The stranger in the grip of a terrible fever, in his semi-conscious state mumbling deliriously, was at once hauled over the shoulder and quickly (got) carried into Asger’s room. Gently placed onto the bed, Asger proceeded with his quick diagnosis of the stranger’s condition; determining (seeing) that his state was not lethal, Asger armed with a staff departed the room in haste to resolve the other, more pressing concern (issue). When his subsequent brief investigation in the barn (woodshed) assured Asger that Fiery Comet was in no real danger, he laid aside his bamboo stick and stroked the steed mane to help calm him down. He next provided the steed with a bucket of water and silage (fodder, hay). As the stallion (horse) was still on edge, Asger tried talking to him to quiet him down. “Now, now… it is all right boy, patience I know, has never been one of your strong points but the storm will soon abate, and you can roam free at outside for as long as you wish. As for the stranger, frankly, in his condition he poses no threat to anyone! And besides, Nevetsecnuac would not have entrusted the sword to a foe. This is the most encouraging sign we have had in a long time. In any case, he obviously brings word from Nevetsecnuac.” Asger had mumbled this last part more for his benefit; he needed to hang on to that slightest of hope.

 

05- FIERY COMET IN BARNJP

Asger’s placating words having finally the desired effect, the mount’s persistent irritation, his repeated stomping, and neighing slowed, then altogether ceased.  “Good boy,” Asger presently rewarded the steed with four crab apples (wild apples). He then picked up the freshly filled bucket of water and headed towards the barn door.

“I must be off now, I will tend to your other needs soon after I have checked on the stranger, all right? Now behave yourself, lest you wake up Tekuob and the children!” Asger half-turned his head, just as he headed out the stable door, part serious and part jesting, admonished Fiery Comet.

Bracing against the violent, thrashing (blinding) winds and hail, Asger then quickly retraced his steps back to the cabin and seeing that all was quiet inside, proceeded to nurse the stranger back to health: In swift succession all his wounds were cleaned; deep lacerations properly tended to and bandaged; his garments were changed (into) with more appropriate ones and the old wear put aside to be later mended and cleaned. The stranger’s unconscious state had made it easier for Asger to complete these tasks swiftly; since the patient’s pulse and his vitals were quite steady and almost normal, Asger applied another cold compress over his’s slightly feverish forehead and administered to him orally the right dose of medicine, one that would help speed his recovery (healing process) and restore him to good health. Asger, having done all that he could, he left the patient snuggled in the safety of a warm quilt to sleep it off, as it would be the natural side-effect of the administered potion, and then, quietly exited the room to see his other responsibilities. Fortunately, there were still two more hours before daybreak and before Tekuob and the children awoke.

In keeping with his word, Asger went back to the barn (outbuilding, shed) to tend to Fiery Comet’s further needs; afterwards, he fetched more firewood and water and then returned to the main cabin. Preparations for breakfast were well under way (completed), feeling ill-at ease about the stranger’s (precarious) condition. He momentarily peered into the room to check in on the patient’s expected progress. When he did, the most unexpected sight greeted Asger!

 

06- THE STRANGER  - JP (1 (3)

The stranger far from sleeping it off soundly, his face free from prior lacerations and bruises and showing no signs at all of his past ordeals, was sitting bolt upright on the bed, though in a dazed state; subsequently, he lowered his gaze and then remained perfectly still!

“Remarkable,” Asger murmured, approaching the bedside. He knew that the patient should have been dead to the world for at least six more hours; for it was physically impossible for a mortal being, however, strong in stamina, to override the potent effects of the drug he had administered to him. Stroking his beard he, moreover, pondered for a moment on the stranger’s extraordinary appearance. Unless? The answers quickly came to mind. Right, he had this medicine in his possession for at least fifteen years. Though adequately stored, it still could have lost some measure of its potency (expired); meanwhile, he had quickly dismissed the other, viable, negative thought that had also crept into his mind.

As the patient did not respond to his general, polite inquiries, Asger apathetically (indifferently) picked up the cold compass lying on the floor and discarded it into the trash. He then reached for the patient’s wrist and listened carefully to the rhythm of his pulse. It was close enough to normal; the few irregularities were no cause for alarm. The liver, kidney, and lungs functioned fine. As for the slight arrhythmia of the heart (irregular heartbeat pattern, palpitations), that too, was an expected consequence of the drug… Hmm, but the stranger’s skin coloration was slightly (bit) off!

Asger’s mind was preoccupied with the successive treatment he might be using to address that peculiarity, when just then the stranger’s lowered head suddenly jerked up. His keen, probing (inquisitive, quizzical), cold eyes for a solid minute (burrowing into) were affixed on Asger; then, he scathingly (derisively) snorted and looked away. In that moment he had appeared surprisingly alert and in full command of his faculties. But when he was accosted (questioned) by Asger and he was about to respond, abruptly just then a dark curtain, a visible shadow swept across his face. His eyes dimmed, his contrite (penitent), noble and principled expression in face transforming, for a fleeting moment it became hard, vein, contemptuous, vile and seething; subsequently, his burrowing gaze softened and then shifted to that of a dumbfounded and blank (void, empty) stare!

Before Asger could positively determine the cause of stranger’s vacillating disposition

(erratic mood swings), his expression had yet again altered, this time to sheer exasperation- as if a mystically enforced catatonic disorder overriding his will, had again held him in its mercy. Try as he might, his jaws being locked as if in a vice-grip despite his intense desire at the core of his being to reply, thwarted him nevertheless from responding to any of Asger’s concerned enquiries (probes). Asger had moreover discerned those tearing pupils, the desperate cry of alarm, a heed of warning!

 

 

(END OF SECTION 3)                                                                                           ~

 

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