LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE CAPITAL CHANNING - SECTION 2

 Zunrogo having successfully fulfilled his orders (delivering Fradel Rurik Korvald in safety to Channing), the group promptly next (without further due) reached the posh (grand) private residence of the Minister of Ceremony, Zaur Stugr.  From this point onward Fradel Rurik Korvald’s (Nevetsecnuac's) safety and welfare would be the responsibility of this diligent bureaucrat (official). 

The extra measure of caution along the way may, or may not have been warranted, for few would be so bold, some would say suicidal, to make a move against the illustrious scholar in the very Capital where security had always been tighter than a drum. 

Arriving at dusk, Zunrogo’s company found the good minister eagerly awaiting their arrival, having already been informed of their passage through Zier gate.  Zunrogo Tugo was then constrained to account for the slight delay.

01- ZUNROGO TUGO- JP  15

Zunrogo being most eager to depart, stating that he had other most urgent business to attend to before the curfew fell, soon as he entrusted the good minister Fradel’s papers, he bid his pseudo fond farewells to the Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) and the Minister Zaur Stugr, then both Zunrogo Tugo and Tizan mounting their steeds, left the official's residence. 

After polite felicitations and other formalities quickly dispensed with, Minister of Ceremony, Zaur Stugr then cordially (affably) escorted (ushered, accompanied) Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) to his luxurious private quarters without further due.  The Illustrious Fradel’s posh residence (accommodation) had been meticulously furnished with all the anticipated amenities, rare antiques, and exquisite fine art objects that a scholar with discriminating taste might require, to be most comfortably settled in. Ten servants, comprising (encompassing) both genders, were appointed to see to his every need or whim.  Following a luxurious bath, toiletries, and a brief rest, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) was then escorted to a large dining hall where, during an exclusive (private) banquet, he was discerningly entertained, offered selective, most discriminating light refreshment, exotic range of delicacies (tidbits) and finally, the most elaborate cuisines.

 At the conclusion of the repast (feast), since Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) did not looked wearied, and particularly did not express any desire to retire; at the suggestion of Zaur Stugr, both men then proceeded through the locked gate, to enter Zaur’s much coveted but rarely shared, private garden, their steps advancing informally (calmly) then, towards the legendary Whispering Willows Pavilion.

Zaur Stugr despite being rather young for a minister, as he was in his late twenties, nevertheless carried a, dignified, resilient (robust, buoyant, spirited) though seemingly understated, yet formidable air of authority; this very much intrigued Nevetsecnuac, impelling (driving, propelling) him, hence, to learn more of this enigmatic minister. Unfortunately for Nevetsecuac, the minster guarded his secrets too well, and since it was fated, both sides remained in the dark of each’s true identity, till it was too late.

02-ZAUR STUGR   JP 27

 In that most tranquil and exquisite setting, as they informally strolled through the winding paths of the picturesque garden, they spoke sparingly, from time to time, stopping briefly, only to lend an ear to the distant, well-orchestrated, lugubrious melodies of nature.  At the exquisite Whispering Willows Pavilion, they then partook in some rare, specialty foreign brew (environment); subsequently, spirits mellowed, they then indulged in the most delightful, lighthearted, and seemingly unreserved conversation. Minister Zaur Stugr, though a most attentive host all during the night, had (actually) nonetheless remained guarded in his speech and manner, being always tentatively (cautiously) prudent, not to let their seemingly candid exchange trespass onto any dangerous or forbidden topics.

 As they drank well into the night, a slightly inebriated Zaur Stugr dropped his guard just a fraction.  Seizing this opportunity, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), with certain tact and decorum, discreetly broached the subjects that had been preying on his mind ever since his arrival in Channing. 

Nevetsecnuac knew that it was imperative this one major obstacle be handled satisfactorily before his goal; fortunately, he had seen fit to procure from the real Fradel, the names of the Royal Couriers (RCRB) who had delivered him the Imperial summons.

 All Nevesecnuac needed now was to learn of the exact whereabouts of Canbir Nonng and Cais Hongar so that he could, though he detested the idea, obstruct or permanently impede (hinder) any chance of them exposing him as an impostor.

Through his prior discrete inquiries, Nevetsecnuac had learned from Zunrogo that the members of Royal Couriers of the Red Bandanna (Red Bandanna’s specific subdivision, limb, branch, also known as RCRB), such as Canbir and Cais, being the quickest and most efficient, were perpetually kept on the go.  Each of these RCRB after grueling (demanding) selection process, had been chosen for their superhuman endurance and their indomitable fighting and riding prowess (skills). Once dispatched, RCRB would ride like the wind on the fastest of horses and were authorized to, if need be, fight their way through any obstructions.  There had even been instances where, high ranking officials or aristocrats, who’d caused slight delay of a RCRB, having been promptly killed without consequence (penalty). Depending on the urgency of the task, these couriers could ride unceasingly (incessantly), eating and sleeping on horseback until they reached their destination. 

During his travels, at various points along the throughfare (artery, road, freeway) Nevetsecnuac had seen the Imperial stables set up to supply these RCRB messengers with fresh horses and supplies.  Inns and provision stores (shops) had, additionally, sprung up (like wild mushrooms, as it was highly lucrative business), around these way stations.

As it were, Nevetsecnuac's luck had held; and this piece of intelligence he’d learned from Minister Zaur Stugr, that the couriers in question had already been dispatched the day before Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac’s) arrival in Capital, to relay a routine command to the Military Governor at the frontier province of Tizanakang, one of the two provinces bordering Korion.

03- FRADEL (NEVETSECNUAC)  IN CAPITAL

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), inwardly relieved, continued with their innocuous (safe, bland) exchange; until a little while later, he sought to resolve his other concern and again discretely, broached the subject of the latest assassination attempt on (reigning monarch) current Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek. Fradel, volunteering his reasons for it, briefly related part of his observations in the central square, his feelings of revulsion at the sight, and then followed it with his purposefully erroneous suppositions of the results this act portended. Apparently, there was no restriction on discussing the assassination attempt since Minister Zaur Stugr seemed most anxious to correct the esteemed Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) and, readily obliged by conveying all the pertinent officially available information on the subject.  However, he did not end it there,

"Please do not take offense, and I am supposing that your reclusive life has prevented you from being fully informed on the present state of Wenjenkun's foreign policy."

Minister of Ceremony Zaur Stugr waited for an affirming nod before proceeding to impart the major point he wished to cover.

"This most recent assassination attempt has had far more reaching political implications than would seem on the outset."  He cleared his throat with a sip of wine then extrapolated further, bringing up the subject of the military threat from an expansive foreign aggressor, Emperor Deng Hedenko of the nation of Kontu.

04- DENG HEDENKO

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) was keenly interested, for he recollected the facts he’d been told, back at the mountain abode, about Lord Hedenko, who was now the Emperor of Kontu. This vilest and most feared Lord had also the very one that Teuquob had been promised to in marriage.  Unfortunately, Hedenko’s present status revealed the sad fate that befell her family. 

Nevetsecnuac listened, with rapt attention, to Minister Zaur Stugr’s seemingly unbiased (equitable), nevertheless enthusiastic, deferential account of Lord Deng Hedenko’s exploits.

"I admit to being rather intrigued with Hedenko's extraordinary military accomplishments from very early on.  I've followed his chartered course when, even at an early age and, despite the overwhelming odds against him from birth, how with his resilience, his extraordinary, cunning intellect and incredible martial prowess, he succeeded in doing the impossible. Then again, his ruthlessness has no equal, save for…. am. Anyhow, as testament to his shrewd military and political maneuvers, he’d consolidated, in that unbelievably brief period, all those unruly, hostile kingdoms bordering his nation, under just one rule.”

“But that is too long an account to go into it now, perhaps we may revisit the topic at another more opportune time when, I can impart to you in detail, the long chronicle of his incredible achievements, for they read like a textbook of legendary military strategies."  Zaur dismissed this line of thought with a wave of his hand then returned to the most current political events.

Minister Zaur Stugr instead, told Fradel how Hedenko, still coveting more territories, had sent his invincible armada across the treacherous channel, with great army numbering in the hundreds of thousands on board, under the command of Field Marshal Yatzin Surge. Having landed quite recently infract, on the shores of the continent, Field Marshal Yatzin had already annexed the inconsequential country of Duriok.  Their real objective was, of course, to annex the neighboring state, Korion.

 "Unofficial reports had already reached His Highness Zakhertan Yozdek, that this foreign aggressor (antagonist) had wreaked havoc all along its path to the Pokesh River." Minister Zaur Stugr smiled wryly. 

"This, however, has aroused little concern in our political arena.  As to the proposed non-aggression pact between Kontu and Wenjenkun," Zaur shook his head thoughtfully, "Well, Emperor Hedenko has more than once adopted the sure strategy of allying himself with more distant states while attacking the one close at hand.  Soon, however, his allies find themselves on Kontu's border.  You can imagine the initial reluctance of our Illustrious Sovereign, despite all assurances from Hedenko."

Zaur digressed, "You must understand that our country harbors no particular affection for that den of wolves, Korion.  You see, from the time our victorious armies subjugated that country there has never been any obvious, outward signs of resistance, outbreaks of rebellion, or even any inkling of trouble brewing from that quarter and they have kept up with their yearly tribute in a timely manner.  However, they are an aggressive race and after the…" Minister Zaur Stugr stopped abruptly, dropping his head to become lost in thought.

                                                                                ~

Nevetsecnuac surmised what was on his mind, for as part of his studies he had learnt from Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon, of Wenjenkun’s long standing trouble with Korion and, the last battle, which resulted in the annexation of Korion. The old Sovereign Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir, who properly duped, sent Zakhertan, with unlimited command of the expeditionary forces, to eliminate this pesky border threat; this done, Zakhertan then had retaliated, evened some personal old scores (settle old vendettas).

Though the brutal campaign and the purge in aftermath, had transpired during Lord Asger’s youth, he’d come to know well enough from hearsay (word of mouth), all about Zakhertan’s shrewd and gory policies in that country.

 Then only a Field Marshall, Zakhertan Yozdek, (with a strong backing of his influential family, who were the real instigators for Korion’s annexation,) harbored grand ambitions which eventually came to fruition, ending the benevolent reign of Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir.

The once mighty state of Korion, which was such a bone of contention with Zakhertan Yozdek, had always been a cantankerous, troublesome territory despite its small size, as it had always been inhabited by several, warring, fierce, hostile, nomadic tribes.

But even before this, Zakhertan and his supporters had first set their sights on this mountainous region for three good reasons: one being the rich mineral resources, some already being mined, others yet to be developed; the second, the coveted stock of the finest breed of war horses known to men and third, because their weapon makers turned out supreme swords whose superb strength and cutting edge were unrivaled anywhere in the world.

 This race of people had only one known weakness to be exploited, their superstitions, which dictated nearly every aspect of their lives.  Still, despite this flaw, this proud nation had never been totally subjugated despite many large and costly campaigns mounted either by Wenjenkun or by the other neighboring states.

As for the personal grudge Zakhertan Yozdek bore for this country, well, it had festered for (nearly a decade) a very long time, before Zakhertan finally got his opportunity to act on it.

 

It had all started (happened) when Zakhertan was a young man, a minor officer attached to the staff of the incompetent General Ziek Kizer and when the General’s forces suffered a crushing, humiliating defeat at the battle of Lekoza.  Zakhertan Yozdek was taken prisoner with a handful of others whose lives were spared and enslaved thereon, doing hard labor in one of Korion mines for more than a year, until he had engineered his brilliant escape. Zakhertan never spoke of the humiliation and what type of degradation he’d been subjected to, but from that time forth, he had sworn to crush this proud nation and visit upon it the indignities he, himself, had suffered at their hands.

 His chance had finally come when, after gaining promotion to Field Marshall, the Sovereign Anguan Binchan of Korion had, through the efforts of (clandestinely provoked by) the Yozdek family, offended then Sovereign Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir.  Thus goaded, His Imperial Majesty had authorized the Field Marshall to head a force of seven hundred thousand troops into Korion to secure that border and same time, exact vengeance on the impudent Sovereign Anguan.

Engaging in a series of fierce battles with Korion's invincible army, Zakhertan Yozdek conducted a brilliant campaign that eventually gained him the advantage. 

Through his unconventional, but ingenious, ruses he had divided the Korion forces then broken through to follow the path of least resistance to the Capital City of Korion.

 After a siege of less than two months, forty-five days to be exact, the main body of Wenjenkun's army had entered the city.

Given free rein by their commander, his blood thirsty troops massacred the populous without mercy and razed many historic buildings and monuments.

                                                                                  ~

"Let us just say that they trouble me.” Zaur Stugr suddenly resumed where he had left off, breaking (ending) the long, prolonged silence.  "Fortunately, I do not stand alone in this, though you may call it just a gut feeling if you like, for I have no facts to substantiate my suspicions."

He looked straight at Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), "They're a proud nation, you know, never before subjugated by anyone despite their small size.  Their fierce loyalty to their Sovereign is commendable.  It sort of reminds me of the way…” Again, he stopped midway.

 "No matter," a wave of hand dismissed his next string of thoughts.

Zaur reached for the cup, "I hope this particular vintage from my private reserves is to your liking.  I'm certainly no connoisseur but I find the fragrance more pleasing to the senses than the commercial vintages.  It sort of overwhelms, perhaps even intoxicates one."

In truth, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) could not differentiate (distinguish) any variation between this one and the four others he had sampled on this night.  In his view they were all exceptional infusions, all smooth as honey and fragrant as orchids.  He nodded in appreciation, nonetheless.

Placing his cup down, Minister Zaur Stugr leaned back.

"A short while ago, emissaries from both Kontu and Korion paid their respects at the Imperial Court.  You may well imagine what Korion wanted."  Zaur Stugr shook his head.

 

 "Claiming now that they were a protectorate state, they argued that whatever threatened them also threatened Wenjenkun and that it would be in our best interests to provide them with the necessary armament and manpower for them to defend their borders against the foreign aggressor; then came the turning point.  Kontu's emissaries arrived bearing rare, exquisite gifts and their terms were rather reasonable; the non-aggression pact I told you of earlier.  Their assurances appeared to be quite sincere and many of the members of the Advisory Council were swayed to accept their terms.” Minister Zaur grimaced (made a face).

 

“Anyhow, with these Advisory Council members’ full backing, the Kontu delegation submitted to His Royal Highness Zakhertan Yozdek a sealed document originating directly from Emperor Deng Hedenko himself, written, they say, by his own hand.

I have it, good authority that, within its content, Hedenko had also promised a long-term trade and affiliation and gave his personal assurance that there would be no further hostility (aggression) between the two Kingdoms.  Hedenko swore that Kontu's aim all along had been merely to gain a small foothold on the continent to develop the long neglected and mutually beneficial trade between Wenjenkun and them.”

Minister Zaur nodded absently.

“Furthermore, in return for their exercising control over Korion, they would maintain that country as an independent vassal state of Wenjenkun and would double the yearly tribute paid to Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek’s court. The shrewdest of the Advisory Council advanced their favorable disposition towards the offer, promoting Kontu's move as a way to save Wenjenkun the expense of maintaining an occupying force in a troublesome region (area) as well as reap more benefit from that expendable nation."

Minister Zaur Stugr again nodded, this time more animatedly, as clearly, he was enjoying Fradel’s rapt (engrossed, gripped) attention. 

"All the while, it now appears, a vile conspiracy to completely incapacitate our state was in the works.  Yes, who could have expected it?  The emissaries were most cunningly convincing after all.  Well, after reviewing all that was at stake and weighing the anticipated gains and probability (prospect) of losses, it appeared that Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek was on the verge of inclining towards Kontu's proposal when, fortunately for Wenjenkun, a highly regarded seer and diviner, Dwengzur, made a timely intervention and warned our Sovereign to stay the negotiations.  It is my understanding that the seer Dwengzur had also predicted the exact place and timing to the hour of the assassination attempt.”

 

06 -DWENGZUR

 

“Anyhow, it was a great surprise to those senior members of the Advisory Council, and of great interest to us all when it was found that the conspirators were none other than the emissaries from Kontu.  Oh, the corpse's condition was far beyond any positive recognition by the time Dwengzur had finished.  There were reports from the palace that night of the most fearful noises and smoke coming from His Highness' private bedroom.  Dwengzur is known to be able to command great power, and I would hate to be the foe he turns against."

Minister Zaur Stugr waved his hand to forestall Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac’s) questioning glance, "No, there were no eyewitnesses save, perhaps, for His Highness himself.  As I understand it, the bodyguards stationed outside were locked out at the crucial moments and were unable to afford any assistance.  Whether this was by accident or by design, it can only be illuminated by Dwengzur himself.

“Unfortunately, he mysteriously vanished immediately after the combat, and no one has seen or heard from him since.  Indeed, it was most strange.  The guards outside the Imperial Staterooms saw him turn the corner of the hall as he walked away, but the guards at the next corridor never saw him come round that corner at all.  Pouf, he vanished into thin air!" Minister Zaur Stugr smiled as he drew a dust-devil in the air beside his ear.

"Now the rumor is circulating that Dwengzur was a Heavenly Sage sent to assist Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek. His Highness may allow the unthinking populace to, from time to time, indulge in such superstitions, but we are men, not fools. Now I don't need to tell you how much irritation Dwengzur's disappearance has caused.  I'm afraid I can't go into how the assassin penetrated the Imperial chambers.  If it was known the answer would probably be kept secure anyway, but the truth of the matter is that only Dwengzur knows for sure.  Already many have paid dearly for the lapse in security.” Minister Zaur paused at this point to take a sip of wine, to relieve his parched throat.

 

"After that decisive combat the actual corpse of the assassin was discovered to be in pretty much the same horrendous condition as you, yourself, saw it when you passed through the central square.  Though the body was disfigured beyond recognition, there was enough evidence on what was left of the clothing and jewelry to positively identify the corpse as that of one of the emissaries from Kontu.  Oddly enough, it was the most suave and persuasive one at that.  He'd had us all completely beguiled by his distinguished, regal bearing and his seeming sincerity.  Based on this proof the remainder of the conspirators were promptly arrested and interrogated at length.  Under extreme, but necessary torture their sinister plot was disclosed in its ingenious entirety and the confessions that were extracted by Egil Viggoaries himself were promptly brought to Court for His Highness' perusal.” Minister Zaur Stugr was highly pleased, observing Fradel Rurik Korvald’s spellbound (enthralled) demeanor; this encouraged him to further embellish facts.

 

"What fate befell them, you may ask? “He took in a long, extended breath and exhaled it slowly, (drawing out) prolonging the suspenseful air.

 “Well, considering that theirs was the greatest crime that could be committed against our state, His Highness was most lenient, though still swift, and effective, in his response.  Charged with spying and attempted regicide, they were slowly dismembered.  The torn pieces of proposed treaty jabbed in the mouth between the teeth of each decapitated heads and the sliced body parts were all then stuffed in bags along with some dog excrement and promptly returned to Emperor Deng Hedenko.  You might well say it is all thanks to the inscrutable Dwengzu that their villainous plan (goal), of removing the only real obstacle to their subjugating Wenjenkun, His Royal Highness Zakhertan Yozdek, was timely intercepted (stopped). Now our two countries are in a state of war and Korion, however undeserving, has gotten the authorization for the armament and military manpower they had requested.  One can only hope that the Korianese use them in the manner intended and that we don't live to regret this decision."

"Even if I fail, I shall not fail." Once more Zonar's uncanny prediction (words) promptly intruded into Nevetsecnuac's (Fradel’s) thoughts; Nevetsecnuac was distracted from pursuing that thought to its conclusion however, by what Minister Zaur had said next.  His uncanny farsightedness, on the sly alarmed Nevetsecnuac; but to his relief, Minister Zaur Stugr summarily abandoned the hypothesis.

  

(END OF SECTION 2) 

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITAL - SECTION 21

 When dawn broke Zunrogo promptly knocked at Fradel Rurik Korvald's door.

Permission granted, he entered with a smile on his lips, carrying a bundle in his hand, trailed by the servant boy, burdened with a generous array of breakfast victuals on a tray.

Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald had just finished his packing, having risen early in anticipation of this meeting.

01- ZUNROGO TUGO JP 4

After an exchange of polite greetings, "I took the liberty of ordering you a wholesome breakfast with local cuisine." Zunrogo grimaced, signaling the boy to put the tray on the table and to leave the room at once.

As soon as the door was closed behind him, Zunrogo advanced on Fradel and courteously presented him with the bundle, urging him to try it on.

"I thank you for your thoughtful gift but since I am already dressed…" Fradel could not resist teasing him.

Zunrogo abruptly halted his ready rebuke (and the persuasive argument on his tongue) when he noted the slight glint (twinkle) in Fradel's eyes and understood his jest.  Smiling, he evenly informed Fradel that his account had been settled in full and that, as soon as he was ready, they would depart.

Then, officiously declaring that he still needed to see some last-minute details, he headed out the door before Fradel could thank him for his troubles.

Back in his room, Zunrogo expediently wrapped up all the loose ends. The Innkeeper Kjeld Rosko, having received assurances from the captain himself that his captive family, including his adored infant son, would all be released the moment after their departure, nodded his head in gratitude and then contentedly left the room.

As Kjeld headed down the long hallway, however, a sudden concern clouded his face and he, abruptly for a spell, stayed his step; slight trepidation, almost a glint of fear, fleetingly registering in his pupils as he with lowered head deliberated on the Kozur’s viable rescue plan. “The captain, now there's someone to be reckoned with!”  Kjeld, nevertheless, could not hold back a shiver.

This business of the guard Tizan, however, staying behind to ensure that there was no disruption or deception, seemed reasonable yet; it still put Kjeld Rosko a bit on his unease. With each step, a kind of needling feeling that he could not rightly put a finger on, etched a deeper frown on Kjeld’s face.

“It nearly killed me to be so reticent (taciturn, aloof, quiet); but at least my disguise was effective. And when have the Kozurs ever failed me, or anyone? Now, stop all your needless worrying!” Kjeld admonished self.  Besides, he was certain they wouldn't dare try anything too drastic with Magistrate Liros there; but more importantly, fortuitously, he had the backing of Kozurs.

Kjeld’s fears, bit more assuaged (eased, lessened), he rushed his steps to meet the affiliate agent and possibly receive (acquiring) the long awaited, anticipated, good news, news that his family was safe and away from the perilous predicament. He would be joining them when this whole business was satisfactorily dealt with. Meanwhile, with the captain and his other brutes gone, this Tizan thug, then, could aptly be handled (properly deceived, duped) by the Kozurs. 

02- KJELD ROSKO WAITS FOR THE KOZUR AGENT

Having received secret notification, that the clandestine meeting would instead, take place in the (crypt) cellar, a covert room accessed only by a trap door well concealed behind the stacks of forte (specialty) wine barrels, Kjeld headed straight down there. As Kjeld in partial darkness waited for the agent to show up, seated at the table, his fingers nervously tapping the table, his wild imagination meanwhile carefully enumerated the last week’s odd events. Unbidden, one unsubstantiated fact suddenly snuck (stole) to mind and so, the worry lines once more got etched in his brow (forehead); nevertheless, he strove to ease his fears: “Besides, haven't I dealt with far worse situations and came out of it sailing?  In this line of business, it’s to be expected.  I just hope Leon makes good time, for then…” Kjeld looked at the door, nervous but still satisfied. “Yes, then I can still expect to be amply, if not well compensated for all my troubles and inconvenience. Pity, though, this place would be so destroyed!”

                                                                                 ~

Zunrogo was fastening his jeweled broadsword onto his waist when Tizan suddenly appeared at the door.  He beckoned the guard and signaled him to close the door.

 "Well, is everything all set?"

"Yes sir.  I'll be joining you on the road after the successful conclusion of my task."

"It is imperative that those in question be eliminated without a trace.  None are to survive, understand?"

"You needn’t warn me of its importance, sir." Tizan responded without a shred of conscience.  "Please go with an easy mind.  It (sudden explosion resulting in fire) will be made to look like an accident, warranting no investigation at all.  However, if you wish, I could plant certain incriminating evidence to involve…”

"No, that will not be necessary." The captain cut him off.  "Don't deviate from the original plan."

                                                                                   ~

After breakfasting and having sent his luggage on ahead, Nevetsecnuac (Fradel), now disguised as one of the palace guards, retrieved the papers from their hiding place and secured them in the inner pocket of his garb (uniform) that were, in fact, more comfortable and more suitable for traveling than his cumbersome, restrictive scholar's attire.

After a cursory look around to see to it that nothing was left behind, he closed the door quietly behind him and quickly descended the stairs.  Meeting the Captain in the lobby ready and waiting, he was then (shepherded) lead to the outside where men and horses awaited in readiness of the departure.

03- NEVETSECNUAC IN IMPERIAL UNIFORM

Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) had been forewarned to a certain degree that there would be two guards flanking him, along on the journey, with another to be joining them later, but these two who came to smart attention were not what he had expected.  One he had never seen before and the other.  His eyes rested on the figure of Briac, who had been disguised to look like scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald.

 "I went along with your suggestion of wearing these clothes, sir, but this, this is intolerable!" Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) burrowed his cold gaze on the captain, not flinching.

This unexpected, irate, moral indignation from the supercilious scholar put Zunrogo (for a spell,) at a complete loss for words.

As Captain of the Palace Guards, the most elite force in Channing, and the secret member of the ruthless Black Band Guard, which was Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek’s personal militia, Zunrogo was the fourth most feared, most powerful, invincible warrior/statesman in Wenjenkun; right after Sovereign, the Minister of Internal Security Egil Vigoaries and The Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren.  No other had ever been so brazened enough to stand up to or, been in, least defiance of Zunrogo and lived; more astonishingly still, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), with his features set in firm defiance obdurately had demanded an explanation from Zunrogo.

“Are you goading (provoking) me; do you have a secret wish for death?”

"Sir, this is where I draw the line.” Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) undaunted by Zunrogo’s menacing glower, (look of daggers) obstinately grumbled. “I will not, in all good conscience, have another’s life be put in jeopardy on account of me!"

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) was stanchly (resolutely) considering, rescinding their prior arrangement when the captain, with a curt gesture of his hand, silenced him and roughly pulled him aside. Pinning his face right into Fradel’s, Zunrogo, gritting his teeth, threatened: "You would have been instantly slayed, chopped down for this insubordination; now act like a proper soldier (guard) or else!”

But then, quickly curtailing his fiery temper, in a more moderate tone, Zunrogo reasoned: “I know how it looks, but I assure you, sir, it is necessary."  His cutting tone, nevertheless, was a warning to Fradel, to back off, that, if necessary, he would be carried off, trussed, and bound.

Bearing in mind that he was supposed to be an arrogant but a mild-mannered scholar, Nevetsecnuac (as Fradel), biting his lip, he now checked his derisive (scornful) rebuke.  At that juncture (point in time), a low murmur drew his attention to the side door of the inn.  Nevetsecnuac’s keen eyes caught a fleeting shadow just before the individual darted inside and completely disappeared.  He let it pass.

"I thought you said that there was no real danger," more composed now, Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) turned to address Zunrogo.

"Less for them than you," Zunrogo answered irritably, indicating Briac with his chin.  Raising his voice slightly, on pretext, he admonished Fradel, "Now, sir, I will not have you undermining my authority and demoralizing my men with all your questions."

Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) checked his temper as well, understanding at once that the rebuke was more for the benefit of his double and that there was something graver at stake here.

“Briac, the guard chosen to impersonate you, is the one best suited for this.  His selection was made only after serious consideration."  Zunrogo shifted his body slightly, shielding his face from the view of the guards.  He looked meaningfully at Fradel Rurik Korvald, his gaze and fierce eyes speaking the words that could not be freely uttered, darkness, treachery; furthermore, it warned, stay out of what does not concern you; this turncoat (collaborator) will soon get just his desserts.

Comprehending, Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) turned and looked at Briac with an impassive, blank expression. The guard's face completely ashen, his’s eyes at first looked strangely pained and grave then got filled with loathing when they met Fradel's, after which, he lowered his head abjectly.

Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) returned his expressionless gaze back to Zunrogo, who’d this entire period scrutinized him like a hawk with the cruel half-smile plastered on his lips.  Behind the Captain's seemingly stern mask, his eyes betrayed a profound, impenetrable darkness carrying a brutal, implicit threat not only for Briac but also for Fradel.

04- FRADEL RURIK KORVALD (NEVETSECNUAC) IN ARMY UNIFORM

Unflinching, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) affably (genially) smiled at Zunrogo and he, relenting, perfunctorily smiled back. But underneath the seeming cordiality, Zunrogo pondered. “Yes, you are more than what you seem.  You are no ordinary scholar.  Your aim is much higher. I will therefore watch you, watch you very carefully, Fradel Rurik Korvald, or whatever your real name may be.  It bothers me greatly when I can see that you are not afraid of death, but I will find out the reason why, before this expedition concludes.”

Outwardly tranquil, as if his prior ambiguity had allayed (dispelled), Zunrogo nodded, "I'm glad we finally understand each other; now we can quickly put all this unpleasantness behind us and amicably proceed; as I am most anxious to get started on this trip."

Turning, Zunrogo signaled (cued) the groom to bring forth Briac’s strong steed, inclined his head politely and invited (disguised) Fradel Rurik Korvald to mount up.

 Alternately, Briac was helped by one of the grooms, to mount Scholar Fradel’s relatively inferior mare.

 

                                                                                   ~

(END OF SECTION 21)

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - ON THE WAY TO THE CAPITAL - SECTION 20

When Zunrogo returned to Room Ten Tizan, who had been seated complacently by the fire, sprang to attention at once.

"When did you get back?" Zunrogo asked as he closed the door behind him.

"I preceded you only by minutes, sir." Tizan smiled.

Sitting in the comfortable chair opposite Tizan, he signaled with his chin for the guard to sit down again then leaned back to get more comfortable.  "Well, let’s hear it."

01-TZAN JP

"In accordance with your orders, sir, I kept a close eye on Briac.  As anticipated, shortly after retiring to the room he shares with Frastos, I observed Briac sneaking back out again and followed him down the side alleys to the shop of the local barber on Kannicro Street.  When he entered these premises, I proceeded to climb to the roof and literally eavesdrop on their conspiracy.  It seems that we have not weeded out all the spies in the vicinity, sir. 

Despite Briac's intimidation, the barber still insisted on being paid more for the services of one of his messenger pigeons, yet that tightwad eventually gave up on his curses and met the barber halfway.  A short message was attached to the leg of the bird, and it was set free.  As you per your prior instructions, I did not intercept its flight."  He paused for affirmation.

"You were right in doing that."  Zunrogo was pleased.  "I knew that he would be sending out a message in one form or another soon after the briefing but this pigeon business, I confess, is somewhat precarious, though culpable.  Where did the barber keep them?  How was it, these courier pigeons escaped the now questionable, thorough inspection of the premise?"

"In the attic, sir, behind a false wall… The bleating of a goat kept in the room drowned out the pigeons ‘cooing."

"Keeping a goat in the attic?  And that did not warrant an investigation?"

"Frastos could hardly be blamed, sir.  The barber had concocted a plausible excuse; he said that his senile old mother, who slept in the same room, believed the goat to be her deceased husband returned to this life in another form.  In addition, an ingenious contraption had to be dismantled before the wall gave way.  Apparently, this was there to discourage the old woman from tampering with the pigeons."

"I assume, the situation was corrected then after Briac's departure?"

"Expediently, sir… The barber, his wife, his senile mother, and the remaining birds have all been dispatched, liberated from this world.  The well in the courtyard, however, will not be of much use for some time, I'm afraid."  He grinned coldly.

"I thought, Tizan, that you always liked to be thorough, but I see that I was wrong." Zunrogo smiled wryly at the guard's nonplused expression.

"The goat." he said and chuckled with good humor.

 Tizan grinned, catching the joke.

 "Now, to this business with Briac"

"Excuse me, sir." Tizan interrupted.  "I took liberty, knowing what little time we have, to initiate a solution."  He stalled, seeing the anger flame up in the captain's eyes.

Zunrogo checked his anger.  Tizan, he knew, was a competent underling and he tried not to discourage initiative.  "You have a plan, Tizan?" he asked sternly.  "Well then, let’s hear it."

"Well, sir, only part of it has been implemented.  If it meets with your censure, nothing much is lost.  I wanted to consult with you before carrying out the rest of it."

Zunrogo was intrigued. “All right, at least he's not being overly ambitious.”

Still, he had to confirm, "You, of course, did no harm to Briac?"

02 - BRIAC (2)

"No sir. That would be tantamount to disobeying your orders."

"Let’s hear it, then.  What is it, this great plan of yours?"

"Well, sir, it involves using this."  Tizan picked up a fair size pouch he had kept by the side of the chair until then and, rising, handed it over to the captain.

Zunrogo, with a certain curiosity, peered inside.  At once he apprehended the plan and he beamed, "Well done."

"You approve, then."

"Quite; it’s a fitting end for him, I say."  He handed the pouch back to Tizan.  "You must have been toying with this idea for some time."

"For a while now, sir; however, I had to be first assured of Briac's treachery."  His eyes fell on the pouch.  "Unfortunately, the previous owner was not obliging, and I had to resort to force." Tizan explained dispassionately.

Zunrogo’s heart winced.  He did not need to ask whether the victim was mercifully dispatched or had writhed (squirmed) in agony, for he knew Tizan only too well. In that remote fishing village where once Tizan had lived till about month or so before at the age of twelve, well, Tizan’s cruel stepfather Zianko had done a lot in shaping, unleashing Tizan’s sadistic nature.  (You may check back to: Book 1 – Fisherman’s Prize – Section 3).  

Tizan, since his recruitment, had been rather useful in accomplishing exceedingly difficult, most abhorred tasks; for his conscience never bothered him, in fact, he reveled in it.  His sadistic nature consistently craved, fed on the sufferings of others, even more so when he, himself, inflicted the pain.

"Well, I expect you still have a few more details to see (tend) too." Zunrogo, with a wave of his hand, abruptly dismissed Tizan.  But then, as the guard was headed towards the door, Zunrogo offhand voiced his query: "How will you do it, without waking him up?"

Tizan halting turned to explain, "I knew Briac would be visiting a lady friend of his before he returned to the Inn.  Oh, I've had her screened and she's no threat.  Anyway, after the business with the barber, I left a jug of fine wine on Briac's bed table, supposedly a gift from the Innkeeper to apologize for the incident in the dining hall.  As greedy and selfish as I know him to be, he's sure to consume the entire jug this very night.  I expect him to presently be passed out cold on his bed."

"Then he'll be getting two surprises tomorrow." Zunrogo smiled coldly.  "Do a complete job on him."

"Yes, sir, I most certainly will."  Tizan bowed and, turning smartly, left the room.

“He's too efficient.”  Zunrogo stared at the door with certain uneasiness.  “How much he reminds me of myself at that age.”

                                                                               ~

“Wake up, lazy bag of bones!  Wake up, I say.  It's nearly dawn."

"Oh, leave me alone, damn it!"  His lids half covered his eyes as he took a cursory look at the window.  "It’s still dark outside."  He buried his face back into the pillow.

"Get up this instant, that's an order!"  The commanding voice made him sit up with a start.  Rubbing his eyes into focus, Briac looked bewilderedly from one guard to the other until he saw the captain seated by the fireplace.  Instantly, he sprang out of bed to stand at attention, naked as the day he was born, “Yes sir… sorry, sir."

“At ease. " Captain Zunrogo grunted.

The speed of his movement meanwhile had made Briac’s head, ache, and Briac moved his hand up to rub his aching skull.  "What the…Aiyyegg!" Overnight he had mysteriously lost all his hair, gone completely bald.

“So, it wasn't a bad dream after all.”  His bewildered eyes caught the venomous grin on Tizan's sinister face and noted a certain satisfaction in the depths of his pupils.

 "Are you responsible for this outrage?"  Fists clenched, he turned furiously to Tizan.

"And how do you like your new look?" Tizan stared down at him belligerently.  Throwing his head back, Tizan laughed until a stern look from the captain abruptly silenced him.

With anger and incomprehension in his eyes, Briac looked at Frastos but Frastos stood at attention with his head lowered, attempting with all his might to stifle a laugh.

“You, spineless cur,” Briac inwardly cursed, disgusted by his friend's cowardice.  Turning to Zunrogo, with a pained look in his eyes, his voice anxiously protested, "Sir, what Tizan has done…this is an unmitigated outrage."

The captain did not answer; in his solid, unwavering, stone eyes, there was no emotion at all; he was indifferent, if not completely cold, to Briac's suffering.

03-- ZUNROGO TUGO - JP 26

“How could Captain Zunrogo Tugo have sanctioned this?  How could he have condoned it?  Wasn't it only last night that he had admonished Tizan and warned him to behave?  What could have gone wrong since then?”  Briac blanched.

 “No, that's inconceivable.”  Despite his fierce denial, his heart pounded through his chest as he was seized with inexplicable fear and his head ached even more.

"What are you waiting for?"  Tizan's sharp bark brought him back with a start.

"Put these on at once.  The captain wants to see how you look in them."  Tizan forcefully thrust a bundle into his hands.

Briac venomously glared at Tizan and inwardly cursed. “Despicable beast…This is all your doing; how long did it take you to construct this vile revenge and to beget this humiliation. You deserve to be torn apart, limb from limb, by the wild dogs.”

"But these are not my clothes." Briac outwardly, however, had protested, looking past Tizan to address the captain. 

"Are you dense?  Put them on at once!" Tizan bellowed, so close that his breath, heavy with loathing, beat on Briac's face furiously.

His heart pounded wildly with intense fear, making Briac's hands tremble as he begrudgingly donned the garments and stood before the captain.

"Oh; and put this on too."  Tizan robustly thrust, the scalp with long locks of blond hair, the same shade and color as Fradel Rurik Korvald's, into Briac's hand.  "It’s sure to improve your looks.  No need to thank me for it." He grinned maliciously.

Briac, knitting his brows, looked at the scalp and hair (pelt) with incomprehension.  Then, as understanding dawned onto him his eyes widened with horror and, with a visible shudder, he looked up questioningly at Tizan. “Just what kind of monster are you?”

"Come over here." the captain's stern voice commanded him into a seat.  His cold stare inspected Briac's disguise for the first time as the guard obediently sat down.

"You have been assigned to this most important task," Zunrogo explained with cool indifference. " Yes, you’ve’ been honored with this job, taking in due consideration, of your past extenuating service, your courage in line of duty and, once loyalty to me.”

“Past…. once loyalty…” Briac swallowed dryly, his stomach knotting itself tighter and tighter.

“But Sir,”

"You wish to object?"  The captain's glacial tone froze the blood in the guard's veins.

“Do they know?  Do they suspect that I’m...?  Is this to be only the most lenient part of my punishment?  How could that be, I've been so careful? How could they’ve have found out?” The outcome was too frightful for Briac to even imagine.

“No, that isn't it.”  Briac bit his lip and clenched his fists to control the trembling in his            hands.

 “It can’t be… I’m still safe.  Didn't the Captain just say that I'm being honored?”

 He swallowed fearfully and bowed his head abjectly, dropping his eyes to the ground.

 "No sir." Briac feebly assented.

"Then it's settled." Zunrogo glared.  "From now on you are forbidden to remove this disguise.  Those are your new orders."

"Very well, sir." Briac swallowed dryly and, as the captain got up to leave, he looked up to meet Tizan's eyes.

"What are you afraid of?" Tizan goaded Briac.  "Perhaps you're afraid to die?  You…"

The captain stopped mid-stride and half-turned to stare sharply back at Tizan, silencing him instantly with his look.  Tizan took a step back, cowed.

No sooner was Zunrogo gone than Tizan, a cruel half-smile on his lips, jovially clapped Briac on the shoulder.

"Don't worry, Briac, you'll be well protected.  Frastos and I will see to that.  Won't we, Frastos?"

04- FRASTOS - JP 07

Briac disdainfully jerked away from Tizan's hand and turned his back to him to turn his imploring eyes on Frastos.  "Why me?" the groan escaped his trembling lips.

Frastos avoided Briac's eyes.  Lowering his head, he mumbled softly. "It makes sense.”

But then inwardly, he added, “Better you than me.”

 

(END OF SECTION 20)

 

                                                                                          ~