LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE CAPITAL CHANNING - SECTION 4

Back in his offices, Lamont Gudaren studied the full set of documents very carefully, astutely reading between the lines. He’d thought Luvet would make a perfect undercover agent; he had a clean record, and he was such a bookworm and rather dull academician. He was least romantic, a tedious oaf (boor, fool, klutz); so how did he get so enmeshed with Disaidun Agripe? Who would have thought Ceroz had it in him to do what he did. What really went on in that boat would be anyone’s guess? He’d read Zunrogo Tugo’s brief report also, talking about another disappointment.

 

01- PM LAMONT GUDAREN 10-JP

Lamont’s thoughts turned to his most pressing problem, his nephew Yekav. Personally, he didn't care much for the boy.  His ward was a constant source of disappointment and now a definite liability.

“That idiot nephew of mine, Yekov, is sure to be implicated in this crime, though it seems to be only indirectly.  It may take some doing but I still have influence enough to extricate him from all blame.”

Lamont Gudaren would have said good riddance to Yekov, but in view of these recent developments, for if he did not take certain measures in time to nip this in the bud, Lamont knew that there would be far reaching consequences (repercussions) for him.

The charges were based partially on the truth, this proof had been furnished to him, within a detailed report he had commissioned earlier on, by his operatives (agents).  If Lamont wanted to get well ahead of Egil Viggoaries and his cronies, he could delay acting on this no longer.

“All avenues must be blocked; all incriminating evidence eliminated at the source before the cursed eunuch Egil gains any real advantage. Yekov (his troublesome nephew) will eventually be exonerated, but this will be the last time I’ll go through this much trouble for that dastardly boy.  A fatal hunting accident while visiting his half-brother Keigo Ro in Kensu Province… Hmm… that shouldn’t be too hard, to arrange. “

Having settled on the handling of the problem, Lamont Gudaren dispatched his trusted secretary with the appropriate instructions to ensure that the cover-up was carried out immediately, without a hitch.  The matter now settled, he leaned back in his plush chair and wearily closed his eyes.

This whole business with the boy, mounted upon his other concerns, had irritated him a bit too much.  At times like these, he was happy he had only two female offspring.  They were quite beautiful, too, like their mother.  He was hopeful for their future prospects, but they were still too young for him to include them in his machinations.

 Lamont opened his eyes and stared at the stack of documents that demanded his perusal and signature.  Every day was the same.  However much he delegated, his workload still seemed to increase.  There were never enough manpower and funds to allocate, to deal with all of it satisfactorily.  In view of all the extravagant expenditure, especially those of Royal Family’s, the State funds were fast being depleted.  The treasury accounting records showed a consistent, mounting deficit year after year.

 Owing (due) to a summer drought last year in the western provinces and floods along the lower Yawjun River this spring, the government granaries were at only half of the level (capacity) they should be at this time of the year.  Yet with the new military campaigns, the lavish architectural projects, the bribes that must be paid to assuage the rampant corruption, the fiefdoms granted almost at random, the taxes already a burden, perpetually mounting, he wondered, where would it all end?

 As a matter of fact, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren was at his wits-end trying to find a plausible solution to the failing economy, the rampaging deficit, and at the same time to procure adequate funds for the military and the growing demands for the so-called necessary expenditures incurred for the benefit of the state.  The only partial relief came after the advocated wars when the much-needed tribute was finally paid.

How much longer could they sustain this appearance of a strong nation?  The system was rotten to the core.  But would he dare to let any criticism slip through into any of his reports?  His Highness was most intolerant of any failings, any weakness.  Even the Censorate Bureau, the Treasury Department, the Imperial spies, and Internal Security had all acted as if one body, collaborating with him to obscure these findings, stalling for time until a solution presented itself.

Despite all seeming appearances, his own personal finances were in no great shape either; at least not in the kind of plateau (area of stability) he would like it to be. 

“Ah!  But I have had a few lucky breaks now and then, haven't I?” He stood up, clasped his hands behind his back and slowly strolled over to the window.

 “Mmm! “The sweet scent of rare orchids rose from the courtyard to regale his nostrils.  His eyes fixed themselves to the upright, solid lines of the gingko tree in the center as his thoughts moved on to the upstanding Under Secretary Lenny Sukzor, a man well respected by the Sovereign for his integrity, his strong character, efficiency resourcefulness and his no-nonsense frankness.

In the crunch, it was Lenny Sukzor who could be counted on to diligently carry out the most difficult and delicate jobs that all others shunned for fear of failure. 

 

02- LENNY SUKZOR (2)JP

Lamont Gudaren grinned wryly as he thought back to how the Under Secretary had, quite unexpectedly, disclosed in Court the entire amount of the bribe he had personally received from the emissaries from Kontu, forcing the rest of the Court bureaucrats to do likewise, though Lamont doubted their accuracy of the count, after all, even he had concealed a few small items.

Earlier on, against the advice of many of his well-meaning associates and good friends who had strongly advocated that he gain maximum benefit from the emissaries' offer, Lenny had ruffled few feathers by seeking the Prime Minister Lamont's good council on how best to refuse the gifts secretly lavished on him and return them to the delegation from Kontu.

“Hopefully," Lenny had hemmed and hawed at this point, making an outward show of humility, "this can be done without stepping on any toes, instigating any ill will or triggering any diplomatic incident."

In his heart of hearts, Lamont Gudaren had always disliked the man and thought of him as too ambitious, too pretentious, a tiresome boor and, an instigator of unwarranted troubles if nothing else.

 At the time, he had almost petulantly (sullenly) dismissed him, for his audacity, which would have been a grave mistake on his part. Meanwhile this irregularity raised his suspicions. “Since when, and for what reason our bold, no-nonsense Under Secretary has become so circumspect and elliptical, all of a sudden?”

 Prudently Lamont had at first been rather evasive with his response; but then on second thought, he had concealed his true feelings and his immense annoyance at the upstart and had pretended to acquiesce, with him. Lamont had very graciously then promised to intercede diplomatically on Lenny's behalf and handle the matter of returning the bribes for him. 

Admittedly, that was a bothersome trifle but in the end the benefits he would reap would certainly exceed all expectations.

Lenny Sukzor, not concealing too well his disappointment, suddenly had a change of heart (mind).  Bowing low, he’d profusely apologized for his thoughtlessness in troubling Lamont; then asserting that it would be way too troublesome for Prime Minister and therefore not wishing to impose, stated that, however hard it might be, he would personally handle this matter.

In retrospect, Lamont saw now, this was an underestimation of the man.

 Alas, he’d regretted since then, not anticipating Lenny's next move and upstaging the upstart, by his returning the bribes in a timely manner; for as it happened, Lenny Sukzor had shone like a bright star from that time on, in Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek's estimation; hadn’t he?

“No matter,” Lamont shook his head, but his face grew long and a dark, as shadow fell over his eyes.

“Well, that's water under the bridge now; a missed opportunity is a missed opportunity.” Lamont shrugged; but then his spirits lifted as he thought, “Oh well, at least it wasn't an entire loss. I still got a piece of Lenny Sukzor’s good fortune.”

Lamont picked up the top document and perused it, “This one can wait.” He disdainfully set it aside.

His thoughts reverting to Lenny Sukzor, “Hmm, it turns out he was way too shrewd and certainly far-sighted. “Lamont admitted to himself.

Or perhaps he lacked concrete proof and hoped to delicately forewarn me and the others of the impending disaster.  That may be why he sought first my unneeded advice when, with that glib tongue of his, he could have at any point in time, resolved the matter himself. 

The Prime Minister considered for a time this well-calculated, politically astute move on Lenny's part.  “No, I'm giving him way too much credit.”  He perfunctorily dismissed (rejected) the notion; still, what had transpired next, with an unexpected turn of events, had been a boon.

“It’s that devil Egil Viggoaries that rendered me this great favor, despite him.”

 

03- EGIL VIGGORIES -9JP

The thought of his nemesis seething in rage brought a fresh broad grin of satisfaction to Lamont’s lips.

“I, myself, could not have thought of a better plan than this stroke of luck.  Always plotting to undermine my efforts, it serves that mongrel- dog right that he should now stew in his own juices.” The Prime Minister gloated.

Indeed, before he could fulfill his promise to Lenny of returning the gold to the emissaries, a sudden turn of events had dictated that he follows a different strategy and gain an invaluable opportunity to add a prized addition to his web of secret affiliates. Even though he had not moved thus far to collect on the debt, he was content with the knowledge that Lenny Sukzor was now his to do with as he saw fit. 

“Yes, Lenny Sukzor, with your unblemished reputation, I now own, your body and soul, lock, stock and barrel.” 

The Kontu emissaries had struck a favorable bargain, wherein they had agreed to take the gold itself back without any ill will but would, to mollify their Emperor, leave the rare gifts with their recipient.  Just before Lenny's gold was to be transported back to them, however, a disastrous fire, coincidentally started by lightning, had decimated (consumed) half of the Under Secretary's mansion.

Though the gold in question was stored in that wing of the building that was completely gutted by the fire, it would still have been salvageable with a little effort once the rubble was cleared.  And lo and behold, when they managed that, they found that the entire lot had simply vanished without a trace.

Lamont had suspected that arson was merely a cover-up for a robbery affected by the cooperation of one or two of Lenny’s retinues (attendants).  However, his subsequent covert investigation failed to uncover least trace of incriminating evidence at the scene.  This proved that the thorough job was executed by a professional group’s backing; one capable and powerful enough to affect covert, illegal transaction of disposing of a hot item, one such great mass (heap) of gold.

“Yes,” Lamont sat in chair by the window, “in some ways Lenny Sukzor is still naive. I could have perhaps prevented his open ended (unrestricted, indefinite) investigation and spared him from all that dire trouble; for all the good it did.”   As it were, from the first moment Lamont had heard of the fire, he’d guessed there was a deeper plot at the crux of it all, and it wasn't hard for him to deduce just who, considering the open altercation at Court Lenny had had with Egil Viggoaries just the week before over that trivial matter, the perpetrator (executor) behind it all was.  The eunuch was most notorious for his spiteful (malicious), vindictive nature and his greed, and hardly anyone else had the power to get to Chief Inspector Yori.

“No, that wasn't it, at all. “The Prime Minister quickly dismissed that feeble basis from his overall hypothesis (theory). “There was far more at stake here.”

Knitting his brows, he inclined his head and digressed, reflected on how the Chief Inspector had been a competent, reliable officer ever since Lamont Gudaren had handpicked him for the position.  Up until the fire there had not been any cause, not even the slightest reason to question Yori's integrity or competence.  For eight years of diligent work, he had maintained an unblemished record to his credit but in the blink of an eye that had all changed when, despite the hints of arson, he’d refused to consider any notions of foul play and had persisted in contending in his otherwise meticulous report that it had been lightning that had caused the destruction to Lenny's property.  Of course, Yori was a man who relied solely upon solid evidence to draw his indisputable conclusions, and in this instance all the facts available pointed to lightning as being the cause of the destruction. 

There were no irregularities to warrant Yori's suspicion, what else could Lamont have expected of the man?  The Prime Minister had even asked himself what grounds he had to suspect the Chief Inspector.

“All right then,” the Prime Minister quietly conceded. “There must be another explanation for Yori's unsatisfactory (botched, bungled) investigation of Undersecretary Lenny Sukzor's case. “

 “Perhaps I'm being too harsh, too demanding of the man's ability?” For even his (Lamont’s) own team of experts had failed to prove otherwise; as with all the findings, all the clues had tallied perfectly with the Chief Inspector's original report.  But Lamont Gudaren was innately (instinctively) stubborn official; for countless hours hence, he had poured over both the reports himself, meticulously examining every detail, scrutinizing every recorded fact and, even though it all came to no avail (even he could not detect any irregularities, no suspected insertions, or a single dubious statements) still, he’d remained most insistent on his suppositions.

The more everything appeared to be above board, the nagging feeling in the pit of his stomach prodded Lamont to dig deeper, to investigate all avenues, even the seemingly innocuous ones, to expose what, at present, stubbornly escaped all notice.

 “Some elusive, incriminating thread would eventually link things up.  His hunches had not failed him thus far and it was inconceivable that they would do so now.”

04- CHIEF INSPECTOR YORI

 In truth he’d been rather fond of Yori, as much as he could be of any subordinate.

Despite any proof, on a mere suspicion, Yori's life had been expediently forfeited, so coldly that, even now, the Prime Minister shuddered when he thought about it.

“But it couldn't be helped.”

 Lamont’d dreaded losing him but no sooner, unbidden; names of several possible successors had come to mind.  There was no shortage of competent men to replace him with.

Lamont clenched his fists and angrily turned his eyes away from the gingko tree to follow the tall intertwining hedges that skirted a winding pathway which snaked behind a man-made mountain. Going over, he quickly signed the other document he’d set aside. “There, it was done. Yori replacement would be Halsten Stig”

He stroked his beard, suddenly saddened by the thought of what must inevitably follow.

 Perhaps that fool Lenny had inadvertently, without malice, unleashed this series of events; but the Prime Minister still held him partially to blame.  Why couldn't he have been straight with Yori?  The proof of Yori's innocence had been obtained long after his accidental death.  All that could be done had been done for his wife and surviving child, to ease Lamont's conscience, and the financial burden was added to Lenny Sukzor's still unsettled account.

 Why should the Under Secretary be spared from the consequences of his actions?  All because, when Yori had asked to receive the statement of account of Lenny's losses, the missing gold had been purposefully withheld from the list.  Lenny had remained apprehensive about the idle gossip that could flame the belief that he had instigated arson himself to keep both his integrity and the gold.

“So, he feared above all that his impeccable, precious reputation should be tarnished.” Lamont disdainfully pursed his lips, reflecting on how the Undersecretary’s arrogance, for such a trifle, had wasted a good man's life. That, however, had been the one weakness that had rendered Lenny Sukzor vulnerable to him and at the same time, landed them both in deeper trouble.  At least that was what he had allowed the seeming consequence (upshot), to be generally known.  Fortunately, he had been awakened to the underhanded ploy of his nemesis who, also perceiving this weakness in Lenny; he had no doubt engineered the theft of the gold, not just to discredit the Under Secretary, but also to snare the Prime Minister as well, once Lamont had stuck out his neck for, in support of Lenny. And mistake number two; to extricate himself from this trouble, he had pushed his team to a more in-depth investigation into the case.

 

(END OF SECTION 4) 

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC - THE CAPITAL CHANNING - SECTION 3

Minister Zaur was about to reach for a morsel, when his complexion suddenly became ashen and his pupils for a spell dilated (became wider, larger). He slumped (slouched) back into chair, appearing dazed and as though he was fighting to restrain an overwhelming sense of queasiness (nausea).  That same instance, his mind underwent a subtle but decisive change.

01-ZAUR STUGR 17

Subsequently, as they consumed more spirits the conversation that ensued took on renewed vigor and at the same time became more varied in scope, this lasting well into the night. 

The topic of conversation periodically, amidst insinuations, touched on the existing internal strife in Wenjenkun between the two powerful factions, then purposefully reverted, delving into in depth issues at hand and their resulting spin-offs.  The direct or indirect account recounted in rapid succession next was designed purposefully to confuse the issue or perhaps test Fradel's ability to keep up.

Going along, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) fed the good minister explicit (precise, exact, specific) altercations, challenging issues, and topics, and tiresome or alternately intriguing facts in profusion to dazzle the mind.  Masterfully sparring (jousting, fencing) with ideas and hypothesis, Zaur Stugr had finally met his match.

Though elated at first, soon growing tired of this intellectual banter (repartee, wit), the charade and all that strenuous mind games, Minister Zaur steered the topic once more to seemingly mundane, innocuous affairs.

Nevetsecnuac, with his resilience at first, was reluctant to concede.  He could utilize still more varied stratagems (ploys, gambits), profound views enmeshed with questions to subtly extricate from his host the pertinent information he felt he needed for the successful conclusion to his mission.  Out of consideration for his host, however, he forewent these, seeing how Minister Zaur Stugr 's eyes were now drooping, and his body slouched slightly in utter exhaustion, despite his ceaseless prattling about some present-day political rhetoric that was obviously a hot issue in Court.  In accordance with etiquette, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) akin showing fatigue discreetly yawned; this provided his host, Minister Zaur, the perfect opportunity to propose calling it a night.

 

                                                                                   ~

 

That late evening after Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) had dismissed all his pesky (bothersome) servants and had seemingly retired, his mind until dawn in fact, taking no solace from his plush surroundings, had raced mercilessly with conflicting summations, views, and personages.  Nevetsecnuac’s thoughts, in a profusion of images, veered incessantly from Deng Hedenko, to his beloved Teuquob, to Heng Erling, to Duan, to Lu Moldan, to Yagu Dorka, to Lord Shonne Gulbrand, to Sorgun Dofu, to Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon, to Egil Viggoaries, to Zunrogo Tugo, to Tizan Lout, to Lance Diostin, to Zonar, to Dwengzu, to Zakhertan Yozdek, to Hedenko's assassins, and finally to Zaur Stugr. 

Then unpredictably (variably) Nevetsecnuac’s thoughts had lingered for a time on this curious bureaucrat Zaur whom he suspected to be deeply embroiled in this discriminating, astute world of politics, as well, the underlying layer of intrigue and clandestine acts. Contrasting with the seemingly unassuming first impressions, Nevetsecnuac conceived now that Zaur Stugr was rather a more calculating, complex, manipulative, and very profound individual; a most probable explanation therefore, for his (Nevetsecnuac’s) failure to elicit any candid response to any of the pertinent issues he had put forth, all during this evening. Nevetsecnuac felt quite apprehensive at not being able to penetrate that complex cerebral and psychological hedge that Zaur had erected; hence, not being able to appraise Zaur Stugr’s true motives, his genuine personal feelings, vested interests, or political leanings.

Minister Zaur, with his consummate sophistry had oscillated his arguments expertly during the exchange between diverging points of view, therefore appearing totally non-committed about any issues despite his seeming ebullience.  Zaur Stugr had been most careful, even when inebriated, to offer Nevetsecnuac the precise information that appeared invaluable at the outset but, on closer scrutiny, became a dangerous precipice to traverse, all chiefly to measure Nevetsecnuac's response.

In all that time minister Zaur Stugr had tirelessly woven a web of intangible, indecipherable facts to cloud the real, serious issues that were periodically and purposefully interspersed in the seemingly innocuous conversation.

After a time, Nevetsecnuac in resignation shrugged, then divesting his outer garments, reclined on the bed, however, as sleep still averted  him , he simply lay on his back and fixed his gaze on the ornate ceiling; as his eyes gradually adjusted to the scant light from the solitary oil lamp; he distractedly traced the swirls of the intricate filigree.  Despite his outward calm, his heart was torn by conflicting emotions over the inevitable denouement of his intentions.

He’d gone nowhere with his tireless efforts of obtaining any, least bit of info; all his subtle inquiries had amounted to nothing. Either no one knew or everyone was too frightened to even talk about such dangerous topics. 

The dungeon was immense and had many subterranean tunnels all heavily guarded. As for Lord Asger ‘s son, Ivar Marrog Zhon’s whereabouts, (Nevetsecnuac had learned the name by then,) it had been clearly a well-kept secret. Then there had been that presupposition by some individuals that Ivar Marrog Zhon had long been, secretly expired.  This prospect had profoundly (forlornly) frustrated Nevetsecnuac.

 

02- NEVETSECNUAC  JP 34

Nevetsecnuac’s thoughts reverting to Zakhertan Yozdek, the usurper, he shifted uneasily, in his bed.

Having fully assessed the current political situation well in hand, he had come to grips with the grim, undeniable reality that, when he succeeded in his aim, it portended great danger for Wenjenkun.  Logic and duty in his core again stood in terrible conflict. 

The villainous usurper, Zakhertan Yozdek, for all his brutal crimes, was a necessary evil.  After all, he had consolidated his power over everything and had maintained under his iron rule thus far a strong nation that could easily withstand any foreign aggressor, even one as formidable as Emperor Deng Hedenko.

 And what of Korion, who was waiting in the wings for a single chance to strike back despite their seeming conformity (submission)?

Nevetsecnuac comprehended full well, how by killing Zakhertan Yozdek he would be fulfilling his destiny and avenging the countless dead, victimized, wronged, and oppressed citizens of his country and, at the same time, would be robbing the state of the cornerstone of its strength and its best defense. 

By his action he would cast Wenjenkun into utter chaos, during which internal strife would take hold, led chiefly by those three rival contenders, the Yozdek faction, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren and Minister of Internal Security, Egil Viggoaries’ group, and render the Empire vulnerable to the invading armies of the foreign aggressor, Deng Hedenko, admittedly a greater villain than Zakhertan Yozdek. 

Yet, despite pertinent (relevant) logic, his heart was propelled to wrack vengeance upon Zakhertan Yozdek, if only for Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon; and besides, he was deeply bound by a strong sense of duty, filial piety, and loyalty to his family, they, taking precedence before Wenjenkun.  How, otherwise, could he face his Ancestors, Lord Asger Zhon, Lord Shonne Gulbrand, the real Fradel Rurik Korvald and the countless others who had sacrificed so much to give him this singular chance? 

Nevetsecnuac did not delude himself that he could, by enlisting the support of one of the rival contenders, through the application of ‘the divide-and-conquer strategy’, take over the state as Crown Prince and rightful heir, without the full support of the army and enough of the bureaucrats to administer the state. So entrenched were these three factions, in the fabric of Wenjenkun that any real change would be improbable, not while these cliques retained even the fraction of their power. There would, at best, still be a period of transition during which the contending parties of the Prime Minister, the Eunuch and the Yozdek family, one by one, would have to be put down and, if need be, entirely (rooted out) eradicated.

 Nevetsecnuac knew that, in most perfect scenario, should he survive these ordeals, his reign may well become the briefest Dynasty. He was also mindful (aware), that his precarious scholar disguise (as a Fradel Rurik Korvald) would not last to avail him of another such opportunity.  The pending (imminent) reversal of fortune for literate was fast approaching (near). They would once more become the escape-goat in the blame game for all the ills of society and county. Meanwhile, the burden of vengeance for all those wronged, restless spirits rested solely and squarely on his shoulders, and he alone had been given this one-time rare opportunity to avenge them all and bring the villain Zakhertan Yozdek to justice.

 Could he spare him because the country needed a strong leader to control the precarious state of internal and external (foreign) affairs that was chiefly Zakhertan’s doing in the first place? 

He had sustained this political volatility chiefly to ensure his uninterrupted reign, right down to fostering an incompetent weakling, which was Crown Prince and heir apparent, Herleif.

Things had already been set in motion. The dreaded future of this country being overrun by a foreign aggressor was as inevitable as the dawn of the day. Once Zakhertan Yozdek was dead, whether it was by assassination or just old age, Wenjenkun was fated to be plunged into a struggle for power that would leave it vulnerable for any hostile takeover.  As Nevetsecnuac saw it, he had no other alternative but to fulfill his destiny and abide by ‘Heaven’s Mandate’.  The Yozdek Reign was meant to end at this time. That was surely a ‘Divine Intervention’, at work here; and that is why he’d been lured out prematurely into this vengeful world. Five years would not have made that much of a difference; he knew full well, that is to be the truth now.

It was in this terrible; unresolved state of mind that Nevetsecnuac (Fradel) faced (greeted) the first light of dawn.

 

                                                                        ~

After the morning session of Court and as soon as he had concluded his other obligations and responsibilities of office, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren in an unorthodox, yet politically astute move, visited the private residence of the Minister of Ceremony, Zaur Stugr, to extend his personal welcome to the illustrious scholar and poet Fradel Rurik Korvald- one that had been chosen particularly by the Sovereign's chief consort and most recent favorite, Sejon.

In keeping with propriety, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) bowed low and said, "I have been remiss in my duty and have failed to pay my respects upon my arrival in Channing, to you, Your Excellency; to my great shame you have honored me instead, with your visit."

03- PM LAMONT GUDAREN 7-JP

“I am only too happy to do it.” Prime Minister responded in an unusually affectionate tone and smiled; after which, though he was more than twice Fradel Rurik Korvald’s age, Lamont Gudaren bowed his head slightly in return, as measure of his deep respect, to the scholar.

The Prime Minister, with his glib tongue, bestowed his further felicitations and other such pleasantries as they both moved towards the reception chamber.

There, host and guests (all three,) comfortably seated sipped fragrant tea, and, under the guise of a seemingly innocuous, sincere conversation, they gauged each other’s strengths and weaknesses. During this seemingly pleasant exchange of ideas which lasted several hours, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren, a man of discerning mind, became more and more enthused by the infinite potential he saw in this scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald.

 

“I could reap untold benefits from furthering this scholar.”  He told himself. 

 

Never one to take chances, however, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren extended his visit of Minister of Ceremony, Zaur Stugr and Illustrious Scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald and stayed for lunch.  During the sumptuous private feast, despite the heavy consumption of wine, tirelessly, yet discreetly, Prime Minister prodded scholar’s mind further, to ascertain that his first impressions about him had been correct.  By the end of his subsequent, though, subtle (shrewd, ingenious) examination, Lamont was unequivocally impressed with the scholar's superior attributes; his eloquence, his outstanding quickness and brilliance of mind, his noble bearing, and exceptional good looks; all these findings had far exceeded the Prime Minister's expectations.

“If Fradel Rurik Korvald had been born to a noble family he would have, most certainly, gone much farther than he had.” Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren mused, looking down and stroking the long, stringy beard that reached his mid-chest.

 

 “But all is not lost; even at this late stage, something can easily be arranged.”  

At that very moment Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren had conceived a plan to utilize the scholar’s full potential by adopting him into his ranks where, as his protégé, he could mold Fradel into the position of greatness he deserved.

“Ah, that is if the political winds do not shift yet again.” But then on second thought Lamont conceded that it would be best to exercise caution and bide his time until Fradel Rurik Korvald had passed His Highness' scrutiny.

“Yes, we will first assess the impression you make on the Emperor, Fradel Rurik Korvald, before we risk all in any venture on your behalf.”

 

Prime Minister was just then given a confidential message; after a quick perusal, despite his reluctance to end the stimulating exchange (conversation) with Fradel, he quickly rose to his feet.  Stating that, “he must return to his office to attend to an urgent matter of the State,” he quickly left.

Seated comfortably within the posh carriage that was hastening away, Prime Minister Lamont Gudaren knitted his brows in ire and mumbled.  “How could things have gotten so out of hand? No doubt about it, Egil Viggoaries has engineered this!  He has played his hand just so, to discredit me.”

 

 

                                                                                ~

 

(END OF SECTION 3) 

 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)