LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL – SECTION 6 

Suddenly, Dwengzur struck an idea, and his menacing, calculating eyes yet again turned to burrow decisively into Fradel Rurik Korvald’s.

Fear- yes, first he will inject true fear into this upstart scholar. For fear, he believed, was the most potent ingredient to which all humans unequivocally responded. This, he had confirmed repeatedly, in all his past, aberrant dealings with the humans. Victory was so within his grasp now! He exhaled deeply, confident of his future triumph.

01- DWENGZU

"Enough! I have been civil with you long enough." He suddenly burst, slamming his palm down onto the table. "No more prevarication; I have no more time to waste with the likes of you. I would not care if you were the portended future Emperor of a New Dynasty, one that would reinstate this flea-bitten nation Wenjenkun to magnificence; you have tried my patience to the brink!" 

Blinded by his indignant fury, he dismissed Fradel Rurik Korvald’s slight, involuntary wince. "You humans," Dwengzur, his face beet red with rage, spat out the words as if they were a mouthful of venom, "you're all alike: irrational, crude and intolerable. This is what I think of all of you!" Pointing at the nearest dignitary he invoked a short incantation in an incomprehensible murmur. The immobile man was just then released from his trance and, before he could utter a single word, even a cry of astonishment, he began diminishing in size until he was no more than the size of an ant.

In horror, Nevetsecnuac watched Dwengzur pick up the wriggling, tiny figure by a single leg between his thumb and index finger.

Nevetsecnuac relented, for having pushed Dwengzur this far. "Why take this out on him?" His angry shout, however, was ignored by Dwengzur, as he with a cruel smile on his lips, crushed the unfortunate dignitary to a pulp.

"There, one less vermin. He is no more." he said this with disdain, as he wiped his fingers clean, on the tablecloth.

The Undersecretary to Egil Viggoaries shared a similar fate soon afterwards. Next, the Teylon ambassador was turned into a ripe date which disappeared into Dwengzur's mouth in a flourish.

His anger still not satiated (abated), the Immortal turned his attention to the acrobats, invoking another incantation which instantly turned them into piles of steaming cow excrement. He scoffed, "An apt criticism of their dreadful performance, I say."

Stunned and outraged Nevetsecnuac was, he was now even more determined to deny Dwengzur the least satisfaction, "Are you through with your petty, childish tantrums?"

"Petty…  Childish did you say?"  With a deafening roar Dwengzur turned towards Fradel Rurik Korvald to chastise him proper, only to, quite unexpectedly, throw his head back and burst into a raucous roar of laughter which reverberated through the entire hall.

"You have such audacity (sheer guts), human, I'll give you that much credit. Of course, it will do you no good."  Rising, he faced Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) squarely and began to invoke an even more terrible spell.

02- IMMORTAL DWENGZU CASTING A SPELL 2

"Is this all you can do; these cheap parlor tricks?" Fradel (Nevetsecnuac's) deliberate provocation cut Dwengzur's concentration, breaking the spell.

"You need a good lesson in manners, human! I am through pussyfooting around with you!" Dwengzur bellowed, gnashing his teeth and began to recite yet another, different spell. A flick of his finger forced Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) to his knees.

Fradel tried to rise, but his knees felt as if they were bolted to the floor. His hands defied his will, weighed down as if by lead weights, they fell to the floor forcing him into a kowtow position. Again, and again his head was pressed down, his forehead touching the floor-rug in a gesture of abject humility.  Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) gritted his teeth. Frozen by the spell, his mouth and tongue refused to form the angry words of rebuke (scolding, reproof) he wanted to hurl at Dwengzur.

At first this display of humiliation delighted and amused Dwengzur but he soon grew tired of it.  He snapped his fingers once more and this time Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac) was, gripped by a violent force which whisked him completely off the ground and hurled him across the hall to, have his back be, sadistically slammed against the far wall. It was only his martial training and the fact that, the wall was, cushioned by a thick tapestry that spared Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) from having his ribs crushed (and perhaps his spinal cord entirely (crushed) shattered /flattened) by the impact.

As it was, he still suffered a slight concussion and, few badly bruised ribs and limbs. Pinned and unnaturally propped up against the far wall seven feet above the floor, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) struggled once more with all his might but failed to get free; nevertheless unyielding, he considered his options and strained his eyes to at least, see clearly.

Obviously enjoying Fradel Rurik Korvald’s fruitless struggle, Dwengzur flicked his fingers once more. Out of nowhere, two hundred fiery daggers suddenly manifested themselves, suspended in mid-air between them.

"Do your worst!" Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) shouted defiantly as soon as his tongue had been released. "Let’s see what a great marksman you are!"

With a smile on his lips, Dwengzur not deigning (condescending) to answer, simply motioned for the attack. In an instant the fiery blades shot across the room at blinding speed only to halt, a hairsbreadth away from the thin layer of skin protecting Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) vital organs. Though they did not touch Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) at all the scorching heat of the fiery blades still seared his flesh and blinded his eyes. At a single breath from Dwengzur, the burning blades turned frosty blue, and the heat was replaced by numbing cold.

That same instant Nevetsecnuac's sight being restored to him, Nevetsecnuac saw that behind the blades, (just inches away from Nevetsecnuac’s face,) Dwengzur having had floated over, was presently, hovering in mid-air and leering at him with a cruel smile on his lips.

"Have you had enough, or would you like some more demonstration of my powers?" Dwengzur sardonically asked.

"Oh, but I'm having so much fun; why would I ever wish for this to end?" Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) used sarcasm to hide his mounting resentment.

“My aim is to please.” Dwengzur responded mockingly, disappointed, and yet amazed at Fradel’s resilience and his lack of fear, this being quite evident in the eyes that so defiantly met his own. Dwengzur snapped his two fingers and instantly all the knives vanished into thin air; subsequently, Dwengzur’s form begun to grow and grow. He then transformed into the most hideous, hellishly abhorrent creature that Nevetsecnuac had ever seen.

03- DWENGZU TAKING ON A HORRIBLE FORM

But then the form changed and got even worse. At the top of the creature’s forehead floated four blazing red, reptilian pupils and behind them, Nevetsecnuac observed, two ugly, razor-sharp spiraling horns fastened to Dwengzur’s oblong skull. His gaping red mouth, meanwhile, dripping with green, putrid saliva as if in anticipation of a feast, hovered just inches from Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) face. Suddenly, with the back of his paw the vile creature swiped at Nevetsecnuac's head, nearly rendering him senseless.

The creatures’ long claws next dug in and tore away Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) garments to expose naked flesh; at which point with a groan of pleasure the beast that Dwengzur had become, sunk his elongated fangs deep into the abdomen to tear out a raw chunk of flesh.  As the ogre Dwengzur chewed at this delectable piece, his eyes focused on another part, anticipating the flavor in his rank maw. Swallowing the last bit, Dwengzur was about to indulge in more when Nevetsecnuac, rising above the excruciating pain, invited the beast to sample a portion from the higher segment of his torso instead, and to feast on an unequivocally more delicious, living, pulsating heart.

Dwengzur's quadruple eyes blinked simultaneously; he looked down at Fradel and then up at the ceiling, as he considered this. Finally, he shook his head and groaned, as he (grasped) comprehended the ominous warning which had emanated abruptly, from deep within.

“No!” The siren had said, “You need this prey alive for the longest time possible, as his augmented anguish is the very nourishment your essence craves, far more than the scrumptious vital organs and tender human flesh.”

The beast reluctantly acquiesced, that is what is missing here; yes, the prey must not expire too soon; meanwhile, the portions tastes even better when it is seasoned with the juices of fear!

Its quadruple eyes of the beast now lowered, it targeted Fradel’s left thigh; sinking its fangs in deep, it tore away substantial chunk comprising both muscle and bone, then commenced to leisurely crunching it.

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac)had intrepidly gritted his teeth and bore this excruciating pain also, without a single groan or a whimper escaping his lips. Suddenly, he was reminded of the hallucinatory experience in the forest and, with an iron will, denied the existence of this current reality (actuality).

The beast in the meantime having finished his mouthful had licked his chops and now bit into Fradel’s right thigh. Yet, oddly enough, his fangs could not, would not penetrate the skin of his prey, let alone tear away any tender flesh. Refusing to give way, Dwengzur attacked repeatedly, only to be stymied time and, again. Then he noticed even the parts he had mauled prior, now gradually growing back and, in due process being returned to normal.  Again, and again his fangs targeted different segments of Fradel’s body, only to be denied least satisfaction at every turn. It was no use. Howling angrily, creature Dwengzur stepped back and, with his great, beastly head, nodded.

Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) resolve had broken the spell.

 

  

(END OF SECTION 6)

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL – SECTION 5

 Dwengzur, muttering an incomprehensible incantation, first drew a small circle of flame in the air, blew at it then, gestured grandly, “Behold!”

As Dwengzur sat on the chair and leaned his back to view the scene in comfort, the circle meanwhile had expanded then, got filled with images.

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) now noted with disdain Zakhertan Yozdek’s Spartan sleeping quarters. Few minutes later, at the appointed hour Zakhertan’s personal guards took up their usual posts at outside, while Zakhertan pretending to retire, climbed into bed and drew up the curtains. But instead of going to asleep, he had slyly withdrawn to the secret antechamber off the bedroom proper, which he had often used. Meanwhile, the curtains around his bed being tightly drawn, gave the impression that he was there within and, fast asleep.

01- ZAKHERTAN YOZDEDK  (9) JP

Sovereign Zakhertan had been bidden by Dwengzur, to remain in his secret antechamber, for his safety’s sake, till all (the assassination attempt and the response), was over; alternatively, however, Zakhertan had planned to re-emerge once the fighting had started to observe and gain firsthand knowledge of the Immortals’ (otherwise well- guarded) abilities. This aspiration if fulfilled, would have made Zakhertan even more powerful.

Nevetsecnuac just then noted the Immortal Dwengzur peeping out from behind the ebony partition, having previously entered the room and hidden in a secret alcove behind the dark-hardwood-panel, his face the very picture of impatience. He’d waited there, nearly an hour, to set upon Zonar with a deadly force, the moment latter showed up. Dwengzur instantly ducked back in again as the rumbling groan forecasted the arrival of Zonar. The ceiling parted with a crackling noise and, riding a flotilla of clouds, Zonar majestically descended slowly into the center of the room. Instantly he became aware of Dwengzur's presence and turned to confront the threat. With lightning speed, Dwengzur had already launched his attack only to see the deadly onslaught parlayed with equal agility. Zonar struck back. Not once, but twice he delivered simultaneous assaults to the vulnerable points of his ardent foe. Dwengzur's clearly pronounced surprise was evident (marked) on his features; he had grossly underestimated Zonar's abilities. That mistake he strove to quickly rectify however, as Nevetsecnuac's eyes then beheld an incredibly electric fighting display. Meanwhile as if there were no walls there at all, Nevetsecnuac observed Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek springing up from his cot in the secret antechamber off the bedroom proper, unsheathing his sword and charging towards the door. Zakhertan next, tried turning the knob with his free left hand, to go outside.

Nevetsecnuac's face at once became suffused with anger as he noted the sword the usurper was brandishing in his right hand, the legendary sword of his great, great grandfather, Inghard Nevetsecnuac Therran Valamir, the founder of Ingolf Dynasty.

Nevetsecnuac had first learned the existence of this sword from the historical archives (the ancient paintings provided the image) as he was growing up under the assiduous tutelage of Lord Asger Thuxur Marrog Zhon. The annals (chronicles and monographs) had also alleged, the blade had been forged from the meteorite that had fallen to Earth on the very day of Inghard Nevetsecnuac Therran Valamir's birth. The metal extracted from the meteorite rock was unyielding and unworkable; but after an extensive search, only an Indigenous blacksmith from a remote region of Anzui, proved capable of forging it into a magnificent sword. For decades since, this heirloom had proven indispensable on the battlefield for the warrior kings of Wenjenkun, as the blade kept its acerbic (sharp) edge regardless, slicing through rock, metal, and the strongest armor of most formidable foe. Moreover, the archives had stated that the sword possessed magical properties, and, in the benevolent hands of King Inghard and subsequent descendants, it had always radiated a pure blue, iridescence. With disdain Nevetsecnuac observed the bloody crimson glow that enveloped the sword’s blade now that it was in the grip of the villainous Usurper Zakhertan Yozdek.

02- ZAKHERTAN YOZDEDK  (1) JP

Finding the door jammed Sovereign Zakhertan Yozdek meanwhile, with fury and great strength had struck, pounded, viciously kicked the door, and pulled at the doorhandle, as he same time bellowed commands and dire treats to both Dwengzur and his own indomitable guards. The sturdy construction of the doors, however, would not yield in the least. Once locked, they were made to withstand any onslaught; furthermore, at both ends Sovereign and the frantic guards’ efforts had all been-impeded by Dwengzur’s prior incantation, which kept both sets of doors sealed up tight, via (by means of) supernatural force.

All the while, in mid course, the uncanny, magnificent (outstanding) battle between Dwengzur and Zonar had raged. The impressive sight on occasion took Nevetsecnuac's breath away. Most of the time their forms were unrecognizable, just a huge, swirling blurs that assumed various shapes, colors, and sizes.

03- TREMENDOUS BATTLE BETW. IMMORTALS

Somersaulting, and then shooting up into the air, unobstructed by the non-existent ceiling, their swords clashed repeatedly in bursts of electric fire. Every so often they conjured up vile, hideous demons to engage in simultaneous combat overhead, their fiery blazes lighting up (illuminating) the sky all the way to the Heavens. The battle was so fantastic, so incredible; it boggled all senses and the mind.

Witnessing this, Nevetsecnuac's indomitable resolve and confidence gradually now waned, as he realized (grasped) the measure of his own mortal ability; moreover, he had now fully comprehended how Dwengzur and Zonar could only be, bested or killed, by their own kind and no other. His contest with Zonar therefore, aside from that lucky hap-stance (where the amulet was, lost), had been all along a hopeless escapade (feat).

“That is right! Now you know just what it is you are up against,” Dwengzur ejected smugly, eyeing Fradel Rurik Korvald.

Disregarding Dwengzur’s words and once more mental block in place, Nevetsecnuac further reflected how his hallucinogenic episode had been in fact a serious forewarning. Dwengzur being a more competent Immortal, what hope did Nevetsecnuac have, of besting him?

A slight feeling of consternation gripped Nevetsecnuac’s heart as he faced this new reality. Thankfully he had not tried engaging Dwngzur in a mortal combat; if he had done that, he could have sabotaged his chief aim! After all the training, the sacrifices the others had made on his behalf, all he had been through, and it would have all been (futile) in vain. At least he’d not made the gross underestimation of Dwengzur’s power! Nevetsecnuac was glad now, heeding his intuition earlier and, opting to fight Dwengzur solely through (by way of) psychological warfare.

Even though Nevetsecnuac knew beforehand the outcome of this now incessantly raging battle between the two Immortals, having witnessed its gruesome, violent ending (on his first day, arriving at the Capital), it only strengthened his earlier resolve and same time, rekindled his seething contempt for this formidable, invincible foe, Dwengzur. He would therefore do his utmost to avenge Zonar and to destroy Dwengzur. His mind unrelenting, Nevetsecnuac began formulating his next manoeuvre (plan). You must be like the water. He reminded self.  You must seem to yield when that is requisite, while adapting stealthy tactic to seize the advantage and obtain apex result.

Relaxing his mind’s block, Nevetsecnuac let this next thought now unobstructed, be revealed to Dwengzur, and then ended it with this sentence, how does it feel to be goaded, to have the shoe on the other foot?

“Hah?” Picking Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) deliberately antagonistic projection and than the goading, Dwengzur glared (in daggers) at Fradel Rurik Korvald. “What is that? You dastardly fiend, you played me?”

The Immortal was now quite incensed; then, Fadel’s subsequent projected thoughts aced his fury.

“None have dared be that presumptuous with me and lived to tell of it. Death will be a welcome relief when I am through with you, Fradel Rurik Korvald!”  Gritting his teeth, the immortal threw Fradel a contemptuous, venomous scowl, yet the controlled inner peace of the scholar did not waver, not in the least, in response to the threat in Dwengzur's eyes. Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) furthermore had continued outwardly with his prodding, the taunt clearly perceptible in his (vernacular) each idiom: "Such an impressive combat, yet the reason, which is the real reason, for Zonar's denunciation (censure), persecution  and demise, or rather his execution is, now please allow me a primitive being, to reiterate, to affirm that : Zonar Kuntzu’s condemnation had nothing at all to do with his interferences in the mortal realm, nor was it the posed threat to Zakhertan Yozdek; rather, it was necessary because your sacred laws had been breached. He dared to live and thrive at the outside world. As Zonar can never be forced into compliance, not by Elders of Karn or you, his defiance being the real threat, he was hence, slated (scheduled) for death. Imagine being threatened by one solitary Immortal, your race is doomed to fail, repeatedly.” Nevetsecnuac grimaced and shook his head, and then, continued with his taunting (goading). “Your race’s antiquated laws despite your prior claim of it being for the preservation of humankind is in truth is for, vigorously, at times belligerently, safeguarding and perpetuating Karn Race’s superiority over, not just us humans, but all other races.”

“Moreover, even though by your own admission, we humans are not worthy of any serious consideration, your kind is actually threatened by the inherent potential that you see in us."

After a purposeful pause, Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac)’s unflinching, dogged pupils was again, pinned, on the Immortal's flaming eyes. Fradel grimaced coldly, as he now inwardly and deliberately provoked the other. “Yet, intriguing and true these notions be, perhaps you would care to hear my further caveats(forewarnings)?” 

Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) in deliberate slowness projected these next set of thoughts, making sure Dwengzur had grasped fully every premise (concept, idea, opinion).

04- ZONAR FIGHTS DWENGZUR

Fradel’s eyes back on the fighting Zonar, he gasped, as if in admiration. “What a fine warrior he is. Better then anyone I believe that your kind could produce!” All the while letting Dwengzur read his thoughts, without hindrance, he then turned his hard gaze back on Dwngzur and deliberately, with needling (inciting) thought, further provoked him:   “It is my contention that you pursued and so grievously disposed of such an exceptional, immortal warrior, because his true abilities were yet to manifest (ascertained). Also, guided by his contaminated heart, he might have posed more serious future disruptions to your race; as well, sought apt vengeance (retribution) for the grievous murders of his natural father, foster parents and mortal siblings.”

Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) uncanny, finely-honed (keen) insight unnerved Dwengzur; he now stared, for a time, menacingly back at Fradel and then, enunciated (issued) aloud this threat:  "I have underestimated you, scholar Fradel Rurik Korvald. I assure you, sir, I shall not repeat that mistake again." 

Not in the least bit intimidated, Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) simply smiled.

 Dwengzur’s piercing, contemptuous eyes meeting the scholar’s unflinching gaze however, he again encountered the same obstruction, the same resistance to his probing. Undaunted, Dwengzur grimaced. “Go ahead,” he scoffed, detesting Fradel Rurik Korvald yet respecting him more, “erect all the barriers you can; in the end you will still lose. Your aim is too transparent.”  

A dismissive wave of the hand made the reeling scene on the wall, poof, disappear. He would not share any more information with this upstart scholar.

Feeling suddenly parched, Dwengzur reached for the wine decanter, consumed the contents of it in one, long, unhurried guzzle (swig, swallow) and, placing the empty flagon (flask) back onto the table, leaned back.

“I'm onto your tricks, petty human.”  He coldly scrutinized Fradel, while lending him only half an ear. “Two can play at this game.”  Dwengzur glowered.

Enjoying the predominant atmosphere of antipathy and this rare human’s uncommon courage and wit, “We’ll see just how long you can keep this up!”  Dwengzur, with his look of daggers, jeered at Fradel.

“But wait, I'm not through speculating.” Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac’s) projected his subsequent, uncanny thoughts, which was at once picked up by Dwengzur. “I now venture to guess as to the real reason you, sir, have sought out my company and the motive behind this constrained inquisition… You wish to know if Zonar had imparted to me any sacrosanct Immortal's secrets.”  Nevetsecnuac boldly met Dwengzur's eye, catching the fleeting glint of acknowledgment in them.

"Why should I deny it?"  Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) shockingly direct revelation disturbed Dwengzur (took him back, made Dwengzur anxious) for a spell.

"But even if you utilize all your powers; still, you cannot extract it from me.” Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) bluffed, his eyes daringly meeting Dwengzur’s.

Most astonished by this display of raw courage, Dwengzur's indignation ebbed, and he grimaced slyly. "Your goading will not work this time?" Dwengzur interrupted Fradel subsequent words, with a gesture of his hand.

"Then again, your species are frequently deceitful; humans in general, are not known for their candor." Dwengzur shook his head. "In whatever status, misinterpretations of facts are an art form to you humans. Am I to believe that you are so different, a mutant perhaps?"  He looked directly, incredulously at Fradel, trying to gauge his response.

" No; after each encounter Zonar did not tarry long enough to pass on any such info, I’m certain of that.” Dwengzur after a deliberate pause, concluded. "Considering the gravity of this matter however, I must obtain solid confirmation for my self; and that can only be achieved, by penetrating your mind. The consequential damage, I assure you, will be minimal."  Then, as congenially as he could, he demanded that he, be allowed, to do just that.

Though a small consolation (solace, relief), it had been made perfectly clear to Nevetsecnuac by now, how without his permission Dwengzur could not probe into the deep recesses of his subconscious. Nevetsecnuac, with his definite misgivings about the Immortal, simply shook his head as his answer in the negative.

Dwengzur predictably viewed this refusal, as clear indication of the Scholar’s guilt; impatient with this standoff, he drummed his fingers on the table and pensively looked away:  So far, guile and coaxing had produced no satisfactory results. However, intriguing this obstinate human was, he still had wasted his precious time, particularly since he had hoped to have been well on his way by now.

He turned his harsh gaze back on Fradel and narrowing his eyes, ejected acerbically: "If you know what’s good for you, you’ll just relent."

Nevetsecnuac defiantly met other’s piercing eyes and shook his head, "You cannot intimidate me. I will relent all right; when Hell freezes over!”

"That can easily be arranged." Dwengzur's bark shook the entire hall to its foundations before he turned his head away to check his rising temper.

 It certainly would not do to reduce all of this to ashes. The Immortal exhaled deeply, oh, I had hoped to avoid this but, constrained for time as I am, I am hoping my master will go easy on me for this necessary infringement (via force to involuntarily extracting it out of him). Dwengzur’s ambivalence, this circumspect (guarded, prudent) leniency, of course had stemmed from, his innate terror of his master and the all too frequent repercussions (penalties) that he had endured, for his regular acts of disobedience; and so, for few more seconds he just fixed his blank stare on the tapestry hanging on the far wall. Then again there was that other option; he shrugged, and for that, scholar’s willpower needed, to be broken! Dwengzur's face, for a spell, shone with dark malice and he lowered his thoughtful gaze on the floor.

No, not just yet; he will use it as the last resort. As it where, he had already gone too far and for that, his punishment will not be light… Abruptly stopping his subsequent conjectures (speculations), he shook his head to dispel, to purge the succeeding (resultant) rush of unpleasant images and thoughts from his mind.

(END OF SECTION 5)

 

                                                                                            ~ 

 LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL – SECTION 4

Dwengzur, continued on with his narration of Zonar’s immortal father’s daring escape from the icy peaks, carrying with him his infant twins; consequently, his ensued (succeeded) disappearance into the mortal realms.

01- THE ICY PEAKS

“The renegade immortal Chando (Zandar Kuntzu) along with his infant son Zonar and daughter Arnora for a time settled down in a remote, obscure part, at the edge of a border town in Korion; experiencing firsthand, all the intriguing and bizarre characteristics and emotional turmoil, which was so prevalent at the mortal realms.”

“Earth years went by quickly; in all that time, Zandar had brilliantly (most effectively) concealed his true essence for well over a decade, during which time, to perfect his disguise, he had even taken a (also red-haired) mortal female  as his nuptial mate and sired (conceiving with her) two additional offspring, a boy, and a girl.”

02- ZANDAR AND HIS MORTAL WIFE

“During this period, Zandar’s extraordinary metamorphosis had been so complete that he had remained successfully covert (hidden) until the day of reckoning when he had finally been, hunted down by yours truly and Sthetor, and then, along with his mortal wife and children, properly disposed.”

“But I’m getting well ahead of myself; anyhow, well before this, and well before Zandar Kuntzu’s demise, anticipating this outcome, Zandar had entrusted the Immortal toddlers, Zonar and Arnora, to the care of others. Zandar had competently ensured twin’s safety, first by choosing an old, frail go-between mortal female who had died soon afterwards and, by purposefully remaining ignorant of the identities of the subsequent, two different foster families that were destined to raise his son and daughter.”

“Every infant Immortal born to the Karn Race, existed alike a mortal human being, until the age of adulthood (of about thirty earth years); hence, untraceable in that period. After maturity, it was of course a different story. Before Zonar and Arnora had been given-away, as an added protective measure, Zandar Kuntzu had also, astutely implanted a magical command in the children’s subconscious minds which had prevented his son and daughter, even after they had reached adulthood, from ever utilizing their powers. This held true for Arnora but, for inexplicable (mysterious) reasons, not for Zonar ; nevertheless, Zonar’d remained mortal all the while he was living in Korion.”

“At the time I’d (Dwengzur) been assigned to this task of, tracking and disposing of the vermin renegade Immortal Chando (Zandar Kuntzu) and his Immortal offsprings -  to ensure my success, I’d been previously instructed by the most ancient elder Aegeus, on this taboo knowledge and, given the skill and the means with which to hunt down and slay another Immortal. To alleviate your curiosity, I will tell you this much. When an Immortal’s congenital (inherited) and varied powers are fully restored at maturity, from then on, every time he used his innate powers, it would leave a subtle subatomic residue (trace) which could easily then, be picked up by those who knew how.”

“Ironically, it had been those very incantations (spells) Chando (Zandar) had invoked when Zonar and Arnora were still a toddler, which had left a faint filtrate (residue), that had then enabled Sthetor (the one who’d  left the mountain and accompanied me, to render me invaluable guidance) and  me, to track the whereabouts of Zandar and to eradicate (destroy) him and his mortal family. Nevertheless, the success of my assignment was rendered incomplete by Chando’s prior taken action; hence, Zonar and Arnora, living incognito (disguised) in well enough distance, survived. My superior Sthetor was furious and for a very long time, refused to give up the rigorous search; despite all expended effort, however, Immortal twins remained well hidden from our radar. What I am about to reveal now, the intriguing course of their fate, was acquired much later on. First let me state briefly, first the tale of Anora then Zonar. “

03 a- ANORA

 “Arnora, at young age was abducted by an ardent enemy of her foster father, which in turn smuggled her into Wenjenkun. There, her abductor was of mind to sell her to a brothel, to mitigate his wrath and to get apt retribution (payback, vengeance). On route to the capital however, they were attacked by a well-organized group of bandits. During the scuffle, the abductor and his servants and guards were all slain; meanwhile, the frightened child, pursued by one of the bandits, driven to the precipice off a high jagged cliff  and unfortunately loosing her footing, fell into the abysmal void. No one could have survived that fall; hence (as she was presumed to be dead), no further search was conducted.”

“Remarkably, though she was badly injured, she still lived long enough to be discovered and rescued by Lord Wutenzar Thuxur Marrog Zhon, during one of his hunting trips. Arnora was nursed back to good health, but having suffered amnesia, Lord Zhon and his wife Anselma (who happened to be the elder sister of 7^th Prince Shon), who only had one son Asger, and could not have another because of her Ladyship difficult birth, adapted her to be their second child and she was given a new name Ingrit.”

04- INGRIT (AT 17) 2

“Ingrit grew up to be an enchanting beauty and at the age of seventeen, caught the eye of His Highness The 7^th Prince- Shon Alric Therran Valamir. As it were, after the death of his beloved wife, Prince Shon had remained single and grief-stricken for well over five years. “Now smitten anew with new love, despite the age difference the two, only after only six months of courtship, were duly married. I believe they had a baby boy born to them shortly thereafter; and I think the offspring’s name was Nevetsecnuac.”

INGRIT (ANORA) AND 7TH PRINCE SHON ALRIC THERRAN VALAMIR  (32)

This revelation had shocked Fradel (Nevetsecnuac) to the core; nevertheless, he had competently and most remarkably masked this from Dwengzur. The oblivious immortal, therefore, had nonstop (ceaseless) continued with his narration.  “The funny thing, the spell that Zandar Kuntzu had placed on her had remained intact in all that time, and so she never knew of her inherent powers, that could have actually saved her and so many others.”

“But I am getting way ahead of myself.  Now let me tell you bit about the more interesting life of the twin male offspring of Zandar Kuntzu, Zonar:  His early childhood spent in Korion, was relatively uneventful at first. Zonar, growing up as he did, as a mere mortal boy with three elder siblings and under the loving, tender care of his foster parents, his childhood I venture to guess, had been rather a happy one. His adolescence years (puberty, teenage years) however, contrastingly was rocked by turbulent and harsh circumstances. He suffered, like so many others had, result of Zakhertan Yozdek’s violent and viciously brutal, unremitting, vengeful campaigns against Korion. And after witnessing the gruesome deaths of his foster parents and his three mortal siblings, Zonar swore, at that early age of thirteen, to avenge the wrong done to his family and Country. Filled with human patriotism, he, lying about his age, enlisted in the clandestine army of the King of Korion, and then rapidly rose to, the rank of a General.”

06- ZONAR AS TEENAGER

“At the time I was left on my own to hunt for Zonar, as Aegeus had ordered Sthetor, pronto, back to the mountain.  Years later and fortuitously for me, the protective spell that had all that time concealed Zonar’s whereabouts, for an inexplicable (enigmatic) reason, was suddenly lifted the instant Zonar set foot in Wenjenkun. Subsequently of course, the rest of his innate special powers gradually manifested (re-emerged), along with vague recollections about his Immortal mother and father. Self-taught, each time he (utilized) implemented those powers, including those encounters with you Fradel Rurik Korvald (Nevetsecnuac), he had unknowingly however, had left behind a traceable imprint, which then, easily got picked up by yours truly. Accurately predicting Zonar’s latest aim and so, strategically well in advance positioned in Channing, with due persistence and implanted suggestions, I had even convinced Zakhertan Yozdek to leave the handling of the matter entirely to me. Moreover, armed with certain knowledge Zonar had lacked, from this vantage point (advantageous position) when Zonar had little or no means of escape, I was finally able to confront him and rid the world of this blight.”

According to Dwengzur, with the elimination of Zonar, now all was set right in the world. Zonar deemed culpable (guilty) for violating their most sacred rules, his attempting to change the destiny of the mortal world, had righteously afforded Dwengzur, the moral justification to end Zonar’s existence. In his admission to Fradel (Nevetsecnuac), Dwengzur had used this reasoning, for his protracted enjoyment concerning the chase and his gloat over its successful conclusion, terming it, “the roach had been squashed (under my foot) and its hollow (corpse) shell so fittingly, burned to a crisp.”

But Dwengzur's cold-blooded recounting of Zonar's (the once mighty warrior’s) death had instead, both grieved and infuriated Nevetsecnuac. The image of that wretched, scorched corpse hanging from the gibbet in the Square, even before Nevetsecnuac had learning that it was his uncle, had all along persisted in haunting Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac’s) thoughts; to have Dwengzur now show no remorse, instead, to wallow in self-satisfaction, made Nevetsecnuac, livid.

07 - FRADEL (NEVETSECNUAC) GOADS DWENGZUR

Nevetsecnuac with his iron-will nevertheless, contained his bursting retort and furthermore, composed his thoughts into a series of random images to trick Dwengzur into revealing, at least in part, the events of that singular combat between the two Immortals. Using the Immortal’s prejudices against humans, Nevetsecnuac hence, played him.

Dwengzur had felt especially wily (clever) portraying the scene in such a dramatic fashion, to draw Fradel’s intense interest; but the scholar not only did not respond in anticipated fashion, but he had furthermore, yawned, affronting Dwengzur’s bloated pride.

Dwengzur tricked by Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac”s) pitched bait (angled lure), rose impatiently and growled:  "Here, I'll show you exactly what had happened so your feeble mind can comprehend (grasp) the true wonder of it."

 

 

(END OF SECTION 4)

 

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LEGEND OF NEVETSECNUAC – THE RENEGADE IMMORTAL – SECTION 3

 

Dwengzur could not veil his mounting irritation since he had expected to, long before this, ferret out the answers he sought and, begone from this cursed den of loathed humans. He swigged (quaffed) some more wine then, with forced congeniality, asked aloud. "Now, perhaps, you will oblige me with an answer to a rather trivial concern of mine." "You were, of course, aware of Zonar’s mission in your country?"  He paused to receive Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) simple nod, before continuing.

Truth be told, Nevetsecnuac had only a vague and unsubstantiated notion, which he had formulated, from Zonar's parting words: “Even if I fail, I will not fail.”

"Then how is it possible that your friendship could take root? I fail to understand your heart's generosity. It does not support…" Dwengzur paused then shook his head. "After all, Zonar sought to beget (effect) the utter ruin (destruction) of Wenjenkun." 

Nevetsecnuac's encapsulated vague reaction however, robbed Dwengzur, still, of any resolution.

01- FRADED (NEVETSECNUAC ) FACING DWNGZUR'S SCRUTINY

 “On the brink of death his thoughts were of you.” Dwengzur persisted with his measured natter (tone). “You alone made a singular difference to him. Why? How did you manage to alter his views, considering the deep-seated lifelong contempt he felt for your Country and all its citizens? Even more incredible, I say, since the General bore a sustained grudge against Wenjenkun, Zakhertan Yozdek and the former Monarch, Zuronghan Alric Therran Valamir.  He took to heart the atrocities; the rampant genocide committed against the hapless citizens of Korion."  The Immortal shook his head grimly and looked away, as if lost for words. "Granted," after a spell, he conceded thoughtfully, " at the time Field Marshall Zakhertan Yozdek had acted on his own initiative, not on the orders of his Monarch, to gratify a personal vendetta, he bore against Korion's Sovereign. Still, that does not excuse the incompetency of Wenjenkun's past ruler. He bears some of the responsibility for his lack of action and, he should be, justly held accountable by History." 

The lack of reaction from Fradel Rurik Korvald was, again, unexpected and bit infuriating. Despite his exasperation this unique individual was beginning to interest him. Then suddenly Dwengzur caught the inkling of a dilemma in Fradel's thoughts.

“What was that; you regret leaving behind the brush…. A writing implements?” but the Immortal could not be certain of the specifics. Encouraged, yet still baffled, Dwengzur pushed to get results.

Nevetsecnuac, suspecting Dwengzur's underhanded motive, was determined to gage (measure, gauge) the limits of the Immortal's patience and deficiencies (shortcomings, limitations). Furthermore, he strongly resented Dwengzur's arrogant, supercilious, deceitful manner but, more specifically, Nevetsecnuac despised him for killing a fine, loyal warrior like Zonar. Despite all the differences, Nevetsecnuac felt that Zonar and he had much in common. Set upon the same course, an unlikely alliance and a friendship of sorts had developed after their number of encounters. Now, as warrior soulmates, Nevetsecnuac felt obligated to at least, extract measure of satisfaction from Dwengzur, he owed Zonar that much.

Fixing his bold gaze on Dwengzur, Nevetsecnuac now framed his thoughts boldly, sarcastically, “Since your scorn for mankind, sir, is all too evident, why, then, did you betray your own kinsman to appease the villain Zakhertan Yozdek and his unworthy lot?”

Dwengzur stirred as he caught the thought-projection. “How you flatter yourselves! What unworthy creatures you all are, totally beneath my contempt!”  He scoffed inwardly.

“As if the sun rises and sets, the moon, stars, and galaxies all turn in the Heavens solely for the benefit of your puny race! Why should I dispense any effort, spend any emotion at all for your kind? Hah! Do you really believe that I care one way or another whether Zakhertan Yozdek or you, Fradel Rurik Korvald, live or die? Do you think I care whether your inconsequential nation suffers or perishes in the forthcoming wars?”

02- DWENGZUR

But checking his temper, Dwengzur responded coolly (calmly) and sternly, instead. "But you were already given your answer in the foothills, although in a most abstract form, when you’ve eaves-dropped on Commander Zhadol and Lieutenant Yennic at Cyprecox Pass." 

Dwengzur grimaced wryly, noting Fradel Rurik Korvald’s purposeful flinch, Nevetsecnuac having allowed him to discern just that bit.

"Fact is, it is unconscionable and quite irresponsible for us to allow ourselves to intercede in, the natural progression of civilization of any undeveloped species. The least knowledge we possess, if it were to be prematurely unleashed on your primitive culture, could foster dire consequences and detrimental disruptions. Especially when combined with your race's warmongering ways. Zonar presented such a threat to your race and so it was for the good of humankind that he was terminated; you should be on your knees and thanking me for this.”

Instantly Dwengzur picked up Fradel’s (Nevetsecnuac's) next deliberately unspoken query and baffled (perplexed), he shook his head. “You are such a curious lot; even when death is staring you in the face or your life hangs in the balance, you still stubbornly, crave to learn about matters that should not concern you.”

After few minutes of deliberation however, Dwengzur nodded in assent. "All right, so you wish to know more about Zonar’s origin; frankly, I see no reason this should be kept confidential,” but withheld the words, “from one who’s fated to die soon."  Dwengzur had hoped of course, to soften or sway Fradel, with an intriguing, amorous anecdote; after all, didn’t all mortals like a relevant (appropriate) love story, especially one based on facts?

“Hundred years ago, at a typical Divination Ceremony where, each new generation at the age of ten (earth years) was evaluated, His Eminence Olavingemar the Most Supreme Elder of Karn Race, had read the ominous prediction that, the child Tekubzan was unfortunately, the carrier of a seed that would be the harbinger of the Race of Karn’s utter obliteration.”

03- DIVINATION CEREMONY (ELDERS OF KARN)

 To prevent this from ever happening, by a majority vote, she was in a fortnight, condemned to death. She was to be, like vermin, promptly exterminated. His Eminence Olavigemar, who also happed to be her father, however, privately re-consulted the Heavens and given an option, an alternative to the execution, she was instead, doomed to a much crueler fate: being imprisoned for life, behind an impenetrable, a one peace of solid rock at the farthest point and at the deepest recesses of the Cave. There she was destined to live, the rest of her long life, in solitary confinement and in pitch darkness, behind the solid rock wall that looked to be a natural part of the cave. Thickness of it muted all sound. At least, her father had though, she would be alive!  Zandar and Tekubzan however, were destined to meet.”

“Good, I have his full interest now.”  Dwengzur took another sip of wine first, then in leisurely manner recounted (narrated) how Zonar Kuntzu’s father, Chando, also from the race of Karn, later known as Zandar Kuntzu, at the earth years of 20, possessing a curious, explorative nature, had once secretly ventured into the forbidden depths of the gigantic cavern;  where which, due to prior, once in a millennia seismic event, a fissure had occurred on the solid wall that had for (ten) decades imprisoned  behind it, a fair maiden, most enchanting creature born to race of Karn. 

“It so happened that the monstrous seismic event this time had created a crack in that solid rock wall. Chando (Zandar Kuntzu), chancing on this, had drawn near to examine it further. Now because he had an unusual and super-human hearing, he had detected the slight sound behind it. His curiosity aroused, he therefore secretly from then on, stole to the sight and began to forcefully enlarge the crack, to discover whatever, whoever it was, behind it. When the opening was large enough for him to peer in, he held up the light to it, and to his great surprise, discovered a beautiful damsel imprisoned beyond it. The immortal girl, Tekubzan, had of course, aged slowly and was now in earth years, in her mid-twenties.” 

“Chando worked diligently for months till eventually he could get through the opening to the other side. The beautiful creature in tattered clothing was frightened at first and besides, she had forgotten how to interact (relate) or more specifically, express herself by way of vernacular. But no words were necessary as he pitied her, and same time, was drawn to her. From then on, whenever he could, he stole away and visited her. They for a time used a made-up-sign-language for communication. Gradually, having gained her confidence, the two grew quite close. She recouped (recovered) her vernacular ability by this time and was able to tell him, her name (Tekubzan), and why she had been so unjustly, by the Elders of Karn, imprisoned all this time.”

04- TEKUBZAN AND CHANDO (ZONAR'S PARENTS)

“They spend two more blissful (delightful) months together and eventually fell deeply in love. His innate nature (character)being a rebel, Chando would not shy away from most taboos; but he was nevertheless reluctant to be too intimate with her, knowing that if he did, in consequence he might impregnate her. When the desire became too great to resist, thinking he had taken apt precautions, the two shared a most heavenly and cherished time together. Afterwards, he had given her his solemn word that he would return very soon and then, reluctantly left her.”

05- TEKUBZAN AND CHANDO

“But unforeseen circumstances prevented him for an exceptionally long time from re-visiting Tekubzan. When he finally could get away, he rushed to the forbidden place to present her the precious gifts and ask her to be his mate forever. He had decided also to rescue her from her prison and after the two had made good their escape from the mountain, they would live happily and in secret, forever in the mortal realm, preferably, in the most remote corner of the world. Unfortunately, what greeted him was a hart-wrenching tragedy.”

“Tekubzan was no where to be seen. Then he saw the signs of an intrusion and the evidence of grand scale devastation which revealed that there had been a spectacular battle, a dire struggle there, obviously, between Tekubzan and the evil perpetrator. In the end she had perished in the fire, as her charred remains had been found there in a heap. The offender, after the evil deed, had unfortunately clear gotten away, as there had been no residue or remains of him, left behind.”

06- THE CULPRIT

“She had successfully hidden her newborn twins (boy and girl) well before the fight however and even had managed to transfer great deal of her powers to the babies, whom she had named Zonar and Arnora (girl twin), for no harm had come to the infants. Unfortunately, this must have left her vulnerable, and far less able to thwart (offset, counter) the perpetrator’s assaults. You can well imagine Chando’s frustration, his ire (rage, fury), self-blame, then ultimately, his inconsolable grief, to have arrived there too late and well after it had been all over. Intrepid Tekubzan, anticipating his return had nevertheless managed to leave a (telepathic) message to him, therefore, drying up his tears and, following her instructions, he discovered the unharmed, hidden twins, his son, Zonar and daughter Arnora. And that’s how Zonar and Arnora had come into the world. For a long time, Chando stared at these little, precious beings who were his son and daughter! The babies, not identical twins, Zonar had his mother’s blazing red hair, while Arnora had Chando’s white blond hair; nevertheless, Zonar had his (Chando’s) eyes, but fortunately, the girl had his beloved’s nose and chin.” Chando could not take his eyes off his precious, poor, orphaned infants, which had waited for him, only heaven knows how long. They had lived because she had, after severing the umbilical cords, transferred major part of her life force to them. And then used still more of her power to conceal them. Chando shedding more tears, lovingly cradled his infant boy and girl in his arms and rocked them. After a long spell, eventually, reason took hold. He went over to the pile of ashes (which were her remains) and reverently bowed to his beloved and then remaining kneeling, said his prayers; to give her at least, some solace in afterlife. Chando, then desisting the new surging flood of tears, in resolute tone articulated (voiced) his solemn vow to take exceptionally diligent care of the twins.”

07- CHANDO MAKES SOLEMN WOW TO TEKUBZAN'S SPIRIT

“Tekubzan had purposely not disclosed the culprit’s identity that had attacked her and ultimately taken her life, for either she did not know the assailant or, that he was far too powerful; and she knowing Zandar would seek revenge and fearing for his safety, sought to protect him.”

“Zandar, remaining on his knees, however, in a resounding voice next had avowed: He would search Heaven and Earth to one day redress this grave injustice and duly avenge her.”

“Afterwards, for she’d also warned him that the evil perpetrator had been bent on destroying him and their offsprings, therefore, not to linger on and without delay fly to safety- Chando (Zandar Kuntzu), though reluctantly, had absconded the mountain along with Zonar and Arnora and permanently disappeared somewhere in the vast mortal world of Humans.”

 

(END OF SECTION 3)

 

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