Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 63

 

63.

 

Friar Lawrence took detours before he went to the basilica. He was unsure but felt that he was being watched. He made his visits and sneaked out the rear to avoid any detections. Soon, he met the Chorbaji there and handed over the basket of food and drinks. He saw the Wallachian was seated alone at the side, while the young Capulet was by himself at the rear.

“Chorbaji, can we let the young lad off? He knows nothing.” The friar asked. He feared for the safety of the lad.

“The lad is a Capulet, and more to that, he is wanted by the authorities. If I let him go, he may tell on us if he gets caught.” Chorbaji Tarmuk replied. “I know you are concerned about him, but it has to be done.”

“Young Romeo … is innocent. I can vouch for him. I will take him back to see his father, and he will not say a word on you or the… Wallachian. It may be of good tidings that we turned him over to the lord there. He may help you further.”

“A good point, Lamin. But for now, I need to rest. I will advise you later.’ Chorbaji Tarmuk stepped away. The friar approached the Wallachian.

“Vlad Tepes, I am Friar Lawrence.” The friar stood before the seated Wallachian. “I……”

“An unusual rank for one who serves the Chorbaji.” Vlad looked at the other. “Are you…”

“I am a friar, or I assume I am. My real name is Lamin, and I was of the Janissary until my defection to be with my love in Wallachia. It was a good life until you had them killed, for they were on the wrong side of the boyars. I held no love for you, Wallachian.”

“Neither from me. I am or was the Voivode then. I had to bring order to minethen. I held no regret for my act then.” Vlad Tepes explained. “We were at war.”

“Unfortunately, and for me, I was recruited back to the Janissary and became a ……. friar.” 

“A noble rank perhaps, and unseen by others.” Vlad smiled. “Why are you having this conversation?”

“I …… I came to ask you to release the lad. He is not involved in this battle.” Friar Lawrence pressed forth his intention. “Romeo is to see his love soon, or she may……”

“And I am not his captor. The Chorbaji is the one who held him here.” Vlad smiled. “I am also torn from my family. We are both similar in fate.”

“Perhaps you could…….”

“If I could, I would have done so.” Vlad looked at the friar. “I am not a bad person. I valued love more so when it comes to family. You must understand me. What I did before was during the year. I killed many, but I also killed their dependents, for I was not to see them suffer alone.”

“You meant remove the roots of the enemies so that none may rise against you.” Friar Lawrence glared at the Wallachian. “As you did to mine.”

“It was needed.” Vlad nodded. “It was war.”

“Bastard! I ought to kill you here.” Friar Lawrence cursed out.

“But you will not. For you are not at war. Go now, friar. I need to rest.”

Rest was far from the mind of Lord Gencio Capulet. He had informed us that Vlad Tepes had left the house without his family.

“The Wallachian left with the Turks. We are searching the city.” The servant told the lord. “His lady and family remain there.”

“Find him.” Lord Gencio Capulet told the servant. It was then Lady Sofia barged in.

“Gencio, Lorenzo … he is leaving us.” Lady Sofia cried out. She handed over the letter given to her by the servant. “He had it delivered to me today.”

“Madness! What has happened to our family? Romeo is missing, and now Lorenzo too.” Lord Gencio Capulet roared out. “Tybalt, Benvolio, and now Lorenzo. I cannot find Reynard either.”

“Gencio, please find Lorenzo. I cannot lose another son.” Lady Sofia pleaded.

“I will find …… him. I will need to see Dante.” Lord Gencio Capulet took leave of the house. At that moment, Lord Dante Montague was met by Count Paris at his home.

“My lord, I had come on another matter.” Count Paris smiled at the other seated at the library. Lord Dante Montague held his stare at the other.

“One of…the main reasons I came to Genoa…when I attended the ball held in honour of your daughter, Lady Juliet….”

“Please state your call, Count Paris. I am a busy man.” Lord Dante Montague looked at the drawer that held the case that belonged to Vlad Tepes.

“Obviously…. I was to ask you for the …hand of your daughter, Juliet Montague.” Count Paris looked at the lord. “I am… I will be a good man towards her.”

“The hell you will.” Juliet Montague stormed in. She was followed by her mother, Lady Angeline. “Father, I will not wed this……. Man.”

“Juliet ……” Count Paris was stunned by the outburst.

“Juliet Montague, you will return to your chamber and remain there.” Lord Dante Montague roared out. The lady referred to refused to leave.

“I will not wed this man. If I am forced, I will rather…die.” Juliet called out. Her nurse also rushed in and comforted the lady.

“Count Paris, this may not be the time to discuss this.” Lady Angeline looked from her daughter to the count. “Please allow us time to reply.”

“As you wish, my lady. I will leave now.” Count Paris was embarrassed and took leave. Lord Dante Montague looked at his errant daughter.

“You have embarrassed my guest. A distinguished one. You will ……” Lord Dante Montague was cut off by his daughter.

“I will wed no one but Romeo Capulet.” Juliet cried out in anger. “Stop me and…you may be buried in the ground.”

Juliet stormed off in anger. Lord Dante Montague looked to his lover, and she sighed.

“You could have ……” Lady Angeline sighed again. “You know your daughter is headstrong.”

“I ……. I did not know till then. The imbecile asked me and then raised that issue, and she came in like a banshee.” Lord Dante Montague sighed. “I have enough issues to contend with, and now this has to happen.”

“Let me talk to her.” Lady Angeline looked at the distraught father. “And for you, I will suggest that you give back the case to Vlad Tepes. It has brought us so many issues.”

Lord Dante Montague looked towards the drawer while Lady Angeline walked off.

Count Paris took the walk from the Montague’s house and was met by Lord Gencio Capulet. The carriage drew alongside, and he was offered a ride.

“Had a bad day, huh?”

“Yes ……. And no. Why are you here, Lord Gencio Capulet?’

“I was called by the prince to meet him, and we happened to ride by.” Lord Gencio Capulet smiled. “I do not enjoy your company, but seeing you in the rush walking from the house, I presumed you had a bad meeting there.”

“Yes, it was. I was to propose to Lady Juliet through her father, but the lady rejected me outright. She claimed to have fallen in love with your son, Romeo Capulet.” Count Paris poured out his grief.

“My son, Romeo? Impossible. I will never allow that. The Capulets and Montagues cannot be bound by marriage. I forbid it.”

“Interesting. Then I am still free to pursue her.” Count Paris smiled. “Why do you wish to see the prince?”

“Well, I will not know until I see him. He called for a meeting. Were you not informed?”

“At times, I am a lackey to him. He tells me what he thinks I ought to know. He treats everyone under him the same.” Count Paris sighed. “We are … his extended family, I guess. To obey and not to question. The price of being loyal.”

Loyalty at times can be denied.

“Why was I not informed?” Juliet Montague was in tears. “What do they take me for? A trade of convenience?”

“I am sure it is a misunderstanding.” The nurse Angelica smoothens the bed covers with one eye on the care of hers. “I am sure the Lord will tell you soon, or……”

“Angelica, you had choices. Why can I not have that too?” Juliet burst out in tears.

“I am not a member of the Montague family. I cannot be of that.” Angelica sighed. She then heard the call.

“Angelica, please leave us.” Lady Angeline stepped into the chamber. The nurse took her leave, and the mother approached the daughter.

“I am sure your father will……”

“If he does for that pompous …… Count, I would rather die.” Juliet cried out. “Why will he not accept Romeo?”

“My darling, the… the Capulets and us are two… differing clans. We… they held a feud long before you were born. They may not come to terms with it now, but one day, they may. Till then, we must draw a boundary with them.”

“Mother, I love Romeo, and he loves me. Why can we not be together?” Juliet looked to her mother. “You wedded……”

“It is complicated. I …….” Lady Angeline looked to the garden outside. “We are……”

“You loved Father, right?” Juliet asked.

“Yes, I do, but then…”

“Aunt Juliette was his first love. I knew. She was married to the man in the aisles, and he then….”

“Yes, he loved your aunt, but she was married to another. I was the next in line, I guess.” Lady Angeline smiled. “It was not perfect, but … it was arranged by your grandmother. As she was then in her time, and her mother before that. We, the ladies, have little to say but obey.”

“I will not. I would rather die.” Juliet pulled away from her mother. “I will not marry whoever he chooses or even you.”

“Juliet Montague, you will not disobey your family wishes.” Lady Angeline’s words were not heard by the younger lady, who stormed off.

“We are all at the mercy of the family’s name.” Lady Angeline sighed.

 

 

 

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 62

 

62.

 

“Portia Belmont, you cannot be serious. I love you.’ Bassanio looked at the lady seated across from him. They left the court and convened at the premises of Enrico Moet. The ‘juri’ was seated at his place behind the wide desk, with the lady facing him, and Bassanio was offered the couch. Nerissa was standing next to the lady there.

“You heard me right. I am calling off the engagement.” Portia looked across to Bassanio. “I have a change of mind on the matter.”

“You defended me there at court.”

“Yes, I did, but it was a… friendship arrangement. I do value you as a friend and felt that I could offer you a better defence. I think I did.”

“Why, Ms. Belmont, did you do that? You have a ‘juri,’ and we agreed for me to act.” Enrico asked.

“I had a change of mind.” Portia replied. “I thought it over and decided then. I am more familiar with the rules of trade than you. I…….”

“You seem to have a lot of changes to your mind.” Bassanio interjected.

“Yes, bitches like me changed their minds often.” Portia looked at Enrico, who was stunned then. “I am here to pay you, Enrico, for your services, and also to put on paper the dissolution of my engagement to one named Andre Bassanio Tito.”

“I am sorry I called you a bitch. I thought you were going to kill me.” Bassanio pleaded. “I was in pain.”

“My mind is made up.” Portia looked at the ‘jury.’

“You cannot do that. You will ……. Make your father despair in his ……” Bassanio called out.

“You do not know my father and me. I can call off the engagement. You hold nothing, nor do I hold any towards you.” Portia looked at Enrico. “Be a darling, and write it down. I want it to be sent to the papers by morning.”

“Who is it, Portia? The baron or the slob?’ Bassanio called out. “I am destroyed if you leave me.”

“Mr. Enrico, the matter is decided. Please act, and here are your fees.” With that, Portia took leave of the chamber and mounted the carriage arranged for her.

“Portia, are you sure?” Nerissa asked.

“Yes, I am. Bassanio has shown himself to be less of a man than I thought he would be. I am to find another man who will stand up for me.” Portia said. “Let the social circles say things about me, but I am leaving Genoa soon. I am to go to... Spain or even to the isles. Will you join me, Nerissa?”

“I am without Gratiano. Yes, I will.”

The idea to leave Genoa was the last thing on the mind of several persons.

“I am not leaving Genoa until we find the jewels.” Prince Escalus had invited those gathered there to meet him at the home of Lord Schmidt Helmut. There was Count Paris, Magistrate Javier, and the few mercenaries he had hired in the absence of Vuk Brankovic.

“Find out who this Turk named Chorbaji Tarmuk is.” Prince Escalus gave the first order. “He may know of the jewels.”

“I was informed that he protects Vlad Tepes here in the city.” Count Paris interjected. “Our attempt to kill the man was……”

“Delayed because I did not give the order.” Prince Escalus cut in. “I knew of Vlad Tepes here. Benvolio told me that. I delayed the action, for the Wallachian is… unknown to his involvement with whoever that protects him here. It could ripple the outcome to the king, who himself has held back his war with the Ottomans.”

“However, if he holds the jewels, then he is to be dealt.” Prince Escalus looked at the magistrate. “Tell me what we can do in your city… legally.”

“I …… I could make an order to arrest the Turks, and if the Wallachian is there, he will be dealt with together.” Magistrate Javier spoke out.

“With Benvolio missing, and now I was told that Reynard too. He was last seen at the court. He was seen leaving with a trader named Antonio Meli. I suspect they shared the same fate.” Count Paris said. “We cannot wait. We must act fast.”

“Who is Antonio Meli?” Prince Escalus asked.

“Antonio Meli is the friend of Andre Bassanio Tito who assisted in the arrangement of the loan. He is also the good friend of Lord Gencio Capulet.” Magistrate Javier replied. “I will have my officers find him.”

“Of what now with Bassanio? Is he off the hook now that he has won the case? He may know of the jewels but did not disclose it.” Count Paris raised the suspicion there.

“Too many loose ends here. We need to focus on the Turk. He is the final piece to fit all the others.” Prince Escalus looked at the gathered.

The scene across the city was more intense with the friar with the Montague’s lady. They were at the cottage owned by Lorenzo.

“Juliet, what I am asking of you may be dangerous. If you … I cannot tell you for sure Romeo will come … if at all.” Friar Lawrence sighed. “He may be……”

“Is he ……. Do you know something about him?” Juliet asked. “I need to know.”

“No, I am not, but I will find him.” The friar replied. “For now, you must wait. Give me till nightfall, and then you may take the potion to sleep. Not before then, please.”

At the home of Shylock, Jessica waited for her parents. They arrived and saw her. Leah was joyful to see her daughter.

“How was the court hearing?” Jessica asked.

“We lost. Or rather, we did not press on the compensation.” Shylock replied. “Portia Belmont appeared for her lover, and she presented an interesting argument.”

“Your father caved in on the argument.” Leah sighed. “He was……”

“Compassionate? Perhaps, but I am ……” Shylock snapped back. “You did not help at all.”

“I …… Could I have help?” Leah was upset. “I……”

“My parents, please. I am here to tell you something else.” Jessica cut in. “Please be seated.”

Jessica then motioned to Lorenzo to appear.

“I am leaving with …… Lorenzo for Spain.” Jessica looked at the elder folks. “We decided to leave it all.”

“You cannot.” Shylock found his voice to tell Jessica. “You are our only child. And he is …….”

“The bastard son of Lord Gencio Capulet, or so I was told.” Lorenzo said. “My real name is …….”

“Karl Levi Tov.” The voice belonged to Abram Tov. He had appeared at the home of Shylock Judas. “You are my son.”

“Who are you?” Lorenzo asked. “I may have seen you before.”

“I am Abram Tov. I worked for the Montagues. I am your father. Your mother is Rachel Mencies. She must have given you the amulet you wore around your neck.”

Lorenzo touched the amulet there on his chest.

“I have searched for you and your aunt, but there were no traces of either of you. It was only recently that I found out, but you are the care of the Capulet. I could not just walk in and ……”

“Mother… Aunt Wendy never says. She told you, “Leave me to her.”

“It was not true. I was away at ……. War, and when I returned, Wendy was not found. I had searched but to no avail.” Abram sighed. “Now I have found you.”

“And I must leave.” Lorenzo looked at the man who claimed to be his father. “I must leave with Jessica. We are to sail away. I came back to ask for permission.”

“I forbid ……” Shylock was cut off by Leah.

“Go, my child. Go with him.” Leah held out her arms towards Jessica. “You deserve a new life.’

“Leah, how could ……” Shylock stared at his lover. “She is ……”

“She will be happier together with the man she loves. As I did then.” Leah looked back. “We cannot stop her from being happy.”

“Thank you, Mother.” Jessica hugged her mother. Abram approached his son.

“Take care of her. And yourself. I will find you in Spain.” Abram told his son. “I do not have much with me.”

“Shylock, can I borrow from you some ducats for my son?” Abram looked at the other. “I can pay you back.”

“I ……” Shylock was then lost for words. It was Leah who grabbed the bag of ducats and handed it to Jessica.

“Take these. And leave now. Send words when you are in Spain.” Leah smiled at her daughter. She then looked at Lorenzo. “Tov, take care of her.”

“When are you sailing?” Abram asked.

“The Jamaica left, but we booked on another. The Demetus. We will sail tonight.”

 

 

 

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 61

 

61.

 

Portia Belmont retrieved her notes, while Enrico, her supportive ‘jury,’ sat back with a sigh of relief. The man looked at the lady and shook his head.

“It is unbelievable, your works. Whatever happened to our strategy here?”

“Well, Enrico. I won, and that is what matters.” Portia smiled.

“You tame the lion in the cage with your works on the blood and the pound of flesh, yet you made it roar when you submitted on the concept of mercy. Why?”

Portia recalled her last move, when she approached Bassanio, who was in fright that the lady he claimed to love was ready to slice him then. She grabbed the knife and looked at the man lying there.

“I will ……” Portia was interrupted by the call. She turned and looked at Shylock.

“I will withdraw my claim on the compensation. I will ……” Shylock turned to the magistrate. “I will request an adjournment here. I will take on the wares that were confiscated and deal with them.”

“Why then, Mr. Judas?” Magistrate Javier looked at the other. “Are you ……”

“Mercy, or racham in my language, says that God’s ‘mercies,’ or rachamav, ‘never come to an end.’” But what exactly is mercy? Is it God’s feeling of compassion or pity toward people? Does it denote a divine willingness to relent from punishment?” Shylock sighed. “I called for ‘racham.’”

“Ms. Belmont presented an interesting argument. If I am to enforce my claim, I may risk killing Bassanio, for blood will be shed. I am then without mercy to a living person, for my greed for wealth made me take another life. We are from one’s mother’s womb; ‘rechen,’ which sounded almost the same as ‘racham,’ as you may have been told, is mercy. Can I forego mercy by endangering the person who was from the womb of the mother?”

“I was a soldier once, in my younger days, bearing the weapons to take another life, as I was told to do so, but I was not one. I regretted ever having to wound or kill anyone. I did it out of spite; it was my call. I was given a spear to be returned to its owner’s mother to tell her he was not coming back. I was to kill him with that spear.”

“I did not.”

“I kept the spear and kept it with me till … it was to remind me that I had … Was it mercy to leave the other dying or to plunge the spear to end the pain? I do not know. But I know today, I cannot be merciless and have another killed for a…… pound of flesh. I give mercy today. Let him live.”

Shylock bowed to the magistrate and then left the court.

“It looked like you won, Ms. Belmont.” Magistrate Javier looked at her.

“I object, Magistrate. Andre Bassanio Tito must disclose the whereabouts of the Empress Jewels.” It was Prince Escalus.

“I know nothing of it.” Bassanio shouted out. “I was told that it was a shipment of Radu’s wares, and it included his personal belongings. I assumed it included the Empress Jewels, but I have not seen it. All I wanted to do was bring the shipment to Genoa and hand it over to the Ottoman’s commander and be paid handsomely.”

“What is his name?” "Price?" Escalus asked.

“Chorbaji Tarmuk. It was all I knew. I was short of coins and got Antonio Meli to assist. With the dues paid by the Ottoman, I was to clear my debts.” Bassanio sighed. “It was never my doing, but Antonio and Gratiano, whom I trusted, had created the tale of the jewels being with me.”

“Ask them. I know nothing.” Bassanio shouted out.

“You lied.” Prince Escalus was upset. “I will……”

“Prince Escalus, may you please restrain yourself. This is my court.” The Chief Magistrate intervened. “I will not tolerate such accusations.”

“You will hear of it from the King.” Prince Escalus stared at the Chief Magistrate.

“So be it. And leave now.” The chief magistrate motioned to the prince. The latter turned to leave with Count Paris.

In the gallery, Antonio Meli slipped away from the gathered. He was confronted by Reynard, who had a dagger at the other’s chest.

“Move with me or die here.”

“What, Empress Jewels?” The Chief Magistrate roared out. “Someone explain to me. I got a circus here to perform today.”

It was the same at the basilica when Romeo Capulet looked at the Chorbaji.

“Why am I here? I know nothing of …… I am not involved with any of you.”

“Young lad, you are Romeo Capulet, and, in some ways, you are involved with us. You are the son of Lord Gencio Capulet….”

“My father will find you, and then there will be retributions that ……” Romeo struggled in his bonds.

“Do not threaten me, young pup. I am a warrior with many battles, and more have been killed by my sword. I am a Chorbaji of the Ottoman army. However, here I am a private citizen to protect a… friend.” Chorbaji Tarmuk looked to the rear of the basilica. “If you are to fear anyone, that should be the man resting at the rear. He is Vlad Tepes, or you may have known him as the Impaler. He … should I say, impales his enemies on the stakes.”

“Vlad Tepes? The Impaler? I heard of him, but… what has he to do with me?” Romeo asked.

“Nothing. It's just that you are in the wrong place at the wrong time. However, your exploits are widely spoken. You are running from the authorities.”

“I am not. I am waiting for my father’s return.” Romeo said. “He will help me.”

“Of course he will. You are his son. Do you know that Lord Gencio Capulet is back? And more to it, he is also helping Vlad Tepes here?”

“It cannot be. Why would my father help a…… killer?” Romeo was upset. It was not the image that he envisages of his father.

“Well. it may have to do with the Empress Jewels.” Chorbaji Tarmuk moved the topic to that. “Your father wants the jewels.”

“Empress Jewels? Father has spoken of it, but he told me it was given to the Ottomans. Why here now?”

“Something which you may never know, young lad. It is best that you do not know the details. But for now, you are my hostage. We have many enemies hunting us, and with you here, we can have leverage here. I am outnumbered.”

“My father will kill you.” Romeo called out.

“It may be that way, but we have few options.” Chorbaji looked at the lad. “Tell me, Romeo Capulet. Have you ever fought in battle?”

“No, I am not a soldier. My father, his cousins, and the others have done so. Why do you ask?”

“Do you know why we fought in battles? It was to win. We defeat our enemy and win. But it can be that we get defeated too. We may die or be wounded, or retreat in shame, but why did we do that? For glory? Sometimes, but most times, we are tasked to get something. A city or the leader of the enemy, or maybe… a gift like a jewel.”

“For now, the task here is the Empress Jewels. In this city alone, we have many who want it. Your father, Prince Escalus, and Count Paris, and, to my knowledge, even the magistrate are involved. Almost everyone wants those jewels.”

“Who has the jewels?” Romeo asked.

“I ……” Chorbaji Tarmuk held back his words. “I am unsure. But they assumed that man there had it. For that, his life is endangered, and now yours.”

When everyone was gathering to look at Bassanio, no one hardly noticed Antonio leaving the court with Reynard. The duo took the walk to the nearby bridge and then went underneath it to talk.

“Antonio Meli, do you know who I am?” Reynard asked, holding the dagger leveled at the other.

“I have seen you before with Lord Gencio Capulet. You are named …….”

“Reynard.” The Capulet guard said. “Now tell me what you knew of the Empress Jewels.”

“I do not ……” Antonio Meli gasped when he saw the other gagged after being stabbed from the rear. Reynard turned and saw it was Abram who stabbed him.

“You……”

“Die, Capulet.” Abram pulled the dagger out before pushing the other into the riverbank. He then looked at the trader.

“One word of this, and you will end up like him.” Abram looked at the other. “Now go.”

Antonio took to his heels in the other direction, and then Abram turned around suddenly. He found himself facing the friar.

“You are a mysterious man, friar. Not many can sneak up on me.” Abram looked at the friar. “Say your prayers to him. He is dead.”

“Not needed. Only the living need to hear my prayers.” Friar Lawrence smiled. “I came with another issue. I found your son, Abram Tov. He is in Genoa but may leave soon.”

Leaving was not on the mind of the prince then, and he confronted the magistrate personally in the chambers.

“Javier, you served under me once before?” Prince Escalus took his seat at the magistrate’s desk and poured himself a glass of wine. He was accompanied by Count Paris, who had chosen to stand. He had returned to the court and made his way to the magistrate’s chamber.

“I like your chamber, well decorated and filled with many gifts.” Prince Escalus admired the lavish spread in the chamber. “Does the magistrate pay better than an officer’s pay?”

“No, Sire. I am just getting by with it. Most of these items are part of the previous magistrate’s collection. I merely have them here to continue the tradition.”

“No jewels I can see. Are they scarce here in Genoa?” Prince Escalus looked at the magistrate.

“No, Sire. We …… I hardly hold any.” Magistrate Javier replied. “I am ……”

“Surprised to see me here at the hearing. Well, I am keen to know, as you may have known. Where are the Empress Jewels?” Prince Escalus cut the conversation to the issue on hand. “Who has it?”

“I have no idea. I thought it was the trader, but we found nothing. I…….”

“Did you hide it, Javier?” Prince Escalus stared at the other. “You found it and then hid it?”

“No, Sire. I did not. I had checked my officers, and none dared to do it. The trader lied.”

“Who is Chorbaji Tarmuk?” Prince Escalus asked. “I do not like Turks.”

 

 

 

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 60

 60.

 

“Mr. Silva, can you demonstrate to us how you define a pound of meat?” Portia Belmont asked. The court had reconvened with the gallery packed except for the missing two lords, Dante Montague, and Gencio Capulet. Their lovers were present with their servants.

A slab of meat was brought in to the court, having some of the gallery murmuring at the spectacle they were to see. The slab of meat was placed on the table there.

“A fine piece of meat there. Will they be giving it out free later?” One of the gathered there spoke.

“Mr. Silva, you may proceed here.” Portia Belmont looked to the butcher. The latter approached the table and placed next to it the tools of his trade. He inspected the meat and then retrieved the butcher knife to slice the needed portion of meat.

“One pound of meat is here.” The butcher held out the piece of meat. “I sliced it off the belly there. It is the fattest.”

One of the gathered rushed out to puke up the lunch content.

“What is he? A non-meat eater?” The person seated next asked.

“No, it was the pie he took. Told him it was stale.” Another reply.

“Ms. Belmont, tell me what this has to do with the case.” Magistrate Javier looked to the lady.

“In due course, Magistrate. I must draw similarities to the items here. Shylock demanded a pound of flesh, and a comparison was needed to be seen.” Portia did not wait for the rebuttal from the other and then asked the butcher on.

“Mr. Silva, how would you take the pound of flesh off Mr. Bassanio here?” That question drew murmurs from the gathered.

“I have not butchered a …… living person.” Mr. Silva said. “I have done ……”

“In front of you is… another creature. If I claim that, you need to get that pound of flesh. Can you tell me where you will slice it from?” Portia went into specifics. “The belly? Or the shoulders?”

“I… I will say the… thighs.” Mr. Silva uttered. “It may hold the pieces I will need.”

“Wonderful, please proceed.” Portia called out. “Bring Mr. Bassanio to the table.”

“I stand ……” Shylock called out.

“Object? Mr. Judas, you want your pound of flesh, do you not?”

“I… I will stand to him being murdered here.” Shylock replied. “He may die if he…”

“Will he, Mr. Silva?” Portia asked the butcher.

“I ……. Think not. He may not be able to walk, though. But death may be a probability.”

“So, no death. Only disability to walk. Poor man. Please proceed.” Portia Belmont said.

“Your honor, if I……” Mr. Silva looked at the magistrate.

“You will be protected by the Court. Please… do the needed.” Magistrate Javier wanted to see how far the lady’s planned moves went.

“You are mad, Portia. It is me, Bassanio, here. You cannot be …….” Bassanio was carried to the table after the slab of meat was removed. “You are mad.”

“Mr. Silva, please proceed.” Portia instructed the butcher. The latter approached the table and looked at the man who was restrained there. He saw the blood that seeped through the bandages onto the table. He was used to seeing blood on the butcher table.

“There is blood. I need to contain that when ……” The butcher was to explain the act.

“Blood? Did you say blood?” Portia cut in. “Hold it, let’s read the notes again.”

Portia proceeded to read the notes on the case and peruse once more the loan agreement. She then looked at Shylock.

“Nothing was mentioned here of any blood? Were you aware that the pound of flesh comes together with blood in it?”

“I… I would have assumed that it…” Shylock uttered back.

“Assumptions in the trade agreement read as unenforceable terms. Am I correct, Magistrate?” Portia looked at the magistrate. “If one does not state that the payment was to be in ducats or silver, or even copper coins? Then the payout, if not properly stated, will be difficult to value? Or drawn a comparison?”

“I……. The agreement started with Mr. Bassanio’s name. And it shall be his flesh that will be impounded.” Shylock shouted.

“Expressly understood, but was there blood to be included, or what if the blood was spilled; would that be harm to another living person in Genoa? If so, the accused would be punished by forfeiture of properties and banishment from the city. If, however, death occurred, would that also be acceptable by the contractual terms?” Portia looked at Shylock. “Are you prepared for the consequences?”

“Magistrate, if Bassanio were to die here, would it be murder?” Portia asked. The butcher had then stepped back from the table.

“Uh……. Yes, it is the result of the… pound of flesh….” Magistrate Javier was unsure of his words.

“From the defendant, yes. So, Mr. Judas, we are at a standpoint now to have your decision. Do we proceed? If he dies, you could be charged with intent to murder.”

“And no blood to be spilled, Mr. Silva?” Portia looked at the butcher.

“You are all mad! I will not do this.” Mr. Silva stormed out of the court.

“Magistrate, if I may say to this Court to state the mercy of the matter.

“Mercy cannot be imposed by us. As we do not command the rain from the skies to here in the ground during a drought. What is mercy, my lords and ladies? In the book, mercy is defined as God's compassionate, undeserved kindness shown by withholding deserved punishment and acting to relieve suffering, rooted in His loving nature. It blesses the one who gives it and the ones who receive it.”

“Proverbs 28:13—No one who conceals transgressions will prosper, but one who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.”

“It is the most powerful when given by the most powerful people; it looks better on a king than his crown does because it lives in the heart of a king, as it is a quality of God in them. Therefore, for it in kings, who are the closest to God, when he lets mercy temper justice.” Portia looked at Prince Escalus. She was hoping for the prince to intervene there.

“Therefore, Jew, though for you it is justice, think about this: in the pursuit of justice, we will not find salvation.
We all pray for mercy, and that should teach us all to show mercy.” Portia in turn looks to Shylock. “I have spoken to lessen your plea for justice, which, if you choose to follow, will force the sentence against the trader there.”

(Adapted from https://www.stagemilk.com/portia-monologue-act-4-scene-1/)

Portia then approached the table and looked at the knife there.

“A pound of flesh, no blood to be spilled.” Portia took the knife.

“You cannot be doing this.” Bassanio screamed out. “You are a bitch, Portia. I should not have……”

“I am one.” Portia smiled, and then she muttered to herself. “Most of us are. Bitches we are. Welcome to our world.”

Juliet stepped into the friar’s cottage. It was what she recalled; when younger, she used to come there to play with her friends. The previous friar was a fair man who shared with them his garden produce and told them tales. It was the child’s world. It was in the later years that she stopped coming over and was surprised that the current friar was occupied.

“Yes, this was Friar Gento’s home before he offered me shelter and then his home. He was to show me the ways of God, and I continued.” Friar Lawrence offered the lady a seat. “Mind the dust and ……”

Friar Lawrence saw the blood stains on the flooring. He kicked the rug nearby over it.

“It has been years since I was here.” Juliet smiled. “Was Romeo here?”

“Romeo? I doubt it. He was never here before.” Friar Lawrence replied. He rushed into his personal chamber and came up with a few vials. He handed it to Julier.

“There are two types of potions there. The blue ones are for a long sleep with a long waking period.” Friar Lawrence explained. “The yellow potion is for a shorter sleep, but it emulates death. Your heartbeats slow to low, and the body freezes over. But if you combined the two, it is instant death.”

“Why… How did you get these potions?” Juliet asked.

“Well, the previous friar was a man of seclusion, and he was also a healer of sorts. He helped those who sought him for help, and he also understood potions of sorts.” Friar Lawrence explained, but he lied on certain facts. “It was his trade to learn potions of sorts to execute his tasks. Of late, he did devise potions that healed and some to assist those who needed to rest or die peacefully. It was his way to end their sorrows.

“You recalled the ointment I used to apply to you or your friends when they were injured. It was what I was taught.” Friar Lawrence smiled. “These two potions were for the elders who need it. Suffering in pain is a torturous journey, and I assist where I can. It is a mixture of Atropa belladonna, which induced sleep, but the second potion is more deadly. It was for those who chose to end their lives.”

“I will take it then. You will then send words to the others that I am… dead. But where shall I lie? It must be some place … that is memorable to me and always revered by Romeo.”

“Are you mad? If you take the second potion, you will die.” Friar Lawrence looked at the lady.

“Death is desirable to sufferings, friar. I would rather die than be apart from Romeo.” Juliet smiled. “I am in love with him.”

“Is he? Will he be willing to die if you are…dead?”

“Perhaps, but I am not dead yet. I will be in deep sleep when he comes. He will wake me like the Sleeping Beauty lady. I will open my eyes, and there we will see each other.” Juliet smiled. “I will not take the second potion… unneeded.”

“So be it, we must find a proper place for you. Lorenzo’s cottage will do.” Friar Lawrence said. “Can you hold onto your so-called sleep to delay for a few days?”

“Okay. But let us find Romeo first.” Juliet took off for the doorway, followed by the friar. She returned, citing the need to collect her things left behind. Unseen by the friar, Juliet grabbed both potions and then rejoined the friar.

Was it intentional?

At the abandoned monastery, Romeo Capulet was staring at the Turk. The Wallachian had taken to rest at the rear of the basilica after the meals of wine and bread.

“Who are you?”

 

 

 

 

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 59

 

59.

 

“Mr. Judas, if I……” Portia was halted by the other. They are still in the court where the magistrate presides over the case.

“Ms. Belmont, may I ask for your credentials to hold the defence besides the ……. Backing of the other ‘jury’ member here?” Shylock asked.

“Which I will ask back, what is your capacity here? Are you an educated ‘jury’ like my peer here? Or are you a man and hence qualified to do the task here, and I am a lady who should remain at home?” Portia Belmont looked at Shylock and then at the magistrate. “Does gender predetermine their roles?”

“I ……” Shylock was to defend his question, but Portia was to continue.

“For the record, and in the presence of the esteemed traders here who had dealt with my father many times, and of the money lenders here, I stand before you not as a shadow but as an equal partner with my father when we negotiate the terms of trade and financing. Since I was younger, my father had taught me the art of the trades and the intricacies involved. Was it not the avenue of man, as those of you seated here are men?”

“I ……” Shylock tried to intervene with nods from his community.

“Well, I am not any lady. I am Portia Belmont, and I had stood tall with many of you at the negotiations. I am versed in the terms and conditions of the contractual documents, the banking caveat on the loan, the procedures at the wharf, and the storage. And the arbitration process of the trades, which is why I am here today.”

‘Tell me, Mr. Judas. You mentioned the default term on the loan was a pound of flesh.” Portia went for the matter on hand.

“Yes, I do. As the wares did not support the full amount I loaned out, I hold the right to the terms of default, or in this case, the short weight of the repayment.” Shylock took the edge to press his claim. “Andre Bassanio Tito signed the documents.”

“Acknowledged.” Portia Belmont nodded. “We are in the field of trading, and compliance is needed to ensure fair trade, and if there is any failure to respect that, would you not say we are being …… malicious in our approach?”

Shylock was taken aback by the statement made by the lady. The gallery was murmuring, with some in agreement, but there were some questioning her approach.

“Obviously, I learned from the years of being with my father; there were moments we had to enforce our terms.” Portia Belmont looked at Bassanio. “We cannot live with lies or deceits.”

“Therefore…” Shylock was about to interject but was halted by Portia.

“Mr. Judas, did you verify the contents beforehand? Or did you accept the contents by the description in the documents? Did you raise any doubts to the officer of the "giovani dei calcolatori?"

“No, you did not, I presume. We had our faith with the officer of the "giovani dei calcolatori," am I right?" Portia snapped at her arguments. “Why else would we have them to ensure the valuation was done…correctly?”

“Did… we err in the trust? Unlikely, but maybe the error was on the journey and in the storage, then when it was… confiscated.”

“Ms. Belmont, if you are implying that my officers had pilfered the wares while in our custody, you are ……” Magistrate Javier roared out his protest.

“I did not say that, Magistrate, but we have to consider the journey of the wares and its possible… shall I say, losses, which were not foreseen when it was loaded.” Ms. Belmont smiled. “A risk all traders took with them on every shipment of wares. Piracy may happen at times. Thereafter, we the traders have what we term as insurance coverage supported by the banks or influential members of society.”

In 15th-century Genoa, marine insurance was a well-established practice where local businessmen formed a "risk community" to share maritime perils, with contracts becoming openly written for the first time. The contracts covered risks like loss of cargo due to shipwrecks, piracy, and storms, with premiums paid to underwriters. Genoa was a key financial market in Europe, alongside Florence and Venice, helping to reduce the financial risk of long, perilous sea voyages by spreading the costs among multiple parties. 

“Ms. Belmont, I stand ……” Magistrate Javier raised his voice, but Portia had seen that argument flowing towards her.

“I held the magistrate, and his officers have held onto their duties well. The losses are, as mentioned, the expected losses, which is why we hold insurance coverage. However, was this shipment covered? I stand to question Andre Bassanio Tito on this.”

Bassanio shook his head, and then Portia added for him.

“He did not, for he is new to Genoa and could not find the right parties to take the coverage. It was a risk he took, which some of us do at ……. of desperation. More to it, the conflict in Hungary and Wallachia was over with its battles, and such risk of losses was minimized. Traders do gamble on margins of losses, and Andre Bassanio Tito took that gamble.”

“Viola, he then failed.” Shylock gleefully said. “I am entitled to my claim then.”

“Expressly affirmative.” Portia looked at Shylock. What was it? A pound of flesh? Am I right?”

“It was stated …….” Shylock was to affirm that, but Portia diverted the attention of the magistrate to call on her witness.

“Send in Mr. Silva Dupree. He is a butcher.”

“I wish to call for a recess now.” The Chief Magistrate called out. “We will continue after lunch.

“Portia, what are you doing?” Enrico Moet stepped up to her. “We had a strategy planned.”

“Hush, cousin. I will win this case.” Portia looked at Enrico. “In your name it will carry the credit.”

“Or my license to practice…” Enrico sighed. He then muttered, "Why would not the womenfolk leave the legal duties to the male?" He had regretted acting there, and if not for Portia calling on the favours owed to the father, he would have declined.

At that time, Lady Sofia approached the friar and inquired about the action they had agreed on.

“It is done. The ship is ready to sail tonight.” Friar Lawrence whispered back. “And to your earlier question, I found Lorenzo’s father.”

“You found him? Good.” Lady Sofia looked away. “It is only right that he meets his father or be told of this father.”

“It is not that simple. He may not like to know of this now.” The friar looked away towards the man who was the father.

“I suggest you tell him before he leaves. When he boards the ship, I may not see him… if he ever forgives me for not telling him now.” Lady Sofia sighed. “Any news on Romeo?”

“None, my lady.” Friar Lawrence looked at Abram.

Outside the court, Lord Dante Montague walked towards the carriage with his lover, Lady Angeline.

“Why are we here? That case has nothing to do with me. I……”

“I came because of Portia Belmont. She needs our support. You saw how the magistrate had treated Juliet.” Lady Angeline looked at the other. “Are we not compassionating anymore?”

“I ……” Lord Dante Montague was about to reply when Julier approached him.

“Father, I must go. I have another friend to meet.” Juliet looked from her father to her mother.

“Is it Romeo Capulet? If so, then you are not allowed.” Lord Dante Montague stated his stand.

“No, I am to go with the friar to see someone. That is unwell.” Juliet stammered.

“I ……” Lord Dante Montague was to protest, but the friar had stepped in.

“My Lord, with your permission, may I take Juliet to see a dear friend of ours who is unwell?” Friar Lawrence looked at the lord.

“I ……” Lord Dante Montague’s reply was cut off by the lady’s mother.

“Please take heed here. Juliet needs to learn more on compassion.” Lady Angeline interjected. “My dear, please let us convene for lunch and return here later?”

Lady Angeline pulled the man into the carriage, leaving the young lady with the friar.

“Juliet, we need to talk, but not here. Come with me.” Friar Lawrence led the lady from the court.

“Romeo is…… missing. I cannot find him.” Friar Lawrence told the lady. “You must…”

“I must find him. I cannot live without him.” Juliet begged the friar.

“Please do not say that. He is around… maybe restrained from… I meant unable to leave just yet.”

“Friar, do find him. Help him. Is there any ransom to be paid here?”

“Why do you say that? He is …… may not be held against his will.” Friar Lawrence thought hard for words. “I will find him.”

“I would rather die than be away from him. Perhaps at death, we can meet one day.” Juliet cried out.

“Do not be silly, my lady. Death does not solve the issue. It will only…….” The friar held his words. “Maybe, if I tell the …… No, it may not work.”

“What may not work, Friar?” Juliet pressed on.

“If you are dead, I can… no, you will be told to the others. And the words will spread, and soon they …… Romeo may know, and he will come out.” Friar Lawrence spoke out his words when the thoughts made it up. “But I am silly. If you are dead, how else will you meet?”

“If I were to pretend to die, maybe it would work?” Juliet looked at the friar. “You told me of others who have risen from the death … …. The ……”

“The Lazarus … Lazarus of Bethany, whose life was restored by Jesus four days after his death, as told in the Gospel of John. The resurrection is considered one of the miracles of Jesus. But it was ……. It was claimed that Jesus could change death to life, physically and spiritually. When it looked like the end, when the facts said it was over, he brought new life. I suppose we are to trust this in our own lives. During our journey of life, we could change our life to be better.” Friar Lawrence sighed. “What am I talking about here?”

“We are to save Romeo.” Juliet cut in. “Could you make me look dead? Not truly dead, but seen dead. I could then be revived when Romeo arrives to see me. He would if he ever knew I am dead … or appear dead.”

“Silly of you. No one can be dead and not dead.” Friar Lawrence said. He then looked at the lady. “Maybe there is a way. I need to get ready for it… or give it some thought?”

“You are a dear man, Friar.” Juliet hugged the other.

“Are you sure?” Friar Lawrence asked.