Preys and Predator IV; Monster and Withes or the Modern Prometheus II, The Sequel

 I done the above. I was on two other tales, P&P Merrlyn, and P&P Mrs Hudson; midway before I swerved to P&P Modern Prometheus II. Well, after some weeks of everything to be done, I think I wrapped this one up. There were dry moments, but the pace picked up. I renamed the tale to P&P IV to keep the series in sequence.

Excerpts of the tale. 

“Metaphysics of science is a branch of philosophy that uses philosophical reasoning to analyze concepts in the natural sciences, such as laws of nature, causation, and space-time. And religious beliefs.”

“Perhaps in the context, I may be disputed, but for this is my view: metaphysics has been linked to demonic or immaterial spiritual entities. Perhaps influences of it as an integral part of religious beliefs. While specifics may vary, the fundamental concept of non-physical entities—I am referring to spirits, ghosts, and if they exist, then angels and demons. These entities could interact with the physical world.”

Gasps and murmurs were heard from the audience. The speaker at the podium looked to the audience in the Uni’s main hall.

“Let God’s thunder strike at me if I agitated any of your views.”

A clash of noise reverberated in the hall when a huge volume was dropped from the table onto the floor. All eyes were on the one who caused the interference.

“I am sorry. It was accidental.” The one who dropped the volume smiled.

“Lightning is a manifestation of the weather.” One of the audience members called out. “We are safe here under the roof.”

“There we have it. Mankind’s creation had saved us, or rather myself, from God’s wrath… for now.” The speaker smiled. “However, do take care when you step out in the open.” 

...........

“Your articles on that subject were dismissed like the bogeymen in the cupboard.” Victor laughed.

“They do, but not in the cupboard. They could climb out from under the bed. Nocturnal creatures, they were claimed to…….” Doctor Abraham took on a serious tone.

“These so-named creatures were never proven to exist. But metaphysically, they may exist. Or what they claimed was of my doing.” Victor had his voice raised. A few of the patrons there shuffled their seating.

“The realm of …… supernatural intrigued the ……” Doctor Abraham moved the subject matter then. “Were you not to study the works of Luigi Galvani, the experiment with frogs' legs twitching with electric current …… the theory of "animal electricity" in nerves, suggesting life itself was electrical.”

“Yes, among the many others, I was, but all my experiments were inconclusive. I then moved to other subjects, and last was to study abiogenesis; the works of …….”

“The works of Andrew Crosse; poof… the rabbit from the hat. Was it life created using electricity, though viewed as dangerous blasphemy by the clerics?” Doctor Abraham smiled. “If it was a serpent from the hat, then the works of the magician will ……. Exorcised.”

Both men laughed.

“Was it theatrics or science? But what Crosse did was ……” Doctor Abraham was cut off in his words. “Promethean Spark?”

---------=

Ahhhh......

Tally ho.

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 65

 

65.

 

Portia sat by herself in the kitchen of her home, sipping the tea she had made. She had dismissed most of the servants, for the house will be empty soon. She has decided to travel to Florence and from there to the north. She fancied no intention to stay at Genoa. Bassanio had tried to contact her, but she had denied him her replies. She sat there thinking of the event that made her choose a lover.

It was her idea to her dying father then.

“I will wed the person who made the right choice on me. It will not be wealth or fame, but sincerity in love and to cherish me.”

“Will you be the same?” Lord Belmont’s raspy voice asked. “You are the Belmont’s lady.”

“I will.” Portia smiled. “Whatever it was, it will be decided then.”

“You met Andre Bassanio?” Lord Belmont asked.

“Yes, I did. He is a nice man. He is new to Genoa.”

“He likes you. He may be a good choice.”

“The choosing of mine is… complicated, Father.” Portia sighed. “In the world of trades, a lady… the role of the woman is… different from that of the man. She has little choice. She was to obey, or rather, was commanded.”

“Portia, you are not any lady. You have been at my side, standing equal with me in negotiating the terms of trade.” Lord Belmont smiled. “You did well.”

“And we lost some good trades due to that.” Portia laughed.

“You cannot win them all, my darling. But we did well. You will do so with the trades. Let no man stop you.” Lord Belmont smiled. “I am dying, and one day all this is yours.”

“Get a good partner in your life. Do not compromise.” Lord Belmont reminded the lady. She did then and had taken a liking towards Bassanio. He was not perfect but likeable. It was also then when Nerissa shared her thoughts on Gratiano.

“They are not of Genoa.” Nerissa said. “We knew most of the traders in Genoa. Most of them are … at best, to be met across the table, and never at our side.”

“Nerissa, why are you so mean? There are some good men… here.” Portia sighed. “Not many I can like, but then we are not the most likeable ladies in Genoa for now. Some said we are …… unteachable.”

“Unreachable, you mean. Did you know once Lord Schnidt tried to peek down my tunic? Deplorable it was. The man was as old as my grandfather.” Nerissa sighed.

“Maybe he was looking for something there and ……” Portia smiled.

“What was there to see?” Nerissa leaned over towards Portia, exposing her bosom. “These have been given to me by my mother.”

“Perky …” Portia laughed. “Not mine; they are flattish.”

“Oh, please……” Nerissa sat back and laughed. Those were some of the things that Portia shared with her good friend. Ever since they met Gratiano and Bassanio, they had shared their thoughts on the men, but during the crisis with wares, Portia developed her misgivings.

Bassanio was a good man but seems to lack some qualities she wanted in her man. Portia sighed at the thoughts of hers. She had announced the breakup of their engagement without a second thought. Enrico, the ‘jury,’ was caught off guard by her call. The ‘juri’ had his moments when he wished he could be with Portia, but again, she did not see him as her lover.

“Jean…” Portia muttered. A servant walked in and smiled at Portia. She was grateful to be retained.

“Maria, please pack the table wares. There will be no guests to serve it now.”

“Yes, Mistress.” Maria proceeded to open the shelves to pick the table wares. Nerissa stood aside and then said.

“He is not here, Portia.” Nerissa interrupted Portia’s thoughts with a smile. “I heard Jean is on the run from the authorities. He was said to have helped in the escape of the Judas’ lady.”

“I did not know. Where is …… How is he?” Portia asked.

“I have not heard since. Maybe he is … on the run.” Nerissa said. “We are not to speak of him.”

“Yes, you’re right?” Portia with her eyes on Maria. “Some others will assume we know of his whereabouts.”

“Are you to leave Genia?” Nerissa asked.

“Yes, I think we must. There are too many events that I want to forget from here.” Portia smiled. “Get my items packed and ready to leave. As for you, please stay on to clear what's needed here. Then place the house on sale and find me. Your company will always be welcomed.”

“I will do that. Once, I did all that was needed.” Nerissa sighed. “We are without any baggage to hold on to.”

“How is Maurice?” Portia asked. “You know the officer that was here?”

“He is …… I do not know. I have not seen him since. His colleagues do not know of his whereabouts.” Nerissa looked at Portia. “I am a jinx when it comes to men. They die before their time.”

“Shun that thought. He will turn up.” Portia smiled. “He is a good man. Sings well too.”

“Alas, the young Ms. Belmont praising another man here. I thought you were to speak of Officer 24802. He is a fine officer and… a gentleman.” Nerissa smiled.

“Jean is a fine man. I ……” Portia blushed. “He did rescue me then.”

“Yes, as recalled by me. You were to be ravished, and he came in like a… hero to rescue you. I wondered if he saw anything that he should not.” Nerissa smiled then. “Perhaps a lifted hem.”

“Hush, woman. I am …… I was dignified then, and he is a gentleman. He will not peek.” Portia defended the other.

“No need to hush me, lady. I am just stating the obvious.” Nerissa laughed.

“Leave me and take care of the house. I need to rest now.” Portia looked away with her cheeks red. It will be sad to leave Jean out of her mind.

Leaving was on the mind of the friar. He sat by the tree stump looking at the path he had just taken earlier. It led back to the basilica. At that moment, he was unsure of his actions. He had in his mind to rescue Romeo and then reunite the lovers, but if he does that, he will incur the wrath of the Chorbaji and the Capulet. Or he could leave the matter alone.

“I cannot.” Friar Lawrence muttered. In his role as the friar, he had been told of many things, and on occasion he had to act for them. He held many secrets, and some of them may lead to fatalities. The simpler ones were to help young lovers to elope or halt some bad affairs, but killing was his last resort.

For Lamin, killing was an art to the name. He had done it before to silence the enemies when ordered by the Sultan, but of late, he had remained quiet until Benvolio. He had killed Benvolio to avoid the latter exposing the Wallachian. Did he regret doing it? No, he did not. He asked for forgiveness later in his prayers.

Prayers came in different ways. One was when he united father and son; Abram Tov now knew of his son. It may not be too late. Lorenzo did meet his father at the home of Jessica Judas.

That was one lovers’ issue resolved, but he was unsure about Juliet and Romeo.

It was then the friar saw the shadow of the man whom he had seen some time back. He knew the man as a vagabond at the marketplace, and that place was far from where he was then. His instinct as an assassin kicked in.

Friar Lawrence took to his feet and proceeded back to the city. He passed the man who was seated there by the path, pretending to rest. The friar continued his walk and then reached the quiet stretch. He knew the place well and took off in a hurry to the bush nearby. There the friar waited with the dagger drawn.

“Do not scream, or you will be dead here.” Friar Lawrence had his left arm over the neck, and his right hand held the dagger at the rear.

“Do not kill me, friar.” The man pleaded. “I was just……”

“You were following me. Why?” Friar Lawrence poked the dagger at the man’s back.

“Some rich lord asked us to follow you.” The man uttered. “We were to know where you were going.”

“Did you follow me back then? How long?” Friar Lawrence asked. “Did you tell anyone?”

“Some time back.” The man nodded.

“Unhand that man!” The call came from the front. Two men were approaching the friar. He had seen them before; vagabonds most times and unscrupulous lots other times. Friar Lawrence took no chances of doing otherwise and thrust the dagger at the man’s heart from the rear. The man struggled and then dropped to his knees.

“He killed Dino!” The leading man approaching the friar drew out his dagger.

“Aye, we kill then.” The second man called out. “For Dino.”

“He is a friar.” The leading man called out. “We will be sinned.”

“He still bleeds. Let us do it.” The second man held a dagger in his right hand. He rushed at the friar, but the latter was prepared for the attack. The friar sidestepped and thrust his dagger at the inside of the right elbow. The dagger cut into the forearm and caused the attacker to drop his dagger. The friar followed on with the right elbow knock on the right side of the jaw of the attacker. The attacker reeled to the left, and the friar followed through with the stab into the right ribs.

“What manner of a friar are you?” The remaining man called out.

“The one whose devotion was not to God anymore.” The friar rushed at the second man. The latter turned to run but was stopped with the thrown dagger in the back. He fell on his face, and the friar was on his back, removing the dagger and having it levelled at the neck.

“Who sent you? And what did you say?”

“I ……. I do not know. It was a rich lord, and we send… Ernest to show him the basilica.”

The mention of the hideaway triggered the kill instinct in the friar. He thrust the dagger into the neck and severed the jugular veins. He then stood up from the dying man, wiping the blood off his hand onto the frock.

“Forgive me, God. I have sinned.” The friar sighed. “Romeo…… I must get him out.”

The friar rushed back to the basilica.

 

 

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 64

 64.

 

The gathering at the home of Lord Schmidt Helmut was full in attendance, with even Lord Gencio Capulet and Lord Dante Montague in attendance. They got the invitation that morning. There was the magistrate himself, with Count Paris on the side. Prince Escalus was standing by the fireplace to address the gathered. They had convened in the library there.

“Lord Schmidt held a cellar of wines, which I am enjoying. That is something; I have found pleasure during my stay here at Genoa. However, I find it frustrating with my stay here not being able to get hold of the Empress Jewels.”

“Lord Gencio Capulet, you told me you will find it, but to this moment, I have not seen any progress from you.”

“My prince, I have been busy.” Lord Gencio Capulet pushed the issue off.

“Obviously, you were. Your son, Romeo Capulet, is a wanted felon by the authorities. And Magistrate Javier is unable to do his task to apprehend the lad just yet.”

“My prince, the lad you mentioned is elusive, but we will get him soon.” Magistrate Javier stared at the lord. “He may be with help from the family.”

“Please do not accuse…” Lord Gencio Capulet was not to take the accusation then. He was cut off by the prince.

“Enough of these words. I am only here to get the Empress Jewels. I hold no interest in anything else.” Prince Escalus looked to the magistrate. “With the conclusion of Bassanio’s case, the fate of the jewels is still missing. What is your assumption? He lied? He was cheated? And who is Chorbaji Tarmuk?”

“I ……” Magistrate Javier struggled to reply.

“Are you that incompetent? Or perhaps the takings as a magistrate overwhelm you?” Prince Escalus stared at the other. “And to you, Count Paris? What progress have you made on the issue?”

Everyone else who was gathered there looked elsewhere.

“I would like to be excused, Prince Escalus.” Lord Dante Montague stood up from the seat. “I have……”

“Sit down, Lord Dante Montague. I know from my network; you were the first among them all to know about the Empress Jewels. You were to trade it to the Ottoman Sultan, but Lord Gencio Capulet… took it from you and did the trade.”

“Prince Escalus, what had transpired has nothing to do with today.” Lord Dante Montague walked to the doorway.

“My patience with you is getting less, Lord Dante Montague. You walked out on me more than once. I will … not tolerate that. Sit back, Lord Dante Montague.”

The tone of the voice from the prince was not courteous but threatening. Lord Dante Montague took back his seat.

“As there was no progress, I took the liberty of doing my own investigations.” Prince Escalus stepped to the window and looked outside at the garden. “See that case there.”

The prince motioned to the case on the table.

“It holds ducats, and it is halved by now. I paid well for information. It is part of the war lessons I learned. No battles can be won without knowledge of your foe. Nothing can remain hidden if you know who to ask.”

“Ever since I arrived, I have had informants out there. In Hungary, it was set, but not here. Vuk Brakovic helped me there, but he felt his task was done and left for Hungary. He is a warrior and not a member of the Court. He believes in direct confrontation, not backstabbing.”

“However, in any battle, you need more than one front to contend with. I created multiple fronts and find my strategy there.”

 “I call upon my first informant. Bring him in.” Prince Escalus's loud voice reached outside the library. A man was dragged in by two guards.

“Officer 23567 Maurice of the Magistrate’s Court. He was assigned to guard Ms. Belmont on the order of the magistrate. He was accompanied by Officer 24602 Jean, who I was told eluded arrest after freeing one named Jessica Judas.”

“How are you, Officer Maurice?” Prince Escalus looked at the officer who was left lying on the flooring. “I was told that you fell several times in the dark basement. Such a messy place it was, and the rats are huge.”

“I ……” Officer Maurice recognized the magistrate and was about to speak when the prince continued.

‘Officer Maurice was assaulted during a break-in, and of course his injuries were aggravated by the falls in the basement. However, he did report on one other matter that interested me. He told me that there were talks of a group of Turks in the city holding watch on a house here.” Prince Escalus looked at the magistrate. “I was just asking the… right questions. Your officers are well versed with the happenings in the city.”

“However, he was not to know more. He, however, told me the house belonged to the Capulet.” Prince Escalus shifted his focus onto the lord. “I did some checks and found it was true, and a family lived there. It was the family named Vlad Tepes, or you may know him as the Impaler.”

Lord Gencio Capulet was stunned.

“Nasty person, but he was released by the king to battle the Turks. He did but was reported to have died. Well, he is very much alive here in Genoa, but not at the house. He was taken away by the Turks to another place of hiding.”

“How did I know of this? Well, the servants do talk when they are paid well.” Prince Escalus smiled. “I do pay well.”

“The question remains, where was he taken to, and why would he interest me?”

“For one, he is a fugitive from the King, and I am obliged to capture him. Second, he is Radu Tepes's brother and the last known person to see the jewels. Third, the news I got was Vlad Tepes is protected by one named Chorbaji Tarmuk.”

“Genoa is a huge city, but the talk of the dwellers is astounding.” Prince Escalus smiled.

“I will get onto the task.” Magistrate Javier felt embarrassed that another had to tell him how to do his tasks.

“Soon, but I am not done. I have my friends check on other matters. For one, one named Lorenzo Capulet had booked passage to Spain to sail tonight.” Prince Escalus looked at the lord. “The stewards at the wharf are…good servants.”

“I will stop him.” Lord Gencio Capulet stood up.

“Please stay calm, my lord.” Prince Escalus said. “I was wondering why the Capulet stepson was leaving so soon. His other brother is in hiding, and yet he leaves. Does he have the… something I want? Perhaps a set of jewels?”

“My son… stepson does not have anything to do with the jewels. He knows not it.” Lord Gencio Capulet defended Lorenzo. “He may be …… coincident to leave. His mother will know. Maybe visit a relative there.”

“With another, I am curious. Perhaps he was leaving with Romeo? They have the jewels and are about to abscond with them… of course with your blessing.” Prince Escalus said. “You may be hiding them all.”

“I know …… I did not. You knew of my son’s so-called involvement in the death of my relative and other Montagues. You told me that I could bargain for my son’s release.”

“Yes, I did. Lord Gencio Capulet, you are powerful in Genoa, and with that, you could upturn Genoa easily to find your son or even get the release for your son, but you did not. You stalled for time.” Prince Escalus hit back. “I offered you a chance to get back your son … in good faith.”

“I could not find him… nor the jewels. I am still looking.” Lord Gencio Capulet uttered. “I know nothing of them.”

“And to you, Lord Dante Montague. You could have done the same but did not. I was puzzled by that. However, the rumour of your daughter involved with the Capulet linked you here. What baffles me is the excitement of the lady to search for the lad. Love is ever powerful. Or perhaps, the riches of the jewels bind them.”

“My daughter and my family affairs are my own, Prince Escalus.” Lord Dante Montague argued. “I have no involvement with the Capulets nor the jewels.”

“Yet, you met Radu Tepes before his… death. How odd can it be that the Tepes appeared to be dead but turned up later as undead? Is he dead as dead? No one seems to remain dead anymore.” Prince Escalus stared at the lord. “You …… Yes, I knew. The servants talked. You also met Vlad Tepes.”

“I will not stand for these ……. Accusations.” Lord Dante Montague once again stood up.

“You will.” Prince Escalus stared at the lord. “I had your daughter followed and whom she meets. There were a few; one was named Lorenzo, and another was a friar, a man of the faith. And Ms. Belmont. She is leaving Geno soon, as I was told. Maybe she lied about the jewels.”

“I had them followed and learned of the things I just said. But the friar was elusive. For a man of faith, he was good. He has shaken off my informants several times, but he may get careless. As all of you did.”

“All of you are somewhat linked to the Tepes’ family and from there to the jewels. However, you may come to my aid. I will pardon you and even get the magistrate to drop the charges.”

It was then a servant appeared.

“Ah, good news, I hope.” The prince leaned in and listened to the whispers of the servant. He then looked at the gathered.

“I found Vlad Tepes.”

 

 

 

 

 

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.”