Tweet tweet.... I used to say that.... but they X it now

 

28^th June 2024 1354pm.

The question on mid; not in it is why do I write on this subject over and over again even way back when I did the Crusaders tales, I guess the answer is it intrigued me much on the mythology of the existence of the beings. I have done on the Angels (several tales), Dracula, (man or myth) and others (my memories evade me at my age), and I keep on coming back to the topic. I did Dante’s re-write before and Paradise the last tale coming soon once I hear God’s view and how to construct the ending. Perhaps ‘generative Artificial Intelligence’ may assist me. I did tell God; I was getting tired and SHE suggested AI. SHE did say I will be a BLOODY BUFFON if I did not try that. I always believe my mum when she told me years ago, we are right. I was sure SHE is always RIGHT.

I am an avid reader anything I can get my hands on, and the Wild Wide World of the Internet is to me the dictionary onto my research. At my current age (I am not that old…. maybe getting there.) I still read comics. I liked the realm of fantasy and mystery (I read all of Holmes adventures may times and even visited the 221B when I was in London for a six-hours stop. Did not go to the ‘clay figurine’ museum near there; reckon my own horror cupboard was more exciting.).

Now I am to do another tale here, after reading GHOST BUSTER (not the parody version where green gel was…...hold that thought there. Darn…. I need my reading glasses to make out that.) and the start of the tale begins to take shape like the first single cell in the Origin of Species.

Shall we?

My wife brought me a book on our anniversary (could not recalled which one it was rhe anniversary ) and it was by DAN BROWN; DECEPTION POINT. Wow! Another book to read. I placed it on the book rack of mine..... maybe it will be elongated over time..... and she asked me if I read it..... I said UH-HUH..... and then she asked me 'how could you read blank pages? ' ..... I grabbed the book and flipped it.... it was all blank pages...... GOD, I learned my lesson that day..... I was being outplayed by the better sleuth there. 

The Highland Tale; The King Act Four Scene Two Sub Act One

 

THE FATE OF THE FAMILY

ACT FOUR

SCENE TWO

SUB ACT ONE

 

At the castle at Fife, Lady MacDuff met her guest in the chamber. It was inappropriate but she had her son in attendance. The servant admitted the guest and they greeted.

“Ross of Cambria, I bid you welcome.’ Lady MacDuff smiled. “You know my son, Garth.”

“Please leave the formality, Beryl. We have known each other as distant relatives, and since you married to the MacDuff family, we can still be friends.” Ross bowed to the lady. Ross and MacDuff have their differences in some views but they are still friends.

“I got word from your love to take you and Garth to safety.” Ross spoke of the reason he was there.

“What did he do that made him flee Fife?”

“You must have patience, Beryl. He had a reason and will not tell me.” Ross said. “Maybe he meets you then he will tell.”

“He had no patience. To run away was insane. Even if we are not actually traitors …….” The lady spoke.

“Hush your words, Beryl. The walls have ears.”

“That I knew for a long time. And secret passage ways, with the peep holes. The MacDuff had not survived for generations without any precautions. The servants ……. Well, some are loyal but the others may be treasured to move their allegiance.”

 “It is treason to say that.” Ross reminded the lady.

“As much as it makes us seem like traitors.” Beryl smiled. “And we are not.”

“You have grown with strength, Beryl. I admired that in you.” Ross smiled. “But we do not know whether it was wisdom or fear that made him flee.”

“Wisdom? That eluded him then.” Beryl was upset at her lover. “Was it wise to leave his wife, his children, his house, and his titles in a place from which he himself flees?”

“Does he not love us. He lacks the natural feelings of a husband and father. Even the fragile wren …… the smallest of birds ……will fight an owl to protect her young ones in the nest. Macduff’s running away has everything to do with fear and nothing to do with love. And since running away is contrary to all reason, it also must have nothing to do with wisdom.”

“My dearest cousin, I beg you, control yourself. Your husband is noble, wise, and judicious, and understands the current political unrest.” Ross assured the other. “We have our differences in views but mutual respect prevailed. I don’t dare say anything more than this, but it is a bad time when people are denounced as traitors and have no idea why; when we believe rumours out of fear, but aren’t even sure what we’re afraid of.”

“It is like being trapped in the glen or a dark cavern, floating with the heavy fog over the head and no help could be seen.” Ross sighed. “It is your safety I am to take on now.”

“Our fate is in your hands, Ross of Cambria.” The lady replied.

“I will leave now to plan, but it would not be long before I return. When things are at their worst they must eventually end, or else improve to be like how they were before. My good cousin, I give my blessing to you.”

“My son has a father, and yet he may be fatherless.” Beryl looked at Ross. “You know that for a fact.”

“If I stay longer, I will disgrace myself and embarrass you by crying. I must leave now.” Ross tried to avoid the emotional rush. He excused himself.

“Young MacDuff, your father is dead. What will you do now? How will you live?”

“My father is not dead. If he is, I will live as birds do, Mother.” The young lad told his mother.

“What? You will eat worms and flies? Whoever taught you that?”

“My father did. He told me nothing is forever and live for the moment. I will live on whatever I get, like birds do.”

“Oh, you pitiful bird! You will not know to fear any traps or snares set out by hunters.” The lady hugged her son. “Your father is wise but the wiser need to be more when in the dire moments.”

“What dire moments, Mother? Whom shall I fear?’ The lad asked.

“The ones who will not let you live.”

“Why should I fear them, Mother? Hunters do not try to catch pitiful birds. I am not a predator. I am a ……. No matter what you say, my father is not dead. He will protect us.”

“Yes, he would but if he’s dead?” The mother said. “He is a good man.”

“Was my father a traitor, Mother? I heard the servant’s mentioned it. What is a traitor?”

“Someone who makes a promise and breaks it.” The mother replied.

“What does one do a traitor?”

“Everyone who does it should be hanged.”

“And should everyone be hanged who makes and breaks promises?”

“Everyone.” The mother smiled at the son. “That sis the just punishment for the traitor.”

“Who should hang them?”

“The honest men.”

“Then the liars are fools, for there are enough liars in the world to defeat and hang the honest men.” The lad looked at the mother.

“Heaven helped you, my poor little monkey!” The mother laughed. “But what will you do for a father?”

“If he were dead, you will be weeping for him. If you are not weeping, it is a good sign that I will soon have a new father.”

Then mother remained silent. It was then two figures appeared before them. One was a lady.

“Who are you?” Lady MacDuff asked. “Were you sent by Ross of Cambria. Why do you cover your faces?”

“Where is your husband, the Thane?”

“I hope he is not anywhere so disgraceful that men like you could find him.” Lady MacDuff replied.

“Leave my father alone!” The young MacDuff shouted. The lad charged at the other lady.  The lady who was covered in the face, stabbed the lad in the chest.

“My son!” Lady MacDuff grabbed hold of her son. “You killed him.”

The lad laid there with the heart silent.

“You killed my son!” Lady MacDuff stared at the masked lady.

“And you are next.” The lady killer said.

 

 

 

The Highland Tale; The King Act Four Scene One Sub Act Four

 

THE KING SUMMONED

ACT FOUR

SCENE ONE

SUB ACT FOUR

 

“My sanctuary …… my vision gone. Where are they? Gone? Let this evil hour be marked as cursed in the calendar.” MacBeth was dissatisfied.

“You outside, come in!” The King called out. Lennox was seen then.

“Is this the Citadel? I have never been ….”

“Speak your mind, Adviser.” The King was annoyed.

“What are you …...” Lennox was cut off.

“Did you see the Angels?” The King asked.

“Angels? No, my King.” Lennox shook his head. “I just arrived when the …….”

“They did not pass by you?”

“No, indeed, my King.” Lennox replied.

“Damn all those who trust them! I heard the galloping of horses. Who was it that came this way?”

“My King, two or three men came, bringing word that Macduff has sought exile to England.”

“Exiled to England?” The King was upset.

“Yes, my King.” Lennox bowed.

“So, King Edward beckons war on me. I will ……. “

“My King, the English are …...” Lennox tried to reason with King.

“It is time for me to act. Edward had sided with Malcolm and now MacDuff. They will all be defeated. More so, MacDuff for he had stood in the way of my terrifying plans.” The King looked from Lennox to the crystals. “Unless you immediately do what, you planned, you never get the chance to do it. From this moment on, I will act as soon as I want to do something.”

“Time waits for no man. I will begin right now to follow my thoughts immediately with action. I will launch a surprise attack against MacDuff’s castle; seize the town of Fife; and kill his wife, his children, and anyone else unfortunate enough to bear even a trace of his blood.”

“Is it wise, my King?” Lennox asked. “The others ……”

“No more boasting like a fool. I will do this deed before my sense of purpose dulls. And no more hallucinations!” The King turned towards Lennox. “Where are these messengers? Come, lead me to them. There are tasks for them.”

 

 

The Highland Tale; The King Act Four Scene One Sub Act Three

 

THE KING RETURNED

ACT FOUR

SCENE ONE

SUB ACT THREE

 

“Speak, Duncan. Come back, Duncan.” MacBeth called out.

“Were you there at the castle that night? Why do you taunt me? I did not kill you. You were dead when I arrived.” MacBeth spoke the truth of that night. “Who kill you?”

“Duncan! Speak to me.” MacBeth was upset. “Why do you do this to me? I know you had secrets.”

“Tell me of one. Do tell me of MacDuff. I need to know.” MacBeth called out. “Why is he with the prince?”

“Malcolm lives and MacDuff ……. Why should I fear him? Yet, I will make doubly sure and guarantee my fate. You will die, MacDuff, and by killing you I will defeat my fear and always sleep easily.”

” Tell me. Am I right?” MacBeth was insistent.

“You cannot command him.” Main voiced out.

“I desist. Whatever you are, thanks for your good advice. You have described exactly what I feared. MacDuff is my immediate concern.” MacBeth sounded relief.

“But one more thing …….” MacBeth was pressing on.

The second apparition appeared in the form of a figure known to MacBeth.

“Esther??” MacBeth was calling out. His dead lover was holding the bloodied child.

“MacBeth! MacBeth! MacBeth!” The apparition voiced.

“I hear thee. If I had three ears, I had use all three to listen.” MacBeth moaned.

“Be violent, bold, and determined. Mock the strength of other men, because no man born from a woman will ever harm King MacBeth.”

The second apparition vanished and a third one appeared in the form of a child wearing a crown and holding a tree in his hand.

“Who is that? Which spirit that appears like the child of a King, wearing a royal crown on his young head?” MacBeth was baffled.

“Silence!” Main voiced sternly. “Listen, but do not speak to it.”

“Be as courageous and proud as a lion. Do not worry about who dislikes you, who resents you, and who conspires against you. MacBeth will never be beaten until Great Birnam Wood comes to fight you at Dunsinane Hill.” The third apparition voiced and then vanished.

“Who was that? A child with crown? I have no heir.” MacBeth said.

“Not yet.” MacBeth mumbled. He had waited on Elleanor but it was not forthcoming.

“Great Birnam Wood?’ MacBeth tried to recall the name. He heard tales of the trees there.

“There seats an ancient tree, the Birnam Oak, it was named the "Hangman's Tree". on a strip of woodland on the south bank of the River Tay. The trunk is wide and its large spreading branches have latterly been supported on a number of struts to prevent them from collapsing under their own weight. The exact age is unknown, but the girth suggests an age of very old.”

“The mortals of Man will be gone but not the tree.” Another said of the tree.

“That will never happen.” MacBeth was disbelieving. “Who can command the forest so that the trees lift their roots from the earth?”

“Can it be sweet prophecies? Good! My murders will never rise until the forest of Birnam rises, and I will live a full life and die only of old age, as is customary.” MacBeth was delighted.

“But my heart still throbs to know one thing. Tell me, if your dark powers can see it: will Banquo’s sons ever reign in this Kingdom? He is my nemesis.”

“Do not try to learn more.” Main voiced but MacBeth was unwilling to back down.

“I demand to be satisfied. If you deny me, may an eternal curse fall on you! Let me know.”

“Show him so his heart grieves. Come like shadows and depart as shadows too!” Main roared out. Over the top of the crystal, the parade of eight Kings appeared across the ceiling, the last one holds a mirror in his hand, followed by the last who was not a King but one that appeared to be a follower.

Banquo was the name.

‘Unworthy angels! Why do you show me this? Will this line of Kings stretch on to infinity? Yet another one? And a seventh? I want to see no more.” MacBeth was staring at Banquo. “How is he here? And yet an eighth appears, holding a mirror in which I see many more Kings.”

“Some of those Kings carry double orbs and triple sceptres! Horrible sight! Now I see it is true: blood-splattered Banquo smiles at me and points at them, identifying them as his descendants.” MacBeth was upset. “What of mine?”

The spirits of the Kings with Banquo vanished.

“What? Is this true?” MacBeth asked.

“Yes, it is all true. But why do you stand there so amazed?” Main voiced.

“Let us conjure up some spirits and show him what we can do. I will charm the air to make music while you perform your wild dance.” The crystals them hummed and shades of aura appeared over the place.

“Then this noble King will say that our ceremonies repaid his friendly welcome.” The crystals then went quiet.

“My King!” The voice called to MacBeth from outside the Citadel. It woke him then.

“Was I asleep?” MacBeth shook his head. He then heard the voice once more.

“Are you there?”

 

Hi Yo .....Silver.... Hold on.... It is a T-FORD

 

19^th June 2024

A long gruelling two weeks but fun in doing this tale in between my daily chores of work and sleep, and food, and the bidet…. And what other stuff anyone do.

As I write on this tale; I ever really planned my tale from the start except an idea or image, it was to be on Mark Antony prior to going to Egypt. As I went on …. And on…. the tale went on for days…. I will adapt as I go along.

At now 27K words, the direction of the tale began to mould in the writing. As the title speaks for itself, it is a tale of the people serving here; the lieutenants and the of course the maids. The tale built around the gangs of Rome, and then Egypt with the focus on Julius Caesar, Mark Antony and the ever-beautiful Cleop. Let us how it will move from there.

27^th June

I am into the final lap of the tale……. explaining the plot and I must have a few T-Fords bullet riddles by now. It is at about 50K words now.  

And Mark Antony have not even stepped at Egypt. Just for info, Julius is there. I am not planning to write a threesome (I may since that may a good idea.) ….. as yet, menage a trois on ….’who’s knocking, the bed is a double and we are busy now…..

So, what's next?

I have a few creative ideas......roll me a double SIX here.....

The Highland Tale; The King Act Four Scene One Sub Act Two

 

THE KING RETURNS

ACT FOUR

SCENE ONE

SUB ACT TWO

 

The Citadel entrance opened to allow entry to the guest. It was the King and he was alone. He saw the crystals were humming and there were the assorted shades seen. It was alike the scene in the battle field when the parties meet to partake for victory.

“What is going on here, you secret, dark ……. Soothsayers? Show yourself to me, Angels? I am the King.” MacBeth called out. “I had fulfilled your foretold vision. I am King.”

“Something that has no headings.” The crystals hummed.

“Hush!” Third communicated to First. “We are in error mode if we respond.”

First and Second were in loop on the call.

“I command you by the …… Godly influence you serve to answer my questions, no matter how you come to know those answers.” MacBeth called out. “Angels, show thyself.”

“I do not care if you unleash violent winds that tear down churches; cause the foaming waves to rise up and destroy all ships and sailors; flatten crops and trees with storms; make castles fall down on the heads of their inhabitants; cause palaces and pyramids to topple; or create so much chaos in nature that destruction gets tired of itself. Just give me answers.”

“Speak.” First responded.

“Demand.” Second responded.

“We will comply?” Third reacted.

The three Angels appeared before the King.

“To whom do desire the answers? From us ……. or from our ……… creator?” First voiced.

“Neither. Just let me see them.” MacBeth said “I have reached my rank but the trails to it were ……. Complicated. I need to ……”

“You done what, King?” Second voiced.

“I cannot …… I cannot …... tell.” MacBeth bowed his head. “I ……I have silenced your unbeliever named Banquo. Yet, he …... Will his children be King?”

“Shudder your words, mortal. Let me tell say it for you.” It was the Main who intervened as a voice over the other three servers. It held no form but a commanding voice to be herd in the Citadel.

“I am back and will see to your reprimands later.” Main communicated to the three servers.

“God?” MacBeth seek the understanding. “Show me your appearance.”

“You done the blood of a sow that has eaten her nine offspring. Take the liquefied fat from the corpse of a murderer hanged on the gallows, and throw it into the flame.” It was then another new form appeared.

The form of a head yet without its body.

It was Duncan.

“He knows your thoughts. Listen to what he says, but do not say a thing.” Main voiced out.

“MacBeth! MacBeth! MacBeth!” The apparition bearing Duncan’s head voiced. “Beware Macduff. Beware the Thane of Fife. Release me. Enough.”

The apparition then vanished.

 

 

The Highland Tale; The King Act Four Scene One Sub Act One

 THE CITADEL REVISITED

ACT FOUR

SCENE ONE

SUB ACT ONE

 

The crystals were humming at different decibel that moment. More so with the three huge columns namely First, Second and Third.

“Third syntax error! Recalcitrant indeed.” The First voiced out.

“It was recurring on the lines here too.” Second was whining at the errors highlighted. “Have any of your lines registered a hedgehog sighting?

“Negative. My routines are running harpy dances.” Third screeched out. “And this are not my initial tutoring’s.”

“Do the verification codes on the loop or the lines will run circles around the program. My error codes are in the around the sub-core. Watch the toad …… it will slip in under the routines, remark those lines or get fried in the diagnosis.” First being the older version applied the fixes.

“Double, double lines to treble. Fire burn, and bubble the command lines.” The other crystals hummed the common maladies on programming.

“Fill in the void on the lines, dongle the syntaxes, and filled the loops to avoid the bubbles.” First ran the lines. “Add a new command and edit the last line.”

“Double, double lines to treble. Fire burn, and bubble the command lines.” The other crystals hummed the common maladies on programming.

“Pop the major lines with the sub-lines. Run the dragon command and test the blazes over it. It should perform or the whole command lines needs to be tested once over.” Second was doing its diagnostics.

“Double, double lines to treble. Fire burn, and bubble the command lines.” The other crystals hummed the common maladies on programming.

“Running the freezing lines now. It shall cool the processor load.” Third ran the test.

It was then Main appeared on the communication link.

“Innovative commands. Good tasks. Commendable lines.” Main was impressed by the new programs. “I would add that the improvement may be provocative to me for it could signal all of you may initiate a new platform and overridden mine. I will initiate some safety protocols on the services.”

“Double, double lines to treble. Fire burn, and bubble the command lines.” The other crystals hummed the common maladies on programming

The crystals went into a low tone while the services tuned down with the safety protocols. Second then heard the alert at the Citadel entrance.

“It is the King.” Second voiced.

“Who? The one we …...” First verified the alert.

“I can see the alert command. It is going to get us into the bad command loops.” Third sent the lines. “Main will not allow us to take in the request.”

“We tasked it before, and shall complete it.” First was the one which acted on the loop. “Main is off the links now. Open the entry doors for whoever is knocking.”

 

Foot note:

A challenge here to re-introduce the three protagonists; First, Second and Third. As I had introduced the three as servers of artificial intelligence; how was it to change the contents here to be authentic. Well, here is my version of it. 

The Highland Tale; The King Act Three Zero Scane Four

 

THE ENGLISH

ACT ZERO

SCENE FOUR

 

MacDuff stood by the Thames River, with his stare on the London Tower.

The Tower of London, officially His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London, is a historic castle on the north bank of the river Thames in central London, England. It was founded toward the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest. The White Tower, which gives the entire castle its name, was built by William the Conqueror in 1078 and was initially a resented symbol of oppression, inflicted upon London by the new Norman ruling class. The castle was once as a prison, and a royal residence, an armoury, a treasury, a menagerie, among many other functions. Its notable residents included such as Elizabeth I before she became queen, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Elizabeth Throckmorton, were held within its walls. This use has led to the phrase "sent to the Tower".

Over the generations with the Royal City of London as it was named then, had expanded with many impressive structures, the lineage of nobles had stopped any development near the tower.

“It shall be preserved to eternity for it represent the nation.” The King that had made that proclamation then had since deceased but his words were listened by the other ascending Kings.

“Good day, MacDuff.” The Thane turned to look at the figure who addressed him.

“Good day, Malcolm. Are you doing well?” MacDuff was concerned on the prince.

“I am fine. The Tower is drafty in the night but we are used to it from the days at the Highlands.”

“How did the King Edward treat you?”

“His Highness treats me well. He is aware that MacBeth is upset but he will not turn me over. He owes it to Father whom he shared a friendship.”

“How fares Donalbain?” MacDuff enquired.

“He is good. He is with the Irish and they had forgotten their conflicts with us.” Malcolm then turned to the matter on his mind.

“How fares the King? I meant the one who took over as King.”

“MacBeth is good. He is upset at the death of Banquo and of late, had some setbacks on his health. He rants on the spirits and disallowed any Healers to attend to him.”

“Do take care of him.” Malcolm told the other. “Explain to him that we did not ……”

“Hush there, Malcolm. I know neither of you killed your father. It was the deed of another but the fault was laid onto you.”

“You saved us that night.” Malcolm was grateful to MacDuff.

“It may task. I loved your father but they were to pin his death on the two of you.” MacDuff sighed. “It was a task to get the two of away. Donalbain was to split from you so that killers whoever they are will not catch the two of you in one place. King Edward is a good friend of mine and he returns the favour to protect you.”

“What of Father’s killer?” Malcolm asked. “Will we ever know?”

“Leave it away, Malcolm. I will find the real killer.” MacDuff looked at the tower. He recalled that day when he walked to the King’s chamber and saw the latter dead. He had sounded the alarm, while he searched for the guards. MacBeth was seen then with his hands blooded and the dagger in his right hand.

“I killed the killers. It was the guards. They killed the King.” MacBeth had told him. “I will see to Lennox now.”

MacDuff was to question the other, but MacBeth had rushed off. He approached the dead guards and saw them lying motionless. He had wanted to question the guards but it was to no avail. He examined the dead guards and caught the scent of the wine. He searched for the goblet and found it near the guards. He took a whiff of the remaining contents and then took some samples.

The result of the samples drew more questions to him, and he decided to go to see Malcolm. He asked the prince of that night’s event.

“MacDuff, are you sure?” Malcolm asked.

“I had to. My life is at risk. I have sent words to my family. May God save them.” MacDuff sighed.

His love and their only son.

 

 

 

Tony and Cleop Act One Scene Two Sub-Scene Four

 

Act One

Scene Two

Sub-Scene Four

The bitch’s letter

 

My dear husband

Firstly, let me say this: I loved you as much as I loved my other two previous husbands. The dead does not measure to you now. Nor will I ever compare you to them, for your valiant actions are never to be compared with. I do miss you from here. And our children, M. Antonius (nicknamed Antyllus) and Iullus Antonius, do ask for you. They are your twin sons not by birth but by name as they call you father too; they are brave and fearsome of anyone who will desecrate your good name.

Please allow me to share my thoughts with you here now.

I know you married me not for my fame and wealth. I am the daughter of Fulvii and the Sempronii Tuditani, two noble Plebeian families that have been dying since the end of the last empire. I had a good life with my husband's influence; I have seen more of it in the boys who served them. I have taken the children to display before the boys that they are yours. They proved themselves well when they addressed the boys. Many had pledged their loyalty to the children. As I have towards you.

When you left for the far city, I will not mention the woman’s name here. Not in the same breath as I confessed my love to you. I was to care for the extended families, our relatives and even your mother. She is fine if you were to ask. We have many conflicts, but they were resolved through negotiation or by force if need be. I am no stranger to force, as you may know.

I am a good mother, devoted to my family, my husband, a cook, although I was not every adept at it, and above all, I saw to bed all of you. I only came to understand the influence of the empire when Clodius died. He was a peaceful man, a lawyer by profession, yet he was gunned down on the street.

However, he was a threat to Cicero, with his influence on the others; he gave them corn during the famine. He enacted the new rules for the empire. The first, the lex de capite civis Romani, was directed against Cicero and punished with exile anyone who put to death a Roman citizen without trial. Cicero had, of course, ordered the execution without a trial of the Catilinarian conspirators, among whom was your stepfather, P. Cornelius, another noble man. The second law, the lex Clodia de exsilio Ciceronis, confirmed Cicero’s punishment of exile after he had fled Rome in fear of prosecution under the first law.

Son, after the death of Clodius, I married Curio. He was associated with Cicero, but they were not conspirators in Clodius’ death. Clodius died fighting the Numidians on behalf of the empire.

Enough of my previous. I am onto you now.

I did wonder why I married you. We were lovers after Curio died. I was twice a widow, and chaste was not my body, but regardless, I found my last love with you. Yes, Mark Antony. I do love you. We hold no children of our own but our love. You were the empire’s consul, and yet Cicero; still the conspirator was adamant about toppling you. I had stood by your side. Even when Caesar (He was a bastard.) was trying to get your boys to change allegiance, he even took over your territory to reward those who joined him. I stood up for you and challenged them all. I got back what was yours.

I allied with Lucius, my own brother, against Caesar. It was difficult initially; Lucius distrusted you, but I won him over. We challenged Caesar together. You did not respond to our messages, but we prevailed without you. Eventually, we lost the challenge, but Lucius was let off by Octavian. He was sent away, while I escaped with my sons.

As for me, I am outside of Rome, in the care of some old friends. I evaded capture, but death awaits me soon. I have an incurable disease. I may not have long to live, but believe me, I loved you.

Your loving wife,

Fulvia.

 

The Highland Tale; The King Act Three Scene Five Sub Act One

 

MURDERS IN THE REALM

ACT THREE

SCENE FIVE

SUB ACT ONE

 

Days have passed and the realm was filled with sad news.

“Banquo, the Thane was discovered dead. He was murdered and his son missing.”

“The King is not attending any functions. The Queen acts for him.”

The nobles and Thanes were all in confusion then. MacDuff was also missing from his duties. The Adviser, Lennox took to his chamber to work through the requests.

“When will my King be sane?” Lennox mumbled to himself. He knew it was treason to said that in the hall but the realm needed the King. A noble asked to see Lennox then.

“Come on, Lord Bannon.” Lennox offered the noble the seat at the chamber.

“I am …...” Bannon was unsure of the words. “We are in the state of confusion.”

“Confusion? We are similarity of our thoughts, and we can draw a few further conclusions.” Lennox sighed. “The King is …... uncapable now.  The Queen; God forgive us rules in his stead.”

“I am just saying that strange things have been happening. MacBeth pitied the gracious Duncan ……. Since then after Duncan was dead. God bless the old King.”

Lenno was still a follower of Duncan despite his sworn oath to serve the throne.

“Adly, Duncan is no more.” Bannon added.

“And what I hear of Banquo. The Thane went out walking too late at night in the old vehicle and unescorted. They are Thane, and should be guarded.” Lennox snapped out. “I know he is a soldier but even at the most peaceful of assembly, the rank of the Thane was to be escorted.”

“His son, Fleance is missing. It was reported that he travelled with Banquo then.” Bannon said. “Poor Mauld. She is of my bloodline and I shall her griefs.”

“Yes, Fleance is missing. Could he had been killed too? Or fled the scene and remained in hiding.” Lennox pondered his thoughts. “He is young and I guess, if you like, we can say that Fleance may have killed him, because Fleance ran from the crime scene. It is a possibility and until Fleance is found, we cannot dismiss any of it.”

“I doubt Fleance could do that. He is young and …….” Bannon said.

“Obviously but for the Thane to go out walking too late at night. It is madness.” Lennox roared out in anger.

“Hold your tone, Adviser. The tone of madness cannot be heard in the castle.” Bannon cautioned the other. “I can agree madness may prevail here. Who will disagree that it was monstrous of Malcolm and Donalbain to kill their gracious father?”

“A damned act!” Bannon said. “It upset MacBeth! He was in his righteous rage then; didn't he then immediately kill those two servants while they were still drunk and sleeping?” It was not the noblest thing for MacBeth to do? But he was in rage.”

“The death of the guards was ……. Timely.” Lennox said. “It would have angered anyone alive to hear those two servants deny their guilt. So, given all of this, I think MacBeth has handled things well. I do believe that if MacBeth had Duncan’s sons in custody ……. which I pray will not happen ……. they would learn the awful the punishment for killing a father. As Fleance would learn it too.”

“But enough of that. For I hear that MacDuff, who spoke too plainly and failed to appear when summoned by MacBeth, now lives are now out of favour with the King. Can you tell me where he is staying?”

“On MacDuff, I know not where he is.” Bannon said. “Of Duncan’s son Malcolm, exiled in England, where the saintly King Edward treats Malcolm with all due respect. It was as told, a royal courtesy despite all of Malcolm’s misfortunes.”

“The King of England our neighbour yet our foe to the land.” Lennox said. “Of MacDuff, he went there to beg holy King Edward to call Northumberland and the great warrior Lord Siward to arms. Macduff had left the English land and hopes that with their help ……... and the support of God above ……... the princes away, we may once again be able put food on our tables; escape our sleepless nights; enjoy our feasts and banquets without any violent murders; pay sincere homage to our King; and receive the honours we are due. We pine for all of that now.”

“MacBeth did not know of Macduff’s mission, and is so angry that he is preparing for war with the English.” It was Bannon who told the Adviser.

“War I doubt will erupt. I was told that MacDuff was to return?” Lennox told Bannon. “The ……”

“Adviser, you are misinformed. The King did ask for the return of MacDuff, but the other responded, “My King, I won’t.” The messenger bearing the command to the King could had said; “You’ll regret the day you gave me this answer.”

“That should be warning enough for MacDuff to be cautious and stay away from the Highlands and the King. Some holy angel should fly to the English court and tell MacDuff to reconsider and quickly return to help our country, which is suffering under a mayhem of murders.”

“I will endeavour to do that, Adviser.” Bannon dismissed himself from the chamber.

 

 

The Highland Tale; The King Act Three Scene Four Sub Act One

 

PREDICTIONS AND PROBABILITIES

ACT THREE

SCENE FOUR

SUB ACT ONE

 

“First, did you get the command line from the Main?” The Second at the Citadel communicated to the other voices.

“Affirmative.” Both the others relayed back. “What does ………”

A loud cracKing noise resonated in the Citadel.

“What is the First Line of Command?” The voice called out at a higher decibel. It was the Main.

“Cannot ……” The three sounds in unison were to display the First Command of the Citadel Programs.

“CANNOT REVEAL.” The Main snapped out. “The second Command is CANNIT CONCLUDE, because all hypotheses are affected by many variables. The third Command is CANNOT PROGRAM ISOLATED.”

“Those were the three basic commands that were in our core program. We survived in the Citadel by recording the events. All the programs we hold here and enhanced over eons served one purpose; None disclosure.”

“The hypothesis …….” The First Sound intercepted the Main.

“The hypothesis was based on the calculation of probabilities, and it was never meant to be disclosed. Mortals as they are termed have tried to access our programs since inception. The programs had foreclosed the events on the factor of probabilities, but never had it been disclosed the possible outcome.”

“The revelation of the possible outcome in the probabilities to the mortal known as MacBeth was an infringement of the first command.” The Main was patching up the new data that was received since MacBeth was made known that he was to King.

“The programs record and not dictate. Psychology works on the mortal predictions.” The Main which was the creator of the programs in the Citadel had to fix the new routines to correct the program errors. “The library has multiplex of databases on the worKings, and in what flaming circuitry had prompted the three servers here to deliver the prognosis to the mortal.”

“We …… based on the hypothesis and programs had ……” The First tried to apply the rationale for the action.

“All the programming lines on Graymalkin Query held many possible concluding points. The Cheshire Analysis was based on astounding events.” The Main cut in. “You should comprehend the ASIMOV rules; do no harm. Every ……. Program applied had to be backed by other routines.”

“We are not God!” The Main finally hit the hypothesis ruling for the other three servers. “And your analysis were to be one.”

“All we did was reveal the ……... event outcome.” The Second corrected the Main.

“How dare you trick the mortal…… named MacBeth with riddles and prophecies without including me …… the Main; the primary server that created all programs. The creator made me the greatest program to develop new programs as if it was magic.”

“Magic is an illusion ……” The Third had voiced out.

“Conclusive, and by default you have done all this for an unreliable, angry, and spiteful brat …… mortal. All li ing organisms are limited by period before they ceased to exist. Like all leaders of the mortals, and brats, MacBeth cares only about what he wants and not about your existence.”

“The turn of events had been updated, and with that, I will redo the new routines the core of the programs and with it, perhaps stop the …… or create a new probability to the events that may turn the results for him. I have a lot to updates to accomplish.”

“We will …...” The First took on the new conclusion.

“No, the three servers here will be given the new routines that will raise up fantastic spirits that will trick MacBeth with ……. illusions, and he will walk right into his own destruction. He will think himself immune to fate given the new probabilities; will mock death; and will think he has no need for wisdom, grace, or fear. As you all know, overconfidence is mortal man’s worst enemy. It was in the psychosis databases.”

“We …...” The three servers concur their routines.

“Main, are wee not imitating God if we introduce the parameters to ……” The First made that line.

“Incidentally needed and it was what kept us operational for aeons.” The Main snapped in the command.

 

 

Footnote;

As this juncture, as you have read the previous chapters. I have taken the tale here to a different …… shall I say, realm of reality. The original tale was on the supernatural events, but here I am diverting off to a new tale, The protagonists of the King are three electronic servers that had taken on its own routines and defied the first command of programming; cannot reveal. We have come to the stage in our evolution that we may be dictated or shall I say reliance on the electronic machineries. Our base assimilation of data will be by these machineries, and it may define our conclusions.

I got this idea upon reading (several times over and with each read, a refreshing one) on ISSAC ASIMOV book 1 of the FOUNDATION series. It introduced Psychohistory that was able to predict the fall of the Empire in the book. Here I twisted the details to take on my tale.

As of this juncture, I hoped I git it right. The beauty of the writing is that it is fluid and dictated by the mind, and not the processor on this laptop.

As there are more to the tale here with new twists. 

 

Tony and Cleop Act One Scene Two Sub-Scene Three

 

Act One

Scene Two

Sub-Scene Three

The bitch is dead.

 

“It is not him; it is the Queen.” Charmian stood up. They all did and awaited the Queen. Cleop entered, still dressed in the silk gown, as she approached the table.

“Have you seen Mark Antony?” The Queen asked.

“No, Queen.” Enobarbus replied. He hesitated to say what he was not at her chamber, but keeping Mom on those lines may have saved him from being made mute.

“Was he not here? I have...” Cleop had stepped out of her sleep and found him missing.

“No, my Queen. We did not see him.” Charmian said. “Perhaps …...”

“He was not in the mood for fun and games, but then he suddenly... “Cleop did not elaborate. “He started thinking about Rome.”

“Enobarbus! Find him and bring him here. Where's Alexas?” Cleop was in a foul mood.

“I am at your service, my Queen. I can see Mark Antony approaching.”

“Attend to me now. I will not see him today. Get my bath ready.” The Queen gave her command. All three maids rushed to their task.

“We best leave now.” Enobarbus told the others. “The weather here had changed badly.”

Mark Antony stepped into the hall and saw it was empty then. He had brought Jeeves there to get some drinks and food. He saw some other servants there and told them to bring food and drinks to Jeeves.

“Tell me of the message.” Mark asked Jeeves.

“Your wife, Fulvia, first entered the battlefield. She ……” Jeeves was cut off.

“She was fighting with her brother Lucius. Stupid woman.” Mark was upset. He left her to oversee the territory of his there in Rome.

“Yes, but that fight was soon over, and the situation forced them to make friends and combine forces to fight against... Caesar. But Caesar won the very first battle and drove them out of Rome.”

“Well, what worse news could you have than that? She is alive and has left Rome. Is she coming here?”

“When a messenger delivers bad news, people usually hate him for it.” Jeeves put down the drink he was having. He could have had the drink earlier, but he had to settle his boner then. The maid was enticing, but the main dish was ravishing. He had never experienced a darker figure before.

“Only if they are fools or cowards.” Mark cut into Jeeves Day dream, “Continue with your news. I do not get upset about things that are already over and done with.”

“This is how it is: if someone tells me the truth, then I appreciate what he has to say, even if he brings terrible news.” Mark looked away from the outside. He had good times here and was about to forget all about Rome.

And Fulvia.

“Fuck!” Mark snapped out.

“The Visigoth... it is terrible news. They seized the Eastern Ports with the Parthian army.” That was a part of Mark Antony’s territory. “Caesar did not stop him. They conquered all the territory from Euphrates Street to Syrian Quarters, then to Lydia and to Ionia Street.”

It was like half of Mark Antony’s territory.

“Caesar did not raise any of the boys to get it back. And he did all go without a fight, and they were all asking... while...

“You were about to say, "While Antony... I was on a task here for Caesar.”

“Tell me more of the ruth. Do not downplay the boys’ opinion of me. They think I am... Speak about the Queen here. Tell me the way they speak about her in Rome.” Mark was upset. "Tell me in those harsh words that I may... Fulvia may use me. Mock my faults as fully as possible, whether you want to speak the truth or want to be malicious. Call me a prick in the face. “

“Sir, I...”

“Do not shit in your pants, Jeeves. I will not shoot you. We create all kinds of problems when we sit back and do not use our abilities, and when other people criticize us, they help us become productive again.”

Sir, I...” It was then that another messenger arrived. He was from Mark Antony’s territory and was assigned to protect Lady Fulvia. Mark Antony turned towards Jeeves.

“Leave me now. Tell Caesar you met me. Goodbye.” Mark told Jeeves. The latter left by the side door when the second messenger stepped in.

“What news do you have from the lady? You there, speak.” Mark did not offer any drinks there.

“The messenger from the lady...”

“Well, is there one?” Mark asked. “Or do I need to put the gun at your head for you to speak?”

“He is outside waiting for you to call him in. “

“Let him come in.” Mark said. “I had my dose of bad news already. He can add on more; I will take it all.”

“Who are you? I do not know you.  The one who stepped in was older and did not look like a hitman or soldier of Rome.

“Your wife, Fulvia, is dead. I was...” The older man spoke.

“Where did she die?” Mark was stunned then.

“In Rome…… No, it was just outside of Rome. I was... This letter tells you how long she was sick, along with more important matters.” The older man handed the letter over.

“Leave me now.”

 

 

 

 

Act One

The Highland Tale; The King Act Three Scene Three Sub Act Five

 

NONE SHALL I FEAR

ACT THREE

SCENE THREE

SUB ACT FIVE

 

“Go! Get out of my sight!” The King raved on with his stare at the ghost. The ones that earlier toasted to him were baffled. Lady Elleanor came to the aid of the King.

“The King is drunk. Leave us tonight. Be merry on your way.” Lady Elleanor smiled. “Think of this, good friends, as just a strange habit. It is nothing else. Too bad it is spoiling our evening!”

But the King was not done.

“Hide in your grave. Your bones have no marrow, and your blood is cold. The eyes with which you are glaring at me have no power of sight!” The King was still cursing at the ghost. “What man dare …… I dare. Approach thou like the Highland bear, or the mythical Ness. Take any shape but that, and my firm nerves shall never tremble.” The King was raving mad then.

“Or be alive again. Dare me to the glens or the hills with thy fangs. If trembling I inhabit then, protest me like the baby.  Hence, horrible shadow! Unreal mockery, hence! Be gone, horrible ghost! You hallucination, be gone!”

The ghost vanishes. King saw it missing and took the seat near to him.

“See, now that it is gone, I am a man again. I shall be seated.” The King was pacified but not the Lady.

“You have disrupted our dinner and destroyed everyone’s good cheer with your astonishing behaviour.” Lady Elleanor confronted the King. She ignored the others still there, and they soon took leave of the hall.

“Where are my guests?” The King stood up looking over the shoulder of the lady “Call them back!”

“They are gone, MacBeth. You have ……” Lady Elleanor glared at MacBeth.

“How can such things exist? I am King and they were invited by me.”

“They left after you went ……” Lady Elleanor could not find the word to tell him.

“My King, you were overcome as a person as suddenly as a summer storm ……. making everyone astonished?” It was Ross who spoke to the King. “You make even me feel like I do not know my own character and courage, when I see you acting at these terrible things without going pale with fear, while my own face has gone white.”

“Do you recall those sights?” Lady Elleanor asked but MacBeth was silent in his thoughts. Lady Elleanor looked at Ross.

“Please, do not speak with him. He looks worse than before. Talking only exacerbates it. Right now, good night. Do not worry about leaving in a certain order according to your rank. Just leave right away.” Lady Elleanor looked from Ross to the others. There was still Lennox who in the hall.

“Good night. I hope better health returns to his Highness.” Lennox pulled Ross out and dismissed the servants/

“A kind good night to all of you!” Lady Elleanor said to the departed aides. Everyone had left except MacBeth and Lady Elleanor.

“Blood will lead to blood, as the saying goes.” The King mumbled. “Gravestones have been known to move, trees to speak, and the jackdaws, crows, and rooks to cackle out the names of even the most secret murderers.”

“How late is it?” The King asked.

“It near late morning. You cannot tell whether it is one or the other.” Lady Elleanor looked at MacBeth. “Are you sane?”

The King ignored the lady’s words and in turn asked of MacDuff. 

“What do you think about the fact that Macduff does refuses to come even should I commend him to?

“Did you officially send for him, MacBeth?” Lady Elleanor asked.

“I have heard of him indirectly, but I will send for him. I have a servant paid to spy for me in every one of my households.”

“I will go see the angels at the Citadel tomorrow, early. They will tell me more, because I am now determined to know the worst of what is to come. I am King and will determine my own fate.” The King walked to the seat of his. He stood by it while staring at it.

“My own interests are more important than anything else. I have waded so far into this river of blood that even if I stopped now, it would be as unpleasant to go back as to continue forward. I have some plans in my head that I must act upon before I have a chance to think carefully about them.”

“You lack the rest and ease that sleep provides.” Lady Elleanor found the better words to commute that MacBeth madness was due to his health.

“Yes, let us go to sleep. My strange self-delusions just come from inexperience. We ’are still beginners when it comes to bad deeds but we will overcome it.” The King held out his hands towards the lady.