XX here .... I was asked

 Dear Jimmy, 

Where do you get your ideas to write?

My reply is here.

If I were to borrow from a great writer which I had read his books a long time ago, his words discovered by me lately, speaks of the way a novel could be created. 

Ideas are like rabbits. You get a couple and learn how to handle them, and pretty soon you have a dozen. – John Steinbeck

I do not have any planned script but only a keyboard and many ideas (some times) from an image, a word, or just wild imaginaition, I will take it upon myself to fantasies and then write. If I do not, i might forget it. My memory is like the RAM in the computer; it remained only then until the power is turned off. 

What I may pen down are my dreams, my aspirations and on many occassions my darkest thoughts. To be honest, it can be embarassing to relate in person to another. I guess I hid myself behind the tale. 

So be it, I have reveal enough for now. 

Cheers

HAPPY HALLOWEEN..... Just completed my new tale.  

The Loyal Lieutenants Act Four Scene One Sub Scene Two

 

Act Four

Scene One

Sub-Scene Two

Caesar’ said

 

Caesar held the meeting at the library with his lieutenants; they were Agrippa, Menas and Lepidus. Mark was invited there too. Jeeves served the drinks and left the chamber.

“I am to leave for Egypt for stay. I am intrigue by the influence of Rome to be there.” Caesar looked to the gathered. “In my absence, all three of you will share the responsibility here. All decisions will be with the vote and the majority command.”

Caesar knew that the three will joust for influence. He does not trust Menas for the lieutenant was once with Pompey.  Lepidus was a neutral in the trio; he had not shown any affliction to any Consult members and may needed his scrutiny. He has faith with Agrippa; the devoted lieutenant of his.

“If ever all three of you needed to discuss matters outside, that person will be Mark Antony. He will act as my liaison to the three of you.”

That appointment surprised the trio for Mark Antony was not a member of the trusted circle of Caesar.

“I want Mark to be Consulted on if ever you need a fresh view.” Caesar looked at the trio. He knew by declaring Mark there, he was providing them a wedge in the trio, but it was his way of sharing power. He needed Mark to be the unknown factor in the trio during his absence.

“Caesar, we could always reach you ……” Trust for Menas to voice out.

“You could but the need for quick decision needed all three of you to act and if there is a stalemate, Mark will be my ……... intervening voice. “

Mark was stunned by the appointment. He was away most times from Rome to handle the delicate tasks.

“Caesar, if I may……” Mark was to speak but Caesar continued.

“I placed my faith in Mark to be ……. Decisive. He had handled some tasks of ours and came back with good results.” Caesar looked at the trio. “His inexperience at Rome needs your guidance.”

“Be aware of Pompey, Cicero, and ……... some other Consul members. They may have Rome in their heart but not me. I trust you will all work to avoid that.” Caesar smiled. “I may be away for one season or two, so keep the Romans at the helm of things at Rome.”

Caesar dismissed the trio but Mark was asked to stay.

“Yu may be surprised that I asked you to be the fourth member of the new triumvirate of Rome.” Caesar smiled.

“You did not say ……” Mark was cut off.

“Triumvirate? Yes, I did not mention that. The trio can manage Rome well, but they need a fresh perspective as I do. You done a great job with the Sicilians. Now, I need to strengthen Rome's's influence in the South East, and Egypt will be the beginning.” Caesar looked at Mark.

“I will be direct. Rome is secured for now. The Romans ruled supreme, but we are one too many. The Sicilian was to engage us in war, but your negotiations averted that. Besides them, we have the Visigoths, the Muddles, and the Tongs, along with Pompey. He has been relieved of his role as Consul, but he held the influence of many there. Brutus is one whom he befriends. And, Cicero, you wife’s enemy.”

“Our last was the civil war between me, Pompey, and Crassus caused us more damage than was reported. We lost the loyalty of some of the boys and split between factions. The war ended fast, and we learned the truth from our enemies. If the others knew, the Romans would be attacked.”

“Pompey knew that and promised me that he would keep his boys with the Romans. He knew that if he went on his own, he would be taken over by the others. We swore an oath to keep the Romans the power in Rome.”

“The Consuls remained but smaller in numbers to better control them, but they are still split by factions. Brutus leads one faction to overthrow me. Pompey remains on the sidelines for the battle.”

“Who do you trust, Caesar?” Mark asked.

“No one. Not even you, but we are soldiers of the Romans. Legionnaires, we took an oath to protect each other. I trust you will remember the oath.” Caesar smiled. “I have my faith in Enobarbus and maybe Lepidus, but not Menas. I kept Menas neat to know what he was up to.”

“And Brutus?” Mark asked. 

“Brutus Sextus and myself go along way long way back. We are like...like... blood brothers but not Legionnaires.” Caesar smiled. “I hold another secret to share with you. I have a half-brother, younger in age named Octavia. He is away doing his studies. If I am to die, he will be the next Caesar. That is my legacy.”

Mark was disappointed there. Why would Julius Caesar not appoint one of the Consul members to be the next Caesar? Why the unknown half-brother?

“Mark, I trust you will be at his side.” Caesar made the line toward Mark. “As a Legionnaire, you will carry out the oath.”

“I ……” Mark was confused.

“I know you are confused. Please believe in me. One day, you will have your own territory to rule. Perhaps east of Rome and Octavia in the west, where he will be Emperor but he will not intrude on your territory. You will however, ensure that with him all of Rome will always have the Romans as supreme.”

“What of Pompey, Fulvia, and Cicero?" Cicero?" Mark asked.

“I like you for thinking ahead. Anyone who is not your friend is your enemy.” Caesar smiled. “I entrust it to you, Enobarbus. He can be trusted.”

“I have not spoken to him on the case of Moses. And Issac.” Mark looked away. “We were......”

“Find out who shot you. It could be any of the names I mentioned here.” Caesar told Mark. “Do be careful. And do not even trust Fulvia. She may be your wife, but she has her own plans. Cicero is a fence sitter. He will lean on whoever is winning, except Fulvia.”

“Look up the new Treasury Agent. They know more than we do at times.” Caesar said.

“I am leaving for Egypt tomorrow.”

 

 

The Loyal Lieutenants Act Four Scene One Sub Scene One

 

Act Four

Scene One

Sub-Scene One

Remembrance and Remedy

 

Elliot stood a distance from the uniformed officers at the funeral. He felt himself as an outsider and decided to remain inconspicuous. He saw the captain looking at him during the speech, praising the loss of a good officer, and the attendees were about two dozen nodding their heads. The speech went on like this.

“Law enforcement is a unique endeavor; some would say it is a profession, while most involved would say it is a calling. It is a noble calling for the protection of our community. It is a service to make a difference in the community. No one shall ever question that service or remain silent on our role here in law enforcement.”

“This is the work of Frank ‘Best’ Bastile, one of our best. Our tasks are inherently dangerous, with the unknown out on the street every moment. We do fear confronting any suspicious acts or danger, guarding the weak, and removing the treacherous. Frank was one such officer.”

“The turnout today is not only a tribute to their service in our community but an acknowledgment of the amazing individuals that they were. It is a testament to the impact that they have had on their families, friends, and the community.”

“His squad mates gave him the nickname "Best Player"; he was ranked as one of the elites, and his soccer skills are unrivaled. Just as in his works, he played well for the team, although in soccer, we ranked the lowest in Rome. Play on, ‘Best’. We will win on the ranks one day.”

It was the usual tears from the ladies, while some kids took their fun running around the tombstones. The ceremony ended with a gun salute and the final wailing of the ladies. Elliot saw the captain approaching him.

“Good……” Elliot was cut off by the captain.

“Elliot, your boss called me. You are to remain here till further notice.” The captain told Elliot. “There will be no local partners for you. You are on your own.”

“I …….” Elliot was to protest when the captain added.

“I am without any spare officers. More to it, with Best gone, you are a pariah in the precinct. So was Lucas.” The captain looked at Elliot. “Get some bandages ready in your pockets. You may need it.”

“And just to let you know this: The Muddles are looking for you. The best was your partner.” The captain walked away.

Elliot was confused as the captain walked away. Was he to continue with the investigation, pack up, or go back to his other role? He decided to pack his bags and leave the work.

Across the city, Enobarbus was seated in an armchair in his living area. He was still in his bathrobe over his nightwear and nursing the glass of water to take with his medicine. He had complained to the doctor that he was fine.

“It was a nick on the flesh.” But the doctor was insistent. Unknown to him, he was also testing for heart ailments. Caesar was told of the condition.

“Dear, I am to go out now.” His lovely wife of twenty years, or was it shorter, but he was not counting at all. She registered her name as Jean Mortenson. For all he cared, she could be any Jane Doe, but he needed a wife then. Soon they were married, and the daughter came much later. There was love, some sex, and, on occasion, the silent stares, but Enobarbus was more married to his work. She knew his work, but it was the money that mattered. Enobarbus did not care much, for Vera, his wife, was a former dancer on the stage and needed to feel the glamour of the scene. His wife alternates between their daughter and the pet named Lover for the numerous activities, including a huge walk-in closet with dresses and gowns.

Enobarbus saw a cat named Lover being rubbed against his left leg by his wife.

‘Oh, beware, my lord, of jealousy!
It is the green-eyed monster that mocks
The meat it feeds on.’ (Othello by Shakespeare.).

“Boss, can we talk to you?’ It was three of his boys: Albert Buddy, Castella Louis, and Chapin Spenser. Enobarbus nodded.

“We followed her.” Albert reported then. Chapin imitated their mode of walking as if it were hiding behind the vehicles and lamp posts. “She did not see us. She was uncaring at all.”

No one dares to approach Enobarbus’ lady unless they want to end up dead in the alley. Or be having incontinence for the rest of their lifetime.

“She went to a few places: cafes and stores, and always to the small tailor shop. We could get in there but had a... Albert was cut off.

“She was there with the tailor for a long time—an hour or more.” Castella was cut in. “We …….”

“We checked, and she is...” Albert took back his cue.

“Enough! Give me the address, and I will take care of it. Not a word out.” The boys knew their sworn silence. Enobarbus dismissed them and then stopped Albert.

“Take the cat. Roll it over dead.” Albert grabbed the cat and left with the others.

“On the street in front of the house.” Enobarbus called out to the departing boys. “Fuck you, lover.”

He then picked up the book on Shakespeare plays. He knew the passage he was to read. He saw that the spine of the book was frayed from the constant reading that he did.

“You are Hermia.” (Hermia is one of the three sisters in the Midsummer play by Shakespeare.)

“O me! You juggler, you canker blossom, you thief of love! What, have you come by night and stolen my love’s heart from him?” Enobarbus spoke of the passage that he had read many times.

“Daddy! Lover died. She was run down on the street.” His daughter came rushing in with tears.

“I am so sorry, but the cat must have used up all its nine lives.” The father told the young girl. “We all wished we had one more extra life.”

 

The Loyal Lieutenants Act Zero Scene Four

 

Act Zero

Scene Four

 

Liam Neeson stopped the truck he was driving. It is an International Model H 3/4-ton with the two seats in the front and the Renault-style sloping, coffin-shaped hood. The driver in the open cab is bundled up against the cold weather, as in the open compartment in the front. He was dressed in his work clothes, the dark overall, zippered in the front to the neckline, and rubber boots. He had just transported the crates of frozen beef to the grocers when he got the message that Best was looking for him. They had thumped Copra’s team a half dozen goals, though Best was not in the winger position.

Liam stepped off the truck near the farmhouse, where he was to meet Best. He saw the other person waiting there with another figure. He fingered his right pocket on the overall for the revolver he pocketed there.

“What gives, ‘Best’? Another newcomer I need to meet?”

“Nay, I brought a mutual acquaintance.” Best motioned to the figure standing behind him by the T-Ford they came in. “He is from Rome.”

“Romans huh? I had never seen you before.”

“You may not be. He just returned from Rome.” Best looked at Liam. “We are here to talk about Lucas.”

“Lucas? That gobshite is history. We left the rumours that he was done by us, but we did not touch a hair.” Liam shook his head. “Why are you keen to bring it up?”

“Well, the Romans felt that the records must be right. He was on their payroll.” Best looked at the other.

“Lucas was taking every bit of crumbs he could get, including mine. I needed him to turn a blind eye on the shipments.” Liam was cursed out. “He was gobshite.”

“I know, but still, he was in the Romans’ books. With him gone, the new agent arrived, and that guy is harder to handle.” Best sighed. “Elliot Ness is wet behind the ear, and...”

Liam never saw the shot that ruined his lunch. The bullet tore the stomach and damaged the liver. He slummed forward, and the next shot took him in the face.

“Damn, Menas. We were supposed to talk.” Best turned towards the figure who shot the Muggle leader.

“I lied. Caesar wanted him dead.” Menas stepped toward the dead leader. “He was a loose end on the hit.”

“I am a copper and...”

“We cannot do any hits with you as a witness.” Menas levelled the gun at Best. “The Forty-Five calibre does not leave much for your mother to recognize you.”

“Hold on, Menas. I …….”

“It is Mr. Menas to you, Copper.” Menas drew his rank.

“Okay, Sir. I say we leave now. I know Liam would have told his boys about his meeting. If he does not turn up, they will be looking for me.”

“Unfortunately.” Menas shot Best in the chest. “Dead men tell no lies.”

Menas then took the gun he was holding and placed it in Best’s right hand. He took out Liam’s gun and fired a shot into the field. Once that was done, he walked out of the field to the road, where another vehicle awaited him.

“It is done. I ended the Muggles end. We can now go back.” Menas got into the vehicle.

“You are telling Brutus this?”

“It is my role to keep him informed, Lepidus. You just keep on the good side of Caesar.” Menas tooms the other revolver from the bottom of the seat.

“Darn, that was one of my favourite guns.”

 

The Loyal Lieutenants Act Three Scene Two Sub Scene Two

 

Act Three

Scene Two

Sub-Scene Two

When is a fuck not one?

 

“We had an arrangement, Julius. You keep Cicero off my back, and I will consolidate your influence on Curio boys towards you.” Fulvia stormed into the library. She closed the door on her entry and faced the boss there. Julius was reading the reports on Egypt. At that personal library of his, he was wearing his reading glasses.

“Fulvia, this……” Julius took off the glasses. “Where is Jeeves? I was not to be...

“I know your personal sanctum. I am here to talk to you on Cicero.” Fulvia stood before Caesar. She was in her element—the riding suit with the wide-brimmed hat, the dark jacket, and the breeches with the high boots. She held the leather horse whip in her left hand. Unlike her, Caesar was in his toga.

“And what about him do I need to know?” Caesar was upset.

“He was seen in Rome and near my children’s school. I want him out.”

“I will see to that. Now can you leave?” Caesar was to dismiss her.

“Mark was shot at today.” Fulvia looked at Julius. “Just now. I saw him downstairs.”

“No, I did not know. I was...”

“Never know it all, Caesar. I will take my leave now.” Fulvia turned to leave. “You can continue with your female fatales.”

“I ……” Caesar was without a reply, and the lady had stepped out of the library.

“I should have the door latched.” Caesar sighed.

“You should.” The voice came from underneath the table. “I think your desire is back to lame.”

Julius looked below and smiled.

“I am afraid it is. That will be coitus moratus (latin for coitus delayed).” Julius reached down with his hands to pull the lady up onto the table. She was Lady Servilia, his previous tutor, and the mother of Marcus Brutus; his young days rivaled for love. She was dressed in a loose and longer tunic than the men's toga, which went down to their ankles and fastened at the shoulders. Her long hair was braided and reached her hips.

“I see that you are going to teach me now.” The lady smiled when she raised her legs to the side rails of the chair while pulling up the hem. Caesar, like a good student, applied his techniques.

“Quicquid in nobis est, id quod sentit, cogitat, desiderat, animat, coeleste, divinum est, ac per hoc incorruptibile.” (Whatever is within us that feels, thinks, desires, and animates is something celestial, divine, and, consequently, imperishable; quote by Aristole.) Lady Servilia moans these words.

“Do not stop. I am....” The lady leaned back on the tabletop.

“Nunc inseram desiderium meum." (Now I shall insert my desire.) Caesar stood up.

“Quid, obsecro?” (Need I beg?) The lady was ready for that. She reached up and unfastened the stola strings for her lover.

“Do in me difficile tuum Lectio latina.” (Do your Latin lesson hard into me.) The lady moaned, and he turned her vocals to the peak of silent screams.

After all, walls have ears.

But silent mouths.

“Jeeves, did my mother come? It was Brutus who had just arrived.

“Yes, I believe she did.” Jeeves looked at Brutus. “Latin lessons?”

“Tell her I am here.” Brutus told him. “I need to get to the bathroom. Long drive.”

“Second door to the right and down the corridor before...” Jeeves was ignored because Brutus was in dire need of the bathroom.

The Loyal Lieutenants Act Three Scene Two Sub Scene One

 

Act Three

Scene Two

Sub-Scene One

Mark’ gets his mark

 

Mark sat at the corner in the café, enjoying the hot, brewed coffee. He was back in Rome, and that was his first drink in the city. He traveled light as the single bodyguard, newly assigned to him when he returned to Rome, and was driving the T-Ford. The bodyguard named Pietro was a migrant from the bigger continent and a proven ring fighter with his huge biceps. The guard was standing outside by the vehicle.

“There are no clues to the murder of Roman’s lieutenant.” That was the headline in the newspaper. It was by an independent newspaper agency called Independence, operated by an ex-copper who retired to report the news in print. He had avoided the threats and bribes, going it alone with the small circulation. His prints were read by the selected but influenced the families, for they held no punches back.

“Boss, sorry. I was caught up with family affairs.” Enobarbus took the seat opposite Mark at the table. It was a bad position, for he would not be able to see the entrance and the kitchen door. In the lifetime of the hitman, his well-being depended on being careful. The café was well selected by Mark; it was not packed then, with the early afternoon patrons at work or having left after lunch. There was one other table occupied: two middle-aged ladies gossiping while doing their knitting, and a huge bag on the table.

“What did you find out about Moses’ death?” Mark asked without looking at the enobarbus. He was watching the happenings at the café. He heard of many deaths caused by the carelessness of not observing.

“Some buildup. I met Pompey and got news about Moses visiting Egypt. He was also friends with Lucas Perry, the dead agent. I am...”

“Egypt? Why is Moses going there? I never heard of Egypt till yesterday.” Mark looked toward the enobarbus. "What do the ladies from Egypt look like?”

“I would not know, Boss.”

It was then that Mark saw the ladies stand up and draw from their bags the sawn-off shotguns, barrel and stock held by both hands. He had seen those guns when he was with the Sicilians.

"Short, but when inserted up into you, it will leave you empty in the bowels.”

Mark reached under the papers for the concealed revolver of his with this right hand, while his left hand pulled Enobarbus by the right side of the head to duck down. He fired first at the ladies, and the first shot hit the lady in the right chest. The second shot went wide when the other lady replied with the shotgun. Enobarbus had dropped off the seat on instinct and got the shot nicked at his left arm. Mark fired the second shot, which impacted the lady’s face.

“What the…….” Pietro rushed in with his pistol drawn. His sudden appearance there and the drawn gun got him shot by Mark with the third shot in the chest. He went down dead.

Mark recovered on his reflexes, grabbed the Enobarbus, and fled by the front doorway. He took the vehicle parked there and drove with the Enobarbus.

“Boss,……..."“

“Stay there. You are shot. We are not out of danger.” Mark called out. He was watching the rear to check if any others were trailing him.

There was no one in pursuit.

Mark headed to the mansion, and once there, Enobarbus was treated for the wound. When he was going to see Caesar, he met Fulvia there.

“Why are you here?” Mark asked.

“I came to find you.” Fulvia replied. “You looked...”

“Someone tried to kill me. I barely escaped.” Mark told her. “Wait here. I will see Caesar, and then we can go home.”

Mark did not wait for the reply and took him to the library. He met Agrippa there, who was discussing it with Menas. He told them about the shooting.

“I will get the boys to find out who it was.” Menas took to calling the others. Agrippa looked at Mark,

“Do you recognize them?” Agrippa offered Mark a drink.

“No, I did not. They looked new in town but acted casually to be there. I was suspicious, but it happened so fast.”

“Who else knew you would be there?” Menas asked.

“I do not know. I used to go there, and this afternoon, I did mention... Pietro... No, he told me to go there. Said something about their coffee. I followed him there. I told him to leave a message for Enobarbus to meet me there.”

“Who sent the message?” Menas asked.

“I do not know. One of the messengers will know.” Messages were sent by a couple of assigned boys in the mansion. “It was... the way they knit. It was not right.”

Jeeves walked in then and whispered to Agripa.

“Pietro is dead. The coppers are there at the café too.” Agrippa sighed. “We will need to contain this incident. Caesar need not know.”

“Why was Fulvia here? Was she...” Mark asked.

“I would not ……” Menas shook his head.

“She met Caesar at the other library.” Jeeves spoke out. “I took her there.”

“Any idea what it was about?” Mark asked. His reply was silence. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Loyal Lieutenants Act Three Scene One Sub Scene Three

 

Act Three

Scene One

Sub-Scene Three

Egypt never leaves empty

 

Ptolemy paced the train on his return to Egypt. He was nervous about Rome. He had bad dealings with the southern gangs looking to take over his lucrative business. He could battle them alone, but with Rome as his ally, he will hold the upper hand on the dealing.

“Mardian, how did the other meetings go?’ Ptolemy looked to the loyal guard of his besides the Medjay assigned to him, as the Pharoah’s personal guards.

“I met Pompey, and he was …… evasive in his commitments. He may be our liaison on the shipments but to be an ally of ours, he was no committing.” Mardian reported to the Pharoah. “I had offered him an increase of our rates but he was still not committed.”

“Does he know that we are in Egypt? We have used the wharf to clear our wares. We paid the authorities to turn a blind eye. We paid his boys to use the warehouses.” The Pharoah was upset.

“He knows but he ……. I think he fear Rome……... Sorry, I meant Caesar.” Mardian said.

“Who have we left?” The Pharoah asked.

“No others. The bigger families will not come down south. The frontier gangs are either at us as foes, or waiting like the crocodiles.” Mardian laid out their options. “We need the assistance of Rome.”

“Or our friend we are to meet.” The Pharoah heard the train pulled up at the station. He was good at the clandestine meets and that was to be one.

“Pharoah, I am glad we meet.” The Pharoah was standing by the wagon window looking to the rail tracks there. He had out on the kilt-like skirts or loincloths with the necklaces of gold jewelleries.

“You are dressed …. well.” The guest stepped into the wagon. He was dressed in the simple toga favoured by the Romans.

“Consul Brutus, welcome to my travelling palace.” The Pharoah smiled. “It is named Willie Wagon. My sister loved the film they were producing for the movie theatre, Willie Steamboat. That was where we got the cool air equipment.”

The first modern air conditioner was invented in 1902 by Willis Haviland Carrier, a skilled engineer who began experimenting with the laws of humidity control to solve an application problem at a printing plant in Brooklyn, NY.

“Beautiful.” Brutus smiled though he disliked the noise from the equipment.

“Call me Brutus. We are friends here.” Brutus took the seat near the Pharoah. “Do you mind if my guards are just outside?”

Ptolemy nodded. He knew that Mardian was there and outside of the wagon was his personal Medjay guards.

“Ptolemy is my name. Call me that, Brutus.” The host offered a drink to the Consul. “Sangria?”

Sangria is an iconic Spanish drink loved around the world. There are heaps of versions, but the classic recipe is made with red wine, brandy or vermouth, sliced apples and oranges, and sparkling soda. A crowd-pleasing pitcher of sangria is the perfect drink to share with friends.

“I heard you met Caesar.” Brutus was on track to complete his purpose. “Julius Caesar.”

“He is Rome.” Ptolemy smiled. “When in Rome, you meet Caesar, right?”

“He is, and so are us in the Consul.” Brutus lowered his glass. “Nevertheless, you should meet him first.”

“Second, Brutus. Your messenger told me to meet him before I meet you. I met your messenger first, Caesar and now you.”

“Aha…... Menas is a loyal lieutenant.” Brutus took a sip of the drink. “Like a good wine, you need to let it aged over the years …… after a good harvest.”

“Tell me did he take your offer?” Brutus pressed on.

“Who? Caesar? He did. And he will come over soon.” Ptolemy smiled.

“I will get the issue you have with the migrants resolved. The unions with the Tongs will not bother you anymore.” Brutus smiled. “You will prosper, Pharoah.”

“Et tu, Brute?” (You too, Brutus?)

“Not this time. I am …… I have other plans.” Brutus smiled.

“Who will go with him?” Ptolemy asked.

“I would not know. Caesar has his favourites. Maybe Agrippa, Lepidus or Menas……. I doubt Menas. Caesar does not like him. He is just one of the old boys.” Brutus smiled. “Ah…… Maybe Mark Antony.”

“Who is Mark Antony?’ Ptolemy asked.

“Let me tell him, you cannot trust him with your sister.” Brutus laughed. “He is the serpent in the garden.”

“Unless he is a huge serpent, my sister may not like him.” Ptolemy laughed. “Ah…. I have a gift for you, my Roman friend.”

“I do not deserve……” Brutus was stunned at the gift.

“It is a Webley 1908 with an added contraption …... a silencer to suppress the noise.” Ptolemy laughed. “From ‘bang bang’ to pheet.”

The pistol was in a silver case, with the spare ammo clip.

“The pistol itself, a Model 1908 Webley; hammer-fired, blowback semi-automatic chambered in .32 ACP. It improved on being slimmer and having some internal simplifications/improvements. The silenced model here had its front sight removed, as it was intended for short range use.”

(https://www.historicalfirearms.info/post/178426771949/m1908-webley-pistol-m1929-parker-hale-silencer)

“The silencer, the ‘Parker Maxim silencer M1929’ had a standard length of 6.75 inches and weighed a weighty 10 ounces. The silencer barrel of the host weapon had to be threaded to fit the M.M.2.”

“You are knowledgeable in guns, Ptolemy.” Brutus praised the other.

“One of my idle moments to study the new items.” Ptolemy smiled. “I was told that President Roosevelt has a few.”

“Do tell me, how will this work? I mean its heavy and …….” Brutus looked at Ptolemy.

“Still concealable but silent. It will be favoured gun attachment for the killers. No loud noise and then hear the distant sirens of the coppers.”

“Indeed…...” Brutus took hold of the gun. “Ideal for an assassination. Et tu, Pharoah?” (You too, Pharoah?)

“I had my share of that. Most times, my boys or girls will do it for me. I am more of a squitter.” Ptolemy laughed while he humped his hips.

“Me too? I made the needed arrangement on the agent’s case. It will be cleaned all the loose ends.” Brutus smiled.

“And on your request, I have done mine. Caesar will be without his loyal lieutenants.” Ptolemy smiled. “And now to Caesar on his journey to Egypt. The season to feed the crocodiles is ripe.” 

 

 

X whispering ..... something brewing in the pot

 Extract

Some days during OCT 2024, after a lapse of ‘blank creativity’, the urge of typing prompted the mind to rebuilt its function….

“Another of your sexual’ fantasy, Doctor?” The distinguished attendee interrupted the professor on his presentation. “Or your superego? I take your presumptions; if I may say that to describe your... theories are unfounded on factual evidence. I …...”

“From my own works and those collaborated by others, the personality of the person is a sequence of mental patterns; collective unconscious that are ingrained in them through memories and learnings. It is integrating to be a part of their self-realization.”

“I stand...” The professor intervened there.

“Clearly, you do hold a stand on your ego, but mine is based on research and factual evidence.” The doctor paused to clear his throat with the whopping, loud cough. He then blew his nose to the annoyance of some others. “Medically unproven. Like how a doctor will diagnose with...”

“I am a doctor...” The professor had to intervene rudely there.

And murders were common.

“I am aware there were concerns about the murder cases of recent weeks, but these are isolated occurrences; it was, but we will take precaution with more cobber to the patrols.” An assurance of the precinct leaders to the city.

“Sergeant, there are already a dozen in the last weeks.” The reporter of a popular journal had raised this during the briefing attended by the city’s concerned members. “We can read the crime rates are still as high with thieving and burglaries, but murders of these ladies...”

No one gets overly worried about the death of their father’s or brother’s than that of their mother’s or sister’s; it will streak across the printed papers like a storm.

“As mentioned, we will take the needed precautions. The dwellers of the city are also advised to stay off the streets to avoid any untoward incidents.” The statement of the sergeant was not taken as cautionary advice but as an insult then.

“Sergeant, I work till the later part of the evening. Are you telling me I shall go back earlier? Who will feed my family then?” The lady who sells the flowers to the kind gentlemen that strolls the streets in the evening bellowed. “My man, James Freddie; he is your pal too, is a bum at home and not even a good hump for my bum too.”

Tally Ho for now

The Loyal Lieutenants Act Three Scene One Sub Scene Two

 

Act Three

Scene One

Sub-Scene Two

Elliot and Lucas

 

The Muddles were isle based with the recruits from the immigrants off the boats. They came to the new land with lots of promises, and fantasies but found nothing more than the same hardship of their ancestry homes. They landed mostly in the northern coasts but made their way down and into the interior. It was still the promising country but the longing to be with their own, prompted them to find their kins.

“Do not be the ‘Gowl’ (Annoying person).” The group had gathered at the tavern; it was more of a liquor shop but the local boys called it the tavern. The sign outside says it all; the John Silver’s Tavern; the spot to drink and get drunk and if you can afford it, Ol’Martha will share her bedding for a dollar or more. She is no ‘Feek’(Gorgeous Girl) but she could blushed the freckles off your cheeks.

“I am no Gowl.” The one accused of threw back his own. “Nor a ‘muppet’ (For a fool) but ‘yoke’ (The reference of thing), Luke was not my friend.”

“Lucas was his name. And he is not a ‘sham’ (friend) of ours.” The one who was leading the talk spoke. “I threw the dead rabbit and he left without a word. So, he is no ‘sham’ of mine.” (The Dead Rabbits were so named after a dead rabbit was thrown into the centre of the room during a gang meeting, prompting some members to treat this as an omen, withdraw, and form an independent gang.)

It was then Best walked into the so named tavern. He was followed on by Elliot. It was Best’s idea to let him take point.

“Hush, the ‘copar’ (Copper) is here.” One of the gathered whispered out.

“It is Frankie “Best.” I can vouch for him.” The leader of the gathered called out. His nickname given was Centre Forward. “Hey, Frankie. You here for the Saturday’s game?”

“Nay, Liam. I brought me a ‘copar.’ He is from upstate and …… new to Rome.” Best motioned to Elliot. “Elliot Ness his name.”

“Elliot, is he? From the highlands I will say. I knew an Elliot from there; the Elliot River over at Angus.” Liam looked at Elliot. “He got killed in the War of Independence. Fought for the wrong side. Got himself a third eye.”

“I am Norwegian.” Elliot stepped up, and offered his right hand to greet.

“Lochlann. I never met one of your kind before. Not since my grand paddy told me the Vikings came from there and invaded us on the isle.” Liam took the hand. “That was ages ago. Now we are …… all migrants here.”

“I …. I was born here. My parents ……” Elliot defended his birth place.

“Ever a Lachlann, always a Lachlann. Just as I am of the Isle and to die, I will be as one.”  Liam roared out. He then turned towards Best. “Liam Neeson.”

“Why did you come? The game we beat you all; the goals and the fistful of punches thereafter.” Liam placed on the smile towards Best. “Copar does not drink hard as we do.”

“He wants to meet the ……. Muddles.” Best looked away to the others. “I ……”

“Never think, mate. Thinking makes you a stranger here. We best work with our fists or out drink the other. That is not thinking but thinning the resistance.” Liam hissed at Best. “You are getting dafty up there.”

“I am here to ask on Lucas Perry.” Elliot stepped in.

“Do not know the name.” Liam looked at Best. “Are you Gobshite? (Stupid or incompetent person. Gobshite is chiefly Irish slang.)

“He is no ‘gimp’ (Idiot). I asked of him to take me to see the Muddles.” Elliot cut in. “All I wanted to know …....”

“Copar, we did not ‘meil’ (waste) him. He was acting the maggot there, and someone did us the favour.
 Liam smiled.

“The words where it was the …….” Elliot was cut off.

“He heard it was the Muddles.” Best said. “And ….”

“Muddles, we are but we did not harm the gowl. He was done by some others and left here on our turf.” Liam looked upset. “Some of the others think we are their prey, but the Muddles will take on anyone at any place. Including the Romans.”

“Liam, the Romans are …...” Best stood in for the Romans.

“If you see Caesar, tell that to him. We are not afraid of him.” Liam was to prove his bravado. “The lads will stand with me.”

“Who remove Lucas Perry?” Elliot pressed on his luck.

“Try the eunuch. Check on the report. He may be left without his balls.”

Later in the safety of the T-Ford, Elliot was given the rubdown by Best of how best not to behave with the gangs.

“I do not know what they teach you at the Academy, but here in Rome, we do not preach to the gangs. We ask them politely.”

“Some ways you hold here.” Elliot scoffs at Best.

“Mr. Ness. When in Rome, do as the ……”

“As the Romans. But Rome is part of the big country of ours. And I am from the big country.”

“Mr. Ness. Here in ……. Smaller country of Rome, we do not give a cent to the Big Country. You either behave or I will put in a transfer request.” Best threatened Elliot. “I am not far off my years towards pension.”

The mentioned of pension stopped Elliot from replying. He then thought of his own career and of his mortality. He had seen friends of his who died in the Great War. He met the families and shared their griefs. He wondered when will they do to his. He was to do the works of Treasury and that involved a team of officers to assist.

Elliot will write to the Commissioner on a transfer too.

 

 

 

The Loyal Lieutenants Act Three Scene One Sub Scene One

 

Act Three

Scene One

Sub-Scene One

Egypt and Moses

 

Mark Antony took refuge at the mansion after his rejection by Fulvia. He loved the lady, but she has her own ideas of love and family. She protected her two sons well; even Mark only met them several times, and it was with the mother’ presence. He felt that she distrusted him with them. He has no children of his own; perhaps some bastards will appear on his death bed, but he knew none will take his estate.

“Mark Antony, you are wanted at the library.” Jeeves had caught up with him at the garden. “I was told his name is Ptolemy and was from Egypt.”

Mark took his pace towards the library and went in. He saw Caesar having his drink with the guest at the round table.

“Ptolemy, let me introduce you to Mark Antony.” Caesar motioned to Mark to take a seat with him. Ptolemy held a tall figure; tall and slim with the long beard on the chin, he looked more like a scholar. He was dressed in the tweed three-piece suit and white shoes. He held the fedora hat which was laid across his lap. When in Rome, he dressed to kill.

“Ptolemy …….” Caesar was to describe the guest to Mark.

“I am Ptolemy III, or in Egypt, I am named Pharoah.” Ptolemy laughed. “The III is my nickname. My given name is Marius Tomas and my ancestry is Spanish. I am more of a Mexican being born here, and …… “

“My grandfather once told me we are the descendants of Alexander the Great but I think we are more of Herman Cortez from Spain. We defeated the Aztec there. Not so much Mexican.”

Mark laughed at that admission.

“My tailor tells me that this was suit for the cities here.” Ptolemy smiled. His tailor was not entirely right; it was suited for London than in Rome. 

“Ptolemy is here to invite me to Egypt. He wants us to share with them the might of Rome.” Caesar smiled. “I would like to see them.”

“Moses was our guest before. He enjoyed his stay there.” Ptolemy smiled. “Is he here today?”

“Moses is not. He died two weeks ago.” Caesar replied to the other. “Moses was at Egypt?”

“Yes, he was visiting and we met. He introduced me to Rome.” Ptolemy smiled. “How did he die?”

“He ……. Illness overtook his health.” Caesar lied and then moved the subject. “When can I leave for Egypt?”  

“If you are ready, I will let my people there be prepared for your visit.” Ptolemy laughed. “You must meet my half-sister, Cleop.”

“I will be delighted.” Caesar smiled. “Mark Antony. He will be ……. Soon enough, to join me there.”

Mark was baffled. He just smiled when Ptolemy took leave of the mansion. When he was alone with Caesar, he raised his concerns.

“Caesar, what about Moses’ case?” Mark asked.

“Yes, I still recalled that. Enobarbus is doing the groundworks. Please get the reports from him.” Caesar smiled. “Contrary to the rumours I am not getting senile.”

“I did not mean that, Caesar. I was merely ……”

“Mark, I am intrigue by Egypt. They are not that huge down south but what did they want to court me? I am …...” Caesar faded in his words. “Who is this Ptolemy? And his sister, half-sister as I was told…… what is her name?”

“Cleop.” Mark uttered the name. He then said. “I heard of Egypt when I was with the Sicilians. They are not new; founded some years back by Ptolemy the Great. He made his name from the humble base of trading including moonshine to the delicate merchandise like guns. He ruled with an iron fist, and upon his death, his nephew, Ptolemy II was the King. The new King ruled the domain well, but he died too early. He was succeeded by Ptolemy III.”

“That is their history?” Caesar asked.

“They ruled their domain by the river they named Nile, and bred crocodiles there.” Mark replied. “They brought in this species of river crocodiles as told to me, and fed their enemies to it.”

“Very dramatic.” Caesar smiled. “Here, we just shoot them in the head.”

“True but in Egypt, they do it differently. The Sicilians do not battle them.” Mark looked at Caesar. “I was told that Egypt was laden with wealth and the Sicilian was paid yearly of it.”

“Wealth? I am intrigue.” Caesar needed much wealth for his battles with the others, and the last war with Genous Pompey depleted much of it. He would have taken over the wharf but the expertise to operate it was with Pompey. He got his share of the wealth from there but it was meagre compared to revenues of the wharf.

“Do you think that if I were to …… allied Rome with Egypt, we could be better off in wealth?”

“I would not know, Caesar. I have never been to Egypt.”

“True, and why was Moses doing there? Was he acting alone or someone send him there?” Caesar was asking. “If it was me, I would have …...”

“Let me find out more.” Mark told Caesar and then left. At that same time, Enobarbus was approaching Moses’ home. He met Eva the widow and was invited in for a drink.

“Eva, my condolences. Moses was a good man.” Enobarbus told her. He had Eva as his distant cousin, but they hardly met; not even at her wedding to Moses. It was an old family conflict that distance them.

“Thank you for coming. For a man, Moses …… God, I love the man so much. He can read passages from the Book without referring to it.” Eva said. “For a man who does all those things, I was paralysed by his prayers.”

“Eva, Moses is a good man. He ….” Enobarbus tried to comfort the widow. He never got close to Moses, and till death do we stayed apart was his idea but Caesar needed him there.

“He was a good man. Now he is dead, and many of them told me of his sins. He is no more the good man I knew. He kills others.” Eva sighed. “The man I married for thirty years and I knew nothing of his real life.”

“Eva, I …….” Enobarbus was lost at words to comfort the lady. His own family does not know exactly what he does. They think he is a businessman under the employ of the Romans. He was fine with that when his wife gets a new dress every month, and his life was not complicated. They have a daughter who was in the boarding school, and only sees them during summer.

“Ernie, did you know?” Eva asked him. “Or are you both the same?”

“No, I am not with him. I did not know also. I was not close to Moses; you how the relations work for us in the family.”

Moses’ family will not speak to the others due to some generations old vendetta but it simmered down when Eva married him, but still the contact was at best minimal. Probably some cousins are celebrating Moses’ death that week, but Eva need not to know.

“When I heard of his death, I had to see you. The family also asked of you.” Enobarbus lied then.

“That is sweet of you. I know how the family disliked him, but he is still ……”

“Distant relative.” Enobarbus smiled. “Do Moses speak of his work?”

“Moses hardly talked of his works, except the church stuff. He was also on the road. He told me once he was doing some on the irrigation works. The canals would not flow, he is there to clear it.” Eva sighed. “He worked with one other Consultant recently. Do you know Moses’ friend, Lucas Perry? They travelled together sometimes.”

“Lucas Perry? I ……”

“Yes, he was another one who does the works. I heard he was killed in the papers. Moses would not tell.” Eva looked towards Enobarbus. “Irrigatiuon works, was it? Do you think the same people killed Moses?” 

“I would not know, Eva. I was …...” Enobarbus sighed.

“They went south one week. Moses told me it was to Egypt back then, the river there was flooded.” Eva said. “He laughed when he told me that. I did not know earlier; he told he was born in Egypt and was sent away by his parents to Philly before his parents were killed. He disliked Egypt and Philly. He moved here and we met. He did not say he was linked to the family, but we got married and grandpa nodded.”

Enobarbus smiled. It was a huge issue then, but grandpa had the final say on the matter. He died a weekj la after that, did not attend the wedding but gave the couple a gift; a set of golf balls.

“When Moses was in Egypt, he called me from there. He was happy and Lucas was there.”

“You knew Lucas Perry?” Enobarbus asked.

“Yes, we met for dinner sometimes, but it was an awfully quiet place; no name or any signboards was shown outside.  Some miles out of Rome, and noisy with the truckers there most times, and those bawdy women doing their tricks.” Eva said. “Lucas said it was near his home. I did not complaint for Moses was happy there.”

“Speakeasies” were the nickname for those places; the joint where you can get the illegal booze and the ladies hang out there to pick a few dollars. The drinkers were mostly quiet or low speaki8ng, for they did not want the coppers to know the place; unofficially most knew for they do have their drinks there.

“God, I never knew his other life. I wondered how many of them are like me now; widows?” Eva burst into tears. She was sentimental for she was a school teacher.

It was then Enobarbus got the message that Mark was looking for him.