Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 56

 

56.

 

The friar, exhausted from his search for the elusive Capulet boy, trudged to his own home at the edge of the city. He took the offer of the cottage, an old man who died in his sleep from old age but left the home to the friar. It is a simple cottage on the small hill, with a smaller barn next to it. The barn held no animals but some chickens. Despite his faith, Friar Lawrence held his sermons in the village square or wherever anyone would lend their ears to his words.

On that day, he was in a rush with many things that he had to do. And then his physical self warranted immediate attention. The friar stepped into his cottage and was surprised to see an unknown figure there.

“I only wish anxiety did not dictate my personal needs, but it cannot be helped now.” Friar Lawrence rushed to the door, and then he asked.

“Who are you?”

“I am Vlad Tepes, or you may have known me as the Impaler.” The figure is seated, smiling, and holding the glass of red wine. “You have a good collection there. My apologies for intruding on you.”

“Well, excuse me. I must gather what I need for the thunderboxat the rear. I had soiled my pants.” The friar ran to the sleeping chamber of his. Vlad smiled at the departure. He had soiled his pants many times in battle with the more urgent need to stay alive then. He was surprised to see another figure step in.

“Who are you?” The new figure was Abram, who had followed the friar.

“Vlad Tepes.” The Impaler was now afraid to reveal his name. “I am a……. Guest here.”

“Vlad Tepes? Are you the one they named the Impaler?” Abram asked. It was then he stepped to the right to avoid the thrust of the sword. The attack came from the rear, held by a Janissary with a kilij. He chopped down with his left hand on the wrist of the Janissary. The Janissary sword fell to the flooring.

“Not the best way to greet another guest.” Abram had drawn the dagger at his waist belt and stabbed the Janissary in the left ribs. He then pulled the dagger out and thrust it once more into the left armpit.

“You have a reputation of killing without mercy, and I can see that now.” Abram stepped back from the dead Janissary. “A Turk here? Are you in alliance with them, or is he here to kill you too?”

“I ……” Vlad was to explain when another Janissary charged from the rear of Vlad. The attacker held the kilij over the head for the overhead swing, but Vlad intervened. He tossed the content of the wine at the Janissary and then lashed out with a hand blow at the face.

“Run, Genoa warrior. I will stop him.” Vlad called out. Abram turned and fled when he saw the third attacker was charging him from the rear. He grabbed the door and slammed it shut behind him.

“Stop!” Chorbaji Tarmuk called out. “Do not pursue.”

The two Janissaries obeyed their commander.

“Remove the dead warrior.” Chorbaji Tarmuk then stared at the Wallachian. “You caused me shame to my men.”

“Shame? It was not me who attacked the Genoa warrior. Your men sneaked in from the rear. As the other one did, too, and I... toppled my wine.” 

“You deliberately... Why am I arguing with you now?” Chorbaji Tarmuk sighed. “Yuseff is a good warrior and friend to me. As they all have been with me for so many years. His death will be remembered, and they will call for vengeance.”

“Why bring me here then? Who was that man?” Vlad asked.

“This is the home of one named Lamin Tarik, or in this area, he is known as the friar.” Chorbaji Tarmuk replied.

“An Ottoman spy, I presume.” Vlad said.

“No, not truly, but he had served his purpose. He chose to remain here, and we called on him only recently.” The Janissary Commander looked at the Wallachian. “The one that walked in was unknown to us. He may have followed Lamin here. But why, we are unsure.”

“So, I am exposed then.” Vlad smiled. “Shall we move on then from here?”

“I will ……” It was then the friar stepped back into the cottage and was escorted by one of the other Janissaries. Chorbaji stopped short and looked at the friar.

“You have enemies for a man of the faith.”

“My faith or loyalty carries its burden, Chorbaji.” Friar Lawrence smiled. “He who attacked your man was a brave warrior.”

“You knew him?”

“I saw him leaving when I was outside. His name is Abram Tov, and he worked for the Montague clan. Why is he here? I am unsure.”

“He was seen to be following you here.” Chorbaji Tarmuk said. “Are you saying he works for the Montague clan? Dante Montague.”

“Yes, he is one of the guards there.” The friar looked at the Wallachian. “Perhaps he was to follow me to check in on the whereabouts of their lady, Juliet Montague.”

“Or perhaps of this Wallachian.” Friar Lawrence looked back to the Chorbaji. “Whatever it may be, he is not safe here anymore.”

“Vlad Tepes is my concern. But what intrigued me was why Juliet Montague was involved with you.” Chorbaji Tarmuk stared at the friar.

“A long tale, but in brief, the young lady is looking for Romeo Capulet, and I was told of this.” Friar Lawrence said. “You may know……”

“Gencio Capulet offered my guest sanctuary here.” Chorbaji Tarmuk motioned to Vlad. “It is unlikely he will harm his own guest.”

“If he is truly Vlad Tepes, the Impaler, that will account for the large group of mercenaries brought by Prince Escalus and Count Paris. They sought the Empress Jewels, and he is the last possible benefactor.”

“You know quite a lot of the events here, Lamin.”

“I am a friar and held my sight for strangers and set my ears for any rumours. I hold no interest in the jewels, but the man responsible for many deaths... well, I considered him as a subject of interest.”

“Guard the trail here, Din. There may be others.” Chorbaji Tarmuk instructed the Janissary and then looked back at the friar. “Forget the Impaler, and tell me of this Abram of Montague.”

“Abram is a good man on the side of the Montague, but he is not of his name. His real name is Abram Tov, a warrior from Wallachia before he fled here. He has a son named Karl Tov…”

“Enough of the family ties. What is ……” Chorbaji Tarmuk snapped out.

“Karl Tov is the adopted son of Gencio Capulet; his other name is Lorenzo Capulet. He is the brother of Romeo Capulet, with the same mother. Or maybe not, but linked by blood.” The friar smiled. “He is now involved in the disappearance of Romeo Capulet.”

“Such intricacies in the family issue here.” Chorbaji Tarmuk sighed. “Right now, Abram saw the Impaler, and he may tell the others. We may need to find another safe house. And then report to Lord Gencio Capulet.”

“Who is my father to you?” The figure stepped into the cottage. “My name is …….”

“Romeo Capulet! What are you doing here?” Friar Lawrence stepped towards the lad. “They are all looking for you.”

“I am fine. Tell me, … Turk. Who are you to my father?” Romeo approached Chorbaji Tarmuk.

“When did you ……” Friar Lawrence was ignored by the lad.

“I am a friend of your father.” Chorbaji Tarmuk said to the lad. “He invited me here to Genoa with this gentleman.”

“Vlad Tepes, or the Impaler. I heard of his reputation.” Romeo stared at the Wallachian. “You lied to me. My father will not be ……”

“Romeo! Listen to him.” Friar Lawrence cut in. “He is your father’s friend. How did you get here without being noticed?’

“There is a side trail there. I used it to come in and saw the…others. I hid outside the window and heard the conversation. And saw Abram leave here.”

“Impudent fool!” Chorbaji Tarmuk looked at Romeo Capulet. “We ought to have you killed. Are you aware your presence here intrudes on our safety?”

“Do not be hasty, Chorbaji. I may have the solution for us.” Friar Lawrence cut in.

Abram had taken the trail back to the city. He was thinking of the Impaler, the man responsible for the death of many of his friends. He could not think why the friar was involved there. He was also concerned about Juliet Montague.

“Abram, halt there.” That voice belonged to Reynard of the Capulet. Abram looked at the other.

“When have I obeyed your orders, Capulet?” Abram saw Reynard had stepped into his path. “Step aside.”

“Abram, I am to find Romeo, and it led me to here. The friar is a friend of the lad. Did you see young Romeo there?”

“I am no guard of the Capulet. I care not for the lad.” Abram took one step forth and was stopped by Reynard.

“Do not battle with me, Abram. I have known you……”

“Know of me? We have never spoken before, Reynard. And neither have we ever held a drink together.”

“Abram, we have both served the clan for years. I am only to do my task to find my care.” Reynard did not move from his position. His right hand was on the dagger at his waist belt. “We do not have to battle. Please tell me if you have seen Romeo.”

“I have not. And if I did, why should I tell you? I could tell your lord and get rewarded.” Abram retorted back. “Or will I get stabbed in the back for not telling you?”

“Abram, please do not taunt me.” Reynard was getting impatient.

“Or what? You will kill me like Mercutio? And then say it was the work of another?”

“You are ……” Reynard pushed the other with his left hand. “I will not tolerate such accusations.”

Abram fell back several steps from the push and had his dagger out from his own waist belt. He leveled it at the Capulet’s guard.

“You are brash when you push there.” Abram confronted the other.

“I do not fear you, Abram.” Reynard in turn reached for his own dagger. “We have delayed our duel for far too long.”

“Then let us do it.” Abram called out to the other. “I do not fear you at all.”

It was then the duo was interrupted by the arrival of the Capulet’s servant.

“Master Reynard, Lorenzo was taken in by the magistrate just now. Lord Gencio Capulet is to get him back.” The servant reported to the Capulet’s guard. “You need to get back now. Lady Sofia needs to be protected.”

“Another day, Abram.” Reynard sheathed the dagger and rushed off. The servant looked at Abram. He recognized the other and reported on the fate of Lady Juliet.

 

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 55

 

55.

 

“Romeo, where art thou?” Juliet had sneaked out of the house and rushed there to the cottage. She found no one there, and was concerned on the fate of Romeo.

“Juliet, there you are.” It was Lorenzo who appeared there. “Do you know that Jessica is held in custody by the Magistrate? I was told that the Magistrate was questioning her on the whereabouts of Romeo. I want to get him to save her.”

“He is not here. Could Romeo had been taken too?” Juliet was concerned.

“I am unsure. I came here to check and found you instead.” Lorenzo looked at the furnishings there.

“I must find him.” Juliet was frantic to check for her lover. She saw then the arrival of the friar.

“Friar, have you seen Romeo?” Juliet approached the other. “He is not here.”

“I know not of this.” Friar Lawrence shook his head. “I came here for I had seen Jessica in the Magistrate Court and yet I am forbidden to see her. They said she is Jew. And I was now allowed to see her.”

“You must help her.” Lorenzo jumped into the discussion. “She was not involved.”

“She is now.” Friar Lawrence sighed. “Where is Romeo?”

“We are unsure. We arrived here and he is not around.” Juliet sighed. “He could be taken.”

“I doubt so. If he was taken, I will know. The Capulets will have the Court surrounded.” Friar Lawrence sighed. “He must had sneaked out.”

“To where?” Juliet asked.

“To find you, my dear.” The friar smiled. “He is a silly boy.”

“Then we must find him before he gets into trouble.” Juliet expressed her anxiety.

“Lorenzo, where are the other places that you think Romeo may hide in?” The friar asked.

“I know not where else. We are brothers ……. Kins but hardly we played together.” Lorenzo sighed. “Maybe he gone home. Mother will see to his safety.”

“I doubt so. Or maybe he had. But there is one other place he will go to.” The friar looked at Juliet. “Your home. To see you.”

“I must return then.” Juliet Montague turned to leave.

“Let me go with you, Juliet.” Lorenzo offered his assistance. They left the cottage and then the friar took to the side door to leave. On the way by the trail, Juliet and Lorenzo was met by the Magistrate’s guards.

“Juliet Montague, we are to take you with us to the Magistrate Court.”

At that moment in the home of the Montagues, Angelica was concerned on the whereabouts of her care. She had taken care of Juliet from birth; her mother was weak from the delivery of the child, her first then, and it was a tough birth. Juliet was entrusted to the care of the nurse, who took in her stride then.

Lullay, mine Liking, my dear Son, mine Sweeting,
Lullay, my dear heart, mine own dear darling.

(The more well-known Coventry Carol, takes the form of a lullaby sung by Mary to the infant Jesus, but here it is used a refrain around a description of an encounter with the nativity. 

https://corymbus.co.uk/2014/12/22/lullay-my-dere-herte-myn-owyn-dere-derlyng/)

Juliet was not an easy child to care unlike the litter she had nurtured before. With the lullaby there, Angelica git the child to sleep rested at her bosom, and fed with pap. Pap was made from flour or bread crumbs cooked in water or milk. 

“Feed thy mouth on this, my dear. You are a lucky baby here. Others out there, gruel (a thinner cereal-based liquid) and panada (bread cooked in broth) were their infant's diet.” Angelica loved the child but she could not hesitate to grind on the troubles of the others to her care.

“The bed unkempt. God, give this child the teaching of real life.” Angelica approached the bed that Juliet sleeps on. Her chamber was enough to fill the space for a family, but being in the more affluent life, she hardly knows that.

“Dire are mine, for thee back will be sore for nights if I ever to clean this chamber.” Angelica turned to the door to call on the cleaning maids, and then she stumbled on a hooded man standing there by the door.

“Hush, my ……. Angelica. It is me, Romeo; the friend of Juliet.” The manly figure covered with the dark cloak whispered. “Please do not call on the servants …… yet.”

“The …….” Angelica refrain from her comments. “You are the ailing rooster that was outside the walls. Well, she is not here. She left the house earlier.”

“Juliet left the house? Where to?” Romeo asked. “I came to see her.”

“And to whom you may had missed.” Angelica smirked. “Please, dear sir. The lord is at home, and if he finds you, it may be without fail you will lose your rooster …… beak.”

“Let me take you out. Do not make a sound.” Angelica then led the Capulet out with his hood over his head/ He was let out of the house by the servant’s entrance. Angelica went back to the chamber and saw Lady Angeline waiting there.

“Was that the Capulet boy?” Lady Angeline asked.

“Yes, my lady. He was …. He sneaked in but I told him …...”

“It is best that the lord does not know of this.” Lady Angeline cut in. “I want the servants to pay vigilance to any strangers in the house.”

The nurse nodded and left the chamber. Lady Angeline looked out of the window at the road ahead. She saw the Capulet lad walking there. Unknown to him, Abram was following behind. It was the latter who reported to her on the Capulet boy. She had then instructed the guard to follow the boy. She heard that Lord Dante Montague was to be in the Magistrate Court to check on the daughter. She was apprehended with Lorenzo on the outskirt of the city. Lord Gencio Capulet was advised on the matter too.

“Lord Dante Montague, your daughter is under investigation for the investigate on the fugitive, Romeo Capulet.” Magistrate Javier said to the lord when they met there. “She can be being held to be question here. At no time, is she a …….”

“Magistrate Javier, what proof have you that my daughter is involved with the Capulet boy?” Lord Dante Montague pressed for answer, and he had brought his own friends, and among them were senior members of the trade association.

During that period, Genoa's legal system was complex, utilizing both local statutes and the ius commune to resolve disputes, particularly in civil and commercial matters. The magistrates operated within a legal system that drew from both local traditions and Roman-canonical law to address issues like contracts and family matters, though the state itself had limited power over its citizens and society. 

The period was also marked by a shift in the ruling class from older noble clans to newer merchant-banking elites who wielded power through commercial success and control over institutions. The ruling class was a mix of established noble families and newly wealthy merchant families who had gained prominence through banking and overseas trade. 

“I am doing whatever …….” Magistrate Javier was upset that the lord had massed the influential to back him. We are questioning anyone who may had met or know of Romeo Capulet.”

“And which without proof, you have no jurisdiction to detain my daughter. Do I need to see the Chief Magistrate to get his view on the matter?” Lord Dante Montague leaned on the Magistrate with his influence. Javier himself was upset at the Belmont’s confiscation, and then the refusal of Portia Belmont to say anything on the wares.

“No, that will not be needed. You may take your daughter back.” Javier bend to the demand.

“What of my Lorenzo?” It was Lord Gencio Capulet who arrived then. “I demand his release. You cannot be picking up people on mere suspicion or by association.”

“Lord Gencio Capulet……” Magistrate Javier sighed. “Yes, you can take him back too.”

It was a bad day for the Magistrate who had to deal with these two influential families. Lorenzo and Juliet were brought out.

“Are you hurt, Lorenzo?” Lord Gencio Capulet saw the bruises on the lad’s face.

“Lorenzo Capulet was aggressive and had to be handed by my guards.” Magistrate Javier told the father. “He needs to be told that we will not tolerate violence.”

“Father, help Jessica please.” Lorenzo pleaded with the father.

“Not today, Lorenzo. We need to get you home. Mother is waiting.” Lord Gencio Capulet then looked at the Magistrate. “The matter will be brought up to the Chief Magistrate.”

 It was then Shylock who had arrived at the Court and heard the exchange. He approached the Magistrate and pressed on his demand.

“Jessica Judas is an accomplice of Romeo Capulet. She cannot be released just yet.” Javier told Shylock. He was furious to be confronted. Shylock turned towards Lord Gencio Capulet for assistance.

“I cannot assist there.” Lord Gencio Capulet shook his head. “I am to go now. Please let me go home with my son now.”

With that, Lord Gencio Capulet stepped out of the Courts. He saw Lord Dante Montague boarded the carriage, and hesitated to approach it. He was to leave when Lady Sofia excused herself. She told him she has other matters to attend. Lord Gencio Capulet boarded his and the driver took them home.

Shylock himself was upset still in the Magistrate Court, then approached the Magistrate.

“I demand a hearing on my report on Andre Bassanio. His wares are now confiscated by your officers and by the deed of loan, belonged to me. I demand justice to my claims.”

Portia Belmont was allowed to visit Andre Bassanio at his cell. It was unprecedented but Jean managed to convince the fellow officers to let her visit him.

“Hello, Portia. How are you?” Bassanio sat up on the cot provided to him. He was covered in blood form the beatings inflicted on him. Portia stepped closer to him, and was told of his predicament.

“The wares are confiscated by the Magistrate.” Portia told him.

“So, he must had found whatever he was looking for.” Bassanio smiled. “It had driven many to seek it.”

“Whatever it was, I had checked earlier. There was no case in the wares. No jewels found.” Portia told the other. “Were you conned on it?”

“No case? It cannot be. The Turk showed me the case when we were arranging the shipment. It must be in there.” Bassanio was stunned. “It cannot be missing. Maybe the Dock Master took it.”

“Impossible. The wares were kept under guard in the warehouse. You know how tight the security was there. It was the rule of the trade to ensure Genoa was never suspicious of any missing wares.”

The judicial body ie named the judicial calculators, ensure the unloading of the wares were to requirements. They are supported by the "giovani dei calcolatori," acted as witnesses to prevent fraud and ensure accurate reporting of goods. Any masters found guilty of fraud during eh unloading will be punished.

Portia then produced the small case she retrieved from the wares. “This was declared, arrived sealed but it was empty.”

“The case……. Empty? It cannot be.” Bassanio grabbed the case. He opened it and looked inside. It was empty. “I did not check the case before. Was I conned by the Turk then?”

“A false trail created to confuse the others. What are this jewels that everyone coveted to get?”

The demands of Shylock were fulfilled and he pressed on the legality on his claims.

“It will be carried out. You will have your chance at the Courts.” Javier looked at the money lender. “Andre Bassanio Tito will appear there.”

 

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 54

 

54.

 

“Madness! Truly madness!” Shylock sat on the seat there at the lobby of the Magistrate’s office. He was accompanied by Leah and Abram. They saw Jessica taken to the office inside and was not allowed in with her.

“Calm down, Shylock. I am sure she will be fine.” Abram assured the other. “I …….”

“It is not your daughter there. Nor your isha.” Shylock snapped at the other. “She is my …… Jessica.”

“I told you to look after her but you …….” Shylock in turn looked at Leah. “Now she is in trouble.”

Leah was silent to the accusation. She was thinking of whom she could refer to for help. It came then, when she saw Portia Belmont arrived at the office. She was accompanied by another lady, and two officers. Portia looked pale and was led to the seat next Leah.

“Do sit here, Lady Belmont. I will file a report on the incident.” The officer told the lady and then he walked off.

“We will be okay, Portia. I am sure Jean has it all covered.” The lady accompanying Portia told her. She turned to look at Leah who was staring at Portia.

“Who are you? Your face looked familiar.”

“I am Leah Judas. My …… husband ran the money trading.” Leah replied. “May I know your name?”

“I am Nerissa, and my friend is Portia Belmont. I am her companion.” Nerissa looked back to her friend. “We were …… attacked, but we ……. The guards were there to save us.”

“You are lucky.” Leah smiled weakly. “We are here for ……. Our daughter, Jessica. She is an in mix up of ….”

“Ms. Belmont. How are you? Any news on Bassanio?” Shylock was keen to know the fate of the other. “Please do…...”

“I know not.” Portia was upset at being asked of Bassanio. She knew he was in the custody of the Magistrate but she made no attempt to see him.

“Perhaps you should……” Shylock pressed on.

“Leave me out, Mr. Judas. I am not his …… family.” Portia glared at the other. “Whatever he has transacted with you is not of my concern.”

“Ms. Belmont……. I was trying to be nice here.” Shylock lost his patience with the lady. He then stopped when he saw the officer leading Ms. Portia earlier appeared then. Portia stood up to meet the other.

“Maurice will do the paperwork. We can leave now.” The officer told Portia. The lady nodded and they walked away. The lady companion of Portia also took to leave with them.

“I must go with them.” Shylock was to stand up when the officer that led Jessica approached him.

“Mr. Judas. You are required to see your daughter.” Shylock was unsure what to do next but Leah pushed him to go with the officer.

Across the city, Prince Escalus was upset at the report that he got from Count Paris on the attack at the Belmont’s place.

“Obviously, you are incompetent.” Count Paris was told. “It was a simple task of gathering the needed document.”

“I entrusted the task to Vuk ……” Count Paris defended his action.

“A mercenary at best. Yet, did you go in with them? No? You remained hidden and when all was bad, you left without a thought to the matter.” Prince Escalus shouted. “Are you the officer that I regretted bringing up the ranks?”

“No ……” Count Paris was to further defend himself but then remained silent.

“No, you are not. I am taking over the task myself. I am gathering the needed people here soon. Leave me now.” Prince Escalus was upset. Count Paris took his leave and met Reynard outside the tavern.

“Count Paris, I have news. Portia Belmont was in the warehouse and retrieved the wares that was under the name of Bassanio. She had the wares delivered to her house.”

“Do not inform the prince of this. We will visit the lady now. Get me some men to assist here.” Count Paris told the other. “We must hold the news for now.”

The same news was brought to the attention of the Chorbaji by his spies, when he was in the library of Vlad’s home. He had chosen to be there daily to ensure the other was safe and secured there. He kept his distance from the family and remained most times in the yard.

“The game is afloat then. They will congregate there to examine the wares. We need to move the Wallachian away. He is not safe here anymore.” Chorbaji was concerned. It was then Vlad stepped into the library.

“Are you still here? I thought you will be walking the perimeter of the house.” Vlad was making a sarcasm of the situation. “I am safe here. No one knows of my whereabouts.”

“We must leave soon.” Chorbaji did not mince his words. “Your life is under threat.”

“From who?” Vlad asked.

“The …… Prince Escalus is here in Genoa, and so is Count Paris. They sought the jewels from you.”

“Jewels? I have it not. Why do they pursue me? I have not heard of them.” Vlad was asking.

“Prince Escalus and Count Paris are members of the Hungarian court, and they sought the jewels for their own. The have brought in their men to hunt you.”

“I thought no one knew of my whereabouts. You told me so.” Vlad stared at the Chorbaji.

“I did but they have discovered you of late. My spies told me that they knew you are here. We must move you. And your family too.”

“We have another safe house in Genoa. There you will stay till we can get you out of Genoa. Leave your guards and family here. You must leave unknown to them.”

“I cannot leave my family here.” Vlad protested.

“They will come to no harm. Lord Gencio Capulet will protect them. It is you the enemies want. Leave with us now.”

“I cannot …” Vlad insisted on staying but he was not prepared for the blow on the back of his head by the other Janissary behind him. Chorbaji Tarmuk then called for his men to bring the ex-Voivode out. 

Meanwhile, Magistrate Javier was informed of the wares being released from the warehouse. He was upset and rushed to see Bassanio.

“Your lover had absconded with the wares of yours.” Javier looked to the figure lying prone on the bedding.

“How did …… Oh, she has the Bill of Ladings.” Bassanio laughed. “I gave it to her for safekeeping. She is a smart woman.”

“You fool! Now she got the wares, and you are useless to me.” Javier lashed out with the baton on the man.

“Arghh…… Kill me and you will never see the wares.” Bassanio curled up upon the blow. “I could get the wares as its still under my name. She may had taken it out but it is still mine.”

“Take me there, and you will get what you wanted.” Bassanio looked at Javier. The latter stormed out and told his officers to prepare for the visit at the Belmont’ premises.

“I want to take a few officers with me to there.” Javier told his men. “We are to raid a …… warehouse.”

At the home of Portia Belmont, the wares were unloaded and stored at the living area. The crates were opened then by the servants, and the contents examined. There were the spices, and garments with some silver ingots but no jewellery found. They were told to look for the case that contained the jewels.

“It is not here.” Jean who assisted in the search told the lady. It was Portia’s idea to get the wares.

“Whatever they want, it must be in there. It was rumoured that it was some jewels.” With that, Portia had the crates opened. She found was one small case.

“Whatever it was, it is not there anymore?”

“Bassanio lied or he was misled then.” Portia sighed. “Silly man was to take it all in without verifying the contents.”

“Then what are to do next?” Nerissa asked.

“We hide the case and then wait.” Portia reply. “The others will know we took the wares and will come here.”

It was then a group of men stormed in.

“Do not move anything!’ The leader of the group approached Jean.

“On whose authority do you command?” Jean asked. He had his baton held on the right hand.

“I am Count Paris of Hungary. Do not act or you will be dealt with.” Count Paris stared at Jean. “Aer you one with the Magistrate?”

“I am. Officer 24602 Jean here. I am to protect the ladies.” Jean pulled Portia to his side. “You can have the wares but first show me the claims papers.”

“I hold no claim papers on the wares, but only to sought out a certain item from the wares.” Count Paris then motioned to his men to search the wares. The group consists of seven others who proceeded to search the wares.

“Stop your action!” The command came from Magistrate Javier. “I am the Magistrate of Genoa. Stop!”

The Magistrate had arrived with his own seven officers, and they blocked the doorway at the library. The Magistrate approached the ladies, and told them that in the interest of justice, he was confiscating the wares.

“These wares supposedly belong to one named Andre Bassanio, who is under my custody at the Magistrate Court. The man is accused of cheating the lender Shylock Judas who loaned him the ducats to acquire the wares. It is to be placed on trial by the Court and thereafter determined its rightful ownership.” Magistrate Javier looked from the ladies towards Count Paris.

“Anyone who interfered in the matter will be dealt by the Magistrate Court’s authorities.”

“I am acting on the …….” Count Paris was to raise his objection.

“Please file the request at the Court.” Magistrate Javier then looked to this officer. “Load the wares. And take the ladies to the Court too, with ……. Officer 24602.”

“Magistrate, you will …….” Portia was to explain but Javier was not to listen then.

“Speak when at the Court, if you do wish to attend.”

“Magistrate Javier, the matter will be referred to the prince.” Count Paris took his leave then.

 

 

Preys and Predators 3 Love Binds, Family Destroy Chapter 53

 53.

 

Lord Gencio Capulet was uneasy at the loss of update on the whereabouts of his son and the situation of Benvolio. He was later disturbed by the news that Jessica Judas was arrested on the suspicion of harbouring Romeo. He was in the library with Reynard.

“I do not have many I can trust in Genoa, except you now.” Lord Gencio Capulet looked to his guard. “How long have you served the family?”

“Long, my lord.” Reynard who was sidelined to be a mere guard for many years. “I have been more with young Romeo. I have failed the family.”

“Not so, Reynard. You tried your best, but Romeo is what he is; a brat and above all, a rebel.” Lord Gencio Capulet sighed. “I have …… one other son, Lorenzo who is more as a son to me than Romeo.”

“Romeo …… If I may, my lord. He looks to you for love, but you are always on travels. He has no one to relate to, but maybe us……. or Tybalt.” Reynard was to say. “Tybalt was a …….”

“A scoundrel at best. I know of his ways as much as I do with my trade. He protects young Romeo but he is not a food figure to follow.” Lord Gencio Capulet looked at the guard. “Benvolio, he is family but his dislike of the father made him an outcast, and he spends his time at war.”

“Speaking of Benvolio, there were rumours that he was killed by the Montague, but unfounded. His body was disposed of by the butchers who fed parts of him to the pigs.” Everyone knew the pigs will consume any flesh regardless and even bones were broken to be consumed. “His head was burned in the blacksmith.”

“How was it made …….” Lord Gencio Capulet was stunned.

“We are ……. Not indifferent to the acts, my lord.” Reynard confessed. “We …….”

“Do not say it. I will not hear of it.” Lord Gencio Capulet knew that in the line of business, there are occasions that killing was a needed task, and the guards was employed to ensure protection.

“These rumours were from my associates.” Reynard told the lord. “More to it, they disclosed that the murderer was ……. Unknown.”

“Earlier, you said it was the Montague?”

“I did and still believed it was by them, or through their influence. The city of late is visited by many strangers. There is the Count Paris who was the guest of Montague at the ball, the newly arrived Prince Escalus, and I heard of mercenaries with one other named Bran Branvonic, and our secret guest, the Impaler.”

“Yes, I am aware.” Lord Gencio Capulet looked away from his guard. “Vlad Tepes is my doing for the ………”

Lord Gencio Capulet did not mention the rumours of the jewels. He was sure that Reynard knew of it.

“Was the Impaler the reason they are all here?” Reynard asked. Lord Gencio Capulet did not reply but dismissed the guard. His other son, Lorenzo stepped in with the mother.

“Gencio, we need to talk.” Lady Sofia approached the man of the house. Lorenzo closed the door to the library.

“Gencio, Lorenzo wants to wed the Jewish lady named Jessica Judas.” The lady looked at her lover. “He had …… He is adamant on it.”

“Wedding? Lorenzo, you fool. How could you wed her? She is of a different faith.” Lord Gencio Capulet snapped in anger. “Even if I agreed, her parents will object.”

“I love her and told her of my real faith. I am of the Jewish origin. My is Karl Levi Tov, son of Abram Tov. My mother is Rachel Mencies. She ……. Died soon after my birth.” The younger man stepped up to the lord. “All I want now is the blessing……… No, it is not permission to you to leave the Capulet and lived outside of it.”

“Gencio, he is …….” Lady Sofia stepped towards the lord. “He …….”

“You are a Capulet, and will remain as that.” Gencio shouted. “Leave me now. I am to think out the issue with …… Romeo.”

“I will leave the house to wed my love, Jessica Judas.” Lorenzo, in turn, shouted back. “You cannot …….”

“Who? Jessica Judas? I was just told that she is in the Magistrate’s custody.’ Gencio looked from Lorenzo to Lady Sofia. “What has happened to us now? I got a missing son, and now ……. My other son is to leave and wed a Jewish.”

“I must go to Jessica. They only want to know on the whereabouts of Romeo.” Lorenzo stormed off from the library.

“Romeo? Does he know where our son is?” Lord Gencio Capulet looked to the departing figure. “Did he ……”

“I know nothing. It is the first time I hear of it.” Lady Sofia shook her head. “What am I to do now? I will have Rachel to blame me if anything happens to him.”

“Reynard! Reynard! Stop, Lorenzo.” Lord Gencio Capulet called out to the guard. Reynard was in the wing and rushed in.

“Stop, my son, Lorenzo. He knows of the whereabouts of Romeo.”

Reynard turned to leave the library.

In the library of the Montague, Lord Dante Montague opened the drawer and stared at the case there. He felt the urge to take it out but stopped there.

“Dante, do it please.” It was Angeline who stood there in the library door. “It may be the only item to save our daughter.”

“Do what, woman.” Lord Dante Montague slammed the drawer shut. “What is on your mind?”

“If the case contained the jewels wanted by Prince Escalus, use it to bargain for the freedom of Juliet. She does not deserve ……”

“Juliet? When has she become the issue here? She is not wanted by the authorities. It is the son of Gencio that is wanted.” Lord Dante Montague stared at her.

‘Your …… Our daughter is in love with the boy. She will be heartbroken if …….”

“With time and perhaps a trip to another place, or another better boy, she will be back with us.” Lord Dante Montague said. “I had …….”

“You were never over Juliette for a long time. You had our daughter named Juliet to remember her.” Angeline cut in. “You loved Juliette but she was …… beyond your reach. You duel over her love with Gencio, and both of you lost when she was sent to London. Gencio was heartbroken and joined the army. You were struck by grief and took to find the other which was me. I am not Juliette but a part of me was to you.”

“What madness prevails in you?” The man shouted at Angeline.

“Not as deep or hidden behind your mask of deceit.” Angeline snarled at the man. “I knew of the reports that you had requested of her when she was in London. You were courting me then to get know more of her. You loved her so much and upon her wedding that you stopped to think of her, but not for long. You were onto me, praising me and mother, while you leaned on the servants to know of Juliette. Was she happy? Was she returning?”

“Preposterous!” Lord Dante Montague snapped out.

“Preposterous was you. I had questioned my …… desire to be with you for over two seasons before we wed, courteous towards you I was, but it was mother who was impressed with your tenacious effort to get me. Or so it was seen then. Finally, you bought mother over, and with her ailing health, she found it fit to wed me off to you.”

“Angeline……” Lord Dante Montague was without words.

“Angeline I was, and daughter of the Dubier. Could I say no then? As could Juliet says no to you if you were to wed her too? To whom? Count Paris, he is rich, and above all, influential. Or even Prince Escalus, if he was to find another lover.” Angeline smirked at the man. “You will bargain with us like your wares in trade, but unlike the wares, we hold emotions. And we hid them most times……. Deep inside.”

“Dante Montague, how many days and nights were we together? Perhaps one week in a season, longer during winter, but when the mood calls for it, or you will be on the road. You claimed to love me, but does it come from your heart? Your whole heart? If it does, then why did the jewel you promised to my sister remain in your drawer? Mother declined you then, and even with our co-joining of the flesh, you will not let touch that case. Was it your last remembrance of Juliette?”

“I have given you many jewels.”

“But not the one that matters.” Angeline looked at the man. “Juliet’s arrival was the only jewel that held us together. We never held another besides her. It was not my desire to have any more with you. In my life, there is only Juliet.”

“Why do you torment me now?” Lord Dante Montague looked at the lady who was wedded to him. “I did love your sister but that was over soon after ours. I had kept the …….  Whatever of her, but it was not the reason which you mentioned. The jewel is gone. I had traded it a long time ago, but the case was kept. It was my ……. My body without the soul. It was to remind me of the lost love that was once there.”  

“I do love you, Angeline Dubier. It took me sometime to see you from Juliette but I do love you. And still do. Juliet was the name I wanted for it was the name of my daughter if I ever had one. It was my grandmother’s maiden name. She was a great lady and lovely grandmother. If it was a boy we have, then it was to be Andros but we did not have that child.” Lord Dante Montague sighed. “I never told you this before”

“It was coincidental that your sister was named Juliette.”

“It was not you that I did not desire any more children. It was just myself. I was not keen for the world around us was in turmoil with the wars. I was sad to meet the survivors on the roads, and listened to their woes. Was it fair to bring a child to this world to have them continue the hardship here?”

“I am sorry, Dante. I did ……” Angeline looked to her lover.

“You have every right to ask. I was away most times, and when I was with you, I hardly told you about myself.” Dante smiled. “We all lived in difficult times.”

A servant barged in.

“My lord, Lady Juliet left the house. She said she was to look for Romeo.”