by Alan, Mark
"Creepy" Hoyt interjected, unable to contain his opinions.
Not missing a beat, Aven stepped in, "What of your connection with the Russian Captain?"
"The enemy of my enemy is my friend", Suttikul quoted.
"We have been tracking his travels and intend to intercept him here in Thailand. We have this chair right here waiting for him to join our quaint little party" Hoyt declared, merely inches from the Colonel's face.
"Appearances can be deceiving", Suttikul sneered.
"In case you haven't noticed Colonel, your role in this grand plan is over", Hoyt grinned. "Coms are live, I reported successful hands on target, and our team is now leveraging your hostage situation to fully secure the grounds. Like I said, this party is by-invitation-only, with one more guest request pending... Capt. Vasily. Does he like cake or is he more of a pie guy?"
The Commander entered the room, "Good Work. We need to keep up appearances. Capt. Vasily is confirmed on a flight into Thailand, under an alias. It's critical he not diverge from his set itinerary. Let's not spook him. The outside guards have been replaced by our men. We assume his destination is here. We can secure once he is on the grounds. What have you learned here?"
"They are definitely working together", Hoyt spoke first. "And his story is just as crazy as Mr. Antipater's, Sir... No offense." Looking over at Aven.
"None taken" Aven smiled. "Just don't close your mind Hoyt as more of the facts present themselves. Answers will prove what is true, no matter the source".
"Antipater", Suttikul interrupted the discussion. "Why do I know that name?"
"Do you know your history?" Aven snapped back, with the same intensity, Hoyt had noticed earlier.
"Can I hear some more of your mad plan?" Hoyt asked Suttikul, giving Aven a moment to step away.
"You think I am eccentric” Suttikul jeered, "when in fact, it is you who is not in the proper frame of mind for the events that are pending. Sanity runs on a separate plane when encountering the supernatural. You should be questioning your friend, Mr. Antipater, over there, if you want more answers. You will not break me".
Hoyt knew there was some truth in the Colonel's statements, but he also knew it had been a long day and right now they seemed to have the upper hand. He would be happy with these outcomes for today.
329 B.C.
Kavani broke through the wooded grove into a semi hidden meadow. The moon shining on the field rivaled daylight. The Druid festivities were comparably lively as the celebration she had left with the Roman statesmen, with one exception, everyone was nude.
The Celtic movements, music and symbols were all new to Kavani and she relished the energy present on the field. Her formal garments raised suspicion. The activity halted as she approached. It was not uncommon to send a beautiful woman to serve as a distraction for a pending surprise attack. An initial scout report of the naked Druids would likely have viewed them as quite vulnerable, however nothing could be further from true. The dancing had changed to a state of meditation. Hands linked and quiet as they collectively "reached out" to judge Kavani's intentions.
"Welcome High Priestess”, was the joint response, but Kavani could not tell if she had heard it with her ears or just her mind. "More yet, Goddess, accept our visit to your realm. May we share the enchantment of the evening".
Shedding her clothes, Kavani began her journey of enlightenment amongst the Druids. A relationship, that would flourish for years to come.
Although she did not sleep all night, Kavani was more energized than normal for the morning games. She was at the north end of the tracks, in reserved seats, with a spectacular view of the events. As the champions entered the Circus Maximus, her eyes fell on Antipater, his bronze skin hidden only by the medallion strapped to his chest. He and Kavani had spent much time choosing a symbol to represent him, once he had been considered to compete. For years he had proudly worn the sun crest of Alexander. Kavani admired his loyalty, but was equally eager for Antipater to be dressed in an image that was symbolic of him alone. They had settled on the wolf. The creature bore many attributes representative of Antipater's style and character. The animal also had strong ties to the moon and other elements of Kavani's educations that made her further treasure the choice. The icon emblazoned into metal across Antipater's chest was strong and powerful. His competitors knew he would be a formidable foe.
Antipater easily advanced through the first round of races and gladiator events. Kavani had forgotten how physically powerful Antipater could be, as well as how strategically calculating he was in his movements. He was not the biggest participant by far, but he competed with such finesse. Kavani was not the only one to take notice. In just the first day, Antipater "the Wolf" had become a crowd favorite.
On the fifth night, of the week long games, was another stately celebration that demanded Antipater's attendance as Rome's latest man of interest. Antipater enjoyed exercising his skills, but had not counted on the notoriety accompanying his successes. He and Kavani had done a good job maintaining a comparably low profile over the years hidden away in Rome. It was only four more days, he reasoned, and he could return to just being a good winemaker.
"You look incredible in that purple dress as a true royalty", Antipater expressed as they readied themselves for the evening's affair.
"Wait 'til you see what I wear at the Druid initiation", was Kavani's answer. Antipater smiled, his skin turning a little flush.
Titus Veturius Calvinus, the head of the consulship, was in attendance. He sought out Antipater to congratulate his triumphs. "I sense we have met before." Calvinus continued, "Your countenance is hard to forget. How long have you been in Rome?"
Not wanting to disclose too much information, but also understanding the protocols associated with supreme authority, Antipater attempted to acknowledge and deflect. "When in the glory that is Rome, all other locales seem to become distant memories."
"An athlete and a diplomat, I shall definitely watch your ascent in our beloved Rome." Chortled the politician.
Antipater dismissed himself and attempted to blend into the background. A more difficult task than it had been a mere, few days previous.
In what seemed like no time, Antipater found himself again encircled by the elite of Rome, posing questions.
"From what family do you come?"
"Will you do me the honor of dining with me?"
Calvinus re-entered the discussion, "I vaguely recall our first encounter. Did you travel with Nearchus?"
Antipater was no stranger to concealing his thoughts, "The name sounds familiar... tell me more".
"Five years ago, I met Nearchus, an ally who had close ties to Alexander of Macedon, but had been exiled by his father King Philip. He was aware of our success in embracing a democratic society and sought to convey these ideals in his own country. His cultured mind as well as his seamanship was recognized by the emperor as beneficial. Alexander exonerated and then appointed Nearchus as the Admiral of his Eastern Campaigns. The accord with Nearchus has thus far kept Alexander's sites to the east". Calvinus stated, not completely recalling Antipater's face, but realizing the significance of his name.
"He gives the impression of a man worth keeping close. I would be grateful for an introduction, if you continue to recognize value in our association upon his next visit to Rome". Antipater replied evenly.
"I prefer my correspondence with Nearchus to be at a distance. Honestly, in his new position, I don't completely know where his loyalties lie. In the expanse, rests safety". Calvinus held affinity for his up and coming champion, but the name coupled with his obvious skills during the games, seemed too much a coincidence. If the rumors of events in Macedon bore more truth than fantasy, Antipater would need to be kept accounted for in Rome.
[Alexander had muffled the details around his Regent's absence. He wanted to end Antipater's life, but also feared the attempted attack bespoke his own vulnerability. After all, he was a God, a mere man posed with little threat to his well being.]
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Antipater's body language did not display the shock in his mind at the mention of Nearchus. He was only a couple of days away from being declared the Grand Champion of Rome. Many referred to him as "the Great Wolf" but certainly the name Antipater had become recognized as well. News of these games would spread across the world, as visitors returned home from the spectacle, inaugurating Rome's new, majestic arena. Antipater had let his pride and competitive nature direct his actions. The shear enjoyment of the games had clouded his judgment and jeopardized their safety. He welcomed the Druid initiation. A secret gathering, away from the attention, was exactly what he needed.
"Welcome Goddess. Welcome Great Wolf". The Druids used this name for different reasons than his supporters from the games.
The markings recently added to the cave walls reminded him of the hieroglyphs of Egypt. The new symbols were a good distraction. Antipater felt a bit exposed, but was most uptight about others gazing upon Kavani. Her beauty was matchless. Antipater knew the Druids looked past the body to the inner essence, but he couldn't help doubting that Kavani's exquisiteness was the exception.
They were each given masks to further shield their outer persona. Kavani's was lovely, adorned with white flowers and a colorful butterfly. Antipater's was made of rich bark, petrified and bowed at both the forehead and along the jaw line. It was reminiscent of a military cowl in shape, but much more stunning. Random carvings of Druid symbols gilded the masks in a green tone suggesting a tribute to life.
Listening to the insight of the elders, and the acumen of the disciples as they penetrated the veil of the conscious was fascinating to the couple. The hypnotic state, brought peace and design to their lives. The two were engaged with their destiny. An incomplete map, charted and sketched images that were neither understood or could be explained. As the initiation concluded, the chief elder revealed that the indescribable images were a glimpse into their future. A future, so different than their present in every way.
Over the coming days, Antipater contended in the games and was crowned with the laurels of the Grand Champion of Rome. He knew a change in his behavior would stir distrust. If Calvinus did have any notion of Antipater's true identity, better to encourage friendship, than to isolate yet another man of power. As a valued companion, Antipater would also be privy to the movements of Nearchus. A man, that both he and his Consulship seemed to have mutual misgivings. Still, by way of the revelations in the Druid caves, both Kavani and Antipater knew their days in Rome were numbered.
The secret to humor is surprise.
~ Aristotle ~
Capt. Vasily's plane had landed on time, but his ground arrangements had him traveling to the Grand Palace not the Government House.
"The palace is only 20 minutes away across the moat", Hoyt stated after pinpointing the two locations on his GPS.
"You don't even know who you are hunting", laughed Suttikul. "If you were ready, you would have known our visitor would view the Grand Palace as the seat of power".
"We are already spread thin, but this operation falls short without intercepting Vasily, before he can pass on the launch codes. Hoyt, you and Aven accomplished much in a short time. The palace is less than 2 clicks away. Move out". The Commander ordered.
Aven would never be used to taking orders, but he agreed with Command's assessment. Plus, the words from Suttikul echoed in his ears. They were likely converging on more supernatural activity than anyone else on the team would be "geared up" to handle.
It was just past twilight. Even from the entrance gates of the Government House, the view across the moat of the Grand Palace was spectacular. The golden lights outlining every detail of the famous landmark, spotlighting the four spires against the night sky. Like most monuments around the globe, seeing the structure lit at night is like viewing the attraction for the first time. The intricate detail spoke to the spirit indeed.
Jogging through the streets of Bangkok, dodging the crowds, as well as the eyes of military so common place under the martial law declaration, was not an easy feat. Maintaining a good clip, but under the guise of excitement to see the palace was an active performance.
"I have a strong feeling we should look for cover in Wat Phra Kaew. Whoever Vasily is meeting is likely to be already there. And, if my gut is right... robed in saffron", Aven proposed to Hoyt, in between excited points towards the palace, for the soldiers' benefit.
"Where?"
"The Temple of the Emerald Buddha". Aven rephrased.
"You think we are on watch for an old monk?"
"Be alert. Age has nothing to do with power. The danger we are literally running towards deserves to be recognized". Aven admonished.
"Whose side are you on anyway?" Hoyt replied with confused skepticism.
"I do not esteem or admire our foes. I have a low opinion of how they wield their power. But, to disregard their strengths, is to enter the battle ill prepared", Aven continued. "Hoyt, you are an elite warrior who has earned my respect, but your experience is limited in the realm we are operating in".
"More bed-time stories?"
"Yes, you enjoyed them as a kid. Be attentive to your child-like imagination", was Aven's final instruction as they crossed the water into the courtyards of the Grand Palace.
The stairs approaching the relatively small shrine in the outer court were teeming with visitors from all over the world, so cover in the congestion was easy. Both Aven and Hoyt had seen pictures of Capt. Vasily, but in the low light and jam-packed environment, he could undoubtedly escape their notice. Aven was also surveying the monks. The robes of the temple members change with the season, a ritual instituted by Thai Kings long ago. A priest from Cambodia, would have a slightly different shade to his robe. Aven also knew the legend behind the "emerald" Buddha, which is actually made of green nephrite, being stolen from Angkor Wat in 1432. If there was to be a reunifying of the countries, the Cambodians would want to put right this iniquitous act.
Security burst through the crowds. Aven looked up to see them running towards a saffron robed warrior priest from Angkor, Emerald Buddha in hand. The guards around him laying motionless on the ground.
"The Emerald Buddha is smaller than a football?" Hoyt looked at Aven with surprise.
"Do you see Vasily?" Aven asked, ignoring his previous statement.
"No!"
Hoyt took off in a sprint to rescue the priceless statue, but the thief looked right past Hoyt's frame meeting Aven's gaze eye to eye. The monk recognized Aven as Kavani's companion in Cambodia. His expression turned to rage, as he fixed his eyes upon Hoyt. The crowd was fleeing the temple in fear, as Hoyt fell back under the monk's control, hitting his head sharply on the stone floor. Aven quickly verified Hoyt's wellbeing. He was still conscious, but not attentive. Hoyt would be fine and Aven was losing time not pursuing the monk. His gut told him allowing the Cambodian to escape was not an option. Thus far he was the only one on the other side with supernatural ties. The fate of the world could actually rest on this decision. Aven left Hoyt to hunt down their enemy. He needed to reestablish a visual, before the monk left the Palace. The streets of Bangkok offered too many places to hide, or simply intermingle with the crowds, even with the curfews "managing the masses" under martial law. Aven caught site of the fleeing priest, and quickened his pace to a sprint. The change in speed, reminded him of the Glock in the small of his back that he had lifted off, one of Suttikul's men. Aven froze and took aim. Over the years of his life, he had virtually utilized every weapon. He was an expert marksman. Canting slightly to account for the distance, the bullet struck the Cambodian's right leg. The target tumbled forward, but gracefully, imploring a Bokator falling technique. Aven began to close in on his injured adversary, when his avenue of approach was filled with men pointing combat rifles in his direction, halting his progression. The militia soldiers, seized Aven's weapon and roughly put him to the ground as they questioned his credentials, which they had found in their aggressive "pat down". Through the legs of the soldiers, abou
t 100 yards away, Aven saw a smirk flash across the face of the monk. The language barrier limited communication, leaving Aven's protests pointless, as the guard unit attending to the monk fell to the ground reminiscent of Hoyt in the Temple. The monk limped away, glancing over his shoulder, back at Aven with a glare of superiority.
"He's getting away! He stole the Emerald Buddha! The soldiers are down!" Aven yelled to no avail, wagging his head in the direction of the monk, unable to point with his hands zip-tied behind his back. Exhausted, he lay his head face down into the stone, coming to the conclusion his immediate concern was escaping his own predicament.
Eventually lifting him back to his feet, the guards ushered Aven back into the Grand Palace. Pleased to be standing, he was more excited to see Hoyt approaching with Vasily "acquired." Hoyt didn't give the slightest signal that he even knew Aven. As they passed, Aven spotted the knife Hoyt was using to motivate the Russian Captain's cooperation.
Aven knew that Hoyt would report to command and ultimately he would be released, but the timeframe was an unpredictable variable. Besides Aven thought, "I will be tormented by Hoyt endlessly recounting his single handed capture of Vasily, even after I had 'left him for dead' no less, and then got myself captured letting the 'super-powered' monk escape”. Aven could definitely postpone that goading for eternity. He resigned to settle into his new accommodation for the necessary duration.
Vasily proved to be a riddle wrapped in enigma. The team knew Aven's assistance would be needed to stay in front, at least level with their enemy. Command explained covertly, but through all the right channels, that Aven was a civilian antiquities expert/mercenary hired by the insurance company, endorsed by UNESCO, to track a potential theft of the sacred Buddha. This allowed the U.S. to stay out of the squeamish politically as well as preserved the team's "undercover" presence in the incident.
Returning to the Government House, Aven noted the body language between the Colonel and the Captain, as he observed the interrogation.