by Alan, Mark
"I apologize for my frank question", Aven retreated. "The symbol was simply fascinating to me and I wanted to learn more... that is why I agreed to return".
"Yes! You are an antiquity specialist, correct? What led a young man to want to study the ancient past?".
Unwilling to reveal too much, but remembering Suttikul's interrogation, Aven began, "Maybe it's because of my name. Antipater was a mysterious man in history and there are so many mysteries that perhaps a deeper understanding of the ancients could answer. I wanted those answers".
"Answers from beyond?"
"We both know that many of those answers exist on another plane. What led you down a path shadowed in the supernatural?" Aven reciprocated.
"My great grandfather was part of a numismatic society called Aerial. Their vast collection not only gave him the liberty to travel to continue to acquire circulating currency, but gave him access to the rare, odd and curious. The exchange of goods over time to resolve debts transferred items of inherent value across cultures. Often secrets accompanied these transactions. Legends grew to add value to items that might otherwise be worthless. Authentication became paramount in deciphering truth from lies. Engaging with the supernatural was a part of the society's ancient rituals. Privy information has proven valuable in advancing my career and securing status, but comes with powerful unions both positive and negative in nature. Leveraging our knowledge has kept my family on the triumphant side of rivals for centuries".
"Your indecisive behavior doesn't tarnish your family's reputation?" Aven risked asking the bold question.
"In a world defined by power, reaching supremacy means coming together with those in the position of strength, regardless of their identity", Suttikul stated matter of factly.
"And betraying every relationship, when influences shift", Aven stated with equal force.
"You challenge with such vigor my moral high ground, and yet you recline with your enemy in hopes of securing the very position of strength you look down on."
"I'm here at your invitation." Aven stressed.
"The end justifies the means?"
"We both live by codes we believe in deeply. We both uphold our actions based on their preserving truth played out in our lives. We find that our paths have now intersected with potential to be mutually beneficial. I will pursue that course to its natural end".
"A diplomat", the Colonel genuinely complimented Aven.
"History has echoed your sentiment", Aven confirmed confidently. "Share with me your understanding of the symbol... How did you come to know of it?"
"It is one of the seminal pieces of the Aerial collection. It is said to have been in their possession for millennia. The symbol is Sumerian and is believed to foretell an epic battle.
Aven wished Kava was present. She would love this... more than likely she had come across this Aerial society in her studies.
The Colonel continued, "Sihamuni believes it predicts the division between the eastern and western mindsets. He has set plans in motion to destroy the west. I agree that the western newcomers in their greed and arrogance have negatively changed the landscape of our world".
"Flaunting our wealth and power has become a default", Aven admitted collectively. "I would argue it is a universal position across all cultures, it is more a question of means".
"We can agree to disagree on this facet. I requested your audience, because I have come to believe the battle is much less man v/s man, as a battle between supernatural forces to reclaim their dominance of earth!"
"What?"
"Sihamuni thinks he is defeating the Superpowers of the west, when in fact he is ushering in the demise of humanity. I found my Grandfather's journal". The Colonel placed a weathered book on the table, opened to a dog-eared page, and spun it for Aven to read. "See for yourself the true interpretation."
...The symbol foretells a time when humanity will fear the very planet seeks their extinction. Great powers will reveal themselves as a source of knowledge and protection. In their vulnerable state, the leaders of the world will resign their positions to align with these forces as a safeguard, but in reality they will have surrendered to an even greater terror.
"You have information to stop the monk?" Aven asked.
"In the Karakum Desert of Darweze, Soviets believe a fiery 'Door to Hell' exists. This phenomena was of interest to the monk, as you call him. Sihamuni made many Russian connections, including Vasily, during his inquiry of this extraordinary pit. Even though he concluded that this was not his entry point to the center of the earth, he gathered many disciples to his cause. The region already had little love for the west. A charismatic leader, commanding unique powers, while depicting the fall of their conditioned enemy..."
"Time is ticking away, and Sihamuni is ahead of us", Aven interrupted.
"Sihamuni has followers everywhere. Dormant cells that he can call upon should the need arise. He assured me, you were not a threat to thwart the plan. Someone is watching your every move. Someone close".
326 B.C
The journey to Rome was uneventful. In the tradition of the Greeks, Kavani prepared cheesecake for Legio, to boost his energy before the expected challenge. She laced the pastry with the tested amount of aconite. Cortland, a trusted companion, traveled with them as well to serve as a go-between to reach out to Allatore. Alexander's ship would be in port early morning and there would be little time to inform Allatore of the decoy plan. Cortland would need to be aboard the tender boat escorting Alexander's landing party. Antipater had already suggested to the Pro Counsel, that Alexander be greeted by emissary's bearing a gift from each of the providences. The idea was well received, but it was still up to Cortland to capture the ear of Allatore discreetly, yet in a timely matter.
At first light, Cortland boarded the tender with the other regional representatives. The sleek lines of Alexander's ship were impressive. Captain Nearchus welcomed them aboard and immediately the emissary from Milan presented Alexander and his bride with luxurious fabrics. Cortland stepped forward next, his breastplate subtly marked with the image of a wolf. He extended a carafe of Limoncello.
Allatore intervened, "The royal cupbearer has not accompanied us on this tour. I will test this spirit before it touches the lips of my Liege and his Queen." Allatore took the bottle from Cortland and noticed an inscription on the parchment wrapping the ceramic.
Cortland continued his tribute, presenting a red horn. "Designed to ward off the Evil Eye and bring good favor". He explained, offering the instrument to Alexander, and making brief eye contact with Queen Roxana.
The other gifts were presented, giving Allatore time to read of Antipater's plan.
The pomp and circumstance surrounding the port reflected the celebratory greeting of the Emperor. Alexander, as well as his entourage, had quickly partaken of the Limoncello, adding vigor to his already present feelings of supremacy.
After greeting those of sway and indulging further in libations, Alexander elevated himself above the crowd to speak. "I, Alexander, King of Macedon, Master of the Universe, am pleased with your welcoming hand. I desire to see the sites of Rome. Learn of your wisdom and crafts. Indulge in your pleasures. Lavish my Queen with your treasures. I am a scholar among scholars, rumors of your Pax Romana, intrigue me. I am the champion among champions. Your games have grown legendary as well as your champion. He bears a name familiar to me and I request an opportunity to duel this illustrious warrior. He should attack with his greatest skill, knowing he will fail. Your champion must be here in the crowd. One of his reputation would certainly want the privilege to behold the legendary Alexander".
Legio parted the crowd to stand before Alexander.
"You come clad in full armor. I see my reputation has proceeded me", Alexander stated almost laughing, he was so amused. Allatore handed him his sword and shield.
The crowd parted and Alexander attacked with force. Legio took a defensive stance, studying the Emperor's fighting style - aggressive and precise. When the op
portunity presented itself, Legio went on the offensive mimicking his opponent's moves. In a relatively short amount of time, Alexander recognized the strategy.
"Have you no ability of your own? No creativity? No pride in your own expertise?"
Succumbing to Alexander's taunting, Legio offered a few distinctive strikes. Alexander seemed to effortlessly counter. He was an amazing fighter. Legio focused on his preparation, recalling all the soldiers he had shadowed in training. Continuing to mix up his fighting style with his natural prowess kept Alexander at bay. As the contest continued, Alexander began to mimic Legio in jest. Observing Alexander open with a different pattern, Legio took his chance and struck with a unique string of blows he had mastered in his spars mimicking Antipater. The final strike, slitting through Alexander's tunic and slightly grazing his skin. Legio had drawn first blood.
"You are Antipater. Regent of Macedon. Remove your helmet and show yourself to me!" Alexander demanded, as his guards entered the space to secure Legio. "Prepare to die!"
In the chaos, Antipater broke through the crowd, sword in hand raised towards Alexander, "It is I that you seek!" But before he could deliver the death blow, Allatore stepped into his path driving a dagger deep into his heart.
Kavani rushed to his side, as Allatore delivered the same dagger to her heart as well. "Traitorous Witch, your actions against our King, have brought you death".
The crowds dispersed before bedlam broke out. Legio tried to escape in the commotion, but Alexander ran him through, "How dare you blot the body of a God!"
Alexander's rage was all consuming. Allatore spoke from a distance. "Great one, this journey has given you triumph. In all your conquests, only one has been tainted with rumors. Many have questioned the chronicle of Antipater and his mistress. Now the truth can be proclaimed in Macedon, at the public hanging of the bodies. The defeat of this traitor and attempted assassin will be told in every region. Your supremacy shall never be doubted again". Gesturing to the soldiers who had secured Legio, "Gather the bodies, and ready the ship for Macedon. May the celebration begin!"
Alexander found serenity in Allatore's words. Addressing the Consulship, perched on a balcony above the port, Alexander shouted, "This man Antipater, he hails from the Southern region?"
Calvinus replied, "Pompeii". Not wanting to put Napoli in danger.
Turning to Nearchus, Alexander announced, "We shall pay this Pompeii a visit in route to our beloved Macedon."
Memory depends for its existence on perception
~ Aristotle ~
Kava asking her questions through the mask made her even more intimidating- almost a Vader effect. Hoyt's attempts to hold his breath after regaining consciousness were futile.
"My mask!"
"Who are you?" Kava demanded.
Hoyt was silent. The fumes were actual paralyzing his diaphragm.
"Your lungs can't inflate and soon you will be unable to breathe", Kava further threatened.
The nerves around his muscles were sending intense pain messages to the brain. Moments before convulsing into a seizure, Hoyt gasped out, "I'm Spetsnaz".
Kava shoved a Valium into his cheek to treat the seizure and quickly placed the mask over Hoyt's face. She fired the flare gun recalling the transport.
"Hoyt was from Russian Special Forces?" Kava thought to herself. "It's unbelievable!"
As countless thoughts began racing in her mind, she fell into a trance. Malin and Citlalli appeared to her.
"It is not yet time for you to know this information." Malin shared rather unsettled.
"Perhaps it is not time for you to reveal this information." Citlalli offered.
"I am familiar with perception altering spells", Kavani divulged. "I am without the necessary herbs".
"What do you require?" Malin insisted.
"Wormwood and Diviner's Sage".
Malin opened her hands and in the right palm, lay the yellow pilly bulbs of wormwood while the left palm held the white, feathery petals of Diviner's Sage. Kava took the plants and her trance subsided. She lit the sage leaves on fire using a torch from Hoyt's utility belt. The robust fragrance filled the air. Removing Hoyt's mask, she squeezed the essential oil of the wormwood into his mouth as he breathed in the smoke scented by the sage. Kava removed her own mask and began an incantation. After a brief moment, she removed the paracord detaining Hoyt, secured both of their masks and hoisted his limp body up to rest on her shoulder. He was able to sustain his own weight. He simply needed steadying. As they started down the mountain to base camp, Hoyt's sense of balance began to return.
"What happened?" Hoyt asked through his mask.
"You stumbled on the crater edge, knocked the wind out of you". Kava replied, influencing his perception as the mind-altering drugs played their part in recreating his experience.
"I have a serious headache, not to mention a sore solar plexus".
"I'm not surprised. You took a serious tumble. I thought I had lost you." Kava went on, pleased with the result of the spell.
The blades of the transport were within earshot. "Did you find what you were looking for?" Hoyt asked.
"It was not what I expected, but I think surveying the island prior to Sihamuni will prove useful".
"Great. Let’s hop our bird off this odiferous island. I need some rest".
Summer 326 B.C.
Alexander was ready to return to his exploits in the east. His fleet was divided in the North Arabian Sea and along the banks of the Indus River, awaiting his return. The trip to the west had proven to be much more than a pleasure cruise. Rome had given him closure. Victory over the only enemies, to ever escape his grasp.
Antipater and Kavani were burned in a public offering to atone for their traitorous behavior and to silence, once and for all, any question regarding Alexander's superiority. An account was recited before the crowds of Alexander learning of Antipater's disloyalty, the excursion to Rome, and Alexander's responsibility to free Macedon of this looming threat. Alexander's skills were glorified and the crowds cheered as the bodies were engulfed in flames.
"Isn't the burning ritual usually a sign of honor?" Allatore asked Aristotle.
"Yes. In this case Alexander chose spectacle over tradition". Their somber demeanor was a marked contrast to the enthusiasm of those around them.
"How could this have been Antipater's plan?" Allatore continued to question, as they retreated from the display. "The words from the emissary clearly stated I must kill Antipater with a strike to his heart".
"Perhaps he came to understand the immortality of the thinking part of the human soul".
"Perhaps the message was compromised or the emissary duplicitous!" Allatore insisted.
Aristotle prattled on, ignoring Allatore's suggestions, "As a thing acts so it is. Since the mind acts with no bodily organ, it exists without the body. And if it exists apart from matter, it therefore cannot be corrupted. And therefore the human mind is immortal”.
"I believe their love was immortal", Allatore reasoned. "A love that will never die".
The last phrase resonated with Aristotle. "Do you still have the parchment bearing the instruction to kill Antipater?"
The words burned into Allatore's mind as images replayed of his brutal actions. He passed the parch to Aristotle, who reread Antipater's instructions. The words were definitely written in Antipater's own hand. Light reflecting off the piece revealed gold lines across the background.
"This gold appears to be in the shape of a heart, accented with three marks, what I believe to be Sinic characters". Aristotle traced the images with his finger for Allatore's benefit.
"I simply assumed it was a Roman embellishment to honor Alexander". Allatore confessed.
"With Antipater, best not to assume anything". Aristotle cautioned, as he entered his library and reached for a book Antipater had received on an expedition to Sinae. Opening the first leave, he found the same characters, identifying their meaning. "These are the three marks of existence shared by all b
eings – impermanence, suffering, and non self. It is part of an ancient ascetic that sees worth in mending, which has been damaged. A philosophy, that treats breakage and repair as part of the history of an object, highlighting the value of the broken moment rather than something to disguise. Antipater described worthless, shattered pottery repaired with precious metals. The golden seams making the common bowl, stunningly beautiful, as well as priceless after its repair. A tangible symbol of this way of life".
"Are you suggesting Antipater expected us to heal his heart with gold?" Allatore could barely believe the words coming from his mouth.
"He was always very spiritual. Even more so when Kavani captured his heart".
"Alchemy is dangerous". Allatore shrugged, becoming more and more open to the concept with each passing moment. "Could you administer the gold?"
"The good news is, they are already dead". Aristotle stated, almost matter of fact, "but I will require your assistance".
"I'm thankful we exchanged the bodies before the burning ceremony." Allatore admitted. "Working with bodies preserved in frankincense and myrrh will be more bearable than charred flesh."
"Is there a smith we can trust to refine the gold?" Aristotle asked, quickly changing the subject before his imagination had a chance to form an image.
Three kinds of friendships – one of utility, one of pleasure, and one of goodness.
~ Aristotle ~
Aven wanted to trust the Colonel, but was equally skeptical of his actual motives. Aven had seen and heard much in his life. The tale was not too unbelievable, but men usually forged bonds for one of three reasons, and Aven could honestly not decide which was the motivating factor.
The staff cleared the table as Colonel Suttikul reached for two shot glasses. He filled each a third full with Frangelico.