Concept date: 23rd December, 2018
First published:14th August, 2019
Status: COMPLETED.
Version: STANDARD.
Age recommendation: 12+
Average Reading Time: Approximately 30 Minutes.Revisions: 3. [Last Edit: October 2020]
Angel-in-charge: Margret Team Assigned: Team 74
Human Time: 33AD-0AHMission: 712678 - 3 - 1098
Angel-in-charge: Margret Team Assigned: Team 74
Human Time: 33AD-0AHMission: 712678 - 3 - 1098
MISSION SUMMARY: "In the year 33AD, two 'prophets' are battling for the souls of humanity in chaotic Judea; Jesus, the son of a Carpenter from Nazareth and Barabbas, son of a slave trader from Jerusalem are fighting each other for the future of mankind. Barabbas commands the Zealots and wants war against Rome - who occupy his land. Jesus teaches love and forgiveness and putting down the sword. Jericho and his team are dispatched when things start to go wrong with the current Time-Line and it can be traced back to 33AD."
NOTES: This episode contains anti-religious sentiments that may disturb some readers!
"This is a work of fiction about a historical character. Any other resemblances to actual persons, living or dead or actual events is purely coincidental." The Author.
"33AD."
1. JERICHO IS SUMMONED BY ANGEL MARGRET.
"The Angel will see you now Inspector Tibbs and she asked that you are not disturbed during this meeting. So please switch off your mirror." He announced and the doors slid open; Jericho turned off his mirror and entered.
Angel Margret pointed to the large armchair placed before her desk and leaned back in her chair; "Sit down Jericho, you will need to study your latest mission very carefully and act accordingly." She pushed a brown paper file across to him and rested both hands upon the large ornate desk; totally bare apart from a little gold bell.
Jericho sat down and picked up the file, he noticed immediately the unusual Security Listing stamped across the cover; 'SERAPHIM ONLY'. He hesitated and tapped the cover; "Ma'am I cannot read the contents of such a file, sorry." He replaced the folder upon the desk and nervously stood up. Angel Margret simply smiled; "I have been ordered by 'himself' to ensure, that my best team handle this case." She pointed a long slender finger towards the ceiling; "I did say that my former human operative will have to see the facts for himself and when I proposed you; he did not object and thus you have a special dispensation to view such a document. Now sit down and take a look."
Jericho eased back in the chair and slowly opened the document; he carefully read the summary and his mouth went dry; little wonder that the file carried such a security listing. He swallowed and wiped his face; "He has allowed me to read this?" He asked quite softly - the Angel nodded; "You can imagine the damage to everything created, if the contents of that file was to reach living human's. Currently, it appears to be just conjecture, rumour and conspiracy theory amongst them. But what is happening back there, can change all that. You must succeed in this Jericho; there is no option allowed for failure, do you understand that?" The Angel spoke with real concern in her voice and folded her arms.
"Brief your team with only what you consider really necessary to achieve the results he demands and expects." The Angel sighed; "Be very, very careful in what you impart about the file to anyone else and that includes the remainder of Team 74." She suddenly stood up an placed both hands back on the desk; Jericho rose quickly and stood, clutching the file. "Commit the contents of that summary to your memory. The file cannot leave this room."
"You will be entering the 'Forbidden Era' and you will proceed with the utmost caution whilst on this Mission, you have my authority to change only what is directly required to achieve what himself requires, other than that, you can exercise your usual discretion in any other matters, that arise during the mission." Angel Margret smiled a little; "I would suggest you take what advise you can obtain, from your 'friend' John on these matters."
Jericho nodded and replaced the file upon the desk. He didn't need to re-read it; the summary was burned into his mind and he bowed a little and headed for the door. Angel Margret called after him as her door slid open; "Watch yourself Jericho, the 'Dark One' is unlikely to miss an opportunity like this, to make mischief out of the situation."
In the quiet corridor outside the Angel's suite of offices, Jericho noticed that his hand trembled a little as he switched on his mirror. He had a feeling that the 'Dark Prince's interference may be the least of his worries on this mission. Mr. Colgate appeared next to him - unsmiling; "Inspector Tibbs, the Angel has arranged for all that you may require, to complete the mission. Costumes, travel papers, discrete extra's, money, local human agents and a knight of God - should you require one - have been provided. Good luck."
Rather unusually, he held out his hand and Jericho shook it slowly. Mr. Colgate gripped his hand firmly and spoke softly; "The Angel has expressed her total confidence and faith in you; to himself. Her staff - myself included - know that you would never betray that faith and so I really do wish you the best." He smiled and walked away.
That little revelation didn't make Jericho any happier about the forthcoming mission; which if he had any sense, he would have refused. But refusal wasn't an option for a Temporal Detective Inspector and so, he activated his mirror and returned to the lighthouse with a heavy heart.
He stood outside the lighthouse on a warm sunny evening on the 6th July, 1901 and watched the three mast sailing ship heading towards the horizon, several seagulls dived and swooped in the light blue sky, in strange silence. He glanced at his small fob watch; 7.35pm - as always.
Mr. Harris was waiting - as usual - by the large black doors to take his coat and hat, Jericho slowly walked up to the doors and smiled at him; "Ask everyone to assemble in the study please." Mr. Harris nodded and helped him remove his long frock coat; "James, the Knight of God, has already arrived, Lady Alexandra and Mr. Wilson are entertaining him in there sir." Jericho sighed again and headed for the study, he turned to Mr. Harris; "And where is Mr. Jones?" Harris smiled; "Apparently helping young Ruth with her reading lessons." That did make Jericho smile; "Bloody young love; the poor buggers." He whispered and pushed into the study to greet his very important guest.
They had to wait for a few minutes for Owen; he arrived in a hurry and tried to apologise to everyone, but his apologies were waved aside by Jericho with a smile. Mr. Harris kept up a constant flow of drinks and Jericho called the briefing to order and firstly, pointed out the James [a Knight of God] will be accompanying the team on this particular assignment as an 'Observer' everyone glanced at each other on that statement. James sipped his drink and said quietly; "Jericho is in charge of this little adventure; I'm along for the ride and to assist if I can." Everyone knew that this was a serious breach of protocol; A Knight of God was only second to an Angel and certainly shouldn't take orders or directions from a mere Temporal Detective Inspector!
"I see a big pile of shite and a big bloody fan." Whispered Wilson to Owen and everyone fell silent as Mr. Harris opened the study door and John wandered in without saying a word and sat in the corner; he accepted a glass of red wine from Mr. Harris and half smiled at everyone. Jericho cleared his throat; "I've asked John to sit in on this one; he knows the era really well." John raised his glass - but said nothing - as usual.
"I've uploaded all details as required to everyone's mirror's and they are quite extensive; I would suggest everyone take some time and read up about the situation. Well, except James of course, he doesn't need a mirror!" Jericho chuckled to himself and then continued; "It all started with a cave in a desolate part of Israel, known in the era; in which we're interested, as Judea. The year we're interested in is 33AD."
There was a little bit of surprise and Owen just came out with it: "Surely 33AD is part of the forbidden Era; no one is allowed there without 'the BOSSES' express permission...…" The look on Jericho's face stopped Owen in mid sentence. "Oh shit!" was all he added - Wilson was right about the big pile of poo and the fan, he thought.
"That's why we have James with us - the light room won't allow us - to jump to the 'Forbidden Era' and the mirrors certainly wouldn't take us there." Alex spoke softly in Wilson's ear and he nodded his agreement. Alex sipped her drink and threw a glance at James; a gorgeous, big strapping young man and then she thought about Wilson - what a quandary - what is a girl to do when faced with this pair; which one does a girl choose? Then a very naughty, but delicious thought flicked through her mind; why not both - together! She actually chuckled and received strange looks from them both. To her surprise, she actually blushed a little, but blamed that on the brandy.
Jericho continued; "It appears in November 2020, a young goat herder was caught in a desert storm and so, pushed his small flock into a nearby cave. Whilst sheltering there he noticed something sticking out the sand and he dug around it with his hands. It was a Roman travel chest and he knew that people would pay good money for it. He loaded the box onto his donkey and when the storm abated, carried it into the local town and to a man who he knew was a trader in antiquities. That man; Muhammad Kasim purchased the box and then he opened it. The anthology about 'Pandora's box' springs to mind."
Everyone was listening in silence and Jericho sipped his brandy: "The box contained several pieces of parchment in a language that Kassim couldn't understand. He was clever enough to take the box to the local university to have the papers translated. That's when the shit hit the fan - so as to speak." Owen and Wilson exchanged a smile at that comment.
"The language was Roman Latin and the papers could be dated to 33AD and were the personal writings of a Roman Tax Collector and part time slave trader; Atticus Veris. The papers were correspondence between him and his brother who lived in Rome. Only one of the papers contained references that set the world alight; when the contents were made public some weeks later." Jericho consulted his mirror and continued; "The letter that Atticus sent to his brother in 33AD contained direct, first hand contact with the Historical persoonia called Jesus of Nazareth and what he wrote; will cause a bombshell in the Christian world. The ramifications for the current Time Line are enormous and gives a huge advantage to the 'Dark Prince'."
Jericho looked quite grim; "Our mission is to return to 33AD and discover if those letters are genuine and if not; make sure they never surface in the future." John held up a hand and Jericho nodded for him to speak; "What if you find they are genuine; what are your orders then?" Wilson whispered to Alex; "Now that's to the point; I've always liked the quiet man, now I know why."
Jericho shrugged his shoulders; "Our orders are the same for both scenarios." Every One exchanged shocked looks and thought the same; "Cover-up."
"There is a human agent that will assist us and we'll meet them when we arrive in Jerusalem." Jericho added then gestured to James; "Whenever your ready James." The Knight smiled; "Best we get going." Everyone was gone from the study and Mr. Harris started to clear away the dirty glasses. Ruth appeared and started to help; "Did John really accompany them?" She asked, with surprise in her voice really apparent. Mr. Harris nodded, he made no further comment and the pair returned to the kitchen.
2. JERUSALEM; 33AD - A DIVIDED CITY.
The little group passed unnoticed by the crowds through the old North gate into the city. Owen was leading their donkey and chatting quietly with Wilson; James and Jericho walked together - they were dressed as wealthy merchants of the period and some beggars called out to them for alms.
Alex, who walked behind them, gave the beggars some coin and they immediately began fighting over the money. James sighed and turned back to Alex; "Do not do that again; it will attract the city guard." Jericho agreed with that and the group hurried away from the scene. John walked slowly behind the group; looking around. Alex joined him, sulking a little over her reprimand from James.
Jericho suddenly stopped for a few seconds and stared into the crowd that were gathering around the troublesome beggars. "I thought I saw someone I know." He muttered to James and did not smile.
Alex noted that the beggars stopped their brawling and stood aside as John walked past; One fell to his knee's and tried to grab the hem of John's cloak with withered and crippled hands; "Forgive me Rabbi, please forgive me!" He called out, falling onto the dirt and John placed his hand upon the wretched man's head, then whispered something that Alex couldn't make out. The beggar lay in the dirt for a few seconds, then rose slowly to his knee's; the other poor wretches gathered around the man. John caught up with Alex and simply smiled at her; "I think they mistake me for someone else."
Alex nodded, but could hear the shouting and crying behind them; the few words she could make out were; cured, miracle, Messiah and son of God. Some members of the city guard had arrived and were beating the beggars with sticks and so they shuffled away in some joy, mixed with a little despair. She stared at John, who pushed both hands through his dark hair and smiled at her - again; "As I say, I must look like someone that they know." Alex said nothing and the pair caught up with the remainder of the group. They had not seen the incident and Alex wondered. if they should know about, what just apparently happened.
They were stopped, near the entrance to the street 0f carpenters, by a tall young man wrapped in a fine blue coat with a hood that hid his features. He spoke directly to Jericho; "The angel of the Lord has sent you?" Jericho nodded; "That angel is called truth." He replied quietly. The young man threw back the hood and smiled; "Welcome to Jerusalem Mr. Tibbs." Garic was dark skinned with dark hair and eyes; he had rugged features and boasted a small black beard. He gripped Jericho's arm and pulled him close; "We are staying at my father's house on the street of goldsmith's, near the temple itself." He gestured for the group to follow him and they made their way quickly through the noisy crowds.
Everyone noticed the large amounts of Roman soldiers about the streets and standing outside government buildings and temples. Garic gestured towards a large group of soldiers formed up outside a fine looking house; "That's the local magistrates house, Barabbas has threatened to kill him and so, the Roman Governor is taking no chances." James asked Garic about the man called Barabbas and Garic stopped in his tracks and whispered; "This is not the place for such a discussion my big friend - wait until we arrive at my fathers house."
He then saw John walking with Alex; "Who is that man?" He asked Jericho and wiped his face with a trembling hand that all could see. Jericho gripped his arm; "That's an old friend of mine called John; you don't have to concern yourself with him." Garic said nothing more and the group hurried into the small, but apparently comfortable house - in the street of Goldsmith's - directly opposite the entrance to the Great Temple of Jerusalem, which thronged with worshippers, merchants, priests and soldiers.
The house was surprisingly cool and they were greeted by two maid servants bearing trays of wine and figs. Both girls stared long and hard at John as they moved about the visitors, who settled themselves on cushions about a central, low wooden table. Garic smiled broadly and sipped wine from a silver cup; "I bid you welcome to my fathers house." He said proudly and dismissed the girls from the room. The smile disappeared and he gestured towards James; "You ask about Barabbas?" James nodded; yes.
Garic sighed; "The man is a leader of the Zealots who wish to throw off the yoke of Rome - by the sword if necessary. He is quite fanatical in his beliefs and there is a large reward in gold offered by the Roman Governor for his head. He claims the divine gift of Prophecy and wants a holy war in the Lords name." Garic shifted on his cushions and fell silent for a few seconds; "He will plunge Judea into a bath of blood and currently only one man stands in his way; the Prophet Jesus has the ears of the common people and he preaches a very different way, much to the anger of the Temple elders and priests who secretly support Barabbas. The carpenters life is in danger every moment, yet it is whispered that he approaches the city, even as we speak." Garic stared again at John and fell silent.
Owen tapped Alex's arm and whispered; "Why does everyone stare at our John with that strange look of fear and wonderment?" Alex admitted that she didn't know and remained silent about the incident at the North Gateway. She glanced at John, who sat sipping wine and looking about the room, he had also said nothing about the same incident. What the hell did I witness? Alex wondered and smiled, when John caught her staring at him.
"A shekel for your thoughts." He murmured and finished his drink. Jericho leaned forward and spoke directly to Garic; "I need to find a certain Roman Tax Collector who goes by the name of Atticus Veris. Have you any information on him?" Garic nodded slowly and sipped more wine; "He is a strange Roman who arrived with the previous Governor and was given a Tax District that covers Nazareth and other towns. He is also known to trade slaves; but only young pretty females - he pays top prices for the right women and girls. People say that he exports them to Rome, where his brother sells them for small fortunes."
Garic jabbed a finger at Alex and smiled broadly; "You are sitting on a fortune with such a woman!" Jericho nodded - unsmiling; "Do you know where he resides Garic?" The young man leaned back on his cushions, a concerned look upon his face; "He has a fine villa just outside Nazareth and is popular with the current Roman Governor - not a man to mess with Mr. Tibbs."
Alex placed her cup down and folded her arms; "Why do you say he is strange for a Roman?" Owen nodded; "I wondered about that." He muttered and finished his wine. Garic looked quite grin and clasped his hands together and leaned forward, his voice just above a whisper; "There are several stories about the man, some say he is a devil in disguise with strange dark powers. He has been known to simply disappear from the villa without using a door or window. Once, a fierce slave that worked his gardens, attacked him with a shovel and Atticus simply raised a hand to him and the man fell dead at his feet!"
Everyone exchanged glances; there was certainly more to this than anyone first thought. Jericho grunted and smiled at James; "Well, I think we best meet this mysterious Roman letter writer." James agreed and everyone rose from the table. That's when a young maid slipped quietly into the room with a look of real fear upon her face and addressed Garic; "Master, the street is full of Roman soldiers searching for two wealthy merchants and their servants. They are searching every house."
Garic said nothing, but turned to Jericho, his face a picture of fear. Jericho griped his arm and smiled; "Go, gather your servants and greet the Romans with smiles and wine. They will not find us here, I promise." Garic wiped his face and with the maid, left the room. James smiled at Jericho and nodded; "Time to visit the tax collector." Everyone could hear the banging upon the doors - the soldiers were here.
Garic was pushed aside by the soldiers who refused wine and figs and searched his house thoroughly. The Centurion, a fat man with an ill-fitting tunic, seemed a little surprised that only Garic and his household staff were on the premises - That didn't go un-noticed by the quick witted Garic.
Marcus wiped his sweaty face and spoke to Garic quietly; "The Governor himself needs to find two wealthy merchants, new to the city, who have three servants with them. A dumb looking boy, a big Nubian and a woman that could rival Venus herself." Garic also noticed that the Centurion never mentioned the quiet man called 'John' - he wondered about the significance of that omission. The Centurion ordered his men out and they left the villa quietly; Garic saw that, they didn't search any other houses remaining in the street.
He watched them go with mixed feelings; he should have been arrested and dragged off for questioning and probably some torture. They clearly knew he had connections with the strangers to the city - but why had they left him alone?
Garic walked slowly back into the now empty reception room and stared about the place; how the hell did the Roman's find out about Jericho's visit? The answer was clear and dangerous; someone knew about the temporal detectives visit and had betrayed them to the Roman's - but who? He slumped upon some cushions and one of his maids refilled his cup. She hesitated for a few seconds then asked; "Master, how did they just disappear?"
He just smiled and murmured; "They work for God; they can do things like that." The girl gave him a puzzled look and returned to the kitchen - none the wiser. Garic sipped his wine and thought about the man called 'John' - having seen the Rabbi called Jesus of Nazareth, he wondered who the hell was this man called 'John'?
3. ATTICUS VERIS.
The little group stood quietly in the grove of olive trees and stared at the large imposing villa of the Tax Collector Atticus Veris. It was surrounded by a high wall of brick and stone; there was only one entrance and that was guarded by a small group of Roman legionnaires. "He certainly likes his security." Wilson said simply, then added; "Well, we can't just walk up and ask for an appointment - not with the damn Roman's already after us - so what's next on the agenda?" He spoke to Jericho who was deep in conversation with James.
James turned and smiled at Wilson; "If you can't get to see someone; you make damn sure they come to you." The three men all stared at Alex, who folded her arms and shook her head; "No bloody way!" She said with some determination. James smiled broadly; "We won't really sell you - just lend you out for a while." Wilson chuckled; "Like a library book." That comment didn't improve her mood.
But a smiling Jericho spoke quietly to Alex and she sighed loudly, but agreed - the mission was that important. Owen, who had been trying to pick olives and not paying attention, asked Wilson what was the new plan? Wilson slapped him on the back and half smiled; "Well, baby brother, the answer is simple. We're going to sell Alex!" Owen just stared at him - speechless. The big man chuckled; "Our friend won't resist the chance of buying a female like Alex - he'll scuttle out of his fortress and we can have a cosy chat."
"Blimey, if I had the money; I'd buy Alex!" Owen muttered and everyone just stared at him - especially Alex. He said nothing further and trailed behind the others as they made their way to the nearby road. They stopped suddenly, standing by the roadside was an old man leaning upon a thick staff; he appeared to have a goat on a lead - like a pet dog. He ran some fingers through his white bead and smiled; "I bid you welcome my friends." Bowing slightly, well, as much as his age and back allowed him.
Jericho stared hard at the old man; those sharp unusual blue eyes [for this region] and the smile, made him think. He smiled broadly; "Caphus, you've changed a bit since we last met." and embraced the old man like a loving son to his father. Caphus wiped a little tear from his face and smiled; "It's been many years Jericho - too many years, I think." Jericho gripped his arm and asked quietly; "How did you know I was here, my old friend?" Cephus chuckled; "Your description is all across Judea - and your companions - the Governor really wants to talk to you!"
"That won't make our task any easier." James sighed and then Caphus turned to Alex and smiled; "I take it, your the honey pot to lure Atticus out of his hole?" Alex just shrugged her shoulders. Jericho rubbed his chin; "Can you help us on this one?" The old man grinned a little; "I can. My Grandson holds auctions of property and slaves at the market. He could easily spread the word about a certain beauty that has come to be sold here - a private auction with only very wealthy patrons invited. Our man Atticus simply could not resist that."
"Come to my villa tonight Jericho. You will be safe there and enjoy the hospitality that an old friend can offer." Caphus gripped Jericho's arm and added; "You know it well; I haven't moved since you were last here. I'm just older, that's all." Wilson nodded; "It has to be better than wandering around the bloody desert in the middle of the night." So it was agreed to accept the hospitality that Caphus offered. That's when the old man noticed John standing at the rear of the group and gripped his staff. he tried to bow, but couldn't make it. "You keep very high company these days Jericho." He stared at John and gestured towards the road.
"This way my lord. I take it that you know he approaches the city, even as we speak." He spoke directly to John, who just nodded. The group set off behind the old man and his goat. Owen whispered to Alex; "Who's approaching the city?" She smiled and glanced at John, but spoke to Owen; "Jesus Christ."
"The Jesus Christ?" Owen spluttered quietly and Alex nodded; "Yes, that's the one." he turned to John; "Did you hear that? Jesus bleeding Christ is coming here!" John just grinned and after an hour, they arrived at Caphus's modest villa. As they approached the house, Jericho passed around his hip-flask and insisted everyone drink a little toast to their mission - they all did.
Old Caphus kept his word and the team were warmly welcomed into his home with bread, fruit and wine. They sprawled about his modest reception room and chatted, laughed and generally relaxed. Within in the hour, everyone was quiet, sleeping in the position they fell down in. Caphus viewed his work with satisfaction and his two servants stood ready with vases of oil. "Take the girl, wrap her carefully in a cloak and leave her outside - well away from the villa. She is worth a small fortune which is mine now." The two men nodded and carried Alex from the room.
Caphus stared at the sleepers and smiled; "So Mr. Jericho Tibbs, you really did think I would still bow and scrap to you after all these years?" He tipped over a large vase by the window and oil spread across the floor, he stood by the door and waited for his men to return and finish pouring the oil. "You practically abandoned me after all the help I gave you and you just expect me to jump to your whistle again?" He spat the bitter words out; they were directed at Jericho. " A friend tells me that burning is the only way to destroy creatures like you and so be it." He said softly to himself and smiled as his two henchman finished pouring the oil.
The old man took a small lamp with a flickering flame and threw it upon the floor and fled the room. Outside, the three men watched as the villa was consumed by flames. "Get the wagon and load the girl, we will take her to her new master and collect much gold." Caphus leaned on his staff and smiled - it had been a very satisfying and soon, profitable night.
The wagon disappeared down the dirt road with the men sharing a goatskin of wine. The old man's goat wandered behind, tied with a small piece of rope. They reached the crossroads and stopped; approaching down the road was Atticus Veris and a troop of cavalry - right on time. He greeted Caphus with a raised hand; "You have her?" The old man nodded and Atticus dismounted and joined the old man by the rear of the wagon. Caphus pulled back the thick curtain; the wagon was empty.
"What fucking trickery is this?" Atticus grabbed him by the hood of his cloak and threw him on the dry dirt. There was silence and Atticus suddenly realised that everyone was still, his men, the horses and even the bloody goat. He pulled out his sword and prodded the old man who appeared like a statue; his mouth open and eyes wide.
Atticus turned slowly and saw the little group standing by the roadside ditch. Jericho stepped forward and spoke quietly; "Atticus Veris?" Atticus nodded - he knew who this creature was and that it had stopped time itself for everyone else. He lowered his sword and pushed it back into the scabbard. "So you have me creature, what now?" He folded his arms and stared at the Temporal Detectives like they had just crawled from hell itself.
"Creature?" Muttered Owen to Wilson, who just shrugged his shoulders. Jericho looked quite bemused by the 'creature' reference and pointed to Caphus, still prone on the floor and motionless. "I take it that's what the old man calls us?" Atticus nodded; "He told me all about you creatures and your evil ways. How could I possibly fight the spawn of the devil itself?" He was quite startled when everyone started to laugh. Jericho shook his head; "Atticus, we are quite the opposite of that!"
Jericho explained, with some patience, just who they actually worked for. Atticus ran a hand over his face and then stared hard at John; "I've encountered him before, it's the one they call the Rabbi from Nazareth." John sighed; "Everyone gets me mixed up with my big brother." Owen stared at John and gripped hold of Alex's arm; "Did you hear what he just said? Jesus bloody Christ is his big brother!" Alex nodded - somehow not truly surprised by that revelation - after what she witnessed with the beggars earlier.
Wilson turned to James and said quietly; "What the fuck has he been doing, I mean, hiding out with bloody Jericho for years?" James smiled; "Maybe finding a little peace of mind." Wilson grunted and wiped his face; he had been sharing with Jesus Christ's fucking brother all these years!
Jericho turned back to Atticus; "So you actually did meet Jesus of Nazareth?"
Atticus nodded, still staring at John; "I spoke with him and some of his disciples a few months ago. His words … his words touched me in a strange way, they seem to contain some sort of deep truth - especially about YAHWEH and his inaction with the affairs of men." He turned back to Jericho; "What do you want of me?"
Jericho explained about the letters to his brother and the damning statement about what Jesus had said about God [his father]. Atticus again nodded; "I wrote only what he actually said about him. I took nothing away nor added anything else. I wrote the truth." James and Jericho exchanged a strange glance and Jericho almost smiled; "Thank you for your honesty Atticus Veris."
That's when James went still and silent, hand raised against the side of his head. Alex whispered to Owen; "He's getting a message - probably from Angel Margret." Owen folded his arms; "I keep forgetting that Knights of God don't need bloody mirrors like we do." James lowered his hand and smiled; "Yes, thank you Atticus. We have to go now and you will resume your life as before we met. You will remember nothing of this."
The team were gone in an instant and Atticus found himself standing over the crying and babbling Caphius, at the rear of the empty wagon. He kicked the old man in frustration; "What the fuck am I doing here, in the middle of fucking nowhere, with you, you old twat?" Caphus actually didn't know, but could see the smoke and flames from his villa filling the night sky. He ran screaming, back towards the burning ruins of his house - well, as best as his age and infirmities allowed him!
Atticus watched as Caphus's henchman followed their master with the wagon - the goat still tethered behind. He spoke to the officer commanding his cavalry troop about what the fuck where they all doing here - in the middle of the night, in the fucking desert. The officer didn't know. "Let's get back to the villa and have some fucking wine." Was all he muttered and mounted the horse; he was having a very strange night indeed.
4. A LITTLE DECEPTION IS
"How the hell did you know that old bastard was going to betray and poison us?" Wilson asked as they approached Garic's father's house. Jericho smiled; "I saw him watching us when we entered the North Gate and I knew he would make contact at some point. I also know him from old and he was a deft hand at poisoning people he didn't like. hence the antidote in my flask, that I insisted you all drink." James chuckled; "I wondered about the strange taste of that brandy. I thank you my old friend, but human poison- any poison - has no effect on knights of God."
Jericho nodded; "I know, but we all had to drink to keep up the celebratedly appearance of the drink. How I left you out, old Caphus would certainly have been suspicious." James agreed with that. Wilson nocked on the door and smiled at Alex; "Your new master is probably well pissed off that he didn't even get to look over his goods." Alex stuck up a single finger - but smiled.
"I loved the fact, that you let him burn down his own house. That's a nice touch." Wilson said to Jericho; who just smiled. The door slowly opened.
A nervous maid servant showed them in and whispered to Jericho; "The young master has an important visitor Sir." Jericho and James exchanged a glance - caught by Alex and Wilson - "I know, I'm expecting him." Jericho replied. But Owen whispered to Alex; "How the hell does he know these things?" Alex shrugged her shoulders; "Angel Margret wanted her best Inspector for this one and she certainly got that." Owen said nothing more and the group wandered into the reception room and saw Garic sitting with a tall, bearded young man with dark hair and eyes. He looked a great deal like John.
They both rose from their cushions; Jericho and James both bowed and the other team members quickly followed. Owen whispered to Alex; "Oh fucking Christ - it's him!" Alex smiled; "You certainly got that right." John didn't bow, but stepped forward and embraced his brother with real affection. They gripped each other for a few minutes and parted; both smiling. "Here we fucking go." was all Jericho said to the amazement of the others.
Well, the outright screaming, shouting row lasted for a good few minutes as everyone else waited outside in the small hallway. A totally amazed Alex asked Jericho quietly; "Are they always like this?" Jericho nodded and sighed; "Yes, since they both learned to walk and talk. Only their mother could break up their rows. I really wish she was here now to slap some sense into the pair of them." James agreed with that and accepted a cup of wine from Garic, who was doing his best to show hospitality, while the arguments raged in his reception room.
"How long will they keep this up/" Wilson muttered and sipped his wine; with a big grin. James sighed; "Time for action I think Jericho." The pair both turned to Alex and smiled. "Oh no! - no bloody way am I going in there to split those two up!" Jericho smiled and pushed her towards the door; "Like their dad, they both have a serious soft spot for beautiful women; especially tough, straight talking ones." He gently opened the door and shoved Alex through.
The shouting subdued a little, then faded into silence and only Alex's voice could be heard. "Our girl was never one to mince her words; even to a couple of God's." Wilson said - still grinning. Alex opened the door and gestured for everyone to come in - all was quiet between the brothers - for now.
The brothers sat at opposite ends of the room and sipped wine. The silence was palatable and was finally broken by Alex, who waved her wine cup about and quite nonchalantly asked: "Has it been a long time since you two got together?"
The two brothers simultaneously jumped from their cushions and threw their wine cups at each other; the row started with finger pointing and shouting. Everyone was back in the hallway and Jericho sighed; "You just had to open your mouth - didn't you?" He said to Alex and groaned loudly. Alex just folded her arms and was about to reply, but thought better of it and remained silent. Garic's maid servant grabbed her master's arm and whispered into his ear.
"She's here. She's here to see John." Garic broke into a huge smile. "Who the fuck is here now?" Asked Owen and then fell silent as the small woman pushed past them, pulling back the hood of her travelling cloak. She was, clearly, still a beautiful woman. Wilson took a swig from his wine cup; she must have been an absolute stunner in her younger days, to still look that good.
Jericho and James both bowed; she smiled at Jericho; "Thank you Jericho for looking out for my boy." Then sighed and pushed open the door to the reception room. "Thank God for that." was all James said. Owen turned to Alex and before he could say anything, Alex nodded; "Yes, that's their poor, long suffering mother." Then smiled quite broadly as the row - again - subdued, then lapsed into silence.
Owen, who was nearest the door, turned to Alex with real surprise on his face and in his voice; "Did I really hear St. Mary, the blessed Queen of Heaven, call the sons of God.. a pair of useless bloody twats?" Alex nodded; "Yep, mothers have to do that sometimes, much as she loves the troublesome pair." James and Jericho chuckled, but Wilson laughed outright. Garic just gripped his wine goblet and said nothing - in modern terms; he was suffering a little shock.
Finally the door creaked open and Mary smiled at everyone; "Do please come in and enjoy the wine, I must apologise for my boys, they do get carried away discussing politics and religion. I've banned both subjects; for now." Everyone trooped back into the room and Owen whispered to Alex; "Discussion - they call that discussion?" Alex grinned and accepted a refill from a very nervous maid.
The two brother were sitting together; in silence. Their mother eased herself down on a couple of cushions and turned to Jericho; "I hope my boy hasn't been too much trouble Jericho?" He shook his head; "A real pleasure Ma'am. Prince John is always welcome in my house...as his brother would be...and yourself, of course." Mary smiled and accepted a wine cup from a young maid, who was shaking from head to foot. She gripped the young girls hand whispered in her ear. The transformation was electric; the young girl straightened herself up and with a big smile, left the room.
"Now, I know Jericho and I do believe, young man, that you are one of George's Knights?" James nodded and went to stand - she waved him down. "James Ma'am." He said and sat back down - smiling. Owen turned to Wilson; "Who the fuck is George?" Wilson sighed and jerked a thumb upwards; "Himself." was all he said. Owen shook his head in disbelief; "George - fucking hell! - George is his real name?"
Jericho quietly introduced Owen and Wilson to Mary, who smiled at both and asked the pair about their lives - when living - Wilson was, for once, very polite about the details of his demise. There were no profanities in his story; which amazed everyone. Owen just mumbled about his life in the Monastery and Mary sipped her wine and then said quietly; "Oh no, your a young man, you should be chasing girls or whoever you fancy, not wasting your time in such a place."
Finally, Jericho introduced Alexandra. Mary did smile and nodded to herself; "I've heard about you Alex - may I call you Alex? - my errant brother-in-law David has quite a thing about you." Owen turned to Wilson and whispered; "Brother-in-law David, that has to be..." Wilson nodded; "Yep, the bloody devil."
Alex sat back on her cushions and clutched her wine cup. "I have met him Ma'am...on a couple of missions, some time ago." Her voice just above a whisper. Mary turned to Jericho; "I will ask George to keep an eye on that. David really does like beautiful, intelligent and strong human females and this one [indicating Alex] ticks every box he has. Keep a close eye on her - yes?" Jericho nodded and swallowed down his wine.
Mary suddenly rose and everyone rose with her. She turned to 'her boys' and said with some authority in her voice; "Come on you two. We're going to have a lovely family dinner and talk politely about things. NO politics or Religion allowed. Thank you again Jericho and it was lovely to meet you all. I will be keeping a special eye on you Alex." The three simply disappeared and the room was totally silent for a few seconds; then trembled with unrestrained laughter.
Garic still sat clutching his goblet - finally he said; "What the fuck just happened?" No-one answered him; they were too busy drinking and laughing. Wilson raised his wine cup and said softly; " Here's to the deception of happy families. Even the bloody holy one's." Everyone agreed with that - except Garic who just raised his glass and repeated; "What the fuck just happened?"
5. THE SHOW MUST GO ON.
"So now, we must mug a Roman courier and steal the bloody mail?" Wilson asked Jericho as they made their way to the city's North gate. Jericho chuckled; "Not the way, I would have phrased it, but your close." The pair stood by the little bakery shop, just yards from the four or five Roman legionaries manning the gateway. The smell of fresh baked bread was gorgeous and Jericho gave Wilson a few coins from the mission purse. He purchased a couple of sweet rolls and both stood nibbling, watching for a certain group of Romans to approach.
"So now, we must mug a Roman courier and steal the bloody mail?" Wilson asked Jericho as they made their way to the city's North gate. Jericho chuckled; "Not the way, I would have phrased it, but your close." The pair stood by the little bakery shop, just yards from the four or five Roman legionaries manning the gateway. The smell of fresh baked bread was gorgeous and Jericho gave Wilson a few coins from the mission purse. He purchased a couple of sweet rolls and both stood nibbling, watching for a certain group of Romans to approach.
"Atticus has sent the letters to his brother in Rome. They would have travelled with other messages, parcels and letters from citizens, who could afford to send such things, all the way to Rome." Jericho muttered, really enjoying his little snack. Under his cloak, he discretely consulted his mirror. He gestured down the busy thoroughfare towards a horse and cart; there were another group of about a half dozen Roman soldiers accompanying it. "They're heading for the docks to catch the boat for Rome." He added and finished his snack.
"Is that damn casket on board?" Wilson asked, wiping his mouth. Wine would be good after that excellent little delicacy. Jericho nodded and they watched the cart pass through the gateway; the gate guards just nodded their greeting at the two sitting on the wagon and the other soldiers. Jericho and Wilson casually walked behind the cart and followed it out, onto the dirt road. They could see Owen sitting by the roadside, holding tightly onto 'Freddie's' reins. That damn donkey had been in more missions that they had! But Owen was very fond of the mangy old bugger and always volunteered to look after him. Freddie was one of the best donkey's Supplies had in stock.
On the other side of the road was James and Alex, who was tightly wrapped in a long cloak; to hide her figure and had the hood up. James watched the cart and guards approaching, he smiled at Alex; "Now I know how bloody Dick Turpin felt." She just smiled. James gestured to Jericho and time stopped. Wilson walked forward and through the still soldiers, then pulled the flap back on the wagon. He rummaged amongst the various items until he found a bundle of rough cloth; he pulled it back a little and turned to Jericho; "Got it." and dragged the small travelling chest from the wagon, keeping it wrapped in the cloth.
Owen helped him heave it up on Freddie and the little group was ready to go. They walked slowly back towards the gateway and passed through. James restarted time and they watched, as the Roman cart trundled on; the men totally unaware they had just been robbed!
They made their way back to Garic's house; Jerusalem was swarming with people, some carrying palm leaves and all shouting and talking happily with each other. A couple of young men shouted at them; "Your going the wrong way brothers! He comes into the city!" Jericho just sighed and they reached Garic's house without any incident. Owen stabled the donkey, whilst Wilson discretely carried the bundle of 'cloth' into the house. Garic ordered wine and food for his guests - again. Jericho and James prised open the casket and began sorting through the correspondence it held.
Wilson picked up one letter and chuckled, reading it slowly. "Anything funny?" James asked. Wilson nodded; "Atticus has written that he can get his hands on a real beauty; one that could fetch a small fortune in Rome. He says that Caphus has told him that, she has a figure like Venus and breasts like cooking pots! Do you think he means our Alex?" They both laughed, but Alex wasn't amused; "Bloody cooking pots?" She muttered, adding; "Bastard." Under her breath.
Jericho held up one and nodded; "This is it. Well. He didn't lie. That sounds exactly like what he [Jesus] would say about his father." He lowered the letter and accepted a cup of wine from Garic. That's when James held up another piece of correspondence and didn't look happy. "Atticus states in this one, that people often mistake Jesus's brother for him. Jesus apparently told him to watch out for John; that he'll do anything to thwart his plans for humanity. Can you imagine what this would do to people's idea's about Christ?"
"Good job you stole it then." John stood in the doorway and smiled. He wandered over and slumped down on some cushions; Garic gave him wine and shuffled away. "My dear brother - at this moment in time - is mounted on a bloody donkey and making a grand entrance into the city. He has balls - I'll give him that - but does he really expect dad to interfere? He's off his nut." John sipped his wine and Alex sat opposite him. "What do you mean Sir; Interfere, I mean?"
John smiled; "He thinks that dad will save his dumb arse before they nail him up on that cross. He's trying to force his hand. Make him interfere in human history. That's why, he made that poor sap Judas betray him. The poor bastard really didn't want to; but he made him and we all know how that ended." John sighed and lay back on the cushions; "Why do you think he [Jesus] shouts; 'why the fuck have you forsaken me?' when hanging on the cross? He really thought dad would interfere; send a couple of Knights or something. That must have come, as a real wake up call." John actually chuckled. "He always said, if this one failed, he would try again in another few centuries. He's bloody persistent; I'll give him that."
John didn't even notice the shocked silence in the room. The whole thing was staged to get his father [the BOSS] to actually interfere in humanity's history! Alex downed her wine and really could use a bloody brandy right now. John shrugged his shoulders; "He really didn't think, that all the stuff he preached about would actually catch on. Now that came as a surprise, he was dossed on that mountain of his and wham! Suddenly there's a new religion on the block. But then, I must admit, that was actually my cock up." He sighed and finished his wine.
"Your cock up Sir?" Wilson asked, pushing both hands through his hair. John nodded; "Yeah, a couple of days after the big event, I dropped by and visited mum; she was still human then, of course. Loads of his [Jesus's] friends and bloody disciples saw me and that was that. He was still sulking on his bloody mountain. I would have given anything to see his face, when he heard about his new religion." John laughed at the thought of that.
"And he did try again; didn't he?" Jericho said, unsmiling. John nodded; "And look how that turned out; he changes his idea's for humanity, like some change their socks!" He finished his wine and rose up; "I think, I'll disguise myself as an old man and watch the show."
They watched in amazement as John was now; an old man, with a wooden staff. He walked to the door and scratched his flowing white beard; "Based this on that bloody good painting of my Grand Father. The artist was quite good and almost accurate, about how the old bugger looked." He disappeared. Everyone sat quietly and no one said anything. Garic flopped onto some cushions and said softly; "What the fuck just happened?"
6. SOME THOUGHTS.
James burnt the correspondence in the kitchen stove; bit by bit. He gave the little ornate casket to Garic - he could keep or sell it - it didn't matter. The letters no longer existed and would not, now, be found by the shepherd boy. Owen asked if they would join Prince John and watch the 'show' - even if they all knew the ending - nobody wanted too.
Alex said softly; "All that happens is he's [Jesus] human form is destroyed. He's still around of course. He can't be killed by humans or anything else in this world. His bloody family made and rules it."
Wilson was sprawled across several cushions, hands behind head and legs crossed. "So that's the cause of the trouble between the brothers; Jesus thinks John deliberately messed up his plan with their father, by appearing after the 'event' and letting everyone believe there had been a physical resurrection. Sweet fuck, what a cosmic cock-up!" No one could disagree with the big man.
Alex sat tapping her wine cup with a finger; she was deep in thought. "Why do they take human females as mates? Why didn't they just create their own females? I mean they made us." She gestured to herself and continued; "Or rather; where are their females?" Everyone sat around and Jericho rubbed his chin; "Alexandra, that is a bloody good question. All their females have been human or born to human mothers. Even our present BOSS has a human mother." [the Dowager Queen Isis was still very popular, in the world that the 'God's' inhabited.]
"If you can come up with an answer to that; you'll be the most clever human that ever lived." James muttered; Alex's question had perplexed him - greatly. Owen sucked his teeth and grinned; "That's because they weren't suppose to breed I expect. Who ever made them - and something or someone must have done - didn't give them females, so that they wouldn't breed another generation. Maybe they were suppose to be 'one off's' and they were clever enough to work around it. I always had a sneaking suspicion that human females were the first thing created, not males - the story of Adam and Eve have it the wrong way round. It's bloody obvious that females came first; if all the Gods were males."
There was real silence in the room and everyone stared at Owen. "You mean, they're simply a higher species that created an organic Artificial Intelligence for thier own pleasure and amusement and that's us?" James leaned back on his cushions and stared at the ceiling. Owen nodded; "Makes sense to me. Humans in the late 21st century created organic robots for heavy labour and some for sexual pleasure. What happens, if they [human's] created one that had an 'artificial' womb and could produce hybrid children? What if we're just their version of them? Except, we're a lot more sophisticated and better made. But given time and development; who knows?"
"What about souls?" Alex asked softly; she definitely didn't like where this conversation was going. Owen shrugged his shoulders; "Considering what they are capable of; a little piece of energy that retains a human's persoonia is not difficult for them. Not difficult by a long shot. Remember; freewill was a supposed 'divine gift' - no other creature possess it, apparently - so, if they can create that incredible thing, a soul is a piece of cake. More importantly; it exists in their version of 'time', which is a lot different to ours. We're organic; we are born, we live and then die. A straight line. That's how human's measure time. But for them its never ending, never changes; it's the same 'time' regardless. The theory of relativity means shit to them."
He sighed and finished his wine. "That's the real gift they gave us; [humans] the energy [the soul] that couldn't be destroyed and exists in their time." He added and smiled. He rose from his cushions, scratching his arse. "By taking human females, that they created, they gave themselves the other great gift." Wilson sat up; "And what is that?" He asked quietly. Owen smiled; "The ability to procreate. Something, I think, that was originally denied to them. Clever fuckers aren't they." He made for the stables to check on and feed Freddie.
Wilson grunted; "If brains of Britain has it right and the 'Gods' are masters of all creation; then what the fuck is the duck-billed platypus all about? What, did they get pissed up one Saturday night and say; 'Look, we've got all these bits left over, lets make a fucking duck-billed platypus. That will give those human bastards something to puzzle over!"
He had a room full of people deep in thought and laughing.
7. ROMANS.
Barabbas and his motley crew of 'freedom' fighters thought a night raid would be perfect; he had received information, that the so called Rabbi of Nazareth - and his main rival - was staying at Garic's house and so they turned up just after midnight; armed to the teeth. But they hadn't counted on the power of the humble fig. Jericho had eaten loads of the sweet little things and now was heading - yet again - to the outside toilet in quite a hurry. He sighed as he watched the small mob assembling outside the house.
He stopped time and emerged from the privy, much relieved. He woke everyone up and they went outside and stared at Barabbas and his men. Jericho scratched his chin and smiled; everyone loved his plan and set to work. They all sat watching from the small front window and Jericho used his mirror to restart time. Cups of wine were handed around and everyone settled down to watch. Strangely enough; no one really wanted any more figs or dates.
Barabbas suddenly realised he was waving a palm leaf - the symbol of his rival - as were most of his men; all their swords and daggers had gone, along with their clothes. Nine naked men ran screaming from the small street. They passed a couple of Roman soldiers guarding the crossroads. The Romans watched them dash past with not too much comment.
"Followers of that bloody crazy Rabbi I expect. He's in town you know." One said, scratching his leg, to the other who shrugged his shoulders; "If that's how they protest our occupation of their land - running naked around the streets at night - I don't think old Pontius has much to worry about." The other guard nodded his agreement; a little bored with it all. He wished the Legion had been posted to Germania; those fuckers were always ready for a fight and very rarely turned up naked. It was too bloody cold for a start. He sighed and wished his shift was over.
Owen peered out the window; "Isn't that Atticus and that murdering little fucker Caphus?" Everyone crowded around the small window and Jericho just sighed; "They must have had the same idea. Catch us asleep and steal Alex. She's worth a lot of money to them." Wilson chuckled; "There's about half a dozen of them. All armed to the teeth. What's the plan now?" He asked Jericho who rubbed his chin and grinned, muttering "What's good for the goose...."
The two Roman soldiers guarding the crossroads, were leaned against the wall of the local silversmith's and counting the minutes down to their relief. They heard the screaming and both straightened up; spears at the ready. They watched Atticus and his men rush past them stark naked and disappear into the night. They then watched Caphus staggering past, trailing behind the others. He had a palm leaf hanging out of somewhere quite personal - Alex had enjoyed her little bit of revenge - he nodded to the guards and vanished up the street; groaning.
The two guards sighed; "Why the fuck, couldn't the legion been posted to bloody Germania?" They went back to counting the minutes to their relief. Their Centurion just stared at the pair, as they made their report on the nights activities. His clerk scribbled down the testimony on his wax tablet with an open mouth. "Naked with palm feathers shoved up their arses; is that what your reporting?" He asked the two smiling guards - glad that their night shift was over - and scratched his chin. He really wished that the fucking legion had been posted to Germania...
The following morning, all was quiet in the street; most people had gone to the trial of the young Rabbi and Garic stood in his reception room staring at the pile of clothes and weapons by the window. He scratched his head and beard. The young maid gave him some wine, he turned to her and whispered: "What the fuck just happened?" She shrugged her shoulders and smiled; "No bloody idea
sir and I really don't care." She disappeared back to the kitchen; laughing.
The team decided - unanimously - not to bother watching the rest of the 'show'. They would be leaving today and Owen was a little unhappy; he would have to say goodbye to his favourite donkey - well, until another mission - and Ester, the young housemaid. When Wilson told Alex about Owen's affection for Ester, she just sighed; "He clearly has a thing about housemaids. We may have to have words about that." Wilson nodded; "Good job we don't live in Victorian times; the bloody place would be full of them. We'd never get the little git out on another mission."
They made their way through the quiet streets of the city and out through the great North Gate. A couple of Roman guards on duty watched the little group depart. "Sweet Mars, did you see the tart walking by the donkey? Waving a palm leaf over her face. Now, a piece of cake like that would make occupation of this shithole worth while." One muttered. The other shook his head; "Nay, she's probably a follower of that crazy Rabbi. She has his symbol; a palm leaf and we all know what they do with them to celebrate their faith."
The other guard grunted and reluctantly agreed; he wouldn't run about the city's streets naked, with a palm leaf stuck up his arse. But, then again, she was a real beauty, with tits like cooking pots and he had certainly done some daft things for women in his time. He gripped his javelin and counted the minutes to his relief.
Pontius Pilate sat in the grand reception room, hands over his face. The bloody Sanhedrin had dumped the case of the young rabbi into his lap. He also had that mad rebel Barabbas in custody. Found with weapons and plans to attack his [Pontius's] palace. Now this! He looked up at the Centurion and said quietly; "So the Rabbi's followers strip naked, shove palm leaves up their arse and run about the city at night; screaming. Do I have that right?" The Centurion nodded; he really wanted to laugh, but restrained himself.
"They carry no weapons and offer no violence to my soldiers or officials, is that right?" Pontius asked, wiping his face. The Centurion nodded again. His voice betrayed a little restrained laughter; "Do you think it could be some sort of filthy Judean trick my lord?" Then giggled outright. Pontius just stared at him. This Rabbi was clearly far more dangerous than people gave credit to - and he was about to release him and crucify the mad dog Barabbas - until he received the Centurions report.
Pontius rose from his chair and paced the room. If such tactics could make an old soldier like Maximus [the Centurion] laugh and treat the population like wayward children - by the God's! - the Roman occupation could descend into farce and shit giggles! How could you rule such a people? He groaned loudly; Rome knew how to deal with fighters and warriors, but this?
Pontius shook his head; the Rabbi had to die. The alternative was thousands of naked citizens running about the place with palm leaves stuck up their arse's and his troops laid about in utter hysterics; that caused the great man a day time nightmare. Caesar would have his balls - and his head - if such a religion spread like plague around the Roman Empire. He sighed and stared at the mob watching him from below; chanting for Barabbas. They were far more stupid than even Rome gave them credit for.
"Crucify the clever bastard." was all he said and picked up the palm leaf that Maximus had presented as evidence and stared at it. Then he realised where the fucking thing may have been. He ordered a bowl of water and washed his hands. The crowds cheered and the rest is history…..
8. MORE TRAVELS IN TIIME.
Atticus watched the little group heading towards the ruins of the village - now deserted and abandoned - with a small smile on his face. He had warned Pontius about these strangers. But the Governor - currently - had his hands full with the zealots and the crazy followers of the young Rabbi. He simply couldn't believe the stories of how they behave. It was a pity history hadn't recorded that little story. He turned to his friend Marcus - the Centurion -and said quietly; "Our Master has great taste in female flesh. She is an absolute Venus; and more." Marcus nodded; "That fool Cephus failed. The Master won't be pleased with him."
They saw the group meet the strangely dressed strangers and watched as everyone simply vanished. - including Freddie the donkey - and the ruins returned to their undisturbed state. The two men walked back to their horses; "Are you going to the crucifixions? They say it should be a good turnout because of the young Rabbi. He should attract a good crowd." Marcus asked, wiping his face and neck. Atticus grunted 'no'. He had plans to make and letters to write. The cursed Rabbi could meet his end without his company. He also had matters to settle with Garic. He didn't have the skirts of bloody Jericho Tibbs to hide behind now. But that would have to wait.
Atticus dismissed the servant, who had carried his dinner tray into his private office, dropped the metal bar across the door and sat behind the large ornate marble desk. He pulled the Mesopotamian figurine from his travelling cloaks concealed pocket and whispered the words. He kissed it and was gone.
Atticus dismissed the servant, who had carried his dinner tray into his private office, dropped the metal bar across the door and sat behind the large ornate marble desk. He pulled the Mesopotamian figurine from his travelling cloaks concealed pocket and whispered the words. He kissed it and was gone.
David Palmer hailed a passing handsome cab; "Whitehall." Was all he said and eased back in his seat. It was a ten minute run to the Headquarters of Military Intelligence. He stared out into the packed streets of Victorian London and almost smiled. Not half an hour ago, he was in Judea and if concerned, could have watched the supposed crucifixion of the Prophet Jesus Christ. His brother Antonius, who lived in Rome, had no idea about his younger brother's time travelling habits!
The cab pulled up outside the grand building on the corner of Trafalgar Square. It was part of Admiralty House and he paid the cab driver and straightened his jacket; it was really warm for an English Summer evening. But not as warm as bloody Judea. He walked up the steps and passed Captain Edgar Roberts - in civilian clothes - coming down the steps. The pair greeted each other. Roberts was on his way to Germany; he would be leaving by steamer that evening. The older man smiled and told David that young Eddy Charms had found a girl that matched the picture. He had, of course, not told the woman, that she would be working for British intelligence.
David Palmer smiled and shook Edgar's hand and made his way to his office. "If she is a close enough resemblance, then the game is on." He whispered to himself and dropped behind his desk. There were several letters awaiting his attention and a couple of hand written messages. The one from Captain Eddy Charms caught his eye. He read it carefully and smiled. David read the calendar and stepped out of his office; a passing janitor was called over. "What is todays date Patrick?" He asked the man, who chuckled; "Its Tuesday July 7th Mr. Palmer. Been out of touch again?" David nodded and thanked the man, then returned to his office.
He marked the date on his 1891 calendar and realised he had been away for four days. There was a knock at the door and he shouted; "Enter". It was Eddy Charms, he grinned; "Your back then. Paris must be good, you look like you've got a tan. I have one little peach that you should look at. If I didn't know better; she's the girl in the photograph." He saw the look on David's face and smiled;
"I know the others were bit of a let down, but this one will turn your head." He turned to go and David called after him; "Well. when can I see the damn woman?"
Eddy looked back and said; "Tonight. We'll have supper at the 'Clarence' [a hotel & pub in Whitehall] bring at least twenty pounds - for a deposit - she won't accept the role without a real deposit." He waved and walked away. David just sighed; the last couple of ladies looked nothing like the damn picture.
David made the pub and restaurant, just a little before seven and sat at his reserved table. He ordered a decent bottle of wine and told the waiter that Mr. Charms would be joining him; with his 'cousin'. The old waiter smiled and walked away; "That pair have more cousins than a bloody Arab has wives." He muttered. David was sipping some wine when Eddy joined him with the lady.
He rose from his seat and dropped his napkin back on the table. Eddy gestured to the immaculately dressed young woman. "David, this is Elizabeth Featherstone; the young and very talented actress, I was telling you about." David really did smile and held out his hand; "It is a real pleasure to meet you Miss Featherstone." Eddy had come through at last; she was a dead ringer for Lady Alexandra Cappanni.
EPILOGUE:
"This unusual mission could be judged as a success; the letters written by 'Atticus Veris' to his brother in Rome, where destroyed in 33AD and thus, they never surfaced later. The revelation as to who, John the recluse, actually was shocked the Team - except Jericho and James - and they now see the strange man in a very different light. The time travelling 'David Palmer' would become a problem for the Team; especially Jericho and Alexandra."
W.A.S.
CHARACTERS:
"This unusual mission could be judged as a success; the letters written by 'Atticus Veris' to his brother in Rome, where destroyed in 33AD and thus, they never surfaced later. The revelation as to who, John the recluse, actually was shocked the Team - except Jericho and James - and they now see the strange man in a very different light. The time travelling 'David Palmer' would become a problem for the Team; especially Jericho and Alexandra."
W.A.S.
Garic [the Goldsmith's son] had been a human agent of Jericho Tibbs - like his father before him - for many years. he was killed in 36AD during a Roman raid on a party he was attending. The Roman's were after one of the guests, who was a notorious zealot. His soul was collected and processed.
Ester [the maid] was given by her master - Garic's father - in marriage to a Baker called Simon. it was not a happy marriage and Ester had three live children during that marriage. She was widowed in 41AD and avoided re-marrying. She died in 52AD from fever. Her soul was collected and processed.
Caphus was a former human agent of Jericho Tibbs who had turned against him; with real hatred. The old man lived in tents after his Villa was burnt down. His so called friends offered no help. he died in 35AD alone in the desert. His soul was collected and processed.
Atticus Veris [David Palmer] was a human minion of the Dark Prince and a time traveller. 'David Palmer' was just one of his many identities, he had acquired over his travels through time. Since he was originally 'Atticus Veris' the temporal detectives didn't make too many enquires about the man. He remains a servant of the Dark Prince and his soul remains missing to this day.
Marcus Pullo [The Centurion] was a close friend of Atticus Veris and did his bidding for rewards of gold and slave girls - really young slave girls - he succumbed to 'night fever' during the winter of 37AD. His soul was collected and quarantined until 250AD.
Maximus Testor [the Centurion] was a loyal Roman soldier and officer for the Roman Governor of Judea, at the time. He had seen many campaigns and travelled most of Europe with his Legion. He became a Christian in 39AD and was killed by local zealots in 41AD, who didn't trust the 'New' Christians. His soul was collected and processed.
Barabbas [the zealot] continued to attack the Roman occupation of his land, but his creditability had actually been damaged by his release from Roman custody. His followers wanted a 'martyr' and he was soon killed in fighting between the factions of Jewish patriots. He died in strange circumstances in 34AD. His soul was collected and processed.
Pontius Pilate was dismissed as Governor of Judea and little is known about his death in 39AD - to historians - but he died by his own hand after a drinking session went wrong. His soul was collected and processed.
Prince John; as himself.
Prince Jesus; as himself.
Queen Mary; as herself.
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