#CRITICAL RACE THEORY EMPRESS OF CONSTANTINOPLE A Novel PART SEVEN

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#CRITICAL RACE THEORY PRESENTS

EMPRESS OF CONSTANTINOPLE A Novel

PART SEVEN

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EMPRESS OF CONSTANTINOPLE

A Novel ?By Eugene Stovall

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#HISTORICAL FICTION #WOMENS STUDIES #BLACK STUDIES #VATICAN #ARIANISM #GOTH #VANDAL #THEODORA #JUSTINIAN #HERESY #COPTIC CHRISTIANS #CHRISTIAN FICTION

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EPISODE FOURTEEN

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Prince Raüs no longer occupies the Royal Palace sitting atop Carthage’s Brysa Hill. Belisarius, Antonina and the general staff of the Byzantine army are the palace’s new residents. Yet the Byzantine occupation changes little in the lives of most Carthaginians. Belisarius’ strict prohibitions against looting and rape maintains the sense of security and normalcy that allows regular social? al and business life to continue. Belisarius posts Huns from his personal guard throughout Carthage to guarantee that no citizen need fear assault from an aggressive Byzantine soldier. Keeping a low profile, Belisarius Huns work with local civil authorities.to maintain order.

“Your Excellency,” the palace chamberlain announces as he ushers Prince Raüs into entering the spacious apartment where Belisarius is reviews reports on the remnants of Gelimer’s army.

“Ah, Prince Raüs,” Belisarius beams. “Welcome. Have a seat and I will attend you, presently.” Turning back to Archelaus, Belisarius continues discussing the process of rounding up the remnants of Gelimer’s Vandal army. “There are more of them out there and I want them found,” Belisarius instructs his prefect. “This war is not yet over.” “Yes, excellency.” Archelaus bows and turns to take his leave.. “What news of the Vandal treasury?” Belisarius asks. “Admiral Calonymus reports no progress,” Archelaus replies, turning back. What’s Calonymus up to? Belisarius mutters to himself. Then to Archelaus, he says, “Instruct my admiral to find the Vandal treasure ship, without delay, or I will send him back to Constantinople with the Vandal prisoners. Is that clear?” “Yes, Excellency,” Archelaus replies. “But you should know that Admiral Calonymus continues to encourage discontent among your men.” “Calonymus cannot be trusted,” Belisarius sighs, “and I suspect someone in Constantinople is behind his double dealing.” “Cappadocian John?” Archelaus asks. Belisarius nods. “Well sir, take precautions. The minister of finance has eyes and ears, everywhere.” “Learn as much as you can about the soldiers mood,” Belisarius says. “Find someone in Carthage spying for Gelimer ___ and impale him. That’ll be good for the men’s morale.”

Archelaus leaves and Belisarius, then, turns to Raüs. “I have not had the opportunity to thank you for your hospitality, my friend.” the general says. “My wife and I have been quite comfortable here in your home.” “Saffyya and I are pleased to have you and the Countess as our guests,” Raüs replies. “We hope you are comfortable.” “Yes,” Belisarius sighs. “We will miss all this luxury when we return to Constantinople. Now how can I be of assistance?” “I have come on behalf of my brother,” Raüs begins. “Your, brother?” “My brother is the Bishop of Carthage who you ordered to vacate the Basilica of St Cyprian.” “Yes,” Belisarius acknowledges. “My advisers thought it best to remove any opportunity for Gelimer to rally his followers. We do not intend to detain your brother, but we must take precautions. You understand.” “I suppose so,” Raüs agrees. “But will you allow him to conduct the funeral services for King Hilderic, and the other members of our family?” “Of course,” Belisarius replies. “The emperor had the best of intentions of restoring your father to his throne. I know that he deeply regrets your loss.” The general gives Prince Raüs a sympathetic look. “Now, if there nothing else ...” The general turns to concentrate on the clutter of scrolls and maps on his table. “Yes, Excellency,” Raüs responds. “As you have said yourself, this thing is not over.” “And...?” “Your admiral, Calonymus, has been raiding merchant ships carrying goods from Carthage to Rome.” Belisarius looks up from his table to give the Vandal a curious look. “In addition,” Raüs continues, “your admiral’s marines are looting harbor warehouses.” “What!” Belisarius bellows. “Why have I not been informed of these outrages?” Raüs knows that the Byzantine commander in chief ?is well aware of what Calonymus is doing, but the Vandal also knows Belisarius walks a tightrope. Never before has a general denied his victorious army its spoils of war. The Huns and Goths that fought for the emperor expect to be paid. But in order to avoid civil unrest, Belisarius cannot just allow his men to take what they will. So, Belisarius allows Calonymus to discreetly raid on cargo ships heading for Rome and Archelaus distributes the booty to his officers and among his men. On the other hand, Belisarius is not aware that Calonymus is also looting warehouses. “Get Archelaus in here,” Belisarius bellows to his chamberlain. “Believe me, I will get to the bottom of this,” Belisarius assures the Vandal prince as he escorts him from the conference room.? And this is not the only tightrope, Belisarius must walk.

Antonina is bored with Carthage. She longs for the social life at the Imperial Court. In Constantinople, though Belisarius is unable to satisfy his wife’s extravagant tastes or sexual appetites ___ nor does he try ____ the court has more than enough to occupy Antonina’s appetites. For Belisarius, it is enough that his wife cements his relationship with Justinian through Theodora. Belisarius knows that Antonina accompanied him to North Africa as Theodora’s spy. It was no mean feat, he reminds himself, that Antonina performed, ensuring that the fleet landed the Byzantine troops in North Africa, at all. Nevertheless, Antonina has caused nothing but ?problems since she has taken up residence in Carthage’s royal palace.

Belisarius’ stepson, Theodosius, accompanied his father on the North African campaign. Though Antonina paid scant attention to Theodosius when they were in Constantinople, during the voyage with no one else to occupy her time, Antonina takes an interest in the young Thracian lad. And while the Byzantine army recuperates from its setback in Sicily a relationship develops between Belisarius’ wife and his stepson. ?Now, in the confines of Carthage’s royal palace, their scandalous affair becomes common knowledge among the household servants as well as Belisarius’ staff. As Antonina begins to have sex with Theodosius, not only in secret, but even in the presence of household servants, all Carthage gossips about her brazen behavior treating the royal palace as if it were a brothel on Constantinople’s Street of Pleasures. All the while, Belisarius maintains a blissful ignorance. However, while inspecting the palace’s lower chambers with his chamberlain, Belisarius catches Antonina and Theodosius indulging in their sexual activities in a wine cellar. Nonetheless Belisarius, deciding to ignore the behavior of Empress Theodora’s closest confidant, continues to ignore his wife’s behavior ___ at least for the time being.

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Gelimer hides from the Byzantine patrols sent to find the remnants of his army. The five thousand? troops taken by Tzazo to punish the governor of Sardinia have returned to join Gelimer and the others near the Berber village of Bulla Regia.

“Brother, we should retrieve our treasure and escape to Iberia,” Tzazo urges noting the changes that a lack of food and rest have produced in his brother’s physical appearance. Forced to constantly change his hiding spots to avoid the Byzantine patrols, the would-be king of the Vandals slumps on a crude dais set in the middle of a tent that serves as his court and living chambers. Gelimer busies himself with reports on his army now scattered about over the rocky terrain. Yet, even though his face is haggard and unshaven, Gelimer’s eyes blaze in defiance and his spirit remains undefeated. “Genseric brought us here to make this land our home, not to run back to Iberia,” he reminds his brother. “Brother, we have lost our home,” Tzazo states, matter of factly, “but we can still save our lives.” “Our lives!” Gelimer says. “Look about you! Our men are yet willing to fight and die, if need be.” Gelimer waves out at the thousands of Vandals encamped around his tent. “This war is not over, yet! Those men out there ___ my men ___ will fight for their families, their homes and their land.” “What is your plan?” Tzazo asks. “My plan is simple. I intend to drive the Byzantines out of Carthage and back to Constantinople.” Yes brother, I agree, Tzazo murmurs to himself, your plan is simple. It is too simple! But Tzazo still admires Gelimer, as do the Vandals who yet avoid the Byzantine patrols making their way to Gelimer’s camp to join his other fighters. “I’ve sent people to Carthage to mingle with Belisarius’ Goths and Huns,” Gelimer confides to Tzazo. “What have your learned, brother?” “The Byzantines grumble about not getting their share of the loot after Ad Decimum,” Gelimer explains. “They say that Belisarius lives in the royal palace, while forbidding them their soldiers’ due.” “So what?” Tzazo asks. “How does that help us?” “This Belisarius executed his soldiers for taking fruit and vegetables from Berber farmers,” Gelimer continues, “but permits his officers divide the spoils they pillage from warehouses and plunder from cargo ships.” “You believe that you can exploit this weakness in the Byzantine army?” Tzazo asks. “There is so little respect for the Byzantine commander,” Gelimer says, “that even his own wife is bedding his adopted son in front of his entire household.” Gelimer, his eyes radiating with anticipation, suddenly bolts upright on his dais. “These Byzantines are immoral and degenerate swine,” Gelimer asserts. “We, the people of Christ’s body and blood can defeat them, yet.” “Though what you say is interesting, brother,” Tzazo acknowledges, “how does the sexual affairs of a Byzantine whore help us defeat the Byzantine army?” “Even now my spies are distributing gold coins to their soldiers,” Gelimer says. “And promising gold to any of them who joins our ranks.”. “If that’s your plan, brother,” Tzazo remarks “you must know dead men don’t need gold coins.” “What do you mean?” “As soon as the Byzantine officers learn their men are accepting our gold, they will execute them.” “Listen to my plan before you judge.” “Please continue.” “When the Byzantine army becomes discontented and their fighting spirit deserts them, I will cause Carthage to rise up and throw the Byzantines out of Africa.” “Just how do you intend to accomplish this wonder?” Tzazo asks. “I am going to deprive Carthage of water,” Gelimer chuckles. Tzazo shakes his head, but resists making any comment. ?“When women and children are suffering and dying of thirst,” Gelimer smiles. “Carthage will cast out the invaders like our Savior casts out devils.” “How are you going to deprive Carthage of water, brother?” “During his reign, after Carthage suffered five years of drought, Emperor Hadrian built an aqueduct that transported water from five underground springs located in the Zaghouan Mountains, here,” Gelimer says pointing to a location on one of the maps on a nearby table. eighty-three miles away, via an aqueduct to Carthage. ? “I have been studying these maps,” Gelimer says. “The aqueduct transports water underground, except for overhead arcades that cross the plains of Oudna, La Soukra and Miliane. ?where water is transported over marble canals.” “So you plan to ...,” “I intend to cut off Cartage’s water supply here on the plain of Miliane,” Gelimer explains. “When the Carthage is thirsty enough, our people will encourage malcontents to rise up and help us throw Belisarius and his army out of North Africa.”

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EPISODE FIFTHTEEN

“Excellency,” Archelaus enters Belisarius’ office, unannounced. “What is it?” “The rumors about some of our soldiers spending gold coins is true.” “Where are the coins coming from?” “No one knows, Excellency. But they’re being spent in the taverns and brothels in the harbor area.” “And?” “Since these coins began circulating, morale among the troops has worsened.” “What has been done about it?” “We’ve impaled a few Carthaginians for conspiring with Gelimer’s spies.” “And ...?” “It hasn’t made any difference. The men believe your officers are hoarding treasure that belongs to them.” Archelaus look of concern tells Belisarius the problem is serious. “If we don’t get on top of this situation, and soon, matters might soon get out of control.” Belisarius paces about. “The Vandal army is out there somewhere,” he says. “This will all end when we find it and Gelimer is either in chains or dead! Where is he?” Archelaus shrugs. “We know that a large number of Vandals arrived from Sardinia, but we still do not know where they’re hiding. This land is filled with mountains, valleys and caves where the entire population of Carthage could hide undetected. We could search years for Gelimer’s army and still never find them.” “They’re not hiding!” Belisarius shouts. “They’re here in Carthage ___ giving our men gold coins and undermining their morale. I don’t care what it takes. Find them!”

Of all of Belisarius’ many aides, Archelaus is the most dependable. But Archelaus is overwhelmed with work. Archelaus’ staff, headed by Constantinius, is overwhelmed with work. Belisarius’ secretary, Procopius, who works all day and throughout the night sending orders and ?messages, is overworked. Belisarius’ entire general staff is overworked. He knows how hard Archelaus and his entire staff have been working. Maybe I should apologize, he thinks, but decides against it. Belisarius must continue to drive them. He cannot return to Constantinople until his invasion of North Africa is a success. Justinian is depending on him. “What progress has Calonymus made locating the Vandal’s treasury?” “Your admiral doesn’t believe the Vandal treasury is on a ship, at all. He claims the treasury has been hidden away, or ...” “Or what?” “Or may not even exist.” “It exists, alright,” Belisarius says. “Possibly,” Archelaus observes, “Possibly Calonymus is distributing gold to the troops in order to undercut your authority.” “Do you believe he would do such a thing?” Belisarius wonders aloud. “That would be treason.” “You know Calonymus serves Cappadocian John ...,” Archelaus shrugs. “... and one cannot put anything past Justinian’s minister of finance,” Belisarius agrees. “And there is another matter that needs your attention.” “What is it?” “There are reports that Carthage’s cisterns are drying up.” “What do you mean drying up?” ?“The aqueduct is not refilling the cisterns. Carthage is running out of water.”

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“Thank you for coming so quickly.” Belisarius welcomes Raüs. “Archelaus tells me that the cisterns are running dry,” Raüs says without preliminaries. “Is that so?” “The aqueduct is not supplying any water What can be done?” Raüs stares at Belisarius while contemplating the situation. “They must have diverted water from a section of the aqueduct.” “Do you think that you can find the diversion?” “Possibly,” Raüs says thoughtfully, “especially if it is at \ one of the overhead locations. But it will take time.” “Time is something we don’t have,” Belisarius says. “Take a company of Huns and find the break in the water supply.” “If Gelimer is responsible for disrupting the aqueduct,” Archelaus observes, “he certainly will have soldiers waiting to ambush anyone that you send to repair it.” “We should have found the remnants of his army by now!” Belisarius snaps, “then there would be no ambush.” Nor a break in the aqueduct, either, Raüs thinks to himself. “Let me see what I can learn,” Raüs volunteers. “It will be easier for me to find Gelimer and the break in the aqueduct on my own.” “Then take my son, Theodosius, with you,” Belisarius suggests. “He is old enough to accept a man’s responsibilities.” And I can get him out of the palace, the general sighs to himself. ?

Antonina has come between father and stepson like putrefied matter, stinking up the palace and contaminating Belisarius’ household and general staff. But neither does she nor her husband speak of the matter. Nor does Belisarius speak to his son. All eat at separate times and in separate rooms. However, Belisarius gets one benefit from the sorry affair. Since arriving in Carthage, Antonina absents herself from Belisarius’ councils for which the general is more than grateful. Possibly I should have taken more interest in Theodosius, Belisarius thinks to himself as his wife’s infidelity begins to damage his relationships and undermine his authority. But how could I? Now it is too late.

Raüs’ mission to find the disruption in Carthage’s water supply begins in Hippo where he seeks the Messenger’s assistance. Well aware of the gossip about Belisarius’ stepson and Antonina, Raüs decides to use the journey to test Theodosius’ mettle.? “This mission might be perilous,” Raüs tells the teenager. “Are you prepared?” “I wish to do what I can to please my father,” Theodosius responds. Raüs and Theodosius ride camels. Gwafa trails behind leading two pack mules bearing supplies. “From what I hear,” Raüs snickers, “you were more interested in pleasing your stepmother than your stepfather.” ? “I loved my father,” the young man blushes, “but he never seemed to have any time for me.” “So you turned to your stepmother?” “I thought if I was kind to her, I would please him,” Theodosius explains. “I understand what that’s like,” Raüs confides, remembering how he tried everything to win his father’s affection. “My father told me that before he could accept me as his son, I had to become a man.” “What did he mean by that?” “He thought I was weak because I refused to drink human blood and flesh.” “I, too, dislike drinking blood.” “When my father took me to the gladiatorial games, the sight of the? blood and gore made me physically ill. My father was so embarrassed by my squeamishness in front of his Vandal chieftains that he banished me from his court.” “We are much alike,” Theodosius confesses. “I, too, am revolted by the sight of blood.”. “But your sexual escapades,” Raüs asks. “Why did you do it?” “I did not realize what was happening until it was too late,” Theodosius protests. “Too late?” “When she threatened to tell my father if I did not do as she asked,” Theodosius says, “it seemed that I was in a trap. And then I began to fear her.” “You feared her?” “Yes,” the young man confesses. “Have you not heard of what happens to those who displease the Lady Antonina?” “Tell me.” “My stepmother’s chamber servant, Macedonia, witness our lovemaking on several occasions,” Theodosius chronicles. “Macedonia and I were friends. She knew that I was being forced into the relationship with my stepmother against my will.” “Were you and Macedonia having an affair?” “On my word and my love for the Savior, Jesus Christ, we were only friends,” Theodosius avows. “She wanted me to help her leave Antonina’s service. She was afraid of that monster, Eugenius.” “So what happened?” “Macedonia approached my stepfather and told him everything. She even named two other servants who were witnesses and were willing to verify Macedonia’s story.” “What did your father do?” “My father is not a bad person,” Theodosius says. “Your father has much on his mind,” Raüs concurs. “My father’s advisors also believed that Antonina was to blame for disgracing their commander.” Theodosius tries to absolve Belisarius of any responsibility for Antonina’s behavior. “My father’s aide, Constantinius, even remarked that, if anyone should be punished for disgracing his commander in chief, it should be Antonina.” "This is why your father sent you with me on this mission?” “Yes, but not before my father told Antonina that Macedonia told him about our affair.” “What did your stepmother do?” “My stepmother insisted that Macedonia’s story was a lie,” Theodosius relates. “But she could not deny her conduct in the face of witnesses so she? demanded that my father hand Macedonia and the other witnesses to Eugenius.” “Did he?” “My father believed what he wanted to believe. He turned Macedonia and the others over to his wife.” “And?” “My stepmother made me watch as Eugenius first cut out their tongues. Then had each of them cut up, limb by limb, piece by piece. When they finished, they put the pieces into sacks, and threw them into the Mediterranean.” “I don’t blame you for being afraid,” Raüs shudders. “I’ll try to assist you as much as I can.”

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When they arrive in Hippo Regius, Raüs heads for the Jewish? compound surrounding a massive Synagogue where the Messenger of Hippo ?resides. “This is Theodosius,” Raüs says, introducing the Messenger to Belisarius’ stepson. “Do you know where Gelimer’s army is hiding?” Raüs asks, dispensing with further preliminaries. “No, my Prince,” the Messenger replies, though the twinkle in the old Jew’s eye tells Raüs that he knows something. “Are you aware that the aqueduct no longer supplies water to the cisterns in Carthage?” “Of course. The aqueduct provides Hippo as well as Carthage with water .” “We are going to find the break in the aqueduct. Can you help us?”? “Surely you know that Gelimer is responsible. He is certain to execute anyone attempting to repair the break.” “Nevertheless we must find the break,” Raüs insists. “In that case,” the Messenger smiles, “I have a Roman scroll mapping the aqueduct from the mountains, across the plains to the capital. Will that help?” “Yes!” “Then I will send my brother’s youngest son to accompany you. He is a skilled map reader.”

Following the map outside of Hippo, the Messenger’s nephew and his two Berber assistants take no time in locating a section of the aqueduct’s underground channel. It’s dry. “No water has run through this channel for several days,” the Berbers confirm. “We should be able to find the break from here.” “Good!” Raüs says, For days Raüs’ party follow the underground section of the aqueduct, ?no longer carrying water, towards its mountain source when they discover where the water has been diverted from where the underground section joins to aqueduct’s overhead water channel at the Plain of Miliane.

“Now we must let Gelimer know that we have discovered the break in the aqueduct,” Raüs smiles to Theodosius. “How will we do that?” “It shouldn’t be difficult,” Raüs replies. “Unless I am mistaken, Gelimer’s spies are watching us right now, isn’t that right, Gwafa?” “Vandals have been following us since we left Hippo.” Gwafa replies. “Their army isn’t far away. Last night the map reader’s servants led me right to their camp.” On his way back to Carthage with location of Gelimer’s army, Raüs stops at Hippo Regius’ Synagogue and the Messenger’s residence. “Please conduct young Theodosius, here, to Brother Joseph’s abbey,” Raüs requests the Jewish rabbi. “I fear Belisarius’ stepson is no longer safe in Carthage.” “Ah,” the Messenger exclaims, “Don’t worry, I will see to his safety.” Back at Carthage’s royal palace, Raüs reports to Belisarius. “Excellency, we found where the water is being diverted from the aqueduct.” “Where is it?” “On the Plain of Miliane. Gelimer assembles his Vandals in a nearby valley near Tricamarum.” “Dispatch the cavalry to Tricamarum,” Belisarius orders Archelaus. “The cavalry is not to allow Gelimer to escape.” “Yessir!” “Then, assemble the army.” Belisarius meets Gelimer and Tzazo on Miliane’s broad plain? for a final showdown. Gelimer’s infantry, organized ?into defensive fighting formations, occupy the high ground. Belisarius orders cavalry charges to weaken the Vandal formations and sap its fighting strength. Three times the Byzantine cavalry charges the Vandal positions ___ weakening the Vandals with each charge and dislodging Gelimer infantry. In the final charge, Tzazo, fighting valiantly, loses his life. Finally, when the Vandals are incapable of resisting another attack, Belisarius hurls his infantry at Gelimer’s disheartened and disorganized defenders. As the Vandal lines give way and individual soldiers flee in droves, , Gelimer’s army completely disintegrates.

After his defeat at Tricamarum, Gelimer tries to flee to his allies in Spain. However, the Byzantines intercept Gelimer’s fleet, including the ships carrying the Vandal kingdom’s treasury. Taking refuge in the mountains with Berber tribesmen, the usurper along with his remaining followers are captured, months later. Triumphantly, Belisarius brings the dazed and half-crazed Vandal king back to Constantinople to face Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora.

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EPISODE SIXTEEN

All Constantly turns out to give Belisarius a tumultuous welcome as his flagship sails up the Bosphorus, around the Golden Horn and into the imperial harbor.. From the steps of the imperial palace, Theodora races out to embrace Antonina. An elated Justinian hails Belisarius as ‘Our faithful benefactor’ and, taking him by the hand, turns him to receive the salute of the wildly cheering crowd.

“You must give Belisarius a triumphal celebration,” Theodora urges Justinian. “In the Roman Empire, only emperors receive triumphs,” Justinian chides his wife.? “Nonetheless, Belisarius should receive a triumph,” Theodora insists. “By honoring Belisarius, you honor yourself.” Justinian is not jealous by nature. He understands vanity makes fools of all. Yet, giving Belisarius a triumph seems inappropriate. If anyone should have a triumph, it should be the emperor. If the adventure had ended badly, Justinian, not Belisarius, would have been universally condemned. But, acquiescing to Theodora’s wishes, Justinian orders an unprecedented triumphal celebration for Belisarius and his victorious army.

It’s a bright sunny day, warm but not uncomfortably so, when Belisarius, accompanied by his staff and followed by his officers and their legions, marches down the two mile length of the Mese, Constantinople’s majestic boulevard, from the Golden Gate, at the harbor entrance, near the Wall of Theodosius, with all of Constantinople spread out in welcome. Through the triumphal arch where Constantine the Great once marched, red-robed bishops, black-robed priests, deacons and acolytes solemnly singing the Te Deum and swinging censors of burning incense lead Belisarius in a triumphal procession along the Mese, lined with exuberant throngs of well-wishers.

Flowers, colored silk banners, and victory wreaths decorate buildings bearing huge posters that congratulate Belisarius and his victorious legion along the parade route. Passing through each of Constantinople’s great squares, the Square of Arcadius, the Ox Market, the Amastrian Square, the Square of Brotherly Love, and the Bull Square, Belisarius’ triumphal procession pauses at each to accept commendations and gifts from delegations from Constantinople’s nobles and citizens. At the Bull Square, University professors and students turn out to cheer the ?Byzantine army as it passes through.

Passing by the Hippodrome, the Hagia Sophia, and the Grand Palace, the triumphal procession enters the Forum of Constantine. Amid the fanfare of trumpets and the roll of drums, Constantinople’s militia assembles in a parade formation in front of a great reviewing stand where, prefects, ward masters, dancing masters and other dignitaries offer gifts and honors to Belisarius and his officers. After he receives honors and the capital’s heartfelt gratitude, Belisarius takes his place upon the dais to review his army as it passes in review. First comes his general staff, then his cavalry and infantry. Calonymus then leads a contingent of sailors and marines. After reviewing his army and navy, Belisarius personal guard of Huns lead Gelimer and captive Vandals in chains, through the Forum and onto prisoner camps outside the capital city. Following the prisoners, wagons heaped with North African spoils and treasures, including gold and silver from the Vandal treasury ___ though not all of it ___ elicit oh’s and ah’s from the multitude as oxen pull them to the imperial treasury.

Among the loudly cheering dignitaries in the Forum of Constantine, stands Cappadocian John, glaring at the wagons piled high with loot, his face contorted into a vicious grimace by jealousy mixed with resentment. ?Some of that should have been mine, he murmurs to himself.

“Excellency!” a quiet voice barely audible over the cheering crowd whispers in Cappadocian John’s ear. “The Grand Master requests your presence.” John is startled. A tingle of fear, beginning in the pit of John’s stomach, surges upward to grasp his heart and constrict his breathing. Turning slowly, John gazes into the empty eyes of a brown-robed monk, his face shadowed by the brown cowl that covers his head. “Please come to the monastery of St. Mamas at Vespers this next day.” “Tell the grand master that I am his obedient servant and will attend him at the appointed time,” Cappadocian John replies.

Meanwhile, high above the Mese, Justinian stands at the southernmost portico of the Grand Palace to watch Belisarius’s triumph in the Forum of Constantine below. “As always, my dear,” Justinian murmurs to Theodora, kissing her lightly on the cheek, “you were correct.” “Correct about what, dear husband?” Theodora smiles. She knows what Justinian means, but wants him to say it. “The triumph for Belisarius was a good idea,” Justinian admits. “The people are enjoying themselves, immensely.” “Well my dear you have taken away your people’s beloved chariot races, haven’t you?” Theodora asks. “And then your despicable minister of finance raised taxes, confiscated property and threw people into prison.” Theodora gives her husband a knowing. “It was time for you to give them something to celebrate.” “However, my dear,” Justinian reminds his wife as much as himself, “this temporary expression of patriotism is a flimsy foundation for reconstituting my new Roman empire.” Justinian stares at the Forum. “They love me today, but will they love me tomorrow?” “Which is why tomorrow is just another day with its own issues and challenges, my dear,” Theodora reflects.

But as Justinian watches his barbarian army, still disgruntled over their loss wealth, he realizes his rule remains precarious and his plans for a united empire are far from being realized, no matter the enthusiasm of the crowds. Those barbarians, down there, Justinian tells himself, are all that stands between me and an unhappy populace and a sullen nobility. And Justinian is pleased with Belisarius, more for the two thousand Vandals who, like his Huns and Goths, drink blood and eat flesh, than for treasures he brings. Those Vandals will make excellent recruits for my Arian army.

“I agree that the outpouring of the people’s newfound allegiance will fade in the face of your higher taxes and stricter laws,” Theodora says, coming over to her husband and interrupting his thought. “The people need another diversion to replace their beloved chariot races.” “What do you suggest, my dear?” “I suggest what I have been suggesting all along,” Theodora says. “Get rid of that despicable, evil man!” “How will that help maintain the people’s loyalty?” “He collects your taxes while taking a share for himself. He oversees the Supreme Court using his legion of flatterers, spies and criminals to condemn the innocent as well as the guilty to the dungeons where they are tortured and murdered. John causes the people to hate you. Get rid of him.”? “Well dear lady,” Justinian whispers to his wife, “my tenuous reign relies on Cappadocian John, just as it depends on my barbarian army. In hoc signo vinces.”

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EPISODE SEVENTEEN Cappadocian John has always been a greedy man. His greed drove him to become one of the most powerful men in the Pythian Brotherhood. Like a cancer, greed corrupted John’s soul. John’s ambitions shrunk from no deed too vile, nor betrayal too foul. And even while Belisarius campaigned in North Africa, John’s greed for more even more wealth and power prompted him to use Calonymus to undermine the Byzantine war effort, However, the anxiously awaited news that Gelimer had defeated Belisarius never came. Now he knows the consequences of his failure awaits.

At the appointed time of his summons, Cappadocian John enters the monastery of St. Mamas, dressed in a monk’s brown robe with a cowl covering his head and obscuring his face. Located in the southwest of Constantinople, near the Xylokerkos Gate, the monastery was named for a martyr from Cappadocia. Indistinguishable from the other monks passing in and out of the monastery, John’s knees weaken at the thought of facing the wrath of the Pythian Brotherhood’s grand master and becoming another Cappadocian ‘martyr’.

? “Welcome Brother John.” In a chamber, deep in the inner sanctum of St. Mamas’ monastery, a monk at the head of a long table points Cappadocian John to a seat at the foot of the table.

“We thought possibly you may have forgotten your meeting with us,” the grand master says, indicating brotherhood members sitting on either side, “considering your familiarity with our practices.”

Even had the grand master not pulled his cowl back to reveal his face, Cappadocian John recognized the unmistakable arrogance in the voice of Marcellinus Comes, the emperor’s high chancellor.?

“I am ever prepared to answer whenever my Worshipful Grand Master’s summons and always obedient to the brotherhood’s will.” John replies, bowing before taking his seat. He nervously glances at the brotherhood members lined at either side of the grand master as they also pull back their cowls to reveal their faces.

“Why do I doubt your sincerity?” Marcellinus Comes sneers. Like all who hold the power of life and death over others, the grand master enjoys toying with his prey. Having participated in so many executions, himself, John pales at the idea of being tortured prior to being executed ___ trembling at the thought of his flesh being seared by hot tongs and limbs being hacked away before suffering the ghastly death of impalement. “The grand master must know how faithfully I have served the brotherhood?” “Have you served faithfully,” the grand master scowls, “Let’s see. You were given the task of keeping that Egyptian whore out of the palace but you failed!” Marcellinus peers at John before continuing. “Then you were told to prevent Justinian from launching an attack against the Vandal Kingdom again you failed! You were ordered to prevent Belisarius from overthrowing Gelimer. Yesterday Justinian celebrates his victory in North Africa with a triumph.” “If your Worshipful Master will allow me to explain ...,” John begins. “After all the brotherhood has given, you repay us with one failure after another.” “How would you have me atone for my failure, Worshipful Master?” Cappadocian John pleads. “You mean your numerous failures?” the grand master asks. “My numerous failures.” Cappadocian John corrects himself.

“You have been given the power that few have ever had. We expected you to use your authority to advance our ideals and further our goals. Instead you betray us and serve yourself. And you know the penalty for betrayal.” “Please worshipful Grand Master, I still hold Justinian’s confidence. Is that not of value? ” “Are you asking for another opportunity to fulfill your obligations to your brothers and keep your vows?” “I am, Worshipful Master.”

“We have a very simple task for you,” Marcellinus Comes says giving John a severe look. “Need I remind you what the consequences will be of another failure?”

“No Most Worshipful Grand Master,” Cappadocian John whimpers. “We wish Theodahad to become king of the Goths, in Italy. Athalaric and his mother, Amalasuntha, have become a nuisance. As you have already discovered, Queen Amalasuntha is allied with Theodora. You task is to eliminate Amalasuntha and her son. Neither Justinian nor Theodora should be allowed to interfere with Theodahad becoming crowned king.” Marcellinus Comes stares at Cappadocian John. “Is that clear?” “Yes Worshipful Master.” “Good!” the grand master exclaims. “Be on your way. Do not fail, again!”

With a sigh of relief of someone who has been reprieved from a death sentence, Cappadocian John scampers from the dank chamber of the monastery of St. Mamas.? After Cappadocian John departs, the grand master claps his hands and two blindfolded Vandals are brought into the assembly room.? “Welcome brothers,” Grand Master Comes says as the Vandals’ blindfolds are removed. “My brothers, our guests are Prince Raüs and his brother the former Arian bishop of Carthage, Prince Raptus.” The assembled brothers murmur their welcome. “Our brothers will assist us establish Arianism as the only orthodox Christian belief throughout the empire.”

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After departing St. Mamas monastery to make their way back to their quarters in one of the emperor’s smaller palaces, the Vandal princes compare notes.

“Well, brother,” Raptus says, “you certainly kept your word.” “What was that?” Raüs asks “You got me out of Carthage.” “I am glad you appreciate my efforts,” Raüs laughs. “... and into some clandestine brotherhood working against both the emperor and the empress,” Raptus muses. “Well, since you were the Arian Bishop of Carthage,” Raüs laughs, “they trust you.” “For what?” “To assist in eliminating the Egyptian and African clergy and anyone else loyal to the Pope of Alexandria.” “Aren’t they going to incur the emperor’s wrath?” “Justinian wants to rid the Church of Egyptians and Africans as much as the brotherhood.” “Justinian is behind the persecutions of the Egyptian and African church?”_ “Justinian’s army is almost composed of Arian Christians who hate the blackos.” “As soon as he seized the throne, Emperor Justin, Justinian’s uncle, began purging persecutes all clergy loyal to the Pope of Alexandria in order to appease the bishops of Rome, Antioch and Damascus and all the other Christian leaders who served the Roman Empire long before Constantine. These bishops offered Justin their loyalty and, in return, he worked to undermine the authority of the Egyptian Pope of Alexandria.” “How did Justin do this?” “He began his persecutions by branding the monks in Edessa as 'Orientals’ and expelling them from their monastery in the dead of winter. And when he became emperor, Justinian continued his uncle’s persecution.” “So what happened.” “Empress Theodora is what happened,” Raüs explains. “She prevented the total annihilation of the Egyptian and North African Christian Church.” “Are you saying that Empress Theodora is supporting the Egyptians against Emperor Justinian’s wishes?” “Yes,” Raüs affirms. “The empress supports Africans, Orientals and all those that Justinian wants to purge from the orthodox Christian church. Theodora even brought the Egyptian bishop of Amida, his clergy and other Egyptian clergy exiled by Emperor Justin to Constantinople and housed them in the Palace of Hormisdas.” “And this means...?” “... the brotherhood believes that, because you were the Arian bishop of Carthage, you will assist them with their plans,” Raüs says. “Their plans?” ? “... to seize control of the Roman Catholic Church and move the pope from Alexandria to Constantinople.” “I have no problems with that,” Raptus laughs. . “But their plans have not turned out as well as they would have liked,” Raüs observes “I guess not with the Empress of Constantinople obstructing them at every turn.” Raptus laughs. “Worse than that,” Raüs explains. “Justinian’s persecutions \ have prompted violent revolts all over Egypt and North African and even in Palestine and into Syria.” “Doesn’t Justinian have enough soldiers to put down a revolt by these blackos?” “Apparently not,” Raüs muses. “He has suspended his crusade against the Africans and agreed to hold a synod between the African and European bishops to reconcile their differences.” “All this is well and good,” Raptus yawns, “but I still don’t understand what all this has to do with us?” “Two things,” Raüs says. “First Justinian and Theodora are our patrons ...” “Your patrons,” Raptus interrupts. “I don’t even know them.” “Second,” Raüs continues, “unlike the Vandal Kingdom the Byzantine Empire is not going anywhere?”?? “Good point,” Raptus concedes. “But I have a question for you.” “What is it?” “What are your friends in the Pythian Brotherhood going to do when they discover that you are married to Saffyya?”

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An imperial herald bursts into Justinian and Theodora’s private chambers. “Pardon, the interruption your majesties, but the Patriarch of Constantinople desires an audience.” “Have the Chief Minister put him on the emperor’s schedule,” Theodora snaps. “He says that it is a matter of some urgency, Your Highness,” “What urgency?” Justinian asks irritated at the intrusion. “It concerns the death of Pope Timothy III of Alexandria and the appointment of the next pope.” “Very well,” Justinian sighs. “Tell the patriarch that we will meet with him in the small audience chamber.” The herald departs and Justinian turns to Theodora. “Possibly you will join me in this audience. You have an interest in these matters.”? “I am your faithful servant,” Theodora responds.

Justinian greets the delegation of bishops and church clergy led by the Patriarch of Constantinople,? a tall stately Greek, with blazing blue eyes and a flowing white beard. Justinian relies upon the patriarch, the acknowledged leader of orthodox Christians, everywhere outside Egypt and North Africa, for support and advice.

? ? “Your majesty,” the patriarch pronounces, “the death of Pope of Alexandria, Timothy III, is an opportunity to remove control of the Christian Church from the African blackos.” “What is it that you wish me to do?” Before responding the patriarch gives Theodora a sideline look and the other clergy stir uncomfortably in their seats. “We do not want another blacko appointed Pope of Alexandria and head of our orthodox Christian Church.” Now it is Justinian’s turn to cast a sideways look at Theodora. “What is that you want of me?” “Your loyal subjects and othodox Christians, everywhere, want you to prevent these so-called coptics ordering your faithful subjects and orthodox Christians to submit to their primitive practices.” The patriarch’s entourage enthusiastically support his comments. Justinian looks at Theodora for a while before responding to the patriarch. “The Empress Theodora and I thank you for taking time from your busy schedules to give us the benefit of your wisdom.” Justinian tone is solemn. “We will consider your concerns.” With that Justinian dismisses the delegation of orthodox clergy.

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Back in their private chambers, Justinian enjoys a meditative silence. Theodora does not disturb him. After a while, Justinian says. “I suggest that, before our empire crumbles around us, we work together, on these matters.” “What do you suggest, dear husband.” “You know that Queen Amalasuntha needs our protection.” “Is that so?” “The Goth chieftains want to seize control of Rome by ridding themselves of Queen Amalasuntha and her son. My spies tell me they have chosen Theodahad as their king.” “Theodahad?” Theodora responds, as if her spies have not already informed her and that Queen Amalasuntha, herself, had not sent an urgent request for protection. “Theodahad is the Goth who wants to oust Queen Amalasuntha and her son, Athalaric, from power.” “Oh my,” Theodora responds. “If I give you complete authority to handle situation in Alexandria, in any way you see fit, will you to allow me to deal with Theodahad and his Goths as I see fit?” “Of course, dear husband,” Theodora smiles, “I believe that is an excellent idea.” Theodora goes over to Justinian and gives him a kiss and a hug. “You treat me so well ___ and I love you so much.”

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To Be Continued ...

Copyright ? Eugene Stovall (2024)

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