#CRITICAL RACE THEORY PRESENTS EMPRESS OF CONSTANTINOPLE A Novel PART ELEVEN

#CRITICAL RACE THEORY PRESENTS

EMPRESS OF CONSTANTINOPLE A Novel

PART ELEVEN

EMPRESS OF CONSTANTINOPLE A Novel

 By

Eugene Stovall

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

EPISODE TWENTY - SEVEN

As if Justinian has not enough problems, his eternal peace treaty with King Chosroes disintegrates. Justinian sends for Strategius, a patrician senator and an administrator of the royal treasury. They meet in the high council chambers, “Strategius, my friend, you are an experienced negotiator.” “How can I serve his Imperial Highness?” “I have a mission for you.”

“... a mission?”  “King Chosroes is threatening to end the eternal peace between the Kingdom of Persia and the Byzantine Empire.”

“Why is Chosroes displeased, Highness?”

“He is concerned about the boundary between us, the land of Stratos, that extends into the Syrian desert.” “But Highness, nowhere on that barren land exists a single tree or any corn. The sun burns Stratos dry. It’s only use is for pasturing a few flocks when it is absolutely necessary.” “Nevertheless, King Chosroes claims that our possession of Stratos is cause for terminating the eternal peace .” Justinian gives his Treasury administrator a long look before continuing. “I wish for you to go to Persia and sort things out with my friend, King Chosroes.”

“I will do as you command, Highness.”

“I am sending General Summus, the commander of my Palestinian troops, with you. He will appraise you of the situation.”

“Sir, we should not give Chosroes any land belonging to the empire, not even Stratos, ” General Summus recommends to Strategius on their way to the Persian court. “Why not?”

“Stratos was once a crossroad for the entire Roman Empire. Armies in the east must pass through Stratos to attack any of the empire’s great cities or gain access the great sea.”

“I will consider your concerns, General,” Justinian’s envoy replies. But when they arrive at the Persian court, Strategius learns Chosroes’ cause for ending the eternal peace is more than just a piece of arid land that once served as a Roman crossroad. Vitiges, the Gothic leader that Belisarius brought to Constantinople in chains, sent envoys to encourage King Chosroes to resume hostilities with Emperor Justinian. Strategius returns to Constantinople to inform the emperor of the actual situation.

“Your Highness,” Strategius counsels, “Chosroes seeks a pretext for a war. Do not favor him for the sake of a small bit of land that has absolutely no value.”

“What of the prestige and glory of the empire?” Theodora asks who joins the discussion. “Highness, Vitiges sent envoys to persuade Chosroes to march against your husband.”

“What did these envoys tell Chosroes?”

“They complained that the emperor was a meddler and a lover of things which do not belong to him. They told Chosroes the eternal peace emboldens the emperor to attack other kingdoms, with impunity.”

“Tell us more.”

“Vitiges’ envoys claimed that you destroyed the Vandal kingdom and subjugated the Moors and Berbers only because Persia did not interfere with your aggression. The Goths trusted your friendship, but you repaid their trust by devastating Naples and invading Rome, attempting to overthrow their kingdom.”

“What more did Vitiges’ envoys say?”

“They said that it was evident that, once the emperor crushes the Goths, he will use the Vandals, Goths and other conquered peoples to march against Persia. And if this happens, King Chosroes will have no one to blame but himself.”

Justinian and Theodora sit quietly considering Strategius’ somber news. “This is what you get for not hanging Vitiges’ head over the city’s gate,” Theodora remarks.

“Thank you for your effort,” Justinian says.

Strategius bows to the royal couple and turns to leave. “Noble ambassador,” Theodora asks, “do you believe Chosroes intends to break the peace?”

“Yes highness.”

 “Strategius presented his findings to your high council,” Ascidas tells Justinian. “He said that Vitiges’ envoys warned Chosroes that unless Persia acted while the opportunity presented itself,  you would attack.” “Do you believe Chosroes will attack?”  “Your majesty Chosroes is even using the situation in Armenia as reason to break the eternal peace.”

While Chosroes protects Armenian territories inside Persia, some of Armenia’s larger cities are controlled by the Byzantine empire. Acacius, Justinian’s Armenian governor, plunders the population, seizes their property and imposes heavy taxes. When Armenians revolt and kill Ascidas. Justinian sends Sittas, the husband of Theodora’s sister, Comito, to put down the revolt. Sittas restores order by negotiating a treaty that cancels the new taxes. But Justinian is outraged. The emperor not only wants his taxes kept in place, but, in addition, orders Sittas to execute the Armenian rebels responsible for Acacius’ murder.

Sittas returns to Armenia with an army three times the size of the Armenian rebel force. The Armenians attempt to protect their women and children by hiding them in a cave. But an informant leads Sittas and his mounted guard away from the main Byzantine force to where the Armenian women and children hide. Sittas orders his guard to slaughter all the women and children. A larger Armenian rebel force overwhelms Sittas and his guard as he attempts to rejoin the main Byzantine force. In a furious encounter, Artabanes, one of the rebel leaders and an Armenian prince, singles out Sittas and runs him through with his spear, killing Theodora’s brother-in-law instantly.

“How is she doing?” Justinian asks Theodora when she returns to the Imperial Palace after informing Comito of Sittas’ death. “Comito is doing alright,” Theodora sighs, “but Sophia is heartbroken. “I can imagine,” Justinian remarks. “Sophia loved her father.” “Comito loved Sittas, too!” Theodora snaps. “I did not mean to insinuate anything,” Justinian says. “Of course, Comito loved Sittas. I merely meant ...” “I know what you meant!” Justinian says nothing more. He knows that, when Theodora is in her mood, it is best to leave her alone. “So what are you going to do about it?” “Do about what?” “Sittas’ death!”

General Bouzes served as the governor of Armenia prior to Acasius. He is not surprised that Justinian asks  him to return. “I want the Armenian rebels exterminated,” Justinian orders Bouzes. “and I want my taxes to be paid.” “Yes Highness.” Bouzes responds. “Nor do not want Chosroes to use what you do in Armenia as a pretext to break the ‘eternal peace. Is that understood?”

Upon arriving in Armenia, Bouzes sends messengers to the Armenian rebels. “The emperor wishes to negotiate a truce,” the messengers declare. “And he wants a reconciliation with all the Armenian peoples. Furthermore. General Bouzes will meet with the nobles of all the tribes to arrange an agreement.” However Bouzes’ messengers return to inform him that  none of the Armenian nobles trust the emperor to keep his word. “They are unwilling to even listen to the emperor’s proposals,” they inform Bouzes. However, one Armenia’s tribal elders, John, the father of Artabanes, who killed Sittas, trusts Bouzes. When Bouzes had been governor of Armenia, he was able to use John to his advantage. John considered Bouzes his friend. “I shall meet with General Bouzes,” John tells his fellow Armenian nobles. “Then I will report what the emperor proposes.” “It is not for nothing that, above everything else,  the Byzantines are known for hypocrisy, deception and lies,”  Artabanes warns his father.  “Bouzes comes to collect Justinian’s taxes and take vengeance for the death of Sittas.” “Bouzes is my friend,” John remonstrates. “A general’s only friend is his sword,” Artabanes replies. Nevertheless John. his son-in‑law, Bassaces, and a few other nobles agree to meet with Bouzes. Because Artabanes killed Sittas, John does not allow his son to accompany him. “Your presence could jeopardize our lives,” John cautions.

The Armenians arrive at the agreed meeting place on the day prior to the scheduled meeting. “Sir, this place is fit for nothing other than an ambush,” Bassaces warns his father-in-law. “When the Byzantines arrive, they will surround us, completely. Let us leave this place, at once before we are caught in their trap.” “There is no reason for alarm, my son,” John replies. But the other Armenians, agreeing with Bassaces, flee the Byzantine trap, leaving John to meet with Bouzes, alone. The next day, finding John waiting for him, Bouzes has his soldiers torture and behead his ‘good friend.’

John’s murder convinces the Armenian nobles that Justinian will never negotiate with them, in good faith. Bassaces leads an Armenian delegation to the court of King Chosroes.

"O king,” Bassaces addresses Chosroes, “Arsaces, the last king of Armenia, abdicated his throne and accepted the rule of the Byzantine Emperor, on condition that we, Armenians, should belong to the emperor’s family through all time. The Byzantine emperor promised that Armenians would be secure in every respect. Furthermore, the emperor guaranteed that we would not be taxed. We have the agreement in writing.” “And what has this to me?” Chosroes asks. “Once Justinian is able to subdue the people of the West, he will come for you.” “Why do you say that?” “Justinian has seized many territories that in no way belongs to him. He has made the Red Sea his possession and subjected to his rule the Libyans and the Italians.”  “You speak as though I have a duty to defend those who are too weak to defend themselves,” Chosroes laughs. “You respect that most accursed peace so that Justinian can make you the last morsel of all,” Bassaces declares. “The emperor has done as all emperors do.” “Which is?” “Expand their empires.” “Justinian recently to attacked the Huns who are utterly unknown to him, in order to make trouble for you.” “How does his attack on the Huns make trouble for me?” “You will find yourself without allies when Justinian attacks. He has already broken the treaty and ended your endless peace.” “If what you say is true, why should I become Justinian’s next victim?” “As it happens, the majority of Justinian’s soldiers are in Italy. The two generals, Sittas and Belisarius, are the best he has. We have slain the one and, because of his jealousy, Justinian will never again entrust Belisarius with a command." Chosroes stares down at the Armenians. “Thank you for your words. I will notify you of my decision.” Chosroes dismisses Bassaces and his Armenian nobles. “Shall I continue this peace with the Byzantines?” Chosroes’ councilors express many opinions. Some argue for war; others favor continuing the eternal peace. In the end, Chosroes acts as Justinian would act in his place.

****

“You did not resolve the Armenian situation as I instructed you.” Justinian berates Bouzes in a meeting of his High Council. “I did as I was instructed, Highness,” Bouzes replies. “The rebellion has ended and your taxes continue to be collected.” “And the Armenians have gone to Chosroes for protection,” Justinian observes. “You are dismissed General.” Then Justinian addresses his council. “You know the situation. What does my council recommend?” “Does the emperor think Chosroes is eager for war,” the high chancellor asks, “or is he being pushed by malcontents?” “What do you mean?” “Chosroes encourages envoys to speak their minds,” another councilor suggests. “Possibly Chosroes wants to hear the emperor’s thoughts on these matters.” “How should we proceed?” “There is a man from Daras, Anastasius, by name, known for his wisdom.” “And ...?” “Send this Anastasius to Chosroes with a diplomatic note. Ask him to learn Chosroes’ intentions.”

"Discreet men avoid war and God’s wrath,” Anastasius begins in his address to Choesroes. “Foolish men make war lightly, devising reasons for war that do not exist.” “Why has Justinian sent you here?”   “My master believes that destroying peace and waging war is easy for dishonorable men.” “Your master speaks from experience,” Choesroes laughs. “Majesty ...?” “Your master has a lot of experience getting out of wars that he enters on one pretext or another.” “Leaving aside these things,” Anastadius says, eying the King of Persia, “please consider the number of deaths that renewing a war will cause on both sides.” “How often has Justinian paused his aggressions to consider the number of victims his war cause?” “Think upon the oaths which you took when you accepted Byzantine gold,” Anastasius argues. “If you wrongly dishonor your oaths by some tricks or sophistries, you cannot retract them. For Heaven is too mighty to be deceived by any man." Chosroes laughs at the hypocrisy of Justinian’s ambassador’s argument. “The master of a realm that prides itself on deception and lies, an emperor who even now persecutes men of faith, corrupts the clergy and interferes with centuries-old religious practices would lecture me about right and wrong. Ambassador your hypocrisy is intolerable! Guards! Casts these tricksters into the dungeon and send a messenger to fetch the Huns!”

The Huns marshal a mighty army, cross the Danube River and attack Greece ___ from the Ionian coast to the suburbs of Constantinople, Huns plunder towns and cities,  capture fortresses and enslave thousands of captives.  Whirling about, they plunder Illyricum, Justinian’s homeland and invade Thessaly. At Thermopylae, the Byzantines mount their first defensive effort, but the Huns circumvent them and continue their destruction of all Greeks cities except those on the  Peloponnesian peninsula. Afterward their destructive frenzy through the heart of the Byzantine empire, the Huns withdraw, with their plunder and slaves, and retire to their homelands without opposition from Justinian or his Byzantine army.

After the sack of Greece, Choesroes ends the eternal peace treaty with Justinian and attacks Byzantine garrisons all along the border between Persia and the Byzantine empire. Justinian is furious and seeks someone to blame for his many colossal failures.

EPISODE TWENTY-EIGHT

In his Vatican palace, Vigilius contemplates how well he has managed himself into Christianity’s leadership position, aligned for him. The plague that devastated the empire, forced a terror-stricken populace to turn to the clergy as their only method of supplicating  God’s mercy for their salvation. Secular rule over the Italian peninsula has disintegrated into anarchy as Totila, Vitiges successor, promises to support Vigilius’ papacy in return for the pope’s recognition of the Gothic Kingdom. The Huns sacked  Greece, ending the vaunted eternal peace between Chosroes and Justinian and plunging the eastern empire into endless wars. The Lord God, Jesus Christ, has brought all of this to pass Vigilius boasts to himself,  to confer upon me the mantle of his godhead.   Now, with God’s kingdom ___the Arian Roman Catholic Church ___  safely ruled over by the Pope of Rome, Vigilius, ensconced in his Vatican fortress, guarded his Vandal warriors and Circumcellion monks, believes himself, master of the universe. Now, as  pope can bid for absolute authority, global power and wealth beyond imagination. Christians, everywhere drinking blood and the eating flesh, will bind the world into the Arian Roman Catholic Church under the Vatican’s invincible authority. Deus vult! God wills it!

In the midst of Vigilius’ reverie about the Vatican’s future as a world power, Bishop Raptus bursts into the pope’s study. “Your Holiness, Belisarius has arrived in Ostia and is now on his way to Rome!” “He will not be able to bypass Naples,” Vigilius observes, “nor will our friend, Totila, allow him to enter Rome.” “I fear you are mistaken, Holiness,” Raptus replies. “Totila declines to engage the Byzantine army and is allowing Belisarius to bypass Naples and enter Rome.”  

“Your information is quite enlightening, my son,” Vigilius responds. “What are Totila’s plans?”

“He plans to avoid engaging Belisarius.”

Upon entering Rome, Belisarius summons Raüs. “Bring your brother to me,” Belisarius orders.

“So Brother,” Raptus smiles, “you have returned with the emperor’s assassin.” “And I see that you have found your Gelimer in the Vatican,” Raüs laughs “I hope this one is wiser than the last.” The brothers embrace each other warmly.

“Totila is very wise to allow you access to Rome without hindrance,” Raptus observes.

“What about this Vigilius?”

“He has made the right moves, thus far.”

“I don’t know about that,” Raüs shakes his head. “It may be possible to defy Theodora without consequence, but his defiance of Justinian will cost him ...”

“What do you mean?”

“Vigilius refuses to endorse the emperor’s ‘Three Chapters’ edict,” Raüs says. “He believes that his authority over all the bishops in the western empire depends upon his defiance of Justinian,” Raptus explains. “His authority over the western clergy ___ as well as his life ___ depends on Justinian’s goodwill,” Raüs says. “What do you mean?” “Vigilius’ treachery has angered Justinian,” Raüs says. “The emperor ordered Belisarius ] to bring Vigilius back to Constantinople. The emperor wants your pope’s head ___ with or without his body.” “I warned him that not signing Justinian’s Three Chapters edict might be a mistake,” Raptus says. “But he can be very obstinate when he wants his way.”

 “War, pestilence, famine and death ____ the bible tells us these are a part of God’s divine plan for his Church to rule the world, my brothers.” Vigilius delivers \ a homily to a group of clerics gathered in one of the Vatican’s private chapels. “A sinful mankind can only be redeemed by Christ’s gift of salvation provided by a suffering humanity. The greater the suffering, the more worthy of redemption,  Humanity must suffer as the Divine Redeemer suffered. And by feasting on His divine flesh and drinking His holy blood, a suffering mankind can enjoy God’s kingdom. And it is our sacred duty, God’s elect, to bring a suffering humanity to the gates of heaven through a communion with his blessed saints and holy martyrs.”

Suddenly, in the midst of Vigilius’ remarks, Belisarius’ soldiers storm into the chapel and, seize the pope, dragging him out of the chapel without respect or ceremony. Bishop Raptus restrains the pope’s Vandal guard, ordering them not to interfere. “Where are you taking me?” Vigilius shouts out. “To Constantinople,” Belisarius replies. “The emperor wishes to settle some religious matters.”

Out on the Tiber, Belisarius’ soldiers rush Vigilius aboard a riverboat. From across the Tiber, Romans curse and throw stones at Vigilius, as he is dragged to boat. They know about his agreement with the Goths ___ allowing Romans to starve while the Vatican feasts. Once Belisarius has taken Vigilius off to Constantinople, Totila resumes his resettlement of Italy and Sicily as a Gothic Kingdom.

******

“How was your journey back to my capital?” Justinian glares at Vigilius. Accompanied by Ascidas, Justinian interviews the Pope of Rome in his private chambers. Justinian worries about his wife. Theodora has been feeling unwell and is not present. “I hope your return voyage helped you understand why you should fulfill your commitment to me and the empress.”

“My commitment, Highness?” Vigilius  arches his eyebrows. “What commitment is that?” 

Throughout his reign, Justinian deals with men who are neither honorable nor moral. Cappadocian John was so lacking in scruples that he lied even when the truth would have served his purposes better. How I miss that man, Justinian thinks to himself. Now I must rely on this priest Ascidas. He’s as bad as Belisarius, I never know when he’ll betray me on principle. Priests have more scruples than Theodora. But this Vigilius is a proper scoundrel. Possibly I can work with him,

“Holiness,” Justinian says, taking another approach, “I seek a way we might help each other achieve our goals?”

“I expected the Empress Theodora to join us,” Vigilius observes glaring at Bishop Ascidas. “In the past, you seemed to value her advice over that of a heretic.”

“The empress is feeling unwell,” Justinian responds, “however I will inform her of your interest in her advice.”

“It is probably just as well that she is not present. Women seldom are able to think clearly about religious matters,” Vigilius remarks. “They would rather sleep in the bosom of Christ.”

“Well. priest, you might well find yourself doing far more than sleeping, if you don’t mind your tongue and your manners,” Justinian snaps, angered by Vigilius’ insolence. Is he deliberately trying to insult me? Justinian wonders. “If your purpose is martyrdom, I assure you, I will make it as painful and lingering as possible. And your death will be without fanfare and your followers will believe that you died peacefully.”

Vigilius averts his eyes from the emperor, but a scowl lingers on his face. “Why has your Majesty brought me here?”

“You have betrayed me to my enemies, the Goths, you have allowed Rome’s citizens to starve while the Goths kept you amply fed in your Vatican palace. You have refused to sign my edict against the ‘Three Chapters’ and urged others not to sign, as well.” Glancing momentarily at Ascidas, Vigilius stares at Justinian, before responding. "Do with me what you wish. I have done as you have said and, in your eyes, deserve punishment."

Justinian notices how often, Vigilius looks over at Ascidas. He’s giving a performance, Justinian tells himself. “Guards! Take this man to his quarters, see to his comforts and see that he is not disturbed by anyone, unless I give my permission.”

"You may keep me in captivity,” Vigilius shouts, “but the blessed Apostle Peter will never be your captive." Justinian’s guards lead the Pope of Rome away.

“What do you think?” Justinian asks Ascidas.

“I think, your Highness, must try a different approach.” Ascidas shakes his head. “Why so?” “The way he continued to stare at me, I got the feeling he desired my approval.”

“Approval for what?”

“Possibly martyrdom!” “I thought of that.” Justinian frowns. “but I doubt his death will meaning anything. No one will miss him, after another takes his place.”

“Nevertheless, he has established the Roman Papacy,”  Ascidas observes. “Now you must allow this Pope Vigilius to serve you.” “How?” “By presiding over a synod with all the Church hierarchy in attendance. If he has the allegiance of the clergy throughout the empire, he might accept your edict banning the ‘Three Chapters’ willingly and do as he is told.”

****

Antonina visits Theodora in the empress’ private chambers. She is shocked at how sick and weak the empress appears. “What has happened to you, my dear,” Antonina asks.

“I’m just tired,” Theodora responds. “Nursing Justinian took its toll on me. And since he began prowling the halls every night, I can’t get any sleep.”

“Well, my dear, you must take better care of yourself. You look awful.”

“Thanks!” Theodora smiles. “I knew I could depend on you to tell me I look worse than I feel.”

“I watched Theodosius depart,” Antonina sighs, “he looks so different, don’t you think?”

“It was either having him depart Constantinople or risk having Justinian execute him,” Theodora reminds her friend. 

“Yet your husband tolerates the most despicable heresy of them all,” Antonina observes.

“Arianism is practiced by the Goths all over the empire,” Theodora confides. “Accepting Arianism is just his way of being practical. Barbarian tribes, emerging from Gaul, Germania and the lands east of the Danube River, have now overrun Italy, Sicily, Spain and Africa. And all of them practice the Arian heresy.”

“If he allows these savages to practice their pagan rites, how can he persecute Theodosius for being homosexual?”

“He doesn’t believe barbarians will ever set aside their Arian practices. But he thinks that once he gets Vigilius to incorporate the drinking of blood and the eating of flesh into the Christian liturgy, he can unite the empire.”

“So that’s why he made Vigilius, Bishop of Rome .”

“Of course, my dear.”

“But doesn’t Justinian realize that he is making Vigilius his rival?”

“You know men,” Theodora observes. “They only think about size. And the seize of his army is all that concerns, my husband.” “But, my dear, we really must do something about your health?” Antonina walks over and takes Theodora’s hand. “I have it,” she says. “We will take you to the Pythian baths. I hear the warm waters there perform miracles.”

“That’s a wonderful idea, Antonina. Perhaps we can persuade Saffyya to join us. She boasts that her father’s medicine man can cure anything. Possibly he can cure me.”

Theodora's health has always been delicate. Justinian often observed that when his wife wasn’t scheming, she was sleeping. After months of tending to Justinian and nursing him through his illness, Theodora’s failing health becomes noticeable and all Theodora’s friends applaud Antonina’s plans to organizes a trip to Nicaea’s famous baths. Saffyya even sends a military troop to North Africa to bring her father and a noted Berber healer to Nicaea’s Pythian baths.

Five thousand soldiers escort Theodora’s caravan north through Thrace and around the Black Sea into Anatolia, then down to Nicaea and the Pythian baths. Patricians, dignitaries and ministers accompany Theodora’s entourage of ladies, servants and courtiers. Along the journey, imperial officials provide Theodora’s caravan every amenity and courtesy. Hundreds of functionaries, seeking the empress’ patronage to assure themselves of rapid advancement and imperial power, flatter Theodora’s vanity to win her good graces. Theodora’s caravan travel through Bithynia with imperial pomp and splendor, attracting thousands just hoping for a glimpse of the Empress Theodora as she passes. All along her route, Theodora distributes alms to churches, monasteries and hospitals, requesting devout Christians to pray that God in Heaven will restore her health.

The city of Nicaea is heavily walled. Theodora’s military escort must encamp outside the main gate which faces the harbor. Her entourage and personal guard proceeds into the city to the imperial palace where  Emperor Constantine convened the First Ecumenical Council when twenty-two bishops, including Eusebius of Nicomedia, supported the Arian heresy. Here at Nicaea, Constantine’s Council also adopted the universal Christian declaration of faith, the Nicene Creed.

“These baths are not nearly as grand as those in Carthage,” Antonina complains upon entering the rather primitive, deteriorating, single level bath complex. “Nor even as good as the baths in that stinky swamp called Rome.” “Don’t worry dear,” Theodora replies, “these baths will cure my disease.”

Antonina notices how exhausted Theodora appears. Her poor health requires her to rest in the imperial palace for a week even before her first visit to the baths.  “Ah here is Saffyya.” The imperial guards escort, the North African beauty and her father into Theodora’s presence. “Saffyya! How good of you  to join us. I hope all is well with you.” “It is good to see you, Your Highness, how,” Saffyya bows. “This is my father, Chief Antalas.”

“May baraka and the peace of Christ fill your life with health and happiness,” Antalas says bowing low. Then without waiting for Theodora’s reply, the old man approaches the empress, examining her face, arms and legs, tracing her spine with his fingers, peering into her mouth and feeling her head. After he finishes his examination, Antalas speaks quietly to Saffyya.

 “My father says that you are very ill,” Saffyya says taking Theodora’s hand, “but if you do as he says, he can ease some of your pain and give you some comfort.”

“Thank you, my friend,” Theodora says. “Thank your father as well.” “My father says that he wishes that you had come to Nabuel. The Antonine Baths at Carthage are much better than this dump.”

For the next several weeks, Antalas works feverishly to restore Theodora’s health, giving her mineral and salt rubs and steamed exercises. Antalas supplements his physical therapy with herbal concoctions, some of which are so nasty they make the empress gag. Working feverishly to restore Theodora’s health, Antalas and his healer manage to assist Theodora regain some of her vitality.

“Did your father have much difficulty with the voyage from North Africa?” Antonina asks Saffyya during one of their frequent walks around Nicaea’s palace grounds.

“Oh no,” Saffyya responds, “he loves ocean voyages.”

“He does?” Antonina says somewhat surprised that an African Berber would be comfortable sailing on the high seas. “Has he sailed often.” “Oh yes,” Saffyya responds. “Once my husband’s friend, Ingvar, took us on voyage to my husband’s land. We sailed for a month until we came to a land called Sverige, where the sun never sets.”

“His birthplace?” “Yes, Vendel ____ where the Vandals get their name.”

****

Theodora is happy to return to Constantinople. The trip to Nicaea was exhausting. After a while, Theodora leaves her bed chamber to visit with her husband in their sitting room. Justinian worries even more about his wife. Since Theodora’s return her health has declined steadily. “I picked up a piece of information that should interest you while I was away,”  Theodora smiles.

“What information?” Justinian asks.

“Saffyya brought her father to the baths.”

“So?”

“He told Antonina that he had sailed through the Straits of Gibraltar past the English Isles to the land Raüs’ family calls Sverige.”

“How interesting for him,” Justinian yawns, “but what does that have to do with me?”

“It means that the Vandal pirates who wreaked havoc in the Mediterranean also come from this land called Sverige.”

“I still don’t see what that means to me.”

“Well, dear, if these Norsemen could form partnerships with the Vandals they could also form alliances with the Goths, the Franks and the Lombard’s ___ all of whom have one thing in common.”

“What’s that?”

“They all hate us!”

 Justinian thinks about what Theodora says. “Supposing you are correct, my dear, it will change little in our plans.”

“Don’t you think it makes a difference to know that you are competing against a power that has not even identified itself?”

Justinian remains silent. “I had Bishop Victor join me at Nicaea,” Theodora smiles. “I was informed about everyone who accompanied you to the baths,” Justinian snorts, “including Bishop Victor. You know I can’t trust you anywhere by yourself.”

Victor, bishop of the North African town of Tunnuna, is a historian and an advocate of the Three-Chapters pronouncement. Justinian had the African arrested and imprisoned in a monastery near Carthage. Theodora had Victor accompany Saffyya’s father to Nicaea.

“Bishop Victor is continuing the chronicle begun by the Africans, Sextus and Eusebius,” Theodora says. “Now Prosper of the Aquitaine is working on the chronicle.” “My dear, this conversation has become boring,” Justinian yawns. “And you have given me a good reason to have your Bishop Victor re-arrested and confined somewhere that you cannot free him.” “Listen to what I’m telling you,” Theodora says. “Prosper was trained in Bordeaux. He knew Goths, Franks and Lombards. His chronicle describes how all the barbarian tribes including the Vandals are tied to the Arian heresy.” “All the better,” Justinian replies, vowing to issue orders to re-arrest the Bishop  of Tunnuna as soon as he leaves Theodora’s chambers. “Your information identifying this mysterious enemy from Sverige makes it even more important that a pope in Rome control all of Christianity,” Justinian smiles serenely.  “Once I control the Vatican, I will control all the empire’s fighting men, no matter where they are born or live.  Greeks, Romans, barbarians, all united under an Arian Catholic Church, united in an invincible empire.” Justinian’s eyes blaze with satisfaction. “Once I bring Vigilius to heel, my empire will dominate the world for a thousand years.

EPISODE TWENTY-NINE

“Your Highness,” Bishop Ascidas informs Justinian, “Pope Vigilius has convened the first session of the synod.” “You believe this synod will accomplish my purpose, Lord Bishop?”

“I believe it has a reasonable chance of success.”  “That’s not what I asked.” “Doubtless the patriarchs and bishops will take your sponsorship of Pope Vigilius as a sign of his preeminence throughout the Christian world,” Ascidas responds. He seems too self-satisfied, Justinian thinks. Possibly he and Vigilius have formed a partnership. Good! If my counselor believes he controls the empress as well as the pope, I can control him. “You believe Vigilius will serve the interests of the empire?” “This is my expectation, Highness.”

“What is the synod’s agenda?”

“Pope Vigilius will open the proceedings with a papal mass.”

“After the mass, Pope Vigilius will condemn Origen and his teachings. After that the Pope will call for a reading of the Three Chapter edict, followed by a general discussion.”

“And Pope Vigilius has agreed?”

“Not yet, Your Highness,” Ascidas cautions. “but I have hopes.”

Justinian says nothing, but he is satisfied, for the time being.

On one of his daily visits to the empress, Ascidas tells Theodora how impatient Justinian grows with Vigilius’s refusal to make any concession on his Three-Chapters edict.” The emperor’s counselor marvels at the emphress’ bravery in the face of her declining health. Keeping Theodora abreast of the court intrigue not only raises her spirits but gives Ascidas insights into how Justinian thinks.

“Vigilius refuses to either sign Justinian’s Three-Chapters edict or admit Justinian’s authority over the Christian church.” Ascidas sighs.  “This  so-called Pope of Rome refuses to concede any of his power to the emperor.” “What do you think will be the outcome, Mi’Lord Bishop?” “ I have no idea how this standoff will end.” “Would you be surprised to learn that Vigilius is a member of a secret society known as the Pythian Brotherhood?” Theodora asks. Within the halls of the Palace of Hormidas, Theodora has learned many secrets. And to the Egyptian clergy under Theodora’s protection, neither the Pythian Brotherhood nor its ultimate goal is a secret to anyone.

****

Dressed in the brown robe of a monk and a cowl covering his head and face, Vigilius makes his way along Constantinople’s Theodosian Wall to the Xylokerkos Gate and the monastery of St. Mamas. Summoned to a clandestine meeting with the Pythian Brotherhood’s grand master, an exasperated Pope. Vigilius vows that, once he returns to Rome, he will never again submit to any more of these indignities to himself or his office. This grand master as well as the emperor must understand the role of God’s earthly representative, Vigilius tells himself. But in the meantime, the pope realizes he desperately needs allies who will assist his return to Rome and his Vatican fortress.

A monk escorts Vigilius into a meeting room deep in the bowels of the monastery. The Brotherhood’s inner circle, all are clothed in monks garb with cowls obscuring their faces, are arranged alongside the Grand Master who occupies the center of the table.

“Good evening Brother Vigilius.” the grand master greets the Pope. “I congratulate you on how well you are conducting your synod.” “I would have hoped the synod could have proceeded with more decorum,” Vigilius responds without addressing the grand master with the proper respect or humility. “Factions are tearing the synod apart, just as their heresies are destroying Christianity ___ leaving the One True Faith weak and vulnerable.”   “What issues you do you believe are causing the problems, Brother Vigilius?” “The Alexandrian and North African bishops refuse to accept my leadership,” Vigilius complains. “It was for this reason that I objected to their inclusion. But the emperor insisted ___ or shall I say his wife insisted on their inclusion?”   The synod’s proceedings have been more contentious and hostile than anyone could imagine.  The patriarchs of Syria, Armenia and India accept invitations to attend the synod, though they are members of the Oriental Orthodox Church and support the Coptic Christian churches of Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan. The Oriental Christian Orthodox attendees, insulted by Vigilius’ attempt to exclude the Coptic Church, refuse to accept Vigilius’ leadership. Angered by Justinian’s torture and execution of homosexual clerics, the patriarchs of Athens, Thrace and Tyre, refuse to support Vigilius because of his allegiance to Justinian. Vigilius’ only support is from the solid block of western European bishops who are solid adherents to the Arian heresy. Throughout the synod,  bitter quarrels erupt between the Nestorians, Gnostics and Manichaeisms making the sessions unruly and often violent. To Vigilius, who expected universal acceptance of his leadership, the synod is a failure.

“Tell me Brother Vigilius, ” Grand Master asks, “why does the synod waste its time condemning philosophers who are long dead and whose writings are largely forgotten.” “Because the synod task is to convert a weak, mindless religion into a force to establish God’s rule on earth,” Vigilius asserts. “You do understand that there is more at stake than your own personal ambition?” the Grand Master asks removing his cowl. “King Gelimer!” Vigilius gasps.   “Grand Master Gelimer,” the Vandal rebukes Vigilius. “You seem to have forgotten your oath, your responsibilities ____ everything but your enormous vanity.” “I beg your pardon, Most Worshipful Grand Master.” “And you would do well to remember your duties, if you wish to return to the Vatican.” The speaker, seated to the right of Gelimer, lifts his cowl. “Vitiges!”  Vigilius gasps, “Yes, my friend,” the former king of the Ostrogoths replies. “Here we are, together, once again.” “I guess you want my help to defeat the emperor?” Vigilius remarks trying to regain his composure, “Your role is not to guess anything,” Grand Master Gelimer replies. “Your role is to do as you are told, when you are told. Is that understood?” “The appropriate reply is Yes, Most Worshipful and Supreme Lord, Grand Master,” Vitiges laughs. “But how...?” “Brother Raptus is my nephew,” the Grand Master answers before Vigilius can finish the question. “Have you been guiding the course of the synod?” Vigilius asks.  “We have.” “To what purpose?” “Civilizations bind peoples together ___ peoples who are similar or dissimilar, intelligent or backward, brave or cowardly. However, all civilization achieve unity only when the people fear death.” The speaker to the left of the Grand Master is the last to reveal his identity ___ the emperor’s high chancellor, Bishop Theodore Ascidas. “If we are to reconstruct the Roman Empire, everyone everywhere must drink the blood, eat the flesh and fear the pain of death. Origen and many of Egyptian clergy attempt to teach the ancient wisdom of the Great Pharaohs and their high priests. They teach that every human soul is eternal and everlasting. They teach that each human soul always was and always will be. They teach that human beings, like all of life, need not fear death. But human civilization, whether Roman, Greek or Jewish, to achieve ultimate rule must eliminate this belief which ruins kingdoms and destroys empires. Belief in life everlasting cannot be tolerated. The sole purpose of Christianity is to see that no one believes in their own immortality!”

****

“I wish that I could have seen Vigilius’ face when Ascidas removed his cowl.” Theodora tries to laugh, but, with her deteriorating health, she barely manages a smirk. Justinian provides her a detailed description of the Brotherhood meeting, attempting to cheer her up  with his caricatures of the attendees. Theodora is now confined to her bedchamber where Justinian visits her several times a day. “As much as I hate to admit it,” the emperor observes, “thanks to you, Ascidas has served me well in this matter.” Then with a twinkle in his eye he adds. “... though not as well as Cappadocian John might have.”

The woman who has shared his life and his love, looks into Justinian’s eyes and smiles. “But dear husband, don’t you think it is dangerous for you to allow the continuation of this brotherhood?” “The brotherhood is invaluable,” Justinian laughs. “Sooner or later, my dear, that Ascidas, the brotherhood, Vigilius, all those you trust will betray you.”

Justinian’s synod continues. The rejection of Origen and his concept of preexistence slowly becomes the synod’s central concern. Under Bishop Ascidas’ skillful management, the various factions begin to realign for Justinian to achieves the centralization of Christianity under a unified leadership controlled by the emperor of Constantinople. Bishop Ascidas remains at Vigilius’ side, bestowing an heir of legitimacy, authority and on the pope permanency. Soon the idea of the Pope of Alexandria disappears before the reality of the Pope of Rome.  The clergy of the Coptic Church become increasingly marginalized. Finally they are ignored, altogether. Slowly, the Pope of Rome assumes greater significance among the synod’s attendees as leader of the Church and Christianity’s sovereign.

“Holiness,” Ascidas approaches the leader of the Christian Church, “you now have the loyalty of the synod.” “Truly?” Vigilius asks. “Now, that the church accepts your leadership, sign the emperor’s edict against the Three Chapters.”

****

“Well, my dear, we have succeeded,” Justinian tells Theodora. He rids his wife’s apartment of the myriad of clergy and notables from the Hormisdas palace as well as from Jerusalem, Antioch and even Alexandria ____ all of whom come to pay their final respects and bid their goodbyes to the empress. Though Justinian puts strict limits on the number of visitors, notables from all over the world continue to flock to her chambers. “What were Vigilius’ conditions?” she murmurs. “All Christians must believe their souls are God-given at birth. No one is allowed to believe in the pre-existence of the soul. No one is permitted to believe in reincarnation.” “Anything else?” “Vigilius, approved the Nicene Creed as the statement of belief required of all Christians under pain of excommunication.” “So this pope could excommunicate you, if he desired,” Theodora smirks. “He could try,” Justinian laughs. “I am making our friend, Prince Raüs and his brother, Bishop Raptus, patricians and knights of the realm.” “But my friends in the Hormisdas Palace will never accept these beliefs or this pope’s rule,” Theodora murmurs. “Nevertheless, this is the law,” Justinian says quietly. “It will be enforced by the Vatican pope and ...”| “... and by you,” Theodora smiles.

Over the next several days, Theodora grows quiet, struggling to breathe. “You must make me a promise,” she says one day. “Anything, my love.” “You must promise that after I am gone, you will protect the Coptic Church and allow their bishops to practice their own beliefs.” “I promise to protect them as long as they remain in Africa and do not meddle, interfere or try to convert Christians loyal to Rome and my empire.”

Theodora smiles wanly and nods her head in agreement. Not long afterwards, Theodora dies. Justinian maintains her sanctuary for Egyptian and North African clerics in the Palace of Hormisdas and her monastery at Sykae. Keeping his promise, the African clerics in the Hormisdas Palace are allowed to continue practicing the North Africa’s Coptic religion without persecution.

EPISODE THIRTY

 "Our Most Pious Consort Given Us by God"

Amid the bells tolling from every church in Constantinople, the Empress Theodora is carried in a sarcophagus in procession past crowds of mourners wishing their final farewell along the Mese, All along the path of her funeral cortege, weeping women strew bouquets of flower and assorted floral wreaths. The recipients of Theodora’s patronage, who had worked in Constantinople’s taverns, bordellos and Street of Pleasures followed her funeral procession by the thousands. Included in the throng of mourners were the residents of Theodora’s Convent of Repentance which served women forced or seduced into prostitution and had become either too old or too undesirable to continue in the profession. Theodora sent thousands of women from Constantinople’s streets to her Convent of Repentance until they were placed in suitable positions where they could live decent lives. Leading the procession from the sea wall, at the shore of the Golden Horn. and along the Mese, past the Makros Embolos marketplace, Emperor Justinian arrives at the Cathedral of the Apostles where he inters Theodora, Empress of Constantinople.

“We govern under the authority of God,” Justinian intones, fighting back his tears, manfully attempting to bid his final farewell to the woman he has loved. Our empire is delivered to us by His Divine Majesty. We prosecute wars, we enjoy peace, we govern the State, all by His Divine Forbearance. We lift our mind in contemplation of the Omnipresent God and do not put our faith in our arms nor in our soldiers, nor in our generals nor even in our own self. We rest all our hopes in the providence of the Supreme Trinity and in Him, alone. Now we lay to rest our most pious consort given us by God and to Him we commend her soul from Whom is promised our reunion and life, everlasting.”

****

Justinian recalls Cappadocian John to Constantinople. “I have a task for you,” Justinian tells his former advisor. “Am I to be allowed to resign from the priesthood and return to my palace, Majesty?” “Empress Theodora would not have wanted that.” “Then what will I receive in return for my performing this final task, Your Highness?” Just like the John I know, Justinian smiles to himself. “Despite your wickedness, greed and corruption, you will be allowed to die peacefully in Constantinople which is not what she wanted.”

“Your Holiness, Emperor Justinian begs me to inform you that you now have all the authority required to secure your position as Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. He now wants you to fulfill your part of the agreement and sign his edict against the Three-Chapters.”

“Bishop Ascidas is it?” Pope Vigilius asks.

“Yes Holiness.” “Well, Bishop Ascidas, how do I know that, after I have signed his edict, the emperor will not declare himself, head of the Roman Catholic Church?”

“Holiness, are we not in the same brotherhood?” Ascidas asks. “Do we not have the same objectives?”

Vigilius stares at Ascidas and considers his words with care. “Without giving offence to the grand master, I must consider that Justinian still has that darko, Narses, commanding Byzantine troops in Italy. The brotherhood would not want me to relinquish my authority and assist Egyptian Coptics against our Arian brothers.”

“No longer will the emperor be taking advice from Theodora,” Ascidas reminds Vigilius. “The emperor is not interested in turning the Christian church over to the darkos.”  “He has other family members to advise him.”

“Other family?” “Sophia, the daughter of Theodora’s older sister, Comito, and General Sittas, slain by the Armenian,  Antabanes. is betrothed to Justin, the son of the emperor’s sister, Vigilantia.” Ascidas eyes Vigilius. “And where does Germanus, Justinian’s cousin, fit into these plans?”

THE FINAL PART IS NEXT...

Copyright © Eugene Stovall (2024)

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