Caesar and Cleopatra

[ariosto]

http://www.ariosto.homestead.com/files/cleo.jpg



This is the story of a great love affair between the all powerful ruler of Rome and the seductively beautiful Queen of Egypt.
This does not follow the Bernard Shaw play of the same name, though I recommend it highly.
The affair was incandescent while it lasted but within four years Caesar lay dead on the marble steps of the Roman Senate.
Cleopatra would enjoy thirteen more years of life, much of it as the dominant lover of Marc Antony but that’s another story soon to follow.
Caesar and Cleopatra is a restricted thread with myself and Snork Maiden playing the title roles. New characters may be introduced as we go however and if your interested in playing please contact us by PM.




Prologue…

Crassus is dead, the Triumvirate is shattered and Gaius Julius Caesar, conqueror of Gaul has crossed the Rubicon, declaring Civil War on Pompey the Great.
The final battle is ferocious and the outcome of empire hangs in the balance but the Gods favor Caesar and his rival in fear for his life flees to the East to enlist the support of the Ptolemy’s, the Greek Pharaohs of Egypt and raise a new army to contest the rule of Rome with Julius.
In Rome the victorious Caesar is declared Dictator. He quickly consolidates power in his own hands and then turns his eyes to Egypt where the threat of a resurgent Pompey looms large. A dynastic struggle rages there between brother and sister, between Ptolemy XIII still a boy and his sister Cleopatra but a few years older.
Caesar sees an opportunity to kill two birds with one stone. To finish once and fore all the threat of Pompey and to incorporate a grateful Egypt into his growing Empire.

In 48 BC the expeditionary force sails for the port of Alexandria, the capitol of the Kingdom and at the moment under the control of Ptolemy and his advisors.
On arrival Caesar is appalled to learn that his rival the Great Pompey has been murdered by the Egyptians who present his severed head to Caesar as a gift…

At the time of his arrival in Alexandria, Caesar is a virile man of fifty two years with his sights set on the world.

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII - High Priestess of Ra

Prologue (Part 2) – In agreement with Ari this is the background pertinent to Cleopatra, which I have written in first person as an introduction of my character.

With the death of Ptolemy XII, my Father, I found myself in the unenviable position of acceding to the battered and beleaguered throne of Egypt. Cyprus, Coele-Syria and Cyrenaica have been lost once more and our once glorious nation is now heavily in decline. Our traditions and beliefs assaulted by the influences of the Syrians and Alexander’s armies from Persia. Indeed The great city of Alexander has been rebuilt but much of the middle and lower reaches of our glorious country are war ravaged and broken. Poverty and famine strikes at the stomachs of my proud and noble people, who have suffered long under foreign occupation.

With my beloved Fathers demise our Roman allies left a man named Pompey to guard us. I however by tradition was burdened with the task of acceding to the Egyptian throne to continue our dynasty in the name of the Ptolemies. To take such a role I was married to my brother Ptolemy XII; myself 17 years of age, my brother being only 12. It was a marriage for appearances at the advise of my Father’s council because by Egyptian tradition no woman could rule Egypt without a consort.

Of course I wasn’t in any way prepared to share power with a 12-year-old boy and saw to it that slowly my own dominance became known. Ensuring that only my head appeared on the coinage and Ptolemy’s name was drop gradually from many official documents. Slowly I tried to rebuild a fragile and wounded nation, I could not fight as a man, but as a woman I knew of more subtle ways to form alliances.

Our own army was strong but not as equipped as our Roman allies who sought to expand their own empire at the expense of our own. We were forced to raise unreasonable tributes to keep them from seizing our cities and our once friendly benefactors where now becoming a threatening occupier.

Now too in the year BC 49, I see an ally forming in the shape of our once arch rival Syria. Ceasing the opportunity to build a bridge between our two peoples who suffer together in famine and oppression, I arrange a group of mercenaries to perform a planned assassination of the Roman governor in Syria. The men are promptly extradited to Syria for trial leaving Egypt blameless and Syria noble in the eyes of the Romans.

But my brother’s advisors were growing fearful of the allegiances and power I was building through my negotiations and became tiresome and awkward in my dealings with foreign matters. I was to discover their reasons as on the advent of my brother’s 15th Birthday. A faithful and loyal servant informed me of a plot for my own assassination, by none other than Pothinus, a eunuch of much influence around the Egyptian court, and a Greek general by the name of Achillas.

Thus I was driven from my home and my beloved Alexandria, forced to take refuge in Thebaid with my faithful and loyal sister Arsinoe. I now had great need of allies and friends if I was to return to retake my rightful place as head of Egypt.

I had built many friendships in the lower Nile regions, friendly tribes of Arabs who settled around the Selemnia Oasia and to East of Pelusium came to my aid. My idiot brother and his advisors in a fit of spite cut grain shipments from the great granaries, increasing the suffering of my people in the hardening famine worsened by poor inundations of the Nile for yet another year, we took refuge in Syria, launching small attacks at Ptolemy’s army when ever I could.

It is now BC 48 and with Pompey’s defeat and betrayal again by my brother and his advisors as he seeks refuge in Alexandria, the internal feuding was brought to the attention with a brutal blow. Pompey’s head was severed before my brother’s eyes as Pompey steps from his ship in the harbor of Alexandria. His head is delivered to the Roman Senate as a gift from Egypt.

Shortly after news reaches me that a new powerful leader from Roman has landed, and taken and occupied my beloved city of Alexandria. My heart is heavy for the city I love so much and I resolve to do as much as I can to save her from this new and mighty foe. Ptolemy had fled with his army but he still has left many loyal supporters. I need a way to meet this new leader of the Romans, so that I might perhaps persuade him to spare my city and my people, a way to be smuggled into his presence with out raising the suspicions of Ptolemy’s spies. And so it is arranged …

 

[ariosto]

Caesar, paced the floor of his apartment in the palace of the Ptolemies. In the courtyard below the better part of the XIV Legion was billeted and Roman guards stood on the battlements. Outside his doors a picked squad of Legionaires stood guard and inside the squat figure of Marcellus Severus his pugnacious Captain watched him as he worked through an anger rarely seen lately.

"The vicious little bastard had his head cut off!"
He slammed his hand into his palm again and walked out on to the balcony staring into the dark Egyptian night. In the distance the Pharos light winked regularly. Marcelus waited, saying nothing.

"Have you taken care of it?" Julius hands were white knuckled on the balustrade.

"Yes Caesar, it's been packed in ice...set in a crockery urn and will leave for Rome on the dispatch ship in the morning."

"The rest..."

"Was thrown to the palace mongrels General...nothing left."

"Gods curse that evil boy and his pack of groveling pyschophants!
I would crucify them all at dawn if I could."

Marcellus stood up,
"I can have them dragged from their beds and on crosses before the glass turns Caesar."

Caesar looked over his shoulder, Severus was ready he knew to kill the lot of them. He'd once been a soldier under Pompey and had if anything more respect for him than Caeser himself did.

"No, no....not yet old friend."
The General walked back into the room and laddled wine from a finely wrought krater into his bowl. He rasied it to his lips and took a long swallow.
"Their time will come...soon."

"Have you any word of his sister, this uhhh...Arsinoe."

"Cleopatra, Caesar. Arsinoe's the younger sister."
Marcellus smiled. The General could never remember names.

"Yes...well, any word of this 'rebellion' of hers."

"Not much of a rebellion. She appears to be in hiding with a few hundred followers in a town not to far away. We're not sure of the exact location yet."
Marcellus realising he was not to be sent to dispatch Ptolemy and his dogs sat back down.

"She'd be a damned fine asset to have around when we did decide to kill the bastards...find her."

A gentle rapping at the door.
"What is it?" Marcellus boomed."

"There's a man out here. He has a gift for Caesar..."
The soldier called out.

"Well ask what it is for Gods sake!"

"I can't General Severus. He gave me a note...he's mute.

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII - High Priestess of Ra

The preparations had to be meticulous, my appearance immaculate and my demeanor soft, seductive yet strong and proud.

I arrange for one of my faithful servants, Sadiki, his tongue ripped from his mouth, a victim of my brother's savage rage, to procure for me a carpet of finest quality, a persian rug decorated with gold and silver thread with dimensions specific for my purpose.

My handmaidens Ain and Haqikah tend to me as I bathe and prepare my body.

My body is scrubbed with effeverscent natron, its cleaning properties invigorating me and bringing a deep glow to my tanned skin. Soothed by the aromatic fragranced oils of frankinsence and mhyrr I am prepared. My body hair is removed, my weapon of seduction smoothed and pampered for its ultimate attack, oiled and fragranced as the rest of my body, and my hair combed and treated similarly with crushed ochre and ferrous ores used to highlight strands of hair as Haqikah weaves it into intricate patterns.

Sitting in my bed chamber, the final touches are applied, crushed copper ores to produce the green eye shadow and rich black galena to dress my lashes and highlight my eyes. Its magical and medicinal properties required to protect me from the all seeing eye and also its repellant nature against the flies and mosquitos that swarm on the reed and flax beds of the nile.

Ain brings to me a fine bleached linen robe of finest hand woven Egyptian Cotten. It's whiteness so brilliant it glows with radiance in the light of Ra.

The preparation is solemn and silent, an air of apprehension hangs over us all, the fate of my Egypt lies in the hands of Bast and Ra.

Dressing in the simple garment, it's cut hanging from my body and tied at the waist with a cord of woven gold and silver.It is split at the side to my thigh and cut seductively low. For my feet simple Egyptian scandals of soft leather and around my neck the necklace of Ra, its rays of topaz and fine jewels identifying me as Queen of the Nile. My adornment is complete.

I gather my faithful handmaidens and Arsinoe my sister to me hugging each tenderly and we pray to black ebony statue of Bast for protection and guidance.

'And now my loyal friends I must embark on this perilous quest, my fate is too be sealed inside this Persian rug, I hope to see you all soon but if I don't, besure to resist, unite the tribes of Egypt and bring them to liberate my beloved Alexandria'

I hand a sealed note to Sadiki, It's contents plain and simple,

'Munificent Caesar, accept with the humblest admiration this gift from Eygpt, and respect the well being of my servant Sadiki who bring this gift to you,

Cleopatra, High Priestess of Ra, Queen of the Nile.'


Lying on the rug my servants roll me tightly inside binding it's ends with strong cords and dispatching me to Alexandria to meet my destiny or my death.

 

[ariosto]

The man carrying the carpet, for indeed such was the gift, was a perfectly proportioned Nubian, He strode in like a great cat, his skin gleaming like polished ebony across the corded muscles of his chest.

"Calm down Marcellus, he's the emissary of a Queen, not the spoils of war."
Caesar laughed and finished reading the note the sentry had handed him.

'Munificent Caesar, accept with the humblest admiration this gift from Eygpt, and respect the well being of my servant Sadiki who bring this gift to you,

Cleopatra, High Priestess of Ra, Queen of the Nile.'

Sadiki had placed his burden gently down and was kneeling beside it, his eyes downcast.

"He treats the damned thing like it was alive Caesar!...a Rug!
They give you a damned rug!"
Marcellus was livid.

"Hush now old friend...I've a feeling this carpet may in fact be alive."
Caesar nodded at the strange shape that seemed wedged in the midst of the roll...there was a gentle rise and fall of the heavy nap.

"Let me borrow your sword. Perhaps it's full of Nile vipers"

Sadiki may not have understood the words but he heard the sound of steel being unsheathed and was instantly alert.

Caesar smiled at him...
"Ahh I see we have your attention my Dusky friend!"
The sword tip slid along the rug, pausing at the point where
the hidden bulges looked most...provacative.

The Nubian leaped to hs feet and grabbed Caesar's wrist with the strength of a lion...he shook his head desperately, making inarticulate sounds.
Then General Severus dirk was at his throat...

"WAIT!"
Came a cry in Greek from the Carpet.
The three men exchanged glances, and Julius backed away, gesturing to Sadaki to unroll the carpet.
Marcellus was totally confused but stepped back as well.

The slave knelt again and holding the edge of the thick rug in his strong hands gave it a jerk and it unrolled across the floor...

Perhaps they should have rehearsed it one more time for rather than emerging like a Godess from the opened carpet, Cleopatra found herself face down on the marble floor with her sweetly curved bottom, not her kohl eyed face the first thing the Dictator saw.

She heard a gentle laugh,
"Rise up little Egypt and let me see what Ptolemy's sister has sent me."

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII – High Priestess Of Ra

The journey was uncomfortable, and quiet, though Sadiki was constantly guarding Me and the carpet gift there was no sounds to hear. We travelled by land from our Sinai hideout and joined a boat sailing north from Menefer Pepi, the ancient capital of my for fathers. Its once splendid Temple complex dedicated to Ra and the altar of Thoth now in ruins, ravaged by wars and plundered by robbers it shanty like dwellings a poor reminder of its once thriving economy and seat of power. Occasionally there would be calls from the boats men as crocodiles approached the boat, the oars men discouraging their advances with well placed blows. As the evening sun set the wind rose slightly as the desert cooled creating air currents and allowing the boat to set its sails. The oars fell silent now as the boat was carried by the slow currents of the Great River, and aided by the sails affording their owners some rest. I was warm inside my fabric wrapping but knew my journey would a be while longer.

Sadiki my faithful Man servant however kept me supplied with pomegranates passing them down inside the loosely wound rug, which I was able to drink the juice from by sucking on a short reed stem inserted into the sweet fruit.

By morning Menefer and Sakara were well behind us, I had slept well but my comfort was diminishing having been enshrouded for over a day. We reached Alexandria around high sun and duly arrived at the Palace escorted by several Roman soldiers who obviously mistrusted Sadiki due to his size and stature.

Finally I could feel the carpet being laid to rest in the ground and through the thick material I could make out the sounds of talking and laughter. There appeared to be a pause and some debate though I could not understand this strange language. The familiar sound of a sword being unsheathed however needed little translation, I waited, listening nervously. I could here the sound of it tip running over the carpet pausing above my chest which was rising and falling rapidly now.

Suddenly there was a commotion as Sadiki clearly acting to defend me made some movement. I could her him protesting gutturally as the probing continued, I realised his life was at risk, ‘So much for Roman honor’, I thought to myself recalling my words of compassion regarding his treatment. I could do nothing bu shout out ‘Wait’.

Everything went silent again and then more debating, I felt the Carpet shift as someone moved to untie its bonds, then I felt myself rolling over and over as the carpet unravelled. Such was the force of the action that I was ejected from the end coming to rest some four or five cubits from the edge of the rug, face down and somewhat dishevelled.

"Rise up little Egypt and let me see what Ptolemy's sister has sent me.", one of the Romans said, laughing. The Romans were laughing at Me!, ‘Bastards’, I thought.

Sadiki was instantly beside me, offering his hand to help me to my feet. I rose slowly, with as much grace and dignity as I could muster given the unfortunate incident which had clearly backfired.

Before me I could see two men, one a middle aged man in his late forties or early fifties. Grey hair was something no Egyptian would tolerate yet to these Romans it seemed perfectly acceptable. The younger man, clearly of junior rank from his less resplendent outfit stood with a drawn sword observing Sadiki who now stood to the side of me his head bowed. I turned to him and raised his chin lightly with my hand ‘Sadiki, you need not lower your head here’, I said to him gently in Egyptian. He stepped back watching the younger man cautiously. I stood before the elder man also eyeing him cautiously. Was this the mighty Caesar? I waited to see what reaction he had, switching my glances between him and the sword wielding lieutenant he had standing beside him.

 

[ariosto]

"By the God's you're a pretty thing!"
Julius walked slowly around the Queen of Egypt while Marcellus sheathed his sword with a bang, never taking his eyes from Sadaki.

Cleopatra stood as still as a statue in ivory as great Caesar completed his 'inspection'.

"Clea petra...is it? I must say your almost as pretty as your brother!"
He laughed at the thought of the ornamental popinjay pretending to be a King and a God...then he frowned darkly at the memory of the 'gift' that Ptolemy had crowed over.
Pompeys head...

She saw his expression change from one of delight to one of anger and panicked inside...
"Cle.O.p.A.tra...Caesar...Daughter of Ptolemy XII and rightful Queen of Egypt!"

It was in her nature to take the offense when on unsure ground...the very trait that sent her running from Alexandria in fear for her life a few months before.

"Bold little creature aren't you?"
Julius sat down by the table and picked up his wine cup,
"So tell me can Egypt have a Queen? I thought the ruler of the Nile had to be a male, though I do wonder at your brother...that Horus, Osiris thing you know."

Cleopatra felt more comfortable now that the Romans glowering presence was a few feet away.
"Noble Caesar has studied the sacred religions of The Two Lands then?"
He nodded,
"I am you see as rightful ruler of the Kingdom the manifestation of the divine Horus. Son and heir of..."

Caesar pushed a footstool towards her with his foot.
"Well you look like no boy I've ever seen and I'd bet a legion you've no prick between your legs..."
Marcellus guffawed behind her and Sadaki leaped to his feet.

"Oh come on! Everyone calm down...Cleo dear, please sit down and let's figure out how we can get rid of that ridiculous creature who claims to be your brother."

Her heart warmed to him as she saw the micheivious grin spread across his face.

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII - High Priestess of Ra

I flashed my eyes wide, such that their whites contrasted against the blackness of my Kohl make up and dark tanned skin, a technique I had been taught with great impact by my Mother. My face expressionless as I watched the Roman leader pour himself a goblet of wine and his attractive Lieutenant who certainly had quite body under his armor. Mentally I made a . Adept in the arts of poisons she thought to herself whether she might get some opportunity in the near future to enhance a cask or two for his later enjoyment. The thought passed quickly as the ridiculing continued. ‘Almost as pretty as her brother! Indeed’. Still she refused to display any outward emotion, quietly contemplating her next move. The wine did look inviting given the two days travelling in a rug with only the welcome juice of an occasional pomegranate. Still it seemed the manners of this ruler where equalled only by the sophisticated wit of his mockery.

“As you must well be aware from your studies, it is not possible for a woman to rule as queen without a consort, expediency has its price as I am sure you already appreciate.”, I replied. “and it’s Cle o pat ra”, I added emphasizing the syllables.

I watched as Caesar pushed a footstool forward towards me. Like I was going to sit on it whilst he sat on My throne. Stepping forward I allowed my leg to emerge form the side of my dress and remained standing regarding him. More derogatory jokes ensuing regarding my gender I could restrain myself no longer.

“Noble Caesar, it would appear that you are indeed well educated and yet you cannot determine whether you have a preference for boys or women”, my anger was tempered only by the guards that stood nearby, “Perhaps you would have rather had my brother been presented to you?”

I flashed my eyes angrily at him and his lieutenant, although I did allow myself to cast my eyes noticeably up and down Marcellus’ rather hot looking body.

 

[ariosto]

"Why General Severus, I believe the Lady fancies you!"

They both laughed and Cleopatra tried very hard to maintain her glacial detachmentin the face of growing anger.

"You see my dear, Marcellus would much rather have that fine looking young man of yours than you!
It's I who am the lecher that fancies beautiful women...not so General?"

Marcellus grinned,
"Indeed Caesar, though I would give the lady a tumble if sore pressed."

"A tumble!...really my friend, this lovely creature is the divine Queen of Egypt. One does not TUMBLE her...one flatters, courts and adores her."

"Caesar I wish to speak of the future of my country not a stiff necked Roman's methods of seduction!"
She stamped her pretty sandaled foot.

"Ahh my beautiful girl, This Roman is indeed stiff, though not in the neck...Marcellus leave us and take the handsome boy with you."

"Sadaki stays!"
She was losing her control and realised for the first time she could be in danger.

Caesar stood up slowly and gripped her arms. His hands were large and surprisingly rough.
Marcellus had once again drawn steel and it was pressed against the mutes chest lest he interfere.

"No. He goes.
You are the Queen of Egypt only if I wish you to be.
You are a willfull girl...a stubborn and ambitious one who will do anything to sit in your brothers place...anything."
He looked deep into her eyes. His face was no longer smiling, it was frightening.
"Order him to go with Marcellus...now."

 

[Snork Maiden]

"Enough!", my temper reaching breaking point, I had listened to the banter and I would be intimidated no further.

"Indeed he will NOT leave on YOUR command", I turned to Sadiki, "You will remain in my presence until I say so.", I commanded him. Sadiki bowed his head in acknowledgement.

Turning back to face Caesar, his arm gripping mine firmly. "I suggest you release my arm, You may occupy my Palace and your army my City, but you do not govern here. Egypt's tributes to Rome are complete and in order, and I have no quarrel with either yourself or with Rome. I am not responsible for the actions of my brother and I am currently not in a position to much to assist you. Even the mighty Caesar must realise that Egypt will not fall easily to even his mighty Army, what ever may be left there after, may not prove be worth the effort, so I suggest that you first release my arm, and that you show more respect for myself and my people."

My position had been expressed, I waited for his reply adding, "Of course if I were to be restored to my rightful position I am sure Rome and Eygpt can certainly prosper from an ageeable alliance. As for your General, if he does indeed prefer boys, perhap he may take sport with my brother"

Turning to Sadiki once more, "You may take your leave Sadiki, I am sure Caesar here will afford that you receive no ill treatment and that you can bathe and refresh yourself after our long journey"

I looked back at Caesar, "That is not too big a request to ask is it?"

 

[ariosto]

"Marcellus,"
Caesar's eyes never left her face.
"Do as the Queen suggests...you may go."

The door closed behind them and they were alone.
He released her arm, walked to the table and poured more wine offering her a goblet. She shook her head disdainfully.
"Falernian...the best. You really should try some."
He drank deeply.

"You drink to much."

"YeGods! You reproach me like my wife!"
A heavy silence hung between them.

He took both her arms, more gently this time.
"What they've said about you is true. You are the most beautiful woman I've ever laid eyes on yet you have more balls than your brother ever dreamed of."
He took a deep breath.
"Please sit down."

They sat side by side on the divan...the stern Dictator and the Queen of Egypt. The tall palm trees of the Nile swayed beyond the windows and a sickle moon hung low over the desert beyond the river.

"Ptolemy and his advisors comitted a grave error in murdering Pompey. One they will pay for with their own lives.
Do you wish him dead...this silly King your brother?"

Cleopatra was taken aback...a look of surprise crossed her carefully composed features.
'My brother...You'd kill my brother?"

"Indeed I will...I can order it done right now. The palace houses 3 cohorts of the XII legion and my bodyguard. He would be powerless to stop us....irregardless of what you say he will be King no longer than it takes to sit you on his throne tomorrow."

He stood up and began pacing...she watched him intently.
"Rome has no desire to annex Egypt but we demand loyalty from our friends and regular shipment of grain..."
He paused and pointed a finger at her.
"If you are sole ruler will Rome recieve what I've asked you for?"

The breeze was beginning to freshen and the wind was sighing in the palm tops as she prepared her fateful answer...

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII - High Priestess of Ra

His demeanor seemed to change with the closing of the door as the last of his Generals left the room with Sadiki..

He will be well treated, I enquired dubiously as Caesar eyes watched the party depart.

He nodded, We are all honorable men though it may not seem so to you

I relaxed at his words, watching him as he poured a second glass of wine. He turned briefly offering me a glass.

You drink too much, I replied shaking my head in refusal of is offer. He took a drink from the glass walking towards me and placing the cup on the low polished cedar hardwood table, before grasping my arms again, this time more gently.

Holding me before him he regarded my body complimenting me on my appearance, indeed this was a much more congenial manner and it lessened my anger somewhat, we was afterall not an unattractive man, certainly one with great influence which could be bent to my benefit.

Walking me to the large divan we sat a while.

Indeed, I fear my brother made a grave error in his actions by dispatching Pompei in such a ignoble manner. He was a good friend to Eygyt indeed he should have received better hospitality from Alexandria when he needed refuge., my eyes staring directly into Caesars as I spoke, my voice softening.

Again Caesar must understand that I am indeed powerless to act, the people have been poisoned against me and my followers few. I could not be seen to have played a part in the demise of my brother, neither should Caesar set his army to seek him out for I fear such an act would inflame the hatred of my people against Rome. We already suffer greatly from our tribute to Rome, our children's stomachs are empty our field's lie fruitless, Osiris has forsaken our harvests and Bast sends her pestilence through the houses of our villages., I paused rising from the bed to walk to the table this time to pour two glasses of wine.

Returning to Caesar side and offering a glass I continued, It would fair better if Caesar were to take venegence personally for the deeds of my brother, such an act would be seen as more just by my people and perhaps a reduction in the tributes for a few months would fill their bellies and distract their mood.

I paused momentarily again thinking, "Of course there is another problem Caesar which rises from such and abrupt departure of my Brother, I cannot rule as Queen with out a male consort, such is the traditions of my forefathers, perhaps you have a suggestion for this slight problem " I flashed a seductive smile at him

 

[ariosto]

"I believe we can find you a consort without any trouble at all.
I'd offer myself, though I feel my wife and Rome itself would be somewhat upset to find me slit eyed and shaven headed on my return."

She looked at him and her eyes twinkled,
"Soon Caesar will not need to shave his head."

He blushed and anger flashed across his face as he clapped his hand to his thinning hair...indeed he'd soon be bald as an egg.

He slipped his arm around her and laughed at her joke, finally erasing what tension lay between them.
"You're a bold Fox. You ask me to personaly asassinate your brother, relieve Egypts tribute to Rome and then insult me!....
I think we can do business."

There was a rapid knock at the door.
"Go away!...I'm speaking to the Queen of Egypt!"

The door burst open. Marcellus strode in...
"Caesar, the boy found out she was here. He's on his way now with a dozen palace guards to take her."

Julius looked at Cleopatra,
"TheKing may have more brass than I thought.
Should I give you to him?"
She stiffened...her face became an emotionless mask once again.

He turned to his General.
"Stop them. Disarm his guard. Place him alone. ALONE I say
in one of the more uncomfortable rooms in the palace.
Tell him that he will be tried before a military tribunal for the murder of a Roman Citizen at noon tomorrow and crucified."

Cleopatra stood up angrily!
Caesar stilled her objections with a raised hand.
"Tell him his only recourse is to surrender his position to his youngest brother, who will wed Queen Cleopatra this very night."

Marcellus grinned broadly,
"My pleasure Caesar. It will be my pleasure."

They were alone again.
She looked at him with new found respect though the same thought had crossed her mind as she lay sweltering in the rug, her fate still very much undecided.

"I believe young Ptolemy is nine years old, is he not?"

"Ten Caesar."

He walked over and took her in his arms.
"It will be awhile then before he can fulfill his conjugal duties."

His breath was warm on her cheek,
"May I offer myself as his stand in for the immediate future."

Her mind was whirling from all the ramifications of what she might or might not do in the next few moments.

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII - High Priestess of Ra

Being on familiar ground certainly helped me even though I still felt like a stranger in my own home. This Caesar was indeed a man to be reckoned with and not to be taken lightly. Still I had to push the limits to see what latitude I could command with respect to his tolerance of me and jokingly quipped about his receding hairline.

It did indeed bring a smile to my own face but I watched as his turned red. I paused, was he about to explode with rage.

His hand rose rapidly and I stepped back turning my head flinching expecting a hefty slap for my insolence. The sound of the slap came, but not to my face instead to his forehead. His fingers explored the barren brow of his forehead. the silence broke, he was laughing. My worried expression relaxed as the smile broke across my own face. Indeed it would appear that the juxtaposition we had each adopted had met finally at a common point.

There was a knock at the door, interrupting our jovial tete a tete; it was the homosexual general, Marcellus, announcing that my brother Ptolemy XIII, had been located.

”Indeed you wasted no time in seeking your quarry”, I thought to myself recalling the earlier banter form Caesar.

Caesar turned to me and spoke, ”Should I turn him over to you ?”, he asked, but before I could answer he continued with his own proclamation of action.

I stiffened, hearing his words, the reality of course was a situation of mixed emotions, on one hand my brother indeed had brought much of this upon himself, and yet he was still my brother. My mouth moved to utter my objection but it was silenced before it started. Marcellus' eye glinted with perverse pleasure at the instructions of his commander and turned to leave the room again expressing his delight.

Alone again I looked at Caesar cautiously,”how quickly his demeanor changes”, I thought, I could not allow myself to drop my guard for a moment with this noble opponent, I needed a plan of action.

”I believe the young Ptolemy is nine”, he stated almost casually as his fervor abated.

The Ptolemy he referred to of course being Ptolemy the Younger, My youngest brother.

”Ten” I corrected almost reading his thoughts and un-stated idea, before I could again object he continued

'It will be awhile then before he can fulfil his conjugal duties., he walked over to me and embraced me.

My body stiffened, what now? what was his plan?, I could feel myself losing control of this situation, manipulated in way that was not in the manner of Cleopatra.

”May I offer myself as his stand in for the immediate future”, the punch line was delivered, calculated and planned.

I looked up at him studying his eyes, looking for a sign of his intent. Then recalling the situation with my brother my mind rushed over the scenarios, playing each to it conclusion, a conclusion that faired not well for myself or my Egypt.

”Caesar, must do what Caesar must do”, I replied. ”But I caution you again, what ever you choose for Me or the fate of my brother, remember it is ultimately the people of this land you will have to reckon with.”

I turned from his embrace and walked toward the window, the warm Mediterranean breeze billowed the long linen drapes which hung to each side of it. ” A long drawn out war, to conquer Egypt would be an costly expedition, your soldiers I am sure are skilled in the art of warfare, but in the desert Caesar you might just find that we have several thousands of years of experience of repeated invasions and successful repulsions. “

I turned once more to face him as he stood at the foot of the large divan, “Ptolemy must be brought to justice, this too is an Egyptian virtue, a wrong has been committed it must be righted. But this crucifixion will not bring you satisfaction, you must avenge your own heart, you must deal with this matter wisely, with caution, considering the outcomes of such an action.”

I started to approach him again slowly never breaking my gaze from his own eyes, ”I can assure you a public execution and humiliation will do nothing but turn my people against you and Rome. You must deal with this problem in a manner that meets true retribution. Pompey met his demise at the hand of my brother. He was a great and noble Roman, slain in treachery by the hand of a young King, without need of an army.

I stopped in front of him, looking up into his eyes, ”So now the balance should be metered. It should be Caesar that takes this action not his generals. There is no honor in taking a revenge in such a way. You should act yourself, with you own hands and without assistance, this would be seen as an act of revenge, an act of one man avenging another and not the act of an army against the head of a nation.

I placed my hands on his chest, feeling the strength of his body beneath his tunic. He may well have been a seasoned man, but he was indeed in good condition, I needed to think for the future of my country, a future after mine, an heir. This man was strong, and intelligent, an heir born of this man would indeed serve Egypt well. There was of course a Wife to contend with, but she was beyond the horizon.

I walked a short distance from him again and turned looking from the windows of the chamber across the harbor and the glittering Mediterranean. Subtly I adjusted my dress releasing the fastening and allowing it to fall from my body. I stepped from the garment turning to face him once more, my legs slightly a stride, standing proud before him, my oiled and smooth shaven body lightly tanned.

”Behold!”I announced! ”Behold Egypt, Queen of the Nile, Hand maiden of Isis, High Priestess of Ra.

 

[Blarneystoned]

Biggus Dickus

.....And now for something completely different.


(Years of inbreeding and lead poisoning had left Rome in a terrible quandry...at the moment all the royal family could scrape up was a gap toothed, speech impedified, raving lunatic who dressed in pink.....Thank the gods for Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony.")


I have a fwiend in Wome named Biggus Dickus, the Emperor bragged. "Qwit smiling Centurion or it's off to Gwadiator School with you !"

Meanwhile the doors opened and trumpets flared, Centurions beat their chests in mock salute. "All hail Biggus Dickus! Conqueror of Gluteus Maximus!" cried the Emporer

Just when all hope was lost....Commander Julius returned from his victorius campaign in Gaul. Riding into the Emporer's thrown room and through the Praetorian Guard ....He rode in on a black stallion and trampled down Biggus Dickus and smashed in the emporers head with a mace.

"Long live Julius Caesar cried the Centurions !! Vine Vide Viche !"

--cool thread had to bump it a bit with a little Monty Python ...haha...Snork...Walk like an Egyptian you Greek Goddess!

Keep smiling,

Blarney

 

[ariosto]

WTF !
Blarney this thread didn't need bumping. GGRRRR!

 

[ariosto]

"Behold a Goddess." he whispered.
Caesar looked at the divine body revealed before him, looking like gold in the lantern light...
From delicate sandled feet her long smooth legs rose high to join at the soft clefted mound of her sex. Her belly was firm and curved, her waist narrow as an hourglass, her young breasts were carried high, the nipples rouged, her thoat ...
He stopped his delightful perusal of her body and looked directly into her eyes, eyes as dark and brooding as the heavy night beyond the windows, holding her gaze in his as he removed his own simple belt and tunic.

"Behold Gaius Julius Caesar....general."
His remaining hair was almost all iron gray and gray had even creeped into the thick thatch of it spread across his warriors chest. His body was taught and well muscled for a man of his age.
Cleopatra tried to look straight ahead unmoving but there was no way she could avoid seeing his large tumescent penis rising rapidly towards full erection...the symbol of Rome.
She smiled.

He approached her,
"So the Nile will flow with the Tiber."

Another step.
"And the General will unite with the Priestess."

Another step...his rough hands on her arms.
"And Rome will merge with Egypt...."

His lips brushed hers then met them in a meltingly hot embrace. His arms slipped around her waist and drew her tight against him.
His cock was tall and hard between them, pressing hot against her belly, she could feel it throbbing there, tight against her skin.
Caesars lips were against her cheek...

"And who shall conquer who, I wonder...?


OOC...that's it for now Cleo...looking forward to the next scen though...it will make three weeks go by a lot faster.

 

[ariosto]

(((bump)))))

Hey Kleo, quo vadis?

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII - High Priestess of Ra

I watched as Caesar perused my naked body, his eyes climbing from my feet and rising to my face until once more our eyes met again. I smiled slightly, ”I hear that Caesar is a great adventurer and has visited many lands, how then does Egypt compare, as you cast your eyes across her, from her lower reaches of the Nile through the ‘Valley of the Kings’ and Middle Egypt over the fertile lands that provide our Nation with nourishment to the soft rolling Dunes of our golden sands and so to Alexandra with her magnificence set against the deep blue of the Meditteraen” I paused as he unfastened his belt allowing it to fall to the floor as he pulled the tunic he was wearing over his head.

Now standing naked before me, he spoke once more ”The Nile will flow with the Tiber” , as he advancing towards me.

For the first time I could see fully what I had only had the suggestion of before. His turgid shaft jutted from his loins and stiffened further, the natural response of an aroused man. My eyes glanced at it briefly not wishing to show to much enthusiasm, and yet as it twitched and rose higher I could feel my own excitement and lust stirring inside me. Fixing my eyes once more on his I gazed at him, regarding his weathered brow. Indeed Caesar was not a young man, but he was well toned. It was clear that he had not wasted his time with the same frivolities that so many of his predecessors had indulged, becoming fat and flaccid slugs.

He stepped closer, ”And the General will Unite with the Priestess”, he continued. His intentions were indeed clear, he was not at all inhibited, I liked that, he was not demanding and yet assertive, a noble quality. My eyes flashed quickly again downwards towards his now fully engorged penis. It’s head glistened in the low light which illuminated the chamber, a bead of clear dew formed on it summit. The tip of my tongue flicked and licked my upper lip lingering momentarily before returning to my mouth.

My arms now extended to welcome him and his powerful hand grasped my lower arms gently, as he took a further step forward and pulled me towards him. ”And Rome will merge with Egypt” he said looking down into my eyes. Our lips brushed lightly, as they began the slow courting prelude that would lead to full contact. My button nose brushed against his own aquiline proboscis, the coarse matt of his chest hair pressed hard against my soft bosom and his rampant shaft sandwiched between our bodies; it head nestled comfortably in the indentation formed my by navel. His arms encircled me, holding me firmly against his body. ”And who shall conquer who..” His words whispered in my ears as he nuzzled the nape of my neck.

My own arms curled upwards under his own feeling the strong back muscles of this middle-aged man. My face brushed against his his skin lightly roughened by the days stubble exhilarated me as he continued to nuzzle and nibble my neck, my eyes closed at the pleasurable caresses, my lips parted. It had been a long time since I had had the pleasure of a Man.

”Then let neither be conquer or conquered”, I whispered back in his ear, caressing the back of his body, letting my hands slid down to his buttocks. ”Let the son of Jupiter, walk freely with the daughter of Isis across the fields of Osiris.”

Our mouths met once more, this time out lips pressed together, he seemed unsure, my finger squeezed his buttocks lightly as the tip of my tongue pressed through my lips and between his.

A peacock call echoed from the courtyard outside as Ra’s chariot sank over the horizon. A soft breeze blew through the open window billowing the fine cotton meshed drapes that hung across them.

 

[ariosto]

Her body was milk smooth and bathed in a deliciously pungent scent that he found as intoxicating as the wine, sitting forgotten on the table.
Cleopatra was now his drink, his passion and in lovemaking as in war he comitted himself totally.
His lips caressed the tip of her tongue and sucked in against his own. As her hands grasped and squeezed so did his, cupping and molding to her breasts, feeling the hard nubs of her nipples in his palms.
She leaned back against a column of serpentine marble and allowed his knee to part her legs, she could feel the pulse of blood in his erection, their bodies were so close.

"I'm a wild bull of the Campagna little Goddess,"
He whispered hoarsely in her ear.
"And now I wish to graze."

His hands went to her ivory shoulders and pressed her back against the cool stone, his lips slowly caressed the fine line of her jaw and then made their way along the graceful curve of her throat...down and then up along the rising swell of her firm young breasts.
His eyes met hers and gleamed mischievously as his tongue swirled around the disk of sensitive pebbled flesh that surrounded each nipple.

Cleo arched her back and pushed herself against his lips...
"Taste me then Roman Bull, I am the sweet Nile wheat that feeds you."

His hands cupped her and raised her to his mouth. He took her into it's moist warmth.
Her nipples became aching centers of pleasure as his tongue rolled and thrummed across the tips, as his fingers kneeded and squeezed her breasts.
Her own hands linked behind his head and drew him in even closer, crushing his face against the sweet mounds that pleasured him so, that pleasured both of them.
She sighed, her breath came faster...

He felt her hips move, felt the naked swell of her mons rubbing at the base of his cock, his thighs tensed and he answered in kind,
her belly moistened with a seepage of precum as Cesare became more and more aroused.
Suddenly she was off her feet!

His powerful arms were around her, he was carrying her like a child!
She made to protest but his lips stiffled her words and when they left her own she was lying across the divan, her feet not quite touching the floor and he was kneeling between her legs, his hands caressing her thighs and staring hungrily at the Delta of Egypt.

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII - High Priestess of Ra

“hmmmmmmmmm”, The sound of pleasure escaped from by mouth as my body succumbed to the gentle, skillful seductions of this Roman, my arms reached round to the back of my head, my fingers digging into my hair and entwining themselves in it as I pressed my chest into his face, body arching and my muscle tensing. His breath hot and urgent coming in waves as his hands continued to caress and fondle my body.

My hands returned to encircle my new lovers, pulling him closer when suddenly his own hands reached round under my buttocks and he lifted me effortlessly, his lips pressing against mine stifling my surprise and any chance to complain. My legs wrapped themselves around him holding him tightly crossing my feet to lock my legs in position, I could feel his stiff shaft pressing against my stomach, hot and sticky from his arousal. My pussy tingled, glowing with it’s own heated arousal, my essence lubricating my folds and his heavy ball sack as it pressed into my mons.

He spun around carrying me hastily towards the veiled divan, the fine gossamer drapes tied to each side presenting a vaulted portal to the soft mattress beyond.

Releasing me from his grip I dropped onto the bed my hair cascading around as my head sank into the luxurious covers of the royal bed, my feet dangled over the edge parted by his body as he collapsed to his knees.

I waited, knowing he was devouring the sight of my hairless crotch with his eyes, its pouting lips glistening with my ambrosia.

”Behold the cradle of the Nile, from whence the sweet river of life, that artery that supports my great nation”, my head raised slightly to observe the man now stroking my thighs as he contemplated his desires. ”Will not mighty Caesar drink from the Spring of Isis”

I could feel his hot breath once more as his face moved closer to my pussy, I closed my eyes in expectation….

 

[ariosto]

Her long legs were smooth as alabaster columns and warm as sun drenched marble to the touch. He kissed inside her knees and slowly, one side at a time his lips grazed up the length of her thighs towards the well of souls, the sweet cleft of desire, the pearl of arousal.
He would take this woman many times tonight, with his lips and mouth, with his hands and fingers and finally with his cock which now was throbbing in anticipation as it touched the slick cool silk of the divan.

He paused to look up at her...deep almost black Roman eyes looked into her own.
"Touch yourself Egypt, open the Nile for me and let me gaze upon it."

He watched as her slender fingers, each nail a perfection, slowly sliding down and over the gentle rise of her Mons, taking the bud of her sex between them and she began a slow rubbing that began to open the hidden petals of the warm fecund delta.

Cesare began to lick her, long slow licks that took their time travelling across sensitive skin, traveling almost to the font itself.
He wanted to take her own fingers which were becoming moist with the juice of desire, in his mouth and suck them, savoring her taste.
His hands slipped between her legs and caressed them open, he looked again at her sweet rose flower now totally revealed, at the slick moist lips that her hand was caressing and then leaned forward and kissed her fingers as she worked them into herself. His tongue flicked across the nub of her clitoris and his own hands replaced hers spreading her open to allow his mouth, his eager lips to touch those that were now throbbing with arousal between her legs.

 

[Snork Maiden]

Cleopatra VII - High Priestess of Ra

The scent of citrus burning from the pomades, lightly fragranced the chamber and the cooling evening breeze tempered the warm air that had accumulated in the palace through out the day. Now with the freshness and stillness of the night as it descended across Egypt, Rome descended on the fertile lands of Egypt’s Delta.

Caesars tongue worked slowly over the folds of my sex pressing into the swollen valley towards the hooded hermit that even now peered from his hiding place to see what had disturbed and aroused the surrounding hillsides.

“Oh noble Caesar, how thou does the springs of my desire urge forth. It has been many moons since the fields of Osiris were so tended and the waters of the Nile raised to such inundation”, I said softly as he worked his tongue through my petals and downward to the source of spa.

His face moved away from my pussy as he stroked and pulled the dark lips that had unfurled gently apart to gaze on my glistening pink flower. My hand reached between my legs, my fingers pressing into the soft smooth flesh pulling back towards my bud. I could feel the heat of my own slipperiness, beads of creamy juice oozing from the entrance of my feminine tube and trickling slowly down between the cheeks of my buttocks.

Pressing my fingertips against my hardening clit I gently massaged it against my pubic bone bringing familiar pleasurable sensations. I continued to massage it gently my fingers crossing to maximize my pressure of the tiny button.

Caesar licked his lips, anticipating a revisit to the rich feeding grounds of my aroused mound, his tongue snaking into the entrance of my vagina as my legs parted wider still. His face pressed hard against my crotch as his tongue curled and flicked at the soft flesh of my pussy. His nose flared as he struggled to breathe, my fingers increasing their circular administrations on my clit as I started to massage my breasts with my free hand.

Caesar’s hands curled over and around my thighs holding me to his hungry mouth as he drank deeply, the nectar from my flower as a butterfly would a lotus. My own actions increasing their pace as my first orgasm built, my muscles tensed and my crotch ground into his face through the actions of my hip gyrations.

“oooooooooooh Caesar, can thou not deny, there is not a country in the world that can surpass the sweetness of Egypt”

My hand ceased its stimulation of my bud as I used both my hands to tug and tease my nipples. Caesar’s own hand now replacing mine as he massaged my swollen bud, capturing it between his thumb and finger and squeezing it gently.

My body arched as the first wave of pleasure ripped through my body and I cried out in pleasure as he once more withdrew his mouth from my pussy and replaced it with two fingers, quickly screwing them into me, twisting and bending them in the wetness of my hot vagina. I could not see, for my eyes were blinded with pleasure, but I was certain of a smile of satisfaction had spread across his face.

Paralysed with lust and the sensations of my orgasm, succumbed to the instinctive actions of my body, I sort out further stimulation. My pussy gripped at his fingers and I squirmed as his hand twisted and moved between my legs, ”Oh yes, Oh Yes OH YESSSS”, I moaned as I thrashed about impaled by his digits, my pussy flooding with my excitement, its musky scent filling the room and blending with the of the citrus incense.
http://emuseum.mnsu.edu/prehistory/egypt/images/more_images/new_images/girl1.gif

 

[ariosto]

OOC...WOW! Kleo no wonder the world was at your feet, at least the male part!



IC;


Roman fingers, his fingers, Ceasar's fingers probe the tightening tunnel of Egypt's dark mystery...The tips of them rub and caress, caress and rub, the velvet walls of her passage, they seek and find the centers of arousal...his thumb presses and moves the aching pearl in quickening ovals...

Another hand, strong and rough slides along the taught skin of her belly and cups her high rose peaked breasts...
She arches up...giving herself up to his invasion...feels the stubble on his cheeks against her warm skin. He looks into her Black deep eyes and slowly rubs his jaw across the swell of her shaven mound.
Egypt's hands enclose his, pressing it tight against her. Her hard nipple etches itself against his palm.

Cleopatra's breath is fast...she moans in pleasure within herself.
She wants the Roman inside her...she wants...

Rubbing, rubbing, fingers rubbing the tormented nexus within her. She squeezes hard and he's surprised at the strength of her inner muscles... His hand can hardly move!
His cock throbs...hard and ready.

*Not yet...not yet...*

Fingers twist together, an arrow point, and Ceasar rams them hard into her vagina.
She cries out in spite of herself and then his mouth is on her clitoris, sucking it in, raking his tongue across it...fast, faster...
Cleopatra grabs his shaggy head and pulls him down.
His fingers...HIS Fingers...ALIVE inside her!!

*OH GODS...OH GODDDDDDDDDDDDDDDSSS!*

She's cumming, he feels the gush of warm sweet oil on his invading digits but he doesn't stop...In and out...In and Out!
Harder...Faster...HARDER!...FASTER!
She rocks in fevered abandon, impaled like a butterfly on his hand...

He licks warm spend from her thighs, from the very lips of her cunt, his tongue dips in to claim the last nectre from her sex.
He slides slowly up her body and she feels finally the hot point of his spear poised at her open gate.

"Now Egypt...We shall be one."

 

[Snork Maiden]

I laid exhausted on the bed, my body perspired lightly from the intenseness and exertions of my orgasms, my chest rose and fell slowly and deeply as I caught my breath, my eyes closed as I floated in a state of sweet oblivion.
Caesar pulled himself up along side me, pulling the hair from my face and gazing down at me, his strong body pressed against my breasts crushing them gently his thighs press tight against my own and his manhood resting on my hip pointing slightly upwards. I could feel its heat against the smoothness of my skin.

Slowly my hand reached down to touch this Roman, running my finger down his side slowly, using my well manicured nails with the lightest of pressure, tracing the contours of his ribs, his side… down around his upper leg and then slowly back up along the length of his shaft. He responded with a violent jerk as my finger tip first grazed over the base of his stem, my finger slowly curled around it. ”Oh my it’s huge” I thought to myself as I struggled to touch my thumb and index fingertip together gripping him. The heat of his arousal seeped into my palm and I could feel the pulse as it swelled to my grasp its purple crown shining as the skin stretched tight.

I opened my eyes, savoring the feeling of this mans cock in my hand, ”Well Caesar, it would seem I have Rome in the palm of my hand” Gently I pulled on Caesar’s hard cock, feeling the rippled texture of it turgidity as the skin yield to my movements. I raised my head to see the object that distracted me so, his foreskin crumpled around the head as I pulled up on it almost concealing the plum that peered from my grip, a bead of clear precum wept from the tiny slit. I licked my lips, moistening then with saliva and smiled as I pulled back allowing his plum to be revealed once more.

I pushed him onto his back suddenly, and pounced on top of him grinning pressing my wet pussy down on his strong stomach muscles and sliding back and forward stimulating my clit as I pressed it against his body my movement aided by my own lubrication and the sweat from his body. I ground my hips as I moved in a mock screwing action and rubbed his fur covered chest. Feeling the strong muscles of his shoulders and neck, sliding back on his body, I lowered my face to his pressing my lips to his own seeking out his tongue.