Christ Son of Man - The Voyage to Araboth II

By Anderson

It is 2373 and Anafiel Stewart, the young captain of the Starship Covenant-666, is racing into the far reaches of the galaxy on a mission he knows very little about. As the voyage unfolds, he is faced with a great battle between good and evil and the knowledge that the fate of the Covenant-666 and its crew will determine the destiny of Man. Examine our beliefs. Explore our galaxy. Sail into the greatest of odysseys.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Nov 29, 2013
• ISBN: 9789769556119

Book preview

Notes.

THE MAIN OFFICERS

Admiral Akatriel Yah Yehod Sebaoth. Middle aged. Male.

Captain Anafiel Stewart. Age 29. Male.

Commander Astaroth Goff. Number One. Age 42. Male.

Lieutenant Commander Gabriel Sho. Second to the Captain. Head

of Essential and Classified Products. Age 32. Female.

Lieutenant Commander Raphael Zech. Chief Engineer. Age 36.

Male.

Lieutenant Jophiel Mena. Chief Security Officer. Age 31.

Female.

Lieutenant Zadkiel Smith. Science Officer. Age 27. Male.

Lieutenant Dr. Chamuel Wong K. Chief Medical Officer. Age 47.

Male.

Lieutenant Uriel Banderonika. Counselor. Age 26. Male.

Lieutenant Forcas Rakshasa. Environmental Systems Officer.

Age 25. Male.

DEPARTMENTS

Note: All officers, other than the main officers whose ages are listed, are young adults between ages nineteen and twenty-five.

OPS:

Commander Gabriel Sho.

Lieutenant (JG) Thronus. Male.

Ensign Tehom. Female.

Cadet Shoel. Male.

CONN:

Lieutenant Haseha. Male.

Lieutenant (JG) Amarzyon. Female.

Ensign Schawayt. Male.

ENGINEERING:

Chief Engineer Zech.

Lieutenant Chuscha. Female.

Lieutenant (JG) Zawar. Male.

Ensign Yahel. Male.

SECURITY:

Lieutenant Jophiel Mena

Lieutenant Chayo. Female.

Lieutenant (JG) Phanuel. Male.

Ensign Israel. Female.

SCIENCE:

Lieutenant Zadkiel Smith.

Lieutenant (JG) Adoyahel. Male.

Ensign Schimuel. Female.

Ensign Achusaton. Male.

MEDICAL:

Lieutenant Dr. Chamuel Wong K.

Lieutenant Uriel Banderonika.

Lieutenant Dr. Samael Lochem. Male. Age 30.

Lieutenant Nurse Zebul. Female

Lieutenant Nurse Sabath. Female

COMMUNICATIONS:

Lieutenant Schaddyl. Female.

Lieutenant (JG) Chamyel. Male.

Ensign Parymel. Female.

ENVIRONMENTAL:

Lieutenant Forcas Rakshasa.

SERVICES:

Chief Cook: Crewman Urzla. Female. Age 30.

Assistant to the Chief Cook: Crewman Zlar. Male. Age 26.

Chief Bartender: Crewman Larzod. Male. Age 35.

Assistant to the Chief Bartender: Crewman Arzal Joseph. Male.

Age 32.

THE HAND OF GOD

I pray The Hand of God protect you

That you may journey home to me;

I pray The Hand of God to keep you

Safe from the dangers that may be;

For, I will always love you.

As I look to the Heavens at night

I know that far in the deepness of space,

Where suns are born and galaxies collide

You travel not alone, for though I'm not with you,

My spirit reaches out

And our souls meet in The Hand of God.

I know that God will shelter you,

As you boldly go to distant realms,

New stars, new worlds, of God’s tomorrow.

Safely sail that you return to me,

For I will always love you.

And though I do not see your distant light,

Nor know what strange sights you behold

On that dark sea where hidden dangers wait,

I dream of you beside me.

A voyage takes you far from me,

Beyond the deep where darken dangers dwell.

Suns blaze as suns die,

Planets form and comets pass bye,

Rainbows reach from the depths of space,

I pray The Hand of God

Will guide your tasks and make you safe;

What dangers there I cannot tell,

The Hand of God will guide you well.

And should all be lost,

The voyage wrecked without a shore,

Gone the forlorn hope,

The Hand of God will come for you,

To comfort and to love,

The Hand of God will bring you home,

And I will always love you.

I'll close my eyes, be there beside you,

For I will always love you.

PROLOGUE I

EARTH IN THE MIDYEAR OF 2372 C.E.

RISA

Anafiel moved his eyelids very slowly. The sunlight from the large windows exploded into his head and his trapped brain responded violently. He slammed his eyelids shut. Where the fuck am I? he asked, softly. He tried to move his head, but detonations once again tortured his senses. He opened his eyes painfully and slowly. Everything was green. He turned slowly and looked at the naked woman lying partly across him on the bed. She too seemed green. Anafiel brought his hands to his head, gave a slight moan and the woman moved briefly in her sleep. He dragged himself up and tried to remove the woman’s legs that lay across his body. They were too heavy, not really heavy, just too heavy for him that morning. He inched his legs from under her, one at a time, then dropped them over the side of the bed, again one at a time. He once more held his head, not wanting to guess how he looked. He swallowed. Fuck! My mouth is horribly foul. He sighed loudly. Oh! My fucking head hurts, he whispered. He turned and looked at the woman. Who the fuck are you? He shook his head and was immediately sorry he had done it, enduring the consequential upheaval in his brain. I wake up naked in a strange bed with a naked woman I don't know and I can't remember anything. That’s no fucking good. Anafiel tried to stand, but his head began sailing in ever constricting orbits. He bent forward, getting up gradually, slowly extending his legs.

His clothes were scattered on the floor and between them was the woman’s uniform. Oh fuck! he grimaced, shaking his head, enduring the erupting pain. She’s a fucking officer. He gathered his civilian clothes and threw them on the bed. Anafiel had not worn his uniform as he was on leave and badly wanted to escape the protocols demanded by the uniform. He moved sluggishly towards the shower which stood in a small garden. Why did I have to fuck an officer? he muttered. They always think you owe them dinner ... or something. He closed his eyes. Shower. Very cold. Icy water poured over his body from the showerhead and from small fountains that were placed amongst the flowering plants. He felt his skin rise in response to the cold water. Add cleansing oils, he said and fine frangipani scented pink bubbles immediately mixed in with the water.

Would you like me to rub you down? the woman asked, her lips brushing against his ear as she shared the shower garden with him.

Anafiel opened his eyes, looking at the woman. You don't seem to be as incapacitated as I am. The woman smiled, the bubbly water falling against her face, highlighting her deep emerald eyes. The woman smiled again. What’s your name? asked Anafiel.

The woman continued to smile and moved her lips to his neck whispering, I definitely don't want dinner.

Anafiel closed his eyes. I am no fucking good for anything this morning, he said, placing his head in the full spray of the showerhead.

Oh my, she murmured, her body fully pressed against his. It was the same last night. Not good for anything.

Anafiel opened his eyes. And what do you mean? He closed his eyes again.

Well, she smiled. Last night gave us nothing worth talking about and, certainly, nothing to remember.

I was fucking drunk. Anafiel closed his eyes more tightly. What’s your name?

How could you forget? You were saying it over and over and over last night, she added slowly and softly. Actually, you are quite the orator.

As I said before, I was fucking drunk.

Yes! You were.

Oh my head, grumbled Anafiel, holding his head with both hands.

Let’s get rid of that headache, she said, placing her tongue in his ear. Anafiel’s body bristled. The woman moved her hands slowly over his chest. Are the goose bumps from the icy water?

Despite his spent state, Anafiel felt himself beginning to respond and his hands fell from his head to her body. Fuck no.

That’s better, she said, smiling, her green eyes brilliant. She led him to the bed and he sat. She pushed him slowly backwards and brought up his legs. The woman crossed his body placing herself over his aroused groin.

By the way, where the fuck am I? asked Anafiel.

Anafiel opened his eyes and stared at the light colored ceiling. The room was almost dark. He reached over with his right arm to feel for the woman, but she was not there. He sat up quickly, looking about the room. His head was much better. His clothes again lay scattered on the floor, but the woman’s uniform was gone. He looked at the window then closed his eyes once more. It must be getting quite late in the day and I have that fucking meeting tonight. A fucking meeting even though I am on vacation. He shook his head. And with an admiral. Why would I have a meeting with an admiral? His stomach growled and he patted his abdomen saying, Hungry after a good day’s work? He smiled. The headache was gone, but the pangs of hunger were persistent as he had not eaten since the night before. He threw himself back on the bed, knowing that he could sleep some more. After a few minutes, however, he swung his legs off the bed, sat up and walked over to the shower garden. Shower. Cold. Cleansing oils unscented. Massage.

The cold water was again good. He kept his eyes closed as the stream massaged his body making him begin to feel like his usual self. Dry. Slightly warm. Slowly. The water streams stopped and warm air blew gently over him. He was totally relaxed, but, suddenly, the feeling began to wane. He frowned. He opened his eyes and immediately reached for his phaser¹, but felt only his naked skin.

The person sitting on the edge of the bed raised his eyebrows. Are you reaching for your weapon, Anafiel? He elevated his eyebrows again.

Who the fuck are you and what are you doing in my room? And you are naked? Be calm. I can handle this.

I have a sword. The stranger indicated to a long intimidating sword that lay unsheathed across his legs. At times, I have a shield, a belt, pauldrons, greaves, other adornments of war. That is all I require, Anafiel. Cloths are one of the unfortunate trappings of the mind of Man. But look at yourself. Unlike me, you are the one absolutely naked. Not even a sword.

I am having a well needed shower. But you did not answer my question. Who the fuck are you, and how do you know my name? Stay calm. And what the fuck are you doing in my room? Anafiel’s eyes flickered about the room, quickly assessing his situation.

Who am I? You should address that question to yourself, Anafiel, for it is you who are unaware of who you are. I suppose it is because you are enjoying being Man too much. The humanoid stood up and looked deeply at Anafiel. Almost translucent wings appeared and moved slowly at his back. Anafiel’s mouth dropped open. He glanced about the room again, anxiety beginning to build. Do not fear me, Anafiel. You need no weapon. I am your friend. I have simply come to tell you, it is almost time."

Anafiel shook his head, knowing he could not still be drunk, wondering if he, unknowingly, had been given some kind of delayed reacting hallucinogen at one of the bars he had caroused in the night before. What the fuck are you talking about . . . and who are you?

Things will begin to happen that you will not fully understand. Follow the instructions you receive. You will know what you are to know when you are to know. You must not hesitate. You must not fail.

Who the . . . The being slowly disappeared and the room was suddenly cold; yet, Anafiel sweated. He was unraveled. I had better get out of here. I'll deal with this later. He stepped hurriedly from the shower garden and picked up his cloths. He smelled them. They were stale and somewhat offensive; however, he had no choice but to wear them until he arrived back at his hotel. He dressed hurriedly and stepped cautiously out of the room. The door way led directly in to a foyer that led to the outside. In the middle of the foyer was a tall wooden carving of the Horga'hn² being embraced by a naked man and a woman. All the furniture carried carvings of the Horga'hn, even the doors and windows. A pathway led from the wide doorway into a garden then on to the main thoroughfare where he could take a shuttlecraft or a replica of an ancient car or bus. The garden, beautiful in the waning evening sunlight, contained exotic flowering plants of which many secreted strong sexual pheromones. Numerous statues of the Horga'hn made from rare crystals and wood adorned the garden. A female employee smiled at him from behind her pink marble desk. A Horga'hn statuette of gold hung from each ear and another, hanging from a crystal chain, lay between her breasts. Her see-through dress was adorned with filaments of gold that matched her short hair. She wore nothing beneath the dress. Anafiel walked over to her, looking at her almost purple eyes, very aware that his interest therein was being aroused. Immediately, all thoughts of the humanoid with wings were put aside.

I have a note for you, Sir, she said, and gave him a rose colored paper. She smiled.

How much, Anafiel asked.

Your lady has settled the account.

Anafiel frowned then looked at the note. Buy me dinner sometime, it read.

He looked back at the girl and smiled. Pity . . . but I got to go to meet an Admiral.

THE ARK OF THE COVENANT

There she is, gentlemen . . . lady, advised Chief Engineer, Lieutenant Commander Raphael Zech. The three officers stood on the almost barren mount overlooking the city of Axum. An occasional acacia or giant lobelia were the only trees that broke the monotony of the arid ground.

Are we sure it’s there, Sir? asked Lieutenant Chuscha.

No, replied the Chief. We only know that it is supposed to be there.

It’s strange. Most everything is in decay, damaged, or destroyed. Yet, the target, the building, is intact and seems well preserved. Huh! Why is that, Chief? asked Ensign Yahel.

Well, perhaps even in high places like Sol Government, Man can be humane . . . sometimes. Who knows? An official may have respected the legend or was afraid of it; or, it may just be that the Ethiopians were so protective of the site and so private about what they held there that Sol decided to leave them alone. Certain historical notes state that hundreds of believers surrounded the site when Sol sent its warriors to destroy it. Sol’s only option would have been to destroy the site, kill everybody there; even for Sol that would not have been a wise move. With thanks from us all, somebody realized that. To this day, the site is ignored by Sol and there actually is a descendant of the original people who looks after the site. The group remained quiet as a warm breeze fell across them. That is the Treasury. Sol did destroy the two nearby churches. Both were named St. Mary of Zion, one built before the other. Don't ask me why both had the same name.

It seems that, from time to time, Sol did not raze sites they considered archaeologically significant, suggested Chuscha. Their choices don't seem to follow any clear rational, however.

Probably the hierarchy’s personal preferences or, maybe it was left up to the bloke firing the sling shot, chuckled the Chief. Well, let’s see if we can get into the site without incident. Phasers on light stun, but pocketed. No need to hold onto them at this time.

Oh boy! Looks like a dead town, murmured Yahel.

Nevertheless, said the Chief, Be vigilant. But now, a little history you are not supposed to really know about.

Oh boy! sighed Yahel, jokingly. Intrigue.

Chief. Sol Command training always insists that a warrior knows as much as possible about any site approached. Yet, it appears we are not supposed to know much about this one, commented Chuscha.

Yes! I'm afraid so, stated the Chief. All part of our hidden history. All part of this operation. He was silent for a moment. Axum once blossomed because of its religious and trade significance. It was the first Christian kingdom in the known world of the fourth century. That’s some time ago.

I say, agreed Chuscha. Christian. Huh!

It was a strategic city because it was situated on the caravan trade routes to Arabia, Nubia, and Egypt. Axum traded as far away as Greece, Rome, and Constantinople. In the not too distant past, Axum continued to survive because of its religious significance and the thousands and thousands of the faithful that visited. Once religion was taken away by Sol, after World War Three, the people moved away to other cities where life’s requirements were more easily met and, perhaps, where clandestine religion could be more easily practiced. This may have been a good thing because by moving away, less attention focused on Axum, reducing the likelihood that Sol would still try to destroy the site. That was many, many years ago; and it’s still here . . . and we are about to take something special from this ancient city.

Doesn't that make you feel like a villain? Sir! remarked Chuscha.

Oh boy! Oh boy! A dispute arising. Yahel laughed quietly. Villains. No, we're not. We'll hide behind following orders. He chuckled. I did read the brief, but it was so sketchy. It was obvious we were not meant to know much. Almost nothing. Anyway, Chief. Go ahead, Sir. Hearing the story from you is just a whole lot better.

Oh boy! moaned Chuscha, mocking him. "Trying to become a favorite, Ensign Yahel?'

Always, he responded, laughing as quietly as he could.

The officers edged down the fairly level mount, occasionally stumbling on a rock covered with rust lichens, or having a foot caught in a small crevice. It was 0300 hours. The near full moon was bright in the cloudless sky and only the brightest of stars, the occasional planet, and orbiting man made satellites were visible. The team worked their way carefully, heading towards a dirt road at the bottom of the incline.

Weird isn't it. The brief says that people still live here. Yet, there’s no sign of any activity, observed Yahel.

It’s after midnight, pointed out Chuscha. Generally, people are sleep even before midnight. Not everyone is like you, Ensign, partying until Sol comes up; and there are signs of habitation. Look over there towards your left and those ruins. Look at the desert rose and wild rose plants, and the flowering bush. They're obviously still being cared for; and they're planted in a pattern. I don't think nature did that.

You even know the names of the plants, Lieutenant? asked Yahel, sounding amazed.

I do the homework required, Ensign.

Sir! But on the other issue of awaiting Sol’s arrival in the early morn, we male ensigns and cadets just like to hang out. Interesting things happen when you're out there late at night going into dawn. Yahel chuckled.

Chuscha ignored the comment and the chuckle. As I was saying, I do my homework. I studied the information given out at the briefing and did research, as necessary, Ensign. Did you? Yahel kicked a stone. Why do you think they give out the information? You were supposed to study and commit the information to memory, then destroy the handout. Every bit of information about a mission could be important. After studying the brief, I researched data on the area, as you should have done; hence, my knowledge of the region. The handouts and briefs will not provide you with everything you need to know."

I did read the brief, but, as I said before, it was so sketchy there was very little to commit to memory. As I looked at the content, I concluded that if Sol Command wanted us to have additional information, they would have provided it. I did destroy all of it though. I even vaporized it. Almost burned down my quarters. Yahel grinned. Chuscha shook her head.

They continued downhill and even though the night was generally cool, the dusty smell of the largely barren terrain was carried on a warm wind.

Chief. You mentioned that there was a legend. That was not in the briefing, grunted Yahel.

No it wasn't and you'd have to be very very nosey, and daring, to know where to look for any information on the legend. The Chief walked a few more steps. It is said that around 1050 BCE, the Philistines Nation defeated the Israelites and took a sacred artifact from them. Incidentally, this is the same one we are going to remove, if it’s there. The sacred artifact was placed in the Philistines own temple and in front of their god, Dagon. Later, this idol was found fallen on its face. The Philistines replaced the statue upright, but, the next day, it was found with its head and hands cut off. At that same time, the Philistines began suffering from a plague of hemorrhoids .

Hemorrhoids? chuckled Yahel. How can there be a plague of hemorrhoids? Someone had a sense of humor.

The Philistines took the sacred artifact to two other cities. Wherever they went, the plague affected them.

Yahel began laughing. Oh boy! Can you imagine a whole city with everyone having hemorrhoids? So the sacred artifact was literally becoming a pain in the ass? he commented, quite amused.

Ensign! remarked Chuscha, sternly. We're talking of a sacred artifact.

Yahel lifted his shoulders and frowned. Sorry Lieutenant. But what did I do? I know nothing of things sacred. That is a world that does not exist anymore. I'm puzzled by your reaction, Lieutenant. Sir!

It’s okay, Ensign, intervened the Chief. You will know what you are to know when you are to know. But be careful, Ensign. The legend does also say that any unholy person who approaches the sacred artifact will be struck dead by lightening emitted from it. Yahel turned away and rolled his eyes. Let me continue the story. The Philistines decided to return the sacred artifact to the Israelites along with many expensive gifts. It seems that they were very happy to get rid of it.

Did the plaque return?

No, Ensign. Nor did the statue of Dagon fall again. What’s also perplexing is that after 600 BCE there has been no mention of the sacred artifact. It just seems to have disappeared. Yet, certain historical notes indicate that it has been guarded in Ethiopia for over a thousand years.

And we are going to steal . . . remove it. Yahel remained quiet for a short while. What am I getting into? Sacred? He scratched his head. Did Sol really approve this mission? There was no reply. Oh boy! He shrugged his shoulders and grimaced. I suppose I will know what I am to know when I am to know. The Chief and Chuscha turned together and looked at him. What? questioned Yahel. Sirs.

Brilliant, responded Chuscha. You have caught on.

Yahel again remained quiet for a time then queried lightly. Chief! Do those notes . . . those certain historical notes . . . say that anyone was killed by the sacred artifact?

Avoid the sarcasm, Ensign! ordered Chuscha.

Sir!

Those notes say that Moses' nephews, Hoph-ni and Phin-e-has, sons of Aaron, were struck dead by the artifact for bringing the wrong offering.

Who’s Moses? Who’s Aaron?

Chuscha chuckled.

I don't think we can go into all that now. On our return to base, however, I can direct you to an information source, limited and clandestine. Oh, and if you're caught, the Chief told you nothing. He glanced meaningfully at Chuscha and smiled.

Could you at least tell me what it looks like and what it’s called. The briefing did not even include this basic information. Yahel looked at Chuscha. I am on the mission and for its success, I should know what we are looking for should something happen to either or both of you.

You'll know it if it’s there, Ensign. He shrugged his shoulders. It is just a box, stated the Chief.

Just a box? All this stealth for just a box. Yahel shook his head. I can't believe I'm doing this for a box.

It’s not any box. It is the Ark of the Covenant. It contains, firstly, the two tablets brought down from Mount Sinai by Moses, on which the Ten Commandments were inscribed by the finger of The Lord. It also contains Aaron’s rod and the Golden Pot of Hidden Manna. In ancient times, Moses and Aaron faced a challenge to their leadership during the Revolt of Korah. A rod from the head of each of the twelve tribes of Israel was placed before the ark, whereupon Aaron’s rod budded with shoots and blossoms reinforcing his leadership. Thus, it was kept as a sign against the rebels. Manna is a honey-like juice exuded from various trees. When the Israelites were in the wilderness, the Golden Pot miraculously provided food.

The Ark of the Covenant. What a strange name. And the stories. Not scientific. Oh boy! I have a bad feeling about this. And Chief seems to know so much.

Look to your right, Lieutenant Chuscha, directed the Chief. That is the Axum Stele. There were over one hundred of them . . . all destroyed by Sol except this one. Why this one remains? No one knows. Someone probably got tired of pressing the button or simply missed and couldn't be bothered to try again. The stelae actually predates Christianity’s arrival to Ethiopia and the Northern Stelae Field contained more than 120 stelae made of smooth grey stone, each made of a single piece of granite and they stood as high as 82 feet.

Oh boy! That’s remarkable. But how did the ancients accomplish that? asked Yahel. They couldn't have had the necessary equipment.

Well, this proves that they had the ingenuity; and, of course, common sense . . . possibly, also a lot of laborers . . . slaves.

Slaves? queried Yahel.

The Chief nodded his head then continued. One stele was actually 108 feet. They all faced south, and so they watched the sun on its daily journey across the sky. Certain historical notes suggest that the stelae were related to worship of the sun god or that ancient worshippers hoped to draw energy down from the sky through these giant monuments. The image of the stelae is similar to the Egyptian hieroglyph for sunrise, a semicircle placed over the bottom corners of a triangle. Of course, the popular local belief in more recent times was that the stelae are phallic symbols and relate to fertility and the sexual act.

Oh boy! smirked Yahel. Good old sex. Nothing better to do and the only thing that provides a good reason for doing anything.

Typical male, uttered Chuscha.

Ha! laughed Yahel. "Could never be a J'naii³."

The Chief joined in the laughter. Chuscha remained silent. Okay, officers, as we walk, a little more history. This remaining stele was the third tallest and is the Stele of King Ezana. Ezana was the first king to convert to Christianity, about 300 C.E., and he declared his entire country for Christianity after his conversion. A carving on his stele may refer to this event. There was another Axum stele that bore an especially interesting relief carving. Near its apex was a capital formed of two leaves supporting a square within a square surmounted by a triangle. This could have been the earliest-ever image of the Ark of the Covenant in Ethiopian art. Of course, it’s all gone.

They had reached the road. The Chief hit his insignia communicator. Lieutenant Zawar!

Absolutely no activity, Chief.

Keep scanning.

Chief!

They continued alone, walking southwestward for about halfmile where the road branched. The fork, well illuminated by the bright moon, enclosed an area of red hot poker shrubs then a wooded area of large acacia trees and occasional flowering flame trees amongst which was the designated site. They took the road to the left.

Chief! I'm interested to know more about these certain historical notes. You're using terms, the significance of which I'm unacquainted with. Christianity is one of them. Are these notes available to anyone and if not, why?

The Chief smiled. I'll tell you this, Ensign, they are not readily available. I will also remind you that you will know what you are to know when you are to know.

That’s becoming a cliché, Chief.

Ensign! scolded Chuscha, again sternly.

It’s okay, Lieutenant. We are being a little unfair to Ensign Yahel. The chief chuckled loudly. After all, he may be facing a court-martial for his actions tonight. Perhaps we should let him know a little more about what is happening. The Chief laughed. But would you believe it, Ensign?"

He has to remember that he takes orders, at times, without explanations.

Lieutenant Chuscha is also correct. Okay, Ensign?

Chief! But if I am given an order in direct contravention to Sol Command’s regulations, I have the right to refuse to comply. Now, the matter of a possible court martial has been broached. Yahel kicked another stone. Sir!

They were quiet for a few moments then the Chief merely continued. To the southwest of the city is the remains of the palace of the Queen of Sheba. The Ethiopians called her Makeda. There’s a story about her too, Ensign.

Yahel shrugged his shoulders. Might as well, Chief. Does it have anything to do with the box?

It does, Ensign. It’s all part of the legends of this great historical city that now lies mostly in ruins, thanks to Sol . . . or to religion, as Sol would have it. King Solomon is said to have seduced the Queen of Sheba taking her tenderest part.

Oh boy! Sexy time again.

Chuscha frowned then smiled. Well, at least that has perked you up.

Solomon sired her son, Menelik I, who became the first Emperor of Ethiopia. Sheba had become Queen at the age of fifteen when her father died in 1005 BCE. Contradictory legends refer to her as ruling for forty years and reigning as a virgin queen for six years. In most accounts, she never married.

I suppose this legend is also based on certain historical notes?

Of course, Ensign. The chief lifted his eyebrows. The story given in the Kebra Negast is that King Solomon invited the Queen of Sheba to a banquet, serving spicy food to induce her thirst, and inviting her to stay in his palace overnight. The Queen asked him to swear that he would not take her by force. He accepted upon the condition that she, in turn, would not take anything of value from his house without his permission. The Queen assured that she would not, slightly offended by the implication that she, a rich and powerful monarch, would engage in stealing. However, as she woke up in the middle of the night, she was very thirsty due to the spicy food she had eaten. Just as she reached for a jar of water placed close to her bed, King Solomon appeared, warning her that she was breaking her oath, water being the most valuable of all material possessions in the land. She persisted and quenched her thirst, setting the king free from his promise and they spent the night together and Menelik I was the result.

Oh boy! Doesn't it always come down to getting in bed with someone. Yahel laughed. That’s why I stay out late late at night, Lieutenant.

Don't want to know, stated Chuscha.

Yahel laughed again. So she was a virgin until King Solomon tricked her? Oh boy! Solomon, you are my hero. He did a little gig, kicking up more stones. But Chief, what on Earth is the Kebra Nagast?

The Kebra Nagast, or the Book of the Glory of Kings, is an account written about the origins of the Solomonic line of the Emperors of Ethiopia. The text, should it still exist, would be well over a thousand years old. Not only does it contain an account of how the Queen of Sheba met Solomon, and how the Ark of the Covenant came to Ethiopia with Menelik I, but it contains an account of the conversion of the Ethiopians from the worship of the sun, moon, and stars to that of the Lord God of Israel".

Well, looking at the desert moon tonight makes me easily understand why primitives would worship it. What do you think, Lieutenant? Sir? Let’s watch this desert moon together and see if it provokes the same reactions in both of us. This observation could come to a rather pleasant conclusion. Chuscha looked at Yahel and shook her head. The Chief smiled. Yahel shook his shoulders and continued. Well, Man has come a long way, it seems, from worshiping the sun, moon, and stars. We now travel there. Yahel was again quiet. Lord God of Israel. But Chief, I still do not know the real reason for being here? Religion and anything to do with religion is banned by the Sol Government. What am I getting myself into, Chief? I do deserve to know.

You must trust me. You will know ...

Yes! Yes! Yes! Sir! Oh boy! exclaimed Yahel, shaking his head. And we don't even know if the box exists today.

I will tell you one thing, Ensign. You are one of the chosen few. Yahel frowned deeply. Chuscha cleared her throat. The Chief hit his insignia communicator.

Absolutely nothing, answered Zawar. I'm not even picking up the guards that normally surround the site. The whole area is clean, Chief. I'm monitoring continuously.

Okay, Lieutenant.

Strange, said Yahel, placing his hand on his phaser. The warm desert dust in a gust of sultry breeze tickled his nose.

Yes, it is strange. I sense their absence It’s as if they want us to enter uncontested. Why, Chief? asked Chuscha.

I don't know, Lieutenant. But if I don't have to use my phaser to get the mission accomplished, that would be great.

Maybe they will allow us to get in, but not come out. They have guarded this sacred artifact for hundreds of years even in the face of great adversity, added Chuscha.

I have been in similar situations where once I got in, she wouldn't allow me to come out.

Keep alert, Ensign Yahel. We approach the site. Unpocket phasers. Focus on the mission.

Chief!

The group inched along in single file on the extreme right of the road and left of the site. They were adjacent to a copse of tall acacias and could no longer see the site. On the left were the remains of a sector of the original town of Axum, overgrown in parts by desert rose and wild rose bushes, their red, pink, and white flowers visible in the moon light. Beyond was the barren hills spotted with giant lobelia, an occasional acacia or a clump of red hot pokers.

We'll go through the trees, instructed the Chief. Put on your goggles. Have phasers at ready. Be quiet."

The canopy was thick and only an occasional moon beam broke through. The undergrowth was sparse, the only impediments to their progress being the trunks of the trees. The Chief hit his insignia communicator again.

Just the same, Chief.

The wood was no more than a quarter mile in width and as they stepped from it, they all drew in their breaths. Beyond a neglected courtyard, brilliant in the moon light was the Treasury. It was not a large building, probable thirty by thirty feet or a little more. The building was intact and fenced by tall red iron grill, having survived warfare and hate for hundreds of years. A stone pathway led from the closed iron gate to long steps that led up to the building itself. A bright red curtain covered the doorway. There were two large windows on either side, blue and green in color. Above the doorway was a cross and above that a circular area that could be a skylight. On the roof, a cross stood on top a small dome. The wall of the building was decorated, but they were unable to see the intricacies of the decor. The iron gate swung open and the curtain at the doorway of the building was immediately pulled aside. Someone stepped out and the curtain closed behind him.

A single person at the door of the building, Chief. I couldn't see him before. As a matter of fact, I cannot see anything in the building. There must be some kind of anti-scanning device inside. I cannot guarantee that there are no hostiles there, informed Zawar.

The elderly monk looked directly at them He was racial gene pool Negroid⁴, wrapped in a bright yellow robe and wore a black Coptic⁵ deacon hat. With his right hand, he gesticulated towards the door.

"A shuttlecraft has decloaked⁶ in the area of the Palace of the Queen of Sheba. It carries arsenal, but is not armed at the moment. It is hovering. No identifying signatures," informed Zawar.

If it approaches, shoot it out of the sky.

Affirmative, Chief.

Oh boy! grumbled a worried Yahel, scratching his neck.

The team proceeded along the pathway slowly and ascended the steps. I am Chief Zech of Sol Fleet.

I know, answered the monk. Please do what you have to do. Tears streamed continuously from his eyes. I cannot help you. I will pray for you, however, and may you not be punished.

Punished? What is he talking about? whispered Yahel.

Quiet! ordered Chuscha.

And when you go in, kneel or you will die. He started pulling his left hand from under the yellow cloak and Yahel instinctively raised his phaser.

This is Holy ground, son. Your armaments are not needed here. Chief Zech. I have something else for you, other than what you came for. It may help you win the battle that is now beginning. Yahel frowned. Chuscha did not respond.

Thank you, said the Chief, taking the small ornate box being offered.

Should we examine it? asked Yahel.

That won't be necessary, replied the Chief. He nodded to the monastic.

Kneel, the monk reminded them. If you don't, you will be incinerated.

Oh boy!

The Chief pulled aside the curtain and they stepped in. Torches provided a subdued light, adding to the feeling of apprehension and wonder.

"Ahf-Tsu Loches!⁷ remarked the Chief, as he started to kneel. Chuscha and Yahel quickly followed. It is here."

The Ark of the Covenant stood in the middle of the room. It was a chest, measuring two cubits⁸ and a half in length, a cubit and a half in breadth, and a cubit and a half in height. It was made of setim wood, an incorruptible acacia, and overlaid with the purest gold; a golden crown or rim ran around it. At the four corners, four golden rings had been cast and through them passed two bars of setim wood overlaid with gold. The cover of the Ark was also of the purest gold. Upon it were two cherubim of beaten gold, looking towards each other and spreading their wings so that both sides of the cover were overspread.

Look at all these treasures, exclaimed an amazed Yahel. Ancient manuscripts. Paintings. Crowns of Ethiopian kings . . . I believe. Silver and jeweled crosses.

We are here only for the Ark, affirmed the Chief. Look at it, Yahel. Chuscha. The Ark is one of Earth’s greatest treasures. Is that not enough? The other treasures are meaningless as compared to the Ark. The Chief hit his insignia communicator. Come for us, Lieutenant.

On our way, Chief, responded Zawar. The visitor remains unarmed and stationary.

Are we going to check if the other stuff is inside? asked Yahel.

No Ensign. We do not open the Ark.

Can we get up now? My knees are not used to hard floors. Beds, yes. And large cushions ...

No, hissed Chuscha. And shut up. That’s an order.

Within two minutes, eight Sol warriors appeared at the door. They knelt and then with gloved hands picked up the Ark of the Covenant by the two bars of setim. The Chief got up and the others followed him outside towards the waiting shuttlecraft. The monk was nowhere to be seen. They entered the shuttlecraft, secured the Ark and took off to the east.

The unidentified shuttle is not in pursuit, Chief, noted Zawar. It’s speeding off to the northwest.

Good, murmured the Chief. We're being monitored. The Chief closed his eyes. I wonder by whom.

Ahf-Tsu Loches! exclaimed Yahel. The Chief turned and glared at him. Would you tell me what that means? Sir!

THE LANCE OF LONGINUS - THE SPEAR OF DESTINY.

Whoever holds the spear has the power to control the world.

It was midnight. The moon and stars were not visible, however, as heavy clouds covered the city of Jerusalem. A warm wind blew across the hill below causing dust devils to appear and disappear.

It’s too quiet, commented young Ensign Israel.

That’s the way it should be, Ensign Israel, said Lieutenant Jophiel Mena. We don't need any action tonight. Jophiel shook her head and murmured. This whole thing. I can't believe it’s happening.

What’s happening, Lieutenant? We haven't been told anything about this mission except that it’s highly classified.

Monitor the scanner, Ensign.

Sir!

Lieutenant Chayo was flying the cloaked shuttlecraft almost silently about 200 feet above the Derekh Ha'apifyor. Have either of you been here before? asked Jophiel.

No, Sir, answered both Israel and Chayo.

Welcome to Har Tsion, also known as Mount Zion.

Sorry. Don't know anything about it, responded Chayo.

The road we are flying over is still known in certain discrete circles as the Pope’s Way. It was named in honor of the historic visit to Jerusalem of Pope Paul IV in 1964, 408 years ago, apprised Jophiel. Before World War III, of course.

No wonder I don't know anything about it, reacted Chayo, jokingly.

There are two very important sites on Har Tsion. They are the Tomb of David and the Room of the Last Supper. I don't suppose you know anything about those, also? The two officers shook their heads. You probably wouldn't unless you acquainted yourself with The Holy Bible behind closed doors. The two officers stared at Jophiel.

The Holy Bible? they queried.

Isn't that book banned? asked Chayo.

Jophiel ignored the query. What are you seeing, Ensign?

There’s nothing there, Lieutenant.

There’s nothing on the surface, Ensign Israel, because it was all destroyed by Sol Government after World War Three. The religious were blamed for the war and the Sol Government that rose from the ashes of that terrible war decided that the world would be a better place without organized religion. It was thus mandated that an individual could only practice religion privately; however, as time went on, Sol continued its pressure and religion disappeared from the world except in very small, deep, and discrete circles.

This is all new to me. Completely new, commented Chayo. She hesitated a little then added, I'm a little uncomfortable with the mission.

It’s sanctioned, Lieutenant.

I won't ask by whom, Sir.

Jophiel smiled, then continued. The Holy Bible, it’s very old. Let’s just refer to it as The Book. For those of us who know about The Holy Bible, in today’s Earth it’s best to simply call it The Book. That fact that you know nothing of it shows how effective Sol’s campaign has been and still is. Many times, in order to see the truth, Lieutenant, one has to look beneath what one sees on the surface. Scan below the surface of the hill, Ensign. Look for a vault."

What’s the chances of finding an undamaged vault here? Chayo was staring at her console. Everything here is leveled."

The vault was placed there after the desecration. During the war, many religious artifacts were hidden for protection. After Sol did its destructive work, clandestine groups built vaults throughout Earth, often in places Sol had already destroyed. It was hoped that Sol would not go back to these sites. The vaults were built, often underground, filled with the artifacts and left alone.

Why are you telling us all this and why are we looking for this vault, Sir? We're Sol Fleet officers. Is this mission really sanctioned by Sol? questioned a grave Chayo.

Lieutenant, you received proper orders to accompany me on this mission. You will follow them. I am merely providing you with some background information. The information I have given you is not easily available, but it can be found among encrypted databases if you are willing to look hard enough for it. With respect to other more critical information, you will know what you are to know when you are to know. That goes for you also, Ensign.

Sir! replied Israel, her eyes locked on the scanner.

Sir! remarked Chayo.

"Bollocks!⁹ Two small shuttles approaching from the northeast, advised Lieutenant JG¹⁰ Phanuel over the ships intracom. He was at the back of the craft in the gunnery. They're over the Mount of Olives."

How far away? asked Jophiel.

About a mile, he replied. They are maintaining that distance. You may not have a visual as they are keeping mainly in the dense overcast. I have them on radar as they aren't cloaked. They are undoubtedly aware that we have noted them and are scanning them."

Can you identify?

They appear to be standard shuttlecrafts, but I am having difficulty with scanning all areas of the craft. They may be armed, as there are some modifications.

If they threaten, Lieutenant, do what you have to do.

I will. They have increased their distance, Sir.

I've got the vault, Lieutenant. 31°46'18N 35°13'43E, shouted Israel.

Store the coordinates, Ensign. Keep going Lieutenant.

Sir!

A droplet of sweat fell from Jophiel’s face onto the control panel in front of her. Chayo reached for a tissue and handed it to her. Jophiel smiled briefly.

They're gone, announced Phanuel.

Good. Take us up into the overcast. Keep going north. We'll keep going for a while should they return.

No signs of them, Lieutenant, remarked Phanuel, after a few minutes.

Back to the site, Lieutenant. We do not have much time. Every mission has to be coordinated and according to schedule. The time is here.

What is it you're not telling us, Lieutenant? asked Chayo. Jophiel smiled. I suppose I'll tell you what I have been told. You will know what you are to know when you are to know. Chayo hit her forehead with her hand.

I have the vault again. It lies about fifty feet deep, Lieutenant, estimated Israel. There is a tunnel leading to near the surface, however. The tunnel entrance is about ten feet below ground."

Put down near the tunnel entrance. The shuttlecraft immediately banked and made its approach. As it settled, a wall of dust and sand rose from the mount. The door opened, but a forcefield kept the dust from entering the craft. Phasers at Setting Seven and ready, ordered Jophiel.

Are we expecting trouble, Sir? asked Chayo. I thought we were simply collecting lost artifacts.

Indeed we are, replied Jophiel, smiling briefly. Keep the shuttle ready to take off and monitor us continuously as we make the approach to the tunnel. Use intradetail communications only. Lieutenant Phanuel. Ensign. Come with me. Jophiel pointed to a small case near the door. Ensign. Bring that case with you. Israel picked it up and they stepped from the shuttle into the warm night air, the dense overcast having trapped the daylight temperature.

The tunnel entrance is about ten yards in front of you, advised Chayo.

We'll burn away the sand and seal the walls downward to the tunnel entrance, instructed Jophiel. Ensign! Open the case. It contains heat dispensers among other things. Lieutenant. Use your phaser and get us to the tunnel.

Sir! Israel adjusted her phaser and fired at the ground. The smell of melting silica irritated their eyes and nostrils, but the approach tunnel began forming, its sand walls becoming a crystal passageway.

You're near the original tunnel, stated Chayo over the intradetail com. Less than a minute later, Chayo exclaimed You're there! The beam from the phaser disappeared except for a glow to provide light. Israel took two heat dispenser balls from the small case and threw them down the tunnel, releasing a cool mist. The trio walked in. At the end of the crystal tunnel, remaining bits of sand fell away from the door revealing the letters Danger There were two large hinges and a padlocked chain that kept the door locked."

Israel examined the door. Step back, she directed. Using her phaser, she carefully cut through the chains; the lock fell to the ground. She then pulled the door and it opened, squeaking on its hinges. The air was musty and the smell of the burned metal was acrid to their noses. They did not seem to notice, however, as they walked down towards the vault which was just a fifteen by fifteen by ten bulb at the end of the tunnel. Sealed boxes were stacked, as if hurriedly placed. Fucking shit! What is all of this? Israel looked towards Jophiel. After you, Lieutenant. In the right hand corner, however, was a wooden table upon which was a plain wooden reliquary about two cubits in length.

That’s the box, pointed out Jophiel. She walked up to the table and picked up the box, holding it close to her chest. She then turned around and gave it to Israel. Ensign! You are in charge of this box. If anything happens to me or the shuttle, you are to stay alive and get that box to Admiral Akatriel Yah Yehod Sebaoth. To no one else. Is that clear? And you are never to open the box.

Sir! Israel cleared her throat. What’s in the box, Sir? Jophiel looked intently at her.

Lieutenant, proposed Phanuel. With your permission. I think she should know. Ensign Israel would give up her life to follow your orders and see the mission accomplished.

Jophiel looked at Phanuel. I would expect nothing less from any Sol officer.

I am formally requesting that I be told, insisted Israel. This whole mission is appearing illegal according to Sol Government regulations.

You're very close to insubordination, Ensign; however, I'll give you the names of the two items that should be in the box. They will mean nothing to you because you know nothing of them. Forget the names once I've told you. One is the head of the Lance of Longinus, also known as the Spear of Destiny. This is the spear that pierced the side of the Son of The Lord, a Lord you also know nothing about. The other is the Shofar or Trumpet of The Lord. This is no ordinary shofar. It is the shofar that announced the presence of The Lord at Mount Sinai. It is also one of the shofars used to fall the walls of Jericho .

Israel shook her head, very puzzled. And all this other stuff?

This box is what we came for. This is what we'll take. The rest will remain.

This whole mission makes no sense to me, but I have a feeling that my life is about to change very suddenly.

They're back, snapped Chayo.

Let’s go. Close the door, Lieutenant, and once we're out of the tunnel, collapse the whole thing, ordered Jophiel.

Sir, responded Phanuel.

As they fled the tunnel, Phanuel faced it and blasted the crystal walls. The tunnel collapsed amidst colorful reflections of the phaser blasts against the noisy shattering crystals.

Asmodeus!¹¹ remarked Jophiel.

They're almost overhead, in the overcast. I cannot detect hostile intent, advised Chayo.

The trio raced to the shuttle and entered. The door closed; the craft lifted immediately. The officers took their seats, Israel keeping the box next to her.

They are over the Mount of Olives and are going away, informed Chayo.

Who are they, Lieutenant? asked Israel. There was no response. Why are they monitoring us and if they are indeed hostile, why didn't they attack?

I don't know, Ensign. I am just concerned that they may simply be assisting us in doing their work for them. We'll have to be very careful until this is all over. Takes us north, Lieutenant.

Sir! responded Chayo.

Bollocks! added Phanuel.

THE CROWN OF THORNS.

Cold northerly winds, with light rain and an occasional snow flake, made the waters of the River Seine choppy. The aeroaqua shuttlecraft was travelling northwest along the Quai d'Orléans of the smaller of two islands. As it approached the larger island, the wave heights and sprays increased. The craft jumped into the air and landed forcibly.

Fuck, uttered Ensign Achusaton. If this continues, I'll get seasick. I just can't accept that I will get seasick or a river. Why can't we just fucking fly?

This will be the talk of the mess hall, laughed Ensign Schimuel. The notorious Achusaton who has been on numerous dangerous scientific missions he does not fail to tell you about, gets seasick on a river.

I have always been in space or on dry land. I am almost never on the sea or any body of water for that matter. And it’s always a scientific mission, never one where I am going to steal something and will probably get killed in the process.

You're growing up, Achusaton, laughed Lieutenant Zadkiel Smith, the shuttlecraft taking another dive into the ever increasing chop. As it has been said over the years, there is always a first time and you were briefed; you knew what you were getting into. We all do.

They were approaching the Cathedrale Notre Dame de Paris, which still stood in all its former glory, having been preserved by Sol for its architectural significance. The beautiful spires, the two main towers, the many glass windows and ornate arches, they were all still there.

This was once a cathedral, a church, a word you are probably unfamiliar with. It is now a Sol government office. It’s almost as beautiful as it always has been, except for one thing. All the crosses have been removed. After World War Three, the people here argued that the cross simply represented an intersection, a point of meeting, of convergence, and of synthesis of peoples and ideas. Sol stood by their belief that the cross was absolutely religious and evokes images of torture, suffering, and confrontation. They removed every cross.

It’s still beautiful, remarked Lieutenant JG Adoyahel. Even in this miserable weather.

Yes! Ancient societies used a lot of resources to pay tribute to their gods, added Schimuel.

Christians have . . . had only one Lord, uttered Zadkiel. The officers turned and looked at him, but said nothing.

Seems that a fog wants to set in and complicate our great voyage, forewarned Adoyahel. Whenever possible, I like to see with my own eyes rather that with instruments, he complained.

It was after passing under the Rue de la Cite that Achusaton started to vomit in the bag Schimuel had given him, much to the amusement of the other members of the party. Adoyahel leaned over towards him and hit him with a hypospray on the arm.

Fuck! cried Achusaton. That hurt.

Sorry. I can't have you vomiting on a mission, replied Adoyahel.

"I'm only going to steal. I'm