786 Gog and Magog: The Invasion

By J. R. Duran

The people of Gog and Magog are mentioned in the great
religious books of the world. Their history began long ago,
during the days of Noah.
Who are these people?
What became of them?
The year is 2034. The invasion of Gog and Magog has begun.
The world fi ghts together to survive. Will mankind make it or
is this the end of the world as we know it?
Follow the lives of people as they struggle to exist.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WingSpan Press
• Release date: Jan 7, 2015
• ISBN: 9781595948861

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786

Gog and Magog

The Invasion

J R Duran

WingSpan Press

Copyright © 2015 by J R Duran

All rights reserved.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, settings and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, settings or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the author, except for the inclusion of brief quotations in reviews.

Published in the United States and the United Kingdom

by WingSpan Press, Livermore, CA

The WingSpan name, logo and colophon are the trademarks of WingSpan Publishing.

ISBN 978-1-59594-551-8 (pbk.)

ISBN 978-1-59594-886-1 (ebk.)

First edition 2014

Printed in the United States of America

www.wingspanpress.com

Library of Congress Control Number 2014959887

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Introduction

The story of Gog and Magog is made mention of in the great religious books of the world. This is the story of their origin and coming.

From the Holy Bible: Genesis 10:1-2 Now this is the genealogy of the sons of Noah: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. And sons were born to them after the flood. The sons of Japheth were Gomer, Magog,…

From the Holy Quran: The Calf 94 They said: O Zulqarnein, Gog and Magog do mischief in the land. May we then pay thee tribute on condition that thou raise a barrier between us and them?

The Prophets 96 Until the Gog and Magog people are let through their barriers, and they swiftly swarm from every hill.

Chapter 1

Long ago in ancient times, no one knows the exact time or place. There was a great king, his name was Zulqarnein. Zulqarnein was a godly ruler, greatly blessed by God. Zulqarnein was so greatly blessed that in his possession was a mystical mirror which had been given to him by his Lord, the One true God. This mirror enabled Zulqarnein to see places he had never been. Zulqarnein prayed to God to see the land of the setting sun. God accepted Zulqarnein’s prayer showing him the land of the setting sun in his mystical mirror. He was also shown a people who were worshipping the sun. A people who did not know about the One true God.

Father, what is that place you see in your mirror? asked Shawheen. It is the place of the setting sun. answered Zulqarnein. Are you going to conquer the land of the setting sun, father? I want to help. I am grown enough to make the journey. I want to be a warrior too. said Shawheen. We will see. said Zulqarnein.

The next morning Zulqarnein made a proclamation to his kingdom. God has shown me the land of the setting sun. Today we will make ready for departure for tomorrow we leave. All the land prepared for the departure in the morning. The army consisted of 10,000 foot soldiers and 500 cavalry.

Their provisions included livestock and wagons enough to supply them all.

On the following morning Zulqarnien said his good-byes to his queen, Rahheyla and 12 year old son, Shawheen, who was not quite old enough to make the journey. Dressed as a warrior Zulqarnein mounted his white steed, surrounded by his elite guard and led the way to the land of the setting sun. All the kingdom was there for the sendoff. Zulqarein raised his hand, bidding farewell and leading the way.

As Zulqarnein was leading his army away he reached the top of the hill. Zulqarnein turned to look back at his magnificent ciy. Rahheyla was at the city gate waving good-bye. He did not see Shawheen, who was probably upset that he was left behind one more time. Soon Shawheen would be old enough to go, just not yet. He had grown in a blessed and greatly protected city. Shawheen had no idea of the dangers of the world outside his protected city. He had lived a life of comfort and priviledge. Zulqarnein would see to Shawheen’s training to become a warrior leader on his return. Maybe the next journey would be Shawheen introduction to manhood.

Zulqarnein headed west, passing many towns. Some of these towns were under Zulqarnein’s rule. As Zulqarnein and his army passed by city after city the citizens came out to line the roadside in respect as he passed. Many weeks went by where Zulqarnein’s army traveled in this manner. Zulqarnein was the greatest ruler these people had ever seen. No one wanted to dishonor him.

After a tremendous journey taking many months, Zulqarnein’s army finally arrived to the place he had seen in the mystical mirror. Where the land ended and the sea began. Zulqarnein arrived as the sun was setting, the sea was dark and foreboding. They set up camp at the seashore. Zulqarnein and his army watched as the sun set into the sea. This is the place, I could only imagine, it is greater than I believed, said Zulqarnein. Being late, Zulqarnein and his troops camped by the seashore that night. A great celebration took place that night on the southern beach of the vast sea that stretched out before them. The bonfires burned late into the night. As Zulqarnein and his troops dined on dried meat, quick bread, and doh, a drink made of dry mint, salt, and yogurt, he watched the boats out on the water. Zulqarnein watched the fishermen until he saw the sun sink into the sea.

As Zulqarnein’s army was approaching the sea, Soorahb, the chief military commander, had seen a city to his left. Soorahb informed Zulqarnein of the potential danger. Zulqarnein knew there could be trouble. Zulqarnein would send Soorahb to explore the city in the morning.

As the first crack of light appeared on the horizon, Zulqarnein rose to pray to the One true God. After prayer, Zulqarnein and his trusted advisors met to discuss the city they had seen to their left.

We must know who these people are, said Zulqarnein.

Jhaumshaid, the number one advisor, said, I fear these people are a great people. Their city is expansive. We must see what their defenses are. If their defenses are great then they are a warring people. If there defenses are small then we may have the upper hand.

We will send a small band of twelve scouts to check out the city and make these determinations said Soorahb.

Soorahb assemble your men, we will wait for your answer said Zulqarnein.

Soorahb knew that God blessed Zuqarnein’s every endeavor. Soorahb needed to be certain of the military implications of this journey and did not want to let his King, Zulqarnein down. He must prepare for the trek over to the city and time enough to ascertain their threat.

Leading the way on his powerful black horse, Soorahb set out as part of the band of twelve men. The distance to the city was less than a days travel by horse. Soorahb decided to take it slow, as not to weary the horses. Instead it took them a good part of the day to get near to the city. He had spotted a meadow area near some trees, not too far from the city. This is where they would leave the horses as they made there way closer to the city. Kubaht being the best field cook there was, stayed behind with the horses.

If trouble come you must alert us with your toola. We will certainly hear you from the short distance we have left to travel, said Soorahb.

As Soorahb and his remaining men got closer to the city they saw a shepherd tending his flock of sheep. The shepherd was calling his herd with his flute. The shepherd did not see them. Soorahb could see that the shepherd was not going to be a problem. They passed him by and shortly heard the crowing of a rooster. There was a young boy playing with the rooster, clearly this was some sort of pet. These people were living a carefree life. They were not expecting an attack from outsiders.

There was no fortification of any kind that they could see around the city.

Soorahb called Rhostam and Koorbanjahn, two or his scouts, to go into the city.

You must disguise yourselves, do not appear as warriors. Go see what these people are about. Go into the city, try to go unnoticed. I will be waiting here for your report. said Soorahb. While Rhostam and Koorbanjahn were headed into the city two other groups of two were sent out. One to the left and one to the right to skirt the perimeter. Soorahb then sent another group of two to the valley and river down past the town. Soorahb, himself, went with the remaining two scouts to the hill top for a better view of the city.

Rhostam and Koorbanjahn covered themselves with their cloaks. As they walked into the city they passed a blacksmith. He looked up at them but didn’t seem to pay them any heed. Shortly they came upon a great bazaar. Men and women were milling about between the different vendors buying their wares.

Let’s split up. said Rhostam.

You go down this main street to where those dwellings are. I will go down this way, I can see more dwellings there. See if the houses are reinforced. We will meet back when the sun hits that mountain in front of the blacksmith’s shop. continued Rhostam.

Right. said Koorbanjahn.

As Rhostam went around the corner, there were businesses with houses up above. He came across a hairdresser’s where women were chatting and having a good time. Kids were kicking a ball in the street. A man was talking to another man in front of some kind of business. Rhostam discerned that the business was some sort of money changer. As Rhostam went down the street he saw more businesses below with dwellings above. There were not guards protecting these businesses. These people were blissfully going about their lives. Rhostam came across a park like setting with a well and more kids playing.

Koorbanjahn came across houses built of sticks and mud. People grew flowers and vegetables in front of their homes. There were no walls. Anyone could pick their vegetables or walk up to their homes.

Both men continued on their survey of the town for hours before meeting back up in front of the blacksmith shop.

Rhostam said let’s talk to this blacksmith and see what weapons he has for sale.

Koorbanjahn nodded in agreement.

The scouts went into the blacksmith shop looking for a weapon. They saw picks, hammers, shovels, and other tools.

The blacksmith said you guys are new around here? I haven’t seen you before. Is there anything I can get for you.

Is this all you have, these tools and farming implements? said Koorbanjahn.

I have everything you could need for anything you may to do. What is it you are looking for? asked the blacksmith.

We are in need of an axe, we have lost ours. said Koorbanjahn.

Now I know you are not from here. We do not allow the cutting of trees anymore. For what purpose do you need an axe? asked the blacksmith.

It is not a problem. said Rhostam, quickly defusing the situation. We are on our way to a great forest far from here. Where they are looking for woodcutters. I am sure we can get an axe before we get there.

Oh, that happens. said the blacksmith. If you two are going to be in town for a couple of days I can make you one to take with you. I do the finest work.

Let us get back with you tomorrow to discuss this. Tonight we need to take care of other business said Rhostam.

The men said good-bye to each other and the scouts departed the city.

By the time Rhostam and Koorbanjahn met up with Soorahb it was nearly dusk, they were the last two to arrive back. Soorahb decided to make camp for the night were they left Kubaht. There was a stream and wild berries growing nearby. It was far enough away that they could make a fire and not be detected by the people of the town.

Kubaht was ready for the group when they returned. While they had been away making their assessments, Kubaht managed to hunt a few rabbits with his bow and arrow. These rabbits would make a hearty dinner. Kubht had also came across beets growing at the edge of the creek and wild potatoes nearby. He added to this a large pail of berries he had been picking from the moment he got there. Kubaht was an excellent field cook. He used the supplies they had brought together with the foods he collected on site to make a tasty meal. That night he and the scouting party would dine on roasted rabbit with a blueberry-balsamic glaze, rosemary roasted beets with potatoes, mixed greens salad, yogurt, and fresh flat bread.

Soorahb and his troops arrived to the aroma of this most satisfying meal. Sitting around the fire Soorahb and his men began to discuss the findings of the day.

What did you discover Rhostam? asked Soorahb.

These people have no fears or worries. Their houses are open. Their children play in the street and in fields without supervision. Their storekeepers welcome . strangers. said Rhostam.

This is what we found also. said Ghorzaang, one of the scouts who also went out to explore the city.

Kubaht, how was this spot that you waited at? asked Soorahb.

I was here alone, other than the rabbits. I did see some trails leading to the creek so there are no doubt other animals, but no people. Plus there is a great supply of foods I can gather around here. said Kubaht.

This is what we will do. said Soorahb. Tomorrow we will rise and go to the town on our horses. Kubaht will stay here. If we do not return by midday with their leader then something is wrong. Kubaht will go to our King. Our army may retrieve us if necessary. Otherwise we will find the leader of the city, make our demands, and be back here the same day. Kubaht will remain with the horses. We may need someone to warn the army if anything goes wrong. We are still a party of eleven and God is with us. I believe we will find their leader and take him back to our King.

Traveling by horseback the party of eleven made their way back to the city on the following morning. Dressed in all their military garb and fully armed they entered the city. Heading towards the center of town people began to notice them.

One man called out. Who is it you are seeking in our city?

We came to see your leader said Soorahb.

The one you are looking for is the chief, Malik said one man. He lives in another part of the city, not too far from here. This boy can show you the way.

The party of eleven followed the boy on horseback watching every direction as they traveled. Was this a trap? It seemed so easy. Why are these people so trusting of strangers with armaments? Nevertheless, he didn’t feel uneasy and would trust his gut. Shortly they arrived at a great house, much larger than the rest. This must be the home of their chief, this house is so great. There were people in front of the house tending to the yard. The boy spoke with a man standing in front of a large house. The man approached the eleven warriors.

You have come to see our chief, Malik? said the man. May I ask, what is your business with our chief?

Soorahb addressed the man saying we are part of a great army, numbering more than 10,000 waiting just outside your city. Our King Zulqarnein wishes to speak with your chief. We have come to bring him back to him this day. If we do not return with him, then the army will invade your city tomorrow. They will destroy your city and many of your people.

Oh, I see said the man. This is very disturbing, we are a peaceful people and do not concern ourselves with war. Let me relay your message. I will return with our chief, Malik.

Malik came out of the house shortly thereafter. If I go with you peacefully will you guarantee my safe passage back to my city? asked Malik.

I am certain we can allow you to return peacefully after you have spoken with our King Zulqarnein. He is a great and honorable ruler. said Soorahb.

Malik collected his trusted advisors and the group headed back to where Kubaht was waiting for their return. Kubaht, seeing them coming, immediately readied the horses for the trek back to Zulqarnein.

As Soorahb and his group, along with Malik and his men approached the army’s encampment they came upon Zillguy, a lookout. Oh, Soorahb, I see you are not returning empty handed. Who is this you are bringing to our King?

This is Malik, the chief of the city, and his advisors was Soorahb’s reply. We have returned with ease and satisfaction. Is the King in his tent?

Yes he is answered Zillguy, the guard.

Soorahb went to Zulqarnein’s tent, leaving Malik and his two advisors with the group. Soorahb presented himself to Zulqarnein, who was about to begin his evening meal.

Welcome Soorahb, you have good news for me? questioned Zulqarnein. Soorahb proceeded to tell Zulqarnein about their expedition to retrieve the leader of the city.

So you see your highness, these people have no experience with war and their leader is very amicable. stated Soorahb.

Shortly a guard appeared outside the tent. The guard brought Malik and his advisors into the tent. Malik and his advisors stood before Zulqarnein. Please be seated. I was just about to dine. Won’t you join me? said Zulqarnein.

As Zulqarnein and Malik feasted on luleh kebabs, bulani ( a flat bread with herbs inside), yogurt, salata (a salad of tomato, cucumber, and onion), boranie bademjan (a yogurt eggplant dip), naan, and tea, they began their discourse.

My commander has informed me of your city. I now see you are not a warring people. We don’t mean you any harm. I have also seen that you are a people who worships the sun and idols. I and all my people believe in the One true God, for there is no god but the One Almighty God. For this reason I must insist that you accept this to be true and stop worshipping false gods. If you obey my demands then there will be peace between us. If you cannot obey my commands then I will be forced to attack your city. We are a great army and are very skilled in the manner of warfare. I have conquered cities much more heavily fortified than yours. I am certain that we will lay waste to you city by the will of God. Many of your citizens will perish and we will leave with all of your wealth. What do you say to these demands? asked Zulqarnein.

Malik was trembling. He had never met anyone like Zulqarnein but he could see that what he had told him must be true. Malik was a very wise man and knew that just agreeing with this king would not be enough, he would want proof of some kind. Malik, although he was the chief of the town, did not have the power to direct everyone’s beliefs. He would have to speak with the city elders, who were over the different sections of the town. They would all need to come to an agreement or something could go wrong. I see you are a mighty leader said Malik. I certainly want to honor your offer for peace. It is true, I am the chief of my town. However, we do not just have one leader. We work together as a committee to make the best decisions for all of our citizens. I will need to speak with the elders and secure their cooperation. There is time enough for me and my advisors to return tonight. I ask that you hold off until tomorrow morning. I will need to meet with the elders when I return to our city. I need for you first to tell me more about the One Almighty God you speak of. I must understand who your God is. Then I will better be able to speak to the city’s elders. Only then can we come to a decision. Lastly I ask that I may meet with you at the farm just outside the city. You may have seen the shepherd. If we agree to your demands then will you give me your word that you will leave our city unharmed? implored Makik.

Zulqarnein listened with interest to all that Malik had to say. If Malik raced back tonight this would not leave him