Artifact

By Cole Steele

In the scorching desert of Egypt, Boston University archaeologist Dr. Calvin Prentice has unearthed an ancient amulet. Paired with a mystifying hieroglyph, they unveil a path leading into the uncharted rainforests of Peru, where a hidden truth awaits that is so profound it could redefine humanity's place in the universe. Joined by graduate students Lydia Brimmer and Mace Santino, they face a shadow organization that's determined to bury the secret of a lost civilization no matter the cost. "Artifact" is a pulse-pounding expedition into the unknown with betrayal and suspense at every turn. A journey that could change history forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cole Steele
• Release date: Aug 1, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223114109

Cole Steele

Cole Steele is a versatile and talented author residing in the United States. With a vivid imagination and a knack for storytelling, Cole Steele has successfully created two enthralling book stories and a captivating short story series. Cole Steele is deeply grateful to the writers who first ignited his passion for storytelling and provided the inspiration to embark on this creative journey.

Book preview

ONE

Dr. Calvin Prentice stood in the tranquil expanse of his office at Boston University, eyes transfixed on an array of images tacked to the wall. Glyphs, intricate and enigmatic, that had fed his obsession for the past decade. One from the sunbaked lands of Egypt, the other from the aged ruins of Turkey. Both displaying the same motif – a pyramid, their symbols uncannily similar as they were mysterious. Prentice was steadfast in his belief of a connection, a common thread embedded deep within a forgotten chapter of human history.

Prentice was a seasoned scholar, his hair having long since grayed and his eyes bearing the weight of years of relentless study. Yet, there was an undeniable vitality about him, an intensity in his gaze that revealed his unyielding determination. A lost civilization, laden with wisdom and ancient technology, he believed, was yearning to be rediscovered in the heart of the Amazon.

His graduate assistants, Mace Santino and Lydia Brimmer, stood as contrasting figures next to the experienced professor. Santino, with his broad shoulders and shaved head, exuded a quiet toughness. His demeanor, a testament to a challenging upbringing in the harsh corners of Boston city, belied his sharp intellect. Lydia, in contrast, was a spirit similar to Prentice - keen, brilliant, her radiating enthusiasm for their mission was almost palpable. Together, they formed an unusual yet devoted team, ready to challenge the limits of their discipline and to unravel secrets shrouded by time.

Mace Santino was built like a boxer, but his sharp eyes hinted at a life dedicated to academia rather than physical exertion. A native Bostonian, he had sought refuge in the halls of Boston University on a scholarship, away from the tumultuous streets of his neighborhood. His coarse exterior was a stark contrast to his agile mind and quick wit, making him a valuable asset to any endeavoring research team.

Lydia Brimmer was the embodiment of youthful ambition. Brilliant, tenacious, and perpetually eager to learn, she had been drawn to the mysteries of the past from an early age. With a curiosity akin to Prentice's, she had become his most trusted confidant in this journey of discovery. Her commitment to the pursuit of knowledge mirrored that of her professor, a camaraderie that reinforced their steadfast partnership.

The expedition they were embarking on was cloaked in uncertainty. On the brink of an unexplored world, faced with dense jungles, untraveled terrains, and an undiscovered chapter of human history, they stood. Yet, they were driven by an insatiable curiosity, a hunger to delve deep beneath the surface of known history and illuminate the secrets that time had chosen to forget.

TWO

As their plane landed on the gravel runway of a small, remote airport, the team was immediately enveloped by the sensory onslaught of their new surroundings. The air was thick and rich, carrying the scent of damp earth, blooming flora, and the heady aroma of nearby street food.

They were shuttled to a modest but comfortable motel, its walls painted a cheerful yellow that stood in stark contrast to the verdant wilderness around it. The place was bustling with life: local families gathered in the dining area, while children played in the adjacent courtyard. It was a warm welcome into this foreign world.

At dinner, the team gathered in the motel's outdoor dining area, a rustic setting offering a wide view of the wild beauty of the Peruvian landscape. Over plates of Lomo Saltado and cups of Chicha Morada, conversation flowed freely.

Dr. Prentice led the discussion, his enthusiasm infectious. He spoke of Peru's history, detailing its journey from the powerful Inca Empire, the Spanish Conquest, and finally, its struggle for independence in 1822. He painted a vivid picture of a land that had withstood the passage of time and had a rich tapestry of history woven into its very soil.

When he spoke of Peruvian archaeology, his eyes lit up with passion. He explained the nuances of the discipline, how it was not merely about uncovering objects but about piecing together stories of the past. He emphasized the meticulous and methodical nature of their work - it was a slow process, often demanding days of painstaking efforts for the smallest of revelations.

Listening to Dr. Prentice, Mace and Lydia felt a renewed sense of purpose. Mace, drawing from his rough past, saw this expedition as an opportunity to uncover untold stories, much like the unnoticed narratives in his neighborhood. Lydia, with her inherent love for knowledge, was intrigued by the idea of unveiling a chapter of history that could redefine their understanding of the world.

The evening drew to a close under a canopy of stars, the rhythmic melody of the Amazon in the backdrop. As they retired to their rooms, each was consumed with their thoughts, a mix of anticipation and trepidation for the day to come.

THREE

Morning arrived with a vibrancy unique to the Amazon. A riot of bird calls announced the dawn, and the lush landscape sparkled under the early sunlight, dewdrops shimmering on leaves like diamonds.

After a quick breakfast of freshly baked bread, tropical fruits, and strong Peruvian coffee, the trio gathered in the motel's common area. Today, they would meet their guide and translator, a local man who would be instrumental in their expedition.

They didn't have to wait long. A man emerged from the bustling market across the street, his confident stride and broad smile immediately drawing their attention. Dressed in a worn-out khaki shirt and rugged jeans, his sun-kissed skin and weathered features spoke of years spent under the harsh Amazonian sun. His name was Manuel.

Manuel extended a calloused hand to Dr. Prentice, his English accented but clear. The introductions were brief but warm, Manuel's affable nature putting the team at ease.

Behind Manuel, a small crowd of people began to gather - men and women of varying ages, their expressions mirroring the hopeful eagerness in their eyes. It was more than the trio had anticipated. Dr. Prentice glanced at Manuel, who simply nodded. Unemployment is high. These people need work, and your project gives them hope.

Moved by the reality of the situation, the trio agreed to take on the entire crew. Paying them in American dollars, they realized, would provide much-needed relief to these families.

As the group started loading equipment onto the old but sturdy trucks, Dr. Prentice turned to his students. Today, we're not just archaeologists. We're providing opportunities, supporting a community. Remember, the past and the present are intertwined, just like the stories we hope to uncover from the soil of this land.

With the trucks loaded and the crew ready, they climbed into the vehicles. As they embarked on their journey deeper into the Amazon, they looked back at the receding view of the motel.

FOUR

The convoy kicked up a storm of dust as they navigated the rough dirt roads. The Amazon rainforest, a green fortress of nature, stretched infinitely around them. Despite being within the confines of a vehicle, they could feel the dense humidity that seemed to hang heavily over the rainforest, seeping into their pores and staining their clothes with sweat.

Manuel, a seasoned veteran of these treks, navigated with a calm precision that belied the rough terrain. His anecdotes about the landscape were interspersed with occasional cautionary tales about reckless drivers who'd underestimated the treacherous nature of the Peruvian roads.

As the sun began to descend, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, they set up their first campsite. Underneath the vast, star-speckled canopy, the team worked together to pitch tents and start a fire. As the night deepened, the Amazon came alive. The symphony of chirps, howls, and rustling leaves was a vivid reminder of the thriving ecosystem that called the rainforest home.

Among the most active of the nocturnal creatures were the insects. Swarms of mosquitoes and gnats hovered around their lamps, attracted to the artificial light. Ants, beetles, and other critters crawled out of their daytime hideouts, going about their nightly routines. Despite the repellents and protective clothing, the team found themselves engaged in a constant battle against the relentless insect population.

The Amazon has the highest diversity of insects in the world, Manuel had told them, Not all of them are pesky. Some are quite beautiful, like the lantern bugs or the blue morpho butterfly. But yes, there are also some that will give you a nasty bite.

The unfamiliar sounds, the invasive insects, and the overall wildness of the place was intimidating, but there was also a strange sense of thrill and anticipation. As they finally settled into their sleeping bags, lulled by the symphony of the rainforest, they felt a kinship with the rugged wilderness around them.

The next morning, they would continue on their journey, venturing deeper into the heart of the Amazon. Little did they know, the challenges of the day would make the previous day's journey seem like a leisurely drive in comparison.

FIVE

As dawn arrived, the camp stirred to life. The day's first light filtered through the dense rainforest canopy, casting long, dramatic shadows on the forest floor. The morning air, thick with the earthy fragrance of wet foliage and ripening fruits, energized the team. After a quick breakfast, they dismantled the camp and resumed their journey deeper into the Amazon.

The terrain became progressively more challenging as they ventured further from civilization. The dense rainforest foliage crept closer to the narrow dirt road, the once clear path gradually becoming a chaotic mix of roots, rocks, and mud. At times, the route wound precariously close to sheer drops, the jungle floor a dizzying distance below.

Manuel’s concentration never wavered as he expertly steered the vehicle around treacherous turns and over rough patches. He warned them of the deceptive nature of the landscape, Even in daylight, this terrain can be deadly. Everything seems calm, but the jungle is always awake.

By midday, the heat had ramped up, a stark contrast to the relative coolness of the morning. The rainforest was an explosion of sound as unseen creatures stirred in the undergrowth and birds cawed overhead. Their pace slowed considerably, but the team remained undeterred, their excitement fueling their resolve.

However, the real test of their endurance came in the form of a sudden and violent rainstorm. The sky, once a perfect blue, turned an ominous shade of gray. Torrential rain hammered down, turning the dirt track into a river of mud. Visibility dropped drastically, and the deafening rain drowned out all other sounds. In mere minutes, the team found themselves in the middle of an Amazonian storm, their vehicles struggling against the onslaught.

They stopped, taking shelter in the vehicles while Manuel reassured them, The Amazon storms are fierce, but they pass quickly. We wait, then we go on.

And so they did. As abruptly as it started, the rain ceased, leaving behind a world washed fresh and glistening. Streams of water flowed down the saturated earth, and the once dusty road was now a muddy challenge. Yet, there was an eerie beauty in the aftermath, a renewed vibrancy to the landscape.

As night fell, they set up camp again, this time with the echo of the day's trials still fresh in their minds. They had faced the might of the Amazon and emerged stronger, their resolve to reach their destination only solidified.

SIX

As the sun began its slow climb into the sky, the campsite hummed with activity. This was their last day on the road. The vehicles had served them well, carrying them as close to the dig site as the treacherous terrain would allow. Today, they would reach the end of the drivable path and set up base camp before venturing out on foot the following day.

Manuel led the way as their convoy snaked through the undulating landscape. The rainforest around them was a wall of green, its grandeur both humbling and intimidating. As they traveled, the gaps between human settlements widened, the signs of civilization becoming scarce until they vanished altogether.

By mid-afternoon, they reached the end of the road – a clearing that opened up to the thick wall of the jungle. Manuel skillfully parked the vehicles in a semicircular formation, creating a makeshift barrier against the wilderness. This was to be their base camp, their foothold at the edge of the unexplored.

Under Manuel’s efficient directions, the crew set up tents and unloaded the tools and provisions from the vehicles. The air buzzed with a renewed sense of purpose as everyone realized that their real journey, the heart of their expedition, was about to begin.

As evening descended, the group gathered around the campfire. The warm glow of the fire illuminated their faces, mirroring the spark of excitement in their eyes. Over a simple yet hearty meal, they shared stories and laughter, the camaraderie easing the underlying tension.

Once the jovial chatter had quieted, Prentice took the opportunity to address the team. His voice cut through the darkness, ringing with the authority of a seasoned scholar and the passion of a true explorer.

We're about to step into a part of the world that, as far as we know, has never been touched by modern man, Prentice began, his gaze sweeping over the team. This is no ordinary dig. We're stepping into the unknown. The journey will be difficult, dangerous even. But remember, the greatest discoveries often come from venturing into uncharted territory.

The silence that followed his words was not of fear, but of respect and determination. Here, under the starry Amazonian sky, they were not just colleagues; they were a team united by the thrill of discovery and the challenge of the unknown.

As the fire died down and they retreated into their tents, the sounds of the jungle provided a primal lullaby. Tomorrow, they would step off the map into the unknown. But tonight, they slept with dreams of the discoveries that lay ahead, ready to face whatever the Amazon had in store for them.

SEVEN

With the dawn, the camp was a hive of activity. The jungle’s morning chorus served as their alarm clock, a symphony of bird calls, monkey chatter, and the rustling of leaves. Breakfast was a simple affair, eaten in an expectant silence as they prepared to depart.

The guide, Manuel, took the lead. Armed with a machete, a GPS, and a paper map, he looked every inch the seasoned adventurer. His job was to cut a path through the dense vegetation, with the rest following closely behind. Each member of the team had a specific role and carried a corresponding load. They moved like a centipede, a long, undulating line of humanity in the heart of the Amazonian wilderness.

Progress was slow. The rainforest was not just a collection of trees; it was a complex, tangled world of roots, vines, and undergrowth. Yet, the challenges of the terrain paled against the buzzing, biting, and stinging creatures that called the jungle home. Insects were omnipresent, a constant reminder of the alien nature of their surroundings.

Yet, the hardships of the journey were tempered by the rainforest's beauty. Sunlight filtered through the green canopy, casting a beautiful, dappled light on the jungle floor. The air was rich with the scent of vegetation and earth, and the chorus of wildlife was a constant symphony that underscored their adventure.

They made frequent stops to rest and hydrate, giving them time to absorb the world