citizen of the ancient Empire of Kush,
present day Sudan (Nile Valley, East
Africa), but has adopted countless
nations as his home during his extensive
lifetime. He maintains access to an
unlimited number of international
passports and identifications, affording
of Kush (Note: Jaycen has taken on
innumerable aliases [covers] over the
ages dependent upon region, time period
and culture; but throughout the Ancient
World, particularly in Kushite lands, he
was regarded as Te Lion of Kush, the
singular title for the royal protector of the
Kushite Empire. He is referred to as Te
Dark Star in the demonic circles of the
Infernal Kingdom.)
Most likely Meroe, Empire of Kush,
present day Sudan (Nile Valley, East
Africa) circa 4000-5000 B.C.E (Before
the Common Era)]
hideaways [or bolt-holes] throughout the
world. Tese bolt-holes are often set up
in strategic locales, or are old favorites of
Jaycen’s that he has maintained through
the ages. Tey are usually small and
unassuming in nature, but are equipped
with everything he might possibly need
to strategize, research, meditate, or rest
his weary bones.)
perfection.
and total enlightenment. He is the
quintessentialRenaissance Man. As
scientific genius, and an artist with
unlimited creative capabilities.
He can lift (press) a maximum of 400
lbs. with supreme effort.
killed by any means.
He possesses the gift of unlimited
potential, and has within him
the ability to achieve any goal, to
accomplish any feat (physical or
mental) if he believes he can do it.
In truth there is nothing magical
about this. It requires ceaseless
study and spiritual development.
ancestral communion, the ability
interact with kindred spiritual
energies (ancestors).
a world of gods, and heroes;
where the lin es be tween
fantasy and reality become
blurred; where folklore melds
of action, adventure and
inspiration unlike any other.
boundaries of the imagination
to its maximum potential.
The world of Jaycen Wise.
The images, ideas and
information that you will
produc t of o ver a decade of
research, meditation, and
(East Africa) in 2004, where I
experienced real-life magic and
to come.
that most ancient and hallowed
place , the s eed o f an e pic to ok
root in my mind.... my mission,
to cultivate and harvest it.
I hope you enjoy! It has truly
been a labor of love.
ORACLE OF MEMNON UPPER EGYPT (2004)
get wise.
Jaycen Wise is an immortal warrior/ scholar hailing from Te
Golden Ages of antiquity
(a period that is so remote that it has been relegated to the
realms of mythology.) He
is the Last Son of the African Empire of Kush, which dominated the
Ancient World,
and spread knowledge, wisdom and peace across the globe.
He is charged with the lofty responsibility of battling the forces
of ignorance and
darkness, to ensure the eternal preservation of knowledge, truth
and light.
He believes he can accomplish anything he sets his mind to.
He is an avid student and teacher, and seeks to always better
himself physically, mentally
and spiritually. He has had the luxury of sitting at the feet of
innumerable masters of
countless arts down through the ages. He has had an immortal’s
lifetime to perfect his skills
and improve upon these teachings, and is driven by an insatiable
hunger for knowledge,
adventure and self-mastery.
Jaycen has faced virtually every situation and scenario
imaginable, and has emegred victorious each and every time (with
few exceptions.) Tose rare situations in which he
has tasted defeat have only served to teach painful lessons and
highlight mistakes that are never repeated.
WARR IOR
man, yet he is also a creator of the highest
magnitude. It is the neverending battle to
balance these opposing forces that is one of
his greatest challenges.
destructive force that rules; in others it is
the force of creation; still at other times, he
achieves an equilibrium.
the jinn beginning in the Golden Ages of
Antiquity and carrying on down through the
ages. He is the most hated demonslayer in
the annals of jinn lore. He is despised above
all others and his name is a curse amongst
the jinn. Instead, he is referred to as Te Dark
Star , in homage to the legendary black blade
Dark Star that he calls upon to do battle with
the forces of darkness.
incomparable measure. He is the product of
the original martial systems that originated
on the African continent in the first ages of
history. Tese arts centered around the total
development of mind, body and soul.
He is a dreamer, a visionary and a
scholar; an unrivaled soldier, warrior and
adventurer; a Renaissance Man, if you will.
A hero’s hero who typifies the t ype of person
that the Ancient Kushite (and Africans in
general ) aspired to be; the perfect blend of
mind, body, heart, and soul.
Although much of his past is
shrouded in mystery, it is believed that
Jaycen was elevated to the l evel of demi-
god and granted the “ gift ” of
immortality
in tribute to his outstanding academic
achievements in the university system
of Ancient Kush, and his leadership and
heroism on the battlefield in the Imperial
Army of Kush (Elite Medjai Guard).
He is guided, down through the ages,
by the irresistible force of destiny, and the
subtle push of the Ancestors.
He is a child of fate resigned to the
fact that he is an instrument of powers much
higher than himself.
can rain destruction and chaos like no other
Jaycen represents
actualized human being
consciousness (where the
demi-god.
percentage daily.
to accomplish any feat
believes he can do it. In
truth there is nothing
magical about this. It
requires ceaseless study and
spiritual world and interact
acquire the knowledge and
wisdom of the ancients.
human being, he possesses
own memories, but the
can only be described as an
inner-net , a vast internal
web consisting of the
that he so chooses.
different time and space.
firsthand the experiences
of the ancestors.
human efficiency. He has
these disciplines with
acrobatic hand-to-hand
of intensive exercise,
the ancient Medjai Order,
supersoldiers, revered
most dangerous human
APEDEMAK L O R D O F T H E G O L D E N S E A
DOSSIER: APEDEMAK (FILE 0.409-C)
sometimes spelled Apadamak
Occupation: Eternal guardian of the African
continent;
personal deity of the King of Kush; protector of the Royal Family;
Kushite god of War
Identity: Secret [Note: In the Ancient World, Apedemak was hailed
as a deity and worshipped widely as the Kushit e god of War.
In the modern world, Apedemak is considered to be a mythical
being. Tere are regions throughout the world that still maintain
his worship. Apedemak’s
identity is common knowledge amongst the masses of the Infernal
Kingdom (the realm of demons.)]
Aliases: Lord of the Golden Sea, He of Great Power, Heq, et
al (Note: Apedemak has worn innumerable names
and titles throughout his existence, dependent upon time period,
region, and culture.)
Place of Birth:
Unknown [Note: Most likely Te Golden Sea, the massive savannah that
comprises much of present day Kenya, anzania, and Uganda
(Te Great Rift Valley, East Africa)]
Known Relatives: None
Base of Operations: Mobile (Note:
Apedemak maintains the entire continent of Africa a s
his personal realm, and rarely travels outside of its
borders.)
Height: 5’ ( feet to
Eyes: Golden
companion and
indistinguishable
Apedemak is Jaycen’s
that Jaycen looks
represented in ancient
lore and pictographs
often holding a leashed
elephant or lion (both
likelihood, a true
fear no evil S h
u n 2 0
0 7
- P h
i l i p
p i n e
s
S ince the dawn of time, demons have walked the earth in the
guise
of man, weaving webs of deception and discord, and paving the way
for Armageddon (Te Final Battle ) in the End of
Days.
Tese demons (or jinn, to use the ancient term) are spirits
created by God out of fire (man being created from
clay ).
Tey hold themselves to be older and superior to all
mankind and cling to the fact that they were
the first inhabitants of the earth and as such are entitled to
all of its pleasures and riches.
Tey most often take the guise of physically beautiful people, and
are extremely vain.
Tey naturally gravitate toward positions of power and influence in
the human world, as they are slaves to luxury, vice and exce
ss.
Many crave the spotlight and high visibility lifestyles,
endeavoring to become rulers, politicians, entertainers, athletes,
religious figures, etc.
While others se ek alliance s with humans tha t better
ser ve their evil purposes.
Tey have historically aligned themselves with the most heinous
groups and individuals in the history of mankind. Tese
relationships provide them with direct access to the things they
love most; wealth, per version, death, and the abuse of
power.
If you look at history’s most infamous men and women; the
perpetrators of the worlds greatest acts of genocide, destruction
and tyranny, you will find a jinn comforta bly in the shadows
whispering in their ear and pulling their strings.
It is their eternal charge to tempt man to stray from the light
within himself, and they revel in creating mischief and mayhem
through murder, extortion, terrorism, war mongering, and other
forms of villainy.
Tey are a long-lived race, and it is not uncommon for them to live
for centuries, if not longer. Many achieve Since the dawn of time,
demons have walked the earth in the guise of man, weaving
webs of deception and discord, and paving the way
for Armageddon (Te Final Battle ) in the End of
Days.
Tese demons (or jinn, to
use the ancient term) are spirits created by God out of fire (man
being created from clay ).
Tey hold themselves to be older and superior to all
mankind and cling to the fact that they were
the first inhabitants of the earth and as such are entitled to
all of its pleasures and riches.
Tey most often take the guise of physically beautiful people, and
are extremely vain.
Tey naturally gravitate toward positions of power and influence in
the human world, as they are slaves to luxury, vice and exce
ss.
Many crave the spotlight and high visibility lifestyles,
endeavoring to become rulers, politicians, entertainers, athletes,
religious figures, etc. While others see k alliances
with humans tha t better ser ve their evil purposes.
Tey have historically aligned themselves with the most heinous
groups and individuals in the history of mankind. Tese
relationships provide them with direct access to the things they
love most; wealth, perversion, death, and the abuse of power.
INFERNAL KINGDOM
CHARLIE FAB MSHINDO URAEUS VOLUME ONE
B A C K S T A G E P A S S
JAYCEN WISE & T H E E Y E O F T H E S T O R M
most satisfying experiences I have had in the
eight
years I have been working on Jaycen Wise. Not
only did it allow me the opportunity to collaborate
with two of the baddest artists in the
industry
(Charlie Fab and Mshindo), but it was an on-the-
fly lesson in innovation, and pushing the limits of
technology to meet the needs of the creative team
and creative goal.
by highly productive teleconferences and long
distance brainstorm sessions from his studio
in North Carolina, to my studio in Baltimore,
MD. Te tale brings Jaycen Wise and his nemesis
Fatimah, the world’s top thief (given the title of
Alpha by the international thieves guild, Te
Sons
of Hermes ) into confrontation at the New York
Metropolitan Museum, at the unveiling of the
legendary Eye of the Storm Diamond (the largest
cut diamond in the world.)
Te story unfolds in much the same way as
a storyboard sequence for an animated short or
feature film. We work in this manner because film
is always the ultimate goal. Tis particular page
gives the perfect opportunity to see the progression
from Charlie’s thumbnail sketch; to his pencils; to
his inks; to Mshindo laying down some flat color.
Tis entire process was absolutely amazing . It was
an honor and a pleasure to work side by side with
these brothas as they worked their magic. We had
a tremendous amount of fun.
Both Jaycen and Fatimah are there to steal the
Eye of the Storm, but for very different reasons.
Fatimah has been sent by Te Sons of Hermes , as
she is their number one operative; while Jaycen
wants to “liberate” the diamond and return it to
the people of the Congo (E. Africa) where it was
discovered. Tis theme is recurrent in Jaycen’s
adventures; returning artifacts and treasures to
their rightful homes.
Real Name: Fatimah
thief by the international
thieves guild known as
Te Sons of Hermes.
successfully stealing the
difficult object to steal
in the world. Fatimah
Alpha since the late 15 th
century.]
who specialize in stealing
thieves and tricksters.)]
Base of Operations:
Intelligence Level: Fatimah is extremely intelligent, though not on
the genius level.
She is cunning (almost at a superhuman level) and has devised some
of the most intricate plots of any foe that Jaycen has faced
.
Strength Level: Although she is presumably well over 500
years in age,
Fatimah possesses the strength of an average woman who engages in
intense physical exercise.
Abili ties: Fatimah is an Olympic level gymnast with a
mastery of acrobatics, tumbling, balance and contortion.
Powers: Fatimah possesses the ability to create, and to a certain
extent manipulate small rips in the fabric of space/time
(wormholes.) Whether this is truly a power, or is achieved through
the use of magic is unclear. With intense
concentration, Fatimah can create small wormholes, then enter
the wormhole as a means of escape, or to travel short distances.
[ie: she can create a wormhole on one s ide of an
impenetrable wall or impassable barrier, climb in the hole and
emerge from another wormhole on the other side.] his affords
her the ability to enter any area she so desires and to escape
undetected.
In addition, she is extremely long-
lived (though not completely immune to aging), and immune to
conventional disease.
First Appearance: Jaycen Wise & he Eye of the Storm
Background: Unrevealed
ARCHYTAS M A S T E R O F M E C H A N I C S
DOSSIER: ARCHYTAS (FILE 7.001-V)
Real Name: Archytas (pronounced ar -ka-tis)
Occupation: Scientist; Mathematician; Engineer; Philosopher;
Teoretician; President of PROEUS CORP (Te Proteus
Corporation)
Identity: Unknown to the General Public
Legal Status: Originally a citizen of arentum, Magna Graecia
(present day Italy); Naturalized citizen of Greece
Aliases: Archytas of arentum; Dr. Archytas
Place of Birth: Magna Graecia (present day Italy) [circa
350 B.C.E.]
Marital Status: Single
Known Relatives: None
Group Affiliation: Academy of Pythagoras
( Mathematikoi – School of Science and
Mathematics); PROEUS CORP (Te Proteus Corporation)
Base of Operations: Mobile [Note: PROEUS CORP (Te Proteus
Corporation) is headquartered on an island
compound off the coast of Greece, but has various sub-headquarters
located in all parts of the world.]
Height: 5’ 9”
Weight: 185 lbs.
Intelligence Level: Archytas has an unlimited capacity for
the comprehension and utilization of mathematics and mechanics. He
is credited as being the father of mathematical mechanics, and is
one of the most important contributors to Western science and
academics. o say that he is a genius would be a vast
understatement, as he is on a level of competency and achievement
that is unprecedented in the annals of European history (both
classical and modern.)
Strength Level: Although he i s wel l over two thousand years
in age, Archytas possesses the strength of an elderly man (late
sixties), who engages
in moderate regular exercise.
Powers: Although Archyt as posses ses no powers in the
truest sense of the word, he is extremely long- lived (though not
completely immune to aging), and immune to conventional
disease.
Background: “Archytas is believed to be the founder of
mathematical mechanics. As only described in the writings of
Aulus Gellius five centuries after him, he was reputed to have
designed and built the first artificial, self-propelled flying
device, a bird-shaped model, that he named he Pigeon, propelled by
a jet of what was probably steam, said to
to become. He is a true hero
fraught with conlict and
paradox. His battles are
that have plagued mankind
for centuries. However, he
humanity and hopefully can
hero within themselves.”
he mystical blade Dark Star has
achieved legendary status in Te Realm of Shadows for
its epic history of slaying jinn (demons ).
It is hated and feared above all other weapons by the minions of Te
Infernal Kingdom.
It was forged in Te First Ages in the great fires
beneath Mount Atlas (North A frica) over a period of thirty
days, then cooled in the blood of slain jinn (demons ) for
another thirty days. It is the color of the
thrusting/ hurling properties of the spear; and the
hacking/chopping properties of the axe.
Its balance and strength are directly dependent on he (or
she ) who wields it. In the hands of Jaycen Wise,
it is as l ight and sharp as metaphysically possible, and
unbreakable by physical means. It is
immeasurably powerful, and creates a perfect circuit
with the one who wield s it, enhan cing focus, clarity,
resolve and perception (soul energy magnification). his circuit
also establishes a bond between weapon and wielder that allows
access to the energies of all who have wiel ded it be fore.
Dark Star is by no means a conventional weapon that
Jaycen woul d ca rry into an average battle. In fact, he does
not carry it at all, as it can only be summoned in time of great
need. he summoning process requires the utmost concentration and
exerts an incredible amount of spiritual energy, sometimes leaving
Jaycen somewhat depleted by the time it materializes in his
wait ing hands . Although it is unclear at what
poin t in time Dark Star happened into Jaycen’s hands, it is clear
that he has time and time again called upon the mystical blade
when situa tions seem most desperate.
deepest obsidian; a black so deep that it appears to glow.
It is composed of a perfect alchemical blend of three unique
substances renown for their superlative qualities.
Diorite — strength, durability
Diamond — strength, longevity
Onyx — enhancement properties
It is virtually weightless, and always cool to
the touch. It possesses the slashing properties of the
sword; the
utility belt: ORGANIC POLYMER CONSTRUCTED; .4”
THICKNESS; HOUSES UP TO TWENTY INDIVIDUAL CARTRIDGES; INCLUDING
CRYSTALS; SANDS; HERBS; 20’ SPIDER SILK ROPE; TOOL KIT (CERAMIC);
LIGHT SOURCE; ACETYLENE TORCH; SURGICAL TOOLS; LOCK PICKS; MAGNETS
(PLASTIC); EXPLOSIVE CHARGES; water purifying tablets;
BUCKLE: SOLID GOLD ENCRUSTED RUBY
work boots: FIRE RETARDANT LEATHER; ORGANIC POLYMER LINING;
VENTILATION SYSTEM; provides exceptional stability and
mobility on varying surfaces and inclines; TOE CAP
PROTECTION, DIAMOND CARBON TOE; LACES (24” SPIDER SILK WOVEN
STRING)
com-link (nanosat): MICRO RECEIVER/ TRANSMITTER; SHORT TO
LONG RANGE COMMUNICATION; signal encryption; direct link to
DEDICATED nanosat (nano- satellite) enabling access to an unlimited
number of international databases, networks; map making
capabilities; land survey; tracking; surveillance;
intervention
shirt: MICROFIBER FABRIC; FIRE RETARDANT; MOISTURE TRANSPORT;
MAXIMUM MOBILITY; NANOWIRES WOVEN INTO FABRIC CREATE PIEZOELECTRIC
FIELD THROUGH BODY MOVEMENTS REGULATING BODY HEAT AND
INTERNAL TEMPERATURE
gloves: AROMATIC NYLON FIBER (WOVEN); KNUCKLE
REINFORCEMENT; ELEMENT RESISTANT (heat/cold); PADDED PALMS;
MOISTURE RESISTANT
pants: MICROFIBER FABRIC; FIRE RETARDANT; MOISTURE TRANSPORT;
MAXIMUM MOBILITY; NANOWIRES WOVEN INTO FABRIC CREATE PIEZOELECTRIC
FIELD THROUGH BODY MOVEMENTS REGULATING BODY HEAT AND
INTERNAL TEMPERATURE
CONTEMPO CASUAL (COVERT OPS)
NOTES: GEAR (FILE 0.055-E)
LIGHT COMBAT (special OPS)
TACTICAL DOUBLE SHOULDER HOLSTER: QUICK RELEASE
allows for a smooth single-motion draw; features a dual
spring closure for uniform tension and stability; SUPERIOR
protection against weapon takeaways; microfiber spider
harness
PRECISION gloves: AROMATIC NYLON FIBER (WOVEN);
EXTRA-SENSORY TECH; KNUCKLE REINFORCEMENT; ELEMENT
RESISTANT (heat/cold); PADDED PALMS; MOISTURE RESISTANT
HIGH IMPACT KNEE PADS: half-inch, SUPER high-density
foam covered in MICROFIBER FABRIC, PROVIDES SUPERIOR SHOCK
ABSORBTION AND COMPLETE WRAP- AROUND PROTECTION;
COMBAT boots: ULTRA LIGHT FIBER; FIRE RETARDANT;
ORGANIC POLYMER LINING; VENTILATION SYSTEM; provides
exceptional stability and mobility on varying surfaces
and inclines; TOE CAP PROTECTION, DIAMOND CARBON TOE
utility belt: ORGANIC POLYMER CONSTRUCTED; .4”
THICKNESS; HOUSES UP TO TWENTY INDIVIDUAL CARTRIDGES; INCLUDING
CRYSTALS; SANDS; HERBS; 20’ SPIDER SILK ROPE; TOOL KIT (CERAMIC);
LIGHT SOURCE; ACETYLENE TORCH; SURGICAL TOOLS; LOCK PICKS; MAGNETS
(PLASTIC); EXPLOSIVE CHARGES; water purifying
tablets
Jaycen Wise leaned over in his first class seat to gaze at
the Atlanta
skyline. Te October skies were a sea of blue crystal, the summer
haze long
gone. Te flight attendant offered to refresh his half-emptied wine
glass,
but he refused with a polite smile. He drank his wine the old way,
diluting
it with water the way it was meant to be enjoyed. It was considered
barbaric
to drink wine undiluted in the ancient world. He chuckled to
himself.
He had always enjoyed modern aircraft; from his first
leisurely trip on
a zeppelin, to his multiple stints as a combat pilot during both
World Wars,
to his current cover, as international traveler, and collector of
antiquities.
He kicked back in his recliner and took one last mouthful of
merlot
before the captain announced the final approach to
Hartsfield/Jackson
International Airport. No sooner had the wheels touched the tarmac
had he
turned on his smartphone. A message waited; he opened it, and
smiled.
-- What are you doing in Atlanta? You were expected in Rome
this
afternoon.
by Milton Davis & URAEUS
A N D T H E N E C K L A C E O F A S A N A M E K
PART ONE
-- No time for sentiment.
Tey still didn’t understand. He mused. He worked with them,
not for them.
I’ll be on a plane tomorrow. Tis won’t take very long.
Jaycen turned off his smartphone and exhaled deeply. He
gathered
his attaché case from the overhead compartment, then pulled a
small
black credit card from his inside jacket pocket. He exited the
plane
quickly, making a bee line for the automated car rental
kiosks.
He located the appropriate station, waved the black card in
front
of the sensor and selected vehicle. Te keys dropped neatly into
his
palm, and in a matter of minutes he was behind the wheel of a
jet
black BMW 335i Coupe. He was ready for business. Te
navigation
unit displayed the quickest route to Emory University and he set
off
without delay.
Te infamous traffic of metropolitan Atlanta greeted him
unceremoniously as he merged onto Interstate 85. He took a
deep
breath and settled in for the long drive ahead. He opened his
attaché
case, and pulled out the brochure for the exhibit. Te Lost Kingdoms
of
the Nile , it read. Te collection was initially on loan from
the Boston
Museum of Fine Arts for the summer, but because of its popularity,
and
a timely grant from university donors, the exhibit had been
extended
to the end of the year.
Jaycen had initially planned to retrieve the artifact when
the
collection returned to Boston, but the Emory University location
was
strategically too good to pass up. Security systems would
undoubtedly
be lax, and university security would stand guard, as opposed to
the
world renown Boston Museum.
In Jaycen’s opinion, there wasn’t much to the exhibit as far
as
artifacts of great historical importance, but there was one item
in
particular that he had to obtain. As antiquities went it was
valuable,
but not exceedingly so. o him, however, there was no more
important
item in the world.
An hour later, Jaycen found himself pulling into a
commuter
parking lot on the campus of Emory University. He parked the BMW
at
the far end of the lot and hopped out with a demeanor that betrayed
no
sign of apprehension nor doubt. He was completely in his
element.
Te campus was in full bloom and full of activity. He drank
it
all in as he walked about. Tere was always something about places
of
higher learning that invigorated and energized his being. He
pondered
whether he had spent more hours in the halls of learning, or
on the
fields of battle in his lifetime. He wasn’t quite sure.
Following the campus map provided in the brochure, Jaycen
navigated a path through the throng of students moving quickly to
and
fro, directly to the Michael C. Carlos Museum located at the
southern
end of the campus complex. He entered the museum casually,
first
holding the large wooden door open for a class of school children
on
a field trip, who smiled gleefully as they passed.
A cursory look about the place confirmed that the
museum
was indeed the typical university setup; a simple security
system, and
security guards present, but sparse. Most definitely unprepared for
his
unique skill set.
He peeked into a gift shop just inside the entrance, amused by
the
vast collection of books on Kemet and Kush (or Egypt and
Nubia, as
they were now commonly known). Dozens of books, and none of
them
told the story as he knew it. His amusement turned to irritation.
At
least the cashier seemed to be enjoying his job; his pudgy face
erupted
in a wide smile as Jaycen approached the turnstiles.
“Good afternoon, sir!” he sang. “Are you here for the
Lost
Kingdoms exhibit?”
“Tat will be a seven dollar donation, sir.”
Jaycen paid the man quickly in cash and received his
ticket.
In no time at all, Jaycen had scaled the three flights of
steps to
the top floor of the museum, his anticipation mounting at the
prospect
of seeing the necklace again. It had been far too long.
A non-descript security guard, armed only with a night
stick
punched his ticket, and he entered the exhibit. Te hall was
fashioned
to resemble the ancient Kushite temples discovered by George
Reisner
and his team of Harvard scholars at Kerma (Sudan) in 1913. It
was
an admirable attempt, he thought to himself; but paled woefully
in
comparison to the royal halls, as he remembered them.
It was always good to see pieces of his past, but the fact
that these
pieces were stolen from his homeland caused an uneasiness in the
back
all of these artifacts and return them home to the cultures that
created
them, but this was no perfect world.
He bypassed most of the cases and displays, casting furtive
glances
about, and searching for the necklace. He found it at the far end
of
the exhibit, in a glass enclosure, surrounded by a family. Te
father,
a handsome coffee-colored gentleman with flecks of gray in his
hair,
read from a placard to his twin teenage daughters and lovely
wife.
“Tey say this necklace was found in one of the old Nubian
pyramids in the Sudan,” the father said in a smooth Southern
drawl.
“I wonder who it belonged to?” said the wife.
“Her name was Asanamek, and she was as beautiful as the night
sky over the Nile,” Jaycen cut in, startling them.
“Her father was a high priest of the goddess Hathor, and she
was
destined to follow in his footsteps as a priestess of the order;
but she
rebelled against the edict of her father, and fell deeply in love
with a
young soldier who refused to hide his love for her.
He gave her that necklace over five-thousand years ago as a
token
of his love, knowing that fate and circumstance would never
allow
them to be together. She wore it from that day forward until the
day
she died.”
“I’ve never heard that story before,” a female voice shot
from
behind. Jaycen turned his head slightly and caught sight of a
magnificent
ebony-hued beauty approaching the case. She was dressed
conservatively
in a blue pantsuit that displayed her remarkable form, and her
hair
was pulled back into a thick pony tail, leaving her almond
eyes, small
nose and full lips on display. She smiled skeptically at Jaycen as
she
extended her hand, one eyebrow raised. He was momentarily
taken
aback by the sheer beauty of the woman, but recovered
seamlessly.
“I’m Candace Pearlman, assistant curator and exhibits
coordinator
here at the Carlos Museum. And you are?”
Jaycen took her hand and squeezed it gently. “Wise,
Jaycen
Wise.”
Candace’s eyes brightened noticeably. “Te Jaycen Wise?”
“Te only one I know,” he laughed uncomfortably.
She looked at the family. “Ten the story you heard is
undoubtedly
true. Professor Wise is one of the foremost experts on the
ancient
kingdoms of the Nile Valley; particularly Kush.”
Jaycen looked at the twins with a smile. “I just read more
books
than she did,” he whispered.
“I’m flattered you took the time to visit our exhibit,”
Candace
said.
“We’re not the Louvre, or the Smithsonian, but we do our
best.”
“I wish I knew you were coming,” she added, “we could
have
made an event out of it.”
“Exactly what I wished to avoid,” Jaycen confessed. “However,
I would enjoy a tour; if you have the time.”
“But of course, Professor Wise.”
“Just Jaycen.”
Candace gave him a devilish grin. “Okay, Jaycen. Follow me.”
Jaycen watched her walk away. “Tat won’t be hard,” he
thought.
exits, cameras, motion detectors, vents, and security
checkpoints.
Tis would be an easy job. He estimated that he could be in and
out
in less than five minutes. Tis building was a security nightmare.
He
became suspicious for a moment but quickly dismissed it. It was
a
university. Tey just didn’t know any better.
“Have you had lunch, Jaycen?” Candace asked.
“As a matter of fact, I haven’t.”
“Te restaurants close by aren’t great, unless you’re into
fast
food; you don’t strike me as the cheeseburger type,” she
laughed.
“No,” he smiled. “No I’m not.”
“Come on,” she gestured. “I know a wonderful vegetarian
restaurant nearby. We’ll have to stop by my apartment first. It’s
on
the way, and I’m dying to change.”
Jaycen smiled. Centuries of experience had taught him
to
regulate his emotions and steer clear of frivolous romantic
interludes
when on the job, but he decided to let go on this occasion
and play
along.
“Change? You look fine to me.”
It was Candace’s turn to smile. “I know I do. I just like to
be a bit more casual outside the museum. It’s not far. It won’t
take
long.”
It was close to two-thirty in the afternoon when they
finally
emerged from her apartment.
“I can’t believe I did this,” Candace said. “You must think
horribly of me.”
“I thought you were wonderful,” Jaycen laughed playfully.
Candace leaned her head on his shoulder. “I’m a sucker for
big brains.”
She pulled him towards her convertible. “Come on, let’s go
eat. I’m starving.”
As they were about to pull off, Jaycen’s smartphone rang.
He
looked at the screen and frowned. “Just a minute please.”
He flipped open his phone and began a heated argument
with his clients. When he hung up, he immediately realized
his
gaffe. Candace was staring at him in utter awe, mouth agape
in
amazement.
disbelief.
Jaycen cursed himself mentally. He was so used to no
one
understanding the ancient tongue that he had little reason to
fear anyone recognizing it for what it was. He had obviously
underestimated Candace’s impeccable credentials.
“Of course not,” he lied. “Te Meroitic dialect has been
extinct
since the 5th century. Plus there are only a handful of linguists
who
can even read it.... and no one knows how to speak it.”
“But I could have sworn that I heard…”
Before the final words could escape her lips, he grabbed
her
by the back of her neck and kissed her with a passion that set
her
insides aflame.
Candace grabbed his hand firmly, visibly aroused. “Come
on,
let’s eat. Te Garvey Burgers at Soul Vegetarian are to die
for.”
Tey pulled off in her nifty grey Saab coupe, and were on the
freeway in a matter of minutes. Jaycen tried his best to steer his
mind
away from the phone call, but his ears still burned with his
clients
concerns. Tey were right. It was time for him to get back to
work;
Te hot summer day descended into a warm humid night on
the campus of Emory University. Cicadas buzzed unseen, and
fireflies
blinked under the broad canopies of the white oaks bordering
the
campus green. Jaycen parked his car in a secluded section of
the
vast condominium complex across the street from the campus,
and
prepared for the night’s work. He had ruled out wearing his
normal
stealth gear, opting for a pair of black khakis, sneakers and
long
sleeve black t-shirt.
He made it to the rear of the building, disabling the
security
system in a matter of seconds. Te rear maintenance door was
easy;
Jaycen found himself before the exhibit, dealing with the
extra
security door provided for the artifacts. With the power dead
the
door was easy to open. He moved through the rooms like a
leopard
to the case holding the necklace. o his surprise, it was
empty.
(TO BE CONTINUED)
C H A R L I E FA B • M S H I N D O R O O S E V E L T P I T T • U R
A E U S
CRITICAL
P R
E V
TRUTH BECOMES LIEs, AND LIEs BECOME TRUTH.
AS DARKNESS CASCADES, SO DOES
THE SELECTIVE EXPUNGING OF OUR
MEMORIES.
ILLUSIONS OF WHAT THE DAY HAS CREATED.
REALITY HAS NO PLACE...
OUR FALSE SENSE OF COMFORT.
THEN THERE ARE MOMENTS
C H A R L I E F A B R O O S E V E L T P I T T U R A E U S
CRITICAL CALM V.1
PURGE
A l l c h a r a c t e r s f e a t u r e d i n t h i s i s s u e a n
d t h e d i s t i n c t i v e n a m e s a n d l i k e n e s s e s t
h e r e o f , a n d a l l r e l a t e d i n d i c i a a r e t r a d
e m a r k s ™ of Richard G. Tyler I I . Purge is the copyrighted
property of Roosevelt Pitt Jr.
TO BE CONTINUED.
Jaycen Wise looked down into the splendid oasis stretched
out before
him from his perch high atop the dune. Te windswept sands stung
his
face despite the woolen shemagh wrapped loosely around his nose
and
mouth. Below him, on the other side, the caravan struggled
desperately up
the mound, fleeing the sandstorm bearing down on them like a
relentless
hawk.
Zezura , he thought to himself as he gazed out
over the wide spanse
of verdant landscape that lay hidden like an emerald in the belly
of the
unforgiving desert.
He had wished to avoid this place, but the impending storm
had
forced his hand. oo many memories lingered beyond the ancient
date
palms and acacia trees; memories he had expended far too much
energy
to suppress. But that was long ago, centuries past, many lifetimes
away.
He turned to the caravan and cupped his hands to his mouth,
battling
the ominous winds.
by Milton Davis & URAEUS
A N D T H E G H O S T S O F Z E Z U R A
PART ONE
Te line of pack camels struggled mightily up the
precipitous
dune. Many riders were forced to dismount and literally push
their
animals up the imposing slope.
Jaycen cast his gaze toward the eastern skyline where the
storm
was gathering strength and blotting out the midday sun. By
his best
calculation, they had less than an hour before the full fury of the
desert
was on top of them. Enough time to secure shelter, but not
enough
time for missteps of any kind.
His Bedouin companions, mostly merchants and traders
carrying
goods intended for market in lands due north, shouted praises to
him
as they made their way to the top of the great sand hill and
witnessed
the bountiful respite waiting below.
A plump man in tattered garments and an equally tattered
turban
crested the dune on a worn camel, spent from bearing the
enormous
weight of its rider. He pulled his shemagh aside to reveal a
heavily
bearded, copper tone face and boyish grin.
“Your reputation does you much justice my friend,” he
laughed
heartily. “You truly are master of the desert!”
Jaycen nodded, only half hearing the man, his attention
still
focused on the eastern skies.
“No time Farouk,” he said curtly. “We can laugh around a
good
fire once the storm has passed and all are safe.”
“Of course master,” the fat one responded, visibly
embarrassed
at his momentary lapse in decorum. “Hut hut!”
He dug his heels sharply in his camel’s side prompting the
weary
animal to begin the descent and lead the others toward the safe
haven
below.
concubines, each of them stealing a furtive glance at the
magnificent,
dark-skinned specimen the men referred to as Aquil , or
wise one .
Heretofore they had little opportunity to catch a glimpse of the
rugged
outlander. Tey now made the most of this opportunity. Jaycen
felt
their eyes appraising him but paid little mind. Tere would be
time
for that later, if all went well.
One woman in particular made no secret of her interest.
She
stared at Jaycen with an intensity that demanded his attention.
Teir
eyes locked for an instant that seemed like an eternity. She
made
absolutely no attempt to avert his gaze, as was custom amongst
the
nomadic peoples in this part of the world. Quite the opposite,
she
smiled seductively at him, daring him to look away.
She was breathtaking in appearance, a vision of unblemished
beauty, with skin the color of the desert sands and full lips that
begged
to be kissed; but most striking were her eyes; they were
golden.
With some effort, Jaycen pulled his attention from the
mesmerizing
maiden, looking away quickly and refocusing his faculties on
the
challenges ahead. Tey were almost out of harm’s way, but not
quite
yet. Still there was something about those eyes.
Once everyone had arrived safely at the top of the dune,
he
mounted his camel and followed the caravan as they hurried to
the
oasis below. He found the party gathered just inside a cluster of
acacias,
waiting anxiously for his instruction.
Tere were others in the party with ample leadership skills
and
a mastery of long-distance desert travel; and even some who
had
contemplated usurping the outlander’s position of power in the
caravan
during the periods throughout the journey when he had bolted
off
alone to scout the oncoming terrain; but none dared to
challenge
the outlander’s authority, for not only was he the finest warrior
and
swordsman amongst them, but he had engendered the deepest
respect
and trust in all who travelled with him, and had fostered a
collective
sense of confidence and security despite the many obstacles they
had
faced along the way. He had earned quite a reputation as a trek
leader
amongst the peoples of the eastern kingdoms for making the
most
dangerous journeys seem easy. His parties always arrived safely
at
their destinations, and always ahead of schedule. He had an
uncanny
knack for intuitively locating shortcuts, and selecting routes
that
bypassed sinkholes and other environmental hazards. It was as if
he
had committed the entire lay of the great desert to heart; as if he
had
made the trek a thousand times before.
Tey made way for him and he led them into Zezura. He
picked
up the path, at the intersection of two massive palms, precisely
where
he remembered it to be. Te tracking was sufficient, but on
either
side, dense brush bottled them in. Te trail was approximately
four
and a half meters wide, providing barely enough room for the
riders
to navigate their camels without incident. Tey followed this
route
for several minutes, until they heard what sounded unbelievably
like
flowing waters.
As they continued on, the path gradually widened to a
more
spectacular clearing several acres in area that must have been
intended
for the gods. Te underground springs which fed Zezura emerged
on
the surface in the form of a magnificent oval lake, rimmed by
palms,
multicolored flowers, and dense papyrus. Soft, lush grass covered
the
floor like an emerald blanket, and brilliantly-colored birds of
various
species flittered about. Palm branches reached out in every
direction,
providing an imposing perimeter, as well as invaluable shade from
the
all-powerful sun. It was almost too much to take in for the
bedazzled
travelers. A collective cheer erupted from the group as they
grasped
the sheer majesty of what lay impossibly in front of them; heaven
on
Earth; safety; survival. Tey praised their gods in song and
danced
jubilantly.
“We must not celebrate just yet,” Jaycen shouted, his face
reflecting
the dire nature of the situation at hand. “Te storm is still on its
way.
Te trees will lessen its impact, but by how much we cannot be
sure.
We must set up camp. Quickly!”
Te gravity of his words sparked immediate action.
Riders
scrambled about, unpacking bundles, setting up tents, securing
camels,
and anchoring valuables. Jaycen wandered about the camp,
lending
a hand where he could, before selecting an adequate campsite
and
pitching his own camel hide tent. He entered quickly and secured
the
flap with thongs. Within minutes, the storm arrived.
An ominous sound began to take shape and steadily
grow.
It sounded at first like a guttural moan; then built to a
powerful
crescendo as the storm gathered momentum. Te ground
shuddered,
and heavy winds pummeled the campsite. Camels bleated in
abject
terror. Children screamed in utter panic. Many items that had
not
been properly tethered were carried off toward the horizon.
Jaycen closed his eyes and exhaled deeply. Tey would be
safe.
Zezura had always protected those who rested inside of her. Tis
time
would be no different.
He attempted to clear his mind, but the images haunting
the
edges of his memory refused to be denied. His meditation slipped
into
a trance, and he remembered…..
Te capital city of Meroe swirled in the panic of
imminent
danger. Te jinn armies of Infernal Kingdom had at long last
broken
through the Kushite strongholds at Naga, Kilamanjaro, and Gao
that
had kept the forces of darkness subdued deep within the hollows
of
the earth for untold millennia. Tey burst forth from the earth
like
a plague, laying waste to all that stood before them, and marching
in
full force directly to the capital with legions of warriors,
squadrons of
beast riders, and enough dark sorcery to lay ruin to the heart of
the
Kushite Empire forever.
From time immemorial, Kush had been the supreme power
in
the world; its empire spanning the globe, and consisting of a
massive
portion of the African continent (radiating from the Upper Nile
Valley);
with colonies scattered throughout Asia, Europe and the
Americas.
For the past 1000 years the Kushite high priests of ehuti
had
the absolute death of knowledge, truth and peace.
Prophecy told of a time of blood and tears, when almighty
Kush
would wither and its colonies throughout the world would fall
away
from the empire like leaves on the wind, weakening it
exponentially
from the outside in.
Te demonic hordes of the Infernal Kingdom had been held
at
bay by mystical defense networks set up in earlier ages by the
architects
of Kush, the Old Race (the first men) at key locations throughout
the
world. But as Kush continued to flourish and grow, and expand
its
colonies throughout the world, the minions of the Infernal
Kingdom
waited, and bided their time. Tey held fast to their
underground cities
and citadels and sent their agents and spies to live amongst the
humans
and sow seeds of discord and division, all the while keeping their
eyes
peeled for signs of the shift in balance.
Every so often, the jinn would launch campaigns against
the
Kushite legions designed to measure the will and resolve of man.
Tese
campaigns were repeatedly repulsed by the Medjai Elite Guard
and
their deadly bows.
Te Medjai were the ancient corps of imperial commandos that
defended Kushite territories across the globe; the first line of
defense,
and the last, when the empire or any of its colonies were under
serious
threat. But even the Medjai were unprepared for the sheer
numbers
and raw power of the armies of darkness. Te question was not if
they
would be able to reach the capital city of Meroe, but
when.
Te time of blood and tears had at long last arrived, and the
call
went forth to all corners of the empire for citizens to rise
up and defend
Kush in its time of greatest need.
Despite the fact that it was prophecy that the balance
ultimately
be tilted toward the darkness, there was still the hope that the
empire
might weather the impending storm and rebuild.
Jaycen rode furiously up the highway followed by a
regiment
of Medjai guardsmen on horseback. His chest ached in regret;
he
should have stayed with his army. He had fought valiantly;
heroically;
brilliantly ; but the dark warriors and warbeasts pitted
against them
attacked like the rising tide; as soon as one wave of troops was
cut
down, another rose up immediately to take its place and rush
forward
with greater force, dashing themselves against the Kushite
defenses.
His skills, honed over centuries, made him virtually
invincible
on the field of combat; but his fellow Kushites were not so
blessed.
Tey fought with the ferocity of Apedemak, the Kushite god of
war,
but ultimately fell like reeds cut by sabers.
Realizing their efforts were in vain, his commanders
pleaded
with him to abandon his post as field general and return with
haste to
Meroe to organize the defense of the temples and sacred places.
His
answer took the form of a swordhand that flashed in blinding arcs
with
even greater urgency, cleaving through bone, shield and hide with
an
intensity that seemed inhuman.
In the end, it was only the dramatic appearance of the
mystical
eagle Akh, messenger of the gods , in the midday sky that
prompted
Jaycen to sheath his crimson blade; rally his best men, and
head off
due south on the long road to Meroe. If their horses ran true and
their
path remained clear, they could reach the capital by
daybreak.
Tose who remained battled on with renewed energy. “Go,
oh
Lion of Kush,” they called. “Go and protect the king; for as long
as he
lives, so does our beloved Kush.”
(TO BE CONTINUED)
During this unforgettable journey I have had the
indescribable privilege of working with an
international all-star squad of digital artists, traditional
artists, concept artists, animators and designers from 11 different
nations, on four different continents. Without their collective
efforts, none of this would be possible. Much respect
and eternal thanks to those who contributed their energies to help
bring my dream to life.
— URAEUS