}

As a prelude to the upcoming election, both President Oliveira and Baraq U' Bamah had been invited to speak to the General Assembly in an address that would be broadcast worldwide. The date was chosen carefully and strategically -- it was U' Bamah's birthday. Along with President Oliveira, they would put forth their own individual visions for the future of the world, a polite nod to civility. Oliveira being the sitting President had the option of speaking first which he naturally chose to do, his speech was, predictably, a typical reissuance of his Peace Through Strength doctrine which was met with polite applause when he finished. When U' Bamah took the podium, as if on cue, he was met with enthusiastic applause, reminiscent of an event staged for television. He was becoming more comfortable in the political limelight and like a practiced actor, knew how to play to his audience...

"I have a dream," he began, "a dream of a world united in peace... peace through unity. I come here on my birthday to bring you this message, that I will bring the dream of the founders of this magnificent institution to fruition." After thunderous applause he went on. "I want to thank you for allowing me to address you on my birthday, September 23, the day several years ago, naysayers said the world would end. As the seasons change, so too do the ages of man. For millennia we have labored under the illusion of a loving god that doesn't exist, some mythical figure with a flowing white beard sitting on a throne in the sky that's supposed to love us all. Look at the world around you ladies and gentleman; does this look like the work of a loving god? We have worshipped this false god for too long. The true god lives within us all -- we are all gods. You are God. I am God. I am God," he shouted, "say it- say it loud -- I am God, I am God." The applause was thunderous and emboldened him. "I AM God and I will be your leader. Follow me and I promise you heaven on earth."

Like the serpent in the garden, the father of all lies, U' Bamah promised to make man God. Father Tony listened with great consternation as U'Bamah sold his bill of goods to a weary and desperate public. Whether consciously or not he had painted the resistance into a most untenable corner. U'Bamah had held out an olive branch and any act of violence now would be viewed as a direct attack on U' Bamah's peace initiative.

U' Bamah finished his speech with another promise -- that if elected he would rebuild Jerusalem as a place of worship for all -- with the exception of Christians whose vindictive God he held accountable for the chaos and destruction. The Dome on the Rock would be restored even grander than before. There would be temples to honor every deity, including Satanists and Occultists. Jerusalem in its new found splendor would once again become the spiritual center of the world, a sanctuary for all religions. What he failed to disclose was his plans for a grand temple in his own honor. It would begin as a benign innocuous shrine that would evolve as his power over the world increased until it became the grandest temple of all.

With Alessandra and Gerolamo safely away in Avellino, Father Tony decided to call Przybysz to ask for transportation to America. U'Bamah's evil plan must be averted. It was time to begin counter-broadcasts to convince the people of the world of U'Bamah's true nature. It was time to flush the wolf out from under his fleece. It was imperative that the people be provided with the truth -- the only thing that could counter U'Bamah's lies.

The Movie, I Have A Dream, so titled after U'Bamah's speech opened to rave reviews across the world despite what critics described as a lackluster performance by its star Damon Campbell. When interviewed Campbell defended himself as best as he could...

"You try playing a guy that's looked upon almost as a living god," he said. "Religious figures of the past were easy to play, they were dead. There was nothing to compare them to. Do you have any idea how hard it is when people look at you and compare you to him -- expect you to be the living image of an actual live person?"

U'Bamah was profuse in his praise for Damon's performance... "He's right," U'Bamah said magnanimously. "It is incredibly difficult when you can compare people side by side. I think Mr. Campbell did a splendid job, I couldn't be happier."

U'Bamah's praises may have placated the media, but Lord Penrose remained unconvinced. He called Damon to express his displeasure. "I don't know what you hoped to accomplish with that sad, sorry acting job," he began, "but if I ever see something like that again, you'll be back doing sex shows at my parties -- and they won't be like the ones you were used to if you get my meaning."

"I'm sorry Sir," Damon explained, "he's very difficult to play, he's almost a living god. I doubt anyone could have done better."

"I think ANYONE could have done better," Penrose shouted. "Remember what I told you." Damon would remember alright, Penrose would see to that. “How's your mother Damon,” he asked. “Do you remember when you were a boy and she gave you to us -- so innocent you were. What did she tell you when you complained about the perversion and decadence? Did she hold you in her arms and sing you to sleep? I think not, so immersed in the opulent lifestyle she had become. More likely she told you to remain silent and obey. You will remember to stay silent and obey Damon…”

Damon slammed down the phone, his hand shaking both in anger and fear. It was time to seek out Gwendolyn Penrose and vanish.

Lord Penrose threw one of his gala events in honor of both the movie and U'Bamah's upcoming electoral victory which was all but a mere formality. Conspicuous in his absence was the star, Damon Campbell who, after his conversation with His Lordship had mysteriously disappeared. Gwendolyn, in hopes of gathering more information from the guest of honor, decided to attend. She arrived just after the sex show by Cheryl Layne and a newcomer to the New Hollywood a striking 15 year old Russian girl named Natalia Kisarova. U'Bamah disliked the decadence of the shows and was pleased to see Gwendolyn's arrival.

"Miss Penrose," he said with a relieved look, "I'm so happy to see you here, these exhibitions are so distasteful."

"Thank you," she replied, "and remember, it's Gwen."

They spent some time talking quietly before the more formal festivities began -- the introduction of U'Bamah and the celebration of the movie. Lord Penrose made apologies for the absence of its star, saying that he had gone on a sabbatical of sorts for his health. Gwendolyn stayed by U'Bamah's side during the formalities although he disclosed nothing of substance. He was becoming adept at being furtively forthcoming, as Damon Campbell described it, a born politician. When things quieted down, U'Bamah discretely suggested that Gwendolyn accompany him back to his own estate, a gesture she politely declined saying she didn't know him well enough yet. She knew that she would have to get closer to him in order to learn his secrets, but now was not the time.

In lieu of Gwendolyn's company, U'Bamah decided on an attractive and more than willing Cheryl Layne for companionship. After a glass of champagne for Cheryl and some small talk, they repaired to Baraq's bedroom where he began slowly undressing her, savoring the feel and taste of her. He remarked at how beautiful she looked with the moonlight bathing her nude body as it shone through the French doors. He undressed himself and began to caress her gently, kissing her neck and shoulders as he did.

They moved to the bed and began to make love, gently at first and then as their passion grew, more aggressive, with Cheryl raking his back with her nails as she arched her back in passion. Baraq felt his hands closing around her throat, instinctively more than consciously, squeezing more and more tightly. She began to struggle wildly, pummeling his chest with her fists, something that only seemed to inflame his ardor. As her breathing became more difficult, her eyes opened wide in terror. She knew from the fire in U’Bamah’s eyes that she was about to die, her flailing stopped and an eerie calm came over her.

Baraq felt somehow detached from it all, as if he was standing outside himself watching. He disengaged his right hand allowing her to catch her breath, and reached to the night table where he kept a jambiya for protection. Something inside him, something foreign yet somehow familiar seemed to be driving him. It was reminiscent of one of his dreams -- then the name came... Eddie -- he had become his father at this moment. He plunged the knife into her abdomen and the mutilation began. He stabbed her again and again, bathing himself and the bed with her blood... then he had his release, the best of his entire life.

When it was over, panic began to set in but then he remembered who he was... The son of Eddie Phillips… he was the Chosen One.

U'Bamah called Hassan to come and clean up the mess. One look around and Baraq's friend looked at him in shock. Knowing that Lord Penrose would still be awake, he next called him... the panic was gone and confusion had set in. U'Bamah was unsure of many things -- he had never behaved like this before. On one hand he was repulsed by the graphic nature of what he had just done... on the other there was a profound exhilaration. Penrose, being the one that knew his background better than any other could perhaps decypher his conflict.

Penrose laughed when Baraq explained what had happened... "Of course you did, my boy," he exclaimed, "it's in your blood."

"But I've never done anything like that before," Baraq explained. "Even in the dreams I had, it was someone else doing those things."

"Are you sure?" Penrose asked. "Maybe the dreams were just to prepare you for your becoming."

"Becoming?" Baraq inquired. "Becoming what?"

"Yourself dear boy," Penrose went on. "Becoming your father... this is all in your nature, your very essence -- it's always been there. You're just becoming what you are, what you were always meant to be."

"I'm not sure I like this..." Baraq told him, thinking about Hassan's prediction about Gwendolyn. He didn't want her to end like Cheryl.

"How did you feel while it was happening?" Penrose asked.

"I didn't feel anything," Baraq explained, "it was as though I was standing outside myself, watching."

"Of course it did," Lord Penrose said. "It began the same way for your father too. I read the transcripts of his interrogation. It almost sounds like him telling it. How about afterward?"

"At first I felt panicked," Baraq began, "but afterward a strange calm came over me. I felt powerful."

"You are powerful son," Penrose intoned, "more powerful than you know."

"But what about the girl, Cheryl?" U'Bamah asked. "She's a movie star, she'll be missed."

"Aha," Lord Penrose laughed. "She's just a piece of meat, expendable- they all are... and you can have all of them you want. You leave that to me, I'll take care of it. She'll be cremated, in accordance with her wishes. It was an unfortunate and tragic accidental drug overdose. Happens all the time -- a sad but predictable consequence of her lifestyle."

"What should I have Hassan do with the body?" Baraq asked.

"I'll have someone come by to pick it up and clean up the mess," Penrose assured him. “You never have to worry about such trivialities. Well, this is an occasion -- an occasion for a sacrifice. Your father would be very proud Baraq. Come by tomorrow evening and we'll celebrate your becoming."

Baraq, still sickened by the prospect of raping and killing children was hesitant, but dared not offend Lord Penrose, at least not for now. He may be the Chosen One but Penrose had evidence of murder: "Is this necessary?" He asked.

"If you are to rule this world, you need to learn to put aside these petty qualms," Penrose said. "You are the son of Eddie Phillips -- the embodiment of the Ancient Ones on earth. Baraq, you are the new messiah, I heard it in your voice

when you addressed the UN. Couldn't you feel the power when they applauded your speech?"

"Yes, it felt wonderful," Baraq replied. "But, I can't have sex with a child."

"That isn't necessary," Penrose told him. "You need only be present at the ceremony... your followers will be there to pay homage -- the ones that count at least. This won't be one of my usual galas. This will be a small intimate affair, I think you'll be suitably impressed."

"I don't suppose Gwendolyn will be there?" U'Bamah asked hopefully.

"No," Penrose laughed. "She hates these things, if it wasn't for my money, she'd probably turn me in. You like my daughter don't you?"

"Yes, very much," Baraq admitted. "I very much like spending time with her." Hassan’s prophesy weighed heavily on him, he understood his new role and much of what it entailed but he had vowed to himself to never harm the daughter of his new mentor.

"Why not ask her to the opera," Penrose suggested. "She adores the opera. It would get you on her good side." The prospect of a relationship between U'Bamah and his daughter thrilled Lord Penrose -- such a match would cement his hold on the new world leader.

It was with a good deal of trepidation that Father Tony left Sicily. He called Gerolamo to advise him to keep a close eye on Alessandra. Without his calming effect there was no telling what she would do in his absence. He cautioned Gerolamo that any unprovoked acts of violence would upset the already delicate balance and bring the wrath of the UN troops upon them. As he awaited Przybysz' plane to touch down at the airport in Catania, his thoughts turned to America. The lawyer, Collins, had arranged a transportation visa. Father Tony was returning to America to visit relatives. Collins himself would accompany him to make certain there were no issues with immigration authorities. If U'Bamah was to be stopped, he must first be unmasked in front of the whole world. Father Tony wondered if he was up to the task.

The flight to America was pleasant... Collins proved to be an interesting travelling companion, if something of an enigma. He was a member of the Council, but not a believer in the more esoteric aspects of the organization. He had come to the Councils as an attorney, for his legal expertise and then recruited. His friendship with the Doctor and his dedication to his former friend cemented his place within the group. Collins had witnessed the religious zeal with which the Councils had unleashed the viral pandemic upon the world, the vaccines bioengineered to finish the job the manufactured virus had begun. Every pandemic from the Spanish Flu of 1918 had been the work of the Councils -- influenza, polio, Ebola, and AIDs and all had gotten rich from the vaccines, all designed to make every subsequent outbreak more deadly than the last. The Doctor had protested but all of his protestations had fallen on dead ears -- there was money to be made, and lots of it. Fealty to the vision of the Ancient Ones had been usurped by rank materialism and political expediency, Collins and the Doctor both knew it. But the Doctor was dead now and as they flew, Collins began pressing the priest about his faith.

Father Tony patiently explained the spiritual aspects of the upcoming conflict and their overall implications, citing Ephesians 6:12 “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness …” and other passages to explain exactly who U'Bamah is and the prophecies behind it all. By the time they reached their destination, Father Tony had another convert. Collins would be baptized, not so much out of a new found faith, but because he was a cautious man who wasn't taking any chances. Father Tony figured that with Collins, as it did with many others, faith would come later. When they reached the airport in Ft. Smith, Przybysz' limo was waiting to take them to Dick's mountain compound where Bret Shoemaker was waiting.

Bret, Leo Rosen and Father Tony began planning the broadcasts right away, not wanting to waste any more time than was absolutely necessary. They would be transmitted worldwide anonymously using the satellite intercept that Uwe had designed -- they would be called The Voice of Truth. Father Tony would do the narrations citing scripture that would reveal to the world who and what U'Bamah really was. Bret Shoemaker would provide context making comparisons with recent history where applicable. It was highly unlikely that they could affect the outcome of the election, but it might stop U'Bamah from getting more converts. This wasn't about elections to Father Tony, it was about saving souls. They would begin with the verse from Ephesians and by exposing the origins and meaning of U'Bamah's name.

When U'Bamah arrived for his ceremony he looked around for any sign of Gwendolyn, but there were none -- she had gone out for the evening, much to Baraq's disappointment. He had no illusions about her attending, but he had hoped to connect with her later on after the festivities were done. One of the servants, a dignified looking black man dressed in a black robe, escorted him to a room near the back of the residence where he found a red satin robe laid out in preparation for him.

"Lord Penrose instructed me to escort you personally to the ceremony after you put on the robe Sir," the servant said solemnly, bowing stiffly at the waist.

U'Bamah began to don the red robe when the valet spoke again: "It's customary to wear nothing under the robe, Sir." he said, eyes averted.

"You expect me to get undressed in front of you?" U'Bamah asked with an incredulous look.

"I'll step outside for a moment Sir," the servant said smiling politely.

Feeling somewhat embarrassed, U'Bamah removed his clothes and put on the satin robe, pulling the hood up over his head. When the servant returned a few moments later they proceeded into a long hallway at the end of which was a heavy oaken door. The other man drummed five times on the door with his fist before opening it to reveal a large room lit only by candles. In the dim light, Baraq could make out an altar about three or so feet high at the far end, behind which was a gilded throne. The carpet was a dark wine red and the walls were all draped in black. Inside ten or twelve people in black robes stood chatting amiably amongst themselves. When they saw U'Bamah enter they all turned to him, bowing slightly from the waist.

U'Bamah had mixed feelings about all of the pomp and circumstance, on one hand he felt kind of silly, this was much different treatment than he was used to, but on the other hand, there was a strange sense of elation. He was still somewhat suspicious of Lord Penrose's intentions for him. He was determined not to take part in any perverse sexual acts He dutifully followed the servant who led him to the throne. He stood in front of it for a minute, unsure of what to do next. It was clear that the throne was for him, but he didn't know if it was the proper time to sit or not, thinking it better to do nothing for the moment. As if sensing Baraq's uncertainty, the servant placed his hand gently on his shoulder directing him to be seated.

Lord Penrose, clad in a creme colored robe entered, a cowl pulled up over his head and although his face was obscured, his carriage was unmistakable. At his side was a small black boy of six or seven years -- it was clear from the look in his eyes he had been drugged into docility. Although he was in a semi-stupor the boy was clearly terrified. Penrose led the boy to the altar where the servant who had escorted U'Bamah to the ceremony assisted him in placing the child atop it.

Turning to address the gathering, His Lordship intoned in a deep solemn voice: "The day we have so long awaited has finally arrived. The Chosen One -- The Son of the one selected by the Night Gods to fulfill their destiny here on Earth by carrying the blood of the Chosen One, Eddie Phillips, has arrived and has now become. The Ancient Ones in the flesh -- our Messiah is finally here to rule over this earth... the dreams of his Fathers are now realized in him."

Penrose and the others turned to face U'Bamah seated on his gilded throne and bowed deeply. Somewhat embarrassed and unsure exactly what to do, he raised his hand. On the altar the boy sat watching, eyes wide with bewilderment. With a nod from Lord Penrose the servant and another man approached the boy and held him down while the others dropped their robes to reveal an even mix of men and women. While the two men held the terrified struggling boy, the men took turns sodomizing him while the women watched eyes glistening with anticipation, his moans and struggles only seemed to intensify their excitement. When they finished satisfying their lust, Dr. Van Sloane stepped forward clutching a ceremonial dagger with both hands high above his head. Mumbling something inaudible he plunged it into the boy's chest, expertly removing the boy's still beating heart, holding it triumphantly above his head.

Penrose took the heart from Van Sloane and walked with it to the throne where he pressed it gently against U'Bamah's forehead leaving a bloody spot. The others gathered around the altar and began smearing their bodies with the dead boy's blood. U'Bamah sat immobile, watching, his emotions mixed with disgust at what he had just witnessed, and elation that this was all for his benefit. When they had finished, the servant removed the boy's corpse. All present turned to the throne and knelt, bowing deeply before rising.

Lord Penrose and the others once again donned their robes, His Lordship addressing the guests: "It is done. The becoming is complete and the Ancient Ones live once more in the flesh and are among us in the person of our Messiah -- Baraq U'Bamah."

"Baraq U'Bamah," the gathering intoned reverently. The celebrants bowing once more to their Messiah then began chatting amiably among themselves as if nothing out of the ordinary had ever transpired. Lord Penrose approached U'Bamah saying: "Not quite what you're used to is it my boy -- you'll get used to it. It isn't every day that one becomes a living god, and gods require sacrifices. Come with me, son, I have a surprise for you."

Baraq followed Penrose into the room where their clothes were and after showering the dead boy's blood from themselves, once again put on their clothes. Lord Penrose led him to a different part of the house where they found the Russian girl, Natalia, who had performed with Cheryl at the party only one night earlier. "I hope you're pleased with this modest offering," Penrose said smiling.

The girl, Natalia, looked up and smiled shyly at Baraq who smiled back. She had a radiance, innocent despite the perversion she had been a part of. She accompanied him willingly to his estate, but after what he had seen at Lord Penrose's he wasn't much in the mood for anything but sleep. Natalia cuddled up next to him expectantly, but he kissed her forehead and tried to sleep. As he closed his eyes he could still visualize the terrified face of the boy, eyes wide as he was abused over and over by Penrose and his consorts. The last thing he saw before drifting off into an uneasy sleep was the death mask of the dead boy -- eyes wide and staring accusingly at him. U'Bamah was no stranger to death, but this was different.

His slumber was punctured by one of his recurrent dreams, but instead of the usual "Eddie," this time it was "Baraq," as if chanted by a chorus of the dead. He tossed and turned hoping subconsciously not to disturb the sleeping Natalia. When he awoke, groggy from a night of unpeaceful sleep, he first felt dampness... when he opened his eyes he was staring into the wide-eyed lifeless gaze of Natalia, his bed soaked with her blood as was he. He shook himself fully awake getting up from the bed to survey the carnage. Pieces of the dead girl were everywhere, her torso mutilated almost beyond recognition. He staggered to a nearby chair and sank into it, covering his face with his hands, he wept bitterly. The dreams of his fathers had cost the Russian girl her life.

The Voice of Truth

Baraq U'Bamah's final speech before the upcoming election had no sooner begun when another voice came over the air preempting him. It was the voice of Father Tony Pavaglio and his Voice of Truth broadcast coming out of the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas. After a brief introduction by Bret Shoemaker, a voice that many around the world had come to trust and look forward to with great anticipation. The former priest began with the passage from Ephesians and then by explaining the meaning of U'Bamah's name, quoting scripture from Isaiah and Luke that depict Satan as a flash of lightning from on high. He went on to explain the rise of the spirit of antichrist in the latter days, how even many of the most devout would be deceived and issued a stern warning against following him.

"This is the Voice of Truth," the polished voice told his listeners, "Baraq U'Bamah is not who he claims to be, nor is he who many of you think he is. He does not represent peace and hope for the world as he says. The Bible warns of an imposter in the end times -- a man who will come forward promising peace but delivering death and destruction. He is the spirit of evil. He is an antichrist. He promises a new age if you follow and worship him and a new age he will deliver -- an age of desolation, famine, pestilence and death. He is a liar -- he is the father of all lies. Do not be led astray by empty promises... he despises you and all that is good, as do the people he represents here on earth. If you follow him, you will be enslaved or killed. Look to your Bible for answers not to this charlatan. You are the answer, not U'Bamah. The truth is not in him -- he is evil. Do not be taken in by this imposter. I must go now, but will be back soon. This is the Voice of Truth, God's truth. Trust in God and He will deliver you. Let us pray together." Father Tony finished with the 23rd Psalm.

Back in Geneva U'Bamah was beside himself with fury, lashing out at anyone within shouting distance -- but there was another in Geneva who listened to the broadcast with an air of hope. President Arturo Oliveira hoped against hope that the priest's broadcast would sway the outcome of the election in his favor, although by now it was little more than a mere formality. It was in this hopeful mood that he was interrupted by his telephone... it was his assistant:

"I have former President Beck on 2, Mr. President."

What would Beck be doing calling him with the election almost surely lost now. "Put him on," Oliveira said reluctantly.

"Good morning, Mr. President," Beck said pleasantly.

Oliveira could almost see him gloating. "Mr. Beck," Oliveira replied, "this is a surprise. What can I do for you?"

"I have some good news, Mr. President," Beck told the surprised man.

"Is it about the election?" Oliveira asked hopefully.

"No, not exactly," Beck replied. "Maybe better. His Lordship wants to invite you to his home this evening."

"Lord Penrose?" Oliveira was beyond surprised. His mind began to race -- what would Penrose want with him? He was backing U'Bamah, that was clear enough. "Is it one of his parties?"

"His Lordship would like you to be present at a small gathering of intimate friends this evening." Beck went on, "...and he'd like you to bring your daughter along."

"Alexa?" Oliveira froze, his blood ran cold. So that was it. "Why Alexa, she's only eight?" Oliveira was confused but more than a little bit afraid. In fact he was terrified. He knew about Penrose's parties and he, like everyone in a position of power, had heard the rumors. "I don't think her mother..."

"His Lordship was most insistent," Beck told him. "Be at his estate at 8:00 and bring your daughter. Dress is casual."

"But what does Lord Penrose want of Alexa, she's only a child?" Oliveira asked. He was beginning to sweat and he was shaking almost uncontrollably.

"His Lordship doesn't confide in me, I can assure you," Beck replied flatly. "If you have any expectations whatever of staying in government service at any level at all, this is the sacrifice you'll have to make."

So that was it. The message was implicit but clear enough, even for Oliveira. Penrose wanted his daughter for one of his sick, sadistic rituals. He thought for a moment before answering. "Tell His Lordship I... we'll be there."

"Good choice," Beck told him before hanging up.

Oliveira sank into his chair covering his face with his hands, thinking about what he'd just agreed to. What if they killed her? What would he tell his wife? What would he tell himself? He'd heard the stories that child sacrifice wasn't uncommon at these gatherings. His Alexa -- she was the light of his life. She had come late, after he and his wife had given up on having children and they both doted on her. Maybe they were just rumors created to scare people. No, people didn't make up stuff like that about someone like Lord Penrose if there wasn't anything to it. Maybe he only wanted her for sex. Even that was too terrible to contemplate. What had he done? He shook his head sadly. Maybe he should pack up his family and run away, but where? He suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to throw up.