Assassin’s Creed: Legends of the Lú-ga-šum

Akkad was burning. Inkishush had just killed Shar-Kali-Sharri.

Inkishush now made his way to the edge of the ziggurat.

He held his arms towards the heavens, as he proudly proclaimed;

" The first empire has crumbled. The first dynasty has ended. And it is all thanks to us; the people- FROM THE MOUNTAINS! "

Inkishush could feel something behind him. He jumped out of the way, as something had jumped down from the top of the ziggurat.

" Ah " said Inkishush with a smile, as he got back up; " the traitor "

" I serve the light " said the hooded figure; " not you "

Inkishush looked, as a bat flew off from the figure's shoulder.

A Gutian came charging at the figure with an axe.

The figure calmly moved out of the way. He then held out his right arm. Two hidden blades were now visible - one from the top of his wrist, and one from under his wrist.

The figure punched at the axe-wielder, leaving behind a vampiric-bite-mark on the neck of the dead Gutian.

Inkishush grinned, as the figure smirked.

The two of them charged at one another. And it is now time for me to tell the tale of; Assassin's Creed; In the Land Between the Two Rivers.

The Gutians; pale skin, blonde hair, and red eyes. The children of Rabisu, The Mesopotamian Dracula.

The Gutians are also known by another name; Edimmu, the bloodsuckers, the vampires.

There are two among the Gutians. Siblings; Mušen Mâr lā Mammâna and Kubaba Sēgallu.

These two are unique, different. Unlike the rest of the Gutians; neither Mušen nor Kubaba are driven mad by the hunger, the thirst.

Brother and sister both live during the time of the Akkadian Empire. During the Empire's final hours.

The Gutians are watching from atop the Zagros Mountains. They can see opportunity. They can smell the blood, as the hunger can be seen from their glowing red eyes.

Mušen and Kubaba have both taken on the impossible task of stopping their people. They have tried to warn the Lugal of Akkad. But, Shar-Kali-Sharri is mistrusting of any and all Gutians.

So, the two siblings have to find another way…

But they are not alone in their endeavor. There is Sinuhe the Egyptian. A dear and old friend of Mušen and Kubaba. There is also Anzû, Mušen's vampire bat companion. There is also another; Enlil the god, who only appears to speak with Mušen. BUT! This Enlil is not who Mušen thinks. This Enlil is different, someone else, more on that later.

" Nin(sister) " said Mušen, as he entered the cave-home; " I have brought dinner "

" Great " said Kubaba with her glowing smile; " and I have prepared some Ebla beer "

(Real quick. Other than having pale skin, blonde hair, and red eyes. The two siblings also have another unique physical feature. Mušen has the Deq for the moon. And Kubaba has the Deq for the sun. Both these tattoos are located across the middle of the nose. And yes; they also have vampire fangs.)

Mušen and Kubaba both looked on, as one of the rabbits, which Mušen had caught, now ran away.

" Was it still alive? " said Mušen, surprised.

" Novice, " said Kubaba with a smile.

The two of them lost their parents at a young age, when they were just children. Ever since then; they have looked out for each other.

" Sorry that I am late, " said Sinuhe, as he had brought some Egyptian bread.

Anzû landed on Mušen's right arm.

" Looks like the whole family is gathered, " said Mušen, as everyone started to eat.

Mušen was making his way to Akkad, for Kubaba had a mystery to solve.

As Mušen was walking, he noticed an upset looking Akkadian.

Like Haytham meeting Ben Franklin for the first time. Mušen walked over and asked Ishkun-Dagan What troubles him?

" Your people! " was the answer.

Mušen quickly realized that he was of no help. So he just continued walking.

Enlil now appeared out of thin air.

" Lord Enlil " said Mušen, as he knelt.

" Mušen, my champion, what do you intend to do? "

" I intend to plea with Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri, one more time "

" Have you not already tried? Has he not refused your warning? "

" I must try again! " said Mušen with emotion and raised voice; " forgive me… "

Enlil giggled.

" I shall not hinder you, but do heed my words; be careful. That is all I ask "

Enlil now vanished into thin air, and Mušen had now arrived at Akkad.

The kingdom was breathtaking. The people were dancing, while enjoying the wonders of life.

" If only they knew… " said Mušen with a solemn look, as he made his way to the ziggurat palace.

The guards of the palace gasped, as Mušen dropped down before them.

" Take me to your leader, " said Mušen with a smile.

Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri looked on from his throne, as his guards brought Mušen.

Mušen was forced to his knees.

" Hmmm " said Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri, as he arose from his throne.

" Great king, great lugal " said Mušen, as he hid his face under his hood; " I come before you, once more, to warn you of the coming Gutian attack "

Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri noticed Mušen's pale arms, for all the Akkadians, and Sumerians, were tanned like caramel.

Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri motianned to his guards to remove Mušen's hood. That was when a gasp filled the throne room, as everyone saw the white skin, golden hair, and crimson eyes.

Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri giggled.

" I see now " said he; " the Gutians sendt one of their own to fool me, to deceive me "

A serious look befell Mušen.

" What could the Gutians possibly gain by deceiving with a false attack? "

Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri knelt before Mušen.

" You tell me "

" You do not believe me? "

" Why should I? "

" Have you not heard of the Gutian raids near your borders? "

Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri giggled once more, as he arose.

" Insignificant skirmishes "

" More like; the calm before the storm "

" I am the King of Sumer and Akkad! " said Shar-Kali-Sharri, as he pointed a finger at Mušen; " I am the son of Naram-Sin! great grandson of Sargon the Great! My dynasty shall be eternal, my legacy everlasting! "

Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri paused for a moment. He then smiled.

" And IF your people, the people of the mountains, the children of Rabisu. If the Gutians come, then I shall do as every other Akkadian king did before me; and conquer them all; both in body and in spirit "

" You are making a mistake… "

" Get this damn lú-ga-šum(assassin) out of my sight " said Lugal Shar-Kali-Sharri, as he sat back down on his throne.

" You are making a mistake! " yelled Mušen, as the guards were dragging him away; " thousands will die! I am trying to help!!! "

It was now nightfall, as Mušen was walking through the cold desert.

" I told you, " said Kubaba, as she was sitting by a campfire. The fire's glow making her golden hair glow.

" I only wanted to help… " said Mušen with his back turned.

Kubaba sighed.

" Brother, you need an outlet "

" I have plenty of outlets "

" I meant other than vaginas "

Mušen turned to look at his sister.

" I have needs "

Kubaba rolled her eyes.

Anzû landed on Mušen's shoulder.

" Hey old friend, " said Mušen, as the two of them rubbed their noses together.

" Perhaps… if I tried again "

" Brother… "

" Third time's the charm! "

" Brother! "

Kubaba arose.

" If you go back there… I fear that Shar-Kali-Sharri won't let you leave alive "

" I must do something… "

" We can't " said Kubaba with a sorrowful smile; " the attack is in a few days "

" what if… " said Mušen with a grievous look; " what if we were to kill… "

" We can't kill our own people, " said Kubaba with a serious look and tone.

" They intend to kill thousands "

Kubaba sighed.

" Brother. Even if we wanted to, we can't. It would be two against hundreds, all of them like us - Edimmu(vampires) "

Mušen was quiet.

" I have to do something!! "

" Too much haste is too little speed! " yelled Kubaba.

" Don't you quote father at me! "

" That was Plato! "

" Who is that?! "

Both siblings laughed.

Kubaba let out one more sigh. She looked at her brother, and then said, with a warm smile.

" You need to find someone who sees the man, and not the beast "

Days went by, and the attack finally happened. The Gutians came down from the mountains, and stormed Akkad.

Shar-Kali-Sharri was murdered by Inkishush. With blood on his hands and mouth. Inkishush proudly proclaimed the words at the beginning of this story.

History had happened; as it was written.

But.

This lú-ga-šum was not done yet.

Enlil appeared before Mušen one more time.

Enlil showed Mušen to a cave; filled with weapons from the present and future.

" These will aid you in your up-coming endeavor "

" I don't know how to use half of these… " said Mušen with an overwhelmed look.

Enlil smiled.

" Worry not. For I shall pass that knowledge upon you "

Enlil placed his thumb on Mušen's forehead, and the knowledge was passed on.

The Gutians standing guard at the bottom of the conquered ziggurat palace. Looked on, as a hooded Mušen approached.

" Where is your army? " said one Gutian, mockenly.

Mušen smiled.

" Bitch, I am the army "

Mušen's cloak fell to the ground, revealing weapons of all kinds.

Mušen killed the guards, and now started to ascend the ziggurat.

With each step Mušen took, he killed a Gutian warrior; at the cost of one of his weapons.

Mušen had finally reached the top, and that was the Gutian standing guard said;

" You are out of weapons "

The guard looked on, as Mušen's double bladed hidden blade popped out from his right wrist.

The guard had a look of; you have got to be kidding me...

The guard was dealt with, and Mušen now entered the throne room, where he then said;

" Arrogant monarch "

Inkishush was sitting on the throne; wearing the horned crown.

" Ah, the traitor, " said Inkishush with a grin.

Mušen approached, but that was when he stopped, as Humbaba, champion of Inkishush, and giant of a man, stood in his way.

" It seems like the gods have abandoned you, " said Inkishush.

" I beg to differ, " said Mušen with a smile.

" Oh " said Inkishush, surprised; " how so? "

" Let me show you, " said Mušen, as a shot went off.

Inkishush looked on, as Humbaba fell dead to the floor, as Mušen was holding a smoking gun.

" Hmmm " said Inkishush, calmly; " perhaps there are some gods looking out for you… just not our gods "

" What do you mean? " said Mušen, confused.

" You will find out, soon enough "

Inkishush made his way to the back of the throne.

" Do you know why I sought the Akkadian throne? "

" Enlighten me "

" I wanted this, " said Inkishush, as he held up a Piece of Eden.

Mušen was forced to his knees.

" What… " uttered Mušen, as his body felt heavy and weak.

Inkishush approached, as the Piece of Eden was glowing in his hands.

" It is said; that this artifacts was left behind by the Anunnaki, before they traveled back to Nibiru "

Inkishush was now standing over a kneeling Mušen.

" Finish it then… "

Inkishush giggled.

" No "

Mušen glared up at Inkishush.

" Let our first ancestor pass judgment upon you "

A blinding light came bursting from the Piece of Eden.

When Mušen could see again, he was at an unknown location. He was walking on water, while surrounded by darkness.

Mušen bumped into someone. He turned around, and that was when he uttered;

" First ancestor… Rabisu "

Rabisu, who looked a lot like Castlevania Dracula(but with blonde hair and beard), towered over Mušen.

Mušen bowed, but that was when Rabisu slapped him to the side.

" Fight "

Mušen got back on his feet. He growled; fangs visible.

Rabisu grinned; fangs visible.

A duel now broke out between these two vampires. Back and forth they went, till Rabisu was able to pinned Mušen to the ground.

Rabisu now bit into Mušen's neck.

Mušen could feel his strength, blood, and life, all leaving him.

Mušen quickly activated his double bladed hidden blade, and ran it into Rabisu's neck.

Rabisu cried out in pain, as he got off Mušen.

Mušen, pale as death, and loss of a lot of blood, tried to crawl away. But that was when Rabisu picked him up, and held him in a bear hug.

" I have had my fill of your blood. Now, let us hear your bones crack "

Mušen could feel his bones about to burst. That was when he noticed the blood coming down from Rabisu's neck.

With his last strength. Mušen bit into Rabisu's neck.

Rabisu fell to his knees, as Mušen was drinking him dry.

The Mesopotamian Dracula was dead, and another was born.

Mušen noticed how everything looked normal, and yet strange. For Mušen was not in Akkad, he was in the middle of the desert.

" I have to get back to Akkad… " uttered Mušen, his mouth covered in blood, and his body slowly healing.

Enlil now appeared before Mušen.

" Lord Enlil… I have to return to Akkad… I have to finish this… "

" No "

" What…? " said Mušen in shock and surprise; " why not…? "

" Akkad has fallen, as history has decreed. There is nothing you can do, " said Enlil, calmly.

Mušen fell to his knees.

" Then… What should I do? What of my sister…? What of me…? "

Enlil smiled, as he said;

" Kubaba has gone to Egypt, along with Sinuhe. Where she will solve the Khem Mystery. You two shall go elsewhere "

" Two? "

Anzû landed on Mušen's shoulder.

Mušen giggled, as Anzû lovingly rubbed against his master's cheek.

" Where will we go? "

" You shall travel north west, where the woman - who will see the man; awaits "

Mušen knelt over the corpse of Rabisu.

" May the Queen of the Great Below, welcome you within Bright Dilmun "

Rabisu's remains vanished in fire. And Mušen, with Anzû, now made his way north west; towards the Balkans.

We find ourselves at one of the Balkan islands, where a woman was heading towards a Temple of Athena.

A fisherman noticed the woman's black silken hair. Her marble skin. And her deep blue eyes.

The fisherman put away his trident, and followed the woman into the temple.

The woman placed her offerings before the statue of Athena. She said her prayer, and was ready to leave. That was when the fisherman pinned her to the ground.

" No! Please don't! " pleaded the woman, as the fisherman was taking her clothes off.

Mušen grabbed the fisherman by the hair. He then threw the fisherman to the wall.

" Malaka... " said the woman, as she got to cover.

The fisherman was dead.

Mušen walked up to the woman. The woman pulled out a knife. Mušen raised both his hands, as he took a step back.

" Do you also want your way with me! " yelled the woman.

Mušen shook his head.

" What do you want?! "

" I wanted to make sure that you were safe "

" Oh " said the woman, surprised.

Mušen nodded, and now started to leave.

" Wait! "

Mušen looked back at the woman.

" Who are you? " said the woman, as she noticed the red glowing eyes from under the hood.

Mušen smiled.

" I am a hidden one "

" What? " said the woman with a smile.

Mušen let out a soft laugh. He then took off his hood, and that was when the woman looked on in awe.

" Golden hair… crimson eyes… you are not from around here "

" Is it that obvious? "

The woman giggled.

" What is your name? " said the woman, as she walked closer.

" Mušen. And may I have the honor of knowing your name? "

The woman smirked.

" Medusa "

" It is an honor to meet you, Medusa, " said Mušen with a bow, as he kissed Medusa's hand.

" I think I might like you, " said Medusa.

" If you don't mind me asking; where are we? " said Mušen, as he was walking with Medusa.

" We are on a island, by the name of: Kephallonia "

" Kephallonia… "

(This is Kephallonia, during the Mycenaean era)

The two of them had now arrived at Medusa's home.

Medusa walked in, as Mušen halted at the door.

" What is it? "

" Do I have permission to enter your home? "

" Sure… " said Medusa, a little confused.

Mušen smiled, as he entered the house.

" Do you live alone? " asked Mušen, as he looked around the big house.

" No "

" Oh. Who do you live with? "

" With my pet "

" Your pet? "

Mušen now looked on, as a snake appeared.

" Hello, Cetus " said Medusa, lovingly; " did you miss me? "

Mušen looked on, as Medusa and Cetus rubbed noses together.

" Scared? " said Medusa with a smile.

Mušen smiled.

Medusa looked on, as Anzû flew through the window; and landed on Mušen's shoulder.

" Hmmm " said Medusa with a smile, as she put Cetus down. Anzû landed in front of Cetus. The bat and the snake now rubbed their noses together.

" Catch, " said Medusa, as she threw an apple at Mušen.

Medusa was about to take a bite of her apple, but that was when she noticed Mušen's vampiric fangs, as he opened his mouth.

" What? "

" Nothing… " said Medusa.

As Mušen was looking out a window. Medusa walked over to a bucket of water. She looked at her teeth, and noticed that she did not have any fangs.

" Hmmm " said Medusa, as she looked back at Mušen.

Night had now replaced day.

" You can sleep here " said Medusa; " oh, and there is only one bed; so we have to share " said Medusa with a smile, as she took off her clothes.

Mušen was speechless, as he smiled. But he did take Medusa up on her offer.

To make a short story shorter. Mušen and Medusa spent many happy years together. Till one year, a child was born.

Mušen was standing over his son's crib.

" I assure you " said Medusa with a smile; " he is yours "

Mušen giggled.

" Of that; I have no doubt, " said Mušen, as his son had black hair and red eyes.

" What shall we name him? " asked Medusa.

" I was hoping for a name from among your people "

" Why my people? "

" So our son can fit in better "

Medusa just looked at Mušen.

" You are never going to talk about your past "

" You promised that you would not pry… "

" I know, I know… but. I have been wondering, for all these years; just who have I let into my home and life… a monarch?, an exile? - Medusa paused - a murder? "

Mušen looked at Medusa.

" Hmm. Oh well " said Medusa, as she shrugged her shoulders; " let the past stay in the past. Right now, you are kind and caring, which is all that matters to me, " said Medusa, as she placed her hand on Mušen's cheek.

" I do not deserve you, " said Mušen.

" I know "

Mušen giggled.

" Well " said Mušen, as he turned to their son; " what shall we name him? "

Medusa looked, and saw how their son was holding Mušen's finger. She then looked at Mušen's golden hair. Medusa smiled, and then said;

" Chrysaor "

" Oh? " said Mušen with a smile; " does that name have some kind of meaning? "

" He who has a golden sword "

Mušen looked down at his son, and noticed that Chrysaor was holding his finger. He pointed at his golden hair, and then at himself, and then said, softly;

" Me? "

The years went by, as the happy family enjoyed life. But, as they say; all good things must come to an end.

Mušen was sitting on a bench, outside the house, overlooking the beach.

Medusa, covered in a small blanket, walked over to her husband.

The sunset made Medusa's platinum hair shine, while Mušen's still golden hair glowed.

Medusa sat beside her husband. Time has been kind to Medusa. Despite her old age, she was still beautiful as ever.

Medusa rested her head on Mušen's young shoulder.

The warm wind flew past the two of them.

" I like the sound of your heart " said Medusa, as she now rested her head on Mušen's chest.

Mušen was quiet.

" What is it? " asked Medusa in a gentle voice.

" I am cursed… "

Medusa giggled.

" Many would call it a blessing. You have what many would kill for "

" I did not want it… "

" But you have it, " said Medusa, as she gently massaged Mušen's cheek.

Mušen kissed her hand.

The two of them sat like that for a while.

" I have been wondering, " said Medusa.

" Yes? "

" Will you love after me? "

Mušen thought about it. He smiled, and then said;

" Yes "

" Oh… "

" I will love our son "

Medusa laughed.

" And his children, and their children… but " said Mušen, as he raised Medusa's face by her chin; " I will never love anyone; as I have loved you "

" I do not deserve you, " said Medusa.

" I know "

Medusa let out a soft giggle.

Things were quiet, as the sun was vanishing into the sea.

" I just hope that it won't rain... " said Medusa, as her breathing was getting weaker.

" Yeah… me too… " said Mušen, as he started to cry.

Anzû cried as Cetus died.

Mušen buried both Medusa and Cetus at the hill overlooking the beach.

Mušen cut his hand, so that blood appeared.

" Oh gods of this land. I beseech you all; please make sure that my wife and Cetus both safely arrive at the Elysium Fields. In exchange; I offer my blood "

A drop of blood now landed on the spot where both Medusa and Cetus were buried.

Mušen looked on in disappointment, as the wound on his hand healed.

Mušen now saw the sad look on Anzû's face.

" I know… I know… " said Mušen with damp eyes.

An old Chrysaor opened his eyes, to see his father standing over him with a smile on his face.

" Pater… " uttered Chrysaor with a smile, as he held out his arms.

Mušen embraced his son.

" My boy… my baby boy… "

Father now buried his son. The blood was offered, but something strange happened; which I will tell more of in the future.

Mušen made his way to Egypt. He entered the home of Kubaba and Sinuhe, for the two of them were married. But Sinuhe was not there, Kubaba was.

Mušen now saw her. His sister, weak and old, resting on her bed.

" Nin! " exclaimed Mušen through his gritted teeth, as his eyes dampened.

Mušen rushed over to Kubaba's bedside. He took her by the hand, and as the tears ran down his face. He said, with a broken voice;

" Sister… "

Kubaba gently opened her eyes.

" Brother… " said Kubaba with a warm smile.

Time had also been kind to Kubaba. Her golden hair was now platinum. Her skin was wrinkled, yet fair. And her red eyes were still glowing with life.

" Forgive me " said Mušen, as he held her hand to his forehead; " I should have come sooner… I- "

" Shhh " said Kubaba, gently, as she massaged her brother's cheek;

" Now is not the time for regrets. But for proper farewells "

Mušen gathered all his strength, as he nodded in agreement.

" Brother " said Kubaba; " may I ask a favor? "

" Anything, " said Mušen without hesitation.

" Could you make sure that I am mummified? "

Mušen looked at his sister in shock.

" Mummified?… but, these are not our gods "

" I know, and may Ereshkigal forgive me " said Kubaba with a smile; " but I promised Sinuhe that I would join him in the Field of Reeds "

Mušen's eyes widened, as he understood.

" He probably can't find an ounce of peace till you have arrived "

Kubaba let out a soft giggle.

" Don't worry, I will see to it "

" Thank you… brother… "

With tears streaming down his face; Mušen said:

" Don't go where I can't follow… "

Kubaba smiled sadly.

" Forgive me… "

Mušen looked at her and said:

" Always. "

He then looked on, as his sister breathed her last.

And all of Egypt could now hear his lament.

Mušen carried Kubaba's body to a dear and trusted Egyptian priest.

" Wait in here " said the priest, as he led Mušen to the room where the sarcophagus was.

Mušen walked up to the sarcophagus, where he saw the mummified body of Sinuhe.

The head of Sinuhe turned towards Mušen.

Mušen smiled.

" Hello, old friend, " said Mušen, as he placed a hand on Sinuhe's shoulder.

Time passed, and the priest now walked up to Mušen, saying;

" It is done "

Mušen entered the room, where he beheld the mummified body of his sister.

Mušen picked up Kubaba, and placed her next to Sinuhe. He then closed the sarcophagus.

" I am sure that you would like it moved to another location " said the priest; " I know some men who- "

The priest stopped short, as he beheld Mušen easily pick up the heavy sarcophagus.

Mušen placed the sarcophagus deep underneath the Zagros Mountains. He then filled the room with all manners of Egyptian and Mesopotamian riches.

With that done. Mušen sealed off the room.

He then made his way towards his stone coffin, which was located above the room with the sarcophagus.

Mušen lay down. He then closed the stone coffin, and rested for some decades.

Mušen awoke.

He made his way towards Qurnah.

Enlil now appeared before Mušen.

" Lord Enlil " said Mušen, as he knelt.

" You have been through much, my son "

Mušen was quiet, as Enlil let out a soft sigh.

Mušen arose, and now started to walk towards the tree located at Qurnah.

" Why did you summon me here? " said Mušen, as he admired the old tree.

" I wished to talk "

" About what? "

" The truth "

" What truth? " said Mušen with a smile.

" Can I be honest with you? "

" Of course "

" That is good to know " said Enlil with a smile;

" Oh, and I'm not Enlil, " said Juno, as she revealed herself.

Mušen looked at Juno in horror and confusion.

Juno saw Mušen activate his double bladed hidden blade.

" Are you going to kill me? " said Juno with a calm smile.

Mušen was quiet, as his breathing got faster and faster.

" A lot of things are running through my mind. And honestly; I don't know what to do… "

Juno smiled, as an apple fell down on Mušen's head.

Mušen picked up the apple, but it was no ordinary apple; it was a Piece of Eden.

The artifact flew into Juno's hand.

" Who are you…? " uttered Mušen.

" I am your mother "

Mušen could feel his heart stop beating for a second.

" Biologically? " he asked.

" Adopted "

" Oh… wait, WHAT?! "

The Piece of Eden activated. And in front of Juno and Mušen appeared a floating screen, showing a map of the world.

There were two dots on the map. One on Egypt, and the other on Kephallonia.

" I called you here to thank you, " said Juno.

" For what? "

Juno smiled her sexy smile, as Mušen dreaded what she would say next.

" Your people are the children of Rabisu? "

" Yeah… "

" Did you know that Rabisu was a pure blooded Isu? "

" What is your point? - Mušen paused - what the hell is a Isu? "

" Your people carry within them some of the purest Isu dna. And it is thanks to you and Kubaba that our Isu dna gets spread across the world "

Before Mušen could asked; what the hell she meant. He looked on, as the two dots on the map; started to spread across the world.

" Your descendants all inherited your adventurous' spirit "

Mušen looked on in disbelief.

" From the wintery lands of the north. To the far lands of the east. To the vast lands of the west. And everything; in between "

Mušen was speechless, as he realized that he had descendants across the world.

" The quality may be lacking, but the quantity sure makes up for it " said Juno, as she closed her hand at the map.

Juno could see the speechless look on Mušen's face.

" Well " said Juno; " that's all I came here to say "

Juno was about to leave, but that was when Mušen said;

" Wait "

Juno turned to look at Mušen.

" Answer me this one thing " said Mušen with a serious and sincere look; " Why don't I age?... Why can't I die?... "

" Those are two things, " said Juno with a smile.

Mušen just looked at her.

" Please… answer me "

Juno sighed. She then said;

" When you drank Rabisu's blood. You became Rabisu, you became Dracula "

Mušen had only one thing to say;

" Who? "

Juno giggled.

" Trust me. It will make sense in a couple of thousands of years "

Mušen raised his arm towards Juno.

" Please… take it away "

" I can't, " said Juno with a sorry and sincere look.

" Please! "

Mušen fell to his knees.

" I don't want to be immortal… I don't want to be alone... " cried Mušen, as Anzû was also gone.

Juno took her son into her embrace.

" The path you shall walk will seem lonely, but " said Juno, as she gestured towards the map; " you are not alone "

After many years. Hope finally appeared in Mušen's eyes.

" I am not alone… "

" No, " said Juno, as she cleaned Mušen's face.

Juno vanished, for she had another path to walk. But their paths would cross again. In the meantime. Mušen returned to his coffin. And I shall now tell of some of the times when Mušen interacted with world history.

Mušen gave Altaïr some water; to ease his passing in Masyaf.

When Ezio died in the middle of the street. The Templars had sent men to finish off Sofia and Flavia. The poor girl, crying, ran to her father's side. Sofia saw the knights approaching, swords drawn. A swarm of bats now covered the area.

Mušen landed behind the Auditore family.

Everyone now heard a knight yell;

" Deus Vult! "

The knight ran at Mušen. In vain, the knight started to punch at Mušen's right cheek.

With a smile, Mušen turned to the knight, and then said;

" You must be a Templar "

Mušen dealt with the knight with ease. He then got the Auditore family to safety.

Ezio lay in an open casket with flowers.

Flavia walked up to her father. She placed one hand on Ezio's forehead, and one on his chest. She then said;

" Requiescat in pace… pater… "

Mušen trained the Hidden Ones alongside Bayek and Amunet. He sailed with Eivor and Edward.

He hunted with Connor and Aveline. He debated with Haytham and Arno. He helped Jacob get better after the ripper attack. And he laid Alexios and Kassandra to rest.

Lightning flashed, as Bram Stoker saw Mušen growl at him from the window. Mušen vanished, as Bram Stoker felt inspired. thus; Dracula was born.

Basim was standing in an elevator; going up.

The doors of the elevator opened, and in the middle of the room sat Mr. William Miles, the current Old Man.

" Welcome " said Mr. Miles, as Basim entered the room.

" Hmm " said Basim; " I expected you to be taller "

" Sorry to disappoint "

Basim walked around the room.

" So " said he; " here we are. A old man, and a man from the past "

Mr. Miles looked on, as Basim picked up a knife.

" I have only one question "

" Yes? "

" What the hell are they? " said Basim, as he looked up at the ceiling.

" They are the Hessians "

" The what? "

" The Old Man's bodyguards "

Basim looked up at the five Hessians; hanging from the ceiling.

" They are not human… "

" Neither are you "

Basim giggled.

" You know what I am, so do make it fair "

" Why? "

" Curiosity "

" We found Mušen's coffin deep within the Zagros Mountains "

Basim heightened his sense of hearing.

" We took some of his blood, while he was still asleep "

" Vampires " said Basim with a smile, as he looked back up at the ceiling; " why only five? "

" The others did not survive the operation "

Basim giggled.

" And they call me a monster "

" It takes a monster to take down a monster "

Basim laughed.

" True "

The alarm now went off.

" About time "

" That was not for you… " said Mr. Miles, as he looked worried; " he has awoken… "

A floating screen appeared, which showed the Zagros Mountains seen from above.

Basim and Mr. Miles both looked on, as a large chunk of the mountain side blew off.

And out walked Mušen, who looked directly at the camera; not looking pleased.

Mušen vanished, and a second later. The windows to the office all shattered, as Mušen was now standing behind Mr. Miles.

" Good morning, " said Mr. Miles, as he looked up at Mušen.

" It is night "

" Then, good evening? "

" Good night? " said Basim.

The doors to the elevator opened, and in walked Shaun and Rebecca.

" Are we interrupting something? " said Shaun with British sass.

Mušen looked up at the Hessians.

" I was hoping to be the last "

Mušen now looked at Basim.

" I shall be your opponent "

" I will wait outside, " said Basim, as he left the building.

Mr. Miles now stood up to face Mušen.

" My " said Mr. Miles; " you are tall " said Mr. Miles, as Mušen, was a towering figure.

Mušen walked over to one of the windows overlooking the city.

" Mr. Miles, could you do me one favor? "

Mr. Miles accepted with his silence.

" If you come across anyone seeking immortality. Tell them; it is not worth to see so many loved ones go; where you can not follow "

Mušen now left the building.

" He looked depressed, " said Shaun.

" He has lived for over 5000 years. And during all that time, he wrote one piece of literature; " I see everything. All of the billions of lives that preceeded me on this planet are before me at this moment. I see men of all ages, all races, all colors. They are fighting, killing, building, dancing, singing. They are sitting about rude fires on lonely gray deserts, and flying through the air in monoplanes. They are riding the seas in bark canoes and enormous steamships; they are painting bison and mammoths on the walls of dismal caves and covering huge canvases with queer futuristic designs. I watch the migrations from Atlantis. I watch the migrations from Lemuria. I see the elder races—a strange horde of black dwarfs overwhelming Asia, and the Neandertalers with lowered heads and bent knees ranging obscenely across Europe. I watch the Achæans streaming into the Greek islands, and the crude beginnings of Hellenic culture. I am in Athens and Pericles is young. I am standing on the soil of Italy. I assist in the rape of the Sabines; I march with the Imperial Legions. I tremble with awe and wonder as the enormous standards go by and the ground shakes with the tread of the victorious hastati. A thousand naked slaves grovel before me as I pass in a litter of gold and ivory drawn by night–black oxen from Thebes, and the flower–girls scream 'Ave Caesar' as I nod and smile. I am myself a slave on a Moorish galley. I watch the erection of a great cathedral. Stone by stone it rises, and through months and years I stand and watch each stone as it falls into place. I am burned on a cross head downward in the thyme–scented gardens of Nero, and I watch with amusement and scorn the torturers at work in the chambers of the Inquisition. I walk in the holiest sanctuaries; I enter the temples of Venus. I kneel in adoration before the Magna Mater, and I throw coins on the bare knees of the sacred courtesans who sit with veiled faces in the groves of Babylon. I creep into an Elizabethan theater and with the stinking rabble about me I applaud The Merchant of Venice. I walk with Dante through the narrow streets of Florence. I meet the young Beatrice, and the hem of her garment brushes my sandals as I stare enraptured. I am a priest of Isis, and my magic astounds the nations. Simon Magus kneels before me, imploring my assistance, and Pharaoh trembles when I approach. In India I talk with the Masters and run screaming from their presence, for their revelations are as salt on wounds that bleed. " - The Hounds of Tindalos.

Mušen stood before Basim.

" May I see The Pale Rider? "

Mušen giggled.

Mušen took off his hood, revealing the classic Christopher Lee Dracula look.

" The hour has come " said Mušen, his vampiric fangs visible; " do not disappointment me "

Mr. Miles, Shaun, and Rebecca, all beheld the battle from the screen in the office.

" Dracula vs Loki… epic " said Shaun with a smile.

Back and forth they went, these titans of history and mythology.

Basim quickly realized that his attack had no effect, considering Mušen's healing factor.

" I have been trying to kill myself for millenniums. You have got to do better than knives "

Basim smirked.

" I think I have just the spear "

Everyone looked on in shock, as Basim pulled out the broken Spear of Destiny.

" Where did you get that…? " uttered Mušen.

" So you have seen it? "

" I was there… when I went by the name; Longinus "

Everyone's eyes widened. And the battle continued. And Basim was now able to inflict wounds; which could not heal.

Everyone in the office looked on, as Basim jammed the broken Spear of Destiny, the most powerful Isu artifact, straight into Mušen's chest; piercing his heart. But Mušen was not done yet. Mušen pinned Basim to the ground, and now started to drink Loki dry.

Mušen took a step back, as Loki was now a hollow corpse.

" I'm… " uttered Mušen, as he fell to his knees.

Mušen fell to his side. And with a joyful smile, he said;

" I'm dying… "

Mr. Miles ran to Mušen's side.

" Mr. Miles " said a voice.

William looked around, but no one was there.

" In your pocket "

Mr. Miles pulled out his phone, and visible on his screen was Juno.

" I would like to see my son one last time… I am sure you understand "

William was quiet. He then held his phone towards Mušen.

" It is for you "

Mother and son smiled at one another.

Mušen closed his eyes, and his body now turned to dust.

" He is gone, " said Mr. Miles.

Juno was quiet.

" But he will live through the Hessians I made "

Juno smiled.

" And for that, Mr. Miles, you have my eternal gratitude "

William noticed the devilish look in her eyes.

" Assemble! "

The Hessians all gathered. But there were only four.

" One of you is missing… "

The female Hessian lay down on a table. A Piece of Eden entered her body. Juno now arose from the table. She took off her mask, and breathed the fresh air once more.

Juno smiled, as she had returned to the modern day, in the body of a vampire.

Juno In the Modern Day

Two security guards looked on, as the embodiment of beauty walked past them.

Mr. Miles heard the elevator ping. And out walked Juno.

Her hair was like silkened threads of glittering gold. Her skin was like polished marble. And her eyes had the color of love, the color of blood.

" Truly overwhelming… truly photogenic… " uttered Mr. Miles, as a man of his age, could not handle such supernatural beauty.

" Mr. Miles, " said Juno in a soft and sweet voice, which could have been the voice of Venus herself.

William immediately noticed the vampiric fangs.

" You have a body "

Juno smiled.

" Quite the body… "

Juno smirked, as she narrowed her eyes at poor William.

William wiped away some sweat from his forehead, as his suit was drenched in sweat.

" What do you want? "

" You "

A bolt of joy and dread shot through Mr. Miles' entire body.

" I don't think that my poor heart could handle it… "

Juno giggled softly.

" I wanted to thank you. It is thanks to you that I walk among the living once more. And I must say… it is quite the body you have given me "

Juno ran her hands down her body, while tightening her dress.

" Mercy… " uttered Mr. Miles, as his heart was about to give out.

Juno smiled.

" Very well. I have thanked you. So I shall take my leave "

Juno was about to leave. But that was when she said:

" Oh. I almost forgot "

Mr. Miles looked on, as Juno was walking towards him.

While frozen like a statue. Mr. Miles could do nothing, as Juno sat down on his lap.

Her soft chest was against his.

She ran her hands down his body. Almost reaching his crotch.

His nose could not get enough of her sweet scent.

" Is there something in your pocket? Or are you just happy to see me? " said Juno, devilishly.

" You are not being fair… " uterred William with a faint smile; " what did you forget? "

Juno leaned in close.

William could feel her warm breath on his neck.

" Your reward "

Juno now gave Mr. Miles a kiss on the cheek.

Juno left the building. And Mr. Miles could finally relieve the tension in his body.

It was during a full moon. That a swat of assassins stormed the building, where Juno had last been seen.

" Freeze! " yelled a commander, as all the assassins were pointing the flashlights of their guns at Juno.

Juno was standing in the middle of the room. She was wearing an assassin's hood, while wearing Isu armor. She also had various weapons on her person.

And it is high time that I told you guys about Juno's unique ability. And no: I am not referring to her vampiric abilities.

Juno has the: Brotherhood Bloodline. Where she has access to the skills, knowledge, and powers of every 'protagonist' before her… even Desmond.

Shots were fired, but Juno evaded like Evie. She fought like Bayek. She kicked like Alexios. And she tackled someone out the window like Eivor.

Whenever Juno taps into the Brotherhood Bloodline. The ghostly shade of the 'protagonist' whose 'powers' she is using. Covers her entire body. Juno was sliding down a wire like Ezio.

She then took down the final assassin like Altaïr.

And yes. She does indeed have a Hidden Blade.

Juno winked at the camera, as Mr. Miles was watching from a drone.

" Is there no one to stop her? " said Shaun.

Poor William shook his head.

Juno made her way to the vault, where Mr. Miles had locked away the Spear of Destiny.

Using her vampiric strength. Juno tore down the lock. And that was when someone kicked her back.

Mr. Miles, Shaun, Rebecca, and Juno were all taken aback, as Chrysaor stood before them all.

" How…? " uttered William.

" Bloody hell… " uttered Shaun.

" Wow… " uttered Rebecca.

" Grandchild, " said Juno with a smile.

" Grandmother, " said Chrysaor with a glare.

" Chrysaor- "

" That is not my name "

" Oh " said Juno, surprised; " what do I call you then? "

" I go by Alucard now " said Chrysaor, as he smiled, while his fangs were visible.

Juno was about to attack. But that was when she jumped out of the way, as Sigurd came charging at her.

" Two arms? " said Juno, surprised.

" Damn straight " said Sigurd, as he now had the Silver Arm of Airgetlám.

A brawl broke out, which ended with Juno throwing Sigurd at Alucard.

Juno was able to get away with the spear.

Later, at Mr. Miles' office.

" One question " said Shaun; " how the hell are you two here? "

" Idun's Golden Apples kept me from aging " said Sigurd, as he took a bite from a golden apple.

Alucard hesitated for a moment.

" When my father buried me. He made a blood offer to the gods. That drop of blood landed in my mouth… granting me immortality "

Shaun paused for a moment. He then looked at Rebecca.

" We have a half-Mycenaean and half-Mesopotamian son of Dracula. Who goes by the name: Alucard. And Eivor's older brother, Sigurd, has made his way to the modern day by eating some apples… Did I miss anything? "

" You forgot to mention the fact that Juno is back in a vampire's body. And that she also has the skills, secrets, and knowledge of every assassin that came before her "

Shaun just looked at Rebecca.

" I need a drink… "

" Get one for me too "

" You're pregnant, remember? "

" Really? " said Sigurd with a smile.

" I was wondering why I could hear two heartbeats within your body, " said Alucard.

" Who is the father? " said Mr. Miles.

" Me, of course, " said Shaun.

Rebecca was quiet.

" Is it Desmond? "

Shaun was speechless.

Alucard walked over and sniffed Rebecca. He then sniffed Shaun.

" The child is yours. I can smell your blood within her "

Shaun smiled.

" Disappointing " said William.

" I know, " said Rebecca with a smile.

" Oy. Watch it you two "

" So, what now? " said Sigurd.

" We kill Juno, " said Shaun.

" Not just Juno… " said Mr. Miles.

Everyone turned to look at William.

" What do you mean? " said Shaun.

" Another of the Hessians is missing… "

Everyone was quiet.

" I suspect that she will bring her husband back "

" Aita… " said Rebecca.

" She also has the Spear of Destiny… "

" What do we do? "

Mr. Miles sighed. He then sat up from his chair.

" We have one last ace left "

William pushed a button, and the bookshelf now moved; revealing a secret room.

" Cliché much? " said Shaun.

" Shut it "

In the middle of the room was a pedestal. And on top of the pedestal was what appeared to be a helmet.

" What is that? " said Alucard, curiously.

" The Helm of the Hashashin. We found it within Saladin's tomb. It is said that Hassan was like a father figure for a young Saladin. And it is also said that Hassan made a deal with The Red One "

" Who? " said Rebecca.

" The Djinn of Fire and the Underworld… Al-Muharriq… " said Shaun.

" Al-Muharriq granted Hassan the power of death. Thus, when Rashid took over the brotherhood by force. He used his Piece of Eden to destroy Hassan's body. And Hassan was reduced to the helmet before you all… unable to die "

" What are you getting at? " said Shaun.

" All Hassan needs to return… is a body " said Mr. Miles, as he picked up the helmet.

" William… "

Mr. Miles giggled.

" I can't have my son out do me… and it is high time that I truly became The Old Man of the Mountain "

William dawned the helmet, and his and Hassan's Fate had now become one.

" Assalamu 'alaikum " said Juno.

" Wa-Alaikum-Salaam " said Hassan, as his eyes shone red.

Hassan fought Juno, while Alucard and Sigurd both took on Aita.

Back and forth, Juno and Hassan went. And their battle was truly a clash between titans.

Juno now noticed that Hassan was gone. She shivered as she heard these chilling words:

" The Evening Bell has Tolled Thy Name "

Juno pulled out her weapon to block, as Hassan swung his sword, while yelling:

" Azrael! "

Juno then felt a sharp pain through her chest.

Juno looked down, whereupon she saw that Hassan had run his Hidden Blade through her heart and chest.

" I really should have seen that one coming… " said Juno with a smile, while she looked up at Hassan.

Hassan pulled out his blade, and that was when Juno fell to the cold ground.

Hassan raised his foot over Juno's head.

" I will return, " said Juno with a smile.

" I know " said Hassan, as he crushed Juno's head with his foot; " and I will stop you again "

Juno and Aita were both defeated… there was just one problem… The Spear of Destiny was missing, along with the remaining Hessians.

Worry not, fellow members of the brotherhood.

For the first, the original, Old Man of the Mountain is back. And Hassan would see to it that Masyaf would be rebuilt.

Alucard and Sigurd would both be by his side. And it was now the Templars turn to show their aces. For the Sleeping Squire had awakened… and Hassan could hear the bell toll Troke.

The Khem Mystery

Kubaba has made her way to Ancient Egypt. During the reign of Pharaoh Neferkare. Along with Sinuhe, and other friends of hers. Kubaba is looking into a mystery. A mystery involving magic. Unspoken secrets. Historians would later dub it: The Khem Mystery.

Kubaba, whose facial features are similar to that of Rosa, a woman who was close to Ezio, was sitting within the É-me-lám-huš 2.0.

(A quick note: Kubaba's face resembles that of Rosa, just like how Mušen's face resembles that of Malik. Fun fact: Kubaba has a red rose tattooed on her chest, while Mušen has a red scimitar on his chest. And both of them wear warrior attire similar to what Naram-Sin wears on his Victory Stele. And then some.)

É-me-lám-huš translates to: House of Awesome Radiance. It is a modest home, near the pharaoh's palace, for she was the pharaoh's Medjay.

Puabi, Kubaba's dear and close friend, walked through the door. She froze. Her heart in her throat. And her very life flashing through her eyes, as Pazuzu, Kubaba's faithful Pshdar dog, was barking at her.

" Get your fucking dog, bitch! " yelled Puabi.

" He don't bite. " said Kubaba, calmly, as she was reading a clay tablet.

" Yes he do! " yelled Puabi, as Pazuzu's barking intensified.

Pazuzu stopped barking, as Kubaba called him to her side.

" See, " said Kubaba with that dog owner's voice; " he doesn't bite. He only kisses. Isn't that right, Pazuzu? " this last bit was said, while Pazuzu was licking Kubaba's face.

Puabi just looked at her. She then remembered why she had come in the first place.

" The Pharaoh wishes to see you. "

" Did he mention why? " said Kubaba, while still being "kissed" by Pazuzu.

" Something about an enemy attack. "

The kissing stopped, as Kubaba looked at her.

" Enemy attack? "

Puabi calmly nodded her head. Kubaba could then be seen bolting out of the house.

Puabi sighed. She then hyperventilated, as Pazuzu started barking at her again.

Kubaba landed on top of one of the columns near the city gate, where Pharaoh Neferkare was dealing with a minor skirmish.

One of the soldiers noticed her. He then fired an arrow at her. Kubaba easily dodged the arrow, and then yelled back:

" Is this how you welcome your Medjay? "

" Hold! " said Neferkare to his archer. He smiled, as he said; " you've picked a bad time for a visit! "

" I would have said you've picked a bad time for a skirmish! "

" Well, next time I expect you, I'll tell my enemies not to invade. "

Kubaba let out a faint laugh.

" Do you mind? " said the Pharaoh, gesturing to the intruders. Kubaba said nothing. She merely activated her double-bladed hidden-blade. And then jumped into the fray. The enemies were quickly dealt with, as Kubaba walked up to Neferkare.

" Thank you. " said the Pharaoh, grateful.

" I am but the Pharaoh's eagle. " said Kubaba with a bow; " merely point me at my prey, and I shall strike without mercy. "

The Pharaoh and the Medjay both returned to the palace. Where Kubaba got a warm hug from her husband: Sinuhe.

" My love. " said Sinuhe with a loving tone.

" Hello, sweety. " said Kubaba with a warm smile.

" Get a room, you two. " said Neferkare, as Kubaba and Sinuhe shared a kiss. The Pharaoh sat down on his throne, as his faithful advisor: Khemu, entered the room.

" I am happy to see that both the Pharaoh and the Blue Lotus are in good health. " said Khemu.

(Blue Lotus being Kubaba's alias as Medjay.)

Few words were exchanged, as it was already late.

Pazuzu excitedly ran up to his master, as Kubaba and Sinuhe entered their home.

While enjoying their meal. The two of them talked about Mesopotamia and Mušen.

" What…? " said Kubaba, dumbfounded.

" He really does. " said Sinuhe with a smile; " he calls you: dgúd-me-lám - splendid warrior. "

Sinuhe had just told Kubaba Mušen's nickname for his sister.

" That idiot… " said Kubaba with a smile, as she looked down at her drink. She then rested her head on her hand, as she looked at the window.

It was a clear night sky. The stars were glittering, and the crescent moon was gently glowing. Unbenounced to Kubaba, her dear brother was looking up at the same night sky.

Sinuhe took a moment to admire her. Her hair, which came to about her shoulders, has yet to lose any of its lovely golden hue. Despite the Egyptian sun. Her fair skin was still as white as the marbles covering the pyramids. And her eyes, second only to her wit and mind, were of a crimson color: very much like blood itself. He had once asked her about it. For it was not common to have "blood eyes". Sinuhe also did not have an explanation as to her bat-like-fangs.

" Gutians are the children of Rabisu, the First Ancestor. Other than that… I really don't have an answer. "

She did not mention the fact that Rabisu had many different names… Daegon, Drake, and Kain.

Kubaba looked back at Sinuhe, and that was when he noticed the star-like-gleam in her eyes. For Kubaba Agade was truly like a shining star.

It was the next day, as Kubaba awoke. She saw how Sinuhe was still asleep. She kissed him on the forehead. She then donned her assassin attire, along with her double-bladed-hidden-blade-gauntlet… try saying that three times fast… Kubaba climbed onto the roof, to see the sun rise from behind the pyramids.

" Any news? "

" None. "

" Hmmm. "

Kubaba and Khemu were both walking down one of the many finely decorated halls of the pharaoh's palace. Kubaba was wondering if Khemu had any news about the many strange deaths happening around Egypt.

" It is strange really… " said Khemu; " a mystery even. People suddenly dying. From sickness? Famine? The gods' wrath?... we simply do not know. "

" I see. "

Khemu was about to say something, but Kubaba had already vanished.

" I hate it when she does that. " said Khemu with a smile.

" My lord. " said a servant.

" Yes? "

" The apple… "

Kubaba stood atop the shoulder of the Anubis statue: overlooking a good deal of The Egyptian marketplace.

" It is sad really… " said Kubaba to the wind. For ever since the Gutians - her people, took over the Akkadian Empire. Not many Mesopotamian Merchants have been able to visit/do trade with the Egyptians. Only a few came from Lagesh. Kubaba now noticed Puabi amidst the crowd.

Puabi was peacefully humming to herself, as she passed an alley.

" Boo! "

" Ah! " screamed poor Puabi, as this was not the first time Kubaba had scared her half to death;

" Are you actively trying to kill me?! "

Kubaba was finally able to calm her laughing.

" Safety and peace, Puabi. "

" Your presence here deprives me of both!! "

(Quite literally.) a scream went out. Kubaba was on the alert, as she scanned the scene. Two men were laying on the road. Neither was moving.

Kubaba rushed to their side. She put two fingers to a man's neck.

" He's dead… they both are. "

Puabi joined her. She then said a prayer for the two dead merchants.

" Merchants… " said Kubaba.

" Something the matter? "

Kubaba thought about it. And she now realized that many of the dead… were Mesopotamian Merchants.

" Do you see a connection? " asked Pharaoh Neferkare.

" Not yet. " said Kubaba, as she was making a report to the Pharaoh; " but I doubt that It is a coincidence. "

The Pharaoh rubbed his chin.

" My loyal advisor. What do you think? "

Khemu stepped forward.

" Pharaoh. I find the death of any to be tragic… but. I have also advised his Grace to close our borders with Mesopotamia. " that last bit was said; while Khemu was looking directly at Kubaba.

Kubaba need not ask: why? For Khemu loved hearing himself talk.

" The Gutians are currently the hegemony of Mesopotamia. - Khemu paused - who is to say that they won't turn their hungry gaze towards Egypt and her riches. "

" Me. " said Kubaba without hesitation; " the Gutians have no plan to take Egypt. "

" You sound so sure… but! If I recall… the skirmish which the Pharaoh dealt with the other day… Do remind me: what people were they? "

" Gutians… "

" A little louder, please. "

" Gutians! "

" There you have it, Pharaoh! '' yelled Khemu, triumphantly; " proof of my horrors! "

" No! " interjected Kubaba; " I suspect that the skirmish was made up of rebellious Gutians. "

" Why would any Gutian betray Inkishush? "

But Khemu had yet to realize the folly of his question. For Kubaba calmly replied:

" Just take me and my brother as examples. "

Neferkare smiled, as Puabi snickered: for she too was within the throne room.

Khemu glared at Puabi… he would have his revenge. Khemu turned to leave. Not before Kubaba said:

" Fottiti(Go fuck yourself). "

Pharaoh Neferkare then ordered the court dismissed.

" He is up to something. " said Kubaba, lowering her cowl, taking a seat. She and Puabi were at her and Sinuhe's home.

" He merely seeks to protect Egypt, is all. " said Puabi, as she was rubbing Pazuzu's belly - for the two of them had finally become friends; " I doubt that he acts out of malice. "

" Perhaps. '' said Kubaba, staring up at the ceiling. She then straightened up, as she had an idea.

" Let us see for ourselves. "

It was a starry night, as Kubaba was at the palace, once more. She landed on the floor, but quickly realized that she had a problem. A patrol unit was coming at her from the left. She turned right, but saw that a patrol unit was coming from that direction as well.

" Malaka! "

A procession of priests, wearing Medjed-cloaks, came forth from around the corner. Kubaba quickly jumped into their midst, hiding her face within her cowl. The two patrol units were none the wiser.

" Literally can't believe that worked. " said Kubaba with a smile, as she continued her mission.

Kubaba found herself standing outside Khemu's chamber.

" This is madness! "

" Sinuhe… " uttered Kubaba, as cold dread rose within her. She looked into the room, while still remaining out of sight. She saw Sinuhe bound up in the middle of the room, and Khemu standing by a table to the right.

" Madness? " said Khemu, as he held up a vial; " this is science! " he then turned to face Sinuhe; " and I need you gone. You understand? "

" I. Do. Not. " said Sinuhe, coldly.

" Splendid! "

Sinuhe smiled.

" What's so funny? "

" Just you wait till my wife gets here. "

Khemu snickered.

" She has already been dealt with. "

A horrified look befell Sinuhe, as a confused look befell Kubaba. It then dawned on her.

" Puabi… "

" Well… " said Khemu; " I must really be going now. "

Sinuhe was now all alone in the room… believing that his wife was dead. Life seemingly returned to his eyes, as Kubaba made herself known.

" Sorry I'm late, honey, traffic was hell. "

Kubaba and Sinuhe were both racing with all haste back home… but it was already too late.

" No… " uttered Kubaba, tears appearing in her eyes. In the middle of the floor; lay a dying Puabi… Khemu did get his revenge after all.

" I will wait for you within Bright Dilmun… " uttered Puabi with the last of her strength. But Kubaba knew that she would never see Puabi again… for she had another promise to keep.

" Requiescat...in...pace… "

" I see. " said Pharaoh Neferkare, as he was made aware of the situation; " I shall ensure that your friend gets a burial worthy of a queen… and the dog as well. '' for Pazuzu had died trying to protect Puabi. Kubaba clenched her fists tightly.

" Where is Khemu? "

" He left the palace with a handful of men. "

" I will find him. " said Kubaba, as she turned to leave.

" He could be anywhere. "

" So? "

Neferkare just looked at Kubaba.

" You're just making this up as you go along? "

" Yep. " said Kubaba with a pause; " But I do it brilliantly. "

The Pharaoh couldn't help but agree.

It didn't take Kubaba long to track down Khemu and his men. She swooped down, easily dealing with the men. It was now just her and him.

" Don't think I have any intention of caressing your cheek and saying I was wrong. " said Khemu, backing away, as Kubaba was drawing near with her double-bladed hidden-blade; " I will not weep and wonder what might have been… I am sure that you understand… "

Kubaba grabbed Khemu by the collar, and then plunged her blade into his neck. They were both now standing in the realm - between life and death.

" You killed those innocent merchants using Cantarella. " said Kubaba, as she had examined one of his vials.

Khemu answered in the affirmative with his bloody grin.

Kubaba turned to leave. Khemu was about to curse her, but Kubaba quickly said:

" Anāku nubattu ahāt Marduk. "

An unseen force seemingly threw Khemu on his butt. Kubaba was ready to leave.

" Wait! " uttered Khemu, feebly.

Kubaba turned towards him.

" Please… " said Khemu, holding up a feather; " I wish to die an Egyptian death… "

Kubaba stood there for what must have felt like an eternity. She then walked over. Picked up the feather. And then said:

" The Lord of the Du'at awaits. "

" Forgive me… " said Pharaoh Neferkare.

" You're not to blame. " said Kubaba. She paused for a moment; " I get it. Khemu only wished to protect his people… but he went about it the wrong way. "

" Let the scales judge his crimes. "

The Pharaoh turned towards Kubaba.

" What will you do now? "

Kubaba let out a long sigh.

" We need a break… " said Kubaba, referring to herself and Sinuhe. Kubaba turned to leave. But not before saying:

" Safety and peace, Pharaoh. "

" Your presence here will deliver us both. " said Pharaoh Neferkare with a bow.

Kubaba and Sinuhe would go on to have two kids together. A son: Enpap. And a daughter: Sukkalgir.

Kubaba would depart many words of wisdom to her children.

" The life of an Lú-ga-šum is pain. You suffer it, and you inflict it. You watch it happen- all in the hope that you can help it disappear, in time. It's terribly ironical, I know. But there it is. "

" I learned that those who inspire fear have more devoted followers than those who preach love. "

" The important thing to realize is this: Love binds our Order together; love of people, of cultures, of the world. Fight to preserve that which inspires hope, and you will win back your people. "

" Our origins seem chaotic, unintended. With purpose and being instilled solely by the passage of time. Imposed by nature - and only later, by men. What should we do with this rare gift of life? May those who come later, find the answer. "

Join the brotherhood. Serve the light in the dark.

The Abyss

Sîn-lēqi-unninni was busy at work. His candle was barely able to keep the dark lit. But the mašmaššu refused to stop now. Not when he was so close to being finished.

" Just three more words… " said the excited Sîn-lēqi-unninni, as he wiped away some sweat from his forehead. He was startled as the room lit up from the lightning outside. Sîn-lēqi-unninni then heard the thunder. He then saw a hooded-cloaked figure standing by his door. Sîn-lēqi-unninni noticed that the figure was large and broad. He noticed the chiseled abs. He then noticed the red glowing eyes from underneath the cowl.

" Who are you? "

" Do I have permission to enter your abode? "

There was a pause.

" Sure…? " said Sîn-lēqi-unninni, as his voice resembled that of Dr. Irving Finkel.

Mušen Mâr lā Mammâna now entered his abode.

Sîn-lēqi-unninni had heard the stories. About a hooded figure with red glowing eyes from days of old. From the days before the flood.

" Who are you? " repeated Sîn-lēqi-unninni.

" Ziusudra. " said Mušen, wanting some fun.

Sîn-lēqi-unninni could see the humor in that - which is why he giggled a little. Mušen circled the small room. Till he was now facing the door. With his back to Sîn-lēqi-unninni.

" What happened to you? " said Sîn-lēqi-unninni, as there were many strange tales surrounding the figure before him. His vocal cords were a bit rusty, for it had been a while since Mušen had talked to someone. But he simply said:

" I have what was given to Utnapishtim… what was stolen from Gilgamesh… "

Mušen's shoulders simply slumped down.

Sîn-lēqi-unninni suspected that meant that he had seen much in his long life. Which is why he asked:

" What did you see? "

Mušen's head rose.

" I saw the deep- "

Sîn-lēqi-unninni startled for a second time, as Mušen turned towards him. A second lightning strike flashed, as Mušen said:

" I saw the Abyss. "

Mušen was gone with the lightning.

Sîn-lēqi-unninni turned towards the clay tablet he was working on. He then proceeded to write down what Mušen had said:

" Ša nagba īmuru. "

As Mušen continued his long journey, he could not help but hear some echoes from the past.

" It is a good life we lead, brother. "

" The best. "

" May it never change. "

" And may it never change us. "

Serpent of the Old Nile

Mušen once again found himself within the Gift of the Nile.

He strode the columned halls, as he made his way towards the throne room.

Mušen easily evaded the guards.

It's not that the guards were at fault, not at all. It's more like: the guards did not stand a chance against this Dracula before Dracula. Only the cats were able to pick up on his silent steps.

Mušen, the Son of a Nobody, had arrived within the hall housing the Pharaoh. There was just one problem: the Pharaoh was not present.

" Where is she? "

Mušen picked up a sweet aroma within the air.

He followed the scent, arriving at the bathhouse - The Pharaoh's Bathhouse.

" Bride of the Nile. " said Mušen, bowing.

Before him sat Cleopatra Thea, Cleopatra the Seventh, sipping a glass of wine, while bathing in a bath of milk: coated with rose petals.

I need not regale you all with her regal beauty.

Sufficient to say:

She was, and is, stunning.

Not that Mušen was charmed, for Medusa had left a lasting impression, and the fact: that Mušen could not love any the way he had loved his late wife.

So Mušen and Cleo's relationship was one of respect and friendship.

The two of them strode along within the magnificent palace.

They were discussing various topics. Topics like:

Politics. Philosophy. Geometry. Agriculture. And history.

Cleo enjoyed discording with Mušen. For like herself, he too spoke many languages. So Cleo was able to dust up on some of those she had not used for a good while.

Mušen halted.

Cleo looked on as he ran his finger down a lotus carved symbol on the wall.

" Nin… "

" Egypt has not seen a Medjay like Blue Lotus in many generations. She was truly unique and extraordinary. "

Mušen smiled, and agreed whole heartily.

(It is this moment that inspired Cleopatra to seek out Aya.)

" I must be going now. "

Mušen prepared to leave, till Cleo shouted:

" You have not been dismissed! "

Mušen halted. He then realized his folly.

Mušen turned to face her. He then bowed.

" You are now dismissed. "