THE DESOLATE SOUTHLAND

CHAPTER 19: DEATH GENE

Afzal couldn't believe his eyes. Even though all the test subjects were injected with the antidote, Allah's breath still took over them. It just took longer. Now matter the potency, it would only delay the inevitable outcome. All the test subjects proved this and he, now, knew why.

During his research, he found something that was to be kept a secret. Thousands of years ago, ancient Egyptian priests, skilled in the extraction of vital organs, would prepare bodies for the afterlife. Part of this involved the pouring of chemicals over the deceased body to impede mummification. It was a common practice based on the Egyptian religion. Years later, when medicine advanced, but still in its infancy, some rulers feared that someone would be able to achieve immortality based on these Egyptian rituals. Achieving this would threaten their rule, their kingdom, and their legacy. This fear was brought about by the rumors of Vlad III, who was decapitated, would rise from the grave. Vlad's extreme cruelty struck fear into everyone. So, these rulers met in secret. After days of much discussion, it was decided to employ the best group of scientists the world had to offer. These scientists were charged with the task to study the ancient rituals and methods of the Egyptians. Their sole purpose was to find a way to ensure, simply put, once you die, you stay dead. After several years of studying and conducting experiment after experiment, they made a break through. Though, according to history, DNA wasn't discovered until 1869 by Swiss Physician Fredrich Miescher, and yet, it was approximately seventy-five years later before it was fully understood. However, this elite group of scientists, discovered it, manipulated it according to their challenge. They modified the human race by introducing the "Death Gene" into its DNA. No one really knows how, but they were successful in ensuring that the longevity of life to be much shorter than it was during biblical times and that death was certainly final.

Afzal could not have anticipated this science. Every human since possesses the "Death Gene." And for some reason, when introduced to the antidote, the only result is the delay of "Allah's Breath." This gene somehow overpowers the antidote eventually.

PHONE RINGS.

"Salaam."

"Salaam, professor. The Imam want to know of your progress."

"Tell them I have discovered why the antidote is not working. However, since this was something unforseen, it will take some time to find a way to fix it."

"I will pass this along. But, professor, they Imam are very displeased with the turn of recent events. This delay will not help their dis-satisfaction."

Agitated, "I am the only one who can fix this! Science takes time!"

"The Imam know this, professor, however, they feel you either do not know, or do not care about, the urgency of the matter."

"Wait just a min...."

The voice cut him off, "This is the way the Imam have decided to help you understand and focus on your task."

"Huh, help me, how?"

"They have gathered you some motivation."

Silently, Afzal stood with his eyes glaring in fear.

"You, you mean...?

"Yes professor, we have your family. And if you want them to live, you will find a solution quickly."

CLICK! The phone hung up.

Afzal dropped the phone and sat down as tears flowed freely.

"What have I done?"