The Power of Freedom: A 2nd Century Adventure in Sub-Saharan Africa

“As you know, I am a man of my word.”

“You are that, my friend,” replied Juba as he wiped the sweat from his forehead. “And a man of your word is rare in this part of the world.”

The king was known to be a man of honor and generosity when it came to his allies. Though they had never met before, they respected each other with their honor and courage on the battlefields. Juba always admired Hannibal for his cunning strategy in war, but especially for his kindness towards his allies.

“This will be the last time I require your services, Juba. The war is over and Rome has lost. Once you and I have settled our differences with the remaining Romans here in Africa, there will be peace across all our lands. We have been working together for years now and I truly believe we can trust each other,” said Hannibal as he sat on his throne which was slowly melting away under the heat of the sun. He was not sweating a bit as he did not feel any warmness at all. His cold eyes moved slowly towards his guest as he spoke again, “I want you to bring me a relic from the East that will help us gain the strength to end this war once and for all. It is said to be hidden somewhere in this country and it can give anyone who uses it immense power and strength to do whatever they desire.”

Juba took off his helmet as he sipped some water from an ornate goblet on a nearby table. He looked at Hannibal before replying with a smile, “It is my pleasure to serve you again, Hannibal! But first tell me how do you know about this relic?”

Hannibal smiled back and continued speaking while playing with what was left of his throne, “A young maiden told me she saw an old man who wore strange clothes that would make even your grandfather blush! He carried this relic around in an iron box which was covered with black leather…”

Juba interrupted him with a chuckle, “I see what you mean! That must have been King Solomon himself! He was known for wearing such extraordinary clothing! You already know that he used to live here in Africa but returned to his kingdom after he had a dispute with one of our ancestors who turned out to be Queen Sheba of Arabia!”

Bashfully smiling Juba continued with excitement in his voice, “Sheba was known for being incredibly beautiful but also very intelligent! She ruled her kingdom wisely until her death many years ago! Even though she wasn't born here in Africa she embraced our culture someday after she met Solomon who fell madly in love with her! She even converted to Judaism after marrying him and became one of their leaders until Queen Esther's reign many years later! Some say that she built what is today known as Great Zimbabwe which is known for its mysterious origin! Her mystical powers are said to have helped her build it! And now we have another amazing queen amongst us who has helped us through these hard times on the battlefields! Surely she has found this relic thanks to her special gifts which are just as powerful as any magical relic could ever be!” said Juba as he bowed down while looking directly into Hannibal's eyes with admiration. He stood up straight again immediately and continued speaking while wiping more sweat away from his face using his red cape's edge, “But where should I start looking? Tell me more about this maiden you mentioned? Perhaps she can lead me straight to it?”