John Eudy
In the pre-Christian era, Ioannes, a Roman soldier, dies on a Middle Eastern battlefield. Captured, chained, and humiliated in the afterlife, he suddenly finds a band of demons escorting him to hell. As he makes the arduous journey downward, he reflects upon his earthly search for the truth of the one true God. He contemplates his condemnation and regrets not sharing his belief in Adonai with his friend and fellow legionnaire.Cælius has a conversion of heart after his friend Ioannes’ death. This conversion leads out of the legion and into the Roman Navy. Over the next two years, he achieves a small amount of peace as he sails the Mediterranean and discretely learns of God and the coming Messiah. His new faith is revealed and tested during a storm off the coast of Cyprus, where he gives his life trying to save his shipmates.Both soldiers descend into Hades. Ioannes must pass through the gates of hell on foot, while Cælius finds himself floating down the River Styx into the underworld. Surrounded by horror, their journeys are fraught with torment and despair.What do they witness after the crucifixion of Jesus? Will their newfound faith unite and save them as just pagans? Or are they destined to be separated in Hell forever?
