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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Write for the SUSPENSE and/or THRILLER Genre (10/23/14)
I had just one chance.

Failure meant death. Not only would it mean my death, but it also would bring the death of hope for my fellow citizens as they continued to suffer oppression at the hands of an evil enemy king.

Called of Jehovah to bring deliverance to his people, I had no choice but to follow in obedience, regardless of the risk.

We approached the palace. Pressing my right hand to my thigh, I made sure the double-edged sword I'd created for the task remained hidden under my coat. They would only check for a weapon on my left side, creating an advantage for a left-handed warrior. Under the guise of delivering Israel's tribute payment, we entered the king's court.

"You may leave now." Not wanting to place my servants in harm's way, I dismissed them after the delivery of the gift was completed.

Without the accompaniment of my servants, I now found myself alone in the palace of a brutal enemy king. Once again, placing my hand to my side, I reassured myself that the sword was still in place. Would I succeed? Should I even try? Or should I flee and preserve my life?

Immediately, I felt the voice of the LORD speak within me. "I have not called you to success, but to faithfulness. If you will be faithful, it is I who will bring victory."

I entered the summer room on the upper floor where King Eglon held court. A king so revoltingly lazy, that he had his throne designed to accommodate him in such a way that he would not be required to leave his seat for any purpose. I knew then how I must proceed. If I could find a way to be alone with him, I would be able to complete my mission.

Willing strength into my shaking legs, I wiped the sweat from my upper lip and approached the throne. A man of God cannot give in to fear.

One step.

Two steps.

I had his attention. "King Eglon. I have information for you. Secret information."

He bit. "Leave the room."

His servants exited at his command. The decisive moment had arrived.

I stepped closer. Right up to his feet.

He stood to meet me.

"This is my message for you. A message from the God of Israel."

Pulling the sword from my right thigh with my left hand, I plunged it deep into his belly. Fighting the urge to retch, I watched the fat folds close around it. With precious little time to escape, the sword was not worth retrieving.

Leaving his chambers, I locked the door behind me. Maybe his servants would see the closed door, assume he was indisposed, and leave him undisturbed long enough for me to reach safety.

Every muscle in my body wanted to run as I walked slowly and calmly out of the palace.

Reaching the edge of the palace grounds, I mounted my camel and fled.
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This article has been read 577 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Holly Westefeld
10/30/14
Your first-person retelling of Ehud's story from Judges 3:13-30 fit the topic well, and was very engaging. It is good to be reminded of one of the lesser known deliverers of Israel.
C D Swanson 
10/31/14
Excellent writing. Well done.

God bless~
Francie Snell 
11/01/14
Such intelligent writing. You gave such a vivid picture of the setting and personal thoughts of a warrior. Great Job on a wonderful piece.
God Bless
Toni Babcock 
11/02/14
I always love stories written from the POV of the main character. Great story telling.