Rising Darkness by D. Brian Shafer

Author:D. Brian Shafer [Shafer, D. Brian]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9780768498820
Publisher: Destiny Image, Inc.

Ahab’s palace at Samaria was a luxurious and magnificent complex. The walls in the main reception area as well as the king’s chambers were inlaid with ivory. On the walls were glorious reliefs and inlays of flowers and animals, many of which showed a definite Egyptian influence. In deference to his wife, Jezebel, Ahab also made sure that there were Phoenician elements throughout the palace as well.

Apart from the physical beauty of the place, there was a definite sense of kingly authority. For all of his personal flaws, Ahab was a capable ruler who used his power to keep Israel’s external enemies at bay. Unfortunately, the subtle enemies that were gnawing at him from within were the greater threat.

Gabriel and Serus walked alongside Elijah as he climbed the few stairs that led to the entry of Ahab’s palace. The prophet drew strange looks from the guards as he approached the main protocol. Serus and Gabriel also drew strange looks—unwelcome looks—and howling jeers from the many demons who hung about the palace.

“There is a very strong spirit of control in this place,” said Gabriel, sensing the spiritual condition of Ahab’s home. “Control and religious idolatry. Such shameful strongholds to be at the king’s residence!”

“Away from here, Gabriel,” came a voice from the throng. “You are not welcome here. And take the traitor Serus with you!”

The howl increased as they proceeded through a hallway where Elijah was greeted by an aide to the king. The aide said that he would announce the prophet and that Elijah was to wait in the hallway until he returned.

“Welcome to Samaria,” came the familiar voice of Shawa.

“Ah, Shawa,” said Serus. “Or is it Dagon? No, that was before Dagon was humbled. I believe it is Baal that you are assuming now?”

“Careful, traitor,” said Shawa sharply. “You are on unholy ground now.”

“Where is Kara?” asked Gabriel. “Surely his ambition does not give you free reign in Samaria.”

“I have authority in Samaria,” said Shawa defensively. “I am the true power behind the king. I have Ahab’s mind and Jezebel’s heart. And your prophet is finished before he even begins here. We have prophets—hundreds of them!”

“Ah yes,” said Gabriel, looking at the Baalist inlays in the ivory. “I have heard of your school of prophets for Baal. They are centered at Mount Carmel, are they not?”

“Carmel is only one of the sacred sites,” sniffed Shawa. “And they are a particular favorite of the queen.” He smiled an angry smile. “It won’t be long, Archangel, until the prophets of Baal are the only voice heard in Israel. And then you can find another nation to plant your accursed Seed!”

“The Seed is planted, Shawa,” said Gabriel. “Far too deeply for you to ever be able to get to it!”

Before Shawa could answer, the steward returned and asked Elijah to follow him in to see Ahab. Shawa raced ahead to stand by the king. By the time Gabriel and Serus arrived with Elijah in Ahab’s elaborate reception room, Shawa was standing next to the king.

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