Of Such Is The Kingdom, A Novel of Biblical Times in 3 parts

His release did come.  About a month later, Herod Agrippa himself came to the prison and opened the cell door.  "O.k., Manaheem, you're free to go.  Just don't bother me anymore with this Jesus talk."

"Fine.  But you can't stop us--our God is with us."

"We'll see about that.  I’m going to have your leader killed.  Then we'll see how far you get with your strange doctrine."

"You can't do that."

“I certainly can and will.  I intend to capture your leader and have him killed by tomorrow night.  And if you know what's good for you, you'll not show your face around here again or you just may be my next victim."

"You don't even know who our leader is."

"My sources tell me it's a man named James.  Are they correct?"

"You expect me to confirm it?  Where do you get your information?"

“I have my loyal people with ears to the ground, so to speak.  All I have to say is this James better not show himself on the streets if he knows what's good for him."

"Well, thanks for the warning.  Now I can warn him."

“I doubt that will do any good.  I know how zealous you believers are.  He'll appear sooner or later and then I’ll get him."

***********

At the next believer's meeting, Manaheem reported his meeting with Agrippa and the threat to James.  Peter stood up and suggested that they keep James hidden until things blow over.  They voted and it was approved.

The next day, the brothers, James and John were walking on the street along with Peter and Manaheem talking.  Peter, talking to James, happened to mention his name.  Agrippa, disguised as a common person was standing nearby and heard the conversation.  He jumped out of the crowd and grabbed James.  "So, you're the leader of this troublesome sect?"

"Why, no.  I’m just a follower, like the rest of us here."

By now a crowd had gathered around them.

"Well, we'll see about that," Herod yelled.  "Guards, bring this man to the prison."

The guards grabbed James and they walked to the prison.  The crowds followed, as did the disciples.  By this time they realized it was Herod Agrippa.  When they were at the front entrance to the prison, Herod summoned the prison guard.  They came in full force, with their leader, Malcius Arilius out in front.  "Malcius" ordered Herod "take this man to the inner cell and execute him.  Bring me his head here on a charger."

Malcius drew his sword and two other soldiers led the prisoner inside.  A shout of approval arose from the crowd.  Soon Malcius appeared again, bearing the head of James on a platter.  The crowd went wild with joy and excitement.  Agrippa smiled broadly, delighted that the execution pleased the Jews.  “I must plan another one soon."  he thought.