(Exercise in describing a scripture story in third person)
The call had come. Any eligible boy between twelve-eighteen, were to report to the army base tomorrow. Akim at 17 was going in the place of his father, who, with many others, had pledged to never take up arms again.
The Lamanites had been fighting the Nephites for many months. The battle was steadily growing sore. The Nephite armies were replenishing rapidly, and if help didn’t come soon, they would be defeated. The Anti-Nephi-Lehis, who were under the Nephites’ protection, were about to break their oath and take up their weapons to help their brethren. But then, the mighty leader Heleman, had pleaded with them not to break their oath with God. He had suggested that their sons, who had not taken the oath, could fight in their stead.
Of course the Anti-Nephi-Lehis had agreed. They would not stand idly by and watch their nation fall. The young men of the Antis, were valiant and courageous. They did not fear death, and they knew God would deliver them.
All this was running through Akim’s mind as he readied his pack. He had just just tied the last knot on his sandal when someone pounded on the door. His mother had just opened it when a figure flew through the door and flung her arms around Akim’s neck. “Oh Akim, don’t go! Please! I could not bear the thought of losing you!” Sobs started to wrack her body. He led her to a chair, and set her down. He kneeled beside her. “Amara, you know I have to go. To not go would be betrayal.” I know,” she started, “But you and I could run and–” “And what?” Akim said. “Get caught in the war anyway?” “Well at least we would be together.”
Akim lifted her chin so she had to look into his eyes. “Listen to me Amara. God has promised protection, and I believe he will protect me as long as I have faith. You must have faith too. I promise I will return to you.” “And if you don’t?” She said. He looked into her beautiful green eyes that were swimming in tears. “And if I don’t,” he said softly. “Hold me in your heart and you will never be alone.”