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1   Queen Esther prayed for three days. Then she took off

the clothes she had been wearing and put on her splendid robes again.

2    3   In all her royal splendor, she prayed again to her God and savior, who sees everything. Walking like a queen, she left her room accompanied by two servant girls, one of them escorting her by the arm and

4   the other holding up the train of her robe.

5   Queen Esther's face was radiantly beautiful. She looked as cheerful as she was lovely, but in her heart she was terror-stricken.

6   She passed through all the doors and entered the throne room, where she stood before the king. He was seated on his royal throne, dressed in his glorious robes, which were covered with gold and precious jewels. It was an awe-inspiring sight.

7   His face glowed with splendor, but when he saw Esther, he stared at her with fierce anger. She grew weak and turned pale; she almost fainted and had to lean her head on her attendant's shoulder.

8   But God changed the king's anger into tender concern. He quickly rose from his throne and took her in his arms until she was able to stand. He calmed her with comforting words.

9   “What is it, Esther?” he said to her. “I am your husband. There's no need to be afraid.

10   Our law applies only to ordinary people; you will not die.

11   Come here to me.”

12   He lifted his gold scepter and touched her on the neck with it. Then he kissed her and said, “Tell me what you want.”

13   “When I looked at you, my lord, I thought I was seeing an angel of God,” the queen answered, “and I was overcome by your awesome majesty.

14   You are so marvelous and your face is so full of kindness.”

15   But while she was speaking, she fainted again.

16   The king was concerned about her, and all his attendants tried to revive her.

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