(Lent 19) Crime and punishment

I committed my first crime when I was ten years old. I stole my stepfather’s car and drove it into the local reservoir after he spanked me.

Since then I have spent the majority of my life behind bars or awaiting trial. I don't think I am a bad person, but I just get a rush from doing something that is illegal.

The same judge has presided over all of my trials, and I can see the annoyance on his face whenever I step into his courtroom.

Today for the first time he actually smiled when I stood in front of him. For the first time I was innocent as I was accused of adultery even though I didn't know the other person was married.

My lawyer advised me to plead guilty and I reluctantly agreed. The judge smirked as he told me I wasn't going to jail, and that I would be part of an experimental punishment.

I was escorted out of the courtroom before I could ask any questions, but soon discovered that they intended to stone me to death like they did years ago.

I was hesitant but the guard assured me that I wouldn't die and would be allowed to leave afterwards if I chose to. I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something he wasn't telling me as I was shoved into the giant cavern.

I peered around at the dozens of other prisoners who stood nearby motionless. I walked over to the closest one to get some more information, but slid to a halt as I got a closer look at him.

I saw movement out of the corner of my eye and spun around, before letting out a gasp as I came face to face with a creature that I thought was mythical.

I now stand frozen in place in Medusa's lair, and have all eternity to regret my life decisions that led me to this moment.