Lord, what have I done? I never should have left them alone. Even for a short time.
Ari could argue the whys of the matter, but the truth was he was responsible for this tragedy. And he had no doubt Athaliah would have a grand laugh when she realized Ari’s part.
His conscience ate at him as they approached the walled village. For he heard nothing but wailing. “Lord, forgive me,” he muttered beneath his breath.
“What need of forgiveness do you have, my son?”
It was not the Lord who had asked the question, but Caleb. Ari would much prefer to speak with God on this matter.
“For my iniquities, adon,” Ari responded, hating his deception.
“I suppose we all have them, do we not?”
Unable to speak, Ari nodded.
Just as they were about to enter through the gate, Ari halted. “I do not think it safe for you to go any closer. Not yet.”
“I must,” Caleb said.
“I will go.” Ari would go and see the destruction. He would—what would he do? Bury the dead to save Caleb from such devastation? Ari drew in a ragged breath.
“We will go together.” Caleb laid his palm on Ari’s shoulder and searched his eyes.
Ari’s shoulders sagged.
“I must know that my family is unharmed.”
“But, adon—”
“No!” Caleb snapped. In his years of service, Ari had not once heard his master raise his voice.
“Yes, adon. I understand, you must do what you must.”
Afraid of what they would find, Ari felt the urge to drag his feet. Yet he wanted to drop the donkey’s lead and run as fast as he could. He would not breathe easy until his gaze touched Mira and Joash.
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