They had barely secured the last window when the storm struck. Wind slammed against the walls like a wild animal trying to claw its way inside. Rain exploded against the roof so violently it sounded like handfuls of gravel being thrown from the sky. Lightning flashed again and again, turning the room white for an instant before darkness swallowed it once more. The children huddled together in the parlor.
Sani's face had gone pale. "Is something bad going to happen to us?" She asked, her voice shaking. Ryland sat down beside them. "No," he kept his voice calm.
"This house is strong. We're safe in here." Then, a terrible crack split the air. A heartbeat later came a thunderous crash so powerful the floor trembled beneath their feet. "What was that?"
Daro shouted. Ryland rushed to the window and looked toward the center of town. His stomach dropped. The old community barn, the one dusty creek used to shelter animals whenever trouble struck, had collapsed under the storm. Horses, cattle, and goats were tearing through the streets in every direction, crazed by thunder and blinded by sheets of rain.
"Lord, help us," Ryland muttered. "The animals are loose. Through the window, he could see towns people spilling out of their homes, trying to catch frightened livestock before they disappeared into the storm. It was chaos. Cattle charged through muddy streets.
Rain came down so hard it was difficult to see more than a few yards. The wind shoved people sideways and ripped at hats, coats, and doors. "I've got to get out there," Ryland said, reaching for his hat. "I'm coming with you," Yara answered immediately. "No."
Ryland shook his head. "It's too dangerous." But Yara did not look away. Ryland. I grew up around animals.
I know how they react when they're frightened. I know how to settle them. Her voice was calm but firm. I can help. I need to.
Ryland studied her for a moment. She was right. Finally, he nodded. All right. But the children stay here.
No. Reco shouted, jumping to his feet. We want to help, too. We're part of this family. He glanced towards the window.
And we're part of this town now. The other four immediately stood beside him, shoulder-to-shoulder. Please, Papa Ryland, Kea said, "Let us help. We're strong." Ryland looked at them carefully.
They were small. "Too small," he thought at first. But what he saw in their faces was not fear. It was determination, courage, heart. For the first time, he did not see five helpless children from the desert.