beneath the falls (9)

As the last stragglers joined their group, they turned toward the old schoolhouse, a sturdy building that stood on higher ground, a beacon of safety. They could see the water, a brown torrent roaring down the valley, swallowing everything in its path.

It was a terrifying sight, one that none of them would ever forget. As they reached the schoolhouse, Clara and Liam arrived from the east, breathless but relieved, their expressions reflecting urgency. They joined forces, ushering everyone inside.

“Is that everyone?” Clara asked, scanning the anxious faces illuminated by flickering light. Tommy nodded, but the sound of the water was almost deafening now, drowning out their fears.