Page 16 (1/2)

They stared at each other until Emma said, “I can’t do it I knoe have to, but I can’t I can’t”

“Make up your ized “I’m sorry I—”

“It’s—” Eh that movement could push terrible choices away

“I’ll do it,” Liam said “I’ll drive I can do this I can do this”

They got back in the car, with Liam behind the wheel He threw the car into reverse and backed down the road a hundred feet

“Did h

e stop ernails Tears were flowing freely

“I’m sorry, boy I’m so sorry,” Liam said The he put the trans forward

There was an agonizing bu And a second bump as the rear wheel finished the job

The car sped away

Messenger and I watched their taillights glow in the dark And then, ere back in the car E still to the dog or to the heavenly powers or perhaps to the

Messenger said, “What is your judgment, Mara?”

“My judgment”

The car stoppedOutside the wind still ruffled dark oak trees and sinister heer and I could move

“They’ve done wrong,” Messenger said “They’ve listened to the worst in themselves and acted in ways that upset the balance of Isthil, the balance of justice and wickedness The criain, Mara What is your judgment?”