Finally It is Done (part one of a new series)

Noah slowly walked around the huge ark in order to inspect it from all angles. He craned his neck to see to the very top, then stepped closer to run his hands over the smooth surface.

His son, Japheth, sauntered over and draped his arm over the old man’s slightly stooped shoulders.

“Well, we did it Dad. It took a long time, but it is finally done.” He, to, ran his hand over the curved surface of the vessel.

Behind them they could heard the subdued din of many people going about their work and play. Noah turned to face them and tears pooled in the corners of his eyes. The ark was on a slight rise sloping down towards all the action of the unconcerned multitude.

“I heard they are planning a huge party starting tonight.”

“Celebrating the completion of the ark,” Ham, who had joined them, said laconically.

“Hardly that,” Japheth objected.

Ham shrugged his big, bulky shoulders. “You never know.”

Shem had been listening quietly until then. “Maybe, just maybe they think the rain will never come and we will feel mighty foolish.”

They all nodded soberly.

“And finally give them a little peace about not repenting.”

Three grave faces turned at the sound of a women’s light, quick steps and Noah’s wife Aquinnah hurried over them to them with some of her freshly baked pastries while one of the daughters in law carried mugs of a herbal tea.

“Why don’t you sit down for a moment, and take a break. You have all been working so hard, and even though it is a pleasant day…”

Noah stopped her flow of words with a gentle hand on her arm. “Honey, we’re done.”

“Done? I thought you were still scrambling around trying to get the sky-door to fit just right.”

“It’s done, Mom.” Japheth reached for one of the berry filled pastries. “Mmm, these are so good. You ought to teach Mairekah how you make them.”

“We have been all so busy with this huge project going on. It seems so quiet now. I’ll have plenty of time once we get into the ark.” She turned eagerly to face her husband. “ I wonder how many will change their minds and come now that it is finally completed. I talked to Sukee last night. She seems to be more than half believe that some sort of terrible disaster will happen.Oh, I hope she will respond!”

“Spen does to.” Shem said, referring to one of the younger workmen.

Mairekah bit her lip and turned away. Spen’s sister used to be her favourite playmate when they were still small and carefree. Now, if she ever tried to talk to her, her former friend would smile mockingly and fling some amused comment over her shoulder. It was quite evident that Rhanda considered her simple and countrified since marrying into Noah’s family.