Balaam adjusted his cloak and mounted the donkey. The road ahead wound through the hills, promising a long journey. He glanced at the horizon, determined to fulfill the king's request. "Let's make haste," he muttered, urging the donkey forward.

The donkey sensed something Balaam could not. A radiant angel stood blocking their way, invisible to human eyes. The donkey veered off the path, causing Balaam to grip the reins tightly. "What are you doing, you stubborn beast?" he shouted, striking the donkey lightly.

Balaam frowned as the donkey squeezed itself to avoid the unseen angel. His frustration grew with each step off the path. "Move, you foolish animal!" he exclaimed, striking the donkey once more.

Balaam was taken aback, his temper flaring as he struck the donkey again. But this time, something extraordinary happened. The donkey turned its head, eyes calm yet wise. "Why are you hitting me?" it asked, voice steady. "I have served you faithfully. Why do you treat me so?"

Balaam stared in disbelief, his anger dissipating. The angel spoke with a voice that resonated like music. "God has sent me to stop you," the angel explained. "You must not harm the Israelites. Your path must change."

Balaam realized his folly and the wisdom of his donkey. "I see now," he murmured. "I will bless them, as the Lord commands."

Balaam approached the Israelites, his heart filled with a newfound respect. He raised his hands and blessed them, feeling a deep connection to the divine. The Israelites welcomed him, their faces bright with joy and gratitude. Together, they celebrated the power of faith and the courage of a humble donkey. The end.