They had seen this many times before, but every time, it brought something new and frightening to their world which they knew so well, and it was hard to tell ahead of time whether the change would be good or bad.

Martin looked back at his father, who was finishing his chant. He punched at the sky, as though triumphing, then he gave a last shout-out, and the sky flashed again. He dropped his arms and leaned down, closing his eyes. This was when he usually received the message,—the prophecy.

He waited patiently as his father listened to the message, taking it in. He looked at Leroy and froze as he noticed that his father’s eyes were open already. The message was never this quick, and the rest of the crowd noticed as well. Martin moved slightly closer to his father and whispered, “Father, what is it?â€?

Leroy had stiffened, and he stood up straight. “I have no message for the people,â€? he said gruffly, and Martin thought he heard a hint of fright in his father’s voice. “Send them back to their beds.â€?