Chapter Two
As Screaming Hawk retreated northward, he passed through a large
village of The Gentle One, where he had spent many hours of his youth.
To his horror it wasn't evacuated. The people acted as if nothing was
wrong. He hurried in and spoke to its Elder.
2 "Young man," the Elder told him, "those coming worship the same God
we do. They would not harm us. We see no reason to abandon our homes
and flee. We are gentle people. We will do them no harm. They will
leave us in peace."
3 Screaming Hawk pleaded with him. "Sir, these people are not like The
One you know. They are merciless and cruel. They will not understand
your gentleness. I beg of you, come with us. There is still time."
4 "When you were a boy," the old man reminded, "you sat on my knee and
listened to my wisdom. And I am proud of the man that that boy grew
into. But it is not our way to run from evil, or to fight it, but to
face it and by our example, destroy it."
5 Screaming Hawk knew he could not win. "Then, in the name of our
friendship," he pleaded "do something for me. Send your babes and
youngest daughters to the caves where we used to hide as children, and
let them conceal themselves for a few days. Let also the women heavy
with child go, to care for them, for the sake of my peace.
6 In a couple of days you will know if these men are evil or good, and
if they are good, the children can return. If they are bad, they will
be safe until I can send men to rescue them."
7 The Elder looked at the concern on the faces of his people, and
especially, on those of the mothers. "Very well," he agreed, "I will
heed your words, young warrior. Have the children gathered. Send them
to the