[Story] The Black Cloud

Ahnaf Abdullah - 'The Black Cloud' - Ungraded by Ahmede Hussain
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After a long day working at the fields, Mathias climbed up a coconut tree and hacked out 4 large young coconuts. Displaying his impatience and thirst, he opened one up immediately and then set out on his way, taking the other 3 for his family.

Everyone in the village was in a joyous mood. As he strolled through the grassy walkways, Mathias heard little children singing and frolicking around in the streets, and the women of the village were giggling, whilst doing chores and conjuring up a great feast.

In the distance, he saw his father, Kronus, waving at him trying to call him to something. Mathias quickly ran in home and left the young coconuts and then ran out to his father.

His father greeted him first. 'May the radiant sun fortify you, oh Mathias.'

Mathias responded 'And may the sky shower you with rain. What happened, father?'

'The village chief has hosted a meeting. All the males are required to attend.'

Upon reaching the meeting, Mathias and Kronus bore witness to the large crowd that had gathered to the village leader, Malygos' call.

'Comrades. Today we have good news. As you all know, tomorrow is harvest moon, the day we will reap the benefits of the hard work and dedication we have put into our fields all year. And the best part is, our harvest this year has been the largest in 10 years!'

The whole crowd cheered with glee. Unable to contain his enthusiasm, Malygos exclaimed.
'No one will have to go hungry again! Second helpings for everyone! Tomorrow I ask everyone to participate in the harvest and help out in the fields, and for tonight, to take a good rest and prepare for the next day!'

As Mathias walked back home, he realised that the sky was changing appearance. Enormous giant clouds were rising on the horizon, laden with rain and pale black in color, looking seemingly out of place in contrast to the yellowish-orange sunset sky.

Night fell upon the village very quickly and soon Mathias' way home was being illuminated by flashes of white.

Mathias saw his grandmother outside his home, staring deeply at the sky. 'Dear, a storm is coming, and with it, a lot of rain.'

Mathias responded 'Yes, Grandmother. I hope that the crops will be in good condition. We can now only hope'.