Chapter 19 Summary

On the day of the Gathering, Kira is awakened by the muted sounds of the villagers converging on the Council Edifice to hear the Ruin Song. Usually loud and unruly, the people proceed solemnly and respectfully with their entire families. Kira and Thomas have been told to wait in their rooms until the tenders come for them, and they are soon led to places of honor on the stage in front of the entire village, seated near the Worship-object.

The Chief Guardian speaks to the assembly and introduces Kira as the Robe-threader and designer of the future and Thomas as the Carver of the future. Then, Jo is brought in and introduced as the Singer of the future, and the villagers show respect to the three children.

Finally, the Singer enters the hall, clad in the magnificent robe on which Kira has toiled...