"And it came to pass in those days, a great pestilence arose from the East, spreading across all the lands with swiftness and might.

The people were struck with fear, for the disease brought suffering and death, and there was no place of refuge.

Nations were brought low, and the mighty and the humble alike were afflicted. The marketplaces were empty, and the streets were silent.

The leaders of the people decreed that all should dwell in their homes, and gatherings ceased. The children of men were separated from one another, and loneliness filled the hearts of many."