Inanna served each of them slices of crusty flatbread flavored with aromatic greens and accompanied by generous portions of the meat and fish. Ishvari noticed that the Priestess herself ate only bread and greens. As they ate, Inanna treated them to tales of old Melukhha and the aspirants responded with excited oohs, aahs and gales of excited laughter. Then, as the descending sun set the trees ablaze, Inanna walked them briskly to an airy classroom. “Gather close,” she invited, gesturing for them to be seated. “I have much to say to you tonight.” 

Never had either of their acharyas commanded such rapt attention! For once minus her infectious giggle, Makshi settled her slender body in between Brijabala and Dalaja. Urmila leaned against Tilotamma and Gitali perched beside dainty Ikshula at the...

Please subscribe to keep reading.