#4

Anna did not need to be taught the sacred language of the gods. She somehow understood each sign and symbol of the magical script. Even as a child before she could walk, Anna traced the symbols into the sand of the temple grounds. Horrified workers and priests ran wildly the first time the child scrolled the simple symbol for water on the ground. Thirsty, Anna wanted a drink…she received the drink in the High Priestesses quarters. Janny had been the High Priestess for longer than most could remember. Many quarters of the stars had come and gone since Janny first came to the temple. Prosperity and peace had followed her presence in the temple. Now a miracle child, perhaps sent from the god Limmu sat before her, playing with her hair, gurgling, giggling the sounds of Sanggie! Why would Limmu send such a miracle to her now? A child… of the gods!

Janny spoke to Anna, now a child of 5 years, “Anna…that’s what we will call you miracle child!” Anna please sit. I must speak to you about the festival of the stars.”

“Why must we speak always of serious matters? Why can’t we speak of simple things, like … like just simple things!”

Janny took Anna’s arm and held it firmly as she stared into her soft greenish eyes, “I must speak often of serious matters to you, not because I wish to but because you will someday take my place in the temple. You must know what is expected of you! The people … the people depend upon you to keep nature balanced. The festival must be organized correctly or Limmu and Azazni will be angry.”

“Why do they care? I have never seen them eat any of the food given to them at the festivals! The people give their best, but no one eats it? Why do they care…what if we don’t feed them? The people could eat the food!”

“Anna, be careful they will hear you!” “They will be angry!”

“The Star Guide who speaks to me does not fear them. Why should we?”

“Do you speak to a Star Guide…. Anna?” “No one has spoken to a Star Guide in innumerable star quarters.” “You only imagine what you hear. Anna be careful what you say. If you speak of the Star Guides openly they will come and take you from me … and the temple!”

“I am sorry High Priestess. I only wanted to know. If you wish I could ask her to speak to you!”

“The Star Guide is a woman! What does she look like? What does she say to you? Oh my, now I am being consumed by your imagination. No more talk today. I must teach you about the Star Festival!”

“Janny, please one last question?”

“Anna, you must address me as High Priestess. If anyone should overhear us you could be in serious trouble.”

“Ok Ok! What about the Orb? Why does it call to me?”