Sun Priestess

By Judith Redman Robbins

She was a passionate priestess in the Anasazi tribe with a mysterious past and the gift of prophecy. She was called Coyote Woman, and was prepared to make every sacrifice for her people. The Majestic Mayan-Toltec Eagle warrior was determined to seduce the young priestess into his arms and onto his land until she sensed a calling by the people of her tribe and she fled to answer their needs as Sun Priestess and healer. When their endangered future seemed to be collapsing in their hands, she helped them. But when she became the source of another battle--between the warrior and a priest of her own tribe--her powers as Sun Priestess bring to her a different fate. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Open Road Media
• Release date: Apr 1, 2014
• ISBN: 9781497632080

Judith Redman Robbins

Born in 1941, Judith Redman Robbins, then Judith Redman Breme, was raised in Dover, Delaware, except for summers, which she spent in southern Delaware in Rehoboth Beach. She attended the University of Delaware on scholarship, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in music education, majoring in voice. She is also an honorary graduate of the Settlement School of Music in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She went on to earn her bachelor’s plus thirty in special education. Her first marriage produced two wonderful boys, David and Jonathan; the older of the two owns and runs his own successful business in Florida, and the younger writes, sings, and arranges music for the Discovery Channel.   Robbins’s hobbies include all aspects of music: singing, dancing, and playing the keyboard. She also enjoys gardening, walking, researching, and an educational, historical, or prehistorical book. During the last twenty years, she has traveled extensively, both in the United States and abroad. In 1986, an Indian Holy Man advised her to go to Chaco Canyon in northwestern New Mexico. When she visited, she had a feeling of déjà vu, which resulted in the inspiration to write her first three novels in that location. She spent the new two summers backpacking into remote places to locate Anasazi ruins, interviewing archaeologists, and doing on-site archaeological digging. She also spent time with the Hopi and Navaho Indians, taking part in some of their ceremonies. After twenty-nine years of teaching music and only a month before retirement, having been informed by Richard Curtis Associates that she had a publisher, she turned to writing with a passion. Coyote Woman, her first novel, was closely followed by her second, Sun Priestess, both taking place from 1054 to 1064 CE. In December 2000, her third novel, Moon Fire, was released. Judith is now working on her fourth novel, which takes place in Crystal River, Florida, in the year 1000 CE.

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To my Beloved Mother and Deceased Father,

Sarah and Charlie,

and to my Native American friends

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Sun Priestess was a joy to write due to the continuing support of my two children, David and Jonathan, and other family members. I wish to thank my cousin, Cubbage Brown, who was there when I needed him. My brother and his wife, Steven and Claire Breme, have also been an inspiration, for they support my belief that negativities and materialism are destructive, which I consistently tried to point out in Coyote Woman's story.

My soulmate, Paul Spano, Sr., has been very helpful in advising me on battle strategy and providing me with a sounding board whenever he was needed. To a certain extent he has lived the lives of my characters as vividly as I have. I might also mention that he did the photography for the inside back cover.

I must not forget my consistently faithful friends, Sharon Moran, Mary Ann Brown, and Pat Miller. I also must mention Steve Long for his computer assistance. As a retired schoolteacher, I must thank Gene Capers, Patsy Brown, the Towne Point Elementary School staff, and especially my special friend, Nancy Taylor, for their support. My thanks also go to Ron Bogia and the East Elementary School staff.

Since I have a home away from home, I wish to mention René Kubler and the Silver Beach Campground outside Exmore, Virginia on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. It was there that I found a serene, peaceful place to write and warm, caring friends such as Barbara and Duaine Williamson and Elizabeth Dowell.

Finally, I want to thank Richard Curtis, Assoc., and Hilary Ross and John Paine for the faith they have had in me and their patience while advising me on yet another endeavor.

PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS

Shawanadese ... High Priestess, later Sun Priestess, also known to all as Coyote Woman

Nish't Ahote ... Sun Priest and Master Teacher

Hototo ... Warrior Spirit Who Sings, Nish't Ahote's nephew and a priest

Mokni ... Talking Bird, mentor and aunt to Coyote Woman

Pochti ... Sounding Board, Coyote Woman's father

Talasiva ... Pollen Water, Coyote Woman's mother

Choviohoya ... Young Deer, Coyote Woman's brother and a revered warrior

Kunya ... Water Plant, Choviohoya's wife

Yamka ... Corn Tassel, child of Kunya and Choviohoya

Eeetspapoka ... Obsidian Shield, Mayan-Toltec Eagle Warrior

Salavi ... Spruce Tree, an elder who befriends Coyote Woman

Machakwi ... Horned Toad, an unfriendly, gruff elder

Honani ... Badger, another elder

Pavati ... Clear Water, another elder

Noona ... Wild Grain, manager of trade

Pangwu ... Big Horned Sheep, building supervisor

Wikwavi ... Sagebrush, an architect

Chakwaina ... One Who Cries, a Hohokam child rescued by Coyote Woman

Pakwa ... Frog, a young warrior

Sowinga ... Black-Tailed Deer, another warrior, friend to Pakwa

Ewa ... Hohokam priest

Tana ... Ewa's wife

Paama ... Large Bamboo Reed, an acolyte

Waki ... raider trader

Yalaha ... Brown Mineral Paint, Coyote Woman's uncle

Chosovi ... Young Blue Bird, also Coyote Woman's uncle

Toho ... Mountain Lion, an elder of the northern outlier

Lapu ... Cedar Bark, another elder of the northern outlier

Pasapna ... Sweet Water Root, a bereaved mother

Pasaki ... Mogollon visitor and spokesman

Muyo ... Mogollon visitor bitten by a scorpion

Menoto ... Mogollon father

Anowa ... Menoto's wife

Utivo ... Menoto and Anowa's son, who is berdache

Numasa ... Utivo's sister

Isnoto ... boy child to Numasa

Kukum Chel ... Mayan-Toltec spokesman and trader

Ah-tzam Xiu ... ruler of Chichen-Itza

Nacahun Xiu ... ruler of Tula

Idis ... Toltec servant in Tula

Ix Putun Xiu ... daughter of Ah-tzam Xiu

Acatl ... Mayan-Toltec immigrant

Kopitsoki ... Torch, replacement priest from the northern outlier

Maahu ... Cicada, new building supervisor

Tatachpi ... Painted Ball, an initiate who must do as commanded

Road of Life

The way may be short

The way may be long

The road may be straight

The road may be curved

The straight road brings harmony

The curved one creates confusion

We are free to choose the way.

Chapter 1

Spring 1055 a.d.

She stood alone on top of the butte. From this vantage point she could see great distances in all four directions. There were occasional clusters of wildflowers contributing their medley of color against the rusts and tans of the sandstone cliffs. The sky in this mid-part of the sun cycle was a brilliant blue with only a few puffs of white clouds that hopefully might bring spring rains to bring about the glorious rebirth of the desert. Many ceremonials were performed on top of this butte, since it served as a natural stage. Her name was Coyote Woman, and she had only recently been appointed High Priestess of her people, the Anasazi.

It was just prior to the peak of the sun's path that she and Nish't Ahote had come to the butte to observe and document the dagger of light passing through the spiral on the stone slab. Normally she and Nish't Ahote, who was the Sun Priest, sat at a corner window in his room to watch the rising of the sun. The sun, known as Tawa to her people, was the giver of life and marked the seasons giving Nish't Ahote notice to tell the people when to plant.

Now Tawa was high in the sky, giving off a delicious heat that was so welcome after the harsh, cold winter. A gentle breeze whipped Coyote Woman's robe around her young body and blew her long hair as a wreath around her neck. Nish't Ahote had chosen to return to his quarters after their observations, but she remained to commune with Earth Mother and give thanks for the return of Tawa, Sun Father, who brought rebirth to all creation. Truly she felt marvelously alive, for not only was the world new again, but she was also blessed with the love of Nish't Ahote.

Quite suddenly she began to feel the small hairs at the back of her neck begin to prickle. A trembling began in her hands and moved gradually through her entire body. She could not stop the tears that gathered in her eyes. Her stomach knotted and she doubled over. Something was very, very wrong. Something evil had happened. This was not a new feeling, for there had been many times before that she had had premonitions. Nish't Ahote had said that she had the gift. Huddled in the fetal position on her side, she shivered uncontrollably. Her entire body now felt tingly, almost as though the next step would be paralysis. She knew it was just a matter of time for these feelings to pass, but how much time only Awonawilona, the Creator, would know.

The shivering at last subsided, leaving her with a heavy feeling. Her limbs felt like they were rocks, making it an enormous effort to pull herself out of the fetal position. The tears continued unbidden as a prodigious sadness overcame her. At last she was able to pull herself first to a sitting position and then to a standing position.

It was then that she saw what she thought was a human figure in the far, far distance. It appeared as little more than a speck on the western horizon. As the figure came close enough to see a little more, she realized that a runner was moving toward the complex as swiftly as was humanly possible. Curiosity subdued her feelings of sadness. The figure came closer, almost staggering with exhaustion. She followed his progress as he passed under her at the base of the butte and ran on toward the plaza of her home complex. Feeling an urgency to find out what news the runner carried, she tearfully and laboriously climbed down the hand—and toeholds on the side of the butte. By the time she had arrived in the plaza, the runner had long been escorted, probably to Nish't Ahote's place, to give his message and to receive a rubdown and soothing herbs. The sadness stayed with her as she climbed down the ladder to her own quarters.

* * * *

She lay on her mat with one arm flung over her forehead when Nish't Ahote descended her ladder. A terrible heaviness hung in the air. She attempted to rise, but Nish't Ahote stayed her and sat down on her mat beside her. Little One, he said, for this was his favorite term of endearment, give me your hand. We have received very bad news. It does not make me happy to have to be the one to tell you, but your father has moved on to the spirit world. Oppressive sadness filled the room.

Lifting her tear-stained eyes to his, she said simply, I know.

Raising her hand to his lips, he kissed each of her fingers. How much do you know? he asked.

I only knew after you left me on the butte, that something was very wrong and that a terrible uncontrollable sadness overpowered my mind and body. It was clear in my mind that it was someone close to me.

I am sorry. I know how very close you were to your father.

But what of my mother? You have not spoken of her, she whimpered.

The story is not a pretty one, my sweet. Your mother is alive, but in shock and not doing well. It seems that the raiders are still very much the same as they always have been. They came upon your parents’ house, shot the dogs, and burnt the house and all your parents’ belongings.

She turned her head to one side as huge tears rolled down her cheeks and into her hair. Softly she said, Spare me no details, my love. How did it happen?

Nish't Ahote pulled her to him and folded her protectively in his arms. Placing one hand on her head, he pulled her to his chest. He handed her a soft cotton cloth to dry her tears and proceeded. My little Coyote Woman, the details are not pretty, but this is what we believe happened. After shooting the dogs, your father was taken alive and hung upside down from an outside beam protruding from the roof of the house. The raiders took many arrows and shot him many times in many places until they had silenced him. There they left him. Your mother was raped by several of them, but they left her alive. My feelings are that they were proud of their deed and wanted her alive to tell the tale. She is in severe shock and we can only wait. I feel sure she will come around, for she is your mother and is as strong a woman as you are. Now I have said enough. Just let me hold you.

And what of my brother, Choviohoya? Does he know?

Messengers have been sent to Choviohoya and his little family. I also saw to it that your mother will be brought here, where you and I can both watch over her. I'm sure that Choviohoya, Kunya, and Yamka will be here soon.

Her thoughts flew to her brother, his wife Kunya, and their small one Yamka. She fervently wished they were here now to offer each other support. As Nish't Ahote held her, huge sobs racked her for quite some time. At long last they began to subside and she said, They finally found a way to get to me. Even Wisoko's death did not slow them down. Wisoko had been a young acolyte in the education complex who defected and ran off with the raiders. He had followed Coyote Woman relentlessly for many season cycles, and finally had caught up with her and raped her. Her abused psyche was healing rapidly—and now this. Only one other time had she experienced such deep despair, and that was when she thought she had lost Nish't Ahote and had chosen to face death by a snake bite. Nish't Ahote had nursed her back to health and declared his love for her.

Perhaps Wisoko's death has made the raiders even angrier. They could not get to your brother and his family due to the guards posted around them, but— Nish't Ahote stopped to avoid adding any undue anguish.

Let us not speak of it again, she said. Just stay with me for a little while.

He held her to him as if he was afraid her spirit would escape him.

* * * *

The complex in which Coyote Woman lived was the largest one of five. It was the holy center for learning and a place for any young Anasazi who desired more education than his family could provide. The time for beginning instruction in the complex was eight season cycles. There were very few females who chose to attend, since most preferred the role of attending household duties and becoming a mother. There were some, however, who attended for a while and returned home for marriage.

Coyote Woman, known as Shawanadese in her youth, had chosen a path of learning. She studied with Nish't Ahote and many other instructors during the passing of the time since her entry in the school. She had done so well that she was appointed as Nish't Ahote's assistant, then as priestess to work at the side of Nish't Ahote and his nephew, Hototo, who was also a priest. It had been only a short time since she had become high priestess and proven her worth by successfully walking on hot coals. In this time of her despair, she forgot her accomplishments and walked through her duties as in a trance. As she crossed the plaza at sundown, an aged woman approached her. Coyote Woman flew into her arms as both women shed tears of love and grief. This was her beloved Aunt Mokni, who was a cook in the complex. Aunt Mokni had been Taweyah's only love, both in their youth and for a short time before his death. Taweyah, Nish't Ahote's uncle, had been the Sun Priest before Nish't Ahote, and both had been mentors to Coyote Woman.

Little one, Aunt Mokni whispered, I just learned.

Coyote Woman could think of nothing to say, and so Aunt Mokni continued. How is my little niece doing? Are you all right? Is there anything you need me for?

No, only give me your loving support. I cannot ask for more.

And your mother? How can we help her?

I don't know, Aunt Mokni. When she arrives, we should know more.

And Choviohoya will arrive soon?

Even as she spoke, Choviohoya and Kunya, who carried Yamka on her back, entered the plaza. Both Coyote Woman and Aunt Mokni met them halfway for a solemn but loving embrace. Nish't Ahote, who seemed to know they had arrived, appeared to inform them that Talasiva, Coyote Woman's mother, would arrive soon on a litter. He also informed them that her father was being brought in for preparation for burial. He assured them that if there was anything they needed, he would be there, and offered to escort Choviohoya and his little family to their temporary quarters. Aunt Mokni returned to her quarters and Coyote Woman accompanied Choviohoya's family to their quarters.

Coyote Woman sat quietly in a corner watching her brother's wife as she settled Yamka on a mat. After they were all as comfortable as possible, Choviohoya sat down next to her, saying, Little sister, we have much work to do together. There is not much we can do for the burial until Sun Father begins his journey again. He refrained from mentioning Pochti's name, for it would disturb the spirit's flight to the next world. He continued, My feelings are that Mother will be in need of much attention and support when she is brought into the complex.

Rallying her strength, she said, My brother, in this as in all things we must stand together. When they bring Mother and Father in, I shall be in attendance. I am sure you will want to be with Kunya and Yamka tonight, but when Sun Father arises we shall work together. I shall go now to wait for them.

Choviohoya hastened to her side to hold her close. No, dear sister, I shall come with you now and we shall wait together. Then, kissing his young daughter on the forehead and hugging and kissing Kunya as though she might disappear, he and Coyote Woman departed.

They waited in the plaza, quietly huddled in a corner to keep warm, saying little to each other. Both were lost in their own thoughts and filled with sorrow. Then they heard footsteps just outside the plaza and caught sight of two of Choviohoya's warriors bearing the litter with the body of Pochti and behind them two more carrying their mother. So still was their mother that they could not tell if she had already joined the spirit world or was still breathing. Brother and sister accompanied the warriors to the ladder of the healing kiva, where their mother was lowered down. Pochti was taken to the kiva for the dead where he would await procedures when next Sun Father arose.

Coyote Woman stood on one side of her mother and Choviohoya on the other. Talasiva stared at the ceiling of the kiva with eyes wide open. She seemed not to recognize them or even realize they were there. Coyote Woman ran the palm of her hand very closely in front of Talasiva's eyes to gain her attention. Talasiva seemed not to notice. Coyote Woman caught Choviohoya's look of despair and could not help but return it.

It was at that moment that Nish't Ahote climbed down the ladder. Just his presence filled both of them with hope as they continued to look anxiously at Talasiva. Coyote Woman looked at Nish't Ahote and then at her mother. She watched him as he placed his hand on her mother's forehead. Leaving it there for just a short time, he murmured, She is in shock. Her soul is no longer in her body. Until her soul can be found, her condition will not change. Little Coyote Woman, I suggest that you be the one to search, for you are her beloved daughter, and her wayward soul will respond to you in preference to me. Of that I am certain.

What then would you have us do? Coyote Woman inquired as she took her brother's hand.

Choviohoya, instructed Nish't Ahote, come stand at your mother's feet. I will stand at her head. Coyote Woman, lie down at Talasiva's side. He spread a mat on the earthen floor next to her mother. Looking at Choviohoya, he added, Hold your mother's ankles. I will hold your mother's head. The rest is up to you, little one. Nish't Ahote's eyes reflected love and also concern for Coyote Woman. Be safe on your journey, and return to us soon.

At that moment an acolyte holding a drum descended the ladder. At Nish't Ahote's cue, the drummer began a deep throbbing sound—a sound that resembled the beating of a human heart. Coyote Woman reclined on the mat next to her mother. Her task was to journey into the magical world to find her mother's wayward spirit. She focused her consciousness, and accompanied by the positive, loving, will-to-heal vibrations of Nish't Ahote and Choviohoya, she rode on the drumbeat. At last she felt herself swirling down a tunnel, rather like the sipapu of the kiva. The sipapu was the hole in the center of the kiva out of which the Anasazi believed the first man of this, the fourth world, had ascended. The tunnel opened into a vast nothingness with only spots of light of different colors flashing here and there. In this strange level of reality, she began to search. She felt somehow that one of those spots of light had to be her mother's soul. One at a time, she moved close to each of them. None seemed at all familiar. She continued to search for what seemed like an eternity, when one of the lights shone itself more vividly than the others. It moved first to her right, then her left, then above her head, and at last settled at her feet. Such were the four directions in this timeless reality, and this was the signal that Coyote Woman awaited. She reached down very slowly and gently clasped her mother's soul to her bosom. Then climbing at first toward the same tunnel she had descended, she swirled her way back up the tunnel, holding firmly to her mother's soul as she traveled. Awakening to the world of consciousness, she knelt beside her mother. Nish't Ahote and Choviohoya lifted her mother to a sitting position while Coyote Woman breathed the wayward soul into her mother's head through cupped hands. Her mother was then returned to a reclining position on the mat while Coyote Woman breathed her soul into her chest. She then whispered to her mother, I have given you back your soul. Awake, my loving mother.

Her dis-spirited mother's eyelids fluttered, then opened. She looked around her in disbelief. A slow smile lifted the corners of her mouth as she saw first her daughter, then her son and Nish't Ahote. Rising on one elbow, she softly said, What has happened?

On a signal from Nish't Ahote the drummer faded his drumming into silence. Then rising, he held the drum to the four directions while sounding out a short pattern in each one. He then courteously withdrew from the kiva. The ceremony was complete.

Coyote Woman took her mother's hands, saying, Welcome back, my beloved mother. Choviohoya and I both welcome you.

Where have I been? she asked. Then quite suddenly her expression darkened as she said, Oh, now I remember.

Choviohoya bent to kiss her forehead. Welcome back to the fourth world, my mother. Do not despair. Kunya and I have decided that you will live with us. She could use some help with Yamka, and we both will enjoy your company. Now rest, for there is much to do when next Sun Father rises.

Talasiva reclined once more on the mat. Tears trickled down her cheeks. Nish't Ahote, Choviohoya, and Coyote Woman quietly took their leave.

On the roof of the kiva, Coyote Woman hooked her arm through Nish't Ahote's, urging him to stop. As he looked down at her inquisitively, she said, I am still very uneasy about Mother. I am going to stay by her side until Tawa arises once again.

Choviohoya smiled with an expression of approval as he went on his way to join Kunya and Yamka.

In their moment alone Nish't Ahote took her in his arms. Then, placing his hand beneath her chin to bring her eyes to his level, he whispered, Do what you feel you must, little one. Just remember I am with you and so is my love. He brushed her lips with his and released her. Come to me at sunrise, for there is much that must be done. I will send Aunt Mokni to assist your mother if she needs anything.

Nish't Ahote, she said as she turned toward the ladder of the kiva, please don't go before me. My life would be nothing without you. Without another word she climbed down the ladder to guard her mother's spirit.

* * * *

Just before sunrise she entered Nish't Ahote's quarters. Together they watched the rising of Tawa, Sun Father. I have sent Aunt Mokni to your mother. She will stay with her until we have made the appropriate preparations for the burial.

At that point an acolyte arrived with some corn gruel for both of them. They ate in solemn silence as they awaited Choviohoya's arrival. The time between the rising of the sun and its zenith would be a time for people to pay their respects to her father. Choviohoya and she would prepare their father's body for burial in that early time so that anyone viewing him would see him at his best—or at least the best that was possible due to the horrible circumstances of his death.

At last Choviohoya arrived. Nish't Ahote led them to the kiva for the dead, where they washed their father's hair in yucca suds, thus purifying the body and soul. The raiders had taken almost everything of any value from his home, but runners had found in a forgotten corner a few of the arrowhead tips that he had so skillfully made. These would be buried with him, for no one could surpass him in his craft.

Coyote Woman rubbed his body with sacred cornmeal while Choviohoya blackened his chin. Together they lifted him to a litter and laid him on his back. His body was wrapped with a blanket. Four pahos, or prayer sticks, were placed in the four directions around his head; his face was covered with a white cotton mask. The white cotton cloud mask would make his body light enough to float among the clouds, for that was where he would dwell along with their ancestors. They placed piki bread and meat next to him to satisfy his hunger during his journey. A planting stick was laid next to him to enable him access to the land of the underworld and the land of the ancient ones.

Coyote Woman shed unabashed tears during all this preparation while Choviohoya's eyes misted. The body was then carried to a burial room where acolytes and students paid their respects. Even if they had not known him, he was the father of their beloved high priestess, Coyote Woman. Talasiva was also brought out of the healing kiva for the occasion, though she did not seem to be aware of what was happening. The elders of the community appeared to place pahos around the body. Everyone prayed for his journey. At the sun's zenith a pipe was smoked to purify everyone from any evil spirits that might have somehow entered the room. Then everyone took their leave.

Acolytes carried the body and also Talasiva to the home of Choviohoya, where final prayers were said and the body was placed in a hole under the west corner of the house. Here his spirit would rest close to the ones he loved the most.

* * * *

Coyote Woman did not return to the complex immediately. She stayed in her brother's house for two sun cycles to help settle her mother into some sort of routine in her new surroundings. She posted a constant vigil, hoping her mother would come out of her lethargy. She used her skills in touch healing and administered sage tea and a decoction of chokeberry on a regular basis. The sage tea strengthened and the chokeberry relieved nervousness. Still her mother did not regain her previous vitality, which caused Coyote Woman great concern.

On the morning of the second cycle she arose to find her mother with her usual blank stare. After using a touch-healing treatment and administering sage tea, she sought the company of Kunya. Kunya had just rearranged her clothing after nursing Yamka and was changing Yamka's soiled garments. She looked up at Coyote Woman and said, May this sun cycle be blessed. You look concerned. It's Mother, of course.

Kunya, I must return to the complex in the next sun cycle. I am not happy with Mother's progress, but then perhaps I expect too much. May I make some suggestions?

I would be much relieved if you would, she said as she finished tending to Yamka.

With a quick gesture of her eyes, Coyote Woman motioned to Kunya to go outside to gain privacy for their discussion, and of course to avoid hurting her mother with what she might say. The two of them wordlessly moved up the ladder and outside, leaving a gurgling, satisfied Yamka behind.

Once outside both women sat cross-legged on the protected south side of the stone house. Coyote Woman was first to speak. Placing her hand over Kunya's, she began. Our mother is in severe shock. She does not hurt physically, or at least she does not complain. What she is unaware of is that she is wounded mentally and more than likely feels soiled. Dealing with these conditions will take patience and constant love. I wish I could be here, but my duties are to the people. I also know that Choviohoya is frequently away, so most of the burden will be yours. When he is here, however, I hope you will insist that he take some of the burden from you.

Knowing Choviohoya, I feel certain I will not even have to ask, she said as she looked down at her hand that was still covered firmly by Coyote Woman's loving hand.

There are some things you can do, Coyote Woman continued. It is imperative that you involve Mother in the care of Yamka. She needs to feel needed. With our father gone, she may feel that she is not necessary in anyone's life. Giving her the care of Yamka can help to change those feelings. On the brighter side, she can help to ease your burden if you allow it.

My revered sister, all that you say shall be done. I am sure there is no other person who could relate to the bitter experience that our mother has had as well as you.

Coyote Woman's mind flashed on her own personal trials when she had been beaten and raped. Just before her induction as high priestess, she had been out walking. She had spotted the coyote whose name was Puppy, whom she had raised from a tiny baby, and had grown into adulthood. She had found him frolicking with a mate and was feeling very lonely after having lost her child. So intent was she on her feelings of abandonment that she had not sensed the presence of Wisoko. His several attempts on Coyote Woman's life over the previous season cycle had resulted in failure, but at last he had caught her off her guard. Choviohoya had finally come to her rescue, but too late to fend off the beating and rape that she had experienced. Too well she remembered how she had felt soiled and dirty. At last Nish't Ahote had come to her to tell her that the healing would be in her mind and not her body. He had taken her into his arms and assured her that his love had not changed. She knew that this was an advantage she had had that her mother probably would not have—at least not in the immediate future.

With great effort she pulled her mind back to her sister's comment. Leaning against the outside wall of the house, she stared into the vastness of the desert and said, Mother needs healing. Continue to give her sage tea, for that strengthens the blood. The chokeberry decoction will soothe her nerves, but use it only if she seems irritable. If you need me, you will know where to find me. I will come as soon as possible. At least I can rest my mind knowing that your house is guarded, and that it will not happen again.

Both women hugged, then returned to the duties of the household.

Chapter 2

Coyote Woman's return to the complex was a lonely one. Her mind played tricks on her. At times she felt she should never have come to the complex for her education, for if she had not, she would have been at home where she would have spent time with her father and mother. Choviohoya was older, and of course had left home well before she had. If she had been like most other girls, she would have chosen to marry, and her husband would have come to live with her parents at least until the birth of her first baby. This would have given her so much more time with her parents. Of course, where would she have been if she had not met Nish't Ahote? He was her love and her soulmate. Would she have met him otherwise? Probably not. Yet there was an emptiness in her heart. She had not known that she was adopted until her real Mayan father had come for her many moon cycles ago. It was during that time that she learned that her real mother had escaped the blood cult of the Toltecs and a father who was vain and materialistic. Her own Mayan sister had been sacrificed to their gods and her Mayan mother had feared for her second daughter, Coyote Woman's, life. With three other disillusioned Mayan men, her mother had fled to the land of the Anasazi and their peaceful ways. She had died on that long journey in Mogollon territory. The men had buried her and completed the journey. Coyote Woman had escaped her Mayan father and returned to the loving arms of her Anasazi mother and father. In her mind her Anasazi parents were the only real parents she had. The customs of the Mayans were repugnant to her. Her heart was pure Anasazi.

As she approached the complex, she took in its beauty. It was several stories tall at some points with a large plaza that contained several kivas. The walls were of beautifully fitted stone coated with mud plaster that gleamed in the sunlight like white gold. There were few windows and no doors. Access to all the rooms were through a ladder in a hole in the roof. Construction was in process in several places. Having traveled to the land of the Mogollon with her Mayan father, she had awakened to the grandeur of her home. The Mogollon structures were very simple compared to the structures built by the Anasazi. Truly Awonawilona had blessed her people more than any others she had met.

Climbing down her ladder to her quarters, she built a fire and spread out her mat on the hard earth floor close enough to keep warm. At last she settled herself on the mat with mournful, dejected feelings. An old dried-up piece of leather lay in the corner. It was a reminder of Puppy, the coyote child she had raised, who was also her first spirit animal guide. He had spent much time chewing on that toy and had been company for her in the season cycle that they had lived and loved together. He had not only provided protection for her on her return journey after the death of her Mayan father but had given her a release for her motherly instincts. As a priestess she would not be allowed to have children or even to be a ‘mother-by-the-gods’ to another child. Her heart was so heavy that she did not hear soft footsteps on her ladder. Suddenly she looked up to see Nish't Ahote's feet. Moving her eyes up she took in his muscular dancer's legs. His robe was parted at the waist, probably to make his descent more comfortable. Her eyes traveled on to his broad shoulders and chest, and at last came to rest as his ebony-black eyes held her own amber ones.

He knelt down on a corner of the mat and took her hand. Sweet One, I must know if you are all right. I know these past few sun cycles have been very difficult. I am sorry I could not have been with you at your brother's home. The deceased usually leave a void in the life of those they have left behind. I have been concerned for you.

Grief overwhelmed her as tears flowed unbidden. Nish't Ahote took her in his arms and held her until the tears gradually ceased. She clung to him as though she was afraid he would also disappear. He kissed each of her swollen eyes and her red nose. Ah, my little love, he said.

Tenderly he laid her down on the mat. He kissed the pulse in her throat then moved on to one of her small pointed nipples. Then holding her head next to his he whispered, Wait just one moment.

She watched silently as he brought another mat to lay next to hers. A smile curved her lips as she said, Ah, so you planned this. You knew I did not have another mat.

Chuckling softly he said, Of course, Little One. With you, I must always be prepared.

As though she were a feather, he pulled her body on top of his. She laughed. So this is your healing therapy. Why did you never instruct me on this technique?

He sealed her words with kisses that eventually culminated with a deep probing one that seared her soul. Removing the feather from his braid, he traced star-shaped designs over each of her breasts. She quivered with delight as he moved the feather to her navel, where he did the same. He guided it from there to her power spot. Dusting it lightly over her dark mound, he gently spread her legs. The sensation was exquisite as she writhed with delight. Then abruptly he turned her over to cover her body with his. His fingers stroked her long dusky black hair. Then, twisting it into a long knot over her head, he nibbled at the back of her neck. Moans of ecstasy erupted involuntarily and culminated in a squeal as he bit the base of her skull. His hands seemed to be everywhere at once. Turning her on her back once more he cradled her under one arm while returning to her power spot with his other hand. His fingers moved languorously and consistently until she cried out during a sudden spasm. The blissful spasms continued until at long last she seemed spent. Nish't Ahote continued to hold her until she asked through half-closed eyes, And what of you, my love?

This is not an appropriate time to worry about me. When you are not so emotionally exhausted, we shall take the time. Meanwhile, just let me hold you, my little love.

She smiled sleepily, then allowed her already half-shut eyes to close completely. Nish't Ahote stoked the fire, then returned to hold her as she slept on.

* * * *

In the large plaza were many kivas. These were round subterranean rooms of various sizes. The largest ones were used for ceremonies involving many people. The smaller ones were used for meetings, healing, and holding the dead. A meeting was to be held when next Sun Father had completed his journey. Coyote Woman ate her evening meal of venison stew, then put on her red robe signifying her position as high priestess. Coiling her hair into two whorls over each ear and dusting her cheeks with powdered red ocher, she left her quarters.

As usual, the kiva fire was burning relentlessly in the fire pit. The heat was already very intense. She was the second person to arrive. Only Nish't Ahote was already there. Hototo, Nish't Ahote's nephew and also a priest, was next to arrive. He smiled benevolently and took his place at Nish't Ahote's right. Coyote Woman took hers at his left. At that moment Salavi arrived. Salavi was a staunch supporter of the ideas of the priesthood with his warm, nurturing personality. He placed his hand firmly on Nish't Ahote's shoulder, smiled at Hototo and Coyote Woman, and took his place on the bench that was built into the perimeter of the kiva. Machakwi was next to slowly and laboriously lower his girth down the ladder. It was he who usually kept order in the meetings. He was most often surly, gruff, and unfriendly, as his name, Horned Toad, suggested. Tonight, he seemed as usual.

A short period of silence followed until Honani arrived. Honani was wiry and somewhat nervous most of the time, but as his name, Badger, indicated, he just kept prodding until he had all the facts necessary for a logical decision. Almost immediately Pavati descended the ladder. Pavati, Clear Water, seldom had anything to say. His listening skills were very sharp, however, and he was very careful before speaking or even making a decision.

Greetings were exchanged by all. The group still awaited three more members, who arrived at long last. Noona, Wild Grain, manager of trade, worked his way down the ladder first. He and his family lived in a small complex at the top of the canyon, almost directly behind the holy school where most traders from other cultural areas initially stopped. Pangwu, Big Horned Sheep, building supervisor, was next to descend. As his name suggested, his authority was never questioned by his laborers. Last was Wikwavi, Sagebrush, chief architect. It was he who was consulted whenever there was to be an addition to an existing building and of course whenever a new site was designed. Each man took his place on the bench in anticipation of the official beginning of the meeting.

Machakwi groaned as he heaved himself to a standing position. Clearing his throat, he stated, It has been several season cycles since the Hohokam so graciously sent us corn and mesquite to replace the loss of the food supplies in our storage bins that the raiders so viciously burned. Since then we have not officially thanked them. This is something we should not wait any longer to do. I am asking for any suggestions as to how we should do this. He then returned to his seat with a grunt and a sigh.

Honani rose and clasped his hands together nervously. It is imperative that we do something now. I suggest we return the grain as quickly as possible so they do not think us rude.

At this remark Noona arose. He quickly responded, We will not have grain to return to them until the harvest season, and that depends on the amount of nourishment that the gods grant our crops over the growing season. If our rain ceremonials are effective and the gods provide, we will take stock of what we harvest and give to the Hohokam accordingly.

With a flourish Salavi stood. Raising his right hand and shaking his head he said, But we cannot wait until then. I have been thinking that we might handle the problem differently. When we were in need, we sent messengers to the Hohokam. Why must we send messengers only when we are in need? What about sending someone to the Hohokam to personally thank them and to assure them that if we have a surplus in the harvest season, we will return the grain?

For that matter, we could appoint a person to travel to all of our neighbors on a regular basis, not as a trader, but as an emissary. Someone who is highly respected would be my suggestion, declared Machakwi.

At last, after carefully weighing all that had been said, Pavati stood up. No one had noticed him until he spoke. "I like the idea of an emissary, but