It is true, there is a volcano in the mountains above the village. Azara and her friend Laleh know there is no God attached to it. It is just a phenomenon of nature. Narda has always liked to frighten people, it is in her nature. But there is a goddess and god that Azara does pay homage to with her healing. She has risen to a level six healer without having been born to the talent. Right now she worries about her friend who is expecting her ninth child. She tells Feroz, Laleh's husband, another child will kill her. He agrees to try to stay away from her bed.

The pleasures of the bedroom are forbidden to healers, though they are well aware of what goes on there. Of late Azara has been having very erotic dreams. They sadden her a bit because she will never come to know the reality of them. Accidentally, Adish, the Immortal of fire sees Azara bathing. Instantly he is infatuated with her, and asks for them to dream together. He is almost ready to reach climax, when the dream is interrupted.

Laleh goes into labor. Azara is with her, as is Narda and the other village women. The labor goes on and on, and it becomes clear that Laleh is in trouble. Azara finds that the umbilical cord is wrapped around the baby's neck. Narda says the baby must die. Azara will not let it happen. She moves the baby and turns it, and at last it is born. She breathes life into it so it cries. Narda is angry that her will has been defied. She swears she will have vengeance.

The goddess summons Azara to prepare her, for terrible things will happen to her soon.

This is just the kind of story I loved as a kid, and it's still just the kind of story I love. So I'm an old kid--bring stories and chocolate. I'll be very quiet. Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual

Reviewer: Judy Cook
September 22, 2004