What followed was an orderly, though sometimes heated, discussion of the arguments for and against the Sisters’ departure. Most spoke of the two Sisters’ dedication, achievements, and preparedness. But Joan, and even Mother Susana, issued words of caution.

“Ever since the death of Sister Samara,” Joan began, “I have detected rumblings in the distance. Resistance to our ways grows stronger. It might be unwise and dangerous to send them into the world at this time.”

“But if we do not send out our Awakeners when they are most needed,” Sister Shereen began, “why send them at all?” It was clear she felt ready to begin life outside the cave and was growing anxious to fulfill her purpose.

Mother Susana counseled, “To have both of our most highly trained Sisters leave us might slow the development of future Awakeners. For this reason, would it not be wise to wait? Or if not wait, then to send only one Sister at a time?”

When the debating had finished, Mother Susana closed her eyes and said, “Enter the silence.”

The women in the Circle grew still. Anna could feel the strength of their thoughts reaching into her mind. She tried to clear a space to accommodate both their thinking and her own. She soon found herself changing her mind several times as she allowed the different points of view to flush through her heart unhindered.

Spontaneously, the women began intoning a sound, like the one Anna had heard when she first arrived. As before, Anna felt a hum inside her bones as the tone ran through her body. The sound grew in strength and unity. The creation of the tone, she realized, joined the women together, despite their differences, and solidified their intention to pursue the right and wise choice, no matter whether it was theirs or not. After several minutes, the sound began to subside and silence again ensued.

A second round of discussion followed. It was unanimously agreed that Sister Naomi would enter the world within the next two months. Sister Shereen, however, would remain in the caves for another three years to continue training the other apprentices.

When Mother Susana announced the decision, Anna looked to Shereen, expecting to find her disappointed. Instead, she saw an expression of contentment cross her face. Despite her personal interests, Shereen recognized the wisdom of the decision and how it ultimately benefited the life and mission of the Sisters’ cause. With this understanding, she accepted the necessity of her sacrifice and its sting was lessened.

Anna found herself wishing that someday she would be as wise and courageous as Shereen.

CHAPTER 21

Somewhere beyond the Great Desert outside ancient Palestine—30 A.D.

Peter gazed across the rocky landscape. Beneath him hobbled a group of three sheep. They were old and infirm. Up ahead, the other shepherds led their large flocks toward the setting sun.