The Bees

by Laline Paull

“Our Mother, who art in labor—” Sister Teasel’s voice was hoarse and small, but her nurses joined their own in support. “Hallowed be Thy womb,” they sang to control their fear. “Thy Marriage done, Thy Queendom come—” Flora wanted to join in, but the scent from Sister Sage had bound her rigid. “From Death comes Life Eter—”

attack.

5/29/14 mjp

“The Kindness means death?” “Amen,” chorused the ladies. “No use to the hive, no use for life!”

Do not annoy me by asking permission.”

She had committed a crime, yet she felt no guilt, only love for her egg.

hive.

6/3/2014 mjp

“Oh come now—I do not mean to offend you, it is just my offensive nature;

to die like this in honor and safety was every forager’s hope.

Our Mother, who art in labor . . . “Hallowed be Thy womb,

Waiting for hair cit 6/5/14

Not pretty, so you must be nutritious. That’s always a good rule.”

Twenty-Eight

6/11/2014 mjp

With a shock of gratitude, Flora knew they used it to shield her from discovery. They knew she was the laying worker, and they did not reveal it.

Feeling her sadness, they touched her in concern. This time, their kindness hurt.

“Oh, yes, one’s own blood flowing freely from one’s wounds is very warming, for a short while anyway.

sister.

USA beats Ghane in first round of World Cup. 6/16/14mjp

sky.

Fin 19/2014. MJP Wauwatosa.