Episode 2: Enki Sent to Earth, Mollifies Alalu, Starts Ed-in, Nimah Briefs Background: Internet radio
NINMAH’S PERSPECTIVE: An Extrapolated Narration by Janet Kira Lessin
In the Beginning
I’m Ninmah.
I’m coming through this woman, Janet, who is also the modern incarnation of me. Well sort of. Not really. We co-habitate, share this shell but currently, as she’s configured, she can only contain a wee portion of me. So we do our best. We wish to keep this one alive, functioning well, in good health, until she can be transformed. She’s only using a minuscule amount of her DNA, programming, and mind, the whole ball of wax.
Hmm, this is proving more difficult than I thought. Her thoughts are jumbled, full of programming, defenses, strange languaging and metaphors, limits, almost hard-wired.
Breathe. Relax. Try again. Hopefully this process will get smoother. OK, once more.
My story. I was sent to Ki, err Ea, no, Earth as you call this planet, many hundreds of thousands of years ago as part of a grand mission to save our planet, Nibiru. I remember when Father summoned me to his chambers. Wow, this is hard. Words! How to use words to explain? OK, keep it simple.
Oh Father. How I love him. Yet I rarely see Father as he is the Great Anu, Ruler of all of Nibiru, the King. I was his first born daughter, first of a long line of children Father created with many concubines. I had greater rank than many of my siblings because of my birth order. My Mother was one of Father’s concubines, not his first wife, but her younger sister. Her eldest sister was Father’s first wife, Antu, the Queen, the legal wife. Her children had the highest rank. So while I had ranking, I was not as important as the others. Especially male children. Especially my two brothers, Enlil and Ea, who were the most important of all.
Ea was the first born male. Enlil was first son born of the legal Queen, Antu, Anu’s wife. The problem. Who had higher ranking? Therein lies a great source of consternation that was to haunt all of us for years. And I, the first born female lay smack dab in the middle? Why? In our culture the eldest daughter of the King marries the heir to the throne, which is the first born son of the King. It was clear I was Anu’s eldest daughter. But who was the legal first born son? Enlil or Ea? I think you’re getting an idea of our problem.
Men and women were supposed to be equals in our society, but since there was a great shortage of men, gradually, over time, woman slipped from equality and were delegated to a lower social status. Granted, women were important because they were vital to the survival of our species. But after many thousands of years of imbalance in numbers, our society reflected that imbalance and we slipped from a Partnership Society to a Patriarchy Society full of hierarchy. Yes, we slipped in many ways but at least we were still alive, if only barely.
Many of us became infertile from radioctivity. A woman who could reproduce was highly revered, almost worshipped. Fertile women were encouraged to breed as much as they could bear it. Constantly pregnant, a woman had no time or energy to fight for her rights. She was fighting for life, for herself, her children and the planet. Nibiru needed more souls, more bodies to labor and figure out ways to save our world. All seemed lost. Hopeless.
For some odd reason more men had become infertile than women. I guess they are the weaker sex. As a result a man who could impregnate many women was encouraged to do so. A man who could breed became more valuable, powerful and gained enormous social status. We were in great danger of extinction. All former relationship protocols were on suspension until we could create a world where life was guaranteed to continue.
In his private chambers, Father asked me to join an expedition to Earth and head up the nurse’s corps. I was stunned.
“Oh Father. How I love you. Why do you only summon me when you need me to solve problems? Why can’t we sit together, like before and enjoy each other’s company?”
But, I could hardly blame Father. After all, I ruined everything.
As first born daughter, even though I had done what I did, I still had the right to stay on Niburu if I wished and enjoy all the creature comforts my station could generate. But maybe, if I took up Father’s offer, I could redeem myself in Father’s eyes. And also, I could not shirk my duties to my people. Die here or there, either way we face death. Earth is our only hope. Dear Brother Ea had reached there, sent word that there was gold. Perhaps his plan would work.
I searched Father’s face, looked deeply before I answered. Yes, there was still something there in Father’s eyes. Despite his efforts to remain distant and cold, I could feel his love for me lingering just underneath his disappointment. I guess this was his way to reach out to me, to give me another chance.
I answered, “Yes, I’ll go.”
“Good. It is done, ” He smiled.
I bowed, turned and left. I felt proud, happy that I could serve my people even though I might die like the others who went before me.
The day of the parting ceremony came and there was much celebration, pomp and circumstance. My knees shook as I began the long journey to the throne at the top of the ziggarat where Father waited. Hundreds of thousands gathered from the far corners of our world came to witness this historic event. They blanketed the fields with their mass till not a single blade of grass was visible. Winged astronauts, tall men and women with hawk-faced masks hid invisible eyes locked face forward, lined either side of the giant red carpet that climbed the center of the pyramid marking where I was to walk. While I couldn’t begin to count their numbers, I could feel the glare of the guards even though they were supposed to be looking past me. They feared for me. I didn’t have the luxury to care. I dare not falter with so many eyes upon me.
I took my first step. My eye followed a drop of sweat that fell from my forehead to the ground. Light glistened off metallic specs embedded in giant stones, intricately laced, form-fitting, one upon the other. A deafening cheer roared from the crowd, made me sway. I inhaled, took another step. My heart thumped so hard it racked my body. The climb became easier as adrenalin filled my veins. Never before had I heard such a sound.
Father loomed before me–a truly magnificent man, regal in all his golden splendor. Blue, aqua, green, pink and purple jewels adored a golden crown, center point projected down, accentuating his already prominent nose. Bushy eyebrows framed clear, aqua-blue, crystalline eyes. I swear he could see right through me. A huge mane of solid silver locks cascaded below broad shoulders creating an interesting contrast against dark purple robes. A gigantic golden eagle adorned a giant staff held in Father’s equally enormous left hand. I had forgotten how huge my Father was. I imagined the eagle, despite being inanimate, could smell the stench of my fear.
An eagleman brought forth a broadsword, placed it in Father’s right hand. I bowed before him. As the blade graced my shoulder it magically turned into a beam of light. Father’s voiced boomed, enhanced by unseen forces so that all the assembled masses could hear, “I am proud of my daughter. She goes to save this world. I know she will succeed in her mission.”
Despite all my efforts to control my emotions, tears rolled down my face. As I rose to my feet to turn and leave, I caught Father’s eyes one final time. He too could not restrain himself. Tears graced his face as well. I felt relieved. This day was truly more joyous than any day I had ever lived–even more joyous than the day I gave birth to my son. In that moment I knew his words were prophecy. We would indeed succeed in our mission.
Heading to Ki
We’re heading to Ki. The journey’s a long one so we’ll be on this starship for quite a while. There’s only 50 people on board, but it feels like more. I’m grateful for my quarters which are much larger than most and away from the others. I have some degree of privacy. Royalty does have its privileges. Good, I’m tired of always having to be so gracious. I need space to think.
I’m feeling a lot of intense emotions. So much has happened. I’m confused, scared, happy, sad. Mixed up is the best way to describe it. Alone, at last I can reflect, figure this out.
I’ve never seen father so angry. I, espoused to Ea, father’s first born son and my half brother, our offspring were to be the legal successors to the throne. I had it made. Why then did I fall for my brother Enlil?
Granted, Enlil’s a dashing commander and very seductive. Enlil, my half brother, is the Legal Heir, first born son of Antu, father’s half-sister and spouse. Anu granted his first born son, Ea, son of a concubine, right of succession through sons born of me, Ninmah, Anu’s eldest daughter. As Ea’s spouse, I would rule through my sons–the closest I could get to ruling Nibiru since I am a woman.
But no more. Not only did I make love with Enlil, but I bore him a son whom we’ve jointly named Ninurta. Father, severely angered, forbade me never to wed!
Why did I do that? I truly love Ea and desired to fulfill my destiny. And yet, I betrayed him, my father and my people. I don’t understand myself sometimes. I’m so upset with me. Woe is me. I am forever shamed.
I thought all was lost. But then came an interesting turn of events. My mistake turned into a blessing in disguise.
To explain, I need to go back in time to the reign before Father, to the time even before Alalu. I start with some quotes from Zecharia Sitchin’s Lost Book of Enki, Tablet 1.
“Our home, Nibiru’s a great planet, reddish in radiance with an elongated orbit around the Sun. For a time Nibiru’s engulfed in cold, for part of its circuit by the Sun it’s strongly heated. A thick atmosphere fed by volcanic eruptions sustains all manner of life. In the cold period the atmosphere embraces our world like a blanket and retains inner heat. In the hot period it shields Nibiru from the Sun’s scorching rays, creates rains which give rise to our lakes and streams. On our lush planet vegetation and life flourished.
Life evolved, our numbers grew. Rivalries, encroachments, clashes occurred. Sticks became weapons. Clans gathered into tribes till two great nations faced each other. North against south, a war, long and fierce engulfed our world. Brother against brother, fathers against sons. Hand weapons became missiles. Weapons of thunder and brilliance desolated the land, all life was diminished.
Truce was declared and peacemaking conducted. The peace councils declared that there be one throne on Nibiru, composed of one king from the north, An and a queen, Antu, from the south become An’s spouse and reigned equal queen. North and south by marriage were united.
Laws and customs were changed to unify the world. Females greatly outnumbered males from the wars. A decree was made. Males were to have more than one female for knowing. By law one wife, the First Wife was to be chosen as the official spouse. By law, the firstborn son was his father’s successor. Confusion soon came about. If the Firstborn son was not born by the First Wife and thereafter a son was born by the First Wife, by law the Legal Heir, who shall be the successor? The eldest son or the one born by the First Wife?
In the reign of Anshargal, Kishargal, his half sister, was pronounced First Wife. A concubine bore the firstborn son. When Kirshargal bore a son he was Legal Heir by law but was not the Firstborn. Kirshargal, angered, insisted that the double seed not be negated. Though of different mothers, the king and she were offspring of the same father. The council adopted the Law of the Seed. The next king by the Law of the Seed succeeded to the throne. An.Shar was his name. Fifth on the throne he was. Thereafter kings chose half sisters for First Wife.
In the reign of Anshar, fields diminished their yields. Fruits and grains lost abundance. From circuit to circuit the heat grew stronger when near the Sun. When in the faraway abode, the cold was more biting.
Learned savants, those of knowledge were summoned to the court. They found a breaching was occurring in the atmosphere. Volcanoes, creators of the atmosphere were becoming dormant. The atmosphere grew thinner, the protective shield greatly diminished.
During the reign of Anshar and ishar, field pestilences emerged. No toil or deed could overcome them.
The sixth dynasty began when their son, En.Shar, ascended to the throne. To discover remedies for Nibiru’s afflictions, he studied Nibiru’s heavenly circuit. As the orbit of our planet took us through the inner solar system, he launched chariots to study celestial bodies for solutions. From circuit to circuit Nibiru’s atmosphere suffered more breaching.
In the council of the learned, cures were debated, ways to bandage the planet’s wounds were urgently considered.
In attempts to restore the planet’s shield, all that was launched fell back to the ground. A decision was made to artificially stimulate the volcanoes. But how, they didn’t know. The breach grew ever larger. Rains didn’t fall, winds roared, springs stop flowing from the depths. The breast of mothers dried.
Ninshar, First Wife and half sister did not bear a son. Du.Uru, the concubine’s son ascended to the throne.
The fields forgot their abundance. The people’s fertility diminished. In the palace fertility was totally absent. A child placed at the palace gateway was adopted. Lahma, meaning Dryness was his given name. In the end he ascended to the throne. The eighth to reign was the first not of An’s seed.
The council of the learned made two suggestions to heal the breaches. One was to use a metal called gold, the only substance that could be ground into fine powder and suspended in the sky to create a new shield for the atmosphere and heal the breach. While rare on Nibiru gold was found to be plentiful within the Hammered Bracelet. Celestial fleets were to be launched. Gold brought to Nibiru.
The second proposal was to let Weapons of Terror be created. These weapons, designed to shake the ground lose and split the mountains asunder would attack the volcanoes to awaken them, make their belching increase.
Feeble Alalu could not chose. Four shars passed. Savants came went from court, counselors rushed in and out. The king paid no attention to their words. Strife was abundant in the land. Food and water scarce. The unity of the land was gone. Accusations rampant, weapons retrieved, rebellion stirred.
A prince of the palace, Alalu, was the first to take up arms. He agitated the other princes. They rushed the gate of the palace. With their numbers they barged through the barricade to the throne room. The king escaped to the tower. Alalu pursued. In the struggle Lahma fell to this death. “Lahma is no more,” Alalu shouted, glee in his voice.
Alalu rushed to the throne room, seated himself. He pronounced himself king, without right or council.
Unity was lost. Some rejoiced at Lahma’s death while others were saddened by Alalu’s deed.
The Seven Who Judge summoned Alalu. Alalu made his plea. Though neither Legal Heir nor Firstborn, Alalu claimed he was of royal seed.
From among the princes a young prince, Anu stepped forward. In front of the council he challenged Alalu’s right to the throne.
After hearing both arguments, the council agreed with Father as he clearly showed that he had the better claim to the crown–direct descendents from Niburu’s first rulers, King An and Queen Antu. In fact, Father is named Anu after his namesake, An.
Alalu, very uncomfortable with the prospect of losing his throne, extended his arm to prince Anu and said, “Though by different offsprings, we are both descended of one ancestor. Let us live in peace and together return Nibiru to abundance.
Alalu proposed that he remain king and Anu be his successor. As a compromise Anu’s son, my beloved Ea, and Alalu’s daughter, Damkina would wed. Their sons, not mine, would have the right of succession. Father, always the peacemaker, agreed to be Alalu’s cupbearer, his successor-in-waiting. This union, while insuring peace, guaranteed that I could never wed my dear brother.
Thus Alalu on the throne remained seated. Once again sages, savants and commanders were consulted. Celestial boats were constructed to seek gold in the Hammered Bracelet. In the Hammered Bracelet the boats were crushed. None returned.
Next Weapons of Terror launched from sky-borne chariots, bombed volcanoes in an attempt activate them. Mountains swayed, valleys shuddered. With great brilliance thunder roared. The people rejoiced. They expected great abundance.
In the palace Anu remained Alalu’s cupbearer. For nine shars, our planet’s revolutions around Solaris, Anu bowed at Alalu’s feet, set the drinking cup in his hand. All that time, Alalu treated Father like a servant.
Still no relief. Every shar, every time our planet neared the sun–the heat grew harder and harder to bear. When Nibiru came round to the outermost skirts of our solar system, the furthest point in our the orbit–the cold grew harder and harder to suffer. Solutions to heal the planet were still not found. Crops failed, rains withheld, winds extreme, spring never came. Children were not being born. The people ceased to revere their king. Alalu failed to bring relief. While he remained comfortably seated on the throne, his subjects grew more and more miserable.
For nine counts [32,100 Earth years], Alalu remained king. In the ninth shar, Anu could bear no more, challenged Alalu. Naked they fought in hand-to-hand combat. As per the customs of our people, the winner’s declared king. So that all could witness, they grappled in the public square.
Alalu bent his knee then onto the ground, fell on his chest. Anu, victorious, alone remained standing. Anu was escorted to the palace. Alalu defeated, fearful of dying like Lahma before him, snuck away through the crowds.
Unbeknownst to us, Alalu crept to the place where the celestial chariots were stored. He selected a missile-throwing craft and crawled into its hatch. Switching on the guiding launch lights, a bluish aura filled the chamber. Fire stones stirred, their musical hum enthralling. Rockets roared, reddish brilliance eradicated all shadows. Alalu free from Nibiru’s gravity, set course towards snow-hued Ki–a forbidden region where no one has gone before. A secret place from the Beginning of time.
Transmissions from Ea/Enki
A knock on my door broke my trance. “You Highness, please answer your door.” Sud my favorite cousin waited patiently while I reluctantly pressed the release for the door. “Come in Dear One,” I replied and waived her in as the door slide aside.
“I’m sorry to disturb you, my Lady, ” she apologized, eyes unafraid to meet mine. “Your father instructed me to give you these when we were well under way.”
I looked at the ME’s [computer programs] in her hand. “These are the transmissions from Ea and the others already on Ki. Anu wishes you study them so you’re prepared for what’s to come.”
“Thank you.” I said, as I dismissed Sud. Surprised I didn’t invite her to stay, she sulked out the door. “You don’t have to lock next time, dear. If I want privacy ’ll lock the door and the red light will come on.” She smiled meekly, turned and left. I normally like chatting with Sud, but I this time I was in no mood to be social.
Sud, my cousin, was only slightly younger than I. She’s one of my closest friends. We were raised together in the family palace, shared the same nannies and tutors. And while we were competitive in many ways, as all children are, she was the only one who could keep up with me, physically and intellectually. We were well matched so we naturally gravitated towards one another as we were easily bored with the others. The only others perhaps even closer to me were my brothers, Enlil and Ea. Close. Yes, too close. Enlil got way too close to me and now, because of that, Ea’s lost to me, maybe forever.
I inserted the ME on top into the computer. A list appeared on the screen and I selected Ea’s log. I was haunted by what happened between us, emotionally confused. I admit, I felt embarrassed that I got caught, that I got pregnant by Enlil. But looking back, I wouldn’t change anything. I adore Ninurta, my son. He’s the love of my life. He’s an incredible child, now more man than boy.
I always adored my big brother, Ea. I do love him. His brilliance exceeds all others. He’s truly the most intelligent man on our entire world. His genius startles all of us. If anyone can save us, it’s Ea. Why he may even been smarter than father Anu himself.
Ea’s face appeared on the personal screen before me. “Ninmah, I’m glad you’ve selected this recording. I knew you would. I miss you, miss our talks. I’m excited you’re joining us here on Ki. We can really use your help. This is a dangerous new world with many unknown hazards. We will need the medical skills of you and the other physicians. Your nurses, masters of the healing arts, are the finest Nibiru offers.”
Ea knew I was highly skilled in healing arts, magic and alchemy. We knew each other well, sought each other’s company. We’re friends and enjoy debating all the issues. We make a good problem solving team. Ea may be a genius, but I ‘m no dummy. We’re well matched and would have enjoyed our marriage. But as smart as he is, in some ways, much to my surprise, I may know more.
“You may not realize that there’s much that hasn’t been revealed to our people as we didn’t wish to alarm them,”
Ea continued. “But as head of this mission there are many critical things you must know. As you already know, Alalu made his way to the seventh planet and used a penetration beam to ascertain if Ki contained gold. Using Testers he discovered there’s plenty gold beneath the land and in the water. Now Alalu declares himself Nibiru’s savior. If true he’s found gold, there’s hope for us.
What we’ve not revealed is that Alalu blasted a path through the Hammered Bracelet with Weapons of Terror! The ancient, long-forbidden weapons of havoc are now aimed directly at Nibiru! Alalu demands the council declare him king, he orders commanders make him their leader, he insists sages give him respect, all Nibiru’s people must bow to Alalu or we’ll be wiped from the heavens next time we pass through the solar system.”
The sages were aghast. In the council was much consternation. To change the kingship is a grave matter. Anu was king, not only by ancestry, but by fair wresting had he attained the throne.
Many questions were asked. Where could Alalu be? Could Alalu be trusted? He had forfeited the throne by single combat. Now he contests. Alalu was well known for his calamities.
The eldest sage, Alalu’s master spoke up. “Perhaps Alalu harkened to the teachings of the Beginning and the Celestial Battle and traveled beyond the Hammered Bracelet. Perhaps he did find Tiamat and her gold.”
Enlil spoke. “How will we get proof Alalu’s found gold? Is there sufficient gold to protect our atmosphere? How can it be brought through the treacherous Hammered Bracelet?”
A message was relayed to Alalu. He decided to give us his secrets and transmitted his findings by inserting the crystals from the Tester into the speaker. Alalu sternly demanded “Now that I’ve delivered proof to you, declare me king. Bow to my commands.”
In the assembly of the princes I stood to speak. “By birth my father is Anu the king. By marriage my father is Alalu. I was espoused to bring the two clans into unison. Let me be the one to end this conflict. I’ll journey through the Bracelet with water, not fire.
I’ll test the gold, send it back to Nibiru. Let Alalu be king on Ki and await the verdict of the sages. If necessary to save Nibiru, let there be a second wrestling to determine Niribur’s rule.”
The counselors, sages and commanders weighed my words finding wisdom in them, agreed my suggestion was the wisest course.
Anu agreed, “Let it so be!. Let my son, Ea, journey to Ki, test the gold and report to us. And I agree, a second time to wrestle. Let the winner be Nibiru’s king!”
The decision was conveyed to Alalu. He agreed that I, his son by marriage, come to Ki. Gold obtained from the waters would be returned to Nibiru for testing. A second wrestling would determine kingship.
“So be it, ” Anu declared as he closed the council meeting. Enlil rose to object. But all were leaving. Anu’s words unalterable.
At the place of the chariots I called together commanders and sages. A full circuit of Nibiru passed as we contemplated the dangers of our mission. There was much to consider. How would we extract the gold and get it home? If we used water to blast through the Hammered Bracelet, where could it be replenished? Where on the chariot would it be stored.
The largest celestial chariot was selected and fitted for the mission. Calculations and preparations complete, fifty heroes hand selected, the day came to depart. Multitudes gathered to bid us farewell. Bearing Eagle’s helmets and Fish’s suits, we kissed loved ones goodbye and entered the chariot one by one. I waved my hand to bid farewell. I knelt before Father. He blessed me, “My son, a far and dangerous journey you undertake for us. Let you be successful and banish calamity from our world. Go in safety. Come back!”
Ninul, dear Mother, approached me next. Tears in her eyes, she implored, “Why do you, my precious son given to me by Anu, have such a restless heart? Go, traverse your hazardous roads and come back to us safely.” I drew her to me, gently hugged her goodbye.
Wordless, dear Damkina stood before me. With great tenderness I kissed my sweet spouse. Speechless, I embraced her.
Next Enlil arms locked with mine, declared “Be blessed, be successful.”
Heart heavy, I entered the chariot. “Let us soar“, I commanded to Anzu, my commander.
Dear Sister, my beloved, my friend, if you’re indeed listening to this journal, know that while my marriage to Damkina was one of convenience arranged to unite our people, I love my spouse as much as if I had selected her myself. In many ways she’s very fragile. Look out for her. I hope, no, I KNOW, you’re heart is as great as mine. You’ll grow to love her as I have.”
There are no victims here. My heart breaks. I love Enki. I love Enlil as well. I tend to blame him, yet I must be fair with Enlil. I returned his flirtations, responded to his kisses. I hungered for his touch, dreamed what it would be like to join with him. Once together, my body responded, became moist, fluids flowed. Love, long repressed, overwhelmed us. The seed he planted inside me felt delicious to carry. My pregnancy was easy, delivery painless.
Ninurta is a wonderful son, my greatest gift. All respond to his love. He’s brilliant. His presence’s pure joy, his smile infectious.
Twas all too perfect in too many ways.
No, that soul called to us, wanted to come through our loins. The Creator of All designed this destiny. We only need wait to see what unfolds. Time will reveal the role this future king plays in shaping worlds.
Ki, Key to Nibiru’s Fate
I wiped my face, surprised to find tears. I reached for the transmitter, shut it off.
“Dear Brother, I do love you so.” I sighed as I waved my hand to dim the lights. I sat there for a moment, then bade the lights darken completely. I’m exhausted, must find a way to sleep.
I must have dozed off as I woke myself with a snort, a bodily reflex to my soul returning from an astral journey I couldn’t recall. Frustrated, I sat up, forced myself to move closer to the console.
“Computer continue.” I commanded. The screen obeyed, lit up but remained blank. Ea’s transmissions had been verbal only. I substituted images from my mind, memories of Ea’s face, his smile, his laugh, from good times we shared, but they proved unsatisfactory. I struggled to bring my visions into focus, but seemed unable to do so.
Ea and I had a special relationship. Raised together, brother and sister, we loved to play with words, tease one another and play practical jokes. The sexual tension of knowing that we were bonded, soon to be mates added to our delight. We didn’t dream of consummating our relationship before the proper ceremonies. We were enjoying our lifetime of foreplay. We knew waiting would make it all the better when our wedding day arrived.
Then it all fell apart. I did it with Enlil. Why, why, why?
Ea’s voiced continued, beaconed me to return to this now.
“I’ve created a detailed report of what we went through to get here to Ea. Sister, I’ve already given this information to Nungul, the pilot of your chariot. Hear this. Nungul’s very competent, but as leader you must know what I am to reveal so you can be prepared. There are many hazards that you face on this journey. We just barely made it ourselves. If you are not ready it’s possible the chariot will not make it through. You’ll perish just like that expedition long ago.
I couldn’t bear to lose you. Please carefully listen to the transmission that follows. You must master the water thrusters. Select and train the best of your crew. If you have to, learn how to use the water thrusters yourself. You’re an excellent sharpshooter. When we were children you’d to beat me and everyone else in the castle all the time. Do not panic the others. Use tact with the pilot. Do this for me, please. When you get to the asteroid belt go to the control room and be prepared.
As you may know I specially selected Anzu to command our chariot. His name means ‘He Who Knows the Heavens’. I knew he was the best suited to navigate us towards the Sun. We traveled a thousand leagues when we encountered little Gaga [Pluto]. Then next we passed Antu [Neptune], the beautiful enchantress. Anzu wanted to stop and examine her waters. I was tempted for a moment to stop, but then thought better and motioned to continue. “It’s a planet of no return” Anzu replied forcefully, as he maneuvered the controls to guide us forward.
Heavenly An [Uranus], the third planet approached. An lay on his side, a host of moons kept him company. The tester indicated water. Anzu paused, “Should we stop and get water?”
“Continue to Anshar [Saturn], the foremost prince of heaven” I commanded. Anshar tried to ensnare us with his frightening, colorful rings. We couldn’t help but admire them. Anzu cleverly avoided the crushing danger.
The giant Kishar [Jupiter], foremost of the firm planets lay before us next. Her gravitational net overpowered us, testing Anzu’s skill. Kishar furiously flashed divine lightening, thrusting her host at her uninvited guests. Slowly Kishar, the fifth planet faded. With a sigh of relief we turned to encounter our next enemy.
The Hammered Bracelet [Asteroids], deliverer of death, lurked before us. “Prepare the Water Thruster” I ordered, remembering our ancestors, the fifty brave souls crushed to death long ago. I peered to see if anything of their ship remained. Towards the boulders the chariot rushed. Like a slingshot’s stone, each one was ferociously aimed directly at us.
“Now,” I shouted. With lightening response Anzu thrust a stream of water the force of a thousand heroes. One by one the boulders turned face and ran. From their scattered midst emerged safe passage for the chariot. But not for long. As one was diverted, others attacked. Ahead lay a multitude, it’s numbers too numerous to count. Avengers for Tiamat closing in for the kill. “Again, again! I called to Anzu. With lightening reflexes he responded, the Water Thruster howled, protesting as it whirred to meet the tireless foe.
We grew weary. The attack was long and relentless. But at last the path was clear, the chariot unharmed. We cheered when we saw the Sun, such was our joy. But in the midst of our celebration, the alarm sounded. We had consumed far too much water in our battle with the asteroids. If we didn’t find water soon, we’d not have enough to make it to Ki.
MARS WITH AIR & WATER
Ahead in the dark we could see the Sun’s rays reflecting off the sixth planet, Lahmu. “There’s water on Lahmu [Mars],” I said to Anzu. “Could you bring the chariot down there?” I asked.
Anzu’s the best. Deftly he maneuvered the chariot towards the celestial god, circled round the planet. “Lahmu’s net is not very great. It’s gravitational pull is easy to handle.” Anzu said.
Lahmu’s quite a sight to behold with many hues, white caps, snow-covered sandals, reddish-hued in the middle where many lakes and rivers glitter.
Anzu slowed the chariot, landed us gently beside a lake. We donned our Eagle’s helmets, stepped out and extended hoses to suck up the water. While we were filling the bowels of the chariot, we examined the area, tested the waters and air. The air’s sufficient to breathe and the waters are good to drink.
We didn’t remain long, but quickly finished and bade Lahmu farewell.
At last we saw Ki and her companion. We grew silent at the site. I wondered. Would we find Nibiru’s salvation or doom?
We were going too fast! “The chariot must be slowed or we’ll perish in Ki’s thick atmosphere,” I declared to Anzu. I suggested to Anzu to make circles around the Moon to slow us down. As we circled the Moon we saw how it lay scarred and prostrate, nearly destroyed by Nibiru ages ago in the Celestial battle.
The chariot now slowed, it was safe to move towards Ki, the seventh planet. Once, twice we circled Ki, ever closer to the Firm land Anzu lowered the chariot. Two thirds of the planet was snow hued. Dark was her middle. We could see oceans and firm lands. We searched for Alalu’s signal beacon. We found it where an ocean touched dry land and four rivers were swallowed by marshes.
“The chariot’s too heavy and large for the marshes! ” Anzu declared.
“Ki’s pulling net’s too powerful for us to descend on dry land!” he announced.
“Splash down! Splash down in the ocean’s waters!” I shouted to Anzu.
We made one more circuit to slow the chariot down even more. With great care Anzu lowered us towards the ocean’s edge. He filled the chariot’s lungs with air, then splashed it down into the waters. It did not sink into the depths.
We heard a speaker. It was Alalu welcoming us! He beamed us directions of his whereabouts and we floated the chariot like a boat towards him. We made our way inland. The oceans narrowed, land appeared on both sides. Anzu ordered the heroes put on their Fishes’ suits. They opened a hatch and descended into the marshes and attached strong ropes to the chariot so they could pull it to land.
Alalu was so happy to see us. He beamed, “Hurry, hurry!’
At the edge of the marshes, a sight to behold. Alalu’s celestial chariot gleamed in the sunrays. The heroes hastened towards Alalu. My heart was beating like a drum. I grew impatient, donned my Fish’s suit and jumped into the water, tried to hurry to the edge.
But the water was much deeper than I expected. I couldn’t walk, had to swim. I could see Alalu standing ahead by green meadows, his hands vigorously waiving.
My feet hit firm ground, I stood to walk. Alalu, ran towards me, his son by marriage, and powerfully embraced me. “Welcome to a different planet!” Alalu proclaimed to me. He held me silently. Tears of joy filled his eyes. I bowed my head to show respect to my father by marriage.
The other heroes were making their way towards us. More donned Fishes’ suits. More rushed toward dry land.
“Keep the chariot afloat !” Anzu commanded. “Anchor it in the waters. Avoid the mud.”
It was quite a sight to behold. What a joyful reunion. The heroes came ashore and bowed to Alalu.
Anzu, the last to depart the chariot, bowed to Alalu, welcomed him with locked arms.
To all assembled I spoke, “Here on Earth I am the commander! On a life or death mission we have come. Nibiru’s fate is in our hands.“
Your captain’s been briefed how to approach and land. As you can see we’re quite relieved. We were uncertain what to expect from Alalu. What a pleasant surprise to find him in such good spirits, warm, welcoming and cooperative.
Being alone for so long must’ve softened Alalu a bit.
I hope I’m not boring you with all these details. But somehow chatting to you even though you’re not here comforts me. I miss you.
Now, if you’d like to hear it I’d like to share the account of how we established Eridu on Earth and how we began the count of seven days. I looked about for a place of encampment.
I felt eyes on the back of my head and turned, startled to see Sud staring at me with a tray of food in her hands. I turned, quickly snapped off the transmitter.
“Come… come in dear,” I stuttered. Why did I feel the need to hide Ea’s transmission?
“Please, come over here, sit down. Share a meal with me.” I instructed, determined to make up for being so rude to Sud last time.
I coughed as I pulled up a chair, determined to hide my embarrassment. I didn’t realize Ea would speak with such affection after all I had done.
“You Highness, is something wrong? I realized I must’ve had a puzzled look on my face. I smiled, “No, nothing’s wrong.” I answered, reaching to uncover the dish to see what Sud had prepared. “Smells delicious! Sud, how’d you know I was hungry?
“You’ve been locked in here for hours, My Lady. And besides that, I missed you. You haven’t been yourself lately.”
“Yes, you’re right. I apologize for neglecting you. Now please, eat. And tell me how you’ve been occupying your time.”
I made polite conversation, really wanting to get back to hear what dear brother had to say. Earth! Why he’s named the new planet after himself! My, my. Ea’s definitely got gall. And he took control by announcing that he’s in charge! Oh my! I wonder what Alalu thought of that? Well it worked like charm! He avoided a major battle for power. Good for him. That’s my Ea. Always the diplomat.
“Oh that’s so funny!” Sud was laughing at something she said. I missed it! Good, I’m smiling at just the right time. I was smiling thinking of Ea’s boldness and here I don’t have the slightest idea what Sud just said. Well I best pay attention or I’ll get caught with my thoughts thousands of miles away.
“Oh look at the time.” Sud announced. “Please excuse me. I must get back to my experiment in the lab.”
“Not to worry my dear, “I answered, relieved that I would no longer be required to banter in chit chat.
Sud left. She’s one of my best nurses, highly skilled and proficient in herbs and remedies. She’ll be able to assist me as we catalog and identify the healing properties of all the new plants we’ll discover on Ki. This time I locked the door. I checked. Yes, the red light was clearly on. Now back to Ea’s story.
Setting Up Camp
I searched the file for where I left off. Found it! Enki’s recording resumed:
Now, if you’d like to hear it I’d like to share the account of how we established Eridu on Earth and how we began the count of seven days.
First day, I looked about for a place to set up camp. “Heap up the soil and create mounds over there.” I commanded. I pointed to the spot beside Alalu’s reed hut.
Anzu, beamed a message to Anu back on Nibiru: . “Announce our successful arrival!”
Soon something odd happened, something we had never seen before. The sky was changing from brightness to a reddish hue. The Sun was glowing like a red ball on the horizon and was disappearing!
The heroes [astronauts] became fearful, afraid that some great calamity was about to befall us.
We looked over to Alalu and he was laughing. He quickly calmed us. “It’s just a setting of the sun.” He announced, “It is marking the ending of one day on Earth. It’s time to lie down for a quick rest. You could not imagine how short the night. There is little more you can do till morning when the Sun will make another appearance. “
Before we expected, the darkness came separating the Earth from the heavens. Lightening pierced the darkness. Rain followed thunder. Winds blew the waters. These were storms of an alien god [planet].
Agitated, we hunkered down in the chariot. We were unable to rest.
Our hearts quickened when the Sun’s rays returned. Smiling, backslapping, we were most joyful.
An evening then morning marked our first day on Earth.
Day 2: With the break of a new day we decided to separate sweet waters for drinking water from marsh waters. I made Engur the master of sweet waters. He and Alalu went to the snake pond and behold, evil serpents were swarming! They reported back to me. We examined the abundance of rainwaters. I placed Enbilulu in charge of the marshlands to mark the thicket of reeds. I gave Enkimdu charge of creating a ditch and dike which would serve as a boundary for the marshes. We created a gathering place for collecting heaven’s rain. Thus we separated the waters from the waters below from the waters above. Marshwaters from sweet waters we set asunder.
Again it was evening then morning, the second day was done.
The Sun announced the morning way too quickly. I assigned the heroes their tasks. I directed Alalu to the place of grass and trees. I wanted him to catalog all the grew in the orchard: herbs, fruits and others. I asked Isimud, my vizier if he knew much about each of the plants. Isimud stepped forward. He was very knowledgeable about plants. He could distinguish what was edible and what was not. He quickly identified a honey plant and ate of its fruit. He gave me another to eat. I was good! I put Guru in charge of gathering food, deciding what was good. By evening we had food and water. But we were far from satiated.
And it was evening, then morning, the third day on Earth.
On the fourth day the winds finally ceased. The waves stopped tossing the chariot about. It was save to bring tools forth from the chariots. Time to build more suitable abodes for our encampment.
I put Kulla in charge of fashioning clay bricks. I instructed Mushdammu to lay the foundations and erect the dwelling abodes. The Sun shone all day. It was a great day, full of light!
Kingu, Earth’s moon was in fullness that night. It cast a pale light on the Earth. Among the celestial gods, a lesser light rules the night.
Another evening, then morning, the fourth day was done.
On the fifth day I commissioned Ea Ningirsig to fashion a boat of reeds. He was to measure the marsh, determine the stretch of the swamplands. Ulmash, master of water creatures and flying fowl was assigned the task of distinguishing what was good and bad. But he’d never seen the likes of these creatures before. Their numbers were bewildering. Good carp were swimming among things that were inedible.
I directed Enbilulu, the marshland master to fashion a barrier with canebrakes and green reeds so we could separate the fish from fish. We trapped the carp with nets and fashioned snares no bird could escape for the birds good for food.
Thus we separated fish and fowl, determined what was good for eating and what was not.
And it was evening, then morning, marking the fifth day on Earth.
We focused on the creatures of the land on the sixth day. I assigned Enursag the task of cataloging everything that creeps and walks. He was quite alarmed to discover how ferocious the beasts were that surrounded us and so I commanded Kulla and Mushdammu to construct a fence to protect our compound before dark. All the heroes were put to task. They made and laid bricks on foundations and used trees for the fencing and reeds for roofs.
Anzu brought the Beam that Kills and the Speaker from the chariot and set them up in the compound. By evening time the encampment was complete. We gathered inside by night. Safe, we felt good about all that we accomplished.
And it was evening, then morning, the sixth day.
On the seventh day I gathered the heroes [Astronauts/Igigi] around me and spoke, “We’ve undertaken a hazardous journey, overcoming much as we traversed from Nibiru to the seventh planet. We successfully arrived on Ki, which we now have renamed Earth, established an encampment and completed much good. Let this, the seventh day be a day of rest. And hereafter the seventh day always to be a resting day. Henceforth let this place be called Eridu, meaning Home in the Faraway. Let us keep our promise, declare Alalu of Eridu our commander!”
The heroes shouted agreement in unison. Alalu uttered words of consent then paid homage to me. “Let Ea be given a second name, Nudimmud, the Artificial Fashioner.”
The heroes agreed, shouting in unison.
And it was evening, then morning. Thus marked the end of the seventh day.
The heroes shouted agreement in unison. Alalu uttered words of consent then paid homage to me. “Let Ea be given a second name, Nudimmud, the Artificial Fashioner.”
The heroes agreed, shouting in unison.
And it was evening, then morning. Thus marked the end of the seventh day.
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