twenty-two
With an enormous yawn, I jump out of the bed, my body rested and refreshed. I stretch my limbs. Sangmo was right. There’s only a little soreness left. The early night did me good, asleep before my head even hit the mattress. The dreams stayed away, and I didn’t even hear Sangmo come in. My outer robe slips over my shirt, my toes wiggle over to the timber. I’ll find my way to the prayer room, no problem.
On tiptoes I slink through the dim corridor, past the kitchen and the adjoining formal room.
“Nordun, come in,” Ghedun’s voice calls from the kitchen. I was sure he would still be asleep. After all, Sonam and he were drinking all night, as men do. I guess morning prayers have to wait.
His eyes bright, his posture upright, the old man looks very much awake. The long day’s ridi
