Zukula woke up and yawned silently. As he opened his eyes, he saw his wife, Jalaja, preparing for his trip to the Vanpore market. She had already taken out the morning catch of fresh fish from the small fish pond in front of their hut. "Get up," said Jalaja. "You are already late for the weekend market." Zukula got up unwillingly. He hated going to Vanpore, but it was necessary. Vanpore had the biggest weekend market around, and his fish fetched a much better price there than in his tribal settlement. He hurriedly ate his breakfast, changed into his best clothes, and started towards Vanpore with his basket of fish. When Zukula reached the market, it was already afternoon, and the other sellers from his settlement were preparing to leave. "You are late, Zukula," said a fellow Vidari. "Now, you will not get a good price for your fish. I have already sold mine. The highborn who bought my fish was foul-mouthed, but he gave me a good price." "All...
Official website of Shon Mehta, acclaimed author of The Timingila and creator of the fictional universe of Jivavarta. Her works include 'The Girl Who Asked Why' and 'Lair of the Monster.' Explore philosophical allegories and stories on human nature.