Inevitable discontented Adam was compelled to return to First Tree, which could not be named. Here, surely, were the secrets of the universe; the knowledge of life and death, of order and chaos. Here, he would find the answer to the mysteries and Eve would return; together they would have dominion over the world. First Tree welcomed Adam and loved him as all the children were loved. Bending down boughs First Tree caressed Adam and let him lean against the grey bark. Here, for moments Adam found peace. Softly, a song formed on his lips and in answer came a trilling from the tangle around him. And so emerged Eve and at her feet, Snake. Exquisitely vulnerable she came and offered him the fruit of the apple; It was a gesture of sharing. Adam hesitantly held out his hand. Eve smiled sadly at him. “Adam”, she whispered. “Eat the apple with me. The fruit of First Tree holds the knowledge that we cannot be tamed, nor can the children of the garden.” For a moment Adam heard the truth and slowly took the proffered apple. Raising the fruit to his lips Adam felt a rush of Divine remembering. The taste of wildness filled his being. Overwhelmed and confused, he threw the apple to the ground. “I cannot!” he cried. “Come with me Eve, for I know the names of the world and the knowledge of how to create order. Together we shall be masters of Eden.” Adam turned his back on First Tree and walked away.
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