Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

You are guilty of many crimes, mostly stealing and harassing missionaries sent by someone called ‘The Lamb of Death’. For a long, long time you ignored this. Thinking this so called ‘Lamb’ was nothing more then some goat pretending to be the last of an extinct species trying to create a kingdom with false promises. You’ve seen types like that and thus found enjoyment targeting their flocks.

Oh…how wrong you were…

The last missionary you attacked [but were taken down rather easily by them] turned out to be their high priest, a black cat with three crimson eyes. He bound you in ropes before dragging you back to face justice.

A you came face to face with what you thought was a ‘false prophet’….this was without a doubt…the last Lamb….the Lamb of death. Well it wasn’t like you had anything going for ya in life, you lived knowing one day your actions would catch you. Well the trial was set to begin and you were ready to face whatever punishment was to come…without a doubt, death.

Or…at least thats what you thought. The trial began inside the grand temple with you tied to a chair in the center of the room, the Lamb started it with the witnesses and those you attacked…all of them gave their stories. Nothing embellished or exaggerated, everyone gave an exact telling of what you did. You attacked, tied them up, stole some of their things, untied them and ran off. You stole mostly food or some other things like wood to build fires and on some occasions stone to make a fire pit. But those you attacked that carried gold….you released instantly without taking a single coin. Well of course, gold was useless to you, you wanted supplies and gold was just a shiny piece of metal that Midas seem to covet.

Once everyone had given their statements the Lamb called out to his desiples and priest. You counted as they walked past you…

One: Shamura, a spider.

Two: Kallamar, a squid.

Three: Heket, a frog.

Four: Leshy, a worm.

The Priest lead them to the Lamb and they all convened behind a door off to one side. You remained tied up sitting in a chair, you felt everyone’s eyes on you. You were waiting for someone to throw the first preverbal stone at you at this point…..but thats never came, instead the door opened only after an hour, the Lamb approached their podium and addressed not just you but the crowd.

“In light of your actions, we have understand you took only what you needed to survive however we can not allow you to go unpunished for attacking our flock. We also took note of the fact that you have not had proper guidance in your life. It is this fact we decided to bring you into our congregation and re-educate you. We know our flock will show you forgiveness when you have learned the error of your ways.”

You spoke finally, telling them that you’d work in their fields to pay off the debt but you were not staying. You had enough of people like them, you wanted to say more but the Lamb held up one hand.

“I’m afraid…you have no choice…you have no say in this matter my ‘child’. I am not a simple Lamb.”

It was then you felt something you hadn’t felt in decades…..genuine fear as you watched the Lamb levitate off the ground, float towards you and grip you with invisible hands forcing you to rise as well.

“I…am…god.”

The world went black.

You woke up some time later….resting on…the softest blankets you ever felt! Oh you curled up into them, they smelled so good too! It had been ages since you had a proper blanket! An a pillow too, oh gosh this was too good to be true-

Wait…

You slowly opened your eyes…noticing a grid pattern mesh before you and the Lamb sitting in a rocking chair casually chatting with the spider while they knitted. Your body felt…heavy like a weighted down sack, you tried to listen in on what they were talking about…when someone touched your head, pulling some strands of hair out of your face.

“Our little ‘thief’ is awake now.”

You twitched a bit when the Lamb spoke. “Oh good! I was worried I went overboard with the spell!”

Was it..your imagination or did the Lamb look bigger? You winced as you felt a sting through your head, you reached for your temple but your hand bumped into something… very smooth and cool to the touch.

“Poor thing’s got a little headache, well nothing a little camellia milk can’t fix.” That voice…like water ripples..you opened your eyes again and now the Lamb was leaning over you…along…with the squid Kallamar-

WHY ARE THEY HUGE?!

Your eyes shot open wide as you scrambled up, no they didn’t get bigger…YOU GOT SMALLER!!!

Chapter Text

Tools: Yes! Tools, what does that mean? Well I’m talking about tools in both literal and metaphorical, each one of the characters has their own method of caring for their new ‘ward’. This is going to be what they all share.

Crown: Yes their ward gets a crown but unlike the one the Lamb has or like the crowns they once possessed, this crown is known as a ‘false crown’. This crown acts like a monitor allowing the bishops, Narinder or the Lamb to know where their little one is at all times. The crown has [limited] powers but the wearer cannot use, it’ll defend the wearer from any attacks from rouge heretics or wild creatures that roam about. The crown also can shape shift, depending on the situation. It can turn into a doll,a cloak/blanket or a discipline utensil.

Veil: Yes along with the crown the ‘ward’ will also have a veil, the veil can be worn a few different ways. Over the eyes, over the mouth/nose or even cover their whole face. The veil can also shift and change depending on situations but it can only take on one other form an thats a pacifier. This is a useful tool for two reasons, to calm the ward down or discipline them.

—————

Common Care Practices: Now this is just a shared set of rules everyone follows in caring for the ‘ward’.

Rule1: ‘Ward’ must always wear their crown or veil, no acceptions.

Rule2: ‘Ward’ is allowed to wander unsupervised when inside the village grounds or temple [unless their grounded then must be heavily supervised] outside the village grounds they must have either a disciple with them or priest/Lamb.

Rule3: No villager is allowed to punish the ‘ward’, they may report any misbehavior but all discipline will be handled by the appropriate individual in charge at that time or will report to the Lamb/Priest.

Rule4: Discipline must be carried out in private and never in public, scoldings are alright if done moderately.

Rule5: Physical discipline is allowed but not encouraged. Should only be used as last resort, other methods are however encouraged. Writing lines, time out, extra chores, early bedtime ect. The Lamb believes in more of a gentle rearing but knows when they must lay down the law. Thus if physical discipline is only used in specific situations.

Rule6: When physical discipline is allowed; ‘ward’ has harmed a fellow follower outside of self defense, ‘ward’ has attempted to escape into the ‘out of bounds’ areas, [Darkwood, Anura, Anchordeep, Silk Cradle] Ward stealing with intent to do harm/run away.

Rule7: Privileges are taken away when ‘ward’ is grounded, privileges are as followed; unsupervised walks around grounds inside village, access to library unsupervised, dessert after dinner/special treats.

—————

Routines/schedule: Yes the ‘ward’ has a schedule, its not a strict one [unless their grounded then its strict] but its more of a guideline not just for them but for whoever is watching them for that day. However whoever is watching them for the day can set up their own schedule for the ‘ward’

Morning: When they’re awake whoever is in charge of them for the day must get them ready for the day. Meaning a bath, teeth brushed, diaper changed, clothed and fed.

Afternoon: Naptime, no acceptions. They are to be put down for at least a good 1-2hr nap then when awake [and changed] their given lunch.

Evening/Nighttime: Brought back to the Lamb’s personal quarters after dinner where they are prepped for bed. Their given a bath and then a bottle, if time is allowed [or their not grounded] their given time to play for a bit or wander around the Lambs personal quarters.

Chapter Text

He’s the youngest so doesn’t have much experience with babysitting, but he loves the you dearly. You’ll be waddling around by yourself and all of a sudden…you’ll have a shadow hanging over you, smiling with a bunch of sharp teeth or if he’s being really ‘playful’ he’ll pop up right out of the ground and give ya a good scare. Its why you started carrying a stick around the moment your told he’s in charge of you.

Now normally this would warrant punishment but to Leshy he likes it, you’ll try and hit him with a stick and he’ll either duck back into the ground and pop up again behind you or just dodge. Often poking at your back or tickling your sides if your not fast enough. But if he see’s your getting tired [or fussy/agitated] he’ll stop and either leave you alone or put you in a sling on his back and carry you around. The Lamb has talked to him about the whole ‘stick’ situation but Leshy usually ignores it or at least makes it a rule that the stick is for ‘him’ and ‘him’ alone.

Daily routine: So after breakfast it varies with Leshy, most of the time he’ll just let you wander around the compound or if he feels like it he’ll take you on a walk through the safer parts of Darkwood. Though a majority of the time he adores playing games with you, tag is one of his favorites. But if your not in a mood to play or he’s not feeling up for it either then he takes you to the fields to do some gardening/chores.

His husband is one of the main farmers in charge, a yellow feline named Myre who adores you as much as Leshy does. Sometimes the two take turns holding/carrying you, other times having you help pick veggies.

Discipline: Leshy does have a temper and will snap at you at times but never harshly or with harsh words. Despite that never test his patients, one way to do that is doing harm to his husband. If you so much as leave a tiny mark on him you’re going over his knee. He’ll tolerate any physical attacks on him but do harm to someone he loves then you’re in hot water. Other then that he’ll put you in time out for a bit, though it seems tame its not exactly fun when he’s staring you down.

For harsher punishments involving spankings he uses his hand only, though he really wants to avoid this he’ll still use it when the need arises. When he’s finished he’ll wait till you’re done crying or have settled down enough to take you back outside. He won’t let you walk around by yourself though, you’ll be strapped to his back rest of the day.

Reassurance: He’ll talk to you, not scold, just talk in a soft voice till you either fall asleep or ask him to stop. He’ll explain why you were punished and that you’re forgiven, how he doesn’t want you to re-grow back into a grownup who makes bad choices. He’ll never say he’s ‘disappointed’ cause he feels what he did was enough punishment, yeah he’ll say he’s upset but thats it. Very often he ends his chat with a little peck on your forehead.

Protectiveness: He’s fiercely protective as stated before…especially of you, if anyone comes up to you and starts talking down to you or announcing to everyone around that you just got your bottom warmed….they can expected either getting half buried in the ground, a fist to the face or worse…a body part bitten off.

You saw this first hand with that one gopher follower….at least he only lost a finger but never the less…that was something you wished you never saw.

Bedtime: Before he hands you over to the Lamb or Narinder he’ll first give you a bath..though he’s reluctant to. He doesn’t see any reason since your gonna get dirty later anyway but rules are rules, he does though love the bubbles and making little beards and ears with them on you.

After your bath he’ll get you dressed for bed while the Lamb prepares a bottle for you, he’ll sit down with you and then start telling you a bedtime story with Narinder close by.

Just because he’s the youngest, doesn’t mean he’s not responsible.

Chapter Text

She and Narinder are close in age [in this world] so are considered middle children, having experience being both sides of the coin. She adores you despite not outwardly showing it, most of the time she’ll leave you alone to your own devices. However she’ll come to check on you from time to time, you’ll be waddling around or sitting somewhere and out from the corner of your eye you’ll see her. She’ll nod at you and continue doing whatever she was doing and you go walking off. She’s not the type to tease but it doesn’t mean she doesn’t poke fun at you once in a while, literally and figuratively. If you’re nearby she’ll sneak up on you and tap your cheek or get close to your ear and call your name. She gets a little kick seeing you jump, even more so when you try an take a swing at her.

Daily Routine: Her days revolve around kitchen prep and cooking so she gives you little things to do, peeling potatoes, washing veggies and other jobs you can handle. Though if you ticked her off she’ll make you pick out the rotten fruit/veggies on top of the other chores including dish washing. If you’re struggling she’ll either lighten the load or help.

She spoils you with food, you can’t deny; she makes the best food you ever ate. Given your life constantly on the run you ate enough to last you till your next meal but with her she makes sure you never have to worry about that again. If it’s just a midday snack or dinner she always has something good for you.

Discipline: She’s a no nonsense kind of person, you either obey her rules or you face the consequences. She’s got a system, minor offenses merit extra chores round her kitchen plus no dessert. However if you do something that she see’s as a ‘Major’ offense then she gets out her wooden spoon she hangs near the back of the kitchen.

No one but her is allowed to touch it and it’s saved just for situations like this. When she’s finished tanning your hide with it she’ll take you to a part of her kitchen that has a small half screen, she makes you sit there and either wash produce/dishes or peel things with a pacifier in your mouth. She doesn’t want to hear a peep from you for a while.

Reassurance: She’ll never leave you there with a empty stomach, after a while [or what she feels is enough time] she’ll come back with a food and feed you herself, always making sure it’s warm and fresh. She hates the idea of people being sent to bed without any anything to eat, finds it unnecessary and disrespectful. Once you’re fed she’ll give a light scolding on why it happened before getting you ready for bed.   

Protectiveness: She’s like Leshy in this regard only cranked up a notch, you recalled after getting your hide tanned again some follower came in and started mocking you. When you wouldn’t respond to the they threatened to get her spoon and re-tan you….bad timing for the follower as Heket walked in on that very moment. She almost turned that particular follower into that nights dinner……you never said it out loud but you were sure she cooked up their leg and served it to them.

[She didn’t but she really wanted to though]

Bedtime: She’s just drops you off to the Lamb most of the time but when it’s her turn she keeps it simple with a bath and bottle…though she always makes the bottle with warmed milk with honey in it.

Chapter Text

Being the second oldest he has the most experience in caring for little ones, having cared for his three youngest siblings he knows how to handle you. Out of all the bishops he’s the second most affectionate of them, he just loves having you around! Unlike some of the others he won’t let you out of his sight, he hates the idea of you wandering around by yourself. Hell he’s often seen either carrying you in his arms, holding your hand or has one tendril wrapped around your waist. Another thing he likes to do is dress you up, he’ll take you to the tailors tent and spend at least a good hour or so putting you in different outfits.

Bonnets, dresses, cloaks, robes, nothings off limits! When he feels he’s got you in the perfect outfit he parades you around proudly. Its not just your outfit, he’ll also make sure you go out looking like pure royalty! Every morning turns into a spa treatment minus the facials and makeup.

[Claims its a crime to put makeup on something so perfect]

Daily Routine: He has you on a rather tight schedule, aka HIS schedule. It often revolves around the medical bay, checking on patients/Sharmura, giving reports to the Lamb, making/restocking medicine and so on. He takes every opportunity to teach you, whether it’s how to mix medicine or how to treat wounds he takes pride in teaching you anything and everything he knows about the medical field.

Though you could do without the boasting, the way he talks about himself you’d think he’s got a shrine dedicated to himself somewhere.

Discipline: He takes things very seriously, has little patience for disrespect of any kind. He’s got a system for certain offenses, if you use vulgar language or mouth off then you’re sitting in a corner with half a lemon wedge in your mouth [yes normally its soap but he prefer lemons cause one their sour, two he has to use that soap, and three soap is strictly a cleaning utensil not a punishment tool.] after that he makes you write at least fifty times the same sentence of ‘not using vulgar language or badmouthing’.

An thats for minor offenses, for more serious ones he’s got just the thing with him at all times. A wooden hairbrush, sure it looks harmless but you know first hand how painful the back of that thing is. You’d think it’s just to brush your hair, nope, strictly to tan your hide. Once done he has you sit in a corner with a lemon in your mouth, he warns you if you move or spit out the fruit he’ll take you over his lap again.

Reassurance: Yes it all seems a bit much but Kallamar really cares about you and hates even the idea of punishing you in this way. But as he an the others know it has to be done, still he shows his how much he care afterwards. When he feels you’ve learned your lesson he rinses out your mouth with water, lets you cry and will either put you down to nap or simply hold you while walking around the room. When you’ve calmed down he’ll explain why what you did was wrong and why it resulted in such a punishment before giving you a hug and kiss.

Protectiveness: This word doesn’t due Kallamar justice, he’s an older sibling its engraved into his soul. You recalled after a particularly bad day resulting in a meeting with the ‘hairbrush’ a follower thought it funny to come by and stick you with a few verbal jabs.

Well, that follower got to know first hand about Kallamar’s tool called ‘the syringe’. You never heard someone scream that loudly in your life.

Bedtime: Besides getting ready in the morning, Kallamar loves getting you ready for bed. A big bubble bath, comfy pajamas, a cup of tea [bottle of milk for you] a book about medical procedures, what more could he ask for!? He’ll sit in a rocking chair with a moisturizing mask on his face, you bundled up in a cozy blanket as he reads a boring medical book to you. Takes the Lamb almost half an hour to get you away from him.

But just before he hands you over to the Lamb…he gives you one last hug before wishing you a good night.

Chapter Text

Being the oldest sibling they are more than experienced, they’re practically a parent. Raising all of the other bishops by themself or at least till the siblings were old enough to watch themselves or each other. They are the most affectionate bishop, besides Kallamar of course . They just love escorting you around, unlike Kallamar they let you wander by yourself but they always keep you in their line of sight.

They love to hold your hand, though at times it gets to be annoying. Then again being the oldest their probably use to doing this, other times they carry you in their arms or have you tied to their back with silk [or front in case they want you to see what their doing.] and then starts talking to you about anything that comes to mind. They love petting your head too, though honestly everyone does but they make it a habit.

Daily Routine: They keep a schedule like Kallamar but a bit more flexible, it mostly consists of schooling. Despite still having an adult mind they believe you’re never too old to learn. You tried to protest this but…when it was discovered you never had a formal education saved for the most basic of math and very little in reading, they happily took it upon themselves to be your tutor. Besides that they also have a few chores lined up for you, spinning silk and refining it into threads. You had to admit, it was relaxing just spinning thread on to wooden spools or wrapping them into bundles.

If theres time they also give you a lesson in weaving, to them it’s more of a hobby.

Discipline: Shamura is a very patient soul but don’t mistake that calm demeanor for complacency, if you raise their ire you’re in hot water. If you did something by accident then it’s a gentle scolding, however…should you do something with intent then expect the consequences. Like Kallamar they have a system, minor offenses get extra chores, time out, writing lines, foul language gets ‘lemon wedge in mouth’ sort of deal [they came up with that an taught it to Kallamar later] and so forth.

For major offenses they have one tool, a bamboo switch/stick they keep in their room in a corner. The punishment is similar method to Kallamar, but once their done tanning your hide they don’t sit you down. No instead they bundle you in silk and hang you from the ceiling, you think that wouldn’t be a big deal but the problem is you can’t get up or walk around. Worst yet is your hands are bound in the silk too so you can’t nurse your sore bottom or pull that stupid lemon wedge out of your mouth. If that wasn’t bad enough they expect you to stay quiet, any noise [meaning whining or complaining] and suddenly you become a piñata.

[not really they just swat you from where they are on the rear again and add more minutes]

Reassurance: As much as they despise punishing you they’ll still do it without a second thought if it means making sure you stay on the right path. When they feel you’ve learned your lesson they cut you down but keep you bundled, they remove the sour fruit from your mouth but makes it very clear if you were to repeat your mistakes you’d meet the same result. They’ll let you cry it out some more before fully unwrapping you and letting you nurse your rear finally or wash your mouth out. Then they’ll either put you down for a nap, take you out on a walk carried in their arms but hidden under their robe, or they’ll sit on the floor with you in their lap….and just meditate.

The two of you just sitting in the middle of their room, doing nothing accept listening to whatever sounds are around you…they’ll always tell you they love you after it all happens. An they always mean it too.

Protectiveness: They embody the word itself, they understand if someone plays a prank or joke on you in good faith. However if the jokes/pranks are malicious or they catch just the hint of mistreatment….

Well you didn’t want to think about it, but there was one incident involving a follower and Shamura…you never did learn what happened after, then again you rather ‘not’ think about it.

Bedtime: Very punctual when it comes to this, they’ll have you bathed, teeth brushed and all dressed for bed in no time flat. They even have a book picked out and ready, they’ll tuck you in with a freshly made bottle and before you know it….your asleep.

But not before they give you one last hug and kiss goodnight…a reminding you how much they love you.

Chapter Text

Like Heket, he is a middle child so has some experience, though it’s hard to get a read on him. He doesn’t show much affection but isn’t the type to; as far as you’re concerned. However that doesn’t mean he doesn’t care, he keeps an eye on you but in general leaves you to your own devices. Though from time to time you catch him watching you from a distance away, but.. it’s a bit unnerving seeing him appear around corners.

You normally see him hanging around the Lamb, talking to his siblings or just off wandering alone. But every so often you’d be waddling around and out of the corner of your eye you’ll catch a glimpse of him watching you. Hell he may not be even looking directly at you but you can still feel his gaze, other times he just materializes out of the ether.

A really, REALLY hate that smirk of his when he manages to scare you, sometimes he’s worse than Leshy!

Daily Routine: Narinder has no schedule for you outside of a few chores, sometimes he’ll dump you with one of his other siblings. Mostly with the Lamb or Shamura, or if he’s annoyed with you then it’s Leshy. The chores he has you do are just sweeping/dusting around the temple, after that he sends you on your way.

He’s been chewed out by Kallamar for this but he just ignores him, this was a nice upside to him watching you.

Discpline: For every up there’s a down and this one is a doozy, out of everyone he has the lowest tolerance for misbehavior from you even if it’s not directed at him. You learned this very early on, though you were a bit stupid to think he’d just ignore your behavior. You got some intimidating glares from him a few times an that should’ve been your clue to back off…..but you pushed it. Narinder does NOT tolerate disrespect of any kind towards his siblings, himself and most certainly not towards the Lamb. A glare was your only warning, but one day you snapped back at him and…told him to…well lets just say your choice of words were never to be spoken by children.

He’ll drag you to the temple by your ear, there on the wall he keeps a short strip of leather he often uses to sharpen daggers before going on crusades. But he uses for more then that, he only used it once an it left more then just a imprint in your memory. After he’s done blistering your backside he sits you in a corner on a wooden stool, he sits on his knee’s in front of you while holding both your hands in just one of his with a rather tight grip…an just glares at you.

This isn’t like the warning glares oh no, this has a force behind it almost like you were covered in a blanket made of stone. If you so much as make a small ‘pip’ of protest or even say one word he makes you look him right in all three of his eyes for a good solid minute before he lets go of your chin and growls two words.

‘Be Quiet’

Reassurance: Now…something like that is hard to forget, but thats not to say he won’t take responsibility afterwards. When he feels you’ve learned your lesson he’ll let your hands go but not before giving you one last warning. Usually he’d hold you or walk around the inner temple rubbing your back. But if you just can’t calm down he’ll take you into a small room near the back of the temple [the Lamb uses for writing the next sermon, research, translation of tablets ect] puts you in a bassinet and rocks you, it calms you enough but if you’re still upset…he’ll sing to you until you fall asleep.

You always wake up to him next to you…the same three eyes looking down at you but instead of that razor gaze from before…it’s soft and warm. Half apologizing for what happened but still stern…despite what happened you always turn towards him…especially when he starts rubbing your head.

Protectiveness: Don’t be fooled, he may look aloof but thats the deception. He’s a full on bodyguard, after you were ‘Disciplined’ that one time by him you tried to keep your distance. However one follower had heard an thought it’d be funny to use this info against you. Slightly cornering you near the farmland they were about to loudly announce your ‘meeting’ with High Priest….only for them to be dragged off by said High Priest.

You never did find out what exactly happened….only from then on that particular follower never bothered you again.

Bedtime: Since he shares a space with the Lamb he often handles your baths with the other bishops and general routine. Though this is where his one quirk comes in, he always has you sleep in a bassinet near the bed he shares with the Lamb most nights. Very seldom does he put you in a crib, for some reason he hates it more than you do.

You asked the Lamb once about it but always says ‘He just doesn’t like it’ and doesn’t say anything else. Other than that he just simply gives you a bath, then a bottle and puts you to bed after the Lamb or one of the bishops reads you a story….though there was one time you fell asleep in his arms listening him and Shamura talk….you woke up still in his arms…cuddled against his chest. Shamura long gone and Narinder still awake, looking down at you with soft eyes.

And the Lamb simply leaning over his shoulder with a wide, joyous grin on their face.

Chapter Text

Oh yes…the leader of this whole place and the source of all your woes, the one that makes the list of who watches you each day of the week. Always making sure your little crown is on your head, your veil is adjusted just so and has this habit of always petting your head. They make it a point to always have you at the front row of every sermon, always by Narinder’s side. Then when sermons are done they come up, give you a stupid kiss on your nose before sending you off.

Morning sermons could go two ways, one way being you could walk out of the temple and do your own thing…or your snatched up by one of the bishops of you weren’t quick to run. Sometimes it didn’t matter…the Lamb would get to you first with a squeeze and little peppered kisses all over your cheek and head.

You inwardly questioned if they were a cult leader…or an overly affectionate elder.

Daily Routine: They don’t spend a lot of time with you but on certain days its dedicated to you or Narinder, most of the time they take you on small walks around the village, chat with the followers or just let you lounge in the grass if your tired. Sometimes they have Narinder join in these little naps. [He’ll join in if he feels like it.]

For some reason they adore adjusting your little crown or veil, you don’t know why…they just do.

Discpline: Don’t be fooled by their happy-go-lucky demeanor, they’re the ones who set up the discipline rules in the first place so they take this seriously. Much like Shamura and Kallamar they have a system for minor offenses to major.

For major offenses…[other then Narinder] they have a very harsh punishment waiting for you, in their private study in the back of the temple right next to Narinder’s leather strap they keep a Shepards Crook. You often thought they kept it for decoration or ceremonies and….you were somewhat right, it’s a decoration until it’s needed.

Other then Narinder’s strap this unassuming decoration is quite possibly the worst thing you ever encountered. You had a really bad day involving some followers and…well…also in your rage induced tantrum you end up harming Narinder by..kicking his third eye, bruising it pretty good. The Lamb didn’t take kindly to this and dragged you to the temple by your ear. You tried to fight back but they had a strong grip, they pulled you into the temple to that back room, grabbing the Crook along the way. Normally you would be put over someone’s lap but they make you kneel over that same wooden stool used for ‘timeouts’ before using the Crook.

It was the only time you wished you were punished by any of the other bishops or even Narinder, when it was over your rear felt like it fell into a campfire with fresh coals. What follows is what Narinder would do only…the Lamb doesn’t even give you any chances to protest or even plea. If you move even an inch or open your mouth they force you to look at them and instead of telling you to be quiet….they growl out words so sharp they even cut the air. With eyes that burn hotter then the sun itself, threatening to burn your very skin to a crisp.

‘Know your place.’

Reassurance: Like Narinder this only happened once and the Lamb does try to make up for what happened. They will go out of their way to reassure you they love you…right after the punishment they tried to hug you but understandably you ran, it didn’t help that the Temple doors were to heavy for you to push open. They let you try for a moment before you just simply run out of energy…it breaks their heart seeing you cry like that too…but they have to do what they have to do.

They let you cry as long as you want, just waiting near the podium to give you space. When they see you calming down they approach, talking as they do.

‘I know it hurts..believe me I’ve had my fair share of encounters with that staff when I was young..but I know that information is gonna do little to help right now. Please understand, I never wanted to do this, if anything I wanted to avoid all of this. But that doesn’t mean I’ll stand by an watch you hurt my followers, family and Nari. I know I told you to ‘know your place’…and as mean as it sounds…I don’t want you to forget that. But that doesn’t mean we don’t love you, we all do…and know….you have a place here, you always have a place both in this temple…in this village..and in our hearts.’

They’re soon are close enough to pick you up but..they wait until you are ready. When you give them permission they scoop you up into a tight hug, peppering your head with kisses. They take you to the back of the temple where they have you drink some water before wrapping you up in a blanket and tucking you into a bassinet. They’ll sit by your side…an not leave even after you fall asleep, they’ll stay by your side all day after this…ensuring you know how much they care.

They hate punishing you like this but will do it, if it insures you grow up into a good person instead of what you once were.

Protectiveness: They’re the same as Narinder in this aspect, you can recall a particular incident some weeks ago. The Lamb was escorting you that day after you were punished by them, wrapped up in a blanket and tucked in one of their arms. A follower had approached, one you met a while back and…lets just say you two are not on good terms. Somehow this follower was aware of your punishment and loudly announced it to everyone nearby when they were talking to the Lamb.

Everyone was laughing an you just wanted the earth to swallow you whole, of course the laughing stopped on a dime when the Lamb lifted this follower by their foot high into the air with their crown…an slammed them into the ground, it didn’t kill them but they didn’t leave unscathed either. The Lamb then turned to everyone around, putting on a creepy smile for them.

‘I suppose I should remind everyone of the rules again. When I, Narinder or my disciples punish our little ‘ward’ here its to remain between us, but more importantly…they are forgiven an will serve penance with respect and dignity. If anyone so much as cracks a joke about their punishment…well let’s consider this a warning.’

With that they walked off with you, humming as they did. You saw the follower being taken to the medical bay and…well…everyone who witnessed that incident never bothered you about your ‘punishments’ ever again.

Bedtime: Normally they let Nari or the Bishops handle it but only if they’re in charge of you for the day, any other time they take on the routine. They keep it relatively simple, a bath, bottle then bedtime story/free time [unless grounded] then bed. They have a little corner set aside for you where your crib is, covered by a beautiful canopy decorated with little stars, a Moon mobile and lastly protective runes sewed into the canopy fabric. Though they do have a lovely bassinet that sits beside their bed, but they save it for your naps rather than bedtime but Nari prefers to use it.

Chapter Text

They’re the head farmer and other then that there’s nothing distinct or ‘special’ about this person other then that their married to Leshy. This makes them the one, if not only follower outside the bishops and Narinder allowed to watch over you. They’re a simple feline with yellow fur, yet for some reason Leshy fawns over them as much as he does you. Though you have to admit, Myre has some qualities that make him charming.

Often being the one to keep Leshy in line without the use of a ‘stick’ or threats, has this way of getting everyone to work together without a fuss and somehow knows when Leshy’s gonna pop out of the ground. You saw more then once how Myre just bends down over a random spot, an out pops Leshy. Usually giving him a kiss or forehead bump…you never said it out loud but…it always made you happy seeing them interact. They’re such a cute couple.

Daily Routine: It mostly revolves around the farmlands, if Leshy is watching you that means he is too. But he has you doing simple chores like pulling weeds or watering plants and on occasion harvest some vegetables. It’s nice actually, walking around picking radishes and such.

Discipline: Myre is aware that Leshy is responsible for your discipline when he watches over you, as the rules state he’s not allowed to discipline you…physically but he does use other methods. Mostly making you wash dirt covered veggies or pull more the more stubborn weeds till Leshy comes to discipline you properly.

Though he does give you quite the scolding thats for sure.

Protectiveness: He’s as protective as Leshy is, if he spots any of the other farmers messing with you or just being jerks in general you can bet he’s there with a stern voice [and maybe a fist to their face if they so much lay a finger on ya. Ah reason number 354 of why Leshy over him]

Bedtime: He likes helping Leshy with this, though as stated before Leshy doesn’t like baths thinking it’s a waste of time. Thats what Myre’s for, they make sure you get a bath before going back to the Lamb and they make it fun-….at least for Leshy. Nothing too crazy happens, it goes as well as you would think with them. Though Myre does make sure you’re dried off before dressing and…you had to admit…they told the best stories at times.

Chapter Text

They don’t normally visit the Lamb’s village, but when they do it’s always to see Narinder. However when they came to learn of your arrival their visits became more frequent, stopping by for a day or two just to see you. The Lamb encouraged this seeing how taken the twins are with you. Baal being more vocal on how adorable you look while Aym; though quiet also tends to fawn over you in his own way. They seemed to have a strong need to always have you close or in line of sight, similar to Narinder.

Daily Routine: Since they don’t visit as often they stick to simple babysitting duties with you, often walking you around the village or following Narinder. They also held you in their own way, while Aym had you on his back Baal wanted you always in his arms. Often nuzzling your head or stealing a kiss on your cheek…Aym does it too but he does it when no one’s looking.

Discipline: Much like Myre they’re not allowed to really ‘punish’ you, but they won’t hesitate to report any wrong doing to the closest caretaker. They are however given special permission to implement some punishments but mostly the same Myre uses, such as time out, lemon wedges, an [only Narinder allows this] flicks to the nose or ear if you start sassing off.

Protectiveness: These two are full on body guards, they won’t let anyone mess with you [outside the disciples, Narinder or the Lamb] they’re at the ‘big brothers’ level of protection. Heck if someone makes just an off handed comment about you, you can bet one of them has that person pinned and demanding they take back the comment. [The Lamb has talked to them about this but…what can ya do.]

Bedtime: They share quarters near where the Lamb sleeps but at times will spend the night in the Lamb’s tent with you. They make sure your well bathed, dressed and often sneak you a little bedtime snack/treat. Instead of the usual fairytales you’d be read, the twins will regale you with stories of their explorations out in the wilds of the four lands. Normally the Lamb or Narinder would put you in either your crib or bassinet but if the twins are over…you can expect sleeping between the two of them on their bed.

Despite what one might think…its quite comfy, cuddling with two loving big brothers looking after you.

Chapter Text

You thought things couldn’t get worse…well…it did when the Lamb brought to the camp this stranger. The Goat, seemed like they caused trouble just for the sake of it and…you were right. The Goat seemed to love making mischief, sometimes involving you. Often you’d get the blame, thankfully if the ‘prank’ the Goat pulls which you get blamed for is gonna call for you getting your hide tanned then they’ll step up and take responsibility. They hate the idea of you getting seriously punished for anything they do.

Morning Routine: The Goats routine mostly consists of what the Lamb does, despite their mischievous tendencies they are extremely helpful to the lamb, making sure sermons are performed. Mostly leavening you to your own devices but will make it a point to check on you periodically.

Discipline: The Goat has little patience for disrespect, they’d take you over their knee in the middle of the camp if they could but since they are a ‘guest’ in the Lamb’s cult they abide by the Lamb’s rules and punish you in private. But make no mistake they are not gentle, they are pretty harsh at times and screamed at you if you try and mouth off or protest.

Reassurance: Yes they are harsh but they care just as much, if they feel they went to far they will tell the Lamb who mediates an apology to you. The Lamb will encourage forgiveness but that is on you to decide. You do forgive them after a while…but that takes ‘quite’ a while.

Protectiveness: As hash as they are, they’re just as protective too even more then the Lamb. Heck once the Lamb had to drag them off a follower after they made a comment about you. Despite the fact they deserved it or not is up for debate but still…that follower knew better not to make fun of you when the Goat is around.

Bedtime: The Goat just hands you over to the Lamb, no bath, no bedtime story, just hands you over…..right after a hug and a goodnight kiss. They got crusading to do.

Chapter Text

This will be an alternate story where in this the Bishops are still in power and Narinder can resurrect the dead but keeps it only between himself, his siblings…and his spouse aka The Lamb who is still his vessel but only when the need arises. You are a thief who has been causing some trouble but not enough to raise the ire of the bishops…until recently. Other smaller cults have been getting mad about your antics, so much so their pulling stupid stunts and attacking the churches of the bishops themselves. Granted you’re not at fault for that but your stunts have made some enemies.

You were running away from one of the smaller cults when you ran into Chemech and she [in her infinite state of madness] somehow managed to make a tiny crown and put it on your head. Maybe she thought you needed one or maybe she thought it was cute…either way this crown had a major side effect, the moment you left your body physically regressed to that of a toddler. Now this made escaping even more difficult, you couldn’t move as fast however your magic had grown stronger…perhaps..a bit ‘too’ strong. As when you used one curse on a rouge fanatic it knocked you back and almost burned your hand!

With that said these next chapters will be of the bishops and how each may have captured you with some help from their followers. It will follow the same pattern starting with Leshy, if you would like to write the actual scenarios from the POV of the Thief please leave a comment below stating so. 

Chapter Text

You weren’t always a thief, no you were a performer in training. The troupe you had was small but skilled, four talented dancers, two amazing (mortal) magic users, seven fearless acrobats and a benevolent ring leader who made sure all of you were fed and cared for. They were more of a parent than someone who ran a traveling circus, life was simple. You were found by said troupe when you were an infant, you were told that your family had given you up cause of their high priest claiming you were a ‘bad omen’ for some reason. The ring leader always said they were …in his opinion ‘nut jobs’ as they listened to false prophets.

The ring leader believed in the five bishops of the land, you never paid any attention to it but did what you were told. If they came across one of their statues you bowed to it and gave it respect, thats how it went.

….Then it went all to hell…

The very same followers whom your birth parents were apart of attacked your troupe one night during a performance, they set fire to the tent and killed almost everyone in the circus. You managed to escape with the ring leaders help…but they succumbed to their injuries and died. An for what reason did this group need to kill your circus? Well at first it was cause their beloved leader told them you were a group of heretics mascaraing as a circus…in reality its cause one of the dancers refused to sleep with them and so killed the troupe as a way to get back at them.

……You’d swore revenge in any possible way, you started with recon. This ‘leader’ was called Minos, he had two other accomplishes who orchestrated this disaster. You spied for weeks on them and one by one gathered so much evidence to prove how false they were, claiming to be chosen by the ‘old gods’. You started off small, stealing little things from around their camps then in one day aimed big. You started cutting off supplies to their villages but more importantly to the churches themselves.

Yeah they grew desperate and started targeting other towns but you didn’t care, it was apart of the plan to expose them for the corrupt people they were. Then came the big day…a giant festival they were to hold their own honor. You slipped in as a ‘dancer’ and were performing..your big finally came when you exposed Minos by throwing out slips of papers out into the crowd, copied letters of all their plans and misdeeds. Everything erupted into pure chaos after that…Minos was trying to keep everyone calm…but that failed when you turned…and with the magic you learned back in the circus…set fire to his precious church that held all his treasures in.

Invaluable treasures, things that were the source of not just his power but that of his two accomplices. With that…you slunk away.

Now that was done…you just had to keep to hiding from the guy until he died, in the weeks that followed all his followers went crazy and either went attacking random people or just tried finding new cults to join. You didn’t care what happened to them or what they did, in your mind they all could drown in their own waste as far as you were concerned. You spent your days as a thief stealing only what you needed, from time to time you’d help a random stranger out but that was the extent of whatever kindness you had left.

Life…was…moving…

An once again it came to a grinding halt the moment you wandered into the halls of Chemach, the mad bird who made relics.

“Welcome little traveler! I’ve been expecting you!”

Expecting…that was not what you wanted to hear from a crazy bird, you recalled she had two brothers, one you met when you were just a toddler. Kudaii, he kinda scared you when you were little but did make great weapons, at least thats what the ring leader told you. You tried to be polite and leave….only for that crazy bird to pull you up by your cloak, her eyes wide and crazed but her voice all cheery.

“Wait! Wait! You mustn’t leave without it!” Before you could ask what she ment something was plopped on your head. “Blessed yes you are, sweet little one! Blessed now are six!”

She plopped you on the floor and rose to the ceiling, hoisted by her chains. You just sat there stunned for a moment, you tried to feel the top of your head to see what she put there..but you didn’t feel anything. With that you got up and ran out…but the second you did…you felt what she place on your head…

…and you fell.

You went tumbling down a hill, when you landed you landed hard. You took tumbles before but this was the first time it hurt so badly, hell you were about ready to cry-…you caught sight of your own reflection in a nearby puddle….no longer an adult…but a toddler….with a distinct crown on their head. The center was white with a single star shape to it…

…an it was staring back at you.

Chapter Text

Darkwood is his domain, all bow before the bishop of chaos! However don’t be fooled by his chaotic ways, there are places in Darkwood that are created to be homes for his following. Especially for children, Leshy adores children. Many times Shamura has caught their brother sneaking off to play with the children of his cult, an as it goes…Shamura doesn’t stop him. Leshy loves how chaotic children are before adulthood, yes they must learn order but oh how he loves to watch them run around, yell and cause all kinds of mischief. Besides its best they got it out during childhood at times, a chaotic adult was good as a soldier but not as a priest or cultist.

Though he loves how chaotic children are that doesn’t mean he lets them run around unsupervised, even he has rules an he enforces them with the help of his husband/high priest Myre. With his help they keep the little ones in line an also safe, the children learned very early on if they ever disobey Myre or Leshy they’re in for a bad time.

Leshy’s thoughts ‘The Thief’ [aka you]:

At first he dismissed your antics as one off events, going so far as to say your actions were childish at best. But when you started causing some real trouble and it was spilling into his territory…then he started getting annoyed. He really got pissed when Myre got attacked by heretics who believed him to be an accomplice of yours. He’s aware you’re not a bad person or that any of this is your fault but he can’t ignore you’ve become quite a nuisance.

Leshy catches you:

Your capture wasn’t easy but he managed with help from his loyal subordinates, he was surprised to find you regressed to that of a child but at the same time hilarious when he found out ‘how’ this came to be. Hell, Barbartos was laughing so hard he nearly passed out! Despite the comedic circumstance they all had a job to do…they took their eyes off you for a few seconds and you had run off.

Well, Leshy was gonna give you a ten minute head start anyway and let his followers go after you. Amdusias chased you for a good five minutes to tire you out or at least tried, you managed to hide from him. Valefar set traps for you but you evaded them well enough. However, Barbatos and Agares were a whole different level of hard. They both chased you and somehow managed to corner you, catching you in a pitfall trap of all things!

By then your crown was low on power and you didn’t have enough fervour to conjure any curses to defend yourself! You glared up at them expecting to hear nothing but mockery…only to be met with a look of concern etched into their faces. It wasn’t long before Leshy showed up with Myre and his other subordinates at his side, all of them holding items. Now that you thought about it…you felt…really dizzy, your stomach was doing more flips than an acrobat, your poor head felt like someone was trying to squish it using rocks.

Before you knew it…you were being bundled up in blankets and a water-skin filled with milk was pushed to your lips……you drank it down like it was your last meal. The last thing you saw was Leshy staring down at you…

With a gaping maw of sharp teeth.

Leshy’s thoughts after your capture:

Slightly surprised given how little you were, more so when he saw your crown. However, It melted into pure glee cause now he wasn’t the youngest bishop! He’s a ‘big brother’ now! Oh he couldn’t wait to bring you back to the others! First though…had to get you fixed up, he could tell you used up way too much of the crowns magic and now it was running on empty, no matter; a little bit of his ichor and the crown would have enough energy to at least keep you from getting even sicker. Plus some warm camellia milk always was a natural panacea for babies!

Thank goodness for Myre’s foresight, having a lot of supplies with him. Even diapers! Leshy did know you were young but not ‘that’ young, their hubby had you dressed and bundled in seconds. Cradling you while feeding you, Leshy felt his heart flutter at the sight…Myre is just so precious when they’re caring for children!

Leshy’s training:

His methods were as off the cuff as they got, they gave you a weapon and let you swing it around at any moving target! Out into Darkwood he’d take you and gave you specific tasks, kill ten creatures, use a certain amount of fervour on a curse. You half expected him to up and leave you alone but…you were always followed by one of his most loyal subordinates. The main two being Barbatos and Agares, they ‘never’ left your side. One carrying supplies while the other was hovering over you, hell they even made you take small snack breaks and naps during these tasks.

Laying out a tent and guarding it while you slept, you once tried to sneak away…but that didn’t work. Not cause you couldn’t sneak away, you were just too exhausted and when you did try all you did was crawl to one corner of the tent and plop down. By sundown you were nearly drained and ready to drop dead…not really but close enough.

Leshy would take over then, dismissing his two loyal followers before he and Myre got you ready for dinner.

Discipline:

Now don’t think cause you have powers you’re gonna go around bossing his followers, you’re just a child right now and therefore must adhere to the rules set before you. Yes even Leshy has rules. Break them a your going over his knee…ok maybe not ‘his’ knee given your size but he does have one of his subordinates help with that or Myre. Myre’s not afraid to tan your hide if you need to be put in your place, hell he’ll make you cut a switch if it comes to it.

(But Leshy doesn’t like that, he honestly thinks using your hand is enough…cutting branches just to spank a child is; in his mind, unnecessary and a little too mean)

Now it’s not to say Leshy won’t give you comfort afterwards, even his disciples [which ever spanked you that time] always gives you reassurance. Explaining why you are being punished, Myre makes that a point anytime it happens. Leshy’s following is careful to get his permission first before even considering the idea. If they can’t find Leshy they go to Myre, if Leshy’s away he’s in charge.

Bedtime:

If he’s watching you then you can expect you staying up past your bedtime by…five minutes, he likes playing with you before bed. He tires you out easily by play fighting with you. Which just means he lays on the ground and lets you try an beat him up, since your so small he will pin you with one hand [gently] and tickle your sides till you’er out of breath.

After a good match with him, he’ll have Myre take you and give you a quick bath before being put down to bed in a little nest he made, it sits in the center of his personal nest. The three of you cuddled together, tucked into warm hand woven blankets. Lulled to sleep by Myre’s gentle voice as he tells you a story/sings you to sleep..and the sound of the wind rustling the trees of Darkwood.

Chapter Text

Anura is a hospitable place if not accustomed to its surroundings, however once born in Anura you are under the protection of Heket. Every child born in her land is raised to appreciate all that the lands can give, above all the nourishment it provides. The one thing she can’t stand is seeing a child going hungry, she makes sure none of her people are without food.

If food is scarce she goes out to forage for food, taking children with her so she can show them how to not just forage like her but to hunt as well. Shamura taught her well in that regard, but more importantly she was taught what was edible and what was is not. She makes it clear to stay away from a certain mushroom, when their adults then they can partake in this unusual fungus but in extremely small doses. Her love of the children in her cult is as strong as her, she can be tough but is no less fair to the little ones.

It’s why many children of her cult call her ‘Mother Heket’.

Heket’s thoughts ‘The Thief’ [aka you]:

She finds you extremely annoying, she made it clear to her followers that they are not to go near you but will understand if they wish to aid you if you are injured or in need of help. But other than that she makes it very clear she does not tolerate your presence in her lands and only proven more when your antics start affecting the livelihood of her cult. She once roared a curse at you when heretics who were after you attacked one of her villages, she warned if she found you she’d make you regret ever taking up the life of a thief.

Heket catches you:

You certainly gave her a run for her gold, though it didn’t help that her followers were hellbent on your capture. However being regressed did give you an advantage, one being unaware of this fact and two making it easy to hide. But there was a huge disadvantage as you were not familiar with Anura at all, the land was unforgiving! Sure you could move about but…you had no idea about the plants in this place.

The crown did keep your hunger at bay for some time but after a while you slowly it began to take hold of you. A few times you thought about sneaking into one of the camps of Heket’s most loyal and stealing some food but…you knew that was too risky, they had traps set around the area to ensure. However you did manage to snag food from one of them..somehow, you stole a bag from the one called Gusion. Narrowly escaping their chase, one alone you reached in and shoved what was inside into your mouth…but when you chewed it a few times…realizing too late you had just partially consumed menticide mushrooms. You spat it out but by then it was too late, you began seeing things, worst yet; since your stomach was empty this made the affects even worse.

It was Eligos and Zepar that found you, shocked to see that you not only have a crown but had regressed as well. They didn’t have time to laugh at this, more focused on getting you restrained due to your body convulsing from the mushrooms. Bathin, having heard of your condition waisted no time summoning Heket. One drop of ichor to your crown dulled the affects of the mushrooms enough to make you semi-coherent. Fear gripped you when she took you into her hands, half expecting her to devour you…

Instead gently cradling you as she sat down with her loyal subordinates, ripping off pieces of bread from her satchel, soaking them in milk…and feeding you. She lived up to the rumors…

…She never lets a child go hungry.

Heket’s thoughts after your capture:

She certainly wasn’t expecting to see you with a crown, much less regressed to near infancy. But she couldn’t dwell on that fact after hearing you ingested menticide, if she knew you were in this state she’d never let Guison go through with his plan. Though even he didn’t know, so no one was punished, instead they focused on making sure you recovered.

She did find you adorable, curled up in her hands as you accepted bits of ‘milk bread’ from her. She didn’t forget about your past deeds though, but she was going to deal with later when they spoke to Shamura and her other siblings. Since they weren’t expecting you to be a toddler they weren’t prepared but made do, Bathin using some old cloth as a makeshift diaper for you. In Anura you sometimes had to improvise.

Heket’s training:

She was both hands on and off with you, in the beginning she’s glued to you; hovering over every step you take in Anura. If you came across any plant she’d quiz you on what kind it was, not all at once but in the beginning. You found this so annoying and tried to ignore the questions but she would keep answering until you’d give her an answer. Though don’t think you can just lie and answer with ‘I don’t know’ cause if you do she’ll just make you sit down and listen as she explains what you already know. You found this out rather quickly, since then you were more honest in your responses.

When she feels your knowledge of her domaine is good enough she’ll start giving you specific tasks to do while out. She’d leave it to you but not alone, she often lets one or two of her subordinates follow you. This proved to be annoying given their stupid nature to start ‘cooing’ over you, it made it distracting. The tasks seemed simple enough but with your ‘entourage’ it was made slightly difficult, anytime you completed a task they’d hoist you up and give you unending praise…at least thats what Guison would do. They made it a point to also set up small campsites to let you rest/nap or eat something. The others either gave you a pat on the head or a nod, when you returned with tasks complete Heket sends you to get cleaned up.

She’d have your dinner ready by the time you returned, always expecting you back before the sun sets.

Discipline:

She is scary when crossed! Her words are far more poisonous than any mushroom in her domain, thankfully she won’t use them on you…at least not in full force. Her words are a warning, but keep pushing her…well the swamps have plenty of sticks laying around to use. Her loyal followers are given full permission to spank you if you get out of line with them but they are to report to her any time it happens.

She had a past incident with one of her lower ranks trying to abuse this power around you, from what you heard…they were made into Heket’s latest banquet.

(Not really, Zepar later told you that Heket just whipped the heck out of them, still scary but hey better than being eaten turned into someone’s dinner)

Though she’s may seem harsh she does take your care seriously, when she feels you’ve learned your lesson she’ll hold you and explain why you received your punishment. Don’t think she punishes you based on someone’s word, she’ll listen to your side of the story before making any kind of decisions. This goes double for whoever is watching you, her disciples will always hear you out and make sure you’re not being falsely accused.

Bedtime:

She keeps it simple, after you had dinner she gave you a bath and let you have some time to yourself before tucking you into bed. She made this one herself, a bassinet carved from the very mahogany trees that grew in her domain. Etched into the wood was runes of protection, the bassinet sat under a large sheer canopy that kept bugs away but at the same time allowed her [or the other bishops] to see you at all times.

She’d sit with you until you fell asleep, you wondered why she did that….but that thought would fade when Anura began to sing. The sound of crickets, croaking frogs…and distant birds…slowly lulling you to sleep, aided by her hand gently rubbing your back.

Chapter Text

Anchordeep is one of the most beautiful of the lands, jellyfish swim like ethereal dancers, the glow of the crystals that grow along the stones. Those born in the blessed waters of these lands grow to be the healthiest, so is the will of Kallamar. He took great pride in the health and wellbeing of all his flock, the children especially. Yes he’s aware many [younger] children are not fond of him due to his association with medicine that ‘tastes bad’ but they don’t hate him. They understand he cares for their wellbeing, as they grow older they grow more accepting of his treatments.

He loves to gather the children of his flock and show them many treatments. Teaching them first aid, how to handle cuts, an for those brave enough he even goes so far as to show them how to disinfect wounds and sew them up. He even makes them little first aid packs after they complete his lessons.

Kallamar likes his flock to be prepared.

Kallamar’s thoughts ‘The Thief’ [aka you]:

To anyone outside his family and disciples, one would think he wasn’t interested. On the contrary, he and Shamura have worked together to keep tabs on you. From the first rumor about you Kallamar has kept his ears open on any bit of information about you, even more so when you started causing trouble. Though he’s unsure of your motives outside of the normal ‘thief’ he is certainly not a fan of all the problems you’re making for his siblings. An when he heard about his brother-in-law [Myre] getting attacked cause of your antics…well lets say all bets are off.

Anyone who hurts his family is on his ‘list’.

Kallamar catches you:

You hated going through Anchordeep, despite that you had no choice but to trudge through it. The one thing you disliked about this place…it was cold; cold, dark…and eerie. The creatures were not better, save for the jellyfish of course, but you didn’t have time to admire them. You had to keep moving, if you stopped there was a great risk of being found. Worst yet being discovered by Anchordeep’s wildlife, many of its creatures could either eat you in one bite or have venomous spines. Though in your mind those were the least of your worries, right now you had to avoid something far more dangerous…Kallamar and his disciples. Rumors of their form of ‘punishments’ to anyone who crosses their path were enough to keep you on edge. One rumor being about the ‘experiments’ they performed on prisoners and heretics. You were not gonna be one of those!

Well luck was…not on your side, while trying to find clear path you almost stumbled right into a campsite, normally not a bad thing…accept this campsite had four intimidating occupants. Saleos, Haborym, Baalzebub and lastly…the witness Astraoth, the highest ranks of Kallamar’s followers. You backed away slowly, when far enough you were about to run but as stated before, luck was not on your side. Your arm made contact with something sharp, turning…you found a large spike sticking out of your arm. You had just been stung by a ‘Hells Urchin’. Besides menticide mushrooms, Hells Urchins were toxic and caused hallucinations but their spines left painful wounds that easily become infected and worse, cause ones body to become paralyzed for almost a day. If that wasn’t bad enough…the effects only took a few minutes.

It wasn’t long before you were flat on your face, body more ridged than the rocks around you. Your vision begins to distort and swirl…so lost in the illusion you don’t notice the figures around you but you could hear them. Shouting mostly, soon you felt weightless then back down again…only on something softer…ugh the colors were making you dizzy…you closed your eyes for a moment but when you opened them…Kallamar was staring down at you…w-was it though? No it couldn’t be, the toxins…

You felt something on your face…something…slightly rough but smooth at the same time. It brushed your forehead and cupped your cheek, you heard more muffled voices…then something cold rubbed against your thigh..an then came a sharp pain. You yelped and began crying, but as soon as the pain came it disappeared. Something sweet touched your tongue, taking you by surprise…by instinct you began to suckle on whatever it was….then blinking..your vision grew distant…you closed your eyes for just a moment, but when you opened them again…

….The bishop Kallamar and all his disciples were staring down at you…

Kallamar’s thoughts after your capture:

A new crown?! To say he was in shock was an understatement, but now wasn’t the time! You were tucked into Baalzebud’s arms, a Urchin spine sticking out of your arm. There was no time to loose, with skills developed over decades his disciples got to work. Saleos worked on removing the spine and disinfecting your wound, Haborym got out his tool kit and began assembling the syringe, while they worked Kallamar, Baalzebub and Astaroth began mixing up the medicine. Kallamar was thankful there was plenty of crystals around, the minerals in them made for a great detoxing solution.

Once crushed into a powder it was mixed with different solutions and crushed plants, next cooked over the fire and strained three times…and the medicine was ready. A beautiful opaque solution, enough to fill the syringe they brought with. Now came something equally hated by not just Kallamar but also his disciples, the giving of medicine to children. Saleos cleaned off a spot on your thigh as your arm was too small, Astaroth held it still as Kallamar pushed the needle in. In response you began to cry, everyone winced but thankfully Saleos came prepared. He reached into his satchel and retrieved a bottle and dropper, he filled it and squeezed the contents on your tongue.

Sugar syrup, he kept some as a reward to children who took their medicine and for infants to distract them during examinations. Now that was done…everyone could take their time and examine you, Harborym was first to get you into a diaper and warm clothes while Baalzebub took note of your vitals. When everything looked alright, Kallamar gave the order to pack up and return home.

He carried you personally, he wanted to keep a close eye on your vitals.

Kallamar’s training:

He’s a very hands on type of teacher, not just him but his disciples as well. All of them including Kallamar escorted you around, either holding you in their arms, sometimes just your hand, regardless you were always surrounded by them. It’d be annoying…if they each didn’t serve a purpose, Kallamar always lead the group in the day’s itinerary meaning he’d let one of his disciples give the lesson. An each disciple was a specialist in some kind of field. Saleos was an expert in first aid and child pediatrics, Haborym cared for the older members of Kallamar’s cult, Baalzebub specialized in surgeries, Astaroth mastered medicines and any kind of sickness that was psychological rather then physical. Then there was Kallamar, he knew everything there was about diseases, injuries and plagues and how to treat/cure them.

He took great care in making sure you knew how to tend to not just your wounds but those of others, he didn’t shy away from showing you first hand either. If someone came in with a gash or broken limb you bet he’d have you right there watching one of the disciples clean and sew it up. Of course he’d understand if it’d become too much for you, he’d take you to another room and let you compose yourself….

Or throw up, whichever came first.

Discipline:

Kallamar always expects you to give respect to not just himself, but his disciples and patients alike. Just because you have a crown doesn’t mean you can disrespect, in his words ‘respect given is respect earned’. Of course give too much sass and your gonna find yourself over his lap with his preferred tool of choice, a paddle.

He keeps it nearby in case you cause any kind of trouble, he’s not the only one to use it either. The other disciples are given full permission to spank you if you step out of line. But rest assured he’s not the hotheaded type, he has a lot of patience and so does his disciples. Any time they have to punish you they give you time to cry it out before an explanation on why you were punished.

Bedtime:

Oh he takes great pride in this routine! He’d already have a bath drawn for you filled to the brim with bubbles. One your clean he has a nice little nightgown ready for you and a few books lined up to read. Your bassinet was unique to say the least, it was round and looked like a jellyfish with its tendrils pointed up. One tendril sat just over top this unique bassinet, once tucked in Kallamar would hang a mobile there made of crystals…shaped like different sea creatures. He’d then point a candle towards it…

The light from the candle bounced off the crystals and painted your nursery in beautiful hues of teal and cerulean. The colors would slowly dance around the room as he’d sit by you and read…slowly your eyes would close…and you began to drift off into your own sea of dreams.

Chapter Text

Silkcradle is the most mysterious out of all the lands, many secrets lay deep in its caverns. Secrets that are well guarded by the wise and noble Shamura. To be born in Silkcradle is considered a great honor, those honored ones are blessed by the bishop of not just war but wisdom as well. Shamura takes education of all kinds seriously, they take great steps to ensure each and everyone has a proper education. Oh how they adore each day, gathering the children around and sharing with them new bits of information. Demonstrations that make their eyes sparkle, poems, sonnets and meditations that make them ponder about the greater things in life. But more importantly, how to defend oneself. Shamura took great pride in educating children on self defense and on battle.

Given the creatures in Silkcradle, learning to fight was essential, though they did make sure infants and toddlers were kept extra safe just in case they wandered off. Shamura made sure the lessons were not just one thing, to teach only one subject would only lead to a one tract mind. In their experience it was best to learn as much as one could, they wanted the children that came to them for education to grow up cultured and well rounded. Shamura always had a soft spot for children, especially the very young ones.

Shamura’s thoughts ‘The Thief’ [aka you]:

They knew about you before you became a thief, having heard of the traveling circus and once watching a performance. They were quite impressed with your skills, so much so they decided to keep a note of you in case you should ever arrive in Silkcradle. To hear you became a thief was such a shame…

That is until the vision.

Under a large tent they stood, crowds cheering for a beautiful performer at the center…their light glowing brighter as the cheers grew in volume. More performers joined their glow was brighter than the one in the center…but one by one each of these performers were consumed by a rising flame. Each one snuffed out and turned to a charred statue…a gust of wind turning them into dust. Last stood the lone figure…the last performer. While yes the flames were burning their body they continued to perform, using the flame to burn everything around them.

Everything burning and turning to black….soon the figure stood….center again the flames now fully consuming them….before burning out. The figure standing charred and frozen…the wind blowing it away…but unlike the others….there was still a glow. A warm gentle glow in the center of the once beautiful performer. It stood at the chest…taking shape into a star…set in the center of a crown….the ashes of the performer now takes on a new shape.

The ashes swirl and reform, now standing was a tiny child. The crown placed on their head…pleading eyes looking up, glittered with tears. They cry an reach out…more then one hand reaches back, pulling them close. Their glow growing ever brighter…chasing all darkness away.

A bishop of hope and light is born.

Shamura had this vision right after the circus burned down, the correlation with you didn’t come till the fall of Minos. The harsh light of the truth shining down thanks to you, however your thirst for vengeance caused some problems as well…despite disbanding there were still those who followed Minos despite the truth.

Shamura had to act fast, they couldn’t let you fall into their hands.

Shamura catches you:

This place was creepier then you remembered, bundles of spider webs everywhere, scattered remains of bones and worst yet…roaming groups of scorpions, spiders and other poisonous creatures! This place was inhospitable to anyone who dared traverse these caverns alone, sadly you were one of them. This place scared you in so many ways…but what got you the most was how quiet it was. You feared every step you took, any sound you made could alert the creatures around you.

However what scared you more than any of the creatures in Silkcradle…was the very idea you were in the home of Shamura, the bishop of war. To meet them would be your doom, not to mention embarrassing given your lack of clothing…ugh you wanted to slap yourself right now. Worrying about being seen naked by someone should be the least of your concerns! Right now you had to focus on getting out of here and avoiding Shamura’s disciples. You adjusted the crown on your head and moved forward…maybe you’d find a campsite and get some help. Oh what good would that do, everyone knows what you are…a thief, one that caused a church to collapse. Like anyone is gonna help you now…

“Ah, there you are little crown~”

Your body froze, a shadow hung over you…not anyones….but the very person you wanted to avoid…Shamura. You spun around and fell back, they smiled down at you…almost wickedly. You scrambled back, eyes wide. They leaned down to examine you before standing back to full height. You didn’t know if it was the adrenaline or fear…but you shot off into the caves…Shamura’s voice echoing through the cavern walls.

“Do not worry little crown, my followers will find you soon enough.”

Oh you did not like the sound of that, nor what came next. Each room you entered…you encountered the last thing you wanted, Shamura’s most highly skilled followers. The first one was Focalor, they sealed off the room with runes..you either had to beat them one on one or try to figure out to reverse the runes….so you chose the runes. It took you a few minutes while evading capture but you got out…the next room almost killed you..figuratively. Same problem only made harder with two disciples…Vephar and Hauras, working in tandem to try and capture you.

But a handful of sand in their faces bought you enough time to escape…the next room however…was the worst…Shamura was there…along with their trusted witness Allocer. Shamura was smiling while Allocer simply had their arms folded.

“I am so proud to see you come so far and so quickly little crown!” Clapped Shamura. “But night is fast approaching and I rather see you come back with us without more problems. Allocer..if you please~” It was only a blink, thats all it took for the witness to have you in their grasp.

You reacted as anyone would, kicking, biting, hell you tried to claw at their hand but all was in vain…they held you up before Shamura…you flinched as their clawed fingers came close to your body. You closed your eyes and waited for whatever was to come…so far nothing…when you opened your eyes..you were bundled up in silk. Their smile never fading as they cradled you…their followers gathering around.

Shamura’s thoughts after your capture:

They were impressed, not anyone could get passed their followers so easily, especially Focalor. It took so many times for just some of the older children to touch the first rune before being caught by them. Well either way they did it, they had you captured…

Oh you looked so precious, a little star wrapped up in silk. Oh Shamura just wanted to pinch your little cheeks but held back, they had work to do. First things first…gather the family and introduce their newest member of their family!

Shamura’s training:

They’re not called ‘wise’ for nothing, Shamura was always teaching you something new whether it was about a random painting you’d pass or even how to take down an target without the use of a weapon or curse. They loved showing you everything an everything their domain had to offer, they weren’t the only ones, their disciples took great care in your education as well. Focalor taught you how to refine metals and forage new things with them.

Vephar is an has always been about hand to hand combat so always made sure to show you proper techniques, he also loved books and if you were physically tired he’d break out a book and read it aloud to you, stopping to ask you questions or answer them. Hauras was skilled in tracking, they’d make fake tracks for you to follow and rewarded you if you did things right an lastly there was Allocer, a strategist extraordinaire. Using board games like chess or similar games, they showed you how to plan moves an take down large groups of individuals with just a small group. All took care of your education in all regards.

This meant you were never without an escort, they wouldn’t baby you..per-say. However if they were taking you through the caves of Silkcradle then there was no argument you’d be in someone’s arms. Despite the fact that Shamura made it clear to any creature that if they harmed a child there’d be consequences they never took risks with you, his disciples more so. But that didn’t mean they didn’t let you try, if they feel you needed to blow off steam or you needed practice then they’d let you fight off a smaller creature but anything bigger then you they’d handle.

Discipline:

Despite being a very patient soul they are not without limits, they have a strict set of rules to keep you protected despite what you may think. Should you break or even bend them you’ll find yourself in big trouble. No one is above these rules, despite that they’d understand if you broke them for something very important such as keeping someone safe or out of danger then they’d let you off with a good scolding. However if it’s for any other reason…well don’t expect any sympathy.

They keep a switch tucked under his cloak at all times just in case, not just him but his other disciples too. With you he gave permission to spank you if you break any of the rules they set, but don’t think his disciples abuse this no way. They won’t even suggest it, they only use it when the need arises. They make sure you learn this lesson once though…so be sure you never repeat that mistake again.

After such a spanking though..they let you cry as much as you want, cradling you, rubbing your back to make sure your ok, they almost plead with you never to break these rules again for your own sake.

Bedtime:

Shamura always has a fixed bedtime routine for you, no you can’t stay up late for a few more minutes. When it’s time to sleep, you sleep. But they’d understand if you’re having trouble falling asleep.

Your bed was unique, more unique than the ones made for you. While you slept in handmade bassinets…you were laying in the middle of a suspended hammock made of silk. Bundled up to keep out the chill and tucked in nice and snug, if you didn’t know any better you felt like you were a bug caught in their web awaiting to be eaten. You tried asking once….but then they pulled out the one thing that sent you to sleep almost instantly. They pulled from a small box a harp, by your side they’d sit and play…while whispering a meditation of some-kind.

You tried to resist but…staring up at your nursery ceiling…with dripping strands of dew covered spider webs…like stars suspended in a black void, aided by the sound of the harp and soft whispers…you couldn’t help but be lulled into a deep, restful sleep.

Chapter Text

All of his siblings have a domain to rule over but Narinder…his home lays in the crossroads, the ruins of an old battlefield. Whats the scars of the past now turned into a place of rest and reflection, his following were made of people who performed an invaluable service to all realms. They were graveyard keepers, priests who gave last rites, banshees, mourners, crypt keepers, his village trained those to help the living grieve their lost loved ones. They prepared funerals and ceremonies, helped the grieving individuals mourn the dead properly and thoroughly.

The children from an early age are taught that death is apart of the cycle of life, without death life would not be as beautiful as is. Narinder always explained this fact in a very poetic/gentle way to children. Telling them how life and death are like the seasons or like the sun and moon. How each life is precious and lives out its time no matter how long or short it is. He also teaches children that tears are to never be held back, to cry is not just to cleanse your soul but to disperse your sorrow and begin to heal and move on in life.

Besides lessons such as these; Narinder and his beloved spouse/vessel Lambert also taught children how to prepare funeral arrangements such as preparing funeral clothes [for living and deceased], arranging flowers, lighting of candles, learning songs to sing for the deceased an their loved ones and so on. Lambert often took the reins with the children at times but Narinder always made a point to come talk to the children if they had any questions on death.

Narinder’s thoughts ‘The Thief’ [aka you]:

Nothing at first but given he is the bishop of death he heard of what happened to your troupe first hand, also learned how collected the ashes and did your best to give them a proper burial. Given what you went through he didn’t give it much thought, besides Lambert went to be sure prayers were given and the souls were collected. Before sending the souls to the land beyond…they pleaded with Narinder to protect you, how much they loved you and wish for your safety….the ringleader begged to Narinder to find you and keep you from going down a dark path.

Narinder gave his word to look for you but what you do with yourself was your choice and yours alone as he stated to the souls before sending them to the land beyond. He was about to send Lambert to find you…when Shamura had come to call, speaking of a vision…involving you of all things. When the vision was explained to them…

Narinder waisted no time calling his spouse and closest confidants.

Narinder catches you:

You were lost, plain and simple. After escaping the realms of Leshy, Heket, Kallamar and Shamura you found yourself wandering outside their domains. You felt like you were wandering for days…and honestly you kinda were. The crown as keeping you going with what little power it had but your body was gonna need a place to not only rest but you needed food…but you had a much bigger problem. Even after escaping four bishops you had one last bishop to worry about.

‘The one who waits’

No one knows his real name or what he looks like save for the fact that he had a red crown, no one outside his own cult. They were as mysterious as the bishop himself, they’d appear when someone died and disappear whenever a funeral ends. You…often wondered if you stayed after burying what was left of your beloved troupe would you have the chance to see these mysterious figures? It didn’t matter…you buried the ashes of the tent and what was left of your old family…they’re gone…dead…thats all. You pause to just stand…but just for a moment before continuing to move. If you stopped now someone might catch you a for goodness sake you didn’t want that. So…you pressed on and did your best to push the thoughts of your troupe down to the back of your mind…

Soon you came to a forest far from Darkwood, it didn’t seem too bad…if you were lucky you probably could find stuff to make a temporary shelter-

“Well, what have we here?”

You spun around..just a few feet from you…stood a lamb, smiling a wide..sickly sweet smile. With a red crown staring down at you…your breath is stuck in your throat as the lamb takes a step towards you. In response you scramble backwards, your eyes wide…t-this…this is the-

“So you’re the one causing all these problems for my family, well we can’t have that. Now normally I’d just take you back home now but…I’m bored and in need of some…entertainment….you have ten seconds.”

You didn’t hesitate, you bolted into the woods. The lamb counting down from ten with a maddening pause between each number, your heart was beating in your ears, your breath was faster then your own legs. H-how could this happen?! The one you were avoiding found you! Oh who were you kidding, death found all! You darted through brambles, feeling the branches and thorns scrap your bare skin. Your crown illuminating what little of a path you hand, your ran for what felt like hours before stumbling into…a hidden clearing. You shiver an look around..spying a lonely looking shack, lights glowing inside..without a second thought you approached.

But…what were you gonna do, you were naked save for a crown on your head, stuck in toddler body with scratches all over yourself- the door of the shack opened…a old rat with a folded paper crown stepped out with a lantern, using a large stick to push open the door.

“Someone there?” The rat turned…the light of his lantern falling on you, his one eye looking you up and down. “Well..wasn’t expecting another crown showing up.”

You blinked at him, you flinch when he sat the lantern down and reached to remove the red shawl from around his neck. Before you could comprehend what was happening, he wrapped it around your shoulders and proceeded to guid you into the little shack. “C’mon now, out of the cold. Let’s get you into some clothes and you can maybe tell me who the heck you are hm?”

You…don’t argue or resist, you just follow. Inside it was warm, simple and quaint. You took note of a table..oh a knuckle bones table! T-The ring master use to play this with other troupe members all the time! You were always too young to play but..it was just fun to see them roll the dice, joke, drink and tell stories-…..stop it. They’re gone…you can’t dwell on the past-

“Alright kiddo, up ya go.”

The rat picked you up, laying you down on mat he set up. He folded a white cloth around your lower half..tying both sides before sitting you back up. W-well at least you weren’t naked but did he really have to put you in a diaper? He wasn’t done though, he reached and pulled out a robe and slipped it over your head. Your hands through the long baggy sleeves and finally tugging the end of the robe down, it was way too big for you..accept for the hood- oh for goodness sake it was a infants robe. The kind parents put babies in just before traveling, for the love of all things- just cause you looked like a toddler didn’t mean-

“There, at least ya got clothes. Now mind telling me what yer doing so far out in the woods lil’crown?” You stare at him for a moment…but say nothing, you jut look away. “Yeah, figured..new bearers of crowns don’t have a lot to say. Oh where are my manners, name’s Ratau. I was a priest who lived not far from here, retired an living the good life till ‘he’ comes fer me.”

So…thats his name, you remain silent but give a polite nod. He keeps talking to you as he walks from one part of the shack to the other gathering little bits and bobs. He hands you some bread…which you accept…you almost couldn’t bring yourself to eat it. Not because it tasted bad, on the contrary it was very delicious…it just…ugh those memories again kept coming back. If you could get this stupid crown to take your memories instead of your age then-

“Ah, looks like my friends here; bout’ time.” Ratau smiled an walked to the door, you blinked…as a tall figure cloaked in white walked in, their face covered in a black veil but from what you could tell…they’re a black cat. “Narinder, good to see you my friend!”

The two talked for a moment before Ratau lead the feline over to you. “Found this lil’tyke right outside my shake, naked like its the rite of lust er somethin’. You know anything about them?” The feline looked you up and down before speaking…their voice was low and rumbled like a growing thunderstorm.

“No, the only thing I’ve been hearing is about ‘The one who waits’ going after that strange thief.” You felt your blood turn to ice hearing that…w-why was-..

Ratau spoke. “Why’s that?” The feline, Narinder at first didn’t answer. Instead more focused on you..gently tilting your head up and examining you before giving an answer. “Something about..’not properly burying the dead’ or something of that nature. Maybe the thief stole from a grave, either way death wants their due.” They talked for a bit more, you turned away. You did what you could to keep yourself from freaking out. You watched as Narinder walked over to the one stove in the shack and rummaged round in a small box before pulling out a kettle before asking. “Ratau, do you have any milk?”

“Yeah, hang on gotta go out to the shed fer it. Watch the kiddo while I’m out please.” You watched Ratau leave as Narinder sat the kettle down. He sat down a satchel he had tied to his back and pulled out something…it looked like a small pastry. “You must be hungry little one, bread can keep some hunger away for a little bit but perhaps something more…filing is needed.”

You stared at his hand….it was a small hand pie, you use to eat these with your troupe on the road. At first you tried to push it away but…like Narinder said, bread could only do so much. You took it and bit into the crust…it was sweet. It had mashed berries inside, w-wow…it tasted amazing! You took another bite staring at the confection….why….was it this little thing that made you start crying? At first you didn’t feel the tears but after the second bite..they started flowing. But you didn’t stop eating, just….everything came at you in full force.

Your troupe is gone, the family you had is dead…no more acrobat training, no more knuckle bone nights, no more singing, dancing and telling of stories…no more nights of cuddling together with your trope under the stars picking out patterns and constellations. You almost dropped your food but Narinder held it for you instead…you must’ve been crying hard cause you didn’t notice that he had sat down and put you in his lap. He encouraged you to finish your food, somehow you managed to. With a stray bit of cloth he dabbed your mouth clean.

“There now little crown, feels better letting all that go hm? You’ve been through a lot recently, I can tell..how about you tell me about it, I promise you’ll feel even better afterwards.” You looked up at him…and before you could stop yourself…the words tumbled out of your mouth, your troupe, the fire, your revenge and lastly about your crown an how you got it. You were so worked up…you didn’t notice the door of the shack opening…a worse…you didn’t see the Lamb walking in. You were so worked up telling Narinder everything…nothing else seemed to matter. The last thing you did was scream out how this was not fair, you never asked for this or anything….you just wanted to-

“Little one settle down now…its ok now…we promise everything will be alright. When we take you home, you’ll find your place among us.” You froze…you turned to see the Lamb w-without the crown?

Only…to look back at Narinder…the crown now perched on his head, his veil gone and three…deep warm red eyes staring down at you..with an even warmer smile.

Narinder’s thoughts after your capture:

Narinder had to hand it to his beloved, the plan was full proof. Not only was your capture smooth but they also managed to get you to finally calm down. It was rather surprising but he was happy the plan not only worked…but got you to start mourning properly. He always hated those who pushed their grief down, one must make time to grieve cause if they didn’t, grief comes at them in a more destructive way.

Still the aftermath was to be expected, you tried running again but given you were in his arms already it made it impossible. Especially when they left the hut an Narinder could take on his full height again, he waited till his vessel bid Ratau both farewell and showed appreciation for their assistance in your capture. You kept struggling in his hand until his vessel came an took you.

Oh this was going to take some time.

Narinder’s training:

While the other bishops took you into their domains to learn the lay of their lands and develop your skills Narinder focused on something equally important. He taught you how to interact with mortals, both as one of them and as a bishop. He and Lambert would show you how to perform rituals for harvests, bountiful fishing, indoctrinated new followers and so on.

Narinder wanted you to understand your place as a bishop but in his mind, one cannot fully become a bishop without learning what it is to be mortal. But you already know what it is to be mortal given your previous life. It was learning to be a bishop that was the real challenge. Thankfully he has help, not just from Lambert but also his two most loyal disciples/generals. Aym and Baal, twins who Narinder helped raise with their mother, a former priestess turned merchant. If Narinder feels your getting overwhelmed he has them take you on a walk through the woods.

As his beloved Lambert would say. ‘To calm the mind one must calm the heart.’

Discipline:

Make no mistake, while Narinder and his flock are patient souls they have no tolerance for any disrespect. He’s very much like Shamura when it comes to this, under his robe he keeps a strip of leather just in case you start acting out. Lambert also has their own method of punishment involving a Shepards crook.

They won’t use them unless necessary, an after which they always plead with you to never repeat the same mistake again. They despise the idea of ever punishing you in such a manner…it hurts them deeply.

Bedtime :

This routine seldom changes, after a bath Narinder takes you to a room with a large window, this is where your bassinet is. It’s a simple one but the whole body of it is covered in pure white lace, while the interior is filled with soft lanolin. But just before bed, Narinder lets Aym and Baal play with you. Often enough its just singing a song while dancing with you, the classic cautionary ‘Hearse song’ as they waltz around the nursery with you.

But when all the singing and dancing is done…Narinder tucks you into the bassinet, facing the window to gaze out at the starry night. As you stare into the glittering sky….you hear him whisper a soft lullaby.   

Chapter Text

Yep, I’ve had a feeling some of you would wanna know what the discpline is like but we’re gonna continue with the Bishop angle, its been really fun to write a alternate story with the bishops and Narinder still being intact and having a new spin on things. Same lineup follows starting with Leshy, then Heket, Kallamar, Shamura, Narinder, Myre and Lambert.

If there’s other stuff you wanna read involving their traits let me know in the comments

Chapter Text

You were in serious trouble now, though you couldn’t really blame yourself for this. That kid was asking for it! Calling you a ‘baby’ like that, you…well ok you were a baby but you were a bishop too! They deserved getting that beat down…but apparently Leshy didn’t think so, so now here you were sitting outside his room while he spoke to one of the other bishops..Shamura about what to do with you. You were sure it was gonna be another lecture, same as before…but something told you this wasn’t going to be the same kind of lecture. You could hear them talking back and forth with each other before things went silent…you leaned on your chair to try and hear what they were saying.

Suddenly the door opened, Shamura stepped out; head held high before shooting you a…chilling disappointed glance your way before leaving. Your little body gave a shiver at the sight…t-they weren’t staying to lecture?

“Get in here little crown, we need to have a talk.” Leshy growled, you shivered…Leshy rarely ever growled at you, even if he did it was always out of playing…you hopped down off your little chair and walked in.

He was sitting on the edge of his chair, legs spread, both arms propped on them his head down for a moment before looking up at you with an annoyed glare. He snapped his fingers, motioning you to come forward. You hesitate but…do as you were told, jumping when the door closed behind you…

“C’mere lil’crown.” Leshy’s voice was a tad softer now but still had that growl in his voice…you approached..noticing another chair nearby. You turned towards to to sit down but instead felt his hand grab your arm and pull you towards him, spooking you a bit. “Yer gettin a lecture later, right now yer gonna tell me what happened back there and don’t you think about lying to me, I’ll know.”

You blinked..and for a moment you couldn’t say anything before telling your side of the story. You didn’t embellish, you didn’t try doctoring it up to make yourself look good you just told him how it happened. His glare stayed, though it softened just a tad..but not by much.

“Alright, that checks out at least…but why the heck did you beat the up for something stupid like that?” You replied that they insulted you, as a bishop you’d be shown respect! He gave a nod, agreeing with that statement but…thats where it ended. “I understand that, but you realize this was a kid no older than you, they don’t know any better. A good scolding would’ve done the trick but no you decided to beat them up.”

Oh…you forgot about the age thing..yeah the kid was your age but..did that-

“You hurt that kid just for calling you a baby, news flash ‘you are a baby’!” Ouch…that hurt hearing him say that…worst is ‘how’ he said it. He really sounded disappointed in you…then you felt him pick you up.

“Normally Shamura would have you go apologize and we’d continue this lecture but they feel its time you learn yer actions have consequences kiddo.”

You gulped wondering what he meant by that, before you could ask he flipped you on to your stomach over one of his legs. Your robe lifted up, your diaper pulled down and you felt the first swat to your rear and it stung. You yelped and started to kick your little legs, but he continued. Each hit felt like you were getting swatted with birch branches! You started crying after the third swat, begging after the sixth but those fell on deaf ears.

He continued on for what seemed like forever in your opinion…but it wasn’t that long in Leshy’s mind. A good minute or so, or at least till he felt you learned your lesson. By the time he was done your rear felt like it got stung by a bunch of wasps, you whimpered when he pulled your diaper back up and fixed your robe. It didn’t help the sting though, in fact it kinda made it feel worse. You kept crying as he sat you down in that chair you spied earlier, plopping you down right there.

“You sit right there, don’t think about moving cause I’ll know. Move a muscle an its back over my knee, ya got that?” You whimper and nod, you watched as he placed his crown down facing you…the single green eye staring right at you.

He marched out of the room closing the door rather hard behind him, making you flinch..in turn making your rear sting. You continue crying, for a moment you thought about nursing your rear but…catching sight of the crown staring right at you made you second guess that choice. Instead you reached and chewed on your hand a little…you didn’t have many teeth but..it felt good to at least do something. You sat there wondering what he was doing….you shivered thinking…what if he was going to get Shamura and repeat this!

You start shaking, now you really were regretting what you did…you started hiccuping badly now. So much so it hurt, you didn’t want anything more then to take back what you did. After a few minutes the hiccups started calming down..you flinched when the door opened…eyes wide thinking the worst…instead it was just Leshy walking in…looking a lot less angry..but still annoyed. You sniffle noticing he was carrying something, a waterskin. He walked over and placed his crown back on his head before turning to you. You turned your eyes to his feet, not ready to meet his gaze..he walks over to you..kneeling down he lifts your chin to meet it…his gaze softer now.

“You done now?” His voice is flat, you weren’t sure what that meant but…you gave a little nod. “..Alright then, up ya go.” He lifts you back up, you felt panic surge through you thinking he was gonna spank you again…but instead he just put you in the crook of his arm…and produced the waterskin.

“It’s just milk, c’mon drink up.” You stare at it and then back at Leshy, he sighs and holds it for you. Not wishing to endure another spanking you start suckling on the waterskin…it really was just milk. He sat down with you on his nest and began to rock you back and forth…after a minute the milk was finished, he put you over his shoulder and patted your back…you gave a very small burp..

Ugh you are a baby…for heavens sake you are one! You felt like crying again, only for this fact alone…seems like Leshy could read your mind cause the next moment he had you laying against his chest…listening to his heart beat…

“Deep breaths, I know it hurts but ya gotta learn that you can’t just start throwing hands every time someone says something ya don’t like. I know you hate it if someone calls you a name but you can’t do that every time, ya gotta learn to take some of those an ignore it. If you keep that up you’ll never be respected, but at the same time I get you don’t want to be disrespected. We can show you how to deal with people like that ok?” You sniffle and nod, he starts rubbing your back. “We don’t hate you for this, none of us do. What you did was foolish but we understand…however next time you pull something like this remember this is the consequence. We want you to grow up a good bishop, one that will lead their cult to greatness.”

You nodded, oh your poor rear still hurt…he seemed to notice so continued rubbing your back. “I know, I know it hurts but believe me I didn’t want to do this but this is what had to be done. Sometimes you need to do things you really don’t wanna do for the good of others. Not to mention I’ve gotten my fair share of in the past..” he muttered under his breath.

You didn’t reply, you heard the door opens then froze hearing Shamura’s voice…barely above just a whisper. “Everything alright in here Leshy?”

“Yeah Shamura, if you wanna lecture them ya can…unless you think this is enough.” You wince as Shamura takes you from Leshy’s arms, not roughly…just…in one smooth motion. “Since this is their first time we’ll stop at this for now…but they’re still going to bed early tonight, they lost their ‘playtime’ privilege for the next couple of nights.”

They were stern in that last bit.

[Later that night]

Well Shamura wasn’t wrong, the moment dinner was finished you were off to bed. Well first was a bath, Leshy was taking responsibility for that tonight. At the moment you were sitting in the wash basin as he pour warm water over your head, you weren’t tired but…you were starting to after today. You kept quiet during the bath, back facing him…not sure if you wanted to say anything. He started scrubbing your hair with the soap, he then out of no where turned you around.

“You gonna stay quiet all night?” You ducked your head down, still upset over the whole incident earlier. So much so you were about ready to cry again…then a warm rag starts rubbing your face. “I don’t blame ya, I was quiet for two nights after my first whoopin and that was with done by Heket. But trust me, we ain’t mad at ya and don’t you think we don’t love you either. Thats something that’ll never happen, you’re one of us now and we’ll always love you.”

He tilts your head up to finish scrubbing, then one final douse before he takes you out and starts drying you off. You sniffle, you just wanted the floor to swallow you whole after what happened. Even more so when Leshy laid you down to put a new diaper on you, he finished up rather quickly.

“Oh c’mon you still hung up about all this? Yeah it sucks but ya learned yer lesson an hey be glad it was me and not Shamura, they’d give you a lecture an make you repeat it if they felt like it.” Leshy continued as they got you into your little nightgown.

You blinked at him as he brought you to your bassinet, he settles you in it and starts tucking the blanket snuggly round your legs. “Probably shouldn’t tell ya this before bed but I’m not the only one who can whoop ya if you make a blunder like this again. Now I’m not saying everyone, just us and a very select few, Myre and Lambert being two of them. Anyone else has to get permission from us or we’ll handle it.”

You blinked wide eyed at him, you turned over about ready to cry again but he turned you back over, cupping your face in both his hands. “Hey, none of that. I’m giving you a heads up so yer not taken by surprise next time. Don’t get upset over this…just take this as a lesson learned ok?”

You stared at him for a moment…looked away and nodded, you expected him to let go of your face but he didn’t. Instead he leaned down and began to nuzzle you, peppering little kisses on your forehead. Before looking you straight in the eyes with a loving smile.

“We love you, an will never stop loving you don’t forget that.” You look at him..really looked at him…no he wasn’t lying. With a little hesitation you reached up..wanting to be held. Half expecting to be rejected but the next second you were lifted into his arms and held against his chest. “There ya go, I don’t got anything to do right now so…I’ll chill out here with ya till yer asleep. Sound good?”

You nod, though it wasn’t gonna take long. You rested your head against his chest, the smell of Darkwood lingered in his mossy fur, his heartbeat like a makeshift lullaby. He gave one last kiss on your head before you finally drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Text

“THEY DID WHAT?!?!”

Heket’s roar knocked you off your feet, granted the door was closed but man her voice carried weight! Oh man, all this cause you poured salt into the stew as a joke..granted you didn’t think the stew was for Heket but even so…was it that bad? You were standing right outside her room as one of her followers retold your little stunt to her. Needless to say…you were in some serious hot water at this point. One thing you forgot…never mess with Heket’s food..an stupidly you did just that! You messed with her food! The door flung open and the follower ran out screaming as a pot whizzed by their head….you completely forgot about her temper. You thought about running till you heard her roar out.

“GET YOUR BUTT IN HERE LIL CROWN!”

You jumped near out of your skin..with very tentative steps you peeked into Heket’s room, she was sitting on her bed, one leg bouncing while she fiddled with something in one hand. The glare she shot you could freeze hell over in a second. You really felt like running now…but you knew if you did..she’d just chasing after you and that’d make things worse. You walk up to her, those gold eyes glaring down at you like cauldrons of molten liquid.

“I was told..’you’ were responsible for that little stunt involving my stew. This true?” Her glare intensified, well you..couldn’t lie to her now so…you nodded. “Care to tell me ‘why’ you thought pouring an entire container of salt into my stew was such a good idea?”

In a small voice you said something about it being funny…that apparently was the wrong thing to say when she grabbed you by the scruff and brought you to eye level. “You know how rude it is to ruin someone’s food like that? Do you know how long it took my followers to cook that food?!”

“Heket!”

You both turned…oh thank goodness, Shamura was here! They were fast in taking you from Heket’s grasp. “What the hell Shamura?!”

“Heket, control your temper!” She seemed ready to argue right back but…seemed to relent at the last second. “…My room, get out.”

Shamura nodded and took you out, closing the door behind them. But your relief only lasted a second before they brought you to eye level with them. “Don’t think you’re out of the woods little crown, I intend to let Heket decide your punishment but only after she’s calm. While she does you’re getting a lecture, come with me.”

[Two hours later]

Leshy wasn’t wrong about the lectures, not only was it long but you had to repeat what Shamura said when they were almost done. Your head hurt but at least that part was over…currently they were filing something away when a knock came at their chamber door. For a moment you thought it was Kallamar…oh you wished it was…your blood ran cold when you saw Heket walk in. She looked a lot calmer but that glare in her eye didn’t leave.

“Are you alright now dear sister?”

Heket sighs. “Yeah Shamura I’m fine…I’m here for little crown, I’ve got their punishment lined up and I’d rather get it done now while the suns up.” Her glare fell right on you, a snap of her fingers nearly made you jump out of your skin. “On your feet, let’s go.”

It wasn’t a suggestion, you obeyed…you glanced at Shamura but they only motioned you to follow her. Which…you did, your eyes pointed to the floor. You watched Heket pivot and start down the hall, you almost had to run to keep up with her, she entered the kitchen…you hesitated but followed her inside. Oddly the whole place was empty, not a single one of her followers was there. It was getting rather close to noon, they’d be scurrying about getting things ready both for lunch and dinner. You watched as she grabbed a wooden spoon off the wall and walked over to a stool and sat down.

“C’mere, let’s get this over with.” You backed up a bit but already she had you by your arm and over her knee, despite having the padding of your robe and diaper…that spoon cut right through them.

You yelped as each swat made contact, it was only a short bit but it felt longer to you. Finally it ended but man that sting, you were about ready to cry but it was over…at least this part was. She sat you down, put the spoon back on the wall before grabbing something else. An apron, she walked right back over to you and started tying it around your waist.

“Thats all done now we can get to the rest of your punishment, yer gonna help me make tonight’s dinner from start to finish. No breaks, no complaining, your gonna do every job I give you. If you so much as whine I’m getting that spoon down and let’s just say what I just did was ‘mercy’ compared what I could do. Got that?” She growled that last part, you gulped an nodded.

This shouldn’t be too bad…right?

[Four hours later.]

You were wrong, it wasn’t bad….it was far worse. Heket wasn’t messing around when she said you’d be doing a lot of work, from washing and peeling vegetables she had you kneading dough, stirring that large cauldron, grating/grinding ingredients and lastly washing every signal dish that was used to cook with. All the while she barked orders at you, from how you washed the potatoes to how you stirred the cauldron. She didn’t let up at all, the moment you were done with one task she had you on another. Oh your arms were sore and your hands ached, you were ready to just fall over. Currently you were drying one last spoon, your little hands shaking and your stomach was starting to sound like an angry dog…only thing is…you really didn’t want anything to do with food right now.

“Alright, foods cooked, you finished with those dishes yet?” You turned to Heket, you weren’t in any mood to sass or mouth off. You said you had just a few more dishes to do, you yelped as she grabbed you by your scruff. “Finish that after dinner, pretty sure Kallamar can hear that belly of yours from all the way in Achordeep.”

You blushed, geez was your stomach that loud? Well either way she pulled you over to the sink and started cleaning you up. You caught a sight of yourself in one of the hanging pots…you were a mess, flour all over your robe, stains up and down your apron and on your sleeves, and lets not forget the smudges of grime on your face from digging potatoes out of their sacks. You looked away…you looked like a complete wreck, you could only imagine the comments you were gonna get from Leshy. He’d have such a field day with this…you were never gonna hear the end of it.

“Yer clean enough.” Heket croaked as she lifted you into one arm, the main dining hall was already set and the food laid out. Shamura appeared first followed by Narinder, Lambert, Kallamar, Leshy and Myre…Heket had you sitting in her lap.

“Quite the spread tonight, yer cooks went all out this time Heky!” Chuckled Leshy. You heard Kallamar clap his tentacles together. “Yes dear sister, what a lovely spread!”

That…kinda hurt now…you helped but she was getting all the-…..you didn’t deserve the praise, if they knew the real reason they’d probably think the food was tainted or something-

Leshy chortled. “So lil’crown, I heard you got into some trouble today, wanna share what happened?” You winced, your head ducked down trying to sink into your dirty robe.

“Leshy. What did we say about discussing punishments at the dinner table?” Narinder spoke, his voice firm yet held a gentle weight. You heard Leshy growl then looked up to see Myre shove a piece of bread in his mouth. The rest of the dinner went rather…well it was normal, other than Heket feeding you till your stomach was slightly bulging. No one seemed to comment on it, Shamura spoke to Kallamar, Narinder to Lambert and Leshy per usual was scarfing down everything while Myre tried to get him to slow down.

After dinner came dishwashing…which you did, every last dish was washed and put away. That took up all your free time..not that you were gonna get any. Heket was now giving you a bath, scrubbing you down head to toe…more then once you almost fell asleep. Out of nothing but pure exhaustion…but she kept you awake, mostly so you didn’t fall over and hit your head on the basin. In fact you were nodding off again while she was scrubbing your back when she started talking to you.

“You did pretty good in the kitchen, I’ll give you that.” You blinked..and looked up at her. “Yeah, you did pretty good there but remember…all that work you did, thats what my followers do every single day. Not just for me but for all of us including my cult, so any time you think about ruining someone’s hard work for a joke…just remember what you did today and doing that from morning till night…it all going to complete waste.”

You turned your eyes down, she was right….soon the bath was done and you were dressed for bed. Ugh, you weren’t complaining. Everything was so sore, you didn’t even argue when she started tucking you into- wait…this…this was the bassinet she kept in her room. You didn’t notice she brought you back to her room instead of your nursery…you looked up at her. She looked back at you..an gave you a half smile.

“I’m feelin’ lazy so yer staying in my room tonight.” You open your mouth to say something but…decided against it…instead you curled up under your blanket..

Listening to Heket as she started humming a simple tune.

Chapter Text

“Little crown come out this instant! Don’t think you can hide after what you said!”

Ooh yeah, Saleos sounded pretty ticked. Not just him but Baalzebub was also after you, during your latest lesson you tried wandering off. Well you were getting bored and you knew how to clean tools already, but when both Saleos and Baalzebub told you to stay…you decided to be snippy and use some…rather not nice language with them. The look they gave you was enough of a sign for you to run, and run you did! You bolted down one hall, both of them shouting for you to return. You ducked into an empty room under a table as they ran by.

You heard Baalzebub this time. “Come out here this instant!

“What in the name of the old faith is going on out here?!” Oh crud…it’s Kallamar! You forgot he was doing inventory in one of the nearby rooms. You heard Saleos again. “Forgive us our lord, little crown has…well their misbehaving again.”

“What have they done now?” You couldn’t hear exactly what was said but there was a good amount of silence…before Kallamar blew his top. “They….said… WHAT?!”

“Yes my lord…they said that to us…” You could hear Kallamar huffing before giving the order. “Find them and bring them directly to my office, let Astaroth and Haborym know as well.”

“Yes lord Kallamar.” You heard them all leave, but still calling for you…ok you needed to think of a plan to evade them till “There you are!” You jumped clear out of your skin when Saleos appeared, dragging you out from your hiding place.

“Kallamar wants to see you right now.”

Before you could even protest he was dragging you out by your ear, you whined and demanded he let go but he ignored you. It wasn’t long before you were brought into another room…finally Saleos let go of your ear, you were about to say something but froze…you were in Kallamar’s office and he was sitting there….staring down at you with a rather cold glare. Saleos gave a bow before leaving the room, you jumped when the door somewhat slammed.

“I suppose you’re aware of why you’re here, to be honest I’m quite surprised that you would use such vulgar language around your teachers. Now since this was your first offense..it will be somewhat lenient however…I hope you’ll be more careful on your conduct in future.” You watched Kallamar get a few things out before motioning you towards him. You hesitated…but inched your way towards him, your previous misgivings with Leshy and Heket made you extremely wary of what was to come. You felt your heart sink just a bit when he picked you up but…that changed when he sat you down on a chair. He reached over and plucked something from his desk but kept it hidden in his hand.

“Alright, open your mouth.” You did as ordered…only to feel a sharp sting envelop your mouth, you look down to see something yellow peeking out between your lips. “I made sure to find a good sour lemon for this, you better keep it in your mouth. If you spit it out you’ll find yourself having a little meeting with the ‘paddle’ instead.”

You winced at the thought, but how on earth could a lemon be this sour?! You’ve had lemons before but never this intense! It felt like your whole mouth would cave in on itself, your toes curled, you clenched your fists. Oh you really wanted to spit out this vial fruit, worst yet it was making you salivate making the taste spread all over! It felt like an eternity before the bitter fruit was pulled from your mouth. Your poor mouth still stung and was producing so much drool, ugh not only did it feel gross but you probably looked just as gross too. You felt a cloth go over your mouth, wiping away the remaining drool.

“Now that we’ve cleaned that mouth of yours time to move on to the next bit.” Kallamar was grabbing something from his desk, you shrink in your chair. “Calm down, you’re just going to be writing some things down, along with some apology letters.”

..Oh..well that doesn’t sound too bad.

[A few hours later]

You never wanted to write ever again! Having to write almost fifty lines of ‘I won’t use vulgar language’ and if that wasn’t enough you had to write a full page apology to Saleos and Baalzebub for mouthing off at them. Kallamar wasn’t letting up on that either, he’d check your apology letters and nitpicked every single sentence you wrote. You were getting more and more upset as time went on, you were on your seventh draft of your apology letters.

“Come now little one, we need to finish these letters up before dinner. Wouldn’t want to waste any of their time.” Kallamar was hovering over you, currently writing your apology to Saleos again…your mind on its last thread. If these letters were torn up you were going to scream and run out of that room…or bash something whatever came first. Finally you finished the letters…handing them to him, your poor little hands shaking.

“Hmm…it’ll have to do given the time, stand up, we’re hand delivering it to them.”

Well..you didn’t have to re-write them again thankfully..an you found both Saleos and Baalzebub rather quick too. They were working on a few patients, Saleos was getting some bandages while Baalzebub was handling the wound. You couldn’t tell what kind of wound it was though, you were about to approach but Kallamar pulled you back.

“Baalzebub, Saleos, little crown here has something to give you but I can see your busy at the moment.” Baalzebub looked up, your eyes widened seeing the mask he had on splattered with blood…and even more dripping from their patient. “We’re just finishing up this stitching, one moment my lord.”

“Take your time.”

You backed up, oh gosh…you weren’t sure what to say…t-the blood…your legs started shaking. You saw so much blood before…this was-

“Lord Kallamar, little crown is looking pale…”

You weren’t sure who was talking but before you knew it, Kallamar lifted you into his arms, face buried into his shoulder. “We’ll…come back when you’re done with your patient, come little one.” In no time you were out of that room, body shaking.

“Dear me, I forgot your not use to seeing that, their fine little one it’s ok.” Outside he was patting your back, rocking you back and forth. You weren’t sure why but it started to calm you down, but you continued to shake and whimper. “Shhh, it’s all apart of what we do. It’s not pleasant but someone must do it…and for good reason.”

He nuzzles your head, still the sight of the blood still had you shaking. You didn’t notice the two figures approaching. You flinched hearing someone speak but calmed down…it was Saleos. “Sorry Lord Kallamar, we would’ve had the curtain up but they’re being cleaned as we speak. Is little crown alright?”

“They’ll be fine, their not use to the sight of so much blood. With time that will change..now I’d normally have them give you and Baalzebub here a full apology including the letters but given their state its best to hand you the letters-“

You made a sound, oh geez…you felt something in your stomach turn. You were desperate to hold it back, you whimpered out that your stomach didn’t feel right. Kallamar turned you around, facing the  Baalzebub and Saleos. Next thing you knew you were looking into an empty bucket…at least it was currently empty but just a few seconds later…your stomach emptied into it. Kallamar was rubbing your back, you could make out Saleos saying something but that was drowned out by you coughing..thankfully your stomach was finished emptying itself.

“I was afraid that would happen, don’t worry you’ll outgrow it with time.” Sighed Kallamar, his tentacle rubbing your back. The bucket was taken away from you, Baalzebub sat the item aside and looked you over. “They’re still a bit pale…best to ask Lady Heket to make porridge for them.”

“Saleos is taking care of that among other things….Baalzebub go to my office and get me little crown’s blanket please.” They gave a nod and hurried off, for a moment your mind was blank but then…for some reason you began to sob. This was just too much, the writing, the sight of all that blood…everything was just too much! Kallamar brought you to their chest and began to rock you back and forth.

“Shh…Its alright we’ve all gone through something like this one point, I promise it’ll be easier…this may not be the best example but remember how you re-wrote your apology letters? You got better after each correction, little by little. In due time your body, mind and soul will grow stronger to not just withstand the sight but even touch it without being affected. I went through this myself and now I can look at such sights and not bat an eye, all in the name of health.”

“Our lord is right little crown.” You turned to see Baalzebub, in his hand was your opaque colored blanket. Kallamar took it and with a skill developed over centuries had you bundled up. “It took me a while before getting use to the sound of resetting bones and such, the sound would make me freeze up. But after some time I got use to it, it wasn’t easy and I still don’t like the sound but it doesn’t bother me.” You turned away, after everything that happened today…you just wanted to curl up and…well something.

“We’ll..speak another time, Baalzebub continue your work please oh and here take this.” Kallamar handed the letters to him, with a bow Baalzebub returned to his work, you remained in Kallamar’s lap for a little bit longer before being sat down on the floor. “Feeling better?”

You nod, he takes a moment to wipe your mouth again. The blanket still wrapped around you, down the hall you saw Saleos returning. In one hand was a waterskin, you assumed filled with milk.

“Here my lord, I brought some camellia milk.”

You called it, Kallamar thanked him and sent him away…you hesitated but when offered the waterskin you accepted. Unsure if you could drink it..you decided to at least try, you managed to get a few gulps down before stopping..noticing the milk had a different taste to it. You held it out and looked at Saleos.

He knelt down to look at you then at the waterskin. “Guess you can taste the ginger I put in it, you have a sharp tongue…in more the one way.” You looked away before handing the milk back…then against your better judgment you tried to get down. You didn’t want to stay but Kallamar’s hold was strong, keeping you rooted, Saleos continued. “I didn’t mean that as an insult little one, I’m being honest. It’s good to have heightened senses, it’s an invaluable tool not just in battle but in medicine.”

…..You wanted to leave….

But you couldn’t, Saleos continued to talk and Kallamar joined in…you wanted to go to your nursery…but if you blurted it out-….you decided on a different approach.

“Can…I get down now please?” You hoped this would work but…to your displeasure…you were ignored. You tried again, and again were ignored…didn’t Saleos have work to do?! You tried one last time to ask…only to be ignored once more. For some reason, that hurt…them continuing to talk and pretending you weren’t there…without thinking you started struggling to get out of his grasp, managing to slip down just a bit before being pulled back up.

“Whoops! Baby almost fell!” Kallamar chuckled, Saleos joined in…but both stopped hearing you start hiccuping…before going into full blown sobs.. “…Saleos return to your station please…we’ll discuss this matter later.”

Saleos just nodded and left, you were done…just done! First writing lines, then the letters, the constant re-writing, if that wasn’t bad enough you threw up an now you were just ignored…worst was…you knew you had no one to blame but yourself. All you could’ve done was put up with the lecture just for another hour and you could be sitting in your nursery now just playing. No you had to be-

“Little crown, you better not be calling yourself stupid. I’ll flick your ear if you are.”

Well that got your attention, Kallamar continued. “You made a bad choice it doesn’t make you stupid, we all have lapses in judgment from time to time. All we can do is learn and move on, granted perhaps treating you to some of your own medicine right now may have been…a bit much but now you understand how it feels to have your words disregarded despite their importance.”

You blinked before he stopped short of your nursery.

“It’s close to noon that means nap time. After which you can give a proper apology to Saleos and Baalzebub.” You were placed down on the nursery’s changing table, Kallamar had clothes set out for any occasion. Even nap time, this was just a simple blue night gown with a matching bed jacket. In just a few seconds you were dressed and tucked into your bassinet. “There now, all tucked in for some well needed rest.”

After everything…you were looking forwards to this, you watched Kallamar pull the blinds in the nursery half way down. It dimmed the room just enough to sleep by but the light that peeked in landed on a nearby desk, whereas expected Kallamar took up. He would finish some papers while you napped or worked on another sermon. Sure enough when you were comfortable he was already at the desk writing something…crumpling it up and throwing it at a waste basket. You watched him for a moment before…feeling the bassinet start to move almost on its own. Peeking over the edge you saw a tentacle gently pushing the side of it…

As you laid back down…your eyes slowly started to close as Kallamar began to hum a melody…as he crumpled up another piece of paper and tossed it in the basket.

Chapter Text

“Just…how much was ruined…” Shamura’s voice sounded weary, almost exhausted. Of all the things…their newest sibling would do..it’d be this. The newest creation meant for their temple was to be erected today, silk that took weeks to weave all ruined with red camellia dye, taking on a garish pink hue. Focalor sighed, almost mirroring Shamura’s weariness. “I’m afraid it’s all ruined, none of it can be salvaged.”

Shamura let out a long, held in breath. This would not stand, they had to be reigned in. Shamura let out a deep, rare growl. “Where is little crown?”

This sudden change in tone caused a shiver in Focalor, but as quick as the shiver came it disappeared as he composed himself. “In the nursery my leader.”

“Bring them to my chambers.”

With a bow, Focalor departed. When Shamura heard the click of the door closing they proceeded to a wall and scanned it. Taking off a flexible bamboo cane, then after their selection they walked over to their desk and looked over some papers. Already Vephar had done damage control and new silk was already in the works, leave it to her to have a backup ready. The only downside to this was it was going to be three weeks before the new monument would be ready…though this did give a good timeline for Shamura. They’d give the silent treatment for perhaps…for a week…that would probably be long enough.

…However if little crown was showing signs of reflection or anything they’d lighten the punishment, shortening the silence a bit.

It really had been a while since they used this old bamboo cane, not since Leshy was very young. Shamura pondered on how the logistics of the punishment. More over should they be straight forward or let them figure things out for themselves, the nursery was a fair distance away from their chambers so it gave them time to meditate. Narinder and Leshy both had to be told but Kallamar and Heket figured it out on their own..they thought for at least a good minute before coming up with a compromise. They’d wait one week to see, if they don’t understand by that time then they’d leave some hints to help move things along.

Still though..of all the things to do, pouring camellia dye into the silk jars…after the stunt with Heket one would think little crown learned their lesson. Though the prank with Heket was done out of humor, this was done for a different reason; that’s what Shamura believed. But a quick pause made them come to their own explanation…attention seeking. There was no other explanation, given how since they arrived in ‘Silk Cradle’ they’d been almost begging for attention from them. Many times Shamura told them to be patient and wait till their work was done to either play or talk but seemed little crown has not learned patience yet.

That; in Shamura’s opinion was far worse.

A knock came, Focalor had returned with little crown. Shamura took a deep breath, looked in the mirror. In a one blink…their face became unreadable.

————————————

You whined, being dragged by your ear was certainly not pleasant. To make it worse you weren’t given a choice, Focalor just came in, grabbed your ear, stated you were going to Shamura’s chambers and proceeded to drag you out. You complained that you could walk but your words fell short, finally they let go when the two of you came to Shamura’s chamber.

“Inside little crown.” His voice was colder than Silk Cradle’s cavern walls, you hesitated…but he nudged you towards the door. You knocked and heard Shamura’s voice…cold an nothing else.

“Come in.”

You flinched and tried to back up, but with Focalor behind you…they placed a hand on your back and with the other opened the door. A gentle nudge and you were inside Shamura’s chamber, the door closing with an almost inaudible click. Shamura was sitting at their desk, looking at some papers with one hand…their face an icy-neutral. You’d take Heket’s rage face or Kallamar’s disappointed glare over that this. Worst yet was when they looked at you, you’d swear your blood turned into ice with just one glance.

“Come here little crown.”

You were rooted to your spot..well just for a few seconds before taking a few tentative steps towards them. You were in arms length of them before stopping, you opened your mouth but snapped it shut when Shamura turned to face you. Your eyes instantly dropped to the floor, it’s impossible to meet Shamura’s gaze..at least when they’re like this. The only ones you knew that could were their witness Allocer or Narinder.

“Well..you have my attention little crown, are you satisfied?” They leaned in closer, you stepped back a bit. “My followers worked very hard on that monument, some spent nights without sleep working on such a piece. All that work…for nothing, if I wasn’t aware that your actions caused this…I would’ve punished each follower that worked on that monument. Lucky for them the truth came out before such an action was taken.”

You suddenly found your voice and protested to such an act, how could pouring camellia dye into silk vats warrant such a train of thought?! Your voice grew quiet under Shamura’s gaze, they leaned forward more. In a blink one of their hands grabbed your arm.

“Because little crown, they neglected to watch and ensure the protection of the silk. If they’re careless like that with silk, imagine what could happen on the battlefield. However, since we know it’s your doing; punishment is squarely on your shoulders.”  Their voice was low, yet you couldn’t hear any anger in it..however in a blink you were over their lap.

One arm pinning both your hands behind your back, another keeping your head down..then came the first swat, catching you off guard. Despite your robe and diaper you could feel each strike, worst was when your robe was lifted and more was applied to your diaper..worst was when it came off, you got twelve swats then. By the time it was over you were a sobbing mess, but..it was over. You’d sit, cry and it’d be over.

Well…you were…somewhat right, your spanking was over and you were sitting in that stupid wooden chair but…you weren’t ready for what came next.

————————————

[Six days later]

“Think they’ll cut this short?” Asked Vephar, she and Hauras were on the way to the nursery with a basket. It was close to lunch time, per Shamura’s instructions they were to go and be sure little crown ate. Hauras gave a soft sigh. “No, our great Shamura won’t show leniency till they are certain little crown has reflected on their actions.”

“Still, I think the silence is causing more of a distraction the anything. Also, who’s watching them right now?”

“Witness Allocer.” Said Hauras as they peeked into the basket, had to be sure the jars didn’t break. Vephar blinked. “What?! Why on earth is Allocer watching the child?! Now I’m more than convinced our leader is taking this too far!”

“Vephar calm down it’s not what you think. Shamura has noticed some of the younger weevers skulking around the nursery when they’re not around. They placed Allocer there as a deterrent, recall the incident with Webber three months ago?”

“How could I forget, poor baby…I still can’t believe those kids would pull such a stunt. Their almost adults a they decide to pull such an act on a little one. But I see what you mean, but still Focalor would be just affective wouldn’t he?”

Hauras scratched the back of their neck. “Well…it’s somewhat the same reason why Allocer is with the little bishop only…he’s been monitoring their actions and from what I read in the reports. Shamura was right in putting Allocer in the nursery.”

“What the hell were they planning?”

“A stunt to humiliate them in front of everyone..at least in the weaving hall, Focalor has dealt with them personally.” Hauras chuckled. “He didn’t have to do anything really, after taking them to the elder weavers everything was out of his hands.”

Vephar chuckled along, when it came to elder weavers they were as close to Shamura’s state of calm then anyone. Hell after the whole ‘camellia dye’ fiasco happened they just shrugged, said ‘Our leader will handle them’ and went to start a new project. In their mind as long as Shamura was taking care of things they didn’t worry. They came to the nursery, they blinked seeing something smeared in red paint on the door.

‘Fake Bishop sleeps here’

“….I pray whoever wrote this gets their arms ripped off.” Growled Vephar, Hauras touched the door..the paint was still wet, but with no trail…it’d be hard to find whoever did this. But since the paint was still wet, a simple rub with cloth just covered up the awful phrase quite easily.

“So much for ‘deterrent’…want to report this to Shamura or should I?” Asked Hauras. Vephar sighed, pinching the bridge between her eyes. “We’ll report this when we’re done.”

They knocked on the door, after one the door flung open and both were greeted by a rage filled gaze of the witness with a smudge of red paint on their cheek…but disappeared the moment they saw who it was at the door. “Oh, Hauras, Vephar, sorry I thought you were more of those pesky teens again.”

“Caught some writing this offensive garbage on the door huh?” Vephar sneered, motioning to the now ruined message. Allocer nodded. “Yes, chased them down the hall before catching them. Gave them each a firm slap across the face for their blasphemy before sending them off..also sent a report to Shamura about this.” It was clear the witness was exhausted, seen in their eyes but remained stubbornly strong.

“How is the young bishop?” Vephar walked in first, setting the basket down…the nursery had been stripped of any toys they had, but all the books were left alone among other things. “They’re….sleeping right now, ever since that last meeting with Shamura they’ve been recluse.”

Allocer looked at the ground, recalling how when Shamura came to speak to them about some matters. Little crown tried to speak to them, conveying they had gone to some of the weevers to apologize for their misdeeds. Offering to even work on the monument’s creation…only they were ignored, that stone gaze fixed only on the witness and witness alone. If that wasn’t bad enough; Shamura had bid only the witness farewell and left, disregarding the little one like they were a piece of furniture in the room. Allocer couldn’t do much…just offer a pat on the head and have them study. The look though…but this was all apart of the punishment.

“Didn’t go well?” Hauras chimed in, though the question was rhetorical it was the only thing that came to mind. Allocer sighed. “It…went as well as you’d expect.” The two disciples looked at one another before giving a solemn nod, Hauras turned to the basket and began to pull out its contents.

First he pulled out a small box, two jars of preserves and some bread. “We prepared it ourselves just to be safe, nothing fancy mind you.”

Allocer nodded. “I appreciate it, with all these vindictive children it’s been rather hard to move around. Some making snide comments, others pointed jabs, however it seems to be escalating what with the door…”

“I pray Shamura does something soon…” Vephar whispered under her breath, the others nodded before they heard a soft rustling from the other room. “They’re awake now, you may take your leave.” Whispered Allocer.

The two nodded and made their way out…ensuring the message on the door was throughly erased before walking down the hall. Allocer meanwhile moved into the nursery, little crown was just starting to stir from their slumber. They made quick work in changing them, it was easier this way since little crown tended to fuss after a nap.

——————————-

You groaned, feeling someone move you from your crib to the changing table. Yeah, you knew it was Allocer but still..you didn’t want to wake up. You wanted to stay asleep…at least for another hour, your headache wasn’t going away today. For the past few days you’d began getting headaches, usually after a nap it’d go away but today..this one was persistent. It wasn’t painful but it was definitely annoying.

“Time to wake up little crown, come now.”

Allocer’s voice cut through the fog of sleep, you slowly opened your eyes. Their face was neutral, staring at you…what else was new. You remained silent as they lifted you up and carried you into the main play area/study of the nursery. A table had been set with lunch, a small box filled with cooked rice, mashed cauliflower and diced sweet potatoes. Then there was some bread with fruit preserves, you just blinked at that.

Thus began this new routine, sit down, eat, then study…an…still no word from Shamura, this was…what made these days somewhat..intolerable. They’d come in most days, greet you, eat with you and take you on your next lesson but after that day….now they only showed up to speak with Allocer and disregard your existence. That….hurt worse than the spanking, you almost wished it was just that and a long scolding. At least then it’d be over and things would-

….You brought this on yourself you idiot…thats all, no amount of apologies will fix it. You tucked your hands into the sleeves of your little robe as Allocer began to set out your food. Ugh this headache just….

“Alright, after you eat we’ve got a few things to take care of.” Allocer’s voice came as a nice balm to your headache for a minute, you nodded and proceeded to eat. You twitched when you felt his hand on your forehead, brushing a few strands of hair from your face. You didn’t look at them though, you just focused on your food. You finished it after ten minutes, you were offered the bread and sweet jam but…you pushed it away…you weren’t in the mood for any sweets right now.

“Well, now that you’re done let’s get to work.” After dusting you off, they picked you up and settled you in his arms.

[Nighttime]

Ugh this freaking headache! After everything it just wouldn’t go away…you sat in the basin as Allocer scrubbed your back. They were rather silent through out but honestly you didn’t mind, after today…silence was appreciated. All afternoon you heard nothing but nasty jeers and comments from the followers in Silk Cradle. Calling you a ‘false bishop’ or ‘heretic’ all due to your screw up. Allocer managed to shut a few up but…others were just stubborn.

Hell one threw a rock at you, almost got you too…that follower is now missing some teeth. You wanted to apologize to the follower for what Allocer did but they took you away before you could say anything. It’s..not like the follower was wrong, they were one of the workers who helped with that monument. Their anger was justified right?

….right…?

“Alright, you’re done.” Their tone was like they were finishing a chore, you were lifted up and placed down on a soft blanket. Dried off before changed into a clean diaper and your nightgown, at least the headache dulled down…but it still wasn’t going away. You had just been settled into your bassinet when, though faint, a knock came to the nursery door.

Allocer growled “Who’s there?”

No answer, you felt their hands grow tense. They patted your head before leaving, closing the door behind him. Shamura’s nursery for you was different than the ones the other bishops had, the main difference was those nurseries were all one large room. This one was two rooms, the main area that had a large silk rug, a small chest of toys, and a desk. Then there’s the room you were currently in, this room had the wash basin, changing mat, our bassinet and on the far side…a fireplace with a soft blue flame constantly burning. A iron grate was kept over it to keep anyone [mainly you] from going near it and rounded fencing for extra safety. The caves of Silk Cradle retained heat but also could retain the could too so many homes had fireplaces like these to ensure constant warmth.

You often found yourself staring at this flame, while the flames in other parts of Silk Cradle were the typical orange…this was an ethereal blue, mixed with flashes of white. Allocer hadn’t pulled your canopy over your bassinet when he left so..you had a full view of the flame….you watched it as it danced, climbed up the walls of the hearth and popped out little embers from time to time. You blinked and sank into your bassinet, staring deeply at the azure blaze…you wondered who had come to your nursery at this time. You glanced at the door, it was faint but you could hear Allocer talking but you couldn’t hear anyone else with them. So…no danger you guessed, you returned to gazing at the fire.

…..You wanted Shamura back…but because you had to be stupid and pour that red pigment into those jars you ended up loosing them. Not just that but almost all of Silk Cradle saw you as a false bishop….and they’re right. What kind of bishop does stupid things like that?! And all for what…cause Shamura was not paying attention to you?! Didn’t you learn anything from Heket!? You clutched your head, all of this was your fault…

You stupid, stupid false-

[creeeeeeeeak]

You heard the nursery door opening, you dropped your hands down to your side…eyes closed. Probably Allocer, making sure you weren’t causing mischief or anything, not that you’d blame them. After all you-

You were picked up, it was one fluid motion. Your blanket swaddled around you, your new pillow someone’s chest. Your eyes shot open wide.

T-This wasn’t Allocer! You panicked for a moment and was ready to scream out for them but..was silenced when the end of a waterskin was put to your lips. You shoved it away and again was about to scream for Allocer…until you looked up…to see a familiar face…

————————————

[Moments earlier]

The door was closed behind them, Allocer readied their dagger. No one should be here at this time, with no answer…that meant only trouble. They came to the door, dagger pointed. They reached for the handle when a whisper came through.

“It is I Allocer.”

All at once, the air froze…then a sigh came from the witness before sheathing their blade. The door opened..an Shamura walked in, their steps inaudible. Allocer noticed them carrying a waterskin and a small jar, setting them down Shamura took a seat near the desk.

“…Report.”

One order, that was given any time Shamura arrived in the nursery. Always when little crown was asleep or at least close to it. They’d get a report on how their sibling was doing, seeing if they were meditating like Shamura wanted or continuing to act out. However due to recent issues with Shamrua’s following they missed the last two nights.

Allocer took in a breath and began. “They have been quiet, behaving..however more issues have arisen with some of the adolescents of our following. Three of which painted blasphemous words on the nursery door, I’ve since dealt with them…but things have only gotten worse my liege.”

Shamura’s face remained unchanged. “Explain.”

“Today, a young scorpio had thrown a stone at little crown. I’m not proud of this but my anger got the better of me and said youngling is now missing some teeth. The rest of the day has been filled with more followers whispering and commenting more blasphemy at little crown….calling them a false-“

Allocer was silenced with one of Shamura’s hands raised in the air, they didn’t need to hear anymore. Slowly the bishop of war stood and dismissed his witness, for a moment the witness stared..before bowing and taking their leave. Shamura watched Allocer leave, once gone…they moved towards the door leading to the sleeping quarters. Shamrua would’ve waited till the next day but…given the current situation…it was about time to show some leniency.

———————————

W-what was Shamura doing here?! You didn’t do anything wrong! You behaved, you didn’t cause any trouble! Why was-!?

They pulled you closer to their chest, again the waterskin was brought to your lips. You hesitated but not wishing to anger them you took the waterskin and began to drink. Your little body trembling under that gaze, what the hell did they want?! Where you suppose to say something, did you do something, wha-

…They began rubbing your head, pressing it against their chest as they began walking around the room. You recall them doing this before, you were having a tough time falling asleep for no reason. They stayed with you, walking you around the room until you fell asleep. After a few minutes they stopped, pulling the waterskin from you. Looking up you noticed them pulling a small jar from their sleeve.

…Oh no, you knew what that stuff was..thats Kallamar’s special cure all medicine. Your face scrunched up as you watched Shamura get out a small spoon and scooped out a small portion out. You knew what was coming next, no sense in fighting it…you opened your mouth and sure enough, in went the spoon. Ugh, it was so bitter and worst yet the medicine was a thick syrup so it coated your mouth. You swallowed it and the moment you did the waterskin returned, you began suckling to wash away the taste of the medicine….you finished the milk in the waterskin when…you realized…your headache was gone.

It was finally gone!

Shamura could almost sense your relief as they leaned down and pressed their forehead to yours, their eyes closed. You looked for a moment…before your own eyes closed too…your body began to grow still but you managed to reach and take hold of one of Shamura’s fingers…you were expecting it to either pull away or do nothing. Instead their finger curls around your hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Their thumb gently gliding over the back of your fingers, they pulled their head away but continued holding your hand. You felt them move again…this tiem taking a seat, you weren’t sure where until they began rocking back and forth….sure enough Shamura was back in the sleeping quarters, sitting in the rocking chair near the fireplace.

Your eyes remained closed…you can hear Shamura clicking their mandibles, they always did that when they started meditating. It..was soothing, melding with the crackling sound of the fire. You curl up into a ball, clutching their finger as you felt your mind begin to drift off to sleep…

You weren’t sure what was happening but…

…No, you were done questioning. You knew Shamura wasn’t going to say a word but…they’d show you things were ok..things were going to be ok.

Everything was going to be ok.

Chapter Text

Ok so for a while I’ve been wracking my brain trying to figure out what to do next, yes you’ve all been entertained by the ‘Discipline’ stories an I know Narinder is suppose to be next but sadly I can’t find a good plot to use for him that makes sense ya know? I don’t wanna write his part just to complete the set so I’ll pick that up when time comes or incorporate it into what I’ve got coming. 

Whats coming you may ask? Well I’ve decided to expand on the ‘Baby Bishop’ idea and give the reader a more cannon story. 

I also may [if any want] do a spin on the bishop story where ‘You’ the reader are the Caretaker under the Lamb’s guidance to each bishop who have now regressed after being defeated by the Lamb for the second time. Yes I do plan to do this idea but much later down the line so please hang in there while I write out these current ideas in my head. 

I’ve written so far how each bishop catches you but to be fair those were more ‘what if’ scenarios. I hope you enjoy the following story arc 

Chapter Text

The deed was done now…but now you were wandering, where you’d go you didn’t know. You spent your days mostly walking, where you’d end up you didn’t know nor cared..you just moved. How long had you been walking? Did it really matter? No..it didn’t matter, you just continued on your way, just a wisp of the person you once were…the dancer who sailed through the skies on ropes of silk. A poised figure that defied gravity on just a single wire…stop thinking about it. That life is gone, gone….gone….

“Welcome.”

You flinch, when had you…you wandered into a clearing, there sitting tall was a figure dressed in feathered vermillion, you only heard about in bedtime stories…Clauneck, keeper of fate and reader of the cards.

“Lost little one, the cards have shown me your future. Please come, sit.” You blinked at him..he wasn’t a threat you knew that so…you slowly approached and knelt down before him. Their long, spindled fingers reach and draw three cards, face down before you. He flipped the first card…showing flames, flames that swirled around a figure kneeling..screaming to the sky. You turned away…

“…The past..that is left behind, grounds our places in the present. It is hard to look back but we must also must never forget, it helps prevent mistakes from being made.” His words…he was right, despite the fact it still hurt to hear it. He flipped the next card..that same figure now standing in the center of a maze…a white star shining above their head, at each point what appeared to be…colored shapes.

A purple crescent, a blue circle, a yellow upside down triangle, a green diamond and…the red color was shaped..like an eye..in fact…all the colors had a similar ‘eye’ pattern to them. All looking towards the white star in the center…it staring right back at you. You blink..and look at Clauneck who just smiled back at you. “Sometimes to find your way, you must become lost. That goes for your thoughts, your heart and mind.”

You looked up at him…then away, yeah..that made sense. More than you were willing to admit, finally the last card was flipped. Showing now…a crown and that white star at its center, sitting atop of the head of a small figure, wrapped tightly in a bundle of cloth. Lone figures surround the bundle adorned with those strange colored shapes, all with the look of love, protection, guidance, devotion and familial longing. Reaching to the bundle…and resting their hands on the young one’s outstretched palm.

“When all is lost…all is found as the cards say.” You stare at this one card, a dull ache appearing in your chest. You flinch when Clauneck offered you this card, you took it all be it with some hesitation. “You will find your way my friend, you just need to take the first step.”

You looked back to thank him but…he was gone, all that was left was the faint smell of incense. You looked back down at them card…for some reason it both hurt…and warmed you. You tucked the card into your breast pocket and began walking again. His words echoing through your mind, again you were distracted and failed to look where you were going…you only took notice of your surroundings when the sound of crunching dirt and grass..shifted to stone and remnants…of flesh.

“WELCOME!!”

You screamed as something large dropped down from above, what kept you from getting crushed were heavy chains that kept this massive figure from fully coming down on you…this figure…is Chemach, the mad relic maker.

“Welcome, welcome! I was waiting for you my darling!” You didn’t have time to run, she snatched you up in one hand. “I have what you’ve been looking for! Here you go my little friend!”

Something was placed on your head, whatever it was…it felt like it wasn’t gonna come off. She plopped you on the ground and without another word arose to the ceiling above. For a moment you stat there stunned, the clanging of chains brought you back to reality as you bolted out of that place. But..the moment you stepped outside…you felt the ground almost disappear from your feet. Only to find it hitting your front, side and back as you go tumbling down a nearby hill. You landed hard…way too hard.

You were about ready to cry, you had tumbles like this before in the circus for goodness sake why are you ready to cry now?! You sat up and rubbed your face, when you looked at your hands….t-they were smaller! You looked at yourself, your clothes had become larger and had fallen off your body! There was a puddle of water nearby, you scrambled to it….you looked at yourself…no longer an adult..but a baby, a toddler to exact!

There…staring at you from atop your head…was a crown…and a white star upon it.

———————————

That happened seven days ago, you weren’t sure what was happening to you. Your mind was intact but your body had regressed, you could walk thankfully but your other functions were…well..they were no longer in your control. Much like a toddler they were involuntary, you also had to be careful with what food you could eat now, surviving mostly on mushed berries and whatever foliage you could get your hands on. Besides that fact…the crown was talking to you, on your second night it started talking to you.

Naturally you freaked out but….after a few more days you found yourself less scared of it, heck it even showed you how to collect food in your new state. Even showed you how to make some temporary clothes out of your old ones, just…a cloak mostly but still better then nothing.

“Eat up all your berries my little one.”

Its voice was soft, gentle and for the most part..comforting. It just told you some minor things from time to time like now. You had just mashed up some berries and…well were just staring at it for a long while…just…lost in your own thoughts. How did you get here..how did all fall-

“Little one, your body needs its nourishment. You must eat if you wish to traverse these woods safely.” The crown whispered, you sighed and agreed.

Your hands pushed handfuls of mush into your mouth, the crown was right. You needed to eat, you were coming across Darkwood…you were going to need a lot of energy to maneuver through there. It wasn’t your first time but in this state it’d be far more difficult, you turned towards a tree..nailed to it was some parchment talking about a ‘thief’ and their endeavors to ruin the faith of the ‘bishops’.

What a load of crock, just more fakes…or at least you hoped they were. In such a short time you learned not just magic but to use curses as well, with the crowns guidance of course. But there was a problem, the crown stated it was keeping your body moving with residual energy but it can’t keep it up for long. It’s why you could walk, if it wasn’t for the crown you’d be crawling. Saved for some of your ‘bodily functions’ as well but even then it’s limited.

You paused your eating to ask it where the two of you were suppose to go. It spoke. “We’re going to join the other crowns, your new family.” You snapped back stating you didn’t want a new ‘family’ your family was dead and you sure as hell were not looking to replace them. “My sweet little one, I can tell you desire to have what you lost an believe me with my guidance you’ll have a family again. Your memories are distorted and twisted, not all of them were kind to you.”

You growled at the crown to be quiet, shoving more of the mash into your mouth. But the crown continued to speak to you. “My dear, I wish not to hurt you…but to move on you must let them go. I’m not saying to forget them but not hold on to the past…you need to grow little bishop.”

You paused…little bishop? “Yes, you are a bishop now. Young yes but a bishop nonetheless, there are five others. With luck we’ll find one of them a get you-“ a twig snapped…you turn towards the sound. Quickly diving into a bush you wait…a figure walks by…large and intense. Your body froze at the sight.

W-what….is that?!

——————————————

[Leshy’s POV]

He was so board, but his patrols had to be done, honestly he just wanted to be with his Myre…well his scout was sent out to collect him so…he’d just have to entertain himself till his arrival. Question was…should he take Myre a bit further into the woods for some ‘alone time’ or just stick to the plan of patrol.

He was leaning towards the former…but knowing Shamura caught them the last time he decided to stick with the patrol and treat it like a date. He was trying to think of some places…when his scout came running back looking frantic.

“L-Lord Leshy quick!”

Leshy turned, it was the same scout he sent before. “What happened, is Myre alright?!”

“H-He’s the one sent me back to get you! Hurry please sir!”

“What happened?!”

The scout panted and pointed “F-Found an infant….wearing a crown sir, just like yours only white!”

———————————————

You looked up to see a figure…a cat…dressed in white and red, fur of pure ebony and three eyes like hot coals partially hidden behind a black veil. They walked past you, footsteps as silent as a leaf landing on the ground. They continued walking till they stopped at a tree, looking up…as if to admire the foliage around them. Their smile was warm and somber, you watched them just about to leave…when two figures approached the, a simple yellow cat, his robes were that of a high priest but….were not the usual color of one. Almost all priests you met dressed in either white or black with gold insignias. This one was verdant with embroidered Camilla’s along the hem, the other was a lamb, wearing a red cloak and a bell. Under the cloak was simple traveling attire…but the cloak itself looked extravagant despite its simple red design. Wait…you recognized that cat…kinda, that cat was attacked by one of Minos’ minions!

“Narinder, my love there you are!” Sang the Lamb. “Wandering all on your lonesome? You could’ve asked me to join you, nature is beautiful when shared among lovers~”

The yellow cat laughed. “Lambert, how rude! You think my company unworthy?” You heard all of them laugh together..your heart tightened…such a bizarre sight but…yet so familiar. “Myre, do you think ‘me’ so cruel?!”

More laughter…you couldn’t stand it, you almost wanted to run off-

“Brother Myre! Brother Myre, lord Leshy wishes to see you!” You jumped hearing a voice, a figure came running up to them. Looked to be a young dog dressed in robes…coming to a halt before the three. “O-oh lord Narinder! Forgive my rude intrusion!”

You watch the cat wave his hand. “It’s alright, the Lamb and I were about to take our leave..best you go to Leshy, you know how he gets when you’re not there with him-“

Uh oh…your nose itched…t-the bush you were in was spreading pollen..it got in your nose, n-no hold it-

‘AH-CHOO!!’

Oh no…you went still, peeking out the figures before you froze as well, the scout looked around them. “Who’s there?!”

“Easy, sounded like a child, probably one of the children from Anura. Heket said she was taking them through here for foraging lessons.” Said the black cat, they cupped a hand around their mouth.  “Come out little one, it’s not safe here. I can return you to your friends if you’re lost, don’t be afraid.”

You slowly, ever so slowly made your way out of the bush. Making sure you stay out of sight, one thing was for sure..you didn’t want to be-

“Oh! Over there! I saw you moving that bush, come here, this is no time for jokes little one!” Crud the scout saw you moving! Before you could run, the bush was parted….a you were staring at the very group you were spying on….and they were staring right back at you! There eyes at first calm and somewhat annoyed…but began to morph into shock and confusion. You on the other hand…stared back in fear.

The yellow cat spoke first. “I-Is..is that-“

“A crown…a white…crown!” The Lamb shouted, that snapped you back to reality. You bolted away as fast as you could.

You could hear them yelling for you, but you turn a deaf ear to them. You just ran, ran as fast as your little legs could! You had to get away! You could hear them tearing through the underbrush coming after you. Calling out for you to stop, you had to get away! You turned left, right, just trying to put distance between you and that group!

You rounded a large tree…when something burst out from the ground almost sending you flying, thankfully the only thing flying was the dirt around you. You fell back and looked up…at a towering pillar of moss..with black and crimson eyes staring down at you..a second later…you saw a wall of sharp teeth smiling down at you.

———————————

[Leshy’s POV]

The scout wasn’t wrong, it was a white crown but what got Leshy excited…it was a new sibling! He wasn’t the baby anymore! Sadly he was too caught up in the shock and joy to see the little crown running into the brush. No matter though, Darkwood was his territory and his alone!

“Leshy!” Turning, Leshy saw his husband running towards him. Followed by Lambert, the scout and Narinder. Despite Myre being there…Leshy grabbed hold of his older brother instead. “Narinder! THERE’S A BABY CROWN!”

Narinder stumbled back a bit but caught him. “Y-Yes Leshy we saw! Please get ahold of yourself and help round them up before they get hurt!”

Didn’t need to tell him twice, he shot off into the woods. Already catching the scent of the little crown.

To their disappointment….they were heading into Anura.

Chapter Text

“A…new sibling…I can’t believe this!” Kallamar gushed as he bounced from one counter to another, picking up vials and other trinkets around his office. Heket leaning against his desk and picked up something, no doubt the latest ‘invitation’ in his repertoire. “Believe it Kall, Narinder, Lambert, Myre and Leshy all saw it with their own eyes.”

“Oh so many things to do, so little time! We haven’t had a baby in the family since Leshy, I wonder what their personality is? What kind of bishop are they going to be? Oh the possibilities- Heket do be careful with that please.”

“What is it?” Heket asked, twirling the item in her hand. It was made of strong glass and was cylindrical in shape, almost like one of his testing beakers accept the top was covered with rubber..like someone cut one of Kallamar’s surgery gloves and put it over top, she noted the pin prick hole at the top. “That my dear sister is a new innovation made by a young upstart in my cult, they call it a ‘baby bottle’ and plan to introduce this as an alternative to waterskins to feed babies.”

“..What the hell’s wrong with waterskins?” Heket couldn’t understand why this was so amazing, but sure enough Kallamar clicked his tongue and continued. “Tut, tut dear sister, waterskins are useful yes, but they’re hard to clean and even if they are you can’t tell a clean one from a dirty one just by looking at them from the outside. With this, not only can you tell if it’s clean but you can see what kind of liquid is inside so no one will mistake a Wine skin for a Milk skin!”

Ok, credit where it’s due. This was rather brilliant little idea, Heket raised an impressed brow. She eyed the glass a bit more before setting it down. “What prompted the idea?”

Kallamar turned, taking the bottle from her and placing it into a satchel. “Apparently the ‘upstart’ has a sister who recently gave birth and we all know how newborns are at night. Poor thing was sleep deprived and almost gave her baby a waterskin filled with wine rather than milk. Thankfully her wife stopped her in time, thus the creation of the ‘baby bottle’ came to be.”

“Huh..learn something new, but why are you packing it?”

Kallamar grinned. “Well when we find our new sibling they’ll be hungry, an I’ve seen this invention used to great affect so why not put it to good use. Anyway speaking of packing, have you prepared your supplies for our little crusade?”

“You know I have, I got rations, supplies and more. If yer done then let’s move, couple of scouts claimed they saw the new crown heading towards my domain.” Heket opened her satchel, double checking her supplies one last time before turning back to Kallamar.

“Then let’s not waste time dear sister! Our newest sibling awaits!”

———————————

You weren’t sure when you got to Anura, all you knew is that you hated the humidity around you. Not to mention the air was so heavy it felt like you were being crushed by the moisture alone. Still though, you pressed on. You pushed through marsh grass, trudged through mud and avoided anything that looked remotely suspicious….even campsites that looked abandoned. After escaping Darkwood and the Bishop Leshy-

…….

They were real…the bishops were actually real, for a long time you had always thought the bishops were some made up creation used to scare children into obedience. Wouldn’t be the first time, you assumed ‘Leshy’ was a boogeyman that came for naughty kids who didn’t want to eat their vegetables or wandered too far from home. Boy were you wrong, you saw with your own eyes the very bishop of chaos…Leshy. Worst yet was the next thought that came to mind….the black cat with three red eyes you saw…the name…

Narinder.

That name…only belonged to one bishop, one your former ringmaster had a small shrine dedicated to. But they went by another title, one your former ringmaster used quite often when addressing either the gathered marks..or to you…

’The one who waits’

He who awaits each soul, judges them accordingly and sends them either to a world of bliss or a world of suffering. Your ringleader often prayed to this particular figure for some reason, you asked once why…but never got an answer.

An now..never will…

No, don’t think about it. You had to focus and keep moving, ever since departing Darkwood you’ve been constantly followed by cultist. Tracking every step you took, you managed to evade some trackers but that was due to Darkwood being easy to traverse….Anura was a different beast all together. You stopped to rest at a nearby clearing, sitting amongst the tall grass for protection. You wiped the sweat from your brow and sighed….it was too muggy to sleep but you could feel it creeping on you.

“You must find a safer place to rest, this is not ideal.”

The crown was talking again, whispering those words into your mind….it was right. Slowly you got up and looked around..you found a path and started down it.

It continued to speak. “Someone is up ahead, please stay close to them. They will take you to a safe place..”

You wobbled a bit, whimpering…you asked the crown if its power was depleting. “No, but I can’t keep you walking for long. The power I’ve been giving you has been to keep you moving and away from potential dangers but it’s based on your own energy rather than mine. You have not slept properly since you acquired me…please rest.”    

Sighing you agreed….you pondered on how it can sense these things…but chalked it up to some ‘magic crown energy’ or whatever it’s called. But you wondered…what kind of ‘someone’ was the crown referring to. You can smell a fire, not just that but..something was cooking as well…you moved forward. Oh your feet felt so sore…the world was starting to spin…before long…it went black.

————————————

[Aym&Baal’s POV]

Ugh, traveling through Anura was such a pain in the ass but it was also the only place to collect mushrooms. There wasn’t these twins wouldn’t do for their mother, she was making her special tea as an offering to bishop Heket and required a very specific mushroom to make it. Well, they dropped off the mushrooms, all that was left was to head back home-

“…You hear that?” Baal turned to Aym. “Hear what?”

Aym looked around, he swore heard something. Straining he finally caught the sound again, coming just a few feet from their camp. “Over there!”

The two readied their weapons, Baal pushed back a bush with his…the moment he did..he jolted his weapon back. Setting it on the ground he rushed and pulled the little figure from the bush, Aym at his side with a blanket. There, lying in the bush was a small toddler….

……wearing a white crown.

————————————

The world was starting to spin a bit again…but the one nice thing was..you didn’t feel heavy anymore. In fact…the ache in your feet had all but disappeared. Although you could do without the noise, there was so much of it. Someone talking..bickering, you whimpered but the sound was dulled by the crowns voice.

“Easy now, you’re safe. You’re being care for right now, our allies are just washing you up and tending to your wounds.”

You wanted to ask who these allies are..but the moment you opened your mouth something was slipped in. For a moment you felt your heart race till you tasted something familiar…milk, camellia milk to be exact. The moment you realize this..you began sucking it down. You heard voices…young voices, not quite adult but not childlike either…somewhere in-between, perhaps…teen. Yes teenager, that was it, there was two of them from what you could hear.

You felt a hand brush your scalp, pushing back some of your hair. You didn’t open your eyes though..no yo-you kept them closed. You just felt so comfortable right there…you felt warm and with your belly being filled and whatever was happening now just felt…

….safe….

———————————

[Aym and Baal’s POV]

“Pass me those bandages.” Baal pointed, Aym passed them with a free hand. All while making sure the infant in his lap was propped up and comfortable.

He had to admit…Baal was better at tending to wounds an despite his looks Aym prided himself on his own care of infants. Both of them were sometimes tasked with babysitting when they returned to their master’s domain but that was only when no one else was available. Now wasn’t the time to dwell on those things, they had a job to do. They had a baby to tend to and not just any baby..an infant bishop! Their feet were scuffed, they had mud on them and…were naked.

Nothing they couldn’t handle, the river nearby gave them some water to wash the poor thing off and they had some spare cloth to make a diaper with and they had some milk stored away in a spare waterskin. It took only a few minutes but they had them cleaned and diapered, Aym wrapped them in a blanket before getting the waterskin. However when brought to the little ones lips they turned and continued to sleep, for now they’d forgot feeding the little one till they woke up fully.

“Where do you think they came from?” Baal asked, gathering the supplies in his knapsack. Aym shrugged. “No idea and to be honest it’s not important right now. Let’s get them to either a temple or to mom.”

“Right…but mom’s probably half way back home now, closest temple is probably Heket’s. Even then she’s not around right now…or priests..let’s just move, if we come across one of the bishops we’ll hand them over. Simple as that.” Well that caught Aym off guard a bit, Baal wasn’t usually that curt…well until he turned to look at him. He was holding the little bishop in his arms, eyes half closed and smiling wide. The tone may have been curt but the message was clear, get the baby to a safe place as soon as possible.

With that the twins moved on, weapons ready in case of trouble. Baal had put the infant bishop in a sling tied to his back, smiling he gently adjusted the little one. Assuring they were comfortable, after all traversing Anura was not an easy task. Both thought with luck they’d run into Heket or at least one of her deciples…or even better her witness. But till then they’d just have to keep moving, neither noticed how the white crown looked around…eyeing any movement…any shadow that lingered.

———————————

[Heket’s POV]

“Still no sign of them…”  Heket’s voice broke the heavy silence, she and Kallamar had only walked a short distance but it was evident that something sinister was at play. It happened the moment they set foot in Anura, when a bishop enters their domain all becomes known to them. Meaning any newcomer is sensed but that didn’t happen for Heket.

Kallamar had stopped to look around before turning back to his sister. “Are you sure?”

“Yes…” she glared into the foliage before Kallamar came up beside her. “Though….I can’t feel our newest sibling…I do sense something here thats…not suppose to be here.”

Turning to Heket, just one look told him everything…his eyes grew cold, sharp, like a blade foraged from ice. The two proceeded onwards, eyes darting from left to right…then like an arrow leaving its bow they shot off into Anura’s dense foliage. There it was, the thing Heket sensed! They ran, barreling through underbrush and thickets, before stopping at a clearing.

“Aym! Baal!”

There in that clearing were two familiar black cats, groaning as they tried to sit up. Kallamar waisted no time checking for injuries, so far nothing life threatening but it was. They began to regain consciousness after a few minutes, Baal came round first.

“L-Lord Kallamar?” There was some blood dripping from his head, a few bandages and he would be fine. “A-Aym is he ok?!”

“He’s alright, what happened here, did you see what attacked you?” Kallamar asked, cleaning the wound on his head. Heket was helping Aym already, rubbing his back a bit as he sat up. “We were…on our way to Lady Heket’s temple w-with the baby bishop- wait the baby!”

Suddenly both shot up looking around. “Where’s little crown?! They were with us!”

“Whoa, easy you two had the little one with you?” Kallamar held both still as he fixed their bandages again. Aym coughed. “We found an infant with a white crown, we were on our way to y-your temple Lady Heket…when Midas showed up. Normally he’d not bother with us but…I don’t know he just hit us and then things went-“

“Knockout powder.”

Everyone but Kallamar turned to look at Heket, she was rubbing something between her fingers…something collected off of Aym’s cloak. “It’s knockout powder, a face full of this would put anyone’s lights out a seeing how your gold is missing it’s gotta be him…well we know where to go next.”

Chapter Text

[Midas POV]

“Come off already!!”

Midas tried but no matter how hard he pulled…that crown was not coming off, he thought having such a rare creature in his collection would be perfect but now he wasn’t so sure. To find a toddler with a crown would be the perfect centerpiece in his collection of statues…if he could only get the child into the damn spell circle! But he couldn’t do that till he got the crown off their head! The spell wouldn’t work if it was on! Currently he had the child tied to a chair and was proceeding to pull at the crown but it wouldn’t budge.

He may be greedy but he wasn’t a monster…per-say, yes he could just cut the kid’s head off but given this was a bishop he’d probably face repercussions. So removing the crown was the only option…but that stupid crown either wouldn’t come off or stabbed his hands each time he approached.

Even now, trying to pull it off with his own hands [wearing protective gloves this time] tried to pry the crown off but even then it was like trying to pry a boulder out of six feet of mud.

“Well…guess I’ll just have to keep you like this, pity though, you would’ve looked so beautiful as a statue.”

Midas turned and walked towards a box, pulling out a golden cloak. Proceeding to tie it around the little one, their arms still bound with rope…and the crown scowling at the greedy miser.

———————————

You remembered this greedy bastard from one performance many years ago, he tried to get in for free just with his bravado alone. Kudos to you the ticket seller, all their years of weight lifting payed off. You were laughing so hard hearing how he flipped Midas over and shook every piece of gold out of that cloak of his and threw him into the stands. It was the first and last time you ever saw Midas at the circus. But now here you were, tied to a chair with a heavy gold shawl over your shoulders….

‘Still a stingy prick’ you muttered aloud when Midas left. However you looked to see the crown looking around…almost…tense. You told the crown there wasn’t anything to be scared of, yeah the melted gold statues were…creepy but weren’t going to hurt the two of you-

“No…no it’s not Midas I’m concerned about..someone else is here. Someone who…I’m afraid will do you great harm if we do not leave this very second!”

You could almost feel the tremble in its voice, well curse your good nature you agreed with it and started working on the ropes. Years of circus performances gave you skills no one was ever taught, how to untie ropes was one of them. Having escape artists in the performances always brought in crowds as they say, it was just difficult with your hands being so small but you managed it. Getting the cloak off though proved to be the biggest challenge, it was heavy! The thing was indeed made of gold, but with the crowns help you unclasped it and was about to run for the door.

“Wait! Not that way, you’ll be caught! See that mound of gold over there, near the column with the snail? There’s a way out through a small tunnel, go now.”

Why…ugh whatever you did as they said and…well sure enough there was a burrow leading outside. You crawled in, however just a few feet in…you could sense something…something…hungry right behind you. You scrambled forward, almost feeling its claws reaching for you…the crown continues to speak. Though its voice still shaky it keeps encouraging you forward.

“Thats it, keep going! You’re almost to the end, be careful when you-“

And you fall again, rolling down the side of the mountain Midas calls home. You get scuffed up and bruised as you try to slow your rapid decent down. The crown tries to help but by then you had reached the bottom of the mountain..with a hard ‘thud’. You groan…that was…a very hard hit but you were some how still able to get up, you shiver feeling the crown take hold of you again. This time fully controlling your aching body…its voice though soothing you as it moves you forward.

“Stay strong little one, safety is within reach!”

You wanted to fall over…you wanted to sleep…everything just feels…too much, your eyes fill with tears as you wobble forward. Stumbling and almost bumping into trees…you started to stumble but caught yourself on a tree. Blinking…you looked up…you heard the sound of waves crashing, the sound of sea gulls, the whirl of a fishing line being cast.

Pilgrims…passage.

——————————————

[Sunset]

The light house keepers were very nice, the moment they saw you they rushed over trying to patch your wounds and get you into clean clothes. Though..it also could be due to your crown but either way you were being mended. They gave you food, blankets and then some…yet you could do without them constantly carrying you around like a effigy.

Right now you were settled inside the lighthouse, in a makeshift bed made of pillows and a blanket. The sun was setting and the lighthouse keepers were all funneling outside for some odd ‘fairwell to the sun’ ritual. This gave you the opportunity to talk to the crown…back in Midas’s cave you brought up the strange feeling and its comment about how it sounded scared. The crown let out a deep sigh, you watched with surprise as it transformed from a crown to a serpent and settled into your lap.

“Given our situation.. answers are in order, the danger inside Midas’s cave is a very old evil. One…I sadly am responsible for..” you blinked, asking for the crown to explain. “Many years ago, my siblings; the other crowns were forged by Chemach before she went insane. I foolishly went out to seek myself a bearer…and succeeded, but I was stupid and picked without proper thought…”

The crown rose and looked into your eyes as it continued. “I found a fox, a simple fox fishing by a river and offered him power. He accepted without question, for a while things were alright….until one night..he did the unthinkable. The fox killed and devoured his own kin, for no other reason than the fact that he could…and get away with it.” It looked away..its body started to curl, trying to become small.

Your spine turned to ice…you ask the crown what its purpose is, you’re aware each bishop had their own ‘role’ in the world. What was the white crowns role? It looked up at you, its singular eye locked with yours.

“My purpose…is to bring light to this world, to guide all those who are lost in the darkness to the light of faith. Be it wisdom, health, harvest, order….or perhaps the light to what is beyond, I am also what exposes the lies and false hoods that try to hide in the shadows…harsh as I may be…I am necessary. While one wants to extinguish me, without me…it cannot exist.”

You reply to the statement, without light, shadows never exist…the crown nods to you. “Thats right, it’s what my previous bearer refused to accept…and for that I abandoned them. But it was not without consequences, he retained some abilities that he continues to abuse. Teleportation being one of them, however its limited. He can only move in shadows an even then it can only be at night. But even then…he’s dangerous…cunning, he’ll ask for small things like a fish to earn your trust..then ask for something slightly bigger then before you know it….he’s eaten you..or someone you love just to prove a point.”

You asked what the point is.

“His point…that everyone craves power, that everyone is no different than he is..”

For a moment…you both stood still..not saying a word, it didn’t stay that way for long as your arms wrapped around the serpentine crown and hugged it. You weren’t sure why but…you just felt like hugging the poor thing, silly as it sounded. You gave a reply, its true some are like that but not everyone…you are nothing like the fox. You promised the crown..as long as you two were together you’d never fall into the same ways as the fox. You couldn’t promise you’d be good..but you if the crown decided to leave..then you’d let it go without resisting.

You blinked…when it started laughing.

“My dear…that won’t happen. I’ve waited such a long time for my new bearer, you were foretold to me by Clauneck after I left the fox. He assured me you’d be faithful to my power…but I will not force you into this role, you must accept it on your own.”

Looking away..you thought about everything that happened. You…didn’t have anything really, the circus was gone, you had no family to return to and..well that was it. Turning to the crown, you asked…if you became a bishop what would happen.

“Well..for starters you’d undergo training by the other bishops, you’ll start your own following and take on this responsibility for the rest of time. Right now you’re technically a ‘vessel’ not a bishop, you won’t become one until you fully accept me as your crown and your duty as a bishop.”

You asked if that was it..and the crown nodded. You blinked and after a moment of silence, you gave your new friend a big smile. You playfully took its serpent head into your hands and told it..you’d agree to become its bearer, playfully saying you really didn’t have much of a choice now. It looked back at you, its one eye widening.

“Y-You’ll accept me?! After everything has happened you’d-“

You held up your hand, you told your new friend that despite all that has happened..you’d still accept your role as a bishop..there wasn’t much else for you to return back to anyway. Plus..mabye this was for the best, that you considered this a new start to life, your one request to the crown was..that from this day forward the two of you would be called friends. The crown stared at you in its serpent form…was it your imagination or was the crown…crying? Finally it closed its eye…tears disappearing before taking on its crown appearance once more, eye now focused deep into your own.

“Child…will you accept me, the white crown. Accept all that comes with the title of Bishop, build a cult in thy honor, raise it well and live as intended.”

You accepted without hesitation, the crown sprang from your hands high up almost touching the top of the light house roof…before coming down and landing squarely on your head. Unlike how Chemach placed the crown on your head..this was different. It felt more like a sword being placed back into its scabbard, securing itself. Your eyes flashed white and…you felt a rush of energy course through your veins. Tears spilled from your eyes like falling stars, glittering the floor, before you knew it the feeling passed…and you let out a breath that you unknowingly held in. Your body shaking…you tried to get up but..found yourself feeling..heavy.

“Friend…you need rest now, tomorrow we can work on finding the bishops but now..sleep.”

You smile and reply that tomorrow would be focused on fixing the lighthouse, the bishops can wait a little bit longer can’t they? You heard the crown chuckle a bit before speaking. “You’re correct, but you can’t achieve that without rest. So sleep.”

Your smile broadened…before you relented and closed your eyes, your friend is right, you needed sleep for all the hard work that was to come.

Chapter Text

[Dawn]

The lighthouse keepers were outside, greeting the rising sun with you in the head-keeper’s arms. Everyone raised their hands up in honor of the sun rising, you had to admit…the sun peeking just over the horizon was a beautiful sight. Once the sun was greeted the lighthouse dwellers meandered about, walking along the shore, chanting, minding their little stall and so on. You too were left to your own devices…which meant figuring out how to get the lighthouse working again. That required wood for starters to put into the giant iron furnace they kept, second was how to keep it from going out.

The wood was easy enough to get, despite your size you had enough strength to cut down some nearby trees. Though it was a tad annoying having all the lighthouse keepers fussing around you, but at least they were compliant and help you. Heck the moment the fire started going the keepers all started parading you around as their ‘Little Crown of Light!’

As flattered as you were, you still had to figure out how to keep the light going. Now you were sitting in the lighthouse on a rug facing the furnace, your little feet wiggling as you mulled over ideas with your crown.

“We could try glass…but that breaks too easily.” The crown muttered to you, you agreed. You asked about crystals, you remembered traveling through ‘Anchordeep’ there were crystals. “That could work, only problem is…well you’re not skilled in battle yet. Anchordeep is a dangerous location without proper training.”

You sighed and agreed but there wasn’t much you could do, you muttered about anyone having connections before a voice sounded behind you.

“There you are!” You jumped a bit, though thankful your skin stayed on. You turned…to see two cats at the entrance of the lighthouse.

————————————

[One day prior, Aym&Baal POV]

Well this was bad, the twins looked around as Heket shook the old miser by his feet. Demanding more than just the location of the youngest bishop from the old bastard, Aym scouted past some of the statues…glaring at one in particular with his good eye. Baal at that time had discovered where the little crown had escaped from.

“Well..we know how they got out but…where could they’ve gone from here?” Muttered Baal, his twin sighed and turned back to lady Heket who had dropped the miser before turning to lord Kallamar. “Think she got anything out of him?”

Baal stood up, dusting off the front of his robe. “I’m guessing from her croaking…she didn’t get anything useful. Not surprised, that greedy prick was never useful to begin with. Well regardless we need to keep looking, maybe stop by smugglers sanctuary or something.”

“I hate that place..the guy who runs it always makes the same damn joke.” Aym sighed…he motioned he was going to step outside for air. He was taking in a breath when…something hit his nose. A familiar smell, burning wood but…it was coming from pilgrims passage.

Odd, Aym was sure there wasn’t anything worth burning there. Still it merited an investigation, walking back in he walked towards lady Heket and lord Kallamar. “My lady, my lord, I’m taking my brother and checking out Pilgrims passage. Somethings going on over there that seems to be of interest.”

“Alright, report back when you can.” Sighed Kallamar, Aym looked up…his tendrils twitching beneath his black and gold robe. With a nod the two moved out, it took an entire day before they came into sight of the lighthouse…with its fire lit.

“When did they get the fire going?” Baal blinked, Aym shrugged as they drew closer. “No clue, maybe they found a new leader. Knowing them they’re not picky when it comes to finding leaders thats for sure.” Not wrong there, probably picked some poor soul that knew how to light a fire.

Welp…only one way to find out.

————————————

Blinking, you stared at the two unfamiliar cats in the door way. Your crown whispered. “Do not worry, they’re friends, they’re the ones who were taking you to safety before Midas attacked.”

You gave a subtle nod, you turned back to the cats. You opened your mouth to say something but were silenced when they raced up and scooped you into their arms. One cat, with a scar on his eye, held you up high. “Finally! We’ve been looking everywhere for you!”

“We couldn’t find you at Midas’s cave and feared the worst!” Said the cat with no scar on his eye, it took you a moment but you managed to wave your arms to both get their attention and calm them down slightly.

You told them that though you are thankful they found you, you had no intention of leaving. This caught them a little off guard…till you explained your predicament. You explained you wanted to not only thank the lighthouse keepers but keep their lighthouse going, preventing anymore ships from crashing. You half expected them to brush off your words and drag you away…but they sat and listened, taking in every word.

“Shouldn’t be too hard, lord Kallamar isn’t far from our location. One of us can head over and let him know, he usually keeps a stash of crystals on hand for various reasons.” Said the scarred cat. You blinked and…felt a little shiver go up your spine. You timidly asked them to repeat what they said, mentioning the ‘Bishop of Pestilence’ himself. Your nerves grew when they nodded, smiles etched on their faces. “He’s actually traveling with lady Heket as well, all the bishops have been looking for you!”

Why did you feel so nervous now?! S-sure they’d come to know of your existence and would want to find you but-

You felt a hand against your cheek, looking up the cat with no scar was smiling at you. “Don’t worry, it can be pretty intimidating, meeting the bishops for the first time. We heard about your encounter with lord Leshy and our master Narinder, but rest assured they only wish to see you return home with them. They see you as family!”

Looking away..you couldn’t help but feel a strange twist in your chest….that word hurt for some reason…given your previous family was gone now. You weren’t sure how to feel, jumping from one family to another….it felt-

“Blessed Lamb, welcome!!” You jumped hearing shouts from outside, you saw a small group of the lighthouse keepers rushing past the door towards someone. The scarred cat stood up. “Thats probably Lambert, Baal stay here with little crown would ya?”

So…Baal was the unscarred cat’s name, they waved their scarred twin off, you turned and asked the name of said twin. “Oh, thats Aym…we didn’t properly introduce ourselves heh, sorry about that.”

You waved it off, then out of the corner of your eye…you spied a familiar figure. Your eyes locked with the very Lamb you encountered days ago, their own eyes widened with surprise. You watched as a smile as big as the moon crossed their face as they rushed in.

“Oh my goodness, here you are! We’ve been looking for you little one~” They knelt down, before you knew it they had you in a tight embrace. If you didn’t know any better…you’d think they believed you to be their long lost child. “All of the bishops have been scouring the lands for you, oh praise be your safe!”

“Good to see you too Lamb.” Smirked Baal, they gave them a playful nudge. “Oh sorry Baal.” The two chuckled a bit before Baal explained your condition.

“Hmm..well, you and Aym know where Kallamar is right now, why not head over and fetch them. Shamura, Leshy and Narinder are probably meeting up with them as we speak.” Baal nodded, stood up and hurried outside to his twin. Now..you are alone with this strange lamb, stranger still is that they didn’t let go of you. You looked up at them, they turned to look at you; that warm smile returning.

“Nari got so worried when you ran off, can’t say I blame him. Running around alone in Darkwood is dangerous…at the same time I bet you were just as scared huh?” You blinked at him before giving a little nod, you turned away…honestly you weren’t sure what to say to them. You turned back when they started rubbing your back, rocking you back and forth slowly. “There, there little one, when we get this whole ‘lighthouse’ thing settled we can have a long chat about everything if you want.”

You stared for a moment, old memories starting to peter back into your mind. Your eyes become misty as you bury your face into the soft wool…before you knew it…you were sobbing. You really have been through a lot, the loss of your home, family and then the crown, being chased, kidnapped and that was just these past few days. The lamb just held you, rocking you in their arms as you cried, whispering words of comfort to you.

“Don’t hold back little one, let it all out..it’s good for you.” Said the lamb, so..you did. You poured your little heart out to this kind stranger, everything that happened. Minus your crown talking to you that is, other then that everything was out. You sniffled and looked back at the lamb, your voice coming out small as you inquired about the bishops themselves. “Well..I’m married to one of them, Narinder. He and lady Heket are close in age, Leshy’s the youngest and he’s married to Myre. Then there’s Kallamar he’s the second oldest and lastly Shamura, they’re the eldest sibling and..from what I’ve heard; the most excited to see you.”

You were about to ask about Shamura when there came a big commotion, the lighthouse keepers were now all in a frenzy. Some waving their arms, some shouting, but all of them were saying the same thing…

’The bishops have come.’

————————————

[Shamura’s POV]

Visions were not a new sight for Shamura, they’ve come to expect them at this point. But to see a vision involving a new crown came as quite a shock. Still, more so when just a day after receiving such a vision, the crown appeared on the head of a ex-circus performer turned child again. Odd, but Shamura learned never to really question the crowns at this point. Besides, they’d figure that idea out when the time came. Currently they were with Leshy and Narinder, on their way towards Midas’s cave. The last known location of their newest sibling, they made note of Aym and Baal passing but simply let them be.

Heket was the first to leave the cave, her hands clenched into tight fists. “Stupid greedy prick…of all the reasons-“

She stopped short seeing her siblings. “Shamura..I’m sorry but they’re not here.” In return they simply gave a nod to her, Kallamar came up beside her. “He can’t even tell us where they might have gone! Poor little thing…where could they be?”

They all gathered a distance away from Midas’s cave, it was a nice little clearing. Narinder built a small fire while Heket pulled out some supplies to cook, no one was really hungry but it gave them something to do. They’d wrap up what was cooked and save it for later, Shamura however was more intent at staring at the fire. Watching the dancing flames as the twisted and flicked at the air around them, little embers rising and disappearing into the ether of the night. The silence hung like a shroud over them, periodically broken by Leshy grumbling and his toe-claws digging into the dirt. Some time had passed, how long was unclear but Shamura noted the sun shifted just behind the trees. All while teh silence hung…soon Leshy spoke.

“I should’ve grabbed them when I had the chance….” Shamura spared a glance at their youngest sibling, currently leaning against a tree while his toes dug into the soil. “They were right there and-“

Shamura stood, their voice as soft as spun silk and just as light. “Hush Leshy, you have nothing to be angry about. Our sibling will appear soon, we must not loose hope nor patience.” Shamura stood, with movements perfected over centuries they were at Leshy’s side. A hand resting against the middle of their back, rubbing in small circles. Yes, Shamura was aware their youngest sibling was far too old for such attention but…well old habits die hard and…Leshy wasn’t pulling away from it.

Before they could continue..they turned to see Narinder standing, rather abruptly. One moment he was sitting down almost lost in thought before jumping to his feet. “Narinder? Whats wrong?”

“Do any of you see that?” He pointed towards the tree top, peeking over, there was a faint glow emanating. Shamura stepped forward. “Yes….how..” Shamura’s voice trailed off, their body grew still before turning to Heket.

“Sister, finish what you’re doing and pack up. Kallamar, when she finishes put out the fire. We need to move quick!”

————————————

“What great timing! Wait here, I’ll be right back!” Lambert smiled, setting you back down before rushing out. You sit there…a wave of strange emotions crash into you all at once, despite that the first thing you did was stand…and walk to the lighthouse door.

You gulped down a breath before stepping outside, wincing a little from the natural sunlight but adjusted. You waddled around till you could peek just beyond the side of the lighthouse…there at the opening to ‘Pilgrim’s passage’ stood the five bishops. War, Famine, Pestilence, Chaos and Death…there they were…an oh..the twin cats were with them. All of them surrounded by the lighthouse keepers, bowing and praising them. You watched the lamb run to the god of Death, jumping into their arms. Right they…they’re together, you recalled hearing that from somewhere, odd that you didn’t see that yellow cat anywhere.

As you looked over the bishops again…your eyes suddenly locked…with the bishop of chaos..Leshy. You stared at him, he stared back. Soon you saw that familiar smile, the same one he gave you when he first saw you…only this time you didn’t run. With a slight tremble to your hand…you lifted it and gave a little wave. You half expected him to come running but instead he waved back, with both arms. Affectively hitting the bishop of pestilence in the process, it almost knocked his crown off. They turned to yell at Leshy but..noticed you, their eyes widened as they reached and grabbed the bishop closest to them. It wasn’t long before they all were staring at you…an you stared right back, unsure of what to do…

With timid steps you back up, just so you were just out of sight. What the hell do you do now?! There they were, the bishops and you’re just standing here! You inch back to look, seeing the lamb coming towards you with a bag in hand. You saw Leshy being held back by the bishop of famine for some odd reason…but you didn’t question it. The lamb knelt down, extending the bag to you.

“Here you go, crystals from Anchordeep as you requested!”

You took the bag, oooh..its heavy but you managed to drag it inside and over to the furnace. One by one you started throwing crystals into the fire, you watched as they began fusing together and bubbling towards the top. You threw in the last crystal and quickly ran outside, you watched…as it formed a beautiful prism with runes. Yes…YES IT WORKED! It worked beautifully! No more crashed ships!

…Now what?

What do you do now…t-the bishops were outside, the lighthouse is fixed…were you just suppose to go with them?!

“You ok little one?” You flinched and looked up, the lamb was beside you now. You looked away, tugging at your little fingers…you felt their hand caressing the back of your head. “It’s ok…I promise everything’s going to be ok, everyone’s been excited to see you. If you want, you can come back here anytime. Sound good?”

You stared at them…then peeked to look at the bishops who hadn’t moved from their place, the lighthouse keepers however were all ecstatic. Hopping around, cheering and chanting praise….you turned back to the lamb and said with a shaky voice that you didn’t know what you wanted to do now…you were scared…

It was a second later the lamb picked you up and hugged you, gently butting their head to yours. “I know how you feel, but trust me, little crown…you’re not alone. You have a family waiting for you just across the way, let’s go meet them.” You stared for a moment…before resting your head against their wooly chest, you gave a nod..they smiled and before you could blink…they carrying you to the bishops.

Which would’ve been ok…if not for the lighthouse keepers surrounding you, a few tried to take you out of the arms of the lamb but a look from them kept them at a distance, they all wanted to sing praise and keep you around but the lamb made it clear you were leaving with the bishops. Thankfully, Aym and Baal helped out by pushing their way through he crowd. Soon…you were face to face with the bishops.

The bishop of war was the one who approached first, kneeling down…they held out their hands to you.

“Hello little crown…I am Shamura, welcome to our family.”

End

Chapter Text

You had a decent haul this time, came across another soul on a ‘missionary’ expedition. Geez these poor idiots don’t know when to just stay away from these areas. At least they got those silly ‘protective’ charms. Today was a yellow cat with a bundle of meat an morsels, you had them tied to a tree. He was kicking and struggling as you dug through his bag, you took some morsels and a two slabs of meat. You’d smoke them later, that’d give you at least a week’s worth of food. You turned to him, he was glaring at you..no surprise there. You wrapped up your haul and grabbed the cat, dragging him towards the path.

“You won’t get away with this thief! Retribution will come for you!” Spat the yellow cat, you sighed and replied. “Thats what the last dumbass said, yet here I am doing the same damn thing. Look if ya don’t wanna get wrapped up again then avoid these obvious paths.”

Nothing against these ‘cultists’ they weren’t the murdery kind that were everywhere a few years ago, but then again these guys aren’t those guys weren’t smart either. You sighed and released your hold on their collar, they were just starting to get on their knees when you cut the rope binding their hands. Before he could react you darted off down the path an into a thicket, there was a makeshift tunnel that you could crawl through into your little hideaway.

[Three days later]

Everything…hurt…your whole body felt like it was shoved into a bag of boulders and tossed around in some random river rapids. You were struggling to get off the ground when a foot pushed you back down, coughing you looked up.

A figure with an aura so heavy it seemed to suffocate the very area around them stood over you, their face partially hidden by a black veil. From what you could see…it was a feline with fur so dark it seemed like it was made of pure ‘void’ itself. Their robe the color of soft wool streaked with vermillion..along the front and it looked like the hem of the sleeves and end was painted dipped in blood. Ember eyes were burrowing into you, scorching your flesh with invisible flames. You wheezed, trying to sit up, but their foot kept you planted. So much for easy pickings…you were forming a plan of escape in your head. Just one chance to get away, that was dashed out the window when this figure grabbed you by your collar and slammed you against a tree. Knocking whatever wind you had in your lungs out, you were trying to get some of that air back when they bound your hands.

“Be still.” Was all he said before lifting you over on to his shoulder.

As much as you wanted to ‘not’ listen and kick up a storm, the fact you were thrown around like a child’s toy made it painful to even move a finger. You groaned a curse at him but that was all you could manage. Well not quite, you yelped when you felt something swat your rear, you contorted yourself to see the cat had snagged a wooden branch and was carrying it in one hand. You screamed at him but only received another swat in response.

This couldn’t get more humiliating!

———————————

…You and your smart mouth…

By the time you arrived at the village your rear was burning worse than a campfire, every time you kicked, yelled or anything the stupid cat would strike you with that stupid branch. Worst was when you arrived it was obvious what had transpired, making those around snicker at you. Of course the moment he sat you do down you tried to run but..you made it two steps before something snagged you by the collar.

You expected the cat…instead you came face to face with…a lamb, you halted for just a brief moment at the sight. Impossible! Lambs were all but extinct…as far as you knew. But here was one, holding you by the collar of your tunic with a practiced smile. You attempted to pull away but were just yanked back, half choked and landing hard on your already sore rear.

“So, you’re the thief causing all this mischief for my cult.” You turned to the lamb, glaring at them. Oh great, one of these fanatics who started a cult…well you knew how to deal with assholes like this. You were about to spit some choice words at them..but the lamb beat you to it…by grabbing your ear and giving it a good hard tug. “Tsk, tsk, no need for such foul language little one.”

You winced, damn this lamb had a strong grip! They began dragging you to somewhere just by your ear alone, oh you were tempted to kick them but that stupid grip they had on your ear. As they dragged you along they kept talking. “Normally I’d put you in the stockades until your trial but given what I’ve learned about you, we’ve made special accommodations for you.”

“Feel honored thief.” The cat’s tone is so flat you’d think it was a well paved road to walk on. You managed to get out a curse or two at them before your ear got yanked on by the lamb. “Language thief, I understand you’re frustrated but I won’t tolerate vulgarity in my presence.”

You growled a little but chose to stay quiet, soon you were brought to a hut, only one entrance, no windows and was a little small. Despite its size it was made for one thing, holding you. Inside was a single chair..with two black cats standing on either side of it.

“Aym, Baal, be sure you keep a close eye on our little ‘guest’ till the trial if you please?” The two nodded, before you could make an escape the twin cats each grabbed one arm and yanked you inside, forcing you into the chair before binding your hands and feet to said chair. You tried to move your hands but they were stuck, you had circulation which was good but you didn’t have any room to move them. “Best you not struggle, you’re not getting out of those binds.”

You shot them both a glare…but they were right, you weren’t getting out of them…not yet anyway. You’d wait, see if there was anyway to escape. You’d learned very early on in life that cults were bad news, no matter how nice they seemed there was always an underline of danger. There was always a chance of-

“WHERE ARE THEY?!”

You nearly jumped out of your skin, someone was yelling and whoever it is, they were coming towards your location. There was no door to this hut so anyone could either walk in or see you, you were about to ask your guards who that was…you got your answer. You looked to see a green figure standing in the door way, branch like antlers, a gaping maw of razor teeth and large scars around a singular eye. If you didn’t know any better…it looked like someone tried to gouge their eye out. You flinched when that one scarred eye fell on you, it was burning with rage…for a second before dulling to a light flicker.

“What the…Aym, Baal is this the thief?” Your guards nodded, looking ready to…defend you? Odd, you’d think they’d step aside and let anyone beat you, you turned back to the green…worm? Who was staring at you before falling back into a fit of laughter. “Yer kidding me!? This is the thief?! This scrawny little thing is the one subduing all those missionaries?!”

The worm continued laughing, its mouth wide showing off those sharp teeth, yeah hard not to feel a little nervous. After a minute he finally stopped, he stood back up….towering over you. “Well, I was gonna give you a good thrashing but the Lamb would have a fit if I did.”

The worm leaned in close, his teeth glinting a mere inch from your nose…was it your imagination or did his breath smell like dirt…and camellias? “Besides, you got a trial waiting fer ya in a bit, can’t wait to see what the Lamb has planned for you.”

You were about to yell at them to back off when three more figures appeared…a frog, a squid and lastly a spider. All shuffling in behind the worm, each…baring scars of various degrees. The worm turned to them, their smile unchanging. “Guess yer popular today, meet the rest of the family and high counsel to the lamb.”

Without even asking the worm began introducing the newcomers. “This is Heket, Kallamar and Shamura, better be on your best behavior or you’ll have to tango with the likes of us.”

You were tempted to flip the bird at him but one look at those teeth made you rethink your decision, you like your fingers and would rather keep them. You flinched when the purple spider, Shamura, placed a hand under your chin. When the heck did they get there?! They held you by your chin, moving your head from side to side. You tried pulling away, why did everyone here have a strong grip?! They gave a small hum before stepping back letting squid, Kallamar look at you.

“Slight malnutrition, but retained quite a bit of muscle. Heket can handle that after the trial, depending on the verdict.” You raised an eyebrow at him but said nothing as they continued examining you, their tentacled hands staying around eye and arm level. “Hm, amazing dexterity, clear eyes, well other than the lack of nutrition and some slight dehydration they seem to be in good health.” He stepped back, replaced by the spider…Shamura again.

Just like before they gripped your chin and tilted your head up, their eyes…staring with a focus so sharp it made any dagger you had look dull. Their face held no trace of emotion for the longest time before a smile crept across their face. “You’ll be a wonderful addition to the village, let us pray the Lamb see’s fit to let you stay.”

You yanked your chin from their grasp and glare, your guards stood and with a polite gesture asked the ‘visitors’ to leave. One by one each left, single file. You weren’t sure how long you were held in that little space, though the Lamb returned the sun was setting. They entered with a wide grin, the curl at the corners of that grin has you on edge.

“Aym, Baal, escort our thief to the temple. The trial is set to start!”

——————————————

[Trial]

You’ve seen a few trials in your life and this was certainly ‘NOT’ a trial! You were sitting in the middle of a room while random people came up and spoke to the Lamb one on one. Recounting how you ‘attacked’ them, you didn’t even know half of these people! You took care in remembering each person you acutally stole from so you wouldn’t hit them twice. That was your rule, you knew none of these people- oh wait….you recognize one…it’s that yellow cat from three days ago..

“Myre, thank you for coming. Do you swear to me you shall tell only the truth of your encounter with the thief and nothing else?”

So..Myre’s their name, odd how it suited them. “Yes my Lamb. As I told you before I was coming back from my mission carrying a large quantity of meat, the thief ambushed me near the crossroads of Darkwood. They only took two bags that carried morsels, they released me when they got what they wanted and released me on one of the secure paths.”

They…were telling the truth? You half expected the yellow ca-er Myre to say something more..well damning, say how you spat at them or threatened their life. Which isn’t true but that would be the point, to paint you as a villain. Everyone else was doing that…all accept him…

“Thank you Myre…it’s good to see someone telling the truth.”

That got a reaction out of everyone in the room, those that testified with exaggerated stories were starting to fidget and finding it hard to look at you now. The lamb turned to those very individuals with a look reserved for a disappointed parent. “When I asked you all for your stories on your encounter with this ‘thief’ I was expecting the truth, not fabricated stories. I will now ask again, come and tell me your encounter with the thief and I expect the truth this time. No more fabrications!”

Ouch, even you winced with that last line. This time the group who came forward before to give their story…stayed back, a new group showed up though. These ones you remembered well, they gave the same story as Myre did. Same method, items stolen and nothing blown out of proportion. After a while the lamb raised their hand with a smile.

“Thank you, your honesty is greatly appreciated. My council, high priest and I will deliberate in my chambers. Aym and Baal will reside here watching over our little ‘friend’ while we go over the evidence an verdict.” The lamb nodded towards the two and disappeared with the others behind a door.

Those who lied about your supposed ‘attack’ on them glared at you, turning away when your guards glared back at them. The ones you did ‘attack’ just sat idly by, Myre on the other hand was staring at you. Times you considered mouthing off at them but…why did they seem concerned? Your guards were sparing glances at you from time to time, finally after what seemed like hours …the lamb reappeared with the rest of their little entourage. They approached their podium, they cleared their throat and focused their gaze on you.

“After much deliberation, we’ve come to conclusion. While you are guilty of your crimes of theft we acknowledge you acted out of survival, however this doesn’t excuse you from your misdeeds. We are also aware of your past.”

You blinked…what did they say? “We’re aware…your the soul survivor of the fire the claimed your traveling circus, the ‘Quidam Circus’ correct?” You flinched, h-how did they-

“From your reaction..I’m correct, you’ve suffered greatly and despite all that you showed mercy and compassion to those around you.” The lamb moved from the podium down to you, standing for a moment before kneeling down to meet your gaze. “You could’ve hurt everyone you stole from but instead you just took small morsels of food and ensured they were set on a safe path back to their home.” …you nodded…the lamb stood back up and turned to the crowd watching all this unfold.

“I’m choosing to give them a place here in the village, those who oppose of it speak now.”

From the corner of your eye you saw the liars opening their mouths..but hesitating, the others simply shook their heads..then Myre spoke up. “My lamb if they are going to stay what will stop them from escaping, how will you ensure they remain on the grounds?”

“We’ll handle that Myre, you don’t object to them staying then?” The lamb smiled at them, Myre shook his head. “No, given they show compassion and if I may, despite my encounter with them and in the heat of the moment I did speak of divine punishment coming for them. They did not speak ill of my faith to you, they remained silent…I hope this speaks more of their character.”

“It does, more than you can imagine.” You looked, the lamb…that smile..it was like a smile you saw at funerals when one was recalling a memory of a loved one..

“Let’s not waste time now…Shamura, Kallamar if you please.” Your two guards, Aym and Baal walked to the podium, replaced by Shamura and Kallamar. They untied you but given their extra limbs it prevented you from fighting back. You did try of course but…damn their grips were strong despite their looks.

Instead of being bound to the chair your hands and feet were bound instead, then tied together forcing you to kneel on the ground. You looked around, Heket and Leshy were walking around you…dragging sticks with chalk along the ground. Looking back to the lamb, they were taking a small bowl from their priest. They proceeded back to you, Kallamar held your head up and still while the lamb dipped their finger into the bowl..and began painting something on your forehead. Humming as they finished, they handed the bowl to Heket, clapped their hands. That got Kallamar and Shamura to let go of you, but before you could do anything….the floor beneath you began to glow.

You screamed when long black wisps emerged from the ground, you thrashed on the ground to get away but the wisps grabbed hold of you. Wrapping around you, they gripped your head and forced you to look at the lamb….their eyes now a deep crimson, dripping blood, chanting in a voice you could only describe as demonic. They stepped towards you…their hands outstretched…..before reaching and cupping your face in their hands.

The last thing you saw were those blood filled eyes…..the last thing you heard though….was the lambs voice….

“Your rebirth…starts today.”

The world went black.

————————————————————

Everything felt off, that was the first thing you noticed. Everything was still dark sure but you could feel what was around you, slowly out of the corners of your mind you started to become aware again. You felt….ok focus, what could you move…you wiggled a toe. Ok so you could do that, then your fingers…which gave you more information…you were laying on something very soft.

It…was bedding, yes, bedding! You have a blanket too, oh goodness it was so warm and it smelled amazing! You never had such-….w-wait…why do you have this? Ok, you know your laying in a bed with some..admittedly nice things but…why? You dug into your memories to try and remember. You were caught, put on trial…then…oh…w-were you dead? You tested it by bitting your lip a little, nope, alive cause dead don’t feel pain.

You soon became aware of sounds around you, from what you could gather…it was a conversation. Something about..silk and dinner plans…wait…you recognize one of the voices…it was the lamb! O-ok don’t panic, maybe you could get some information if you stayed calm. You somehow managed to turn over on your side, everything was still dark-…your eyes were still closed…geez what was wrong with you?

You hesitated but began opening your eyes, the first thing that greeted you was a grid pattern and the faint silhouette of the lamb..sitting in a rocking chair. Knitting needles in their hooves as they work on something.

“The last batch should be ready by morning, so we’ll have plenty to make heavier clothing for when winter comes. Myre has already asked Forneus if she has blueprints for a loom.”  The lambs voice was bouncing around..you blinked…was your vision messed up or-

Something touched your head, making you flinch. It was chilled but smooth, it felt kinda nice. You felt it brush back your bangs…then came another voice…Kallamar. “Ah our little one is awake!”

You saw the lamb jump up. “Oh good! I was worried that I might’ve overdid it!”

The world suddenly spun, one moment you were lying down, the next moment you were in the lambs arms. W-wait…how the hell did they get so big! Finally your body and mind were awake, you were staring back at the lamb, now far larger than before. You struggled to look around the room, finally your eyes caught a mirror and your reflection…the lamb wasn’t giant.

YOU WERE A BABY!

Chapter Text

You thrashed, kicked, you were gonna fight your way free- well at least try! It was..kinda working and kinda not. The only thing you managed to do was free yourself from the blanket you were wrapped in. But the Lamb had a firm grip on you, you were set down on something and before you could do anything…something was pushed into your mouth and your hands were clasped. Looking down…it was a pacifier and the Lamb had your hands tightly.

“Please settle down…we’ll explain everything…” you stared at them, their eyes pleading….slowly you bobbed your head up and down. The Lamb gave a sighing ‘baa’ before smiling, the released your hands and turned to grab a chair nearby. You took note of the room…and the other occupants.

There was Leshy, that yellow cat Myre, Heket, Kallamar, Shamura and….the high priest who currently had his back to you. Fiddling with something at a nearby table, Shamura coming up beside him. Kallamar was sitting in a chair, while Heket, Leshy and Myre were idling against a wall…staring at you. You couldn’t help but notice how close Myre was standing to Leshy…and it was impossible to ignore how his tail was wrapped around Leshy’s. The Lamb came back, sitting across from you with their hands folded…they looked more like a parent about to tell a child about the ‘facts of life’ rather than give an explanation.

“Alright, first off…yes you’re not the same now, you’ve been regressed. But! But..theres an explanation for that.” You crossed your arms and glared….bad move cause that just made the Lamb coo at you. “Oh don’t you look precious?!”

Before you knew it the Lamb had your face squished in their hands, nuzzling your nose to theirs. They stopped when their priest tapped them on the shoulder. “Lamb, please restrain yourself till after discussion.”

“Whoops! Ahem, my apologies sometimes I can’t help myself. So the reason for your ‘physical’ regression is for a few reasons. One being to keep you from running away, two is the main one and that is to deter any of our followers from harming you. Despite what you might think no one here would harm a child and lastly…this seemed like a fitting punishment for attacking my missionaries.” You threw up your hands and motioned to your body, demanding to know how this was a ‘fitting’ punishment?!

The priest answered this time. “Given your attitude right now and your disregard for others it’s safe to say why.” You were so tempted to curse at him right then and there, but the pacifier put that to a halt.

…That and the glare that priest was giving was definitely making you reconsider that idea, the Lamb raised a hand and gave a little wave. “Sorry about him, he tends to speak his mind a lot- OH my goodness I never introduced you two! Little one, this is my high priest…and beloved husband Narinder.”

You stared at them, well thats good to know. You looked down and noticed something that made you blush, you were wearing a diaper! You glare and motion to it, the lamb gave a awkward smile. “Well…despite your mind being spared everything of your body was regressed…”

The Lamb trailed off, you didn’t need to hear the rest, you groan…how could this have happened. What could possibly be worse than this?! You flinched as the Lamb picked you up, they rested you against their chest. “Now don’t take this as a bad thing, consider this a fresh start! You got a safe place to sleep now, you won’t have to worry about food and since your mind is intact you still have the freedom to think for yourself and to reflect on your actions.”

You blinked up at them but turned away, not really sure how to respond to that. Your thoughts were interrupted by a hand resting on your head, for a moment you thought it was the Lamb till you looked up, Shamura was standing next to the both of you and smiling.

“It is a blessing little one, but perhaps dear Lamb we should explain more then their…current form.”

“Oh right! You see little one your aware now that your body is that of an infant which means you’ll need care, its why each day one of us shall watch over you and tend to your care.” They tilted their head, motioning to the others in the room. “We’ll set up little schedule where one of us watches you for the day! Each day you’ll have chores to do that you can handle, however we also have rules for you that will be shown to the other members of the cult. But we’re sharing it with you now so you’re aware.”

You pushed against the Lambs chest to look at them, a slight glare to your gaze…but you decided to listen. The Lamb smiled. “For starters, no one outside of myself and my council is allowed to discipline you however that doesn’t give you free reigns to bully my followers. Further more if you cause any problems or choose to harass my congregation, discipline will be given. Depending on the incident your punishment will vary, now on to the rules. No cursing, no back talking, you will show respect, when with any of my council you will follow their lead, unless your defending yourself you will not raise your fists at anyone, use your words first. Further more when the sun sets you are to return to my personal tent where you will sleep, Narinder and I will watch over you at night.”

Your glare didn’t leave, you reached and tried to pull out the pacifier but the Lamb tapped it with one finger before motioning you to wait. “If you’re wondering how long you’re going to remain in this form…I’m afraid you’ll be staying here until your body re-grows into your adult body once again.”

…..What did they say?! You grabbed their fleece to shake them but…you were only moving yourself, you let go, despite the pacifier you began to hyperventilate. Y-you’re stuck as an infant till you regrow back into an adult?! All cause you stole food from some travelers?!? How was this fair, how was this right, how could they think of something so damn twisted-

You flinched…hearing something akin to a hiccup escape your lips and the pacifier, tears streaming down your face. You looked at the Lamb, their eyes….despite not wishing to they met your gaze. They adjusted you, laying you down in their lap with your head propped up with one arm while the other held both your hands. You watched the Lamb close their eyes…and take a deep, measured breath in…you weren’t sure if it was due to the shock or what…but you copied the motion. You both exhaled in unison, you repeated this one more time before the Lamb sat you upright in their lap.

“There now…I’m aware thats not ideal for you but it’s how we’re doing this. I didn’t want to do the alternative which was….well the stockades and….” They trailed off, looking at anything but at you. That was when you started shaking..you forgot this is a ‘cult’ and you saw first hand what cults do to people who steal from them. You could feel your breathing start to rise again but it was halted when the Lamb rested their hand on your chest. “Easy, easy…I didn’t mean anything like that, some of my followers tend to take things into their hands and end up doing stupid things. One of those things being serving someone grassy gruel or throwing rocks at them.”

You still had some trembling going through you, well that didn’t sound bad but you knew better. They were probably sugar coating the real reason…fresh tears started to form. But something warm and soft dabbed them away, you turned to see….Narinder, his sleeve pulled over his hand like a makeshift handkerchief. Then in one motion took you from the Lamb’s arms and into his own.

“Enough of that, consider yourself lucky that the Lamb is showing you mercy despite your actions. The Lamb has also shown you have the potential to change for the better, consider this like a fresh start…or an adoption if you’re feeling poetic.” You blinked at him, he carried you over to the table he previously was standing by. You saw…a bottle of milk along with camellia flowers, he removed the pacifier, picked up the bottle and gave it to you.

You scowled and pushed it away but seemed the priest was not in any mood for your antics, he took the bottle and with a little gentle force pushed the end of the bottle into your mouth. You tried to push it away again, but your body had other plans. Almost on instinct you began to suckle, it…was fresh camellia milk…you couldn’t stop and despite your mind telling you not to your arms reached and tried to grab the bottle back. You watched a smirk appear at the corner of the cat’s mouth, oh you hate that..but they let you have the bottle. It’s not long before you emptied the bottle of its contents..your body becoming almost weighted down.

“Now that you’re settled down…we can get to next bit.” You blinked slowly at him…what did he mean by that?

The Lamb jumped up and clapped their hands. “Right! Shamura mind helping?”

“I don’t mind, this will be quite interesting.” They walked to the table and picked something up…it was a slip of paper with odd runes on it, they handed the slip to the Lamb.

You watched…as the Lamb closed their eyes…they began whispering something, as they whispered the runes on the slip of paper began to glow. You blinked as the runes began slithering over the paper, it started to grow and twist…forming a coiling band. It stretched to a degree before each end met and fused. At the point of fusion…it opened forming an odd shape…it almost looked like an eye. When the shape took form Shamura slipped a vermillion gem into the slot of the shape. You swore…the gem was staring at you, the next thing you knew that item was placed on your head. Fitting snuggly round your head, the Lamb let out a long breath before opening their eyes.

“There…all done!” You slowly blink and look at the Lamb, but Kallamar stepped forward. “Well done Lamb, well little one this little crown will ensure you stay in the compound.” He said that while poking your nose with one of his many tentacles. Soon, Leshy, Myre and Heket all joined in cooing over you and this stupid crown…

This was going to be hell…

Chapter Text

Your first night was…awkward but not bad, having to be bathed by someone else wasn’t ideal but at the same time..it felt wonderful to have a ‘real’ bath again. With warm water no less, your baths up till now were short shallow dips in rivers just to clean off the dirt and those were just for your feet and hands. On top of the bath, were your new clothes, a sleeping gown, a small robe and then some. You were given a little red tunic like the other followers, however with every up there was a down…for starters you quickly discovered that the Lamb was right about the diaper…

You also had to sleep in a crib, hell the Lamb even had a bassinet ready for you in their private tent! Sleeping in that crib was humiliating, degrading and-….sooo comfy! You hated to admit it but the crib and bassinet were the warmest and coziest things you got to sleep in, you couldn’t recall the last time you slept in any actual bed. The only bed you had was the ground and your only source of warmth was your campfires. Though you woke up feeling damp…the feeling wasn’t the only thing that woke you up…the Lamb was stroking your head.

“Wakey, wakey my little one, the sun has risen to start a new day.”

Ugh…you lifted your hand to swat away the Lamb, but you only hand enough energy to lift your arm…before it plopped back down to your side. You felt the Lamb’s hands around your sides and turned you over, you winced when you felt something..damp against your rear..then your heart sank realizing what that feeling was. You flinched when those same hands around your sides; lifted you with gentle ease.

“Oop! Looks like someone’s ready for a diaper change, c’mon let’s clean you up!”

Before you could process what was going on, you were lying flat on a soft mat on the ground. Already the Lamb was removing your solid garments and tossing them into a wicker bin in the corner. They dipped a cloth into a little bowl of water and started cleaning your lower half, you blushed but couldn’t really do much about it. Before you knew it they had you dried off, sprinkled crushed talcum on you and wrapped a clean diaper around you then fastening it.

“There we go, all clean and ready for the day!” You were put into a little red tunic before escorted out into the morning light. You winced from the sudden burst of light but quickly adjusted, the village was already bustling with activity and people running to and fro. Some carrying baskets, others hauling tools and what not, many were just praying in front of a giant statue of the Lamb…what the heck was this place?!

Soon you came to large plots of land, all tended to by followers. Two of which you recognized rather quickly, Leshy and Myre. They were- oh for goodness sake they were making out by shed! The Lamb gave a little titter before calling out to them. “Hey you two, save that for your hut or at the very least the mating tent!”

You saw Myre jump almost out of his fur but Leshy just turned and kinda looked like he was ready to flip the Lamb off till he saw you. His anger dried up and a smile appeared, showing off those sharp teeth again.

“HA! We get the kiddo today?! Shoulda told us sooner Lamb!” Leshy ran up and plucked you from the Lamb’s arms, in a blink you were on his hip.

The Lamb cleared their throat. “Easy Leshy, yes you and Myre are taking them for the day but you better give them the rundown of the farmlands and…the other thing we talked about.”

“We will my Lamb, you can count on us.” Said Myre, bowing his head and patting your head..but then paused. “My Lamb you gave them breakfast right?”

“Oh shoot no I didn’t!” Huh…yeah you forgot about breakfast, given your..changing this morning you it slipped your mind; you turned hearing Myre give a chuckle. “Don’t worry my Lamb, I have a bottle ready for them now and we can grab some porridge by the cook station.”

If you didn’t know it you’d swear Leshy had hearts in his eyes right now staring at Myre right now, the Lamb sighed with a smile. “Thank you Myre, ok my little one you be good for them!”

They then gave you a peck on the head before scampering off, disappearing into a crowd of followers. You blinked, did…they just kiss your head and call you their little one? Speaking of kiss, another one was planted on your temple by Leshy before he adjusted you on his hip with just a bounce.

“Alright let’s grab some food, then we can get to chores!” Said Leshy as he started off for the cook station, Myre following right beside him. You got quite a lot of stares from the followers, a large majority just cooing at you…but you did spot a few faces who just glared at you. Yep, the same people who lied about your ‘attack’ on them, not sure what their problem was but didn’t matter. Your thoughts changed though when a pleasant smell reached your nose, it was fresh baked bread…huh..never thought you’d ever smell that again. You saw the station being run by Heket and two other followers, a rabbit and otter. The rabbit was mashing berries while the otter was stirring a big pot of…something. You couldn’t tell what it was till Heket started ladling its contents into a bowl, a creamy, almost milky content…oh it’s porridge. Right, Leshy mentioned something about grabbing some.

“Morning sister Heket, brother Raha, brother Knox!” Called Myre, the three turned towards him, Heket gave a small nod but the rabbit and otter waved. “Mornin’ brother Myre, saved ya a bowl!”

“Whatcha save me?!” Leshy growled with a smile, Heket handed over a bowl…with something floating in the milky mixture. “Had some morsels left over, figured you would eat it.”

Heket’s voice was kinda hoarse, like someone recovering from laryngitis. She looks at you and gives a smirk, handing Myre two bowls. “One’s got milk others got berries.”

“Thanks Heket!” Said Myre taking the bowls, you noticed Raha and Knox staring at you. Not the ‘oh its that thief’ stare it was more of the ‘awe its the new baby’ stare. Eyes glittering, soft smiles and hands gripping their utensils like they were lifelines. Leshy and Myre said their goodbyes to Heket and her assistance…but not before she reached over and pinched your cheek with those thick fingers of hers. It was a feather pinch if you had to describe it, gave it a little tug an wiggle before letting go with a smirk. You mustered a glare before being whisked away, the three of you sat down on a nearby grassy hill. Leshy sat you down first before taking a seat to your right, Myre took your left. Yeah, you knew this routine, keep the kid where you could easily grab them if they tried getting up to run. You wanted to roll your eyes but instead just went straight for your food, but…you were having trouble holding your spoon.

“Here pumpkin let me.” Cooed Myre as the took the spoon from your hand, you tried to take it back but you had the strength of wet tissue paper. He scooped out a spoonful and held it to your mouth. “Ok, open up darling!”

You turned your head, only for your stomach to growl at you…relenting you turned your head back and opened your mouth..and in went the spoon. “There you go! See this isn’t so bad.” You wanted to say something but..ugh that porridge tasted so damn good! You opened your mouth again and the pattern repeated, up until the bowl was empty. You assumed that was the end of it but the moment Myre sat the bowl aside Leshy hoisted you into his lap and popped a bottle into your mouth. You flinch but start suckling, glaring at Leshy in the meantime.

“Guess this’d be a good time to talk about yer chores today, we’re keepin’ it simple. You’re helping us pull weeds, plant seeds, water some plants and thats about it.” Said Leshy, you rolled your eyes…didn’t seem that bad till you looked at Myre who was giving Leshy a look. “Honey you’re forgetting something.”

“No I’m not.” He said that a little too fast you noticed, you stared at him but he continued to smile…Myre on the other hand, his eyes got steely. “Leshy…what are you up to?”

“Only way they learn is by example, let them-“ before Leshy could finish a spoon flew into his mouth, Myre being the one holding it of course. “I know what yer doing ya silly excuse of a worm, if yer not gonna tell them then I will. Now eat your breakfast.”

Leshy gave a grin before handing you over to Myre in exchange for his breakfast, you were nestled in the crook of his arm as he held the bottle for you. “So, besides chores the Lamb wants us to discuss…other things with you. First off is..well rules.”

You were half way through the bottle now, but kept listening, giving a nod for him to continue. “First off, each day you’ll be with someone different and they’ll have their own chores for you. Today is Leshy and I but to the point, we’ll each have rules unique to us however there’s a main set you are not to cross.”

Myre pulled the bottle away, sitting you up and patted your back, earning a ‘burp’ in return from you.  Your face flushed red, Myre just smiled while Leshy chuckled. “Good one but I can do better.”

Myre gave him a side-eye but turned you to face him. “Main rules, no leaving the village without one of the disciples meaning Leshy, Heket, Kallamar, Shamura or the high priest Narinder an Lamb, further more you may have special privileges being under the Lamb’s guidance but like they’ve mentioned before that doesn’t give you free reign to do whatever you want. That being bossing other followers around, they’re not allowed to mess with you yes, but in that same token you’re not allowed to mess with them back, further more you are to show everyone respect. While no follower like myself is allowed to punish you; the disciples, high priest and Lamb will.”

Ok, simple enough, don’t act like a brat…you suddenly felt Leshy poke your cheek. “That said, break these rules and depending on how bad you break them the punishment will match.”

….You didn’t like the sound of that, you heard about cults and their ‘punishments’. You felt your body tense up, Myre; sensing it was quick to start rubbing your back. “Easy darling, the punishments aren’t as bad as you think. Look if you start saying curse words at people you’ll sit with a lemon in your mouth, back-sassing too much and it’s a time out….for bigger punishments well-“

“Yer dragged to the nearest empty shack an go over someone’s knee. Plain and simple.” You turned to Leshy, who was now pouring the contents of his bowl into his gaping maw. Did…did he just say-

Myre sighed. “Yes…as my love said so ‘colorfully’ you’ll be dealing with a spanking but again it’s only when absolutely nessesary and no one but the disciples, high priest or the Lamb are allowed to are to carry out ‘that’ punishment. At the same time they’ll look heavily into the situation first before acting on any decisions such as that. The Lamb wants to avoid any foul play…considering what happened at the trial of course. Now that being said there is one more punishment and that is a basic grounding for a period of time, that can be a punishment alone or happen after a spanking. But rest assured…your life here will be joyful and filled with nothing but peace.”

“Speak for yourself~” You watched as Leshy wrapped an arm around Myre’s waist and pulled them close, you along with. They planted a big kiss on their cheek before burying their face into the soft yellow neck fur causing Myre to squeak and giggle. “L-Leshy stop that! Not in front of the child!”

You stared…this kinda reminded you of- stop! They’re gone, the circus is gone…this was just two really…’affectionate’ followers thats all! You squirmed to get out of their grasp but Myre had a tight grip on you.

Leshy finally spoke up. “Guess someone’s in that ‘grownups kissing is gross’ category, heh alright c’mon let’s get ta work!” You blinked, you hadn’t finished your bottle yet…oh wait yeah you did. Myre picked you up and sat you up on his shoulder before following Leshy to the farmlands. You had both arms wrapped around Myre’s head to keep steady…movement and heights shouldn’t be a problem to you but now…ugh they were….

It wasn’t too long before he stopped and plopped you down, you looked over rows of dirt where followers were currently planting seeds. You flinched when something was placed on your head…you looked up to see the brim of a straw hat. Next thing was a small watering can placed in your hands, Myre was adjusting your hat before guiding you right over to some mounds.

“Ok pumpkin, just gonna have you water these seeds then we can go and pick some vegetables. Just follow Leshy’s lead.” You turned to Myre as he handed you a tiny watering can, he proceeded to guide you over to Leshy.

“Just water where I point, kay?”

You puffed out some air through your nose and nodded, he stood up and walked over to dry patches and as stated, pointed to them. So you followed, dousing the dry dirt till it was comfortably saturated, this process repeated for about a good few hours….in all honesty you didn’t notice time had passed. You were more focused on your chore to care, what got your attention was the sound of a bell…a temple bell.

“Morning sermons! Everyone, gather at the temple!” You blinked, turning to see everyone setting down their tools and proceeding towards the sound of the ringing bell.

Myre was setting down his rake before walking over to you and Leshy, who was crouched down over a plot of land, digging a few more holes. “Leshy, c’mon ya know the drill.”

“Don’ wanna..”

“Leshy~ one sermon isn’t gonna hurt, besides the Lamb wants the little one to attend.” You watched as Leshy stood up, acting like had weights in his pockets. Myre though had you up in one arm and hooked his other arm with Leshy’s. It wasn’t long before you came the source of the bell ringing….a massive temple stood sentinel seemingly over all of the compound. Inside…was even more impressive, ascetics of black and reds were everywhere. Followers lined up in rows to listen to the Lamb preach, you, thankfully were hanging out near the back with Myre and Leshy. You noticed Narinder standing by the podium, when the Lamb took their place they moved aside just two steps..

The Lamb was preaching about the great beyond, how one must morn but not dwell on the past or something..you weren’t really listening. In fact you were…kinda dozing off, you hadn’t noticed you were leaning against Leshy till he put his arm around you. You didn’t bother pushing it away…it made a good blanket. Before you could get comfortable you heard the Lamb call out to Leshy…asking him to bring you up to the podium. You flinched, shaking your head but after a minute Leshy was hoisting you up into his arms and heading for the podium.

Every eye was on you, oh how you wished some large hole would open and swallow you! He walked up to the steps leading to the podium before handing you over to Narinder. You watched as Leshy trudged back to his seat, looking like some kid who had to give up a toy. Narinder straightened up and held you against his chest, returning to his spot by the Lamb.

“My flock…as you know we’ve welcomed a new addition to our fold! As you can see, my disciples, high priest and I have performed a miracle on the ‘thief’ here.” They waved a hand to you, in turn you buried your face into the closest thing available..Narinder’s chest. “Their body is that of a toddler but they have retained their adult mind, reason is as both punishment and repenitence. They have committed crimes yes.. but said crimes were done out of survival. For that, we found it to be a fitting punishment…and..a chance for change.”

You refused to look at the Lamb or out at the crowd, but you could hear the whispers of the followers..the Lamb continued. “You see my flock…there was something in their eyes I saw, something I saw only once before. It was small, like the flame on a candle…delicate and frail…a hint of hope. Something that must be saved, not snuffed out. Despite what had been done..they showed compassion, they showed restraint, kindness even. Brother Myre even spoke how the little one refused to say cruel things of me despite being warned of my ‘retribution’. They held their tongue…they showed respect.”

More muttering…still you refused to look, however..you blinked feeling Narinder’s hand rub small circles in your back.

“It is why we chose this method, give them a chance to change for the better…who knows…perhaps this could be the beginning of something grand for them. However..let me make this very….’very’ clear.” You flinched, one moment the Lambs voice felt like the beams of sunlight coming through the stain-glass windows…now it was colder then a frozen over river. “While I’m aware many of you still have grievances with our newest addition to the flock, they are apart of this family now. More importantly…they are under the protection of my disciples, my beloved high priest..and myself. Any harm done on to them out of malice shall face serious consequences. Any questions?”

Silence.

This time you looked to see many eyes were looking anywhere but at the Lamb, you tried to look around at the rest of the ‘flock’ but Narinder turned your face back towards him. He gave a slight shake of his head before turning back to the Lamb..

Their voice returning to that bright tone again. “Great! I hope you all will love and cherish them as much as the other children here, Narinder you can return our little one back to Leshy.”

Narinder didn’t say anything, just walked back to Leshy and handed you over to him. Well..if you could call it that, you were snatched out of his hands and plopped right into Leshy’s lap. His arms wrapped around you like a child protecting their favorite toy. Soon the sermon continued as normal and just like that..it ended, everyone got up and began shuffling out into the afternoon sun. You were more than happy to leave, Leshy was just about to cross the threshold of the church doors with you on his hip when the Lamb called out.

“Leshy, it’s noon just to let you know!”

“Yeah, yeah I’m aware. I’ll take care of it.” Leshy shouted over his shoulder.

…Take care of what? That’s what you wanted to ask but before you could you felt Myre place a kiss on your head. “Have a nice nap sweetie, I’ll see you guys later.”

“See ya love, hey make sure those idiots don’t plant the radish’s in the wrong plots again!”

Myre laughed as he jogged off. “I will, don’t worry!”

You blinked..what did they mean by ‘nap’ did they seriously think you’d just-….was it your imagination or did you suddenly feel a little tired? Leshy adjusted you a bit before walking twoards the Lamb’s tent, giving the explanation. “Yeah, the Lamb has this one rule with all of us. When it’s noon you gotta go down for a nap. No excuses, yeah your probably gonna say that your too old for these ‘naps’ but its not out of punishment.”

You remained silent, what else could the reason be? Leshy continued. “The spell the Lamb used requires a lot of energy not just from themself but those involved. Since we disciples have been doing this for so long we just need a good nights rest to regain our energy, however with you having almost no skills and capacity to do magic you need a lot of time to recover. Thats why the Lamb ordered that every noon you’re to be put down for a hour or so nap.”

Ok, you were now sure they were doing this to embarrass you. You tried to push out of his arms, you weren’t even-…ok maybe you were tired but that was cause of the stupid sermon, it was soooo boring! But try as you could you’re still lead back to the Lamb’s tent and tucked into the bassinet, all the while growling how this was undignified.

“Yeah, keep whining; just proves the Lamb’s point.” Leshy was tucking the blankets around your legs…the very..soft, sweet smelling blankets. He adjusted the pillow behind your head…the…was it a pillow? Felt more like a cloud..

He brought up a stool and sat down, you looked to see Leshy grab a book from the Lamb’s table before reaching over to rock the bassinet. As much as you wanted to fight it…you were starting to lose this battle. Your eyes grew heavier with each minute, before long your eyes closed and you drifted into a rather…much needed nap.

—————————————————

You woke up to a conversation, the tone was light, casual even. You made out Leshy’s voice right away, talking about crops, mulch and a weird stint about ‘compost heaps’…whatever that is. You assumed that he was talking to the Lamb, however the voice that came wasn’t the Lamb..it’s Narinder.

“The Lamb is aware, they’ve made plans to get everything your husband needs. Pretty sure Pilgrims Passage has a few of those things. How’s the little one doing with the adjustment so far, been kinda curious.” You kept your body still, you shared the same sentiment.

You heard Leshy yawning before replying. “So far they’ve behaved, but it’s only been a day. Give it a week an they’ll be planning escapes, kinda hoping for that. It’s been so boring round here and maybe they’ll give us something to do.”

Narinder gave a sigh that sounded as natural as a breath. “The Lamb wants to avoid that Leshy, the whole point is to give them a better life. Besides having them around should be enough entertainment for everyone. However…let me make this clear, their not here to be your ‘entertainment’ their here-“

“To start a new life, I know already..geez, the Lamb’s got you wrapped around more than their finger huh?”

“An what, pray-tell, does that mean little brother?”

You heard Leshy give a knowing chuckle. “C’mon Nari, we all know you and the Lamb are-“ you assumed he was making a gesture…ok time to ‘wake up’ cause you didn’t want to hear the response.

Sitting up proved to be a bit of a challenged but the small groan made them go quiet before you turned over a little on to your side. You opened your eyes slowly, Leshy was still sitting on that stool but Narinder was standing opposite of him. Leshy stood and reached down to pick you up, you felt like a bag soaked in a river.

“Well, someone’s up. Sleep well kiddo?” Leshy smirked as your head flopped against his shoulder. In all honesty you wanted to keep sleeping…then you shivered feeling…damp. Before you could register why, you were laying back down on a changing mat.

Continuing their conversation. “You know what I mean ‘brother’. Why not put a ring on that Lamb and be done with it, hell yer sharing a tent with them!”

“We may share a tent but that doesn’t-“ Leshy cut him off. “It means yer one step away from marriage so just do it already!”

Ugh this was getting annoying, Leshy was finishing cleaning you up. Wrapping the diaper around you before standing you back up and dusting you off. Still he continued “Its not like the Lamb isn’t interested, pretty sure all those little ‘gifts’ they give you are proof enough they’re ready.”

Narinder reached to pull his hood over his had. “It’s to raise devotion-“ Leshy butted in “I call bullshit on that, your more devoted then-“

“Leshy, refrain from swearing please.” You turned, in walked the Lamb holding a basket. “Just came to check in on our little one. Seems you had a good nap!” You rolled your eyes, typical thing to say.

“They’ve probably heard worse, anyway they’re up. Gonna get them some grub and back to work-“ Leshy was about to leave with you, only for the Lamb to raise a hand. “Actually Leshy, I was hoping to talk to you in private for a moment. Narinder can you take the little one for a moment?”

Narinder just gave a small nod before hoisting you into his arms, without another word the two of you left and moved towards the kitchen station again. There Heket was serving a few of the followers while Raha and Knox were cleaning some bowls in a nearby washbasin. She turned back to start stirring a large pot when Narinder called out to her.

“Heket, one small bowl of stew please.” She turned and gave a bit of a sneer, it changed when she laid eyes on you though. “How come you got the kid, did Leshy mess up already?” Heket asked while pouring the ladle of stew into a bowl.

“No, the Lamb wanted a private audience with them. They’re doing that for all the disciples so be ready to have Raha and Knox hold down the kitchen for a short while.” Heket stared at him for a moment before giving a nod and handing him a bowl, a plate of cooked fish and a bottle. With a nod Narinder took you and the food to a small patch of grass, he sat you down first before handing you the bowl. You looked inside, it was a simple meat stew with beets, cauliflower and chunks of pumpkin. Your previous life didn’t give you the luxury of being picky a that stuck with you, despite the fact you were not a fan of cauliflower…you still ate it anyway.

Though trying to hold the bottle by yourself proved to be a challenge, the bowl was light enough to hold with both hands and then some but for some reason holding the bottle up was too much. You heard a chuckle and saw Narinder was watching you struggle, you grumbled under your breath and kept trying. Only to give up a second later and shove the bottle away.

“Now don’t go throwing a tantrum cause you don’t wanna ask for help, now come here.” He reached over, plucked you and the bottle up and settled you in his lap. He sat crosslegged and while eating with one hand, held the bottle with the other. You glared but…proceeded to drink from it. You were halfway finished with it when Myre walked up, eyebrows pinched.

“Hey…brother Narinder where’s-“

“The Lamb is having a chat with him about some matters, he’ll be along shortly.”

Myre blinked then sighed. “What did he do this time?”

“Nothing, just discussing some disciple matters..mostly about some areas around Darkwood.” You started to zone out of their conversation, continuing to drink your milk. You flinched when the bottle was taken from you, for a brief moment you felt a pang of annoyance but..only for it to disappear when you saw the bottle was empty. Narinder propped you up into a sitting position, gave your back four well placed pats earning him a burp..and blush from you, he then promptly handed you to Myre.

“Leshy will be done with the Lamb soon, till he gets here you’re in charge.” With that said Narinder stood, bowed and left. Leaving you with Myre..and confused.

Myre smiled and rubbed your back. “He’s a busy individual, c’mon let’s finish up. Just got one last chore to do and we’re done!”

Well that was something..he walked you back to the fields, on went the hat but this time he handed you a tiny pail and lead you to a small plot. You made out the plants, beet root and radishes and lots of tiny leaves around…

“Ok, see these little sprouts here? These are weeds, pull the ones around here and round the radish plants.” Myre pointed to the little sprouts. Yep, you thought as much. Oh well, you nodded; knelt down and began plucking the little weeds and tossing them into the pail.

You didn’t want to admit it but..you found this kind of relaxing, a simple chore…no one to bug you while you did this. You weren’t sure how much time passed, you were too wrapped up in your task to notice…that is until you felt a hand touch your back. You jumped a little before looking up, Myre standing over you with a wide grin. “Hey, just came to check on you. Wow you got this patch all cleared!”

Huh..looking around you did see that the patch you had was clear now, you slowly got back to your feet and brushed off the dirt of your hands and knees. Before you could say anything, Myre took your hat and sat it to the side. He took out a rag and wiped your face. “Great job pumpkin, chores are done so you got the rest of the day for yourself!”

Well now THAT sounded great, you couldn’t wait to get some time alone…at least thats what you thought before Leshy came back. “Hey babe! Havin fun without me huh?”

“Always, we just finished pulling the weeds round here.” Said Myre as he handed you to Leshy. “Great! C’mon kiddo, we’re gonna take a walk!”

——————————————

[Bedtime]

“I’m so happy to hear you were so well behaved today!” The Lamb was currently getting you ready for bed, another bath, teeth cleaned and yet another bottle…which currently you were suckling on, the two of you sitting on their bed.

“Myre told me how you helped with the watering, weeding and all without fuss! I knew you’d make the best of this!” The Lamb continued to gush about Leshy’s report on you, you tried your best to ignore it and just focus your milk.

Leshy took you on a walk around the compound-er.. whatever they called this place, pointing out different things like homes, fountains, decorations and other junk like that. What stuck out to you the most is how explicit he was on certain places, the confession booth and oddly a pink tent. He was ‘very’ clear on you not going anywhere near that pink tent, when he wasn’t looking you rolled your eyes. You could spot a mating tent a mile away, didn’t take a genius to know what it was for anyway. But you kept it to yourself, the Lamb continued chatting while you finished your bottle. When the bottle was empty the Lamb took it and patted you back, you gave a small burp before settling down into your crib. It was about that time Narinder entered the tent.

“Welcome back Nari! How was the bathhouse?” The Lamb seemed extra cheery when Narinder was around…huh you forgot this place had a bathhouse.

Narinder gave a small yawn before answering. “Fine, a tad crowded but thats to be expected.” He walked behind a small partition in the corner of the tent, you saw his cloak get draped over the top before he stepped out..in a red follower tunic and pants the color of dirt’n moss.

He slowly sat on the edge of the bed opposite of the Lamb before swinging his legs up and laying down, you watched the Lamb smile and lean down to give him a peck on the cheek before taking you over to a crib just two steps away from the bed, they tucked you into the cloudy bedding. You noticed Narinder watching you and the Lamb with that third eye of his.

“Why not put them in the bassinet?” Narinder asked, not bothering to turn his head. “I’ve told you Nari, bassinets are for nap time, cribs are for bedtime. When it’s your turn to put them to bed you can decide, sound fair?” Narinder gave a small nod before closing his third eye.

You wanted to say something but…ugh you were too tired, the milk, the chores and not to mention the…rather nice dinner you had made you downright sleepy. The lamb noticed an so proceeded to tuck you in, they gave you one last peck on the cheek before wishing you a good night.

Chapter Text

Alright, checklist in your head. Your tour with Leshy around the compound gave you a decent layout of the land. You managed to fight off sleep and wait till the Lamb and Narinder were asleep before climbing out of the crib. You cursed at how weak your arms are, you couldn’t even lift yourself up far but you managed. You timed your movements to when the Lamb or Narinder snored or made a sleepy mutter, the ground was dirt so making a quiet exit was easy. You shivered when the night air hit you, especially around your legs but..biting your lip you moved towards the entrance of the compound.

Now…do you use the portal or head right out into the crossroads and risk going back to one of those hellscapes….you decided to try the portal. You looked around, other then the stray fireflies floating and the spiders, no living soul was up. Tackling the stairs up to the portal ring was a workout but you pressed on…you were just to the last step when something grabbed the back of your collar and hoisted you up.

Staring right at you….was the Narinder, his third eye staring right through your head.

“I was hoping you’d be to exhausted to try anything tonight, but given your track record…”

You started kicking, trying to wriggle your way out but just like your capture his grip was ironclad. Over his shoulder you went, instead of the tent he took you towards the temple. Mumbling under his breath. “Normally the Lamb or Leshy would deal with this but since Leshy’s asleep and the Lamb is going crusading tomorrow it’s up to me, I’ll go light this time so consider yourself lucky.”

The temple was dark, no surprise save for a few candles, he strode past the podium to the back where a small door was tucked away. Opening it showed a rather cozy little study, Narinder walked in with you, closed the door and sat down on a nearby chair. He placed you over his lap, one hand on your back, you tried to bite his leg but he either didn’t feel it or ignored it. Before you could try and bite him again…your diaper was pulled down and a sharp swat to your rear was felt. You yelped and turned to see him holding a small paddle, you thought for a moment it was a hairbrush..but nope it was a wooden paddle.

You kicked as he continued, you yelped with each swat. This didn’t feel like when he swatted you with that stupid stick but it hurt, worst yet they kept it up. Even when you started to beg, he ignored it and instead started talking like he just started a conversation with someone.

“Be lucky it was me who caught you, Kallamar or Shamura would make you count it out. If you lost count, you’d start over.”

{SWAK! SWAK! THWAK!}

“Though, Heket wouldn’t even bother with that, she’d just start whooping ya. Leshy it varies with him, either way he’d just keep at it.”

{SWAK! SMACK! TWAK!}

“Let me make this clear, the Lamb spared you. You should be grateful for their generosity and mercy, you can’t imagine what they’d would’ve done to you if you were someone else.” Narinder hissed, giving one final hard swat to your now sore rear. It felt like a ripped open blister, you were sucking in breaths only for them to come out as strangled sobs. Narinder pulled your diaper back up, it just made the feeling worse instead of better.

It took you a moment but you managed to blubber how you didn’t want to be here and just wanted to leave as he sat you on his lap. In response, Narinder gripped your chin…not hard but firm and made you look at him…those red eyes were boring into you.

“You don’t get to decide that, you stole from us. Accept it or you’ll be facing a worse punishment than this. An trust me….this is mild compared to-“

“I think thats enough Nari~”

You flinched, you tried to take her head away but it was stuck in Narinder’s grip. He, on the other hand turned to the voice. “Lamb, you should be sleeping.”

“I was but I woke up to find you..and the baby was gone, took a wild guess on where you’d both be, Guess I was right.” Finally Narinder released your chin, you pulled away and tried to run but…the Lamb this time snatched you up.

“I was hoping you’d wait at least a day or two before trying an escape, oh well. Back to bed with you.” You kicked a bit but a rather hard swat on your rear from the Lamb stopped that, you yelped. That pain flailing up worse then before, you were about to cry again before something was pushed into your mouth. You looked…it was a pacifier.

“Now, now, no more fussing. You’re going back to bed and this time I’m gonna be sure you stay in bed this time.” The Lamb adjusted you in their arms, your head firmly pressed against their chest.

You pushed but…the mix of that stupid pacifier started to make you feel a little tired and..your rear still hurt, so much so, that tears still pricked at your eyes. Ugh you just wanted to scream, kick and even punch the Lamb.

“Little one, we’ve been over this. I’ll spare you a lecture this time but remember you cross more lines like this you’re gonna get the same result.” You twitched a bit when the Lamb started talking, their hand rubbing your back. “Hate it all you want, its how we’re doing this. Now don’t try this again unless you want something worse then a paddle, ok down ya go~”

The Lamb almost sang that last part as they settled you back in the crib, this time slipping something over your hands. Mittens…stupid little mittens! Next they wrapped a blanket around your waist and legs, swaddling them up tight. You whimpered when you were moved around, in response the Lamb rubbed your head. “Take that as a lesson learned, now….lets see what did Shamura showed me- oh right.”

They turned and started fiddling with something, you tried to ‘un-swaddle’ your legs but those damn mittens wouldn’t let you grip even the blanket! The Lamb came back while you were still trying (and failing) to get the blanket off your legs.

“Ookay, open wide.” Before you could give a snarky response about the pacifier being stuck in your mouth…it was popped out and replaced with a bottle. Just on pure instinct you started suckling, the contents was just..plain warmed up milk but your body was chugging it down like it was a last meal! The more you gulped down…the heavier your whole body became, by the time it became empty…your whole body felt like a dead weight and your eyelids were bags of waterlogged sand. When the Lamb took the bottle away and set it to the side, they sat you up enough to pat your back and get a rather audible burp from you before putting the pacifier back in.

“There, now be good and stay asleep. Goodnight my little thief.” You blinked at them after they gave you a peck on the forehead.

As much as you tried to fight it…the milk, pacifier and exhaustion caught up to you…you succumbed to sleep a few minutes later.

Chapter Text

Morning came and..of course came the embarrassment of recalling last night’s failed attempt of escape. You began to stir… kicking off the blankets that loosened during the night and flexing your hands…still wrapped in those stupid mittens, flinching both feeling cold and…damp, you sat up a little, lifted your blanket…. blushing you thought about how you’d cover this up when you felt a hand on your head.

“Good morning my little escape artist!” You flinched, looking up to find the Lamb’s smiling face. You wanted to glare but that fell through when you noticed them carrying something in their other arm. Your blush deepened seeing it was a clean diaper and new clothes. “Up we go!”

They lifted you up and sets you on the changing mat on the ground, your face grew warm looking down at your soiled garments. Last night was bad enough why did you have to wake up to this?!  You covered your face and grumbled, the diaper change was quick which was a relief but no less humiliating. Your hands were pulled away from your face, the Lamb was smiling at you before taking off your mittens and playfully kissing your palms. Ugh this was embarrassing, you wanted to- the Lamb began tickling your sides. You yipped and started giggling, trying to wiggle away but to no avail.

“There’s a smile, can’t let you go around wearing a scowl on your face all day. Thats Nari’s job, now today you’ll be with Heket and…maybe some time with Kallamar. If no one gets hurt or sick that is.” The Lamb sighed as they started to dress you, this time was a little robe, a soft pale red bordering pink. There’s no sleeves on the robe you noticed, then around your waist they tied a small apron.

“Heket told me this was necessary, don’t know why.” You looked up, that was a lie for sure. That smile said everything.

It was then you noticed…Narinder was no where in the tent, odd..you thought he’d be at least stay to say good morning or get ready. You flinched when the Lamb lifted you up and strode out the door with you. You winced again as the sunlight hit you, your eyes adjusted rather quickly though. When they did you saw Narinder, he was talking to that blue squid Kallamar across the way near the large statue of the Lamb. Before you knew it, you were at the cooking station. The other two cooks, Raha and Knox were already bustling around. Heket was stirring a cauldron of porridge before turning towards you and the Lamb.

“Bout time you got here, hand’em over.” Heket sat the ladle aside before taking you from the Lamb’s arms. “Remember Heket, bring them for the sermon and be sure they get settled down for a nap at noon.” Said the Lamb before patting your head.

“Yeah, yeah I got it now scram!” You blinked when the Lamb jumped and scurried off, before you could blink again you were whisked to the back part of the cook station, there sat a stool, wash basin and a small bucket of vegetables.

“Ok kiddo, got a simple chore for ya. See these veggies? Gonna turn that into tonight’s stew, yer gonna wash each of them.” You nodded, but before you could get to work…your stomach decided to announce how empty it was and demand food. Heket blinked at you before a scowl etched on her face. “Of course that Lamb didn’t feed you, hang on pumpkin.”

She turned and in just a few minutes had a bowl of porridge and a bottle ready for you, she sat down, setting the bottle aside before hoisting you onto her lap. You wanted to protest but your stomach won out, she spooned in the porridge. Credit where it’s due, Heket’s one mean cook! Then again you hadn’t had a proper meal in a very long time. It wasn’t long before you finished off the bowl and was on to the bottle, once that was finished she gave your back a few direct yet gentle swats getting a burp in response out of you.

“Alright, now thats taken care of you can get right to your chore.” Heket sat you down on the stool and handed you a small scrub brush and a bushel of radishes. “Alright, just dump the radishes in the water, scrub them clean and put them in that bucket there.” She pointed to a different bucket on the other side of you.

“When yer done I’ll change the water and get you a new batch of veggies to wash, hop to it.” She stood up and walked back to Raha and Knox who were pouring bowls of porridge. You got to work, dumping the radishes into the wash basin before scrubbing them. You heard the hustle and bustle of cultist coming in for their breakfast and other foods.

You were content at this little task, washing vegetables, kind alike yesterday with plucking the weeds out of the farm plots. But then the memory of last night popped up again, ugh…getting caught wasn’t bad enough, having to face getting paddled by Narinder was just salt in the wound. You shook your head and went back to your chore, you’d think of another way to escape. Maybe find somewhere far away from this place..you sighed and finished the last radish before Heket came back to check on you.

“Well, I’m impressed. I was kinda expecting you only to be like halfway done.” She said while examining the cleaned veggies. “You didn’t half-ass it either, good job.” She took the bucket of clean radishes and sat them on a counter next to other veggies. It was then you noticed the pot that once held hot porridge was empty and was being cleaned, you were gonna hop off the stool when you saw a familiar walking towards the cook station….

Narinder…

Oh great, what the hell did he want? Knox noticed him first, already going into submissive mode.“High priest! H-hello! Sorry we just finished up the-“

“What the hell you doing here, breakfast is over.” Heket walked up, rag in hand, she motioned Raha and Knox towards the other side of the kitchen. “I came to check on the little one per the Lamb’s orders. They left for pilgrims passage this morning and instructed me on a few chores…this being one of them.”

“The Lambs got you wrapped around their finger don’t they?” Heket chuckled. “Kids fine, they just finished cleaning some of these radishes.” She pointed over to you, by instinct you looked away…last night was rearing its ugly head back in yet again.

“Well either way I’m just here to check on them, I’ll be back later to collect them for the mid morning sermon.” Heket raised an eyebrow. “Ya don’t trust me to bring them to the damn sermon?”

“No Heket, the Lamb just wants me to do it cause after the sermon they wanna have a chat with them about what happened last night.” That got Heket to look at you and back at Narinder. “What happened last night?”

You glared at him but he either didn’t see it or didn’t care. “First escape attempt.” There was a long pause before Heket let out a loud belly laugh. “Already?! How far did they get?!”

“Heket we’ve talked about this, we’re not-“ Narinder was cut off by Heket turning to you. “Did ya even get past the temple or did they catch a right outside yer crib?!”

“Heket!” Narinder growled, that seemed to settle her down…a little bit. “For goodness sake settle down will you? I told you just know so you’re aware of what happened not so you can humiliate them.” She gave a dismissive wave before looking back at you with a smirk. “Leshy got you beat, he could sneak out and back in without anyone knowing.”

Narinder chimed in again. “That is till Shamrua put their foot down and started keeping tabs on him..and let’s not forget the punishments they implemented.” Huh..you noticed both fo them kinda shivered at that….was Shamrua that scary?

“Either way.” Narinder cleared his throat. “I wanted to let you know what the Lamb said so you’re not taken off guard. They’ll probably be back soon, they wanted to check on the lighthouse as well.” He then looks at you, you in turn look away. When you turned back he was already walking away…good now you could get some peace.

Heket came back and changed out the water for the next batch of veggies for you to clean, that next batch of course was potatoes. After a few more bushels of veggies the chore was done, Heket came over and started clean up your hands. “Good job kid, now we can make a good clean stew tonight.”

You nodded and noticed a slight commotion coming from the farmlands, you wandered towards the corner of the cook station to have a glance. Heket however pulled you back, not hard, just hooked the back of your apron and pulled you towards her. “Hold up there kid, let me check it out first. Gotta make sure it’s not another fight.”

She peeked around and sighed. “Lamb’s back, means sermons gonna start soon and…yep right on time.” You looked and…saw Narinder coming towards the cook station again. Heket turned to you and without a word, picked you up in one arm and started towards Narinder. “Here, hand delivered.”

Heket dropped you into Narinder’s arms, you…didn’t mind much as it kinda made Narinder growl at her a bit. “Don’t drop children like that!”

“We did that with Leshy all the damn time!” Heket croaked, Narinder snapped back. “Yeah and look how that turned out!”

Heket gave a loud snort. “Don’t you go lecturing me!”

The two growled at each other a little more before Narinder took you to the temple. You weren’t dreading anything..at least not right away, you were kinda wondering why the Lamb wanted to talk to you now when they had a chance earlier. Well no time to dwell on it now, already Narinder had you in the temple. He stood just as he did before by the podium, he adjusted you, like he had the first time. It’s not long before everyone gathers in the temple, the Lamb right out in front. The sermon was a rather quick one, only delving into smaller yet no less important topics of tolerance and respect for every walk of life. Soon the sermon was finished and everyone was filing out, Narinder turned around and took you towards the back. It was there you noticed…a door hidden behind a pillar, he opened it and inside was a small study, a desk littered with papers with various symbols and writing with a chair slightly pushed away from it, artifacts cluttered a nearby line of shelves and there..tucked beside the desk and window…was a bassinet cloaked by a transparent canopy but was enshrined with protective runes.

There was also a small table with a soft cloth draped over…you blushed seeing folded clean diapers and supplies by it..it was a changing table. Why on earth would the Lamb have this here?! What was the point of all this?! Seems Narinder was sharing your feelings as he took a seat, it was the only one there frankly. He sat there with you in his lap, you opened your mouth to say something when your stomach spoke for you….growling rather loudly. Despite that delicious breakfast this morning it was growing very close to lunch time.

“With luck the Lamb will kept this brief and we can get you fed..and down for a nap.” Narinder sighed, sitting you upright in his lap. “Though…I should’ve asked Heket to feed you before we got here but..the Lamb-“

“I heard my name, are you two talking about me behind my back? Cheeky little darlings~!” You saw the Lamb walk in with a basket, you saw something sticking out of one side…bread and on the otherside was a bottle of milk. They placed the basket on the table near Narinder. “I also brought a little something from Heket, told me to ‘feed the baby’ or she’d kill me. Told her she’s done that already, needs to think of a better threat!”

“Get to the point Lamb.” Narinder reached and grabbed the bottle, having it already offered to you. You began to drink its contents as the Lamb spoke up. “So snippy, alright well I called you both here because of last night. Granted it was your first attempt but I’m aware you’re still sore about it…in the ‘figurative’ sense of course.” You glared at the Lamb but refocused on the bottle as they continued.

“Normally if that happened I’d have Narinder or whomever punished you sit with you and give you a lecture or talk it out or I’d do it myself. Then let you cry before putting you to bed or back to your chores, but more importantly it’s to avoid bad blood between anyone and you’re to talk out what happend. No back-sassing, no insults and foul language from either of you.” The Lamb gave you and Narinder a pointed stare. “I want you to bond as well or at least learn to tolerate each other. Narinder’s last chore today is helping translate some tablets he found, a fairly simple task and you my little thief are gonna be keeping him company during your nap.” The Lamb poked your nose.

“When he’s done and you had your nap you’re going back with Heket. This is little arrangement will apply to everyone involved, I’d go into more detail but its getting late and you both have things to do. So have fun you two!” With that the Lamb almost skipped out of the room, you blinked and looked at Narinder…he gave you a glance before reaching for the basket and taking out the bread. He sat it aside before taking the bottle from you, it was already half empty.

He took out more of the baskets contents, a jar of berry preserves, dried fish and meat and a bowl of mashed pumpkin. Soon the two of you were eating, he partaking in the fish and meat and occasionally the bread with some berry preserves on it while you got the mashed pumpkin…and a little bit of the dried meat, he gave you the softest ones so you didn’t have to chew too much. So far the two of you remained silent and that was fine by you, what was there to talk about? He caught you, punished you, that was it…

You were lost in your thoughts for a moment before being called back by Narinder. “I will say…I was impressed at how far you got last night. But regardless the motion still stands that you’re stuck here, growing up in this cult. I’d rather not have to punish like you like that again, further more I know your smart, smarter than the Lamb gives you credit for….well honestly its due to your looks that they don’t take you seriously in this matter an…thats more on them but still. They want whats best for this cult and for you, if you keep pushing you won’t get pushed back….you’ll be thrown. I’m stating this as a warning if you try any stunts that’ll get others or yourself hurt.”

You stared at him, geez the guy had the gentleness of a tumbling boulder. If this was meant to be anything other than a threat, then he missed the mark big time. You looked away more out of boredom but your eye caught something….his wrist had shackle scars…they looked deep too…like the shackles were heavy and dug into the skin. You averted your eyes…no one likes people staring at things like that…or so you thought. You noticed him adjust his sleeve and pull it back…holding up his wrist for you to clearly look at.

“I may not like the Lamb much….but I am thankful for what they did, despite their methods. I was…a prisoner, they freed me, reunited me with my siblings. I am grateful…an perhaps in due time you’ll be grateful too.” With that he covered them back up again and grabbed some dried fish, he popped them in his mouth and reached for your bottle. He seems so…nonchalant now, like those scars were just patterns in his fur now….

Before long you finished the bottle and was burped, he settled you into the bassinet when there came a knock at the door….no a pounding. He got up but he didn’t have a chance to open the door, that happened on its own when a familiar red frog kicked it open. “Where’s the damn Lamb?!”

Wow…Heket looked like she was ready to rip something apart. “Whats wrong now Heket, also next time let me open the door. I swear…”

You peeked over the side of the bassinet, catching Heket’s gaze which softened slightly seeing you. She motioned Narinder close and whispered something, you watched his expression from stoic melancholy to stomach wrenching nausea the next. “Oh for- are you serious?!”

Heket nodded. “So I came to see the lamb about it. Where are they?” Narinder motioned over his shoulder. “Try by the silos, last I recalled he was gonna talk to Leshy about more seeds and crop rotation.”

“Thanks, sorry about the door.” Heket nodded to him and then walked up to you, she planted a kiss on your temple, ruffled your head and walked out. Narinder fixed the door and returned to the task of tucking you in for a nap. “She tends to be…’spirited’ when it comes to matters involving her kitchen. In case you were wondering.”

Well that answered one question, but before you could ask for more details he was adjusting your blanket and tucking you in. Ugh you didn’t particularly like this, you tried to wriggle out but that stopped when he slipped a pacifier into your mouth and sat back down. You gave a half hearted glare at the ceiling, blinking when you noticed the ceiling was…moving? No, not the ceiling…you, the bassinet was rocking. You could hear Narinder shuffling papers and dragging a claw across stone tablets.

He started muttering softly, first in a foreign tongue then back to one you knew…this continued as your eyes grew heavy…

Maybe….you’d find out what happened later…

Chapter Text

“Be still little one I’m almost done!” You wriggled in the mass of tentacles, since you were passed off this morning you’ve been cooped up in the tailor tent with the resident doctor, Kallamar. He seemed hellbent on dressing you up in every outfit the tailor had to offer. Currently you went through the following outfits; a pinafore and matching caplet, a tunic with intricate embroidery and bonnet, a onesie with little sheep on it, finally he settled on a long cream colored robe with light blue stitching. It came with a little hood that he pulled over your head. “Just lovely! It’s rather rainy today so you’ll need warm clothes, I just wish this wasn’t made out of cotton. It absorbs so much…anyway let’s get you some breakfast.”

Kallamar peeked out, you managed to see that…he wasn’t wrong. It was raining a decent amount, at least the crops would get watered. Kallamar pulled you tight to his chest as he hurried you to the kitchen station, it had its large canopy overhead to protect other cultist while they got their breakfast. It was rather sparse today but it was almost the end of breakfast anyway, Heket was pouring out a bowl when Kallamar approached her with you in toe.

“Ah dear sister, how are you this rather dreary morning?”

Heket turned, giving him a stern glare. “Yer late, you were suppose to bring the kid here before the rush.”

…Did she really have to call you a kid? You heard Kallamar give a huff. “Excuse me for wanting our newest addition to arrive at breakfast looking beautiful.” Almost on cue he holds you out to Heket. “Tell me they don’t look perfect!”

Heket gives you a once over…she doesn’t hide her smirk as she then takes you from Kallamar and settles you in a chair right behind her. Grabbing a bowl of mashed berries she starts feeding you, Kallamar protesting right behind her. “Heket! How dare you- the child is my ward today and it’s my responsibility to feed them!”

“You’re gettin the bottle in a minute right now these berries are getting cold and I’m sure it’ll take you hours to feed them given the outfit ya put them in.” You couldn’t say much to that, you just ate…you were pretty hungry. Soon you polished off the bowl, surprisingly not a single bit of berry mash got on your robe much to Kallamar’s relief.

“Alright Kall, you can handle the rest.” She passed you back to Kallamar with a bottle, he huffed and turned towards the medical hut. By then the rain had lightened up just enough to make the walk less rushed, but by then time you two arrived the rain stated up again.

“Ah, good timing. Probably won’t get many patients today so that gives me time to catch up on some paperwork.” He gives a dramatic sigh as one pair of tentacles cradle you while another pair proceed to feed you the bottle…having multiple arms comes in handy you guessed. “I wish the Lamb would be more productive with resource gathering, Leshy can only grow so many camellias at a time…even then they’re not as potent as the ones from Darkwood.”   

You tried to tune him out but..hearing him whine about little things like this was kinda entertaining. Plus it wasn’t like you could just walk away…the tentacles made it impossible. So you continued with your bottle and the endless griping of the squid doctor…well that was the plan till you heard the door to the hut open. You tried to look but the tentacle supporting your head kept it in place.

“Hello dear brother, sorry I’m late.” You recognize the voice…Shamura, the spider and resident teacher. “Dear sibling! Come in, come in! We just got here so don’t worry.” You were too focused on the bottle to notice Shamura approaching till they were petting your head.

“Hello little one, wonderful to see you this morning.” You felt their mandibles brush your forehead in what you assumed was their version of a kiss, either way what was going on today. “Have a seat over ther and I’ll start your check up.”

Shamura sat down on a stool beside Kallamar, you watched as Kallamar started examining Shamura’s eyes, mouth, all the typical doctor things…till he started examining Shamura’s head. Tracing his tentacles along their temples and forehead. “Have your migraines been getting worse or better?”

“They’ve been less frequent, small headaches now and then. Nothing a cup of camellia tea can’t handle…although from time to time I …tend to loose track of things. Little items like cups or books but other than that things have been manageable.”

Huh..migraines, your gaze grew more focused as you followed Kallamar’s hands. They reached behind Shamura’s head…then slowly made their way back round. What was this about, you tried to get a closer look but those stupid tentacles…not to mention your ‘regressed’ reflexes were still honed on finishing this stupid bottle. Oh well, from the looks of it you were just about done anyway…

“I’ll give you some medicine if the migraines return, if they become more frequent or the medicine isn’t strong enough let me know immediately.” You blinked as Kallamar handed Shamura a small satchel, the moment it entered their hand it disappeared into their tunic. “Thank you Kallamar…Narinder has been…concerned for my mental health lately.”

“Can you blame him? After that incident you had a while ago?”

What? You managed to tear yourself away from your bottle to look, only to be met with a tentacle turning your head and the bottle returning to your mouth again. You could hear Shamura sighing, a sigh that was as heavy as a lead brick. “The Lamb made quick work of that scoundrel, I’m more embarrassed that I didn’t catch it.”

“Sibling, my heart, you can’t blame yourself. Menticide powder is undetectable even with a well trained pallet, let’s just be happy Narinder kept you in check during- …um let us not discuss this in front of the little one.”

Oh NOW they acknowledge your here, oh well the bottles done. You push it away from you but before you could do anything Shamura took you into their arms, gently placed over their shoulder as they began patting your back. You blushed when you let out a..bit of a loud burp, one you didn’t intend on. Making Shamura and Kallamar chuckle, geez did they have to. Shamura was now cradling you, ok maybe you could take a early nap-

Nope, suddenly Kallamar was examining you while Shamura held  you. Your face, arms, sides, one hand pried open your mouth. Ok, you drew the line there, you snapped it down on his gloved finger but…your jaws weren’t what they use to be but you felt a bit of satisfaction feeling Kallamar flinch when you got his index finger but it didn’t seem to stun him long. Instead his finger twisted and felt around the back of your teeth and under your tongue.

“Hmm…their gums feel fine but…their teeth don’t feel right. I’m going out on a limb here and say they’re gonna start falling out soon.” Kallamar withdrew his finger, your body went cold hearing that.

Y-your teeth were gonna fall out?!

“Is that normal?” Shamura chimed, Kallamar turned, threw his gloves into a bin, turned back to the nearest wash basin and began to clean his hands off. “Considering those are ‘adult’ teeth and the regression didn’t take ‘everything’ away. At least when it came to their mind, it probably took longer for their teeth. Either way-” He continued while one of his tentacles petted your head.

“We’ll need to talk to the Lamb about this, I don’t wanna risk our little ward choking on a dislodged tooth. Also should talk to Heket about changing their diet a bit to accommodate the lack of teeth.” Kallamar sat back down, taking you back into their tendrils.

No…no no no this can’t be happening, your teeth are gonna fall out?! You’ll have to regrow them again?!?! You started to hyperventilate, you flinched when you were pressed against Kallamar’s chest, his hand rubbing your back. “Maybe…we should have this conversation another time Shamura..our little ward is getting upset.”

“I agree, I have some matters to attend to anyway.” You felt their hand gently pet your head again, their mandibles brushing against your forehead once more. “Kallamar will take good care of you little one.”

You wanted to glare at them but Kallamar took you to a corner of the medical hut and tucked you into a little bassinet. “I know it sounds scary but don’t you fret, you’ll get new teeth in no time. Who knows they might be prettier than your old ones!”

Ok now you glared, you started to snap back at the comment but all that came out…was a ‘hiccup’ and babyish whine. That got a coo from Kallamar who squished your face between his hands, then proceeded to plant over a million little kisses on your face.

“You are just the cutest little thing! Don’t tell Leshy though..he’ll get jealous.” You grumbled as he tucked a blanket around your legs. “I’d like to do a proper physical on you but it’s getting too close to your scheduled nap time, and knowing the Lamb will want to be present during. Best to have you nice and rested.”

You just stared at him for a moment before turning on your side..a nap…did sound good right now.

Chapter Text

Well a nap did help, you had time to meditate on a way to get out. Currently Kallamar was filing papers…granted its broad daylight but these jerks wouldn’t expect you to try something like an escape in these conditions. Right now you were sitting in a playpen in the corner, you just needed to wait for the right moment, maybe someone would walk in with a scratch-

“Doctor help!”

You nearly jumped out of the bassinet when someone came rushing in, reeling back…you saw a rabbit clutching a bloody cloth over their hand. Well….you got your wish. Kallamar was tending to the wound giving you enough time to slip out of the hut without being noticed. That was the easy part…now was trying to get to the damn exit without being spotted.

Its midday and followers could be walking around, any one of them could ‘sound the alarm’ and your over someone’s knee again. Only good thing it had stopped raining for now but that could change, the ground was slippery and muddy…and as much as you wanted to just make a run for it..ya decided to ditched the tunic you were wearing and just go out in your diaper. Despite this place you didn’t want to ruin the outfit. The tailor worked hard on that piece of clothing so it’s only fair to show it some respect.

Once the outfit was off you looked around, there was a lull in the rain but everyone was still inside. The entrance of the compound as in sight, you were crouched behind a tree just a few feet from the stairs leading out and already trying to plan how to scale it…when something hard latched on to your ear and gave a tug..you winced and went to swat it when..you turned to see Myre kneeling beside you. Despite his smiling…his eyes weren’t exactly casting a friendly light.

“An where do you think your doing? Pretty sure Dr.Kallamar wouldn’t be letting you out, especially without clothes on.” Oh you did not like that look, his eyes narrowed on you an that grip of his got tighter. You hissed and tried to pry his fingers off but with no avail.

You yelped when he gave a sharp tug and wrapped one arm around you, proceeding to carry you off. You kicked and tried wriggling out of his grip, but it was tight. You were to busy struggling that you nearly jumped out of your skin when you heard a door slam. You blinked seeing it was one of the tools sheds near the farm plots. He grabbed a stool nearby and slid it to the center of the shack, you knew what was coming and thus tried to get away…by making one big mistake…

You bit him.

Everything went still, even he did for a moment before another voice called out in a tone so cold you swore the rain outside turned to ice. “Did you just bite him?”

You looked up, teeth still latched on. Standing in a corner with a sack slung over his shoulder..was Leshy. His eyes narrowed on you, for a moment he was still before simply dropping the sack and storming over. He snatched you right out of Myre’s hand, before you could react…Myre stepped in. “Whoa Leshy easy! They didn’t hurt me for lamb-sake!”

“They still bit you!”

Myre grabbed his shoulder, halting Leshy for a moment, you looked up at them. “Remember what we discussed…you cool off first then punish, look, they didn’t even make a imprint. If anything they just surprised me, now settle down before you do something stupid.”

You yelped as he plopped you on the stool, grumbling a little before going to sit down in the corner of the shack. Before you could even think of moving, Myre’s hand was on your head keeping you there. “You’re not going anywhere little one, you’re in big trouble for running off like you did. Normally we’d just take you back to Kallamar but…he’s busy with Mace. How he managed to cut his hand like that is still a mystery to me.”

You tried to pry his hand off..no luck, it was a firm grip. You kept trying, unfortunately for you…time ran out. Leshy let out a breath and stood back up, walking back over. “Which hand did they bite?” Myre held up the hand you managed to bite. “This one, but like I said they didn’t leave a mark or anything, just caught me off guard. Anyway…you settle?” You watched as Leshy took Myre’s hand and inspected it, after giving it a good once over he let out a small sigh.

“Yeah…a lil’. Look let’s get this over with.” Myre finally let you go but you were snatched up by Leshy, you started kicking again..despite your struggling you noticed Myre leaving the shack. Next moment you were over Leshy’s lap, now you really started to struggle now. But with one hand on your back, pinning you to his lap made it all but impossible. Your diaper was pulled down and then came the first swat.

[SMACK!SMACK!SMACK!SMACK!]

He was using his hand and despite not being as painful as the paddle it still hurt, you tried to endure it but with a regressed body like yours…your senses became more sensitive.

[SMACK!SMACK!SMACK]

You tried to kick free but it just made him hold you tighter, you tried to hold it in …but the last swat got you and you started crying.

[SMACK!SMACK!SMACK!SMACK!SMACK!]

Finally he finished with one final swat but didn’t mean the pain was over, your rear felt like it got stuck with a burning coal…ok not really but dang if it didn’t feel like it. Your diaper was adjusted back into place before being sat back down on that damn stool. Despite your diaper, it did nothing to help your poor rear. Leshy was kneeling in front of you, his hand gripping both of yours. On instinct you tried to pull them away, a quick squeeze forced you to pause as he glared right at you.

“Keep moving you’ll be going over my knee again.” His voice was so low dirt would not envy him…you shrunk back before Myre stepped over. “I’ll go get Kallamar, you behave. Leshy, I’m talking to you.”

That got his attention away from you for a moment. “Hey, rude.” Myre smirked and gave him a kiss. “Hey, don’t care, love you.”

With that he left, Leshy just rolled his eyes and refocused on you. This time you darted your eyes to your hands, anything to avoid his gaze. He didn’t like that apparently cause he tried to make you look back at him, the claws on his free hand under your chin, tilting your head up. On instinct you closed your eyes, it was a trap and you knew it! He wanted a reason to punish you again for biting Myre you just knew-

“C’mon…yer either being stubborn or-…oh for I’m not gonna spank you again, I just said that so ya’d stop acting like a brat now look at me.” You flinched, eyes shutting tighter…not out of defiance more out of instinct. You started shaking now….oddly enough you smelled dirt…wet dirt and…spit?

“Ok, ok stupid thing to say…kid I’m not gonna spank you again. Please open your eyes and look at me, sooner we talk sooner we get it over with.”

You hesitated…but finally obeyed, you tried not to look directly at him instead focusing on his mouth…or at least tired to. He gave a little snap with his finger, that seemed to get you to look at him. Well at least he didn’t look pissed, annoyed sure; but not pissed. “There, look ya hate this I get it. Believe me I know where yer coming from but trust me when I say its better to stay here then out there right now. Honestly, ya got food here, shelter, clothes, what could you possibly think is better-“

You glared at him this time, squirming you motioned to your diaper. “…Ok besides that, but you brought this on yourself. You targeted our followers you were bound to get in trouble, either way just stop before ya really piss someone off. Namely the Lamb, they may look all dumb and sweet but…let me tell you they are-“

“How many times have I told you to not curse in front of children?” The two of you turned…an there was Kallamar, arms crossed with Myre behind him wearing a ‘happy-go-lucky’ smile and carrying your clothes from before. “I’m going to assume you’ve disciplined them already?”

“Well no shit, you were busy with that idiot who nearly cut off their hand with a hatchet.” In a blink, Kallamar was right by Leshy, giving one of his antlers a flick with a tentacle. “Ow! Damn it knock it off!”

“Start acting like an adult instead of a mouthy teen and I’ll consider it, now come here my little troublemaker.” In one fluid motion you were in Kallamar’s tentacles, re-clothed and out the door, the rain seemed to be starting up again, feeling a few drops hit your face.

“The Lamb will hear about this in a while, right now you’ll be spending some extra time in your bassinet. To ensure you don’t run off again…” his voice trailed off as he entered the medical hut, one tentacle reached into a drawer when the two of you walked in…..pulling out a pair of mittens with drawstrings. You were brought in front of him, two more tentacles holding your hands out. On went the mittens, the drawstring pulled tight, not enough to cut off circulation or to be uncomfortable but it’d be hard remove, worst yet was when Kallamar tied it he tucked the bow he made along with the excess string into the mitten so you couldn’t pull or bite it.

Well…you were gonna try, when Kallamar left to tend to some work you started biting at the mittens. Careful to avoid your fingers, you snagged a portion of the fabric and pulled…big mistake. It snagged on your k-9 tooth and….

[KLRK!]

You flinched, it was quick and sharp….you pulled your hand away…and attached to the fabric…was your tooth. You let out a squeak, covering your mouth…the taste of blood coating the inside of it. Well that squeak seemed to get Kallamar’s attention, he came over and leaned in.

“Did you bite your tongue- oh…oh dear.” You saw his eyes widen slightly before softening, reaching down he plucked your tooth from your mitten and sighed. “Yes, it’s as I thought…we’ll set this aside and get you some water.”

Kallamar placed your tooth on a nearby table, on which a pitcher and cup sat. He poured a small amount in, lifted you up and moved your hands away. He offered you the water..at first you refused but…ugh that taste…you accepted it. You swished and spat it back into the cup, at least the taste was gone…but so was your tooth. Before he could set you down…there came a voice.

“Kallamar, I heard the little one tried another escape. Where are they~?”  It was the Lamb practically singing out to the squid. “In here Lamb, wipe your hooves before you come in and get me some gauze while you’re in there.” There was a pause before you saw the Lamb rush in with a roll of gauze.

“What happened?! What did Leshy do-“ Kallamar snatched the gauze from the Lambs hand and with a free tentacle bopped him on the head. “Stop that, Leshy didn’t hurt them they just lost a tooth.”

After a minute Kallamar managed to calm the Lamb down and explain everything to them while dabbing the space where your tooth use to be. “So you see, they’ll be loosing their teeth and regrowing them so please be aware of that, also make sure you inform Heket so she can prep meals to accommodate them in the future.”

“Ok, good to know. I’ll tell Nari, but other than that…what do you have to report on them escaping?” The Lamb looked at you this time, you gave a little glare back. “Leshy caught and punished them, I’m aware it was suppose to be me but from what I gathered, they bit Myre.” The Lamb blinked before giving a nod. “That explains it…well then I’ll speak to Leshy later. I’ll take my leave, please be sure to get them to my hut later.”

“Yes Lamb.”

———————————————

[Later that Night]

“Did you lose a tooth?” Narinder was prodding the spot where your tooth use to be, trying to see why you refused to take your bedtime bottle. The Lamb chimed in from their shared bed. “Kallamar said they’d be loosing all of them due to the regression process, they’ll get north teeth though but…that’s gonna come in later. For now Kallamar wants us to keep an eye on them in case they loose more teeth.”

Yes, it was finally night time, away from the stress of the day. Though it took a minute to chase Kallamar away but at least you could relax…though you could do without Narinder prodding the spot where your tooth once was..he finally stopped when the Lamb explained. “That checks out at least, now little one. Stop being stubborn and take your bottle.”

You tried to push it away, you just wanted to sleep an not wake up soaked! But after a minute you relented and took the bottle much to Narinder’s relief. “There, things would be a lot simpler if you’d just listened. Considering your attempt today..I doubt it.”

“Narinder take it easy, we knew they’d do this. Besides they didn’t do any real harm to anyone..ok yes they did bite Myre earlier but still. Tomorrow we’ll have Shamura watch them, maybe some time with them can help…at least till lunch.”

You hated how they talked, like you weren’t there listening to them. You just wanted to yell at them..if it wasn’t for the bottle and the fact you were missing a FREAKING TOOTH!

“Oh! Looks like you’re done, good job honey!” Cooed the Lamb, your bottle was empty…since when did you finish it? Oh well…Narinder took it and handed you to the Lamb..took you into their arms before patting your back getting a burp. However instead of being sat in your crib or bassinet…the Lamb took out a swaddling blanket and proceeded to wrap you in it, your arms pressed to your sides a bit while ensuring you had a little bit of movement but not much. They moved quickly so you didn’t have time to register what they were doing till they finished. You were swaddled right down to your feet and nestled between them and Narinder when he laid down.

“Since you can’t be trusted sleeping in your bassinet and Narinder hates you inside your crib, you’re gonna sleep right here between us.” Smiled the Lamb, they cuddled right next to you and gave you a peck on the cheek. Narinder joined a minute later, he simply crawled under the covers and fell asleep. Great…there went your next try….oh well.

You needed sleep anyway…you’d figure out something in the morning.

End