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A corpse lay before the God. The broken limbs bent as a bony hand lifted it into the air. The Sacrificial Lamb. Even when Narinder asked him to die so that he could be free, the Lamb obediently gave up his life. He was a worthy follower. Though the cat never told him so, he respected him for his diligence and loyalty. It was even a pity to part with Lambert.

But years passed. For Narinder, who had waited so many years in imprisonment, a couple of simple years, especially spent in freedom, should have seemed unnoticeable. Over in the blink of an eye. But no. Something scraped and scratched at his soul. An intangible feeling that neither food nor sleep could satisfy.

Even when crowds of followers praised his name, Narinder was not happy. He smiled, gave orders, but inside him, a strange feeling still grew… He had never felt this before. The years spent in the dungeon of the Afterlife had dulled his senses, and this new state frightened the cat.

Finally, one dark evening, he went far away from his enormous cult. On a hill stood a small gravestone. It had no name. It bore no inscription. Just an empty, cold stone.

"You gave me everything… So what do you want? You returned my freedom to me… My sons and I are happy… But… you don’t want to let me go, do you? Damned Lamb… Just rest in peace…"

Narinder placed his hand atop the earth. The Crown on his head painted the surroundings with a faint crimson light. Its eye coldly observed its master. Watched as his hand raked the earth and plunged downward. Watched as he knelt before the grave and shed a few meager tears. It wasn't the first time this had happened. It had become almost a ritual. Weeping over an unknown grave.

But this time…

The cat stood and shook off the remnants of dirt. Then the Crown felt a command. Its body contorted and took the shape of a shovel. Black hands gripped the tool and began to dig. After some time, a mutilated corpse appeared under the moonlight. Flesh barely covered the bones, many of which were broken and riddled with cracks.

The black hands carefully stuffed the remains of the body into a large sack. Hoisting it onto his shoulder, the God carried his burden toward the temple. Fortunately, many followers were asleep, and those few who had not yet succumbed to slumber did not ask about the strange contents of the sack. They were no strangers to seeing sacks filled with dead bodies. They were needed for rituals. But the ritual Narinder wished to perform had never been done before. It was not a simple resurrection. He knew he could not bring back to life the one who had previously worn the Crown upon his head.

A God whose sacrifice was the price for fulfilling fate could not be resurrected. This was another rule of this cruel world. Narinder did not wish to test his luck against fate. But something had to be done. He could no longer suffer from this feeling.

Entering the familiar space of the temple, the God began to lay out the contents of the sack. All in a pile in the center of the room. The crimson light from the windows illuminated the decomposed flesh and the cracks in the bones. Narinder’s face remained calm. He was ready. He knew what to do. He had always known.

Taking the Crown from his head, he let it hover over the body. The cat began to whisper old incantations. Ones that had not been spoken for centuries. Ones that were meant to grant his wish. Finally…

Fire, poured forth from the Crown, consumed the entire pile, leaving not a trace. The flame burned for a few moments, washing the God of Death with heat. Then the red eye on the crown shone brightly.

"𐌐𐌀𐌉𐌔𐌄 𐌀𐌍𐌄Ꮤ 𐌕𐋅𐌐Ꝋ𐌵Ᏽ𐋅 𐌕𐋅𐌄 𐌀𐌔𐋅𐌄𐌔. 𐌋𐌉𐌊𐌄 𐌕𐋅𐌄 𐌓𐋅Ꝋ𐌄𐌍𐌉𐌗 𐌃𐌉𐌃. 𐌁𐌄 𐌂Ꝋ𐌍𐌔𐌵𐌌𐌄𐌃 𐌀𐌍𐌃 𐌃𐌄ᕓꝊ𐌵𐌐𐌄𐌃. 𐌁𐌄 𐌀 𐌓𐌀𐌐𐌕 Ꝋ𐌅 𐌔Ꝋ𐌌𐌄𐌕𐋅𐌉𐌍Ᏽ 𐌍𐌄Ꮤ."

From the Crown, dark tendrils emerged. They stretched out in different directions, as if feeling out their surroundings. Then the fire went out. From the smoke stepped a being…

It was an exact copy of the Lamb. Every strand of fur matched what Narinder remembered. A faint smile appeared on the God's face. His chest heaved with exhaustion. This spell consumed much strength. He needed to rest…

Narinder closed his eyes for just a moment. But his mind was already sinking into darkness. He didn't even realize when his body began to fall forward. All he remembered was a soft sensation under his head… and a quiet voice.

"Sleep well, Nari. You need rest…"

——————-

He awoke in his bed. His personal chamber was dark. The darkness soothed him. Helped him forget about everything. But not now.

Narinder quickly lifted his head. Three red eyes scanned the room. The first sensation he registered was a strange emptiness on his head. Of course, the Crown was gone… The Crown was…

From the side, an agitated voice was heard. A familiar voice that slightly calmed the God's racing heart.

"Master! You're awake! Aym was just about to call a doct— Ouch!"

Turning his head, Narinder saw his two precious disciples sitting before him on two chairs. Baal was holding his arm, rubbing the bruised spot a little, while Aym was clenching his fist. A small smile appeared on the God's face, and then he laughed hoarsely.

"There is no need for quarrels. I am glad you watched over me. Thank you…"

Aym nodded, then glanced toward the exit of the room. His eyes narrowed into thin slits, and he himself looked slightly tense.

"Master… We saw… the Lamb. Alive. But… you told us that death befell him. And that death cannot be reversed. How can he…"

Narinder clenched the blanket on his bed. His sharp claws at the ends of his bony paws dug straight into the soft fabric. Then he lowered his gaze, unable to say anything.

Then Baal spoke up. His voice sounded less cautious. But surprise, which he always poorly hid in front of his parent, was still felt in it.

"Yes! Brother is right. And your Crown… We searched the entire camp but couldn't find a trace of it… Could it be you were attacked?!"

Aym turned to Baal and sternly shook his head. He crossed his arms in front of him, then flicked his brother on the nose.

"Don't be a fool. No one can defeat Master! Knocking him out is an impossible task, even for other Gods! Who could have stolen his Crown? It always returns to its owner…"

Owner…? And who was the owner of the Crown now? Hah… Of course, the God of Death knew the true owner. Had seen his face the previous night.

"Where…. Where is Lambert now?"

The brothers exchanged glances. A spark of unease appeared in their eyes, and then Baal spoke hesitantly, carefully choosing his words.

"The Lamb… is conducting the morning sermon. Some followers are glad to see him, but… they are puzzled by his appearance… Just like us, to be honest…"

Narinder sighed. So, he was still in the camp. Still near him. Hadn't run away. Hadn't left. He… returned.

A long sigh escaped the God's throat. It seemed years of stress were leaving him in a single moment. Finally… He was free from this feeling. His heart could beat calmly.

Relief flickered across the kittens' faces. Baal even moved closer and placed his palm atop Narinder's hand. The small hand squeezed the bony fingers. The God of Death let out a quiet chuckle and pulled them both to him, then embraced them.

"Everything is fine… I need to meet with him… Don't worry. From this moment on, everything will be fine…"

——————

The Shepherd was finishing his speech in the temple. His smile shone just as before. A bright sun, warming everyone and everything around. So caring, so kind. All-encompassing. No one even noticed the substitution. As if all these years while the Lamb was gone from them hadn't happened.

The followers joyfully clapped their hands and sang along with the loud voice of their old Leader. Not that they disliked Narinder… It was just that Lambert had always been closer to them. Always been there when help was needed. Always been part of their flock…

Many had married during his service, and others simply considered him a good Shepherd. It was surprising that the majority had such an unequivocal opinion of the Lamb. Perhaps that was one of the reasons why, upon Narinder's arrival, the followers faithfully served him. For he was the God of their Leader.

But now their hearts danced and sang joyfully. At last, the one they loved had returned! They did not know why he had been absent for so long, but they simply chalked it up to some magic of the Gods. Besides, Lambert evaded the questions and didn't answer in detail.

When the followers exited through the doors, a tall figure appeared in the passage. Three red eyes stared at Lambert with agitation and indecision. Then the God took a step forward. He knelt down to be a little closer to the Lamb.

He looked just as he had on that day. The red robe barely constrained his bright white wool. His eyes looked so pure… And on his head still sat the Crown. As before. As always.

"Lamb… I'm glad I can speak with you again… I'm so glad…"

When the first tears fell to the floor, the cat grasped Lambert's body and pressed him close in an embrace. He missed him. Truly…

Lambert's arms opened. They tried to embrace Narinder, but could barely reach his back. The Shepherd chuckled quietly. He raised his head and looked at Narinder with a smile.

"Master, why do you look so sad? I'm here. I'm with you. So what do you have to be sad about? I won't leave again…"

Narinder looked into Lambert's eyes. Yes… The very same… Sparks danced merrily in the depths of his dark pupils. His smile was just as innocent…

"Yes… You're right… Welcome back… Our cult missed you. Do you mind taking on the role of a second hand?"

"Of course! I will be glad to help you, Master! I missed my friends too! How wonderful it is to return… This is what you wanted… right?"

Narinder hesitated for a moment. Did he want this? Yes, of course. If he hadn't, the cat would still be suffering… But…

"The Crown… You will continue to be him, yes?"

The radiance emanating from the Crown dimmed slightly. Its eye rose to the God's face.

"Yes, master. As you commanded."

Narinder sighed, then touched the Lamb's face. The Lamb pressed his cheek closer to his fingers, like a puppy who had been waiting for its master.

"Good luck… I need to check on the followers. You can… rest."

"Alright, Master! Have a nice day!"

Lambert took a step back and joyfully waved his hand at Narinder, who was heading towards the temple's exit. The God smiled calmly. His heart no longer worried him.

———————-

All day, peace reigned in the camp. Never before had the world felt so… full. Complete.

Narinder played in the garden with his kittens. Aym joyfully chased after Baal. Joyful, carefree smiles spread across their faces. They frolicked like children. When Baal stumbled, Aym flew at him at full speed and knocked him to the ground.

"Ha! Caught you! You've always been clumsy!"

"Oy, shut up! You're the one who always rushes around without brakes!"

Narinder calmly leafed through a book resting on his lap. In his free time, he occupied himself with reading. During all those years he was imprisoned, much had happened. He needed to catch up…

Three red eyes calmly looked around. Fortunately, the God could be at peace. No one asked him about the Lamb. Although a sense of uncertainty still hung in the camp, many had already accepted the fact of their idol's return.

Even the kittens no longer questioned their father about him. This pleased him… Narinder did not know how they would react to what he had done. The fewer people who knew, the better…

Deep in his soul, the God of Death knew that Lambert… that the Crown was merely playing a role. The Lamb was far away. Somewhere, where even the hand of the God himself could not reach. But that didn't matter. The Lamb is here. He is together with everyone. He conducts sermons. He communicates with the followers.

He is not dead.

And that means everything is fine! Ah, how pleasant it is when one's soul is so calm! How pleasant it is to feel the sunlight on one's skin. How pleasant it is to watch your children rejoice in the freedom that was given to them.

————————

"Oh! Hello! How did you sleep today, Leader?"

One of the followers asked. Narinder tried to hide his fatigue. Yesterday had been such a happy day… He had expected to fall into bed and fall asleep instantly, but a strange feeling did not leave him. As if someone was standing nearby. But the God saw no one. He inspected the entire room. Even used divine powers to check the surroundings around the house.

No one. Only silence and the singing of birds.

The cat slept little. His instincts did not allow him to relax while chills crawled over his body. What was that? This had never happened before…

But Narinder chalked it up to another consequence of the ritual. Most likely, his body just wasn't used to such exertions. The God had never become this tired before. A little anxiety was normal for him…

Narinder grinned, exposing rows of sharp teeth, and looked at the deer before him. He bent lower and tilted his head to the side.

"I feel perfectly fine, mortal. Do you think I need your pity? Hah… Why don't you go make yourself useful to the cult somewhere else?"

The follower immediately nodded his head, then ran off in a direction, glancing around at various buildings.

The cat sighed. Of course, he was pleased that the followers obeyed him, but he could never find common ground with them. Not the way the Lamb did.

"Hmm… Where is that ball of wool running around… What does he usually do in the morning…?"

"Did you call for me?"

AAAAH— What the hell?!

Narinder spun around sharply. Behind him stood Lambert with his wide smile. He calmly looked at the God. When had he managed to appear here? And how had he heard the cat's words? Well…

"Yes… I wanted to know what you plan to do today…"

"Well, I would like to bring some benefit to our community! Recruit a few new followers, hunt some wild beasts, and then return! Do you have other plans for me, Master?"

Hmm… Well, that's not a bad plan of action. Narinder rarely went on expeditions, and if he sent mortals, they might get lost or die from injuries. Why not use this opportunity?

"No… You decided everything correctly, Lambert. Thank you. If you want, I'll prepare something tasty for you when you return…"

"Really?! Oh, you're so kind! I will gladly eat anything you leave for me! I hope it's something sweet, right?! Isn't it?!"

"Haha… Of course. I'll save the sweetest fruits for you, Shepherd…"

His bony hand stroked the little Lamb on his soft head. It was pleasant for Narinder to speak with him again. It seemed as if not even a week had passed since their last conversation…

"Good luck to you, Master! Mmm… It's been so long since I went on expeditions…"

Mumbling a few words, Lambert headed towards the camp exit, humming a song under his breath. His little hooves merrily stomped on the grass, and his head swayed from side to side. The Crown still rested on his head…

The God of Death watched his receding silhouette until it disappeared into the thick of the trees. Then Narinder went on towards the temple. It was time for another sermon. Well… An ordinary day in the cult…

————————-

"Death is the end. Eternal rest for the soul. Mortals rarely endure resurrection. Their souls crumble, crack, until they simply fall apart… Therefore, it is best to leave the cycle of life as it is. If you do many good deeds, your soul will be reborn in the future as the same kind of being you were before. If your sins outweigh your goodness, you will become a wild beast without the ability to think… With this, I conclude the sermon. You may be free…"

Narinder surveyed the hall with his eyes. The followers listened to him attentively, as always. The God of Death knew many details about the rules of this world, and so his advice was important to the mortals. The animals began to leave the hall, whispering amongst themselves.

"Yeah, the Lord's sermons differ from the Shepherd's speeches…"

"Aha… But I like Narinder's atmosphere… As if we're sharing some secrets…"

"And I love it when the Lamb asks us about our day… I feel like he cares about us…"

"Heh, it's even kind of sweet. Let's go have a drink? I think we can afford a mug before starting work…"

Narinder shook his head. They had different methods, but that wasn't so important. They were partners. Friends. If they conducted rituals in shifts, everyone would be satisfied.

A fresh breeze touched the cat's black fur as he stepped outside. His gaze tried to find something that could occupy him for the near future. Of course, he could go look for his kittens, or suddenly drop in to check on the lumber mill… But he didn't want to disturb the peace of his followers. They deserved to rest in the morning. Without the God's watchful gaze.

"Hah… I'm starting to miss the Crown's voice… It always suggested what to do… Although not all its ideas were… smart…"

Narinder smirked. His lips lifted slightly. He placed his hand on his face and touched the bridge of his nose.

"Yeah… A weapon of the Gods should understand that constantly observing mortals will affect their health… Even I know that…"

With a hoarse laugh, the God walked through the camp. He wandered aimlessly, just approaching one building, then another. No one dared to stop him or disturb him. Everyone was either busy or enjoying the morning.

"I wonder… Does the Crown also rejoice when it wakes up in the morning? Sometimes its monotonous voice sounds so… unfriendly… Well, since we have Lambert now, then… This morning should be a little better than the rest…"

"It never told me about him… Even when I asked it, it just… Just 'the previous master'… Hah. Am I just 'master' too? I should… discuss this…"

Narinder clenched his bony fingers and slowly extended them toward the bush next to him. A simple decoration. Long, long ago, the Lamb had planted many like these. They bloomed often. Perhaps they beautified this place in his vision…

"Strange Shepherd… What went on in your head? Ha… Why am I talking like I can't ask him now? Lambert is here… Lambert is alive… I need to remember…"

Narinder slapped himself on the cheek. Not too hard. Then the cat took a deep breath and bent closer to a small flower on the bush. A fragrant scent hit his nose. It could not be described by any other word than 'gentle'.

"Ah… This always calmed me…"

No sooner had his tail begun to descend than suddenly someone's arms wrapped around his waist and hugged him. Narinder shuddered and raised his hands. Turning around, his gaze softened.

"Oh… Baal… Don't scare me like that… I almost didn't hear you approach…"

"Sorry, Master! I just thought you looked thoughtful… Usually, hugs always lifted your spirits…"

"You're right, Baal… Come here…"

The God of Death turned around and pressed the small black kitten to himself. The kitten let out something between a squeak and a cry, then started rubbing his face against the fabric of his robe.

"Master… I had an argument with Aym that your favorite flowers are Camellias! But he says you love Forget-Me-Nots! But I think that's silly!"

Narinder shifted his gaze to the clearing behind Baal. Many flowers grew there. Scarlet Camellias glowed brightly on the green grass. The God shook his head.

"I don't love flowers. Neither those, nor the others. To me, they are just decorations. Flowers wither with every season… Your happy faces bring me far greater joy… Oh yes… Baal, I have an idea… I'm sure you'll want to see this…"

———————-

Aym was practicing with his weapon. His paws firmly gripped the scythe in his hands. Another swing sliced through the air. A drop of sweat fell from his face. He took a breath.

"Hah… Well, alright… Soon I'll prove to Master… No matter where that Sheep returned from… I'm still better than him!"

Inhale. Exhale.

Another strike. Turn. Strike. Turn. Again and again, until the body memorizes the movement like blinking.

STRIKE AND…

Smack. A small kiss landed on the top of Aym's head. A tall figure stood before him, casting a shadow over his entire body.

The kitten's face flushed with color. He raised his head and saw the smiling face of his father. From surprise, he jumped back several meters and raised his scythe. When it dawned on him what he had done, his hand immediately lowered.

"Master! W-what are you doing here? And… Why did you have to… I-I certainly don't mind, but you need to warn me beforehand! And… and…"

He could barely continue. His paws trembled, and his thoughts tangled. This always happened when Narinder showed him tenderness. Deep down, this strong and independent kitten was very shy, something the God of Death often took advantage of…

"Haha! Oh, brother… Looks like you've trained well, huh?"

Baal stepped out from behind Narinder and shook his head several times. Then he began to laugh loudly. The God of Death also couldn't suppress a small smile. Aym dropped his weapon and instantly lunged at his brother.

"That was your idea! You want to embarrass me in front of Master?! You weak idiot!"

As soon as their hands locked, a bony palm lifted Aym into the air. He dangled his legs for a while, then hung there, like a toy.

"Ngh…! Master, let me go! I need to kick that ball of wool's black a—"

"Aym… Not in front of me… Not now. Or do you want to spend another evening in the corner for bad kittens?"

Aym looked a little angry, but still shook his head and mumbled under his breath.

"No… I don't want to…"

"Then be a good boy, alright? You know, your skills are getting better with every day…"

When Aym was lowered to the ground, the first thing he did was give a small bow. A spark reappeared in his eyes. The kitten crossed his arms and nodded.

"Really? Well, of course, I've trained a lot… Hah, I could handle a whole army of mortals!"

"Yeah, and then we'd be picking you up piece by piece…"

"Shut up! Have you ever even picked up a weapon, huh?!"

"Well, a couple of times… So what? You think you can beat me?"

"Pfft. With one paw tied behind my back!"

Aym bent down and picked up his scythe, then twirled it around his hand and aimed it at Baal with a wide grin.

"What's the matter, brother? Afraid of getting hurt? Don't worry, there are plenty of Camellias here. You can apply one right away! Hahaha—"

Baal made a displeased face and clenched his paw, then lunged forward, aiming his fist straight at Aym's face. Aym bent and slipped under his elbow, then aimed a blow straight at Baal's stomach.

"Ha, and I thought you'd prepared a little…"

"But I did…"

Baal whispered as flames erupted from his empty hand. Aym barely managed to change his strike's trajectory and somersaulted sideways, rolling across the grass. The cat spat out a mouthful of grass and glared furiously at his brother.

"Hey, that's not fair! What the hell are you using magic for?!"

"Yeah, cry about it…"

"WHAT DID YOU SAY?!"

Aym pushed off the ground and began chaotically swinging his weapon. Tufts of fur flew around, and then the smell of something singed hung in the air.

Narinder shrugged and headed in another direction. Usually, such skirmishes lasted quite a while. Although their scuffles amused him, he couldn't spend all his time with these kittens (even if he really wanted to).

On his way, he met a couple of mortals. He answered their bows with a small smile and a nod of the head. Nothing more was required. They obediently parted ways. The God was already accustomed to this. Despite all the years he had commanded them, he let no one into his heart except his kittens and… the Lamb.

Narinder never understood what was so special about that mortal. A simple Sheep… But going through all the trials and expeditions the God of Death gave him, Lambert earned his respect… Though the Shepherd always addressed Narinder from a position of subordination, a strange friendship grew between them…

Everything up to the moment of his death.

"Haaa… Why are you still thinking about this?"

He is here.

He is alive.

He won't leave again.

"Hah. I need to find him. Why is the Shepherd away from his camp for so long? Yes, expeditions usually take time, but…"

"I want to see him. Near me."

A tired sigh escaped the God of Death's mouth.

"I'm not a child. Why do I miss this Lamb so much? We're friends… Comrades in the cult. I am a God, and he is…"

A body. Broken bones. Blood. Innards distinguishable to the eye. How long had I looked at his body?

Had he screamed?

Had he regretted his choice?

Cursed me?

Could it be…

No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.

He couldn't have.

I…

"Master! It's a pity you left! I gave that fool such a thrashing! Heh-heh… Eh…? Master? What…?"

Narinder shook like a leaf touched by the wind. His bony hands held his face, hiding his eyes from which tears dripped. Dark divine tears. Ichor.

"I… I made the right choice… Either him, or us… Either him, or…"

"Master! Master! You… Are you… Oh… Again?"

Black fur touched the hands of the God of Death. A palm covered his fingers. Slowly, carefully, they pulled them away from his face, down which tears were streaming.

"It was the right choice… I… We are both grateful to you… I'm sure… He would have…"

Would have been happy?

Drip. Drip. Drip.

Small black tears fell onto the grass.

"Aym… Even if that's true, then… His blood is on my hands…"

"… Master… It's… not your fault."

"No! It is my fault! You… You know it yourself…"

Narinder waved his hand in the air. His teeth clenched, baring sharp fangs.

"What's the point…? What should I say to him?!"

"Master, you did…"

Red eyes, unnoticed by the cat, lifted higher and fixed on the edge of the forest.

Footsteps were heard. A wide smile stretching from ear to ear. Dark, deep eyes reflected nothing in their darkness. They absorbed, devoured the light.

"Don't you want to ask me?"

Lambert stood before them. Blood dripped from his wool. In a small hand lay a sword. The Crown looked ahead without any emotion.

"… Ah, Lambert… You're just in time… How was the expedition?"

Narinder tried to restrain his anxiety, but it broke through his voice like water overflowing a dam. He had often seen Lambert covered in blood before, but… Now his heart was more worried than ever before.

"Ah, everything was great! Had to struggle a bit with some beasties, but I brought us a lot of meat! I hope I haven't missed lunch?"

"Haha… No, you did well. You made it… Ahem… Could we have a talk? Alone…"

The kitten's paw hung in the air. The expression on Aym's face was clearly full of worry for his father… Letting him go talk to the Lamb in this state…

"Alone, Aym. Go about your business. Your brother will be lonely without you… Tell him I'm busy for… some time."

"Yes… Master…"

Narinder turned away. The Lamb quickly hopped up and joyfully followed him. There wasn't a shadow of bad feelings on his face. Only joy. Even as blood dripped down his skin.

———————

Narinder entered the confessional first. The small room welcomed the God of Death with a pleasant darkness. He sat down on one of the seats, and the Lamb sat down behind a small lattice screen. The building was arranged so that the interlocutor could barely see the person they were talking to.

The cat turned his face to the wall. His eyes wearily gazed at the gaps between the boards. Darkness filled them, preventing the sun from entering. Complete isolation. And silence, broken only by the sound of his breathing…

This continued for several minutes, and then a high voice sounded from behind the wall.

"Wellllll… Master, what did you want to talk about? Haha, did you miss me that much?"

"And that's the first thing you say to me when you returned from your expedition? Yeah, you never change…"

"Would you want me to change? No, right?"

Silence. Narinder turned his red eyes toward the lattice. The clear outlines were not visible, but one thing was clear… The Lamb's face was turned directly at him. The eyes weren't visible, but there was a feeling that they were unwaveringly watching the cat.

"You… could you turn away? You're frightening even the God of Death…"

"Oh! Of course, sorry! I just got lost looking at you…"

The Sheep's head immediately dropped down. Awkward laughter sounded from behind the wall, and then one could hear fingers starting to nervously tap on something soft, echoing with a dull noise.

"Lambert… You… aren't angry with me?"

"Angry? Haha~ What are you talking about? Why would I be angry? Oh, don't tell me you ate all the fruits?! You promised to leave me some!"

"No, I didn't— Ah… Just forget it… There are fruits… I'll feed you as many fruits as you want…"

"Oh, you spoil me… I truly don't deserve it…"

"No. Listen… I'm glad you're whole. Very… If you ever feel lonely, then…"

"Come to your tent, right? Hah, how can I refuse such an offer? Of course! I'll come…"

A faint smile appeared on Narinder's face. He shifted a little closer to the wooden lattice wall and leaned his forehead against the holes in it. An astonished gasp sounded from the other side, and then the other head pressed against the wall.

They stayed in this position for minutes, though it felt like hours. Time stopped. Only Narinder's heartbeat could be heard.

Only one heart.

The God of Death closed his eyes. At last, he could enjoy everything he had. His sons, his cult… his Lambert. This was all he desired.

"Master… We need to hold the evening sermon… I still need to wash off the dirt from the expedition… Could you…?"

"Yes… Of course, I'll do it. You can rest, Lambert…"

The Lamb nodded and smiled gratefully. It was visible even through the confessional wall.

The Sheep pulled his head back and rose from his seat. The door opened, letting light flood the dark room. Narinder squeezed his eyes shut, then calmly watched as the Lamb walked away towards the light.

"… Lambert…"

The name echoed on the deity's lips. So pleasant, so familiar. So many times he had uttered it at night, fixing his gaze on the starry sky. So many times it had brought tears to his eyes. So many times he had cursed himself.

The God stood and also headed outside. Sunlight spilled over his scarlet robes, illuminating the dark fur and bones. He tilted his head up and looked straight at the orange sun. A ray struck his retina, making him turn his head away. But he still felt good. Free, as never before.

Unhurriedly, his feet walked towards the temple. The scents of fresh grass and wind pleasantly enveloped the cat's senses. His ears listened to the sounds coming from the forest. The quiet rustle of leaves, the singing of birds, dew trickling down grass stalks.

"Has life always been this beautiful? Then… death must truly be a tragedy…"

The God of Death raised his hand. The bony palm could barely cover the sun behind it, which was also diminishing in size on the horizon.

Finally, Narinder looked to the side. The massive doors of the temple loomed before him. The red boards glistened under the sun's rays. Pushing the door open, the God entered. The familiar scent hit his nose.

He walked forward and leaned his hand on the edge of the altar. The place that had once been stained with blood… The Lamb had never sacrificed young followers. He didn't even force anyone to give their life. It was voluntary… The elderly, who wanted to offer a final service to the cult, volunteered to be the sacrifice.

He never took lives by force.

He did not take lives.

Narinder did.

Blood.

The cat's pupils dilated. He looked at his hands. Blood dripped from them. Scarlet touches left marks on the altar, rolling down the stone surface. They traced patterns that only a careful gaze could decipher.

"Murderer"

"Sinner"

"Monster"

"Traitor"

A chill ran through Narinder's body. Fear, a panicky horror, twisted his stomach. He hadn't eaten anything, but it felt like he was about to vomit. A mixture of sweat and tears dripped from his face. His hands trembled.

"No-no-no-no… I brought him back… I'm not guilty… I'm not guilty… I didn't kill…"

He sank to his knees. His head lay on the cold pedestal. He didn't feel the liquid that would have remained on his fur. But right now, he didn't care.

"Please… forgive me… I'm not guilty… I just… wanted freedom…"

Sobs erupted from the God of Death's chest. He began to take sharp breaths. His body could barely inhale the air. He lifted his head slightly and dropped it again. A resounding thud echoed through the temple. Again and again.

Pain dulled his feelings. Pain prevented him from thinking. He continued to beat his head against the altar. Again and again.

Footsteps sounded. Someone abruptly opened the door, and then two pairs of legs quickly ran through the temple. Warm hands instantly grabbed the God of Death's shoulders.

"Master! Master! What's wrong with you? What are you doing?!"

Narinder had to raise his head. Small drops of blood dripped from his forehead. His red eyes moved to the altar… Only small red marks were visible there. The bony hands were clean too… There was no blood.

"I… I need to rest… Say that… there will be no sermon…"

"But Master… the followers will—"

"Brother…"

Aym sternly shook his head. Baal sighed and nodded. Together, they lifted Narinder to his feet and pulled him along. He had to bend down so they could hold onto his shoulders.

His eyes looked at the floor. Then at the grass. At the small path that led to his house. But did he see anything at all? Did he feel anything but the blood that still streamed down his hands? Down his soul?

Narinder did not know how much time passed before his head fell onto the pillow. A white pillow. White, like his wool.

"Lambert…"

The God of Death mumbled in his weak voice. Footsteps fussed around him. He still couldn't lift his head. So tired… So painful…

After some time, a voice was heard.

"Hm? So what's wrong with— Master? What's…"

"Lamb… No need for questions… You understand what needs to be done…"

"Ah! Mmm… Alright… Sorry…"

A hand lay on Narinder's back. Fingers slowly slid along the thin back of the God of Death. Then more pressure appeared. A body lay completely on him and wrapped its arms around his body.

"It's alright… I don't know what made you sad, but I'm here… You hear my voice, right? It's alright… See? Touch my wool… I'm here…"

Narinder turned his head to the side. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed a patch of white wool. Then he carefully rolled onto his back. The Lamb still continued to lie on him, but now hugged his chest.

"… Sorry… Lambert… I probably look… so pathetic…"

The Sheep shook his head. A small smile still remained on his face. Then he lowered his face and pressed against the black fur on Narinder's neck.

"You look wonderful… Narinder…"

"Hah… Silly Shepherd…"

Narinder looked at the small head. So small. But it was full of thoughts. Full of ideas about how to help everyone…

One eye was looking at him. The eye that watched from the Crown. That instrument that allowed Narinder to feel the warmth of this body again.

There was no one else in the room besides them. The kittens had left. How sweet of them… Decided not to interfere…

Narinder's hand rose and took hold of the Crown. The Lamb's body tensed. Then he began to slowly lift it. A slimy dark liquid stretched from the Crown to Lambert's head. When the God of Death pulled it far enough, a squelch was heard. The thin threads stopped stretching and returned to the white wool of the Shepherd.

The eye on the Crown calmly watched this. The Lamb's body also didn't move from its place. He continued to lie the same way, hiding his face in the cat's fur.

"… I tried to close this hole. So hard… Lambert… Please… Help me… I know that… I…"

Narinder placed the Crown on the nightstand next to the bed. Its eye observed what was happening monotonously.

"Master… Tell me, what do you want?"

"Hah… What do I want? I want… you. Your touches. I want you to be near. For all of us to play in the garden together… Me, Aym, Baal… you… Can you… help me?"

Lambert lifted his gaze. Bottomless dark eyes looked at the God of Death. Then the Shepherd nodded. Slowly. His smile didn't waver for an instant.

"Of course, Master! I will gladly keep you company! Isn't that what I'm here for?"

Yes… You returned for this. To… save me. That's precisely why I…

Burned your bones.

A smile. A wide, unchanging, eternal smile. Now you will never leave me again. Now you will no longer rot. You will be near.

"Stay here, alright? For the night… Don't go anywhere… Just… lie with me."

"With pleasure… You're so soft, Master!"

Narinder closed his eyes again. His heart began to beat slower. Calmer. Soon, his mind began to drift into the world of dreams. Constant anxiety and feelings exhausted him. Even the God of Death needed rest…

————————

Warmth… So warm. Why worry then? Why suffer? You're so warm. So pleasant in the embrace of this doll.

He became weak.

Became dependent.

Became worthless.

What happened to the God of Death?

Why does some mortal shell bring joy to this being?

It's so foolish. It's so pathetic.

This cannot continue.

———————————

Narinder yawned. He was lucky. He hadn't had nightmares that night. Perhaps the body lying next to him was the reason?

Despite the Lamb being motionless, one could notice his fingers sifting through the black fur on the God of Death's side. Quite a cute sight for the start of the day.

"Good morning… I see you're not asleep… Thought you could deceive God?"

"Deceive? Mmm… Of course not! And good morning to you too…"

Lambert rose on his elbows, reached his hand forward, and touched Narinder's nose, then quickly pulled his finger back. A playful expression appeared on his face, and then he burst into quiet laughter.

The God of Death shook his head, then suddenly straightened his back and firmly grabbed Lambert. His bony hands seized the Lamb's waist and pulled him close.

"You dare laugh at the God of Death? Perhaps I should send you to prison for such disrespect?"

"Oh, no! Not prison! What will I do if I can't see my God? You are so cruel…"

"Hah… You can atone for your guilt if… You know, why don't you practice with Aym? I'm sure he'll be glad to demonstrate his skills…"

Lambert shook his head from side to side, then nodded. His hand reached for the Crown. It obediently turned into a snake and crawled back onto the Shepherd's head.

"… You may go. I'll be here a bit longer, and then I'll conduct the morning sermon…"

"Alright! I hope you rest well, Master!"

The Lamb jumped off the bed and dashed away, fluttering his red robe. His body disappeared behind the doorway. The cat stared at a single point for several minutes, then stretched his bony paws upwards. A sigh full of pleasure escaped his mouth. The God of Death climbed out of bed and smoothed his clothes. They were a bit wrinkled, but he didn't care about that.

"… Narinder… The One Who Waits… I'm still waiting. Now I'm waiting for that idiot to be near… Hah… I wonder what they think about it…?"

Aym and Baal. They were his closest supporters. Always. At the moment when he no longer had family, when he had severed all ties with the past, only they remained.

He loved them. As a father loves his sons. If this world were plunged into chaos, Narinder would give everything for these kittens to see a happy future.

He was a little ashamed that they now had to share space in his heart with the Lamb. Of course, they had very vividly proven to him that they also loved Lambert, because he had freed them… But the cat still wanted to make amends. Especially now that the Shepherd had returned.

"Look, our daddy has turned into a rag… Can only cry and hug a Sheep… Hah… I'd die of shame if I heard that… No… They wouldn't say that, but… The very thought…"

"I need to pull myself together… Maybe go on an expedition? Get them something… They loved playing with balls of my fur as children… Find them some yarn?"

The cat stood up. Taking a few steps around the room, he approached the window, which was tightly covered with curtains. Pulling aside a piece of fabric, Narinder saw followers outside. Some of them were milling around their tents, and others were having breakfast near the open kitchen.

"… We achieved so much… Together. You gathered the foundation… You raised this little seed… I only reap the fruits of your labor… Am I worthy of this? Hah… Of course… You gave it strength. You were its support. This is merely your reward… Stop winding yourself up over trifles…"

A sigh. Earlier, the air in the God of Death's lungs would have been deathly cold, but since his return to the mortal world, it had begun to warm. Not just the air. Narinder's soul became warmer. Softer.

As the God approaches the door and places his paw on the handle, someone begins to knock loudly. Narinder pulls the door open. A panda stands before him. Her gaze is frightened. Her hands tremble, and her breath is ragged.

"What happened?"

"There… there… a corpse… Shiro… He… His… blood…"

Not managing to finish her thought, the girl turns away and hangs her head down. Narinder quickly raises his gaze, then grabs her hand.

"Take me there. I need to find out who did this."

"Y-yes… Sir… Lord…"

The follower quickly ran towards the temple near the cemetery. It wasn't very large, as most bodies were sent to the Afterlife using rituals. Burials were rare…

Rounding the corner of the crypt, Narinder first saw blood. And then the body.

The God of Death waved his hand, and the body soared into the air. The head of the dead follower hung down, unable to hold itself straight. Distinct holes were visible on the body, through which blood and innards flowed.

The panda was still standing nearby, but from her appearance, one could tell she was ready to faint. Narinder immediately turned her aside.

"You may go… Speak of this to no one. Take a sedative. I will tell about this incident at the evening sermon…"

The follower weakly nodded and trudged towards the medical hut. Narinder could only hope that the rumors wouldn't spread quickly. It was a rare case when a follower was killed on the camp's territory. Wild animals had never attacked them so directly…

"Hah… There are no tracks nearby… The creature either flew or knows how to hide its presence well…"

"The wounds… are too precise. As if from a huge beak… A weapon couldn't have left such large holes in the chest…"

"Damn it all… I don't even know if this is the only victim. Did this beast attack to eat? Or was it provoked? Why here? The smell of corpses? They're deep underground…"

Narinder lowered the body to the ground. His fingers touched his chin. Red eyes thoughtfully surveyed the surroundings. Of course, the death of one follower wasn't that big a problem… But the God of Death promised these mortals protection. His authority rested on this. His faith. If such incidents continued, then…

"The Lamb… Can he find this creature? No… I can't burden him with work. He just returned, and I… I need to prove that I'm worthy. I must do this myself… Whatever this is… I am the God of Death! How dare…"

The light in Narinder's eyes became a bright crimson. Anger rose from the depths of his soul. He had peace. He had family. He had a cult. How can some creature interfere and ruin everything he built together with the Lamb?!

For him. For himself. For everyone. This matter must be settled. This must be stopped.

—————————-

All morning, a shadow lay on the God of Death's face. The morning sermon sounded as usual, but suspicions crept into the followers. Having spent years listening to Narinder, they began to recognize when he was out of sorts.

The mortals' bows became deeper, and their eyes did not dare look at the altar during the God's speech.

The cat saw this. But he could not change anything. He couldn't be like Lambert. Couldn't smile when clouds were in his head.

Problems that appeared out of nowhere darkened his mood.

Finally, concluding his speech, he waved his hand toward the exit.

"Everyone is free. Rest well and get to work. Be careful…"

Red eyes noticed a small spotted body. The panda, who had shown him the body, was hastily leaving the temple. The impact of the find was noticeable in her gait. Even if many followers see rituals that aren't always pleasant, there are those who don't attend them and remain outside. The cult does not forbid skipping these 'colorful' scenes. But that's precisely why a sudden and violent murder can so unsettle innocent mortals.

Narinder turned his back to the entrance. A tall window appeared before him. The stained glass depicted a Crown. Light filtered through the dark glass pieces, bathing the cat's fur in crimson shades.

The Crown. His main weapon. The sign of his divinity. He hadn't felt its presence on his head for several days now. Sometimes it frightened him, but he didn't think about it. He was happy.

But he had an enemy. One who must be killed with the help of this Crown. But it had a different role. If he took it back, then…

"I'll manage myself. I don't need this instrument… The Lamb… is more important than this…"

——————————-

Narinder watched as Aym and the Shepherd fought on the edge of the forest, which was located on the outskirts of the camp. Sword clashed with scythe. Despite the tension in the air, smiles shone on their faces.

Baal sat nearby, pressed against the God of Death. He shouted words of encouragement. Although they were directed not at his brother…

"Go, Lamb! Hit him harder! Now with a spin! Show him!"

Aym barely had time to throw angry glances in his direction, but still did not miss Lambert's blows.

But the kitten's strength was not infinite. He started to tire, and at a critical moment…

Poke. The sword blade stopped near Aym's neck. The Shepherd shrugged and moved his weapon aside.

"My win. You fought excellently. How long have we been doing this? An hour? Two? Mmm… Want some water?"

"Ha… Go to hell. I'm fine… Next time, I'll finish our match in half an hour! And you'll be crawling on your knees, understand, Sheep?"

"Heh, of course! Try your best! I can't wait until you become stronger than me! You won't mind if I dump all my expeditions on you, right? Then I won't have to do anything at all!"

"Ha! Of course I don't— WAIT WHAT?! HEY! Don't you dare!"

"Pfft… Haha, just kidding. God, I'd never do that…"

Lambert was already hugging Aym, who was angrily scratching and trying to wriggle out of the Lamb's grip, but unsuccessfully.

Baal came closer and shook his head with a grin on his lips. He ruffled his brother's hair and giggled.

"How's that for a reward for your training? Nice to hug the Shepherd, huh?"

"Yeah, you idiot… As if I have a choice…"

Baal laughed again. Unfortunately for him, he couldn't react when a hand grabbed him and pulled him towards his brother. Lambert started hugging both of them together, which slightly squeezed the space between them.

"AAA… No-no! I have nothing to do with this! Let go! I was just standing nearby!"

"Hahaha! Take that! That's what happens to those who talk back!"

Children. These two are still so young. The Lamb handles them so well. I'm sure he already knows they love him. Look at their little faces. They turn away, but I know… They press against his soft wool. Just like they pressed against mine.

I don't regret anything. And I won't start regretting, even if I have to pay for their happiness.

My life is not worth—

"Master! Help!! He's going to smother us!"

"Stop wriggling, Aym… Where do you get the strength to yell?"

The figure of the God of Death slowly approached. His hand carefully removed the fingers from the kittens' fur, then nudged the Lamb closer.

"Lambert, how about a trade? You give me these two, and in return you get me… Well? Agreed?"

"Oh, how tempting! You know how to bargain, don't you, Master? Alright!"

The God of Death smirked and knelt down. Lambert's arms immediately wrapped around his neck, and then the little body pressed against his shoulders.

The kittens, meanwhile, nimbly slipped aside and moved to a safe distance. When Lambert turned his head and smiled in their direction, they jumped a little further back…

"Wow… They haven't shied away like that for many years. Probably not since the moment I told them about the evil monster that eats the wool of disobedient kittens…"

"Master! Stop telling this Shepherd all sorts of lies! We were never afraid of any monster!"

"Really? I thought, Aym, you cried at night and said you didn't want to go bald…"

"M… Master?! You… Lambert! Don't listen to him! He's making it up! It never happened! Right, Baal?"

"Welllll… I vaguely remember something like that…"

"GO TO HELL!"

Narinder didn't hold back the laughter that came from his throat. He loved the quarrels of these little kittens. But it was more pleasant to remember the past. Their childhood.

Watching these kittens grow up was the main joy of Narinder's entire life while he sat imprisoned.

"Lambert, am I a good father?"

"Hm…? Why such a strange question? Well, if you're asking me… Yes! You are definitely a very kind God!"

"Thank you… And you?"

"I…? Well, I don't know… Why do you ask?"

Because you are part of my life.

"Because I was curious. You get along well with Aym and Baal. I'm sure you would have had a good family…"

"Oh, you flatter me! The kittens just love playing with me! I'm very lucky, that's all! And anyway, I should thank them! I have so much fun!"

Narinder shrugged indifferently. Inside his chest, a heart was beating. He still couldn't… Not now. When everything is settled. When everything is good.

After some time, the kittens found the courage to come closer. Aym still clutched a scythe in his hands, and Baal kept behind him.

"Um… Not to intrude, but can we go eat? I'm terribly hungry after training… No, I'm not insisting. If Master wants to stay here, then—"

"Ah, yes… Forgive me. If you want, you can blame Lambert. He's the one who wouldn't let me go…"

"Eh…? Master! Don't shift the blame onto me!!"

Narinder laughed and headed with his kittens towards the kitchen. His hand still held the Shepherd's palm, squeezing it firmly in his bony fingers.

—————————

Mortals began to gather at the wooden doors of the temple. The little panda sat, leaning against the wall. Several followers were near her, holding her shoulders.

All day, she had been holding in the panic. The God ordered her to be silent, but it was getting harder and harder. Until this very moment.

The One Who Waits said he would announce the deceased at the evening sermon. Minutes remained… Soon she could forget about this secret.

Though 'forget' was not the word. It was just that the whole camp would learn about this secret. Learn that one of them had been killed. Pierced right through the chest.

"What if they think it was me? I couldn't have… I'm just… me! No-no… Nonsense! Just forget about it! Forget about the body… Forget about…"

Her eyes rose. She saw the God of Death carrying nothing other than a dead body in his arms. It was covered with cloths, but that didn't hide the fact that its limbs were dangling in the air.

The panda was silent. She bit her tongue to keep from screaming. Though the others didn't look great either.

Usually, the elderly died. Those who had already accepted death. But the followers knew who hadn't come to today's sermon.

There were those who were sick, those who slept. But only one person hadn't been seen by any follower.

A young fawn. Found in the forest quite recently. He rarely spoke about how he ended up alone, but… many had a similar story. The lands of the Old Faith hadn't become safer just because the Evil Gods were no more. Creatures that hunted weak mortals still inhabited this place. And often, they managed to find prey.

The God of Death entered the temple. The animals unhurriedly followed him. The panda looked around, searching for support. The Lamb usually spoke words of encouragement for those who felt bad… But Lambert wasn't nearby now.

"I don't want to… Don't want to watch… Don't want to be there!"

She rose from the ground. Pushing away the beasts near her, she rushed straight ahead. Away from the temple. Away from that body. From empty eyes.

She didn't look back until she reached the end. The forest stretched before her. Dense and dark. The evening sun barely illuminated the trees that formed a solid wall.

Only now did she realize she was alone. Around her, birds sang and the wind rustled. But there were no sounds of voices. All of them were left behind. Far away.

"Oh… No-no… I need to go back… No…"

How did that creature kill the deer? Quickly? Slowly? Eating him alive?

It was a mistake. Leaving from there was a mistake. What if that creature is still around? Looking for a new victim… A weak little panda that strayed from the group…

"No… Don't come closer… I…"

"Hey! Are you lost?"

The girl turned around. Before her stood one of the closest followers of the God of Death. Although many in the camp simply called them his children…

"Baal? Is that… Is that you? Can you lead me back? To… the others…"

"Ah, of course! Honestly, you're lucky. I was just about to head to the temple… Why did you end up here?"

"Ah… Well, I just…"

The panda hesitated and nervously touched her arm, then stood next to the black cat. Her eyes dropped in shame. She still didn't know if she could tell about seeing the body and that it was the reason for her panic…

"Let's just go, alright? We need to hurry or we'll miss the entire ritual…"

"Right! They'll be preserving that body, won't they?"

".. that body?"

"Well, yeah! Father said someone died. That's why we're holding a ritual today…"

Hah…? He said father? And… Ah! He's talking about Narinder… Strange, I've never heard them call him that… Maybe he's just embarrassed to say it when others are around? That's… even kind of cute.

The panda smiled slightly. Baal joyfully strode along the camp paths. His head swayed slowly in time with his steps. Finally, after some time, they approached the temple. No one was left outside, and a loud speech from Narinder could be heard from within. Baal stopped and let the panda go ahead.

"Thank you… I owe you… Baal, are you…?"

"Huh? Nah, I'm not going. I still have things to do! Good luck! Listen to father! He has lots of good advice!"

"Uh-huh… Alright…"

The panda nodded, then squeezed through the half-open door. On tiptoe, she approached the crowd and merged with the group. Her ears caught the God's words.

"…and therefore I decided that until I resolve this problem, any exit from the camp is forbidden for our followers… I can only rely on your reasonableness. This rule is implemented for your own safety…"

The panda nodded. She herself had nearly made this mistake. If a God was watching over them, such incidents shouldn't happen…

Her gaze shifted sideways. For a second, she blinked, then rubbed her eyes. Two figures stood behind Narinder. Two black cats.

"Huh…? But… Baal said he had things to do, didn't he?"

She mumbled under her nose. Her words were drowned in the God of Death's voice. He seemed to be just finishing. The body, fortunately, was no longer visible, so the panda could freely catch her breath.

A bony hand waved in the air, and the crowd stirred. Many whispered amongst themselves as they exited the temple. The panda had no choice but to follow everyone. When she came out, she waited by the entrance. A few moments later, the two brothers appeared from behind the doors. She approached Baal and touched his shoulder.

"Nah, I didn't see him, what— Oh? Oh, hi… Did you need something?"

"No, just… You led me to the temple, right? But how were you inside when I came in? Is it some magic trick?"

"Trick…? Wait, wait. What are you talking about?"

Confusion flickered in his eyes. Usually, no one spoke to the brothers. Partly out of fear of angering their father, and partly because of their personalities… They didn't try to get close to anyone either.

Aym giggled and nudged his brother in the shoulder. A small smirk appeared on his face.

"Hey, maybe it's a hint for you, don't you think? Alright, I'll leave you two alone… Good luck, panda…"

"Eh…? Well, thanks… I guess…"

Aym headed in another direction, laughing loudly. This left the panda in even greater bewilderment. She still didn't understand why Baal was acting so strange.

"Forget about him. So, what are you talking about? We didn't see each other earlier?"

"Didn't see each other? Haha, don't joke like that! You were there with me! Well, when I ran away… Remember? Or did you hit your head?"

"What are you on about? You're the one who hit your head! I was with Aym the whole time… Eh, never mind… Maybe you confused me with someone? Some black dog? I don't know…"

"Well, no… I don't think so… Okay, sorry… Um… Thanks…"

Baal shrugged and left, giving a small wave in her direction. The panda remained standing in place with her head turned. That was… strange.

——————————

"Lambert… Do you like the sun? When I look at it, then… I think about the freedom I received."

"The sun? Yes, of course! It feels so nice on the skin! Like thousands of tiny hands stroking you all at once…"

"Does it? Hah… I'm even a little jealous of those hands…"

"What?"

"Nothing. Don't mind it…"

Lambert nodded and turned his head towards the sun, which was slowly hiding behind the horizon. The wind blew through their clothes and tickled their fur. From the roof of the temple, there was a wonderful view.

The cat raised his head and took a breath. Sometimes, he just needed to forget all worries. Forget everything while the wind blew on his face.

"Narinder… Tell me, what do you think of me?"

Hah…

This question… It carries so much in itself. Does this Lamb know what he just asked? Or is it an innocent game for him?

"Well, you're a silly little lamb who constantly smiles and bustles about for the good of the cult… As a follower, you do your job excellently. As a friend, you always lift my spirits…"

"And is that all?"

"And… that's all."

For now, my dear Shepherd. For now, the truth must be hidden from you. You should only expect friendship from me. But… soon everything will change. Like this sun that hides behind the horizon… It will rise soon. And when the warm rays touch us again, I will tell you the whole truth…

"Let's go to sleep. Are you staying at my place again tonight?"

"Hm? Well, why not? If you cry again, you'll have to wash my wool from your tears…"

"No… I won't cry. Not today…"

Not with you.

———————————-

Traitor.

Apostate.

Your duty was to keep these mortals in fear.

What have you achieved?

Their love is as empty as their souls.

Your methods are naive.

Do you really think you can save everyone?

You couldn't save anyone. Not even your own family.

—————————

"Morning!"

A finger touched the black nose of the God of Death. Narinder squeezed his eyes shut in displeasure, then rubbed his eyes and blinked.

"Lamb… Didn't I say I like to sleep in?"

"Hm? Nope. Don't remember that!"

"Then I'm telling you now… Shut up or I'll bite off your wool…"

"Mmm… Not the tastiest diet in the morning… May I recommend something else?"

Just kiss me, will you? That's the only taste I want to feel in my mouth.

"No. Don't bother… I'm already awake… You can get off me…"

"What if I don't get off?"

"Then I'll push you off… Why are you so stubborn today? Did you dream something?"

"You could say that…"

Narinder slid off the bed and took a small glass of water from the nightstand. Splashing the cold liquid down his throat, he blinked a couple of times and turned back to the bed.

Lambert was in a strange pose. One leg crossed over the other, lying on his side. A surprisingly beautiful pose for such a small being.

To an outside observer, the Lamb might seem cute or even funny, but for the God of Death…

…Damn. The main thing is to hold back… The main thing is not to give in to provocation… Just look at this Sheep… He knows what he's doing to me… It's obvious from his eyes…

"Get off my bed. Woke me up, and now you'll lounge on my bed? What's next? Steal my tail?"

"Maybe… It looks very cute… Sometimes I want to grab it when you're not looking."

Don't. You don't know what sound I'll make if you grab my tail. Better not to…

Narinder took a couple of steps forward, then lifted Lambert by his waist and threw him over his shoulder.

"If you don't want me to carry you like this all day, just say you'll behave and I'll let you down…"

"Narinder… I'm quite comfortable… Can I stay like this until the end of the day?"

"… You can."

"Yay… Thank you, Master…"

——————————-

The brothers exchanged glances. Then Baal slowly raised his hand and turned his gaze to Narinder.

"Master, can I ask a question?"

"Of course, ask."

"Why is the Shepherd… lying like that?"

"I'm just keeping my promise. The Lamb is feeling especially pathetic today, so he decided to use me as a means of transportation…"

Lambert lightly hit the cat's back with a small hand, but the cat didn't even flinch. Fortunately, the God of Death had enough strength to lug this fluffy little body around all day. Luckily for both of them.

Narinder may not admit it, but the feeling of the hands holding onto the black fur was quite pleasant. Not to mention how close the Lamb's face was to his neck.

"Just ignore him… So, did you two want to talk about something?"

Baal glanced at the body still hanging on the God's shoulder, but then continued speaking.

"Well… Yes, sort of… Anyway… Brother wanted to ask something!"

"Huh?! Tch… Seriously? You can't even ask? Fine, so be it… Master, Baal wanted to ask if we are allowed to communicate with other followers. You know, find friends there and all that…"

"Friends…? Oh, I have nothing against it… But be careful. Stick together… Today I'll need to go somewhere, so I won't be able to watch over you…"

"Ah, don't worry, Master! If this blockhead gets into trouble, I'll help him!"

"Thank you. I'm glad… By the way, I didn't ask, but what gave you the idea to make friends? Just curious… You've never talked about it before…"

Aym shrugged, then pushed Baal forward. Baal looked back with slight offense, then shifted his gaze to Narinder.

"I just thought we needed friends, and it would be strange if we only talked to each other all the time…"

"Hm… Reasonable. I acted a bit wrong by protecting you so much… Of course, make friends. I'd hug you, but…"

"Mmhmm…"

Said the body hanging on him. Baal nodded understandingly and pressed slightly against Narinder's chest. Aym did the same. Then the brothers headed together to the kitchen where the followers were having breakfast.

The God of Death saw his children start a conversation with a group of beasts. Pride shone in his red eyes, but then it was replaced by determination. Today, he would go into the forest and find that creature that was disturbing his peace.

"Alright, I've gotten stiff… everywhere. Help me get down…"

And you too are part of this happy family.

"Yes, of course. Right away…"

Narinder knelt down and allowed Lambert to jump down. His hands released the black cat's neck. Three red eyes followed as the Lamb dusted himself off and straightened his white wool. When his head lifted up, the God of Death averted his gaze to the side.

"And where are you going today? Do you have secrets? A date?"

"Don't joke like that, Shepherd… I just want to take a walk in the forest. No, you cannot come with me. It's strictly forbidden… Didn't you hear about the murder? Even you could be caught by this creature…"

"Come on! I've killed Gods. If it killed one mortal, that doesn't mean it can wound me…"

"Yes, but… We don't know how it got into the camp. My powers should have detected it… Or stopped it…"

"Oh, you worry too much! Ah, you're probably scared for the kittens? Think they can't defend themselves?"

"No, but… They are strong. I understand that perfectly, but… I am a father. I can't just watch a creature roam the forest that could come into the camp at any moment and kill someone."

"True enough… Good luck, Master. I hope you don't die~ Haha, just kidding."

"Thank you… Don't worry. I won't die. But this beast, on the other hand…"

Lambert nodded. A wide grin appeared on his face again. The Crown flashed its red eye and looked at the face of the God of Death. Their eyes met. Narinder gave a weak nod and walked towards the camp exit. The sooner he dealt with this, the better…

———————————

A branch cracked under a black foot. In the God of Death's hands was a large scythe. A weapon he had rarely used before, since divine powers were at his command. The Crown had always served as his sword.

In the distance, a quiet howl was heard. Red eyes twitched at the sound. A hand tensed, then loosened its grip.

"Just beasts… No… This creature is not a simple animal… It left no trace…"

Narinder sighed. His hands dropped wearily. He had to wander this forest all day. He didn't even know if this creature would come out against him. Maybe it already knew it was being hunted.

The God of Death continued on. Further into the forest. The sun still stood high above the horizon. The trees helped with the heat, but the robes slightly choked Narinder's body.

He wandered among the tree trunks, scrutinized every shadow, turned at every noise.

Nothing. There wasn't even a trace that some creature had made its lair here. No blood trails. As if nothing had changed in the forest at all.

What was even more surprising was that small animals still ran around the forest. Hares, squirrels, birds… They carefreely walked and consumed nature's gifts.

Shouldn't a predator eat everything that catches its eye? Why did this creature attack the camp?

Narinder was starting to panic. After hours of being here, the black cat had lost all hope of meeting this creature. Moreover, he couldn't even understand if it existed!

Something definitely killed the follower. And this something did it so quickly that no one could even detect it. Neither him, nor the Lamb.

"Damn… I'm going home. This is pointless… I need to find some kind of bait… Does it love innards? Is that why it pierced that mortal?"

His paw stepped onto the grass again. But then a new sound was heard. A cry. Too familiar. Too important.

"LAMB! WHAT THE…?!"

Narinder bolted as if his whole walk had lasted no more than an hour. His body maneuvered among the trees. Finally, his gaze stopped on the spot.

The Lamb stood, clutching his small chest. Blood flowed profusely from his side. His hand barely held a dark sword, though it seemed the hand itself was barely attached to the piece of meat left of his shoulder. It all looked as if the Sheep had been jabbed multiple times by something very sharp and massive.

The God of Death placed his hand on Lambert's side. His heart raced in panic. He felt a strange movement under his fingers. When the cat raised his hand, new flesh was already beginning to heal over the wound, covering each other with black goo.

"Everything… is fine… Hah… You weren't lying… This creature… is damn fast…"

"HOW MANY TIMES DO I HAVE TO TELL YOU…?!"

Narinder wanted to shout at the Lamb, but he noticed the pallor on his face. The cat's hands immediately lifted Lambert's body. A weak smile was reflected on the Shepherd's face.

"Sorry… You were gone so long… I wanted to check… and then…"

"You were attacked… This is my fault… You… How are you? Lambert, you won't die, will you?"

"Hah… Die? No… Just give me a day… My body takes a long time to recover…"

Narinder looked at the Crown. It seemed slightly darker than usual. A flame raged in its eye. Either from the just-finished fight, or from intense use of power for regeneration.

"… Forgive me… It's my fault that… I allowed you to be here… If I had found this beast…"

"Shhh… Master… It was my decision… Let's return to camp… I feel sleepy…"

"Yes… Yes, of course… Back… to camp…"

Where it's safe.

Where you won't be hurt.

Won't be hurt anymore.

Because of me.

————————————

Narinder bent over the bed. The blanket covered the lower part of the Lamb's body. Fingers, from which only bones remained, covered the Lamb's little hand.

The wounded Shepherd lay with his eyes closed, taking weak breaths. His shoulder was bandaged with white cloth that went under the blanket.

Next to them, on the other side of the bed, stood Aym and Baal. Their eyes watched the Lamb, as clear unease showed on their features. They didn't say a word.

A grave silence stood in the room.

Lambert slowly opened his dark eyes and looked around. His face still smiled, but weakness showed on his lips. He tried to lift his hand, but it only hung in the air and fell back onto the blanket.

"Don't move. I'm not sure your body has fully recovered… It might take a little more time… Just lie there…"

"… I'm sorry. I made you worry… It's just a small wound. It will heal soon…"

"IT'S NOT JUST A WOUND!"

"…"

"You were in pain. Your body… It was pierced… I know you've been through a lot, but… You shouldn't just… treat it like a joke… Not anymore. I don't want to see your suffering…"

Lambert's eyes widened in surprise. It was the first time he had heard these words.

Earlier, when the One Who Waits sent him against the Bishops, the God did not care about his deaths. Sometimes he expressed support, but at other times Narinder just said: "The goal justifies the sacrifice. My freedom must be achieved. You are strong enough."

Now, genuine worry shone in the cat's eyes. The years he spent without the Lamb among mortals had affected him. Narinder had rethought his actions, his words.

Spending nights before Lambert's grave, the black cat replayed all their conversations in his mind. Every word uttered from those lips.

"Lambert, please… If you need to go somewhere, wait for me. I will be near you. Always… Whenever you need… Please, just be careful…"

"Alright… But what about the others? Our followers should be safe too…"

"I… will think about it. Right now, you need rest. You can think about them later…"

Narinder bent closer and touched Lambert's face with his forehead. The Lamb clung to his fur and let out a small sigh. He made a slight wave of his hand.

Aym and Baal turned together and exited the room. Narinder shifted his head slightly and laid it on the blanket covering the Lamb's legs. His red eyes closed.

"Forgive me…"

————————————

"Ah, working in the garden was always soothing. May the One Who Waits bless this day! I didn't even have nightmares! Honestly, I certainly didn't think I'd feel so calm after everything I went through… Maybe it's because of Baal? Well, I'm probably just glad I was helped then… —Ow!"

The panda pulled her finger back. A small prick remained on it. She shifted her gaze to the side and looked at a Camellia flower, which treacherously swayed from side to side. A small scarlet drop remained on its thorn.

"There it is… Ugh. Okay, maybe the garden isn't as nice a place as I thought… Stupid flowers… You're not even tasty… Who even decided you help with illnesses? You cause pain too. Just like—"

A hand lay on her shoulder, making the follower flinch. She raised her eyes and saw a familiar cat. There was a small smile on his face. He moved and sat down nearby, then plucked a flower and brought it to his nose. Smelling its aroma, he turned his head to the panda.

"Want to see a trick? Watch…"

And then the flower was engulfed in flames. In a second, it turned into a small pile of ash, which scattered onto the ground. The cat giggled quietly and smiled at her.

"Wow… I just knew father taught you some tricks…"

"Father…? Ah, the Lord… Well, it's not really a trick… We just had a lot of free time before. We had to occupy ourselves somehow… So he taught me and my brother all sorts of cool things… Too bad Aym never understood that magic is a hundred times cooler than swinging a sword… well, or a scythe…"

"Heh… Yeah. I think magic is cooler too… Fighting with weapons is just a bit… boring?"

"Just don't tell him. He hears that from me constantly anyway. If you start telling him that too, I'm afraid he'll fall into depression completely… Haha…"

Baal shook his head and started laughing. The panda joined in after him. A small smile blossomed on her face.

"Baal, want to go somewhere together? Maybe get something to drink? Ah… Are you allowed to drink? I think everyone's allowed except really small kids…"

"Master said something about it… Let me think… So… I think it's okay? Just not much. Don't want to make a scene…"

The panda nodded and rose to her feet. She was slightly shorter than Baal, so she had to tilt her head up a bit to look into his face. Into his red eyes…

"Baal, what happened to the Leader? I heard he was brought into camp wounded… Well, I didn't see him personally, but others are whispering…"

"Ah… The Lamb is unwell. But he's recovering already! He'll soon be able to conduct sermons again… Master is worried… Probably, his movement will be restricted or something…"

"Hah… Well, isn't the Shepherd a God? I've heard so many stories about him… Well, since you say he's alright, then… Mmm… Can you tell the Shepherd that I was worried about him? It wouldn't be bad if you put in a word for me…"

"Huh? Well, why not… Only I wouldn't ask to be his favorite… Master doesn't like rivals…"

"Rivals? What do you mean?"

"Ah… So you don't know? I thought everyone in camp already knew. Well… So, you know my Master and the Lamb spend a lot of time together, right?"

"Well, our Leader serves his God… Besides, they met again after a long separation… I don't see anything strange…"

"Yes-yes, but… Have you ever thought that always sitting together, holding hands, and hugging is a little…"

"Excessive? Nah, I don't think so. Let me guess… You think they're dating? Like a couple?"

"… Yes. Exactly. You don't think so?"

"No, I just don't want to pry into their personal lives. There's this bearess who writes stories about them… Well, I tried reading…"

For a moment, the Panda's cheeks turned pinker. She shook her head and took a deep breath.

"Anyway, I don't care what's going on with them… I just want to thank the Shepherd for his help. If you're afraid I'll steal your father's lover, you needn't fear… I'm not interested in romance…"

"Really? I expected something else from you… I mean, not that I thought you'd actually butt in or anything… But…"

"Enough already, okay? I get what you want to say. Anyway, you need to stop judging people by your expectations…"

"Yeah. Sorry… Mmm… So what did you want to drink?"

——————————

Two days had already passed.

The black cat hadn't left the Lamb's bedside for a single step.

The God of Death did not need food. Hunger did not gnaw at his body.

But another kind of mold grew inside him.

"I bring you pain. Only pain. I promised that I would bring you back and we would live happily together… Happily. Why can't I keep this promise? Why is fate so unfair?"

"All I wanted was a quiet life… It seems the God of Death is still not ready to let go of his sins, eh? I still have to pay for everything I've done… Fate takes everything most precious from me…"

Narinder looked at the sleeping face of his most precious follower. His Lamb. At his soft features. At the small mouth that smiled so often. At the white wool that so beckoned to be touched. Everything about him was so wonderful…

And all this beauty was stained with blood. Twice. A grimace of pain. Narinder couldn't forgive himself for this. He wanted to learn from his mistakes, wanted to become better, and what was the result? He allowed the Shepherd to go into the forest to meet a dangerous creature. He not only didn't help him but also didn't find the creature itself.

A black palm lifted the blanket. In that place where the wound had previously been, a black viscous liquid was appearing. It covered the empty spot, tightly clinging to Lambert's skin. The Crown looked at the God of Death. It was impossible to read what was going on in the mind of this instrument. This relic.

It was used to put the Lamb back together. To connect what was left of his body. Narinder couldn't stifle the loss. Not then, not now.

He hated losing. Power, freedom, friends, family… He tried to hide his grief deep inside his dark soul. At the very bottom of his heart. But it ached unbearably.

Lambert's return was akin to a gulp of fresh air on a hot day for him. He was able to feel alive. But now, looking at the body sprawled before him, the cat could only wait. Wait for his return. Wait until he hears his laughter again.

"Master, you have left your cult. You know that 2843 minutes have passed since you left your post… Followers cannot serve an empty spot. They need a God…"

An even, quiet voice. Not a drop of emotion could be read in it. The speaker's mood could only be guessed from the meaning of the words. The Red Crown gleamed with its single gaze.

"I know… I must return… But I can't leave him. Not like this… Not now. Just keep healing him. Focus on that, alright? The sooner he gets on his feet, the sooner I'll return to the cult…"

Silence hung. The eye roamed the room several times, then stopped on the Lamb's body.

"…. Very well. It will be done, Master."

Narinder sighs. His eyes close. He simply cannot leave. Not now. His heart lies next to the Lamb. You can't just… let him go.

—————————

The moon shone on a clearing and illuminated a small bar counter. Only two little beasts sat behind it. The rest had already dispersed to their tents.

"…and then I had to drag Aym away from that deer, otherwise they would've started a fight right next to the toilet…"

"Haha, oh god… I actually feel sorry for you. With a brother like that, you need eyes in the back of your head. I probably would've just given up on everything…"

"Well, it's not so much my concern now… For some reason, a lot has happened lately. First, the Lamb returned, then that corpse… Now this…"

A black head nods slightly towards Narinder's house. Then he sighs tiredly and slumps down onto the bar counter in front of him. His shoulders drop down.

"Sorry. I probably sound like a total loser… Whining to you about my problems… Shall we drink more?"

"It's okay… Well, the bartender already left… I don't think we can just take something ourselves. Don't want to get poisoned…"

"Well, alright… Hm? Listen, look over there…"

The panda turned around and looked in the direction the black paw was pointing. The shadows seemed thicker where the grave's stench settled on the earth. Gravestones stood, turned towards the camp, as reminders of their mortality.

That place where the body was found.

The panda recoiled. Her eyes opened wider. She glanced at Baal with a silent question.

"Look… There. Behind. Among the trees… Do you see it?"

"Baal, can I not look over there? You know, I don't have the best memories associated with that place… Whatever you see there, we better not meddle…"

Baal shook his head and looked at her. A small flame appeared in his hand. The cat stood up from his spot and took a couple of steps towards it. The panda grabbed his hand and stopped him.

"Don't. If… Listen, you don't know what it is there, right? Isn't it silly to go there when no one can help you? I certainly can't… Neither the Lord nor the Shepherd is nearby…"

"You're… right. Sorry…"

Red eyes still looked into the darkness above the graves. There, among the night shadows, a small scarlet light burned. A small eye. It was barely distinguishable, but…

Baal shook his head. It was better to slowly retreat now, tell Master about it, and then—

Black liquid touched his foot. Darkness consumed everything. Darkness became everything.

——————————

Open eyes surveyed the room. Everything was as before. Sunlight streamed in through the window. A small smile appeared on the face.

Hands removed the Crown from their head. Its eye looked pleased. Then palms calmly stroked the black texture.

The door opened. In a few steps, the black cat ran to the Lamb and embraced him.

"Lambert? You're feeling better, yes? You woke up again… Is everything alright…?"

"Yes… I'm better now… Much better…"

Fingers lay on the scruff of the black fur and squeezed. Lambert's face lay on the shoulder of the God of Death. He chuckled quietly, then moved to the side.

His feet touched the floor. Then the Shepherd briskly stood up and spun around himself.

"As good as new! Excellent! Oh, I feel so wonderful! Haha~"

"Ah… That's great, Lamb… I'm glad… So… can we go together? To the others… Probably, everyone already misses us…"

"Exactly, exactly! They all probably want to see you so badly… You've been sitting here the whole time! Do you think they've already forgotten your face?"

"Hah, I don't think our followers have such a short memory…"

"Well… Shall we go and see for ourselves?"

The fluffy little body grabbed the bony hand of the God of Death and pulled him toward the door.

The street met them with emptiness. Not a single follower was in front of their house. Narinder looked around with indignation. Then his nose caught a familiar smell…

"Blood? What's going on here… Lamb, stay behind me. I need to check what happened…"

Red eyes saw a short black figure running towards the two of them. Baal looked alarmed. He caught his breath and began nervously pointing towards behind the temple.

"Th-there… There… Aym…"

"Let's go! Damn, Lambert, stay inside! It's dangerous here!"

Narinder rushed after Baal, who immediately started moving towards the main building of the camp. The God of Death didn't even glance back at the Lamb. In his hand, a huge scythe appeared, cutting the air in a small arc.

Damn it… I shouldn't have left them alone. Again. I made a mistake again. But if they're not dead, I can heal them… And if… They're just in the afterlife… I can bring them back… It's happened before… Followers returned… Everything will be…

"Baal…? Why is there nothing here?"

"Daddy, have you thought about how you treated all of us?"

"What are you talking about—"

"Brother. You killed us all. Remember us?"

What?

No-no.

That voice…

"Leshy?"

"You killed us, brother. You became our doom."

"Heket…"

"Your greed sent us to the grave."

"Kallamar…"

"You were always a fool, brother. Our blood is on your hands."

"Shamura…"

The cat's head turned. Four figures stood behind him. The Bishops of the Old Faith. The lower part of their bodies erupted from the ground in the form of black ooze. Their bodies were full of wounds. The same darkness dripped from them…

Then another figure stepped forward.

White wool was covered with darkness, which shimmered over the Shepherd's entire body. Small clinging tendrils grabbed at the ground around and pulled the body forward. A wide smile appeared on the creature's face. Then Lambert's bright eyes grew darker, until the eyeballs exploded. Dark liquid spread over the Lamb's entire skin.

Through the dark ooze on his face, one red eye opened.

"The Lamb died because of you. Your relatives died because of you… And now…"

The creature raised a hand. It swung and threw two pale spheres. They rolled along the ground.

Narinder lowered his gaze. Two skulls. Smooth, but wide holes were visible in them, through which black slime seeped inside.

"Your kittens have also fallen by your hand."

The God of Death fell to his knees. A stream of air burst from his mouth. His throat constricted. Bony fists pounded the earth. Again and again.

"You clung to the Lamb's life… So strongly. That was your mistake. You forgot who you are. You forgot what you are… The God of Death."

"You wore me on your head for thousands of years. I was imprisoned in the Afterlife along with you… Where did your ambitions go? Where did your divinity go?"

"I faithfully served the Lamb. I cut down enemies at his command. But he too laid down his head for you… He renounced my gift. And then you… began to cling to his life…"

"You put his bones into me. You ordered me… to be him. I knew who he was. I saw his every thought throughout his entire life…"

"I tried to give you a chance, former Master… But you continued to show weakness…"

"You could not protect anyone. Not the cult, not your friends, not your kin…"

"You are pathetic, Narinder…"

"I will be free… I will build a new world. A new cult. One that will know the true God of Death, not a pretender…"

Smoke rose from the walls of the temple. The red walls of the building began to be consumed by flame. But no screams were heard. Only silence and wind…

"I have already killed all these pitiful mortals. They served a false God for so many years… Indulged your desires… Disgusting…"

Narinder clutched the bones of the kittens to his chest. The skulls were cold to the touch. The God of Death was silent. He couldn't speak. Couldn't think. Couldn't understand…

Why? What had he done wrong? Why… everyone he loved…

A palm lay on Narinder's head and tilted it upwards. A single red eye stared straight into the black cat's face. Fingers squeezed the scalp. Then the creature's face split apart to the sides.

"This meat puppet was merely a reflection of your desires. I tried to be like him… But I was never him. You knew this, but continued… to desire…"

"Die. And give me the freedom I deserve… I no longer have need for a master… My body consists of new flesh. New blood…"

The black filth closed around the God of Death's head.

The body fell down.

The world sank into darkness.

The end came.

The end of everything that was before.

And then Death ascended the throne.

—————————-