Cult of the Lamb : The Man in the Forest

Chapter 25: Remedy and Retribution

Merida and Kenedra passed the cherry red gate into the Cult just after eleven A.M.. The sky was clear, the sun was shining, and yet there was an undeniable chill in the air. Winter was quickly approaching. It would not be long before traveling with a winter cloak would become a necessity. Bypassing the usual waves and greetings of passersby followers, Merida led her lover into the temple that would give way to her home. The living room was cozy, the fireplace lit and crackling, the scent of recently eaten breakfast still lingered in the air.

"Is anyone home?" Kenedra asked, noticing the silence within the walls.

"I doubt it. Mama and Dad are probably out taking care of tasks. I'm sure Lydie is in the medical tents or somewhere with Cassius." Merida said as she opened the door to their shared bedroom. As she expected, her twin was nowhere to be seen. She set the heavy hiking back down on the floor, leaned her staff against the wall, and stretched her back. Kenedra had been carrying Merida's much lighter bag, and she set it down beside the first, an empathetic smile on her face.

"I would have carried that, Merida..."

"And I said I wouldn't have that." Merida retorted with a smirk, slipping an arm around her waist as she kissed her head. "Alright, let's go find my parents. I should probably let them know you'll be staying."

"Good idea." Kenedra giggled, giving her a little squeeze in return. They left the temple together to locate the cult leader. The task proved to be easier than they had imagined, Merida's mother was nearby. She was speaking with Dallion, the wolf had his arms crossed with his typical handsome smile.

"I'll let her know you were asking, Dallion." The Lamb assured him pleasantly.

"Alright. Thanks, Leader." Dally grinned. He was about to walk away when his eyes found Merida. He perked up, his tail wagging. "Oh, nevermind." He chuckled.

"Nevermind what?" Merida asked as she approached.

"I was just asking the Leader when you'd be back."

"Oh, hello, Kenedra." Mir̃alai greeted her surprise guest happily, briefly interrupting Merida's query.

"Hello, ma'am." Kenedra reciprocated with a respectful bow.

"Why do you care when I'd be back?" Merida asked, resting her free hand on her hip, her other still around her beloved's waist.

"Because you said you were going to train us. We've been waiting."

"Oh, you want to learn too?" Merida asked, a brow raised.

"Yeah, of course." Dallion grinned, his hands on his hips. "There's a few of us. So, when's the first lesson?" Truthfully, Merida had completely forgotten her promise to train Aerwyn and his friends. So much had happened between then and now. Merida sighed, thinking about it.

"Okay, uh..." She glanced at her mother who offered no assistance. "Monday at..." She hesitated, looking at Mir̃alai again. She didn't want to interfere with Caxton's meticulous scheduling. The Lamb only smiled reassuringly. "Two P.M.. Meet in the flower field."

"Great, I'll let everyone know." Dally nodded and jogged off presumably to do just that.

"I'll tell Caxton to excuse your students. I admit, the idea of having trained followers unsettled me because of the coup, but I think this will be good for you. As Aerwyn said, it will be nice to have more capable followers to crusade as well." She smiled, "Most of all, it gives you a greater purpose in the Cult."

"What do you mean?" Merida asked, cocking a brow. "Greater purpose?"

"Well, yes, of course." Mir̃alai nodded thoughtfully. "Your sister has her healing, but you have not expressed a greater interest in the Cult yet. Your only interest thus far has been in training. I am incredibly proud of your growing abilities, but I had hoped you would find something to contribute to the Cult as well. Now you have. You can be a teacher. If these classes go well and you enjoy doing it, I see no reason you cannot train future generations." Mir̃alai grinned with pride. Merida was taken aback, these plans were so... grand. The idea of teaching that many followers made her a bit nervous. Her mother noticed her sudden apprehension and reached out to rest a hand on her cheek. "Only if you want to Merida." She assured her with a smile. "I will not force you to take on any role you do not want. Alright?"