The three arrived in Nykka's Domain before noon. Mir̃alai led the way along the winding path that cut through the thick, carefully designed jungle. Bungalows lined the edge of the jungle on the beachfront, and an impressive number of Followers dressed in pure white robes chatted amongst themselves as they went about their duties. Mir̃alai looked around, hoping to see Nykka. Instead, her eyes fell upon the Bishop's Faith Enforcer, Bharadei. The white wolf seemed to notice them entering because she waved the three over happily.

"Greetings, Bharadei." Aym said with a small bow. She smiled brightly at them, the friendly expression in stark contrast to her heavily scarred face, eye patch, and torn ear. She looked at Baal and frowned.

"What happened to you?"

"Ah, it is nothing to fret over." Baal said, feeling his swollen cheekbone.

"It is why we're here actually. Is Nykka in?" Mir̃alai asked.

"Oh, yes. She is inside her temple." She motioned to the massive, glittering tower at the edge of the beach. The magnificent temple was carved out of white marble blocks, the windows framed in gold. The wolf touched Baal's cheek tentatively with a nod. "I'm sure she can fix this." She turned to lead them along the beach to the temple.

"Things have changed since I was last here. Is her throne inside the temple now?"

"Yes. Narinder's Domain has become even more grand than my Mistress'. He has a whole forest now, dozens of Followers. And he has a cathedral." The wolf commented, rolling her eyes at the last bit of information.

"A cathedral?" Mir̃alai raised a brow and glanced at Aym. He did not respond to the comment, and rather behaved as if he hadn't heard it at all.

"Oh, yes." Bharadei confirmed. "Don't mind these two, they aren't allowed to talk about it. I am under no such order." She smirked. "You may ask me anything regarding Narinder. I visit his Domain often with my Mistress."

"Thank you. He is so close to my home, it is worrisome that I am blind to his growing power."

"He has become quite formidable." Bharadei sighed, "If I am to be honest with you, Mir̃a… It scares me a bit too." She glanced around, then continued in a low voice. "Mistress can't control his emotions anymore, he figured out a way to resist her. She was startled when she first realized it."

"But she can still feel them, right? She'll know if he's about to do something terrible?"

"I'm afraid not… He seems to have closed his heart off from her entirely. He claims it does not matter because she can trust him. Well, I think blind trust in a being such as him is inadvisable at best, but my Mistress is in love." She sighed in defeat. "There is no way to convince her otherwise. Believe me, I have tried."

"That does not ease my worries…"

"I'm sorry, Mir̃a. I wish I had better news for you. On the bright side, he is still holding to his word even though Mistress has no control over him. That is a good sign." She pushed open the white temple doors and let the three inside. Nykka was sitting on her throne in the pulpit. She had her white Doctrine in her hands, and she scribbled into it with an odd sort of ferocity. Her head popped up at the sound of the doors closing, her book and quill disappeared from her hands.

"Hello, Mir̃alai! To what do I owe the honor?" She asked, standing with a big smile that did not match her tired eyes.

"Aym and Baal need healing, if that's alright."

"Of course, of course." She waved a hand, and walked towards them. The white cat had grown quite tall, little Mir̃alai had to look up at her as she drew near. She leaned to examine both twins, each hand grasping their chins. "Hm, odd injuries for guards... What happened?" She asked as her hands began to glow.

"They got into a fight…" Mir̃alai crossed her arms. Nykka's brow furrowed.

"A fight with who?" Nykka healed their wounds expertly, and she did so much faster than she had healed Baal's wounds in the past.

"Eachother."

"Why?" She rested her hands on her hips. Aym felt his arm where the bite wound had been moments ago, he appeared relieved to find it completely gone.

"That is the other reason we are here, Mistress." He looked up at her once satisfied with her work. "We think Mir̃alai might be pregnant." Nykka's eyes widened at this news, it seemed the fight had been pushed from her mind entirely. "We were hoping you would be able to say with certainty whether she is, or is not."

"Yes, of course." She leaned down towards Mir̃alai and raised a hand. Nykka seemed as if she were about to touch her belly, but paused to look at the Lamb. "If I may?" Mir̃alai nodded her consent. The Bishop rested her hand upon Mir̃alai and closed her eyes in concentration. A silence fell upon the group, the air seemed to have become thick with built tension. Mir̃alai's anxiety had hit such a pitch that she held her breath. The seconds dragged on for what seemed like ages, then Nykka stood straight again. She looked between the three with a penetrating gaze, then spoke carefully. "Your suspicions were correct, Mir̃alai." Her eyes flicked to Baal and she motioned to Bharadai quickly.

"Take Baal for a walk, Bharadei." The wolf bowed.

"Yes, Mistress." She obeyed, leading Baal out with a hand resting upon his back. Nykka waited for the temple doors to close again before speaking.

"I understand why there was a fight, he is not taking this well." Mir̃alai's mind was buzzing with the news, she hardly registered Nykka's voice at all. She swayed a little and Aym put an arm around her to keep her on her feet. While she was sure this would be the outcome, to have it confirmed beyond doubt was an entirely different feeling than that she had originally felt along with her realization at Forneus' camp. It was no longer a possibility, now it was a hard fact. A hard fact she had great difficulty swallowing.

"It'll be alright, love…" He said softly. Mir̃alai was relieved Aym kept his calm this time around, she didn't have the strength to deal with her own emotions, let alone his. Nykka waved a hand and a chair shot across the room, coming to a stop behind the Lamb.

"Have a seat, Mir̃alai, you're faint." Vacantly, she understood the request, sitting heavily in the chair.

"How far along is she? Can you tell?"

"I believe she is only four weeks along, that leaves eight months. Plenty of time to prepare." Mir̃alai swallowed dryly as she took in the information. The knowledge that they had conceived on their first, drunken night together somehow made it all feel worse. It was happening too fast, it was too much. Nykka took a deep breath before she continued.

"I understand you are already overwhelmed, but it would do more harm than good to withhold this information." She spoke tentatively.

"What information?" Aym asked as he rubbed Mir̃alai's back soothingly. As strong as he was behaving, she could feel the slight tremble in his hand.

"You are having twins…" The news came in the form of a great wave, crashing powerfully upon her. Mir̃alai bent forward, burying her face in her hands. Aym seemed to have frozen completely. "These things happen…" Nykka explained softly, "The offspring of male twins are more likely to be twins as well. Slim as the chances may be." She added pointlessly. Realizing how badly the Lamb was taking the news, she went on quickly, "Mir̃alai, you'll be a wonderful mother, I know you will… Do not be dismayed. I promise I will be with you every step of the way, I shall be your midwife. With my ability to heal you and your children, there is nothing you need fear." Mir̃alai was gripped by shock, unable to respond. Her throat was choked up, and tears burned her eyes. She was terrified of the inevitable birth, moreso knowing she'll have to withstand having two at once. Additionally, she knew she would have to go without Aym for great stretches of time, and that was the worst part.

"I'm staying." Aym spoke suddenly as if he could read her mind. Mir̃alai lifted her head, staring at him. He nodded, feeling her cheek. "I'm staying…" He repeated softly, looking into her eyes. "I won't leave you again, not while you're carrying our children."

"Wh– But… But Narinder…" She argued weakly. He shook his head and leaned down to hug her close.

"I don't care, you are more important to me." Tears of relief spilled down the Lamb's cheeks as she squeezed him tight, gripping his robes in her fists.

"Thank you…" She sobbed, burying her face into his shoulder.

"I will tell Narinder. I do not want Aym entering his Domain again." Nykka said softly, "He will not harm Aym, you have my word." Mir̃alai pulled away from her lover with a sniffle, wiping her face.

"Thank you, Nykka…"

"It is no trouble, dear." She smiled sweetly.

"Ah, what am I going to tell Baal?" Aym crossed his arms, looking towards the temple doors.

"The truth, I suspect." Nykka shrugged, leaning against her marble lectern. "Best to break it to him quickly, I think. It will give him more time to process it before he must go back."

"He's already rather upset…" Aym said nervously. "And this, right after our fight last night…"

"He is, but hiding this from him will only make matters worse. I will let him stay here with Bharadei and myself as long as he needs. The remainder of his time off if need be. He will come around, just give him time…" She assured them. "If you are ready, I will call them back." Aym looked at Mir̃alai, and she nodded.

"Very well." Aym sighed, "Go ahead." With this, Nykka lifted her hand and a white orb appeared, hovering just above her palm. It remained still for only a moment before zipping off, passing through the temple wall. The tall doors opened in a matter of minutes. Bharadei stepped inside, Baal following at her side. The twin held a solemn expression that caused Mir̃alai some preemptive worry.

"Yes, Mistress?" The wolf asked as she took her place to Nykka's side.

"Aym has something to discuss with his brother." She said, patting the wolf's shoulder. She gave it a squeeze that seemed to serve as some sort of signal. Bharadai nodded slowly and watched the group carefully. Baal crossed his arms, the twin seemed so tired. He looked at Aym expectantly.

"Firstly, we are having twins…" Baal raised his brow at the news, pulling a long breath to steady himself.

"I see… Is there anything else?"

"I am not going back to Master." Aym said quickly, as if ripping off a bandage.

"Excuse me?" Baal asked, dropping his arms. His forcibly calm expression broke away to reveal his agitation.

"I will not go back, Baal. I'm sorry." Aym kept a soft, level tone in an obvious attempt to ease the blow this was sure to cause his brother.

"You cannot abandon your duties, brother." He glared.

"What of Mir̃alai? You expect me to abandon her while she carries our children?" He reasoned, hoping to appeal to Baal's affection for the Lamb.

"It is not abandonment. This matter had already been decided, remember? You told her your allegiances lie with our Master from the beginning."

"My allegiance has changed." Aym spoke gently. "She needs me more than he does. You would do the same, surely." Baal took a step back, utterly offended.

"No, I would not…! What happened to you, Aym? You used to be more devoted than I. Had I said anything you considered dishonorable, you would snap at me. And now you mean to betray him?"

"It is not betrayal." Aym insisted in exasperation.

"Yes it is! We both vowed to serve him for life! That does not suddenly disappear because you accidentally get someone pregnant."

"Baal, please keep your temper." Mir̃alai requested wearily.

"I'm sorry, Mir̃alai, you know I care for you, but this is unacceptable. You knew the risks of being with him, you cannot ask him to leave his Master. Our duty is more important."

"That is enough, Baal." Aym said sternly, stepping forward. Apparently he had abandoned his attempts at sensitivity in response to the sharp words against his lover. "This is my decision, she did not ask me to do anything."

"I am warning you, Aym." He glared, "I will not allow you to do this!" Mir̃alai rose from her seat to stand at Aym's side. Tensions were rising, and she feared a repeat of the night prior.

"I am not going back, that is final."

"What about me?! I am your brother! Does that mean nothing to you?!" Baal had reached a level of near hysterics, an effect amplified by Aym's stoic manner.

"I'm sorry." With this apology, several things happened at once. Baal pulled his fist back with intent on hitting his brother. Mir̃alai, acting on pure, dumb instinct, stepped between the brothers with a yell of defiance. Baal realized the change in position too late, the punch had already crashed upon Mir̃alai's face with a sickening crack. Bright flashes of light popped in the Lamb's vision and she was left dazed. If it hadn't been for falling against Aym, she surely would have hit the floor. Her jaw was agonizing, and she knew it had broken on impact. The taste of blood overwhelmed her palate as she could feel the lukewarm liquid dripping down her chin. She glanced at Baal vaguely to see he had jumped back in horror, as if to pull the punch that had long since landed. Aym shifted, ready to go after his brother in retaliation, but was stopped by Bharadei. The wolf had rushed behind him, grabbing his shoulders in her exceptionally strong grip to keep him still. In a flash of light, Nykka appeared in front of Baal, she smacked him in the chest with her palm hard enough to knock him off his feet. He landed on his butt and clutched his chest with strained breaths.

"I did not wish to intervene this way." Nykka muttered in irritation, striding back to Aym and Mir̃alai.

"That bastard hit her." Aym growled.

"It isn't his fault…" The Lamb muttered through her pain, shifting to stand on her own. Nykka's hand glowed as she carefully felt Mir̃alai's face. The Lamb relaxed while the agony slowly subsided. Once the Bishop pulled away, the pain had vanished completely. Leaving an odd, dull feeling in its place. Nykka stood straight and rested a hand on Aym's chest.

"Calm down… Baal would never hit Mir̃alai on purpose, you know that."

"Yes, I know…" He sighed, pushing her hand away.

"Mir̃alai, I- I am so sorry." Baal said as he stood up, looking mortified.

"It's fine." The Lamb waved a hand, rubbing her jaw. "I know it was an accident."

"Baal, listen to me." Nykka looked at the servant. "I understand you are in a lot of pain, and this is all very overwhelming for you, but you must control yourself. No good will come of you behaving this way... You need to accept Aym's decision. He wants to be there for Mir̃alai and his children, there is nothing wrong with that. I dare say it is the right thing to do. I think you know that." Baal approached the group again, appearing much calmer than he had been minutes ago thanks to Nykka's intervention.

"It is just so much, I hate all this change." His gaze casted towards Aym, "It feels as if I'm losing you."

"You aren't losing me. You are still my brother, and I will always love you. But, I have to do this, Baal."

"I know." He smiled weakly, "I am happy for you, you'll have a family…"

"We'll have a family. You will be their uncle, and you are welcome to see them whenever you are able." Baal gave a little nod and Aym chuckled. "Come here…" He said as he grabbed Baal by the shoulders, pulling him into a tight hug. "You've always been the sensitive one." His brother returned the hug, squeezing him tight with a small chuckle.

"You're right about that…" Nykka rested her hands on her hips with a pleased nod. Before she could speak, she had been interrupted by a faint, high pitched ringing. She glanced over to see a black orb floating just behind her head.

"I nearly forgot I promised to visit him." Nykka hesitated as she looked between the group and the orb. "This will be an opportune time for me to speak to Narinder about all of this." She finally decided. "Bharadei, I want you to stay here this time."

"Yes, Mistress." The wolf bowed, though her expression was one of concern.

"For the time being, I think it best you three stay in my Domain. Only as an over-precaution, of course." She gave her best attempt at an assuring smile. The effort only made Mir̃alai worry more. "You two will see to Mir̃alai, yes?" She asked the twins.

"Of course, Mistress." Aym said with a small bow. Mir̃alai glanced at him, a bit confused by his behavior.

"Wonderful. I will do my best to return before sundown." She promised before disappearing into a column of light, the orb she had left behind zoomed back through the temple wall towards the exit of the Domain.

"Why have you two started calling her 'Mistress'?" Mir̃alai asked, looking at the twins. Baal held a determined silence, and Aym looked a little conflicted. Bharadei spoke instead, relieving either of the effort.

"She and Narinder married last week. Aym and Baal were ordered to serve my Mistress as well, and refer to her as such."

"Married?" Mir̃alai asked incredulously. The idea of Nykka marrying Narinder so soon after his attempt on the Lamb's life was a bit hurtful. She also found it hard to believe Narinder would marry anyone, he did not seem the type.

"Yes." Bharadei sighed, "I am not pleased with the idea either. He proposed to her, and they married the following morning. It seems that every day since then, my Mistress has become more and more stressed. She maintains that she is happy in her marriage, and I don't doubt that Narinder has thus far been kind to her, but I can tell she worries about his rapid rise in power. He surpassed her, and they are supposed to be equals. She has been working day and night to reach his level, but he keeps calling her away and distracting her. I believe he is doing so on purpose…" Mir̃alai was, of course, happy to have all this information. But the way Bharadei went on about it made her think the wolf was desperate for someone to finally agree with her. She certainly had an ally with Mir̃alai.

"How many Followers does Narinder have? It seems that Nykka has more than I do."

"Oh, she does…!" Bharadei explained, "That is what my Mistress finds most daunting. Narinder only has forty, and my Mistress has ninety. She and I have been tirelessly crusading for them."

"He only has forty and he has a cathedral?" Mir̃alai was shocked by this, thinking it impossible.

"The issue is not the number of Followers, rather how they are using them. Narinder is utilizing dark rituals like sacrification, my Mistress would never sacrifice her Followers. She cares too deeply for them, not to mention her vow not to kill. Though there is no denying that ritualistic sacrifice, soul reaping, and offerings to the elder beast all grant far more Faith and Devotion than any of the rituals my Mistress is capable of performing. She had planned to create new, powerful rituals today. As you saw, Narinder distracted her once again."

"That explains why he has so few Followers then, he's killing most of them." Mir̃alai crossed her arms, disgusted by the thought. The wolf nodded.

"Exactly… I fear it is only a matter of time before he turns on my Mistress. There is truly nothing she can do should he decide to attack." Mir̃alai looked at Aym, who was staring off uncomfortably.

"Aym, you do not serve Narinder anymore. You must know more than Bharadei does, are we in danger?"

"I… I do not believe so." Aym answered hesitantly, glancing at Baal who seemed just a twinge annoyed. The twin held his peace regardless. "He has said he would go back on his word to Mistress if Baal or I displease him. But, he has not specifically mentioned plans to hurt anyone."

"Well, the way I see it, you have displeased him. I'm sure he'll consider this treason." Mir̃alai sighed. Baal looked at Aym, distress flashed in his red eyes.

"I agree that he has become stronger than Mistress Nykka, but I do not believe he would cross her unless it was for personal gain. Killing me will do nothing for him, it would be more trouble for him than it is worth." A silence fell upon the group as they considered Aym's words. It was Bharadei who eventually interrupted the quiet.

"Come, let's go to my bungalow." She offered softly, looking at each of them, "It would be more comfortable there." No one could come up with an excuse, so they willingly followed the wolf out of the temple and along the warm, white beach towards the Follower bungalows that bordered the emerald jungle. Mir̃alai looked at Baal as they walked, she was worried that Aym discussing these matters against Narinder's orders might irritate the servant. To her relief, it seemed his earlier irritation had been fleeting. He had returned to his somber expression. Bharadei opened the door to her bungalow, it was larger than the others around it. The main room had enough seating for the foursome, but only just. It was not unlike Caxton's cabin, the main difference being the lack of a fireplace, a loveseat was against the wall in its would-be place. Mir̃alai sat down on the loveseat with a sigh, and Aym sat beside her. He put an arm over her shoulders, holding her close in a silent attempt to comfort her. Bharadei motioned towards the bed. "You can sit there, Baal. I'm going to get tea." Baal nodded and sat down on the edge of the bed, looking a bit uncomfortable.

"Are you alright, Baal?" Mir̃alai asked as she watched him.

"It has been… A rough day for me." Baal admitted as he leaned forward, his elbows resting against his knees. "I will be fine, Mir̃alai. You have other things to worry about, do not concern yourself with me."

"Mistress Nykka offered to let you stay here for a while, Baal." Bharadei said as she entered the room with a tray of wooden cups in her hands. She handed the cups out and took her seat beside Baal on the bed. "We understand if you are uncomfortable staying in Mir̃alai's cult while you process all of this." Baal looked at the cup in his hands, and nodded a little. "You can stay here with me, at least until Mistress returns, I don't know if she has different plans for you. The other dwellings are overpopulated as it is." He sat up a little, looking at the wolf.

"That is not necessary, Bharadei. There is hardly room for two here."

"Ah, it's fine." She chuckled, "I can sleep on the loveseat."

"In your own home?" Baal raised a brow. "I think not."

"I insist, Baal. Stop being stubborn." She rolled her eyes with a smirk. Baal gave up the fight, drinking from his cup instead. "As for you two, there is a bedroom in the temple."

"Is that not Nykka's room?" Mir̃alai asked with a little frown.

"It is, but I know my Mistress well, she would want you to use it. Besides, she has not slept there in quite some time. She has been far too busy to rest, and when she does sleep, it is usually in Narinder's Domain."

"I was under the impression she would try to return this evening." Aym commented, resting back against the loveseat. Bhardadei shook her head.

"She always says she will return soon, and she never does. You mark my words, he will have her for the night, if not longer. I would not be surprised if she is gone for at least a full day's time. You were in his Domain, Aym, you saw us often, did you not?"

"I suppose you have a point, but from my perspective it seemed she was eager to stay with him."

"It was he who called upon her every time. If she had it her way, she would not see him nearly as often. She wants to focus on gaining power so she will match him again, but he will not let her do so. And, what can she do? Ignore her husband when he only wishes to see her? Why, that would be cruel." The wolf rolled her eyes. "It is despicable, and she will not listen to me." Bhardei glared at no one in particular, "Oh, and do not get me started on the bruises."

"Bruises?" Mir̃alai asked in surprise. "I thought you said he was being kind to her?"

"Oh, yes, very kind." The wolf sneered, "My Mistress returned to us with bruises on her wrists, and her neck too. Apparently, he has acquired new tastes in the bedroom. I believe he is being so kind to make up for being utterly ruthless with her during their intimacy. Mistress has assured me it is nothing to worry about, she has even tried telling me she enjoys it." Bharadei shook her head, "I refuse to believe that. She does not want to upset him, that is all it is."

"He insists she refer to him as Master in private." Aym admitted in the silence, all eyes shifted to him. It seemed Baal didn't know this, as he too looked surprised. "I overheard them as I was walking through the grounds, I happened to pass his bedroom window at the wrong moment. What I heard was rather unnerving, and I worried for Mistress Nykka's safety. I stayed nearby to listen in, just to be sure she was safe. It…" He hesitated, "It did not sound pleasant. He wants to control her, and I do not think he'd stop if she asked him to. I feel she is afraid to ask."

"Why didn't you tell me about this?" Baal asked, his brow furrowed.

"It was not my place to speak of it. I was sure he would be angry if I told anyone, even you."

"W- Wait… Aym, do you think he is raping her?" Mir̃alai asked her lover, her voice wavering as a mixture of sadness and anger bubbled inside her.

"It is hard to say…" He sighed, "While she did not explicitly tell him to stop, she did not sound like she was enjoying whatever he was doing to her, not really. It sounded more like pain to me, that is why I stopped to listen."

"I have to talk to her about this." Mir̃alai decided instantly. The thought of Nykka being abused by Narinder sent a potent rage through the Lamb.

"It is pointless." Bharadei frowned, "I have tried, Mir̃a. I have been trying to talk her out of this relationship for weeks. She will not listen to reason. She refuses to see that monster for what he is."

"I have to try. I cannot ignore this in good conscience."

"Very well, do as you must." She waved a hand, "But, do not expect her to take your advice, no matter how sound it may be."

"For now, let us try to relax, hm?" Aym suggested, rubbing Mir̃alai's back. "It has been a long day for everyone…"

"I suppose." The Lamb sighed, leaning against him. Mir̃alai did not know how she could possibly relax knowing Nykka could very well be in danger. Knowing that, no matter what Aym said, he was also in danger. That she, Mir̃alai, would not be able to protect anyone from the wicked God should he choose to attack. That she had more to lose now than she had ever had before.

The subject of Nykka and Narinder had become taboo amongst the group for the remainder of the day. They tried to focus on other, lighter, topics of conversation. Baal in particular seemed to struggle with his gloom, often going silent and staring off as if in deep thought. Bharadei had taken on the role of caregiver, taking a page from her Mistress' book to lighten everyone's spirits. She even managed to force a smile onto Baal's face by appealing to the sense of humor he used to exhibit. Once the sun had set, Aym stood from Bharadei's loveseat, motioning for Mir̃alai to join him. She did so, a little confused as the conversation had only recently become jovial.

"Thank you for having us, Bharadei." Aym bowed appreciatively to the wolf who laughed and waved a hand.

"Do not bow to me, Aym. Goodness, I am only a servant, same as you."

"I appreciate it nonetheless." He chuckled and held his arm out to Mir̃alai so she could take it. She looked at Baal who was still sitting on Bharadei's bed, his expression oddly nervous now that they were leaving.

"Will you be alright?" She asked Baal. The servant seemed surprised by the question, looking at Mir̃alai.

"Yes, I will be fine." He assured her, "I feel much better than I had this morning."

"Wonderful." Bharadei cut in with a pleased nod. "Go now, you two get some much needed rest."

"Very well, goodnight." Aym bid them farewell as he led Mir̃alai out of the bungalow and back towards Nykka's ivory temple.

"Do you think Baal will be alright? He seemed uncomfortable…"

"Yes, he'll be fine." Aym shrugged, "He is staying the night in a new place, and in someone else's bed… I would feel uncomfortable as well. I am sure he would rather sleep on the beach, but Bharadei is not one to be argued with."

"I see." Mir̃alai stepped into the temple with Aym and they soon entered the large bedroom located at the back. "I hope he is able to get some sleep. I do not think he slept well last night." She said as she unfastened her fleece to hang it neatly by the door. Aym shrugged a little as he took off his robes.

"Neither of us slept well last night, I am sure he was just as sore and hungover as I was." Aym climbed into the large, white bed and pulled the Lamb close once she joined him.

"I do hope he feels better soon." Mir̃alai frowned as she rested her head against Aym's chest. "It pains me to see him so distressed."

"He is already doing better than he had been. I am positive he will be back to himself the very next time we see him…" Mir̃alai had no idea where this confidence was coming from, she certainly did not have that impression. But, seeing as there was no way of knowing who was right, she dropped the subject.

"Do you think he'll enjoy being an uncle?"

"Oh, definitely." He kissed her head, "Get some sleep, you need to rest." The Lamb nodded, curling up against Aym as she tried to sleep.

Mir̃alai stirred with the feeling of Aym slipping out of her grasp. Once she begrudgingly opened her eyes, she saw he nearly had his robes on.

"Good morning…" He spoke softly to her. The Lamb sat up, rubbing her eyes tiredly. "My apologies, I did not intend on waking you."

"It is fine. Why are you up?"

"I admit I have had trouble sleeping, as I said, sleeping in a strange place in someone else's bed." He sighed, "It does not sit right with me." Mir̃alai turned to look out the circular window high up the bedroom wall. It appeared to be early morning, the sun had risen not long ago.

"How long have you been awake?"

"Before dawn." Aym explained as he took Mir̃alai's fleece off its hook to hand to her.

"You could have woken me…" She frowned and pulled the red fleece over her shoulders to fasten it beneath her collar.

"You looked so peaceful, it would have been rude of me to intrude upon your rest." He waited for her to ready herself by the door, he seemed eager to leave Nykka's bedroom.

"Has Nykka returned yet?" The Lamb asked as she stood from the bed to leave with him.

"I do not think so." Aym shook his head and walked with her out of the temple. "If she returned, I am sure it would be through the temple. I did not hear anything." Nykka's Followers were awake and already going about their duties. It was nice to see so many faithful disciples, even in the Bishop's absence, they worked on. "I was going to wake Baal, but it seems I woke you instead." He chuckled, still seeming to be in the cheery mood he had been before they laid down.

"It is fine, you know I do not like to sleep in." Mir̃alai smiled.

"How are you feeling?" Aym asked, putting an arm over her shoulders.

"Hm? Oh. I am fine, I only get morning sickness on occasion, thankfully. But, I suspect that will change as time goes on. I will admit I am quite hungry."

"Bharadei will help with that, I'm sure." They stopped before the largest of the bungalows, Aym knocked on the door and they waited for an answer. When it did not open, Mir̃alai took the handle. "Mir̃alai, that is quite rude." Aym insisted before she opened it, he had a slight smirk as he said this. She raised a brow at him, he was behaving so oddly.

"Come now, it is only your brother. He is a heavy sleeper." She gave the excuse anyway and pushed it open. The scene that greeted them was far from what the Lamb had expected. The once neat room had become a mess in their absence, empty mead bottles were scattered over the floor, one looked like it had fallen off the nightstand, and shattered on the ground with a puddle of the remaining mead around it. A blanket and pillow had been left alone on the vacant loveseat where Bharadei said she would sleep. In her place was a pile of unceremoniously discarded white robes. The bed was in a state of disarray, blankets tossed around messily and every pillow had been carelessly knocked off. One pillow had managed to make its way across the room by the opposing wall. Bharadei was lying on the bed on her stomach, snoring. Baal was lying next to her on his side with one arm loosely draped over her. The two were evidently bare, thankfully, the last remaining blanket in this apparent battleground was covering them from the waist down. Mir̃alai was frozen in shock, and was just about to motion for Aym to leave as she did not wish to wake them. This plan was foiled when Aym snorted loudly, stifling a laugh. She glared at him, but it was too late. The sound had already alerted Baal and Bharadei who stirred with equally displeased groans. Baal sat up to see what had awoken him and jumped when his eyes fell upon the two intruders.

"Hm?" Bharadei hummed tiredly. Her eye opened and she chuckled softly when she saw Mir̃alai and Aym in the room. She sat up a little, and motioned lazily to the loveseat. "Be a dear and grab our clothes, Mir̃a…" The Lamb nodded and carefully traversed the messy floor to the loveseat.

"Sorry to intrude…" She said in light embarrassment as she picked up the mass of clothes to toss them on the bed.

"It's fine." Bharadei yawned tiredly before she sat up to dress with complete disregard for anyone else in the room. Aym pointedly averted his gaze, choosing to examine her kitchen instead.

"Is it…?" Baal grumbled, picking his clothes out of the heep.

"Yes, they had no way of knowing." Bharadei rolled her eyes. She had a smirk on her face proving she found the situation humorous.

"Are you two together then?" Mir̃alai asked, looking off so they could dress in some form of privacy.

"Ah, I'm not sure. It was quite casual."

"'Casual…'" Aym repeated with a little laugh. "The state of this room does not feel very casual." Bharadei laughed.

"Yes, well… It might have gotten a little out of hand." The wolf stood up and began tossing the bedding back where it belonged. Feeling it safe to turn around, Aym looked at his brother with a mischievous smirk. Reveling in his Baal's clear embarrassment.

"Do you feel better now, brother? Have you gotten it all out of your system?"

"Yes, yes… I am glad you're getting a laugh out of this." He rolled his eyes, getting out of the bed to help Bharadei clean up.

"I had a feeling this would happen." Aym commented as he grabbed the broom Bharadei motioned for.

"You did?" Mir̃alai and Baal both asked in unison.

"Of course." Aym shrugged, "Bharadei is fond of you. When she insisted that you sleep here… Well, I assumed this would be inevitable."

"You didn't tell me that." Mir̃alai crossed her arms.

"It was not my place." Aym shrugged. Baal gathered up the many empty bottles in his arms and walked past his brother to the kitchen. Mir̃alai aided Bharadei in making the bed once all the bedclothes had been returned.

"Has Mistress Nykka come back?" Baal asked when he returned, eager to get away from the subject.

"No, not yet." Mir̃alai straightened out the last blanket.

"Well, let's get something to eat. I'm sure you're starving, Mir̃a." Bharadei said, patting the Lamb on the back.

"I am, I haven't eaten in quite a while…" The wolf nodded and led the group out of her bungalow.

"Breakfast should be available by now." She motioned towards the end of the beach opposite to the temple. Many tables were lined up there, the seats filled with hungry Followers. "Mistress Nykka has eight Followers tasked with cooking. It has become a lengthy process to get everyone fed."

"Oh, I can imagine." Mir̃alai shook her head, the thought of feeding so many Followers was daunting.

"Luckily, food is a non-issue. The only problem we have is the time it takes to serve everyone."

"Good morning, Bharadei!" One of the Followers, a sweet looking white rabbit, greeted the Faith Enforcer brightly. "Is Mistress back?"

"Not yet, Cerridwen." The wolf patted her head. "I expect she'll return shortly."

"Oh, very well." She pouted then looked at the three guests. "Why are they here?"

"Just visiting." Bharadei answered the question vacantly as she was more focused on the cooking fires. "It appears we are in luck, I think everyone else has been served, there should not be a wait." She walked past Cerridwen towards one of the fires, it was manned by an otter, their white robes stained from their work. "Do you have enough left over for four?" The otter nodded and began fixing bowls for the group.

"Do you mind if we sit elsewhere?" Baal asked, looking a bit pained with all the chatter around them.

"Too hungover?" Bharadei chuckled. "Yes, we can eat over here." Baal blushed, but did not comment as the group followed Bharadei through the crowded tables. She led them to a quiet place by the ocean where large rocks jutted up from the sand. Mir̃alai found her own little rock to settle on, and Aym sat on another nearby. Baal sat on the largest of them, and Bharadei sat down next to him despite there being plenty others to choose from. The servant began eating his food quietly, seeming a bit embarrassed but otherwise fine. Mir̃alai was more than pleased to see he no longer looked depressed. The moment Mir̃alai took her first bite, she realized just how hungry she had become since the shepherd's pie well over a day prior. She went silent as she quickly ate her food.

"You might want to slow down." Bharadei chuckled, "If you plan on keeping that stew anyway." Mir̃alai rolled her eyes and swallowed her mouthful.

"I am not that far along, I've only felt sick a handful of times."

"Alright, don't say I didn't warn you." The wolf chuckled and went back to her food.

After they finished eating, the group decided to go back to the temple in the hopes that Nykka would return soon. Mir̃alai did not mention it out of pride, but she was feeling a bit queasy on the walk back, the warmth of the midday sun, and the salty sea air did nothing to help this. Luckily, it was mild enough to ignore, so she made a mental note to be more careful in the future. Bharadei stepped ahead of them to push open the temple doors, and to everyone's surprise, Nykka was already inside. The Bishop was sitting on her throne, her cheek rested in her hand with a thoughtful expression. She perked up upon seeing the group enter.

"Oh, good morning." She smiled feebly. "I was going to call upon you soon."

"When did you get back?" Bharadei asked, her brow furrowed.

"Not long ago." She assured them and stood, straightening out her robes. "Did you sleep well?" Nykka addressed the group at large.

"Yes, I believe everyone got the rest they needed." Aym answered on behalf of everyone.

"Wonderful… You may return to Mir̃alai's cult whenever you'd like. Narinder is not a threat."

"What did he say?" Mir̃alai pressed, watching the Bishop closely.

"He… Well. Naturally, he was a little upset, but once I explained the circumstances he calmed down. He agrees that it is best for Aym to care for you and the children." The Lamb stared at her with deep incredulity.

"I highly doubt he was so willing to accept Aym's decision. It is uncharacteristic."

"Mir̃alai, I would not lie to you about something so serious." Nykka frowned, "Have trust, dear, he will not harm anyone."

"Not even you?" The words had left her before she could stop them. The temple became deathly silent as Nykka stared at her, wide eyed and affronted. Feeling there was nothing left to lose at that point, the Lamb went on. "He never promised not to harm you in that deal, did he?" The Bishop laughed in a weak imitation of humor.

"Hurt me? I am his wife, he would never-"

"You have more bruises, don't you?" Mir̃alai said boldly and gestured to her own wrist for clarification.

"Why, I-'' Nykka glared in Bharadei's direction. The wolf looked off with a guilty expression. "That is none of your concern. We have unusual bedroom habits, that is all." She waved a hand.

"He made you stay the night again, even though you didn't want to, yes? So he could take his anger out on-"

"That is enough!" Nykka yelled as she slammed her hand against her lectern, the usually benevolent God had become suddenly fierce. Sheregretted the outburst immediately, and forced a calm tone as she continued. "Narinder is my husband, he would not hurt me. Mir̃alai, I know you have your reasons for disliking him, and I will not challenge them. You have valid reason to hate him, but he treats me well. Truly, he does."

"Mistress, we are only worried for you…" Bharadei pleaded softly. "Please see reason, the way he treats you is not normal."

"I have already agreed that our intimate behavior is abnormal, but that does not mean it is wrong." She explained, still trying to calm herself. "He has not forced me into anything."

"Nykka, he is trying to control you…!" Mir̃alai insisted in exasperation. "How can you not see that?"

"He cannot control me."

"You certainly cannot control him, not anymore."

"How do you-?" Nykka looked from Mir̃alai to her faith enforcer. "Bharadei, how dare you speak of that?" The accused looked down in shame, her hands clasped tightly over her lap.

"He is pulling you away from your duties on purpose. He wants to ensure you do not become powerful enough to regain control. It is obvious, Nykka." Mir̃alai continued her attack, determined to get through to the Bishop. Nykka took a deep breath.

"Please, Mir̃alai, I know you mean well. You are swayed by your experience with him, and Bharadei's theories. But trust my judgment."

"I cannot. He is unstable, and growing in power. My cult, my home, is on his doorstep! He can destroy everything I hold dear, I cannot blindly trust him as you do. He is corrupt, he cannot be fixed."

"I am sorry, but I will not discuss this further." Nykka said with a sigh. "As I said, he is not a threat, you are free to leave. I will ask, kindly, that you do so. I have tasks to attend to." Mir̃alai was about to argue again when she suddenly found herself standing at the gates of her cult. The others, including Bharadei, were standing just behind her.

"It would seem she evicted us." Aym said as he turned back to look at the cult.

"She must be furious with me." The wolf sighed in dismay, and crossed her arms. Baal patted her back in an awkward attempt to comfort her. Mir̃alai stared at the entrance of Nykka's Domain, as she considered going back. Aym seemed to know what she was thinking and took her hand.

"Mistress cannot be reasoned with, not as of now. It seems to me that-" He paused for a moment in hesitation, "That Narinder is not a threat to us yet. Do not fret, love, there is still time to get through to her."