Chapter Text
CHAPTER 6
Lambert's eyelids fluttered open as the sunlight pierced through the window, casting soft beams across the room. They had only managed a few hours of restless sleep, sighing, they sat up slowly, trying to shake off the heaviness of the night.
The cult was already stirring, as always. A day of new challenges awaited, but Lambert couldn't help but wonder... would they be able to make things right today?
They hoped so. Maybe they could make an offer of peace to Shamura – they fucked up badly with Kallamar last night - by bringing them some breakfast. Not for Shamura’s sake, but they knew that if the spider was in a better mood, it would be easier for them to approach Narinder.
Lambert decided it was worth a try. Rising from their bed, they quietly made their way to the kitchen area in the cult. Scanning the available food, they settled on a simple but thoughtful selection. Freshly baked bread, some of the cult's finest berry jam, and a steaming cup of herbal tea. Balancing the tray carefully, Lambert headed toward the hut, hoping Shamura would accept the gesture. And that maybe, even Narinder would be feeling well enough to have some of it. Lambert, being mindful that Narinder could still be passed out, they enter slowly and quietly.
Lambert entered the hut cautiously, their steps soft as they carried the tray inside. Their eyes immediately landing on Shamura sitting on the edge of the bed next to Narinder.
"I brought you breakfast... thought you could have some. Both of you." They say.
Shamura do not give them a reply. But they also didn’t seem hostile. Lambert took the lack of response as a neutral sign, placing the tray carefully within Shamura’s reach. They glanced at Narinder, still sleeping.
"I’ll leave you to it." They murmured, retreating quietly toward the door.
"You can boil more tea from those remaining herbs." The spider say.
Lambert paused at the doorway, nodding once.
"I’ll do that." They replied, coming back inside and doing as requested, careful not to disturb the still sleeping Narinder.
Shamura meanwhile gently change the bandages on Narinder's body. Trying not to cause him to wake up neither to feel pain.
"Oh, thank the gods." Shamura say to themselves as they see the difference on how his members were from yesterday to this morning. Now the bones were properly covered in tissue and muscle. And a bit of skin was starting to form as well in some areas. They don’t redo the bandages for now, letting the members take some fresh air.
Lambert glanced over as they prepared the tea, catching a glimpse of Narinder’s improved condition despite last night situation. A small wave of relief washed over them.
“He’s healing.” They murmured, keeping their voice low “Good.”
"This is why we need more of those herbs."Shamura say "Kallamar might have been the god of pestilence and have an almost infinite knowledge in sickness and all things related... but he doesn't know everything. Nor trust in the 'home-made' recipes.' "
“I’ll search for more today.” Lambert replied quietly, their focus briefly shifting back to the tea “If it’s helping this much, we can’t stop now.”
As Lambert was finishing the tea and pouring the very especific seven spoonfuls of sugar, Narinder sighs and slowly open his eyes. Shamura of course is on ready to tend to him.
"Hello, brother. How are you feeling?" The spider ask.
"... Still numb..." He replies, and a small smile is on his face, relieved that he was not feeling pain on that moment "Bless Kallamar weird spit..."
Not that The Lamb still had much doubts, but hearing Narinder confirming Kallamar's narrative makes them even more aware of their actions towards the squid last night. Lambert glanced down, their jaw tightening. They busied themselves with the tea, trying to focus on the task rather than on the night before.
"The tea's ready." They said quietly.
Shamura was caressing Narinder's face once again.
"How's your stomach, brother? Can you have some tea?" Shamura ask him.
"I feel nothing. I can try." He replies.
Lambert carefully brought the tea over.
"It's sweetened." They murmured, glancing briefly at Narinder before averting their gaze.
Shamura try to help Narinder to sit up a bit since he was still under the effect of Kallamar's numbing in some level. But the moment he is moved his face gives away that it was not going to be possible. They try to hold his head up a little and bring the cup to his lips, but simply there was no good angle especially given the cup form, making it hard for him to drink without spilling the tea on himself. And after the strain of throwing up so much, the muscles for his chest, neck and back were hurting when he tries to move.
"This is ridiculous, just get a straw!" Narinder says, he was starting to get frustrated by that.
Well... there wasn't any straws in the cult. They were all gone in the last party at the drinking house and Lambert didn’t replaced them yet. After all, straws were not a priority. Lambert sighed, rubbing the bridge of their nose.
"We don’t have any straws left. Unless you want me to carve one out of a twig, this is what we’ve got." They tell him "Your call, Narinder."
Narinder narrows his eyes at The Lamb. Clearly irritated by their words.
"Hand me the tea." Shamura say.
Lambert handed over the tea without a word, but they feel a chill run their body when Shamura with no ceremony just took the bottle again and transfers the tea to it. The Lamb's eyes going wide, but not as close as Narinder's went. Doing that with the cat unconscious was something, with him awake and fully aware?!
"Absolutely no, Shamura." Narinder retorts to the spider right away.
Lambert took a cautious step back, bracing themselves for Narinder's inevitable outburst. They could already feel the tension rising like a storm about to break.
"Brother, you need to take the herbs and put something in your stomach."
"Not like this! You take me for a child?!"
Lambert cleared their throat.
"Narinder, it's just practicality. No one's calling you a child." They said trying to mediate.
"You shut up! Stay out of this!" He replies The Lamb.
"Brother, please. You need this medicine to survive." Shamura tell him.
"Not like this!" He refuses "I rather die withering away and decaying on this bed than live with this shame!"
"It's not about shame. It's about getting better, Narinder!” The Lamb retort.
Before Narinder could tell The Lamb to fuck themselves, Shamura hold the cat's face with a single hand, making him look at them, there was a huge lacking of gentleness on that compared to the rest of the spider’s actions towards the cat. The grip was so tight that it even squeezed Narinder's cheeks a bit.
"Shame is you, god of death, asking TWICE to be put out of your misery in a single night." Shamura's tone was harsh and firm, scolding, almost sounding disappointed on him "Now, you can have this tea the easy way, or I can shove it down your throat, or I'll make sure to pass you out for good so you can have it. Either way, you ARE drinking this tea. It's your pick, Narinder."
Lambert stood silent for a moment, watching the tension between Shamura and Narinder, feeling the weight of the situation. They wanted to intervene, to stop Shamura from being so forceful and accidentally hurt the cat, but they knew Narinder needed the medicine.
The three eyes of the cat and the four ones of the spider stared at each other intensively. Not even blinking.
"...This better not happen again." Narinder gives up and only then Shamura let go of the cat's face.
"We will find better options before next time comes." Shamura say, finishing preparing the bottle. As Shamura was going to bring the bottle to Narinder's lips, he moved his face away "Narinder-" Shamura was getting ready to force the drink down his throat already.
"I don’t want them here." He talks about The Lamb "It’s enough humiliation that this is happening already and you are witnessing it. Don't need nor want the traitor here to see this as well."
Lambert flinched at Narinder's words. They opened their mouth to respond but decided not to. With a quiet sigh, they stepped back further, hands clenched at their sides.
"I'll leave." They turned and walked out of the hut. They understood it tho. Lambert would also not like to be seen if they were in the same condition.
Lambert's steps slowed as they walked away. They understood Narinder's pride, his need for privacy in such a moment. They couldn't help but feel torn. Torn between wanting to offer help and feeling like an intruder. Once they were a few meters away, Lambert paused, taking a deep breath, trying to push aside the knot in their chest. They had to be patient, they reminded themselves. They would find a way to make things right, but for now, they needed to let Narinder have his space.
Lambert was so absorved in their thoughts, they didn’t even notice when Leshy literally opened up a hole in the earth ground behind them and bit down hard on their legs, keeping them on place. Lambert yelped in surprise, their thoughts shattered by the sudden pain of the fangs. They barely had time to react before they were pulled to the ground, the sharp pressure of Leshy’s bite forcing them to stay still. Their heart raced as they tried to comprehend what was happening in the first seconds. They gasped, struggling to free their legs from the mouth of the worm. Next, The Lamb only had time to feel the extremely strong fist of Heket connecting with their face. For a moment, they thought all their teeth got broken and their skull as well from the strength of it.
Lambert’s vision went black for a moment from the sheer force of the punch. The pain was blinding, and for a brief moment, they thought they would lose consciousness. Their head spun, and they could taste blood in their mouth as they tried to steady themselves.
Leshy bit harder on their legs. And Heket pulled them by their fleece to punch them again.
‘What’s wrong with-?!’
Oh... right... They almost killed Kallamar last night. Of course they would want payback for their brother.
Just before Heket could lay another fist on their face, a wood log hit her from behind... only for it the break in two and not cause any damage at all. It only infuriates her deeper.
"... Oh..." Ratau says as he looks at the now broken wood log on his hands and next at the frog.
Heket's fury now turns to the rat, and differently from The Lamb that had the Red Crown to protect and heal them... Ratau was gonna get snapped like a twig if Heket puts her hands on him. Lambert's heart raced as they saw the shift in Heket's gaze. They felt a surge of desperation.
"Zap him! Fry him! Kill him!" Leshy encourages his sister. That’s the chance The Lamb has to free their legs from the worm.
Lambert managed to free their legs from Leshy’s since he let go of them to encourage Heket to attack the rat. They staggered to their feet once they got away from Leshy.
“ENOUGH!” Lambert yell at the former bishop of famine.
Many followers came running with shovels or other things in hand, ready to defend their leader. Things were escalating too much. And Lambert knew that if confrontation starts Heket would smash their followers, but since there were too many, and she was also on mortal form, she could get hurt too.
Lambert raised a trembling hand, trying to stop the crowd from intervening. Their heart raced as well as their mind. If this turned into a full-blown fight, casualties would be inevitable. The followers would be torn apart, and Heket would be too unpredictable in her fury. They couldn’t let this escalate. But no one gives half a shit to Lambert as everything falls into chaos. And Leshy is again biting on their legs like and angry dog.
"SHUT THE FUCK UP ALL OF YOU!" Shamura suddenly came out of the hut screaming loud and VERY angry. And that was enough to absolutely every single being freeze on spot "MY BROTHER IS TRYING TO RECOVER! HAVE YOU ALL NO RESPECT AT ALL?!" No movement from anyone. No sound no longer "GOOD! I don’t wanna hear a TWEET from anyone for the rest of the day!" Shamura was livid, and after saying that, they return to the hut. Slamming the door shut behind themselves.
Lambert, still trying to shake off the effects of the chaos, sighed in relief as the cult fell silent. Shamura’s intervention had stopped things from spiraling further. They were grateful, but they couldn't help feeling the weight of it all pressing down on them.
They also felt... useless. Shamura with a single action send everything to deadly silent, - even Leshy let go of their legs - and they... the leader of the cult, was not able to do shit. Lambert clenched their fists, feeling the sting of inadequacy. Shamura had the power to command respect in ways they couldn’t, and it only emphasized their own limitations.
'LAMB!' The Crown practically yells to them as it sees that Heket had taken the rest of the wood log from Ratau and was about to hit The Lamb’s head from behind...
... she only does not succeed because Kallamar entered the way between her and The Lamb, and she accidentally hits the squid instead.
Heket's four eyes immediately goes wide, dropping the wood as she attends to her brother that took the hit. And Leshy upon hearing the blow and feeling the smell of his brother’s ichor is able to find the squid, also trying to help. The followers are all around but only watching. Afraid of approaching the bishops and to say anything after Shamura's scolding. So Lambert just send them away.
“Go back to your posts!” They command, their voice firm but weary “Nothing more for you to witness here!”
"Brother, you dump fuck! Why did you-" Leshy was saying.
"I told you to not do it...!" The squid was very groggy from the hard blow on the head "do not... anger The Lamb further..."
"I-idiot...!" Heket says with effort, taking Kallamar on her arms and taking him to the healing bay to treat him. She was already feeling guilty for hitting him by mistake like that. Leshy holds on her arm to not get lost and follows right by their side.
Lambert watch the three of them go, - they also see Egeon that had stayed watching the scene a bit unsure of what to do before deciding to follow the bishops to the healing bay, but they don’t think much of it - and they are left standing there. The cultists were back to their tasks, the bishops at the healing bay... their only option now was to go check on the cat again at the hut, but first they talk to Ratau to make sure their friend was fine. And he was. Lambert took a deep, steadying breath, - one less worry - and made their way back to Narinder’s hut. The chaotic energy from earlier lingered in the air, but the eerie silence Shamura had demanded seemed to blanket the cult.
Knocking softly at the door, they stepped inside without waiting for a response, their steps light. Their eyes darted to Shamura first, then to Narinder.
“Everything alright in here?” Lambert asked quietly.
"Yes, he was able to have the tea." Shamura say, and Lambert can't help but to notice how Narinder lowered his ears. His pride buried six foot deep "Pass me the crushed herbs and the honey."
Lambert nodded, carefully retrieving the itens from where they had been left. They handed them to Shamura, glancing briefly at Narinder. His lowered ears betrayed just how much this entire situation was gnawing at him.
“I’ll get more of these herbs later.” Lambert offered quietly, trying to sound neutral and avoid adding stress to the situation.
"I heard Leshy and Heket outside after I told I didn't want to hear a sound." Shamura say, looking at Lambert’s the bleeding legs briefly "What happened?" They ask while mixing the honey with the bitter herbs.
“Heket hit Kallamar with a wood piece in the head by accident when she tried to... well, kill me.” They rubbed the back of their neck awkwardly, averting their gaze.
Shamura look at The Lamb with concern. But not for the cult leader.
"She hit Kallamar?!" The spider got worried about their young brother since they knew very well their sister’s strength.
"Idiots... always making a mess." Narinder murmurs weakly.
"Shhh... keep your strengths, Narinder." Shamura tell him, standing up "I'll go check on our brother. I'll be back soon." They pass the crushed herbs to Lambert "Assume this for me this time. If it’s not consumed soon, the paste will become as hard as a rock."
Lambert nodded, taking the crushed herbs.
“I’ll make sure it’s done right. Go check on Kallamar; I’ve got this.”
As Shamura left, Lambert glanced at Narinder, who seemed determined not to meet their gaze. The Lamb set to work carefully, mixing the herbs with a bit more of honey.
“Looks like it’s just us again.” Lambert said softly, attempting to lighten the tension “Lucky you.”
'"Fuck you."
Lambert smirked faintly, unfazed by Narinder’s sharp retort.
“That’s the spirit. Glad to see you’re feeling better.”
"I don't care if Shamura told you to do it, you are not giving me those herbs neither getting close to me."
Lambert sighed.
"Narinder, you can yell at me all you want, but you need this, and I’m not about to let you wither away out of sheer stubbornness." They glanced at him "You don’t have to like it. You just have to let me help."
"I don't want your help." Narinder replies "Approach me to try to feed me as if I was a sick and incompetent child and I'll bite your hand off."
Their expression was tinged with frustration.
“Narinder, I get it. You hate this. You hate me right now. But Shamura will be back soon, and they’ll make you take it anyway.” They leaned slightly closer, but tried to keep a safe distance from his teeth “So here’s the deal: you can either let me help you now, or wait for Shamura to force it down your throat. Your call.”
Narinder looks away. The problem was not that he didn't want the herbs, or wished for Shamura forcing it down his throat. He honestly didn't mind about Shamura caring for him. He didn't want THE LAMB to do it. The Lamb took everything from him and put him into that situation. He didn't want his usurper to “help” him. That was too humiliating.
Lambert observed Narinder’s averted gaze, recognizing the silent battle raging within him. They let out a small sigh, their voice softening.
“I get it,” They said “You don’t want this from me. You don’t want anything from me. And I can’t blame you for that.” They sat back slightly, offering a sliver of space “But Shamura trusts me to handle this right now, and... I’d like to think, deep down, you know I’m not doing this to humiliate you.”
"Shamura's poor decision to trust you with anything."
Lambert chuckled dryly, though there was little humor in it.
“Maybe it is. You’ve never been shy about telling me I’m unfit for anything. But you’re stuck with me, or else you can try to do it alone.”
"I can't move at all, and you still tell me to deal with it as I please." Narinder tsks "And you dare to say this is not mockery."
Lambert sighed, pinching the bridge of their nose.
“You’re impossible, you know that?” Their tone sharper now “Fine. You win. Mockery, insult, whatever you want to call it, say what you need to make yourself feel better.” They hold the bowl of herbs more tight, sitting on the edge of the bed “Open your mouth, Narinder, before Shamura comes back and actually shoves this down your throat. Or worse, decides I’m the one who can’t be trusted and handle everything by themselves from now on.” Their eyes met his, unyielding “You don’t want my help? Too bad. It’s not about what you want anymore. It’s about what you need.”
"Let Shamura see how useless you truly are." Narinder mocks once again.
That's it. Lambert was gonna make him eat even if that was the last thing they do.
Lambert's jaw clenched.
“I’ve had enough, Narinder.” They grabbed the cup of herbs with a firm hand, lifting it to his lips “You're going to take this whether you like it or not, so stop being difficult. This is for you, not me. And you will take it.”
They were done being pacient.
Narinder keeps his mouth tight shut, his gaze defiant. Lambert was going to force his mouth open and make him eat it for good. Lambert grab the cat’s chin, their thumb pressing down on his lower lip with an unyielding force.
“Don’t make this harder than it has to be!” They say, their voice with a hint of something dangerous beneath it.
By luck in a moment when the cat was going to curse at them, they pried his mouth open. Lambert tilted the cup, watching as the bitter liquid poured into his mouth. They held him in place, knowing full well Narinder would hate every second of it. But that didn’t matter. Not anymore. Narinder sinks his cat fangs on The Lamb's fingers to make them let go. Lambert hissed sharply as Narinder's fangs sank into their fingers, a sting of pain shooting through them. They immediately yanked their hand back, ichor oozing from the bite.
“Is this really how you want to play this?!” They growled, fingers throbbing with the pain from the bite. They wiped the ichor off on their fleece, not allowing themselves to show weakness “You’ll regret this more than I will, Narinder!”
Lambert barely spoke that, and Narinder spit back on them the little bit of the herbs that were on his mouth. And this time, the cat clenched his jaw even tighter. Really... the others were not joking when they say giving medicine to a cat is a living hell.
Lambert flinched as the bitter spit landed on their clothes and face, the disgust palpable, but they didn't let their anger show this time. Instead, they steeled themselves, eyes locked on Narinder's. Narinder just looks at them with hate. Making sure his jaw was gonna remain close. Lambert’s gaze hardened, sensing the unspoken challenge in Narinder’s eyes. They knew Narinder's pride would make him resist even more.
Lambert moved again, this time placing a firm hand on Narinder's jaw, ensuring that despite the defiance, it wouldn’t be so easy to resist. Their hand didn’t waver as they prepared to press forward, ready to fight Narinder’s resistance. This was about more than just the medicine now, it was about making sure Narinder stayed alive, even if it meant shattering that stubborn pride.
With much effort, Lambert passed his lips, but the cat's jaw was still shut tight. Cats...
Lambert’s patience was running thin, but they knew better than to give up. They took a deep breath and steadied themselves, reminding themselves why they had to do this.
“OPEN YOUR MOUTH, NARINDER!” They exclaim, voice steady despite the rising frustration “You can fight me all you want, but this is happening!”
Narinder snarls and growls, not opening his mouth and looking at them with even more hate. They remember when Egeon got sick a few months ago. That the healer held his jaw in a certain manner and as if it was nothing, going with a finger from upwards to downward, he opened the yellow cat's mouth and shoved the pills on his throat.
Their fingers found the edge of Narinder's upper jaw, their grip firm but not rough, for they didn’t want ot hurt him. Lambert pressed down, and as if by magic, Narinder's mouth is open, as if the cat was not making an effort against them at all. The opportunity was there. Lambert didn't waste a moment. With Narinder’s mouth now open, they quickly moved, slipping the bitter paste into the mouth before he could react. The herbs were in, The Lamb close Narinder's mouth quickly, holding it close to make sure he would not spit this time. The cat was still snarling and growling at them. Their fingers pressing gently but firmly against Narinder's mouth to prevent him from spitting out the paste again. They knew how much Narinder hated this, but it had to be done.
"Swallow it already! I’m not doing this for fun!"
By Narinder's face, the taste of the hearbs was growing even bitter on his mouth, but he still didn't swallow it.
"Swallow it, Narinder!" They urged quietly "It’s for your own damn sake!"
Oh, how Narinder wanted to claw their face off again, only if he could move his arms. Or if his legs were good, he could kick them away. But no. He was helpless on a bed. He couldn't take the bitterness no longer, and with a painful and defeated movement of his throat, he swallows the herb paste.
Lambert let out a soft sigh of relief.
"Good." They muttered, still holding his mouth shut for a moment longer "It’s over now."
Narinder sends them a deadly gaze. His pupils were in a thin slit, ears pointing back, and the angry cat sounds were loud as hell. And that was only a BIT of the paste. There was an entire bowl to go still.
They move their hand away from the cat.
"Bastard...!" Narinder coughs a little, when he does that, a sharp pang of pain crosses his chest. Fuck... Kallamar's anesthetic thing worn off. He was starting to feel pain all over again. And the effort from fight The Lamb to not eat made things worse.
Lambert wanted to give him something for the pain now. The problem now was: The camellias and bones paste run out, Kallamar was not available to make more, nor there was remaining camellias to do it. And the other herbs also ran out. Only thing that could help now was the herbs paste that Narinder refused The Lamb to give him. They had no other option than to feed him the rest of it.
Lambert know what needs to be done, but they also know how much Narinder will fight them on it. Still, they can’t let him suffer any longer, especially when there’s no other option left. With a quiet sigh, Lambert prepare themselves to feed him the rest of the paste, knowing that Narinder will likely resist every step of the way.
To Lambert's surprise, there was no resistance this time when they try to give him more of the paste.
“...Narinder?” They murmur quietly, unsure of what this change means.
Narinder was still glaring daggers at them. But the pain was so absurd and returned so suddenly, that he preffered to let The Lamb do it to diminish the pain than to continue feeling it full strength. Lambert understanding that, prepare another spoonful. Not wasting the chance to do it without the cat biting them.
There’s no protest this time, no struggle. Just the cold weight of his glare, as Lambert carefully feed him the rest of the bitter paste, hoping that it will help ease the suffering, even if just for a while. Spoonful after spoonful. Lambert even pour a bit more of honey on the paste to make it more bearable to the cat.
Narinder swallows the paste. His pride aches as much as his body. Lambert continue feeding him, knowing this is the only option left. The silence between them speaks volumes. Once the last of the paste is consumed, Lambert carefully set the empty bowl down.
Narinder accepting Lambert's help was a stark contrast to moments prior when Lambert had to force his mouth open and force feed him. Narinder was so, SO furious. The bitterness of the herbs had been replaced by the bitterness of dependence, and it showed in every sharp glare he threw at Lambert. Narinder was growling again, but this time, from pain.
The growls rumbled deep in Narinder’s chest, more from agony than fury now. His body twitched involuntarily with each wave of pain that shot through him, his pride too battered to keep up the act. The herbs, though bitter, were starting to dull the sharp edge of his suffering, but not enough to make it bearable. Lambert noticed the way Narinder’s breath hitched, the way his body tensed and jerked with each new flare of pain, and they hesitated for a moment, watching him. There was no victory in this. No satisfaction. Just the quiet tension of helping someone who didn’t want it, even if it was the only thing that could save him from the torment.
That’s when Shamura finally returns.
"How is he, Lamb?"
Lambert glanced up as Shamura re-entered the hut.
"He finally took the herbs." Lambert said quietly "The pain's still bad, though. I don’t think the paste is enough on its own anymore."
"Fever again?" The spider ask.
Lambert reached out cautiously, pressing a hand to Narinder's forehead. The cat flinched slightly but didn’t pull away.
“A little warm.” They murmured, frowning “Not as bad as before, but it might be creeping back.” They glanced at Shamura, worry clear in their eyes “What should we do if it gets worse?”
"If he is having fever now, it means the paste is doing its job. Its healing his organs." Shamura say, seeing the spit herb on The Lamb's fleece and wool. And some remains on their face "I see he didn’t take you feeding him lightely."
Their gaze shifted to Narinder, who was glaring but noticeably quieter.
“It wasn’t easy.”
Shamura nodded approvingly.
“Good. It means his stubbornness hasn’t changed. That, at least, is a sign of strength.”
"And K-Kallamar?" The surprise that Narinder was asking about his brother was big.
"Just a concussion. But he is under observation just to make sure. You know our sister has a heavy hand." Shamura tell him.
Shamura seemed so exhausted. They hadn’t rest enough to be able to continue taking care of Narinder 24/7 as they were trying to do. Lambert couldn't help but notice the deep weariness etched into Shamura's movements and expression.
“You should rest too, Shamura.” Lambert said with concern evident in their voice “You’ve done more than enough today.”
"My brother needs me, Lamb." They say.
"And you need your strength." Lambert countered gently "You won't be much help to him if you collapse. Let me take over for a while, he's stable now."
"But... but Narinder needs-"
"Go rest, Shamura." Narinder says lowly "You need to."
"But-"
"Shamura, go rest." Narinder says again.
Lambert step closer to Shamura, gently placing a hand on their shoulder.
"Shamura, he's right. You’ve done enough for now. He’ll be fine for a while, and you need to recover too."
Shamura hesitate, eyes flickering between the two of them, before finally nodding, though reluctantly.
"Fine... but only for a little while." They murmur, already making their way toward the door. Wanting to rest as fast as possible to be up on their feet as soon as possible too.
Lambert watch them go, then glance back at the cat.
Now its just Lambert and Narinder again.
Lambert stand still, watching Narinder carefully. They take a deep breath before quietly sitting at the edge of the bed, offering a silent presence as they wait.
"How are you feeling now?" They ask softly, unsure if Narinder will even respond, but feeling the need to check on him all the same.
Narinder sighs. Annoyed.
"Feverish... with pain... tired..."
Lambert nod, offering a small, understanding smile.
“Just... try to rest. It’s all that can be done right now.”
"I’m thirsty."
Lambert immediately move to get a cup of water, they return quickly, offering the cup to Narinder with a steady hand.
"Take it slow."
"Tea." Narinder says.
"Alright, tea it is." They set the water aside and headed to prepare more tea. Moments later, they return to his side with a steaming cup, holding it carefully "Here, this should help."
"It’s too hot." Narinder says looking at the steam leaving the tea.
Lambert sigh softly, sitting down and gently blowing on the tea to cool it. They also start stirring the tea with a spoon to help it to cool more fast.
"Give it a minute. It'll be just right soon." They keep an eye on him, watching for any sign of worsening discomfort.
Narinder sighs, he looks down at his arms again, trying to open and close his hands, stretching his claws. He barely is able to move his fingers before he gives up. The pain was big and the effort as well. He even pants a little from doing it. Lambert see the effort the cat is making.
“You’re pushing yourself too hard.” They say after a moment, setting the tea aside to let it cool further “Small steps, Narinder. You’ll heal, but not if you strain yourself.”
"I’m barely moving my fingers and you say that’s too much?"
"With how injured you are, yes." Lambert reply calmly "You don’t have to prove anything right now. Just focus on resting."
"I’m not proving anything."
"Then save your energy." Lambert counter "You'll need it to actually recover."
"Tsk."
"Narinder, if you keep fighting every little thing, you're only slowing your own recovery."
"I’m tired of being stuck on a bed. How long it’s been? Two weeks? More?"
Lambert sigh.
"It's been over two weeks, yes. But that's what your body needs to heal. Pushing yourself now would make things worse."
For someone known as "The One Who Waits" Narinder was not very pacient. Especially after spending a thousand years in prison.
Lambert lean back slightly, observing Narinder's frustration.
"Ironic, isn't it? You spent so long waiting for revenge, but now you can't stand a few weeks of rest." They offer a faint smile, attempting to lighten the mood.
Narinder looks at them angry. Lambert sigh, raising their hands slightly.
"Alright, alright. Bad timing. Just... focus on getting better. The sooner you heal, the sooner you can leave this bed."
"My back hurts... from all the vomiting and from being on this damn bed so long."
Lambert glanced at him, considering.
"Do you want me to adjust the pillows or... try to help you sit up for a bit?"
Sitting up was a big risk to cause more pain, the cat was aware but...
He nods.
Lambert hesitated, watching Narinder closely.
"If you think you're ready." They carefully moved closer, gently supporting Narinder to help him sit up "Just let me know if it gets too much."
Narinder took a deep breath. Preparing himself to be moved.
Lambert slowly and cautiously helped Narinder sit up, keeping a firm but gentle hold.
"Easy, just breathe through it." They murmured, trying to make the process as smooth as possible.
Narinder groans in pain Lambert raise his upper body enough for him to sit. The Lamb puts more pillows behind him so he could rest his body and remain sitting without the need for him to support himself in a straight position.
Lambert carefully adjusted the pillows, ensuring they provided enough support for Narinder to lean back comfortably. Once done, they stepped back slightly, watching him closely.
“Is that better?” They asked, their tone quiet, almost hesitant.
The pain on his back and chest made the air leave his lungs, and he pants in pain. Lambert's expression tightened with concern. Narinder breaths in slowly, nodding that he was fine. Lambert stayed close, watching him carefully.
Narinder for the first time is able to take a good look at his legs now. They were a little worse than his arms. Still exposed flesh and muscles. Very sensitive.
Lambert noticed his gaze lingering on his legs and the subtle shift in his expression.
"They're healing. Slowly, but they are." Lambert comment "We’ll keep tending to them."
"Bandage them again." Narinder orders "Or else there will be pesky insects wanting my flesh soon."
Lambert nodded. The cat was right.
"I'll get the supplies and take care of it now."
"Move fast then."
Lambert quickly retrieved the bandages and healing salve, returning promptly to Narinder's side.
"I'll be as gentle as I can." They assured, beginning the process.
Narinder bites the interior of his mouth to hold back the sting from the bare muscles and nerves being touched by The Lamb.
Lambert worked swiftly but carefully, their movements steady and deliberate.
"Will be done in a minute." They let him know, mindful of Narinder’s discomfort.
Narinder close his eyes tight at some point. Jaw tightening.
Lambert steps back slightly, observing their work to ensure the bandages are secure but not too tight.
“That should keep things clean and protected from insects.”
Narinder seemed so tired already. And it was just lunch time still. Lambert glanced at the window, noting the sun still high in the sky. They turned back to Narinder.
"You should rest again. Pushing yourself too much won't help."
"My tea." Narinder demands it again. By this time, it should not be that hot still.
Lambert pick up the cup. Satisfied that it’s cooled enough, they offer it to Narinder.
"Here. Slowly this time."
Lambert gently bring the cup to the cat's lips. Narinder barely took the first sip and he moves his face away from it. His ears lowering even.
"ARGH! Did you not put sugar in it?!" Narinder complains, if he could, he would rub his tongue to try to make the biterness go away.
Lambert pull the cup away slightly, their voice soft but firm.
"Oh, I forgot actually. But it will be good for you." The Lamb say.
"This awful taste will kill me before doing any good!" He complains more.
Lambert try to suppress the irritation building up.
"You’ll survive it." They reply "Just drink it. The pain won't ease if you keep fighting it." They give him a look, expecting him to comply.
"Put sugar or honey on it at least! For hell's sake!"
They don’t argue.
"Fine." They mutter, grabbing the sugar container they left in the hut previously and quickly stirring the sugar it into the tea before offering it again "There. Happy now?"
Narinder stares at the cup.
"How many spoonfuls did you add?"
Lambert tilt their head slightly, thinking for a moment.
"Two." They answer.
He lowers his ears again.
"Seven."
They add more sugar and stir the tea again carefully. Lambert think about the night before. About Shamura telling them how to prepare the tea, and talking about how the cat liked his tea.
Lambert give it one final stir, watching Narinder closely.
"There." They say "It should be better now."
This time when they bring the cup to his lips, the cat sips it properly.
"It’s adequate."
Lambert nod, relieved.
Narinder drinks the tea as if it was the best thing that ever touched his lips. He really was thirsty.
Lambert watch in silence, noting how quickly Narinder drinks. They can’t help but feel a bit of relief, seeing him calmer and drinking with such eagerness.
"Are you feeling better now?" Lambert ask, wanting to check in but not push him.
"Pain is a little less right now."
Lambert fell relieved to hear that.
"Good. Rest, then. I’ll be nearby if you need anything."
As they said, they remain close, waiting in case Narinder needs more support, though they give him space to breathe and settle.
They both are in silence. Narinder tries to move his legs but gives up. Nope. Hurting too much. Lambert watch him quietly, sensing the struggle.
Narinder really hated that. Especially the fact that he was dependant of care right now. AND FROM THE LAMB. But they wanted Shamura to rest and his other siblings were not available right now... so... he would have to deal with The Lamb for now.
"Let me know if you need anything." They say, trying to keep their voice calm, understanding how difficult this must be for him.
Narinder honestly wanted SO many things... but was not sure if his body could take any of that.
Lambert could sense from miles the frustration in Narinder’s silence. They quietly prepare another cushion to support him further, trying to make him more comfortable without pressing too much. To make things worse, the cat's sharp nose could smell the lunch meal being prepared by the followers outside. He almost salivates from that.
Lambert see Narinder’s nostrils flaring as the scent of the meal wafts through the air. They can see the way his hunger for a real meal is making him restless despite the pain.
“I’ll get you something nice when your stomach is better, alright? Right now is not a good idea.” They offer gently, trying to keep Narinder at ease.
"Tell me something I don’t know." Narinder replies, he closes his eyes for a bit, taking deep breaths, smelling whatever was being cooked.
Lambert think, the cat just got free from a thousand years inprisionment... for what Lambert remember there was nothing but emptiness in the afterlife. Well, Lambert did give him some offerings but... very few honestly.
Lambert hesitate, the thought weighing heavily on their mind. The reality of Narinder’s past, the sheer emptiness of his imprisonment, strikes a chord.
“Narinder,” They venture cautiously “did you... eat anything at all during your exile?”
Narinder doesn’t even opens his eyes to answer them.
"Did you see any crops or a kitchen in the afterlife?"
Lambert frown, the weight of the answer sinking in.
“No... no, I didn’t.” They hesitate before speaking again, their voice softer “How... how did you survive? I mean, gods also need to eat, right?”
Narinder rolls his eyes behind his closed eyelids.
"How do you think? I’m the god of death. A divine being. All powerful. You think I'd starve? And with the Red Crown on top of all? Already being stuck in the afterlife?"
Lambert tilt their head slightly, unconvinced. They themselves didn’t need to eat at all since they became the Red Crown’s bearer, but they still had the desire to do it. So they eat normally as anyone else does.
“You were a god, Narinder, yes. But even gods have limits. Especially ones locked away for a thousand years.” Their voice softens further “You don’t have to act like it was nothing. Not with me.”
"I’m not acting like it was nothing." Narinder says "I don’t even remember the taste of things no longer."
Lambert feel bad about that.
"Then I'll just have to help you remember." They say, determination flickering in their voice "Once you're better, I'll make sure you have meals worth of the god you were."
Lambert also realize, that was the first time Narinder was experiencing flavours again and he was only having water, and bitter herbal tea and paste. They understand better now why Narinder wanted some sugar on the tea. And they wonder again if Shamura thought about it previously as well.
Lambert look at the tea cup in their hands, their thoughts swirling. Of course, Narinder would crave some sweetness; after so long without flavor, even a small indulgence would be monumental.
They glance at the cat, his sharp features softened by exhaustion.
“Shamura must have known.” Lambert think “They always do.”
With a strong resolve, they decide to prepare something better for Narinder when he’s in a better shape, a small step to bring some comfort back into his life.
Maybe... some smashed fruit could sit fine on a weak and damaged stomach in the moment.
Lambert consider it. Smashed fruit might be easy on Narinder’s stomach and would offer some natural sweetness without overwhelming his body. They make a mental note to gather a few soft, ripe fruits from the storage later.
For now, they set the empty tea cup aside, glancing at Narinder’s tired form.
“Rest a bit.” They say “I’ll bring you something later.”
Narinder tries to lay back down alone, but fails miserably at doing it.
Lambert step in immediately, gently supporting him.
“Let me help.” They say softly, carefully adjusting the pillows and easing Narinder back into a comfortable position “There. Just ask next time.” Lambert’s voice is calm, though there’s a hint of concern.
"I’m not a damn invalid! Stop treating me like one!" Narinder practically explodes. He was too stressed and the fever was not helping his mood.
Lambert look him in the eyes.
"You're not an invalid, Narinder, but you're healing. I’m only helping because I care, not because I think you’re weak." They hold his fiery gaze "You’ve been through too much to push yourself into more pain. Let me handle the small stuff, at least for now."
Narinder wanted to tell them once again it was their fault but honestly... it wouldn’t make much difference. And he was too tired for that.
Lambert watch the flicker of restraint in Narinder’s expression, sensing the unspoken words. They quietly adjust the pillows for him again, giving him space.
"Rest for now. We’ll figure everything else out later."