Page 4 of Theoden

“Did you have those sinful feelings again?”

I lowered my head and nodded. “Yes, Father.”

“What have we told you about letting such evil thoughts enter your mind?”

“I am to never let the devil in, Father.” I looked up at him, tears in my eyes. “I did not mean to. Please forgive me.”

He reached down, stroking my face, his thumb brushing away my tear. “You must be stronger than the devil, for he will try to take you away from your path. He knows you are God’s warrior and he does not want you to succeed.”

I wiped my tears from my eyes and nodded. “Yes, Father. I will be strong.”

He nodded. “Good. You must never, and I mean never, remove the lock that you wear. Doing so will only make it easier for the devil to get inside of you.”

I had been wearing a leather subligaculum with a lock attached at the side to keep me from touching myself in a way that God disapproved of. I was only allowed to have it removed for bathing, during which I was watched. Once dry, Father Lucinius would place it back on me. It was for my own good, I knew it. But it was not pleasant to wear, especially when the other boys got to wear nothing at all or more comfortable loincloths.

I nodded. “Yes, Father. I will obey.”

“That is good. For you have an amazing journey before you down God’s path, Theodosius.”

I looked up at him and felt uplifted by the pride in his eyes as he gazed down at me. “I will train hard, Father, and be the greatest.”

“I know you will. Now, come.”

I went inside to bathe and complete my evening endeavors. Soon, I would be able to prove to everyone as I slayed the blood drinkers just how special I was.