Emma walks along the room, book in hand and glasses perched on her nose. She looks up in confusion at the sudden question. “What- no. Last I checked you’re no animal for me to keep with a leash… what made you asked?”

The older woman frowns and closes the book, setting it on the desk and walking over to Eleanor. Cupping her cheek, her blue eyes connect with the young woman’s own. “Who said that? Hm?”

The mother gives a slight disapproving sound. She’d like to know who was responsible for this. Eleanor, however, was no snitch. She did not tell on people which was admirable. “There’s none.”

She knows exactly why. Only they and the father are privy to it but Eleanor knows exactly why she is kept around. Eleanor is special, has a big purpose in the commune, the cult.

That is not the only reason but it is her purpose within the commune. Everyone has one. Emma gently grips her jaw. “Are you doubting me?” She asks so soft, so sweetly. “Are you having any doubts in general? What is going on?”

The older woman is silent, observing Eleanor for a moment. She moves away and walks to the sofa, taking a seat. “Come here, sweet one.” Her voice is tender, motherly. A finger points right before her, indicating for the prophet to kneel before her.