Chapter 37: Church of the Earth Mother
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The next Sunday morning found Klein rising early, his routine commencing with a leisurely breakfast before he settled at his desk with pen and paper in hand. He meticulously drafted a letter addressed to Isengard Stanton, urging the assistance of the police in verifying the current status of suspects implicated in a serial murder case from four years past. The victims, he noted, were single prostitutes accompanied by children.
Once satisfied with his letter, Klein folded it neatly and slipped it into an envelope, affixing a humble one-penny black stamp. After dressing himself with care, he donned his hat, took up his cane, and set off down the quiet streets toward the mailbox stationed at the corner.
En route, Klein noticed the elegantly attired figures of Mrs. Stelyn Sammer and her husband, Mr. Luke, seemingly ready for a significant occasion.
"Good morning," Klein greeted them warmly. "It's early for such formal attire. Where might you be headed?"
Luke smiled warmly in response. "It's not exactly a formal affair. We're lending a hand today."
Mrs. Stelyn added proudly, "Mary has been accepted into the National Atmospheric Pollution Council. There's a grand ball tonight, and we're assisting with preparations."
"Mary's wish has come true? How impressive," Klein remarked with genuine pleasure. "Please convey my heartfelt congratulations to her."
Luke nodded appreciatively. "Have you had the chance to check this morning's paper? The full council membership has been announced. Sir Ders Shaw is the Chairman, Mr. Hibbert Hall serves as the First Secretary, and Mr. Arthur Pendragon is the Second Secretary."
Klein raised an eyebrow. "Sir Ders Shaw? Mr. Hibbert Hall? I'm afraid I'm unfamiliar with them, aside from Mr. Pendragon. Let's hope they bring blue skies and sunshine to Backlund," he quipped lightly.
"Yes, indeed," Luke agreed with a hint of melancholy. "While burning in one's fireplace is a cherished freedom, blue skies and sunshine are universally desired."
He gestured toward the rented carriage waiting nearby. "We must be off. Mary needs our assistance urgently."
Stelyn added with restrained enthusiasm, "There may be Members of Parliament attending the banquet, representing Backlund or even the kingdom."
"I can only imagine the splendor of such an event," Klein remarked politely, watching as the Sammers boarded their carriage and departed.
...
Arthur's days had grown increasingly hectic with his dual roles in prominent councils, a whirlwind of meetings, negotiations, and strategic planning sessions consuming his time. The weight of responsibility on his shoulders was palpable as he juggled these demanding commitments.
Next Monday, he found himself accompanying his mother to the Church of the Earth Mother. He thought his mother served goddess evernight but he served Lilith instead.
"Why are we going there today, Mom?" Arthur asked, genuinely curious.
His mother smiled warmly, her eyes reflecting a blend of purpose and affection. "I've been meaning to donate some money. There's an issue they're facing that needs support from the community."
Arthur nodded, understanding the urge to contribute to causes close to her heart. "And you also mentioned thanking them for their help a few months ago. What was that about again?"
His mother chuckled softly, teasing him gently. "Oh, you've forgotten already? One of the priests treated you when you weren't feeling well months ago. It's only right to express our gratitude."
They walked together, the chatter between them easing the weight of their thoughts on the impending threat of war that loomed over their world.
"Mother," Arthur ventured, his curiosity piqued, "why did you choose to follow the Mother Earth goddess?"
She paused, a nostalgic smile tugging at her lips. "It all started when I was young, fascinated by gardening but struggling to make my flowers bloom. Then, a tired priestess stumbled into our garden after a party. She saw what I was doing wrong and offered invaluable tips. We became friends, and I gradually found myself drawn to the Earth Mother's teachings."
Arthur listened intently, captivated by the simplicity and depth of her journey. "So, seeing the flowers bloom when the priestess recited the goddess's name—that's what convinced you?"
His mother nodded, her eyes twinkling with memories. "Exactly. It was as if nature responded to her words. Silly reason, isn't it?"
Arthur shook his head, smiling warmly. "Not silly at all, Mom. It's a beautiful reason, and it suits you perfectly."
Their conversation flowed as they approached the church, its serene atmosphere enveloping them as they stepped inside. Sunlight filtered through stained glass windows, casting colorful hues onto the polished floor.
"Might we stay for a moment?" Arthur asked softly, feeling a sense of peace settle over him.
His mother nodded, her expression serene as she lit a small candle near the altar. They stood together in quiet contemplation, the flickering candlelight adding to the tranquility of the church.
"This place," Arthur murmured, breaking the silence, "it feels different, yet comforting."
His mother nodded in agreement. "It's a sanctuary, Arthur. A place where I find solace and strength, especially in times of uncertainty."
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