Word for a follower of a Pied Piper

The phrase Pied Piper is often used to suggest one who leads others down a questionable path.

I cannot, however, think of the best term to use to describe a "child" following said Pied Piper, in a analogous usage of the story.

What are some ideas for this? Ideally one could use it in a way that someone would rapidly understand the analogy, without requiring a detailed explanation from yourself.


Solution 1:

In addition to sheep and lemming, which others have suggested:

  • Single-word adjective: Enchanted or charmed.

  • Single-word noun: follower.

  • Adjectival expression: to have drunk the kool-aid or to be under the spell.

Solution 2:

If you wish to emphasize the thrall under which the piper holds his subject, consider minion

A follower or underling of a powerful person, especially a servile or unimportant one. [Oxford Dictionary Online]

If the innocence of the adherent is the focus, perhaps the noun, naif (or naive)

One who is artless, credulous, or uncritical. [American Heritage Dictionary]