~Cardinal Sins; Dirge Of Saints~

[MoMoMix]

"You... You can't do this...!!!!"

The horrible ravings of the condemned ran rampant throughout the hollowed grounds, becoming more incoherent as panic overwhelmed logic and destroyed his usually smug and calm demeanor. A combination of residual drool and blood emptied into a pool, as vile and meaningless as the verbal drabble that tainted the very sacred realm they inhabited. Still, it was nothing but the ramblings of a worthless and insignificant criminal, someone beyond the grace or attention of the greater workings of God; something beyond redemption and certainly not entitled to a merciful passing. Slowly the guards, completely adorned in the traditional garments in honoring even the dishonorable in their execution, continued their methodical and menial tasks. Despite his constant preaching and opposition, there was little physical resistance involved; the flesh admitted the hopelessness of the situation, but the mentality of such unenlightened weren't as capable of accepting death or eternal punishment. His struggles were futile and completely out of spite, a last display of rebellion before bowing in humility to the inevitable arrival of death. Continuing to ridicule and spout random swarms of insults, his outbursts were temporarily quelled as more blood showered downward, the ebony gauntlet of one of his captives finding the maximum tolerance and losing restraint. The fresh scent of decay and degeneration infiltrated his heightened senses, reviving his conscious to the endeavor at hand.

"You have no power over this!! I demand an audience with Her Majest-" Quickly he was silenced, his throat holding the remaining syllable, locked in a grasp of surprising loathing and hatred. Encased in an unusually ivory glove given the situation, the Cardinal seemed to be a disturbing sight in contrast to the abundance of black and sin; nothing more then a beautiful flower in vain trying to restore a wasteland. His brow furrowed in agitation, allowing previous comments but contesting the right for such common and despoiled individuals to even mention the glory of their leader. Slowly increasing the pressure he placed on the criminal, Cardinal Invec seemed to find enjoyment and amusement in the suffering and observable reactions of the newest enemy of the Church. Like his fellow members of the clergy, he seemed to be a pristine and absolute paragon of holiness itself; an embodiment of the unexplainable and unfathomable perfection that they symbolized. Brushing aside a locket of blonde, he seemed to treat his own vanity in greater respect in comparison to those branded as traitors to the throne of heaven. Empty eyes narrowed as he leaned inward, taking in the expression of twisted realization, finding euphoria in the bewilderment of others. "You are nothing. You will never... Ever... Address Our Majesty. Not in this life, and certainty not in whatever fate awaits you after I pass my judgment. Tell me... Do you see this?" He slowly traced an indention into the sand between the two, his gaze remaining on the heretic, his grip not allowing him to fulfill the question he offered. "This is a line you will never fathom. You will never realize. You will never even know of. This separates criminals from Cardinals. The insignificant from the significant. The unworthy from the meaningful. Our Majesty has bestowed upon us the power to ensure justice remains dominant over chaos..."

".... And validates whatever hatred I have for those such as you."

~ Purification Of Blood; Infernal Prayer ~

Unfortunately for Cardinal Invec, his unusual behavior for someone of his position began attracting a crowd, starting with a few stragglers but perpetually feeding itself as he became more erratic and distraught. Whispers slowly started filtering, growing in concern and distress as the display starting becoming more vile and disturbing, especially for one with such prestige. Several other criminals were lead toward the execution grounds, each more disturbing and disfigured then the previous. Splatters of blood and dried gore adorned the tattered shambles of their previous existence, some barely conscious and only animated by being dragged from their captivity. Each was given similar treatment without hesitation, roused enough to be aware of the perils that awaited, then nailed against the gallows despite their cries of anguish and protest. Metallic nails were carelessly driven through flesh, concern and respect no longer viable ideal, with punishment and purification being the only drive. More rumors and realizations became apparent, in specific the barbaric fashion that this certain execution was being conducted, but as well the newest and more disturbing variation of Cardinal Invec. Usually the clergy, when displaying executions of criminals, displayed a more chivalrous and elegant fashion, regardless of their perception on the already condemned. Usually the garments were of absolute ebony, a respectful tribute to the death of anyone and a common practice that was enforced for centuries of the Church's reign. Yet, the Cardinal remained in his normal apparel, preferring to be in continual worship rather then showing neutrality and perhaps even compassion to enemies.

All of the sudden, the line drawn in the sands that distinctly separated the two classes seemed to fade away...

"My people... Under the approval of Her Majesty, will the land be purified further of the blood of criminals." It was true, his words seemed to show nothing but nobility and virtue, but managed to conflict with a deceptive and sadistic impression. The rumors and conversations died out as the attention of the now gargantuan crowd become focused, turning inward and finding nothing but more horror from the display in front of them. The guards, having finished binding the traitors, began collecting an assortment of perishables against the gallows. Eyes widened in disbelief, accompanied by shrieks of surprise and astonishment; they were to be incinerated? The usual methods of fatality were quick and painless; perhaps a bit to merciful to those that willingly opposed the divine, but a demonstration of the infinite charity and understanding that even opponents and fanatics were offered. Those conscious began slipping into insanity, yelling random obscenities or unanswered pleas to be spared or given another chance. A dark smirk was their only explanation, nothing more then a reaffirmation of the destiny they sealed by willingly shouldering the radical ideas of being unjust. One of the guards approached Invec, kneeling as he presented his superior with a rather exquisite torch. Holding the instrument of conversion that enforced the ideals and practices of their Lord, he couldn't help but feel empowered in his duties.

He was a vassal...

As long as he had his Lord's favor... He was infallible...

Without a moment's chance of doubt or consideration, that torch was lit, brandishing a blaze of unmatched glory. Turning toward those soon passing from this world, he ceased conducting their execution, if only for moments to relish the anxiety and pure fear they spilt from their souls. It was nothing short of marvelous... The true power of their Lord. Walking forward, with each step his stride increased from anticipation, his conviction growing as well until he felt invincible in his decisions and actions. "You... Without the favor of our Lord, is without his protection. May you know forgiveness and humility in the flames of His glory and compassion." One last sneer was offered, a gesture without much taste and quite the blow to the reputation of the clergy. Throwing the burning embers amongst the culmination of wood and debris, nothing save the screams for salvation and crackling of the flames encompassed the world. Amongst them, disturbing in its very being, was the gradual and uncontrollable laugher of the envoy of God, taking pride and ecstasy in the execution of the unworthy and perfection that even the wrath of their Lord was only capable of. The people become overcome with a sense of dread and misunderstand, unable to comprehend the unholy ritual unfolding in front of their very eyes. With that hideous pervasion, for the first time, had justice faltered in its unquestioned authority.

Flames slowly swept across the strewn remains, rising and falling tides of scarlet faultlessly razing the flesh of its newest victims. Warped and progressively disfiguring bodies remained perched on display, not only an execution but also a planned example of the wrath they were capable of. Scarlet blood slowly seeped from still fresh wounds, running along singed flesh and deposits of salt before disappearing into a rather grotesque vapor. Screams and cries became muffled as lungs filled with ashen and smoke, hapless in even requesting assistance or fortune from the most omnipotent of providers. They were beyond saving and soon... Beyond existing. "The smoldering presence of ash.... The brutal caress of fire.... Rejoice!" Invec was beyond entertained, finding a euphoria in the moment, capturing the essence of suffering and using it as an excuse of repentance. True, their mortal lives were quite ephemeral, yet in his recollections the amount of anguish and despair was infinite and easily to his convenience. Watching the very will of his prisoners leave, nothing save roasting corpses no longer identifiable remained in the purging pyre in the grounds of the Church. "To you goes the honor of leaving this world cleansed and renewed!! To even you.... Is the gift of a new life!" Staring at hollow sockets carrying the remnants of inhumane torture and sadness, he couldn't help but tremble from the pure excitement and jubilation granted. Just past his gaze, he could feel accusing glares, empty attempts of judgment from those that had the misfortunate of attendance.

But he was infallible...

Slowly he grasped the small treasure adorned against his neck, comforted from the glimmers of reflected light and calmed as his nimble fingers outlined its curvature and structure. That moment of rapture faded, returning to dormancy as his senses regained control of the situation. He felt at peace, felt overjoyed in his meager role in reshaping the world... And with the small trinket still locked in his hands, he felt invincible. Still flickering, sputtering as if infected from incinerating the husks hanging limp and lifeless, the flames finally followed suit in demise. The crowd's roars, whether in agreement or defiance, were snuffed out in unison as they awaited the remainder of the execution. The procession would soon begin, candles already being ignited and swaying in whimsy with the passing gales, soon to be followed with the tranquil and haunting chorus of both strangers and acquaintances. As if programmed into their very conscious, the observers humbled themselves and knelt in preparation, already reciting the first verses of the proper dirge to guide the lost on their journey. A tradition of solidarity, slowly the first few lines were recited: "Deliver us from this evil and guide us to-"

"Stop."

Every audible notion ceased immediately, the world itself standing still as the hymn was interrupted. Eyes opened, flickering around wildly to locate the origin of the voice, only to shudder in horror as they found the visage of the Cardinal as responsible. Obviously infuriated, the crowd questioned why something so imperative was stopped, especially from that of a member of the Church. Seconds of contemplation followed before his frown was renounced, his words carrying both a somber and regretful feeling. "They are not worthy... Of such luxuries. That is all." And without considering the consequences of his actions, he turned away, escorted with the remaining members of the funeral guard, furthering the frustration and confusion of his people. Catching the blackened skeletons of his enemies, even Invec couldn't ignore the sheer desperation that remained. Clutching that golden cross and holding it against his heart, he quickly sorted through his thoughts and continued onward.

"Burn in Hell...

.... Amen."

~ Dirge Of Saints; The False Divine ~

Entering one of the few portals into the Church, Cardinal Invec seemed distressed, his heart gradually increasing its beats as his mind frantically fought against itself. His strides became smaller, eventually having him fall behind his escort, but it was merely an extraneous detail that wasn't of concern at the moment. His thoughts continued to persecute him, yet he continued to believe that his position would justify his actions regardless of the opinions of his peers and those he served, that to fall from their favor would be to rebel against holy mandate itself. Walking throughout the hallways, a nagging feeling of displacement started to surface, more evident as he continued back to his own corridors. It was an extravagant building... Hallways constructed of ivory, separated only by golden pillars rising upwards into the clouds themselves.... Light filtered toward his right from gigantic windows, his movement alternating between the graces of both shadow and brightness, alternating between a comfortable warmness and unfamiliar chill. Tapestries adorned the other surfaces, telling stories to anyone willing to listen, silently reanimating memories of the past into the here and now without a moment's break. Stained glass windows filtered light from above; the myriad of colors scattering whatever darkness would have otherwise remained. Yet amongst all this brilliance walked a Cardinal covered in ashes and drowning in doubt, the very idea sickening that he could bring shame into such a sanctuary of perfection. Another painful heartbeat, lasting what seemed to be an eternity, would have further drove him to insanity had-

"Cardinal Invec."

The voice was projected in a rather shaken manner, despite the tone being immediately recognizable. Glancing upwards and escaping his own thoughts, he found the prudent glance of another Cardinal inspecting him, lips sealed shut as he contemplated how to address this pressing situation. Offering a smile in an attempt to remedy the tension, Invec barely nodded his head as if understanding the difficulties others of the clergy were facing. "Brother Mazhar, there is no need for formalities. Please address me not as someone of rank, but as an equal..." Cardinal Mazhar's downward glance troubled him, his words beginning to stutter as his belief in their friendship faltered, his hand once more moving to clasp the cross, drawing power from the one certainty in his life. ".... As well as a friend..." A sigh followed as the conversation adjusted, losing that casual atmosphere and immediately adopting a condescending tone. Piercing raven eyes challenged the validity of that previous statement, settled against an alabaster complexion further paled given the circumstances. Slowly he became more irritated, the temple in his forehead pulsating as he attempted to quell the growing aggravation. "What is wrong with you...?" It was Invec's turn to frown, heavily displeased from what was usually an esteemed opinion of one of the greater ministers in the Church. Exhaling slightly, he was surprised when he wasn't given opportunity to respond, instead continuing to be slandered and questioned.

"Those prisoners, while traitors to Her Majesty and the Church, were still mortals and extensions of our presence. They were not found guilty of any charges and were entitled to an impartial trial, yet your actions have taken a mysteriously reckless approach." The black fabric of his funeral robes swayed as he took a step forward, pointing an accusing finger at what seemed more and more like a fraudulent imposter of his former companion. "Under no circumstances are we to proceed with anything outside our influence. Especially in such a childish and brutal manner... You have tarnished the reputation and made a mockery of everything we represent and symbolize! What excuse do you have Cardinal?! Personal feelings? Previous experiences? Anything pertaining to the matters of your life outside the Church is prohibited in the governing of the people. So pray tell..." His voice echoed harshly throughout the hallways, escalating to the point where nearby members, provoked by their growing curiosity, walked over to observe. Rarely were disputes allowed, usually conducted only in council meetings and more sophisticated variations. "What reason do you have for your actions...?"

"Simple Mazhar...

They were evil... Thus....

They perished."

"Things aren't that simple.... You know that..." Mazhar's voice dropped to a whisper, his gaze directed toward the window now, finding comfort in the falling showers of light. "And why can't they!?" A flustered Invec responded more aggressively, over exaggerating the Cardinal's opinion on such an ideal. "Black and white... Good and evil... On this hallowed ground, things can be considered just or unjust with such simplicity! Wouldn't this world be better off, should the wicked be rebuffed and excised from this life? We are Cardinals, extensions of the Church and thus granted its unfathomable power! I have justice on my side. I have God on my side." Refusing to join his comrade in what surely would end in perpetual arguing, Mazhar threw aside the disgust of the arrogance in that claim. Pointing a finger toward the cross Invec so cherished, he continued his explanation in a more civilized manner. "God is indeed on your side. But..." With that, he pointed toward himself in return, the direction moving from the shade into the light, from an agent of God adorned in white to one in black. "God is on my side as well. Even if it supports your intentions, you still stepped outside the boundaries of your power in pushing forward the execution. Or is there an explanation for this as well? I'm sure tha-" He stopped midsentence, overcome by shock and feeling weak as he retreated slightly.

Proudly repelling Mazhar's preaching only needed the revealing of a single decree, the paper still neatly folded and marked with something that couldn't be opposed or questioned. In azure ink against the parchment, displayed in all its grandeur, was the stamp of Her Majesty itself, approving of the execution and most likely granting permission to the numerous offenses Invec otherwise couldn't have done. A maelstrom of thoughts and questions gathered in the troubled Cardinal, yet only a single word was uttered. "Impossible...." It was eternally retold that in the middle of the lands in this world stood the hub and authority of the Church. This was a sanctuary of repentance and forgiveness, of guidance and enlightenment upon grounds that virtue frequently called home. In the middle of this Church, in a chamber rarely visited, was where Her Majesty resided. One step away from ethereal, chosen as the envoy and voice of our Lord, she was constantly referred to as a paragon of justice and charity. Yet, somehow, Her Majesty was capable of an atrocity such as this..? "I was granted the freedom to do whatever was necessary. I recommend you cease opposing it. After all... With this, to oppose me is to oppose Her Majesty." Turning away Invec attempted to return to his regular duties, satisfied in his explanation and no longer troubled, if only for a few moments. His enemies were humbled or executed, with the Lord's favor in one hand and support of Her Majesty in the other; Invec truly felt invincible. "That's.. That's impossible!!"

[MoMoMix]

"Excuse me...?" Invec's tone was drenched in annoyance, his eyes narrowing to slits as he halted his retreat. Mazhar questioned whether to continue, not wishing to incur the aggression of his companion, but concerned of the affairs that were occurring. Whether he was willing to admit it or not, the Church for the first time was experiencing the precursor to a revolution. It was expected of course; nothing can remain solitary and regardless of its independence, eventually the tides of time erode and change everything we consider familiar. "What right have you to dabble in affairs beyond your control and influence?" A rather demeaning smirk followed, Invec sighing as he shrugged in response. "Correct me if I'm wrong... But we are Agents of God; we are His eyes and His ears. Why not His wrath? We enforce His laws, why should our extension of His prowess cease in prevention?" "What... What happened...?" Mazhar murmured underneath his breath, starting to realize that he was losing ground in this conversation. "What changed you Invec...?" Cardinal Invec was previously assigned an expedition to survey the country and in an unusual turn of events, nominated the idea of traveling past the routine lands underneath the Church's influence. Leaving an embodiment of perfection and ethereal, the Church was astonished that in his return, he lost certain qualities during his journey. The Cardinal of Justice had abandoned his priorities and surrendered his usually merciful behavior, instead taking on a more aggressive and fanatical perspective.

"I have seen things... Things foreign to the Church and its Children. Our grace only extends so far and it is this weakness that allows chaos and sin to infect the landscape. We are notorious for the infinite forgiveness and charity we offer, all in the good will of making this world a better place of worship and virtue. But by offering second chances, we aren't inspiring conformation, but turning a blind eye toward infractions. I could show you thousands of injustices and atrocities Mazhar... Every day and night in my expedition, no matter where my glance headed, I was incapable of escaping the suffering of our people, all because of a much too lenient tolerance." Attempting to understand his preaching, Mazhar found an absence of a suitable response, fearing further explanation should he provoke further. The Cardinal and friend he knew no longer existed; yet, personal relations weren't of concern at the moment. "The things you're speaking of Invec... Are you challenging Her Majesty and the Church?" He hesitated as he spoke, trying to sound more like an inquiry then an accusation.

"Are you instigating a revolution...?"

"No... A reformation."

~Cardinal Sins; Sanctuary Of Virtue~

No one ever believed it could happen...

A Cardinal was imprisoned with the threat of execution.

Running haphazardly throughout the corridors, her heart was racing and breathing deep as she attempted to maintain her balance. Turning another corner she continued to randomly yell in a noncomprehenable manner, her dark robes flowing with each stride and attempting to trip her should a single misstep happen. Her response to the news of Cardinal Mazhar's imprisonment and being revoked of his status was quite improper; the other servants in the Church were quite surprised with the tidings but responded in a more practical manner, further showing her behavior as childish and novice. Gabriel moved an arm to shield her eyes, perhaps trying to recover from the embarrassment of her outburst, but most likely a blockade to prevent others from realizing she had been crying. Emerald eyes showed a scarlet hue, tears welling up and streaming down normally rosy cheeks, barely passing her trembling lips. Locks of crimson fluttered behind her, restrained with a golden bow neatly sitting on her head, thankfully preventing what would have otherwise been a blinding sprint throughout the Church's hallways. Gentle fingers wrapped around the cross against her chest, her eyes closing for a brief moment as she started to collect herself once more. "Please Father Mahzar... Be safe... With Her Majes-"

Her prayer stopped short as she collided into someone else, her frail form bouncing back, accompanied by a quiet yelp as she glanced upward. A small collection of people stood patiently outside a rather gigantic door, silently praying for their comrade as well, but more importantly awaiting audience. Looking upward she sheepishly met the gaze of one of the many Bishops that populated the grounds; giving her a small smile before extending his hand for assistance, the gesture at first ignored until she caved in. "Sorry... What's happening..?" Immediately she felt rude, so casually going from an apology to an inquiry of the situation. The commotion was too much for her to be reminded of proper behavior, the Bishop himself not even noticing. "We're awaiting an audience with Her Majesty..." Her eyes lit up slightly, thinking for a second before finally asking what was on her mind. "Could.. Could I come with?" Normally audiences were only permitted to Cardinals and the higher ranks, with the lower members of the clergy passage only in the larger meetings. Apprentices however, regardless of any other circumstances, were prohibited in attending however; a rule mostly kept around ensuring that the highest regards and respect were offered in the presence of Her Majesty. She bit her lower lip a little, awaiting response as the conversation continued to strength amongst the congregation. Distracted by the wildfire of gossip, she was sadly given no response as people tended to their priorities.

The sound of the portal opening slightly followed, barely audible but enough to silence everyone present. "You may now enter, servants of the Church." Maintaining a sense of civility, the assortment of attendants shuffled in, with Gabriel barely fitting in with the crowd. The inner chamber of Her Majesty was quite the intimidating sight; the room was gargantuan, much larger then she had imagined, despite constantly inhabiting the surrounding hallways. The walls were decorated in elaborate designs of fabric and writing, hidden underneath pillars and arches supporting what seemed to be several floors. Walking forward, she noticing the others humbling themselves, not daring to speak a single word as they knelt on the purple carpeting adorning the floor. Following in suit, she stared down with much impatience, finding the ritual unbearable. She needed the answers now, the explanations for Father Mazhar's imprisonment and the questionable acts of the returning Cardinal Invec. "We surrender ourselves to your glory and presence... We are lost... Please, guide us." Silence followed, something that quite infuriated her as her mind raced. Was this arrogance? Did Her Majesty not care for her subjects? Everyone else remained calm and restrained, their eyes closed as if in meditation, as if refusing to even address Her with eye contact.

"Majesty... What of Invec's pursuits?" Another question followed, unfortunately meeting the same fate of remaining unanswered. Seconds passed, ticking off into minutes and yet the congregation remained patient. Gabriel became more irritated however, clenching a portion of the carpet with one of her hands, her entire body trembling as she tried to steady herself. "Majesty... Why did Cardinal Mazhar be arrested..?" A different voice, another inquiry, and yet still there was no response or comforting returned. Her patience gone, Gabriel starting muttering underneath her breath, eyes closed tightly as she raged onward silently. "Why... Why won't you help us?" An answer finally followed, her expectations however not fully met as a hush was thrown her direction. "Apprentice... We find the answers in ourselves... Her Majesty is a guide..." The explanation did little to satisfy her conscious. To everyone else this was a meeting of meditation toward enlightenment, something a little too abstract for a youthful mind to comprehend. It seemed unfair though, were they that insignificant? For all the adoration... All the devotion... For someone of such esteemed opinion to look upon Her servants as nothing was an agonizing realization.

"Why do you let this happen?!?!" She could no longer tolerate being tossed aside and ignored, standing up and yelling as loudly as possible. The other members of the clergy were mortified, glancing upward from their positions of prayer to find that it was a lowly apprentice that had the nerve to directly attack Her Majesty. Her actions were true however, faith and conviction only sustaining a person for so long before renewal was necessary. Gabriel's eyes widened slightly, the room expanding upwards in an unfathomable distance, each level practically identical to the previous. The very chamber seemed to disappear into the darkness, the epiphany perhaps in heaven itself amongst the clouds. This was the difference between the mortal and the divine, something no was could be prepared to acknowledge. Still however, she continued her rant, recovering enough from the shock to continue despite the occasional stutter or pause. "H-how could you let Cardinal Mazhar down!? Don't you know... Don't you know what's happening?? The Church... It's threatening to... To fall apart...." She was a voice in a world without a will, allowing all present to face the harsh reality. The world continued to change, eventually and inevitably it would effect and contort the tradition and powers of the Church itself. Several of the clergy rose up, attempting to remove her from the room, met only with a frenzy of thrashes and kicking as she opposed.

"My child..."

Was that... Her? It was unprecedented in all previous audiences for Her Majesty to ever respond. Rather, usually those requesting to be in her presence finding salvation and validation in themselves. Everyone ceased their movements, caught in a combination of awe and disbelief. Seconds passed, perhaps the sound was mistaken for another person..? Or worse, it could have been a figment of her imagination to distract herself from that growing fear.

"Even here in the Church are we amongst Angels and Demons..."

Disclaimer: Under no circumstances are the ideas and concepts presented anything more then hypothetical interpretation and are not to be considered insulting or derogatory toward any religious beliefs.

[Brazoliange]

thanks for that awesome story, dude!



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