Preacher and Flock

[Zerachiel]

Even should the world fall around the ears of one or many, it didn't mean that a priest could stop his work. The male had come here, to the place where the strife was quite strident, in order to convince lost souls of a better life. He was clean cut, shaven, and looked prim and probably in his black garb. Although Priests liked to wear white, he was functional and picked black clothing. For he was a priest that often came to those in grief, and eased their hate and pain. For Divine Naga had given him that mission, to find and purify the souls of the many that may fall into the path of the Fell Dragon. The male simply was headed to a location, where a church had once stood. Many came here still, and the apprentice of that church had sent for him.

After all, that apprentice had once been a runaway and he had taken them into the Pasture. So the apprentice knew quite well that the male could handle the ceremonies and more so, the congregation, as he arrived at the crumbling building. With a smile, one of pure good, the male passed the people, their faces confused, as he walked up to the podium. The apprentice seemed relieved, and let the male take over, as he took the rains and led the congregation into the right rites and observances. Of course, Zerachiel was quite happy he got to aid those in need, and even offered them time alone with him to talk of what they needed.

A routine that he settled easily in no matter where he was. But today was a bit special, as he heard steps approaching. ''How may I help you on this day, Child?'' he'd ask his tone soft and gentle towards the figure that had approached him. For all of those were children when believing in Divine Naga. And more then likely, he was older then the recipient by several leagues, unless they were a manakete in disguise. But even then, some were still fairly young still in this world, as the male waited for the response that would come to his words, like a response always did.

Relax god is in control watch the dot take your meds ober my demands trust my dog time for surgery. Last time was the last time, this time you're 100 percent.

(C) ELLIE @ GANGNAM STYLE

[Trinity]

I can't believe I'm here. But nevertheless, such a religious figure in such a place doesn't strike me as particularly... savory. No matter how noble they may seem, in a world like ours, there are always ulterior motives. Trinity thought to herself as she found herself this time in the sullen south; Pyrathi, a pitiful ruins of what it once was; all due to the death of their royalty. Nobles with their petty squabbles and quarrels exacerbated the matter. All Trinity felt towards that, though, was bitter enmity. Today, Trinity was here on some business. She had been tipped off about an apparently holy man who tried to round up the less fortunate with offers of a 'better life.'

He was observed to usually be wearing black, instead of the usual white. Suspicious. Practical, smart, but suspicious. Usually the clergy wore white. Trinity was not familiar of Ylissean clergy that wore black. Unless...? No, that was too farfetched. Trinity had found herself entering a crumbling building, witnessing the congregation. Trinity grinned as she looked positively alien in her crimson garb, and she approached the man confidently. "I would like to speak to your reverence in a more private setting, Father." Trinity said, a slightly sardonic tone could be sensed from the more astute, making it clear that she was not here on some pithy religious adventure.

After all, she was thrown out of her household for refusing to bow down to the traditions set forth by the worshippers of the Fell Dragon, Grima. She would do the same towards those of the Sacred Dragon, Naga.

[Zerachiel]

Ah yes, he often got these. The man turned around slowly, his brown warms genial and warm. His short cut hair was suitable on him, and made him look young and fresh. Although, it was easy to tell by the slight wrinkles around his eyes that he was not a young spry lad. Time had been kind on his features, perhaps he had something to thank his Plegian mother for, and that was the drops of Fell blood in his vein. Not that it was much, but it gave him some leeway in the form of things. Rather it let him be young when most grew too wrinkled and old. Then again, that had never been much of a problem amongst the entirety of their race so he could see.

Well not that it mattered, as a sweet, gentle voice flowed to him, feminine. Yes, indeed, often times he got those that thought they knew him. He just smiled, kindly, warmly, a true Father. ''Then come this way child, the confession booths are this way. We shall be insured total privacy that way, if that is your wish.'' he said, his smile still on his face. Yes, perhaps, the girl had been rude, but he had a service to hold. He had taken stock of her already, and was already turning his back on her, leading her to the confessionals. If she had been an assassin, more then likely words would not have been spoken, but he could not rule that out of the young girl's stride and being.

No, Zerachiel was more experienced then that by far. For he did take in those that were lost and had no direction, a single gaze to the priest in learning confirming his function. All requests for him would be on hold, as the black garbed man stopped in front of an isolated pair of rooms opening the door to the first one. ''Come in child, I shall meet you presently.'' he said, the smile still on his face. He was glad that he got to help another lost lamb, and once the girl, if she had chosen, was safely in, he would make his way to the other side. Of course, he had caught that tone in her voice, but had not let it show in any manner. He had a long time to learn what to show and what not to show, and well...

No those thoughts were not to come now, as he would then close the door, events now in motion. All hinged, however, on if the girl accepted to enter the booth he had lead her to, in order for their private discussion of course.

Relax god is in control watch the dot take your meds ober my demands trust my dog time for surgery. Last time was the last time, this time you're 100 percent.

(C) ELLIE @ GANGNAM STYLE

[Trinity]

The man seemed to take rhe remark well enough but Trinity knew better. She did not care much for how he felt. She may have seemed rude, but that was how she treated the religious act - rebelliously. She deemed such acta of holiness to be unnecessary for life, and she showed it as such. When the man invited her insode for what appeared to be a confessional, Ttinity kn she had little choice but to oblige. She calmly followed the man inside the room and took the unoccupied side pf the booth which she saw the man enter. "Dear father, you should knpw, that I have certainly sinned a lot, but I do not come here seeking forgiveness. I come here seeking information. On you, of course, father, for I am curious about your motives for delivering such a 'salvation' upon your motley flock..." Trinity said once both her and the man were settled into the booth. Trinity smiled devilishly, but the man of course could not see that.

"So please, would yiu care to embellish me with your wisdom? Why bother to perform such noble deeds at your age? Spry as you look, you couldn't possibly be doing this out of the goodness of your heart."

[Zerachiel]

The lovely red maiden seemed to respond to his suggestions and his leading fairly well. Although she waited for him to go in first, which was fine by him, as the black garbed priest settled himself in the small small. He could hear the maiden's words, and knew that she was trying to get to the bottom of him. Not that it bothered him, his intentions were his alone. Many came to him suspecting and he had no issue with that. Nobody truly understood the black garbed priest, as the girl seemed to claim her sins but not searching for absolution. Indeed, she wondered about his motivations, as the man let out a soft chuckle, before turning to look at the grate on the wall separating them both.

''Ah my dearest child, that is precisely why I do so. I may seem young and healthy, but life is a very cruel mistress. As such, I choose to guide those that are lost, give them a home and a place to be. I was once such a child after my mother's death, and my father's weakened constitution forcing me to live like an urchin. Luckily, we had family here in Ylisse, and they took us in from the kindness of their hearts. I wear this garb to this day, to mourn the passing of my father and his wife. Of course, I dare say I have been working this vocation for longer then you could talk child, but that is no matter.'' he said, taking a breath.

''In age, one realizes that there is no alternative reasons in the end of your prime, simply what you intend to do with the world. As such, I take in all of those whom wish it, and guide them on a path. Life on The Pasture is indeed ruled and hard for those weak of spirit. But for the dregs of society, it is a welcome respite from the harsh treatment they suffered. Saving many in the name of Naga is to repay my mother's taking in the name of Grima perhaps. I am not ashamed of my roots, child, hence why I tell you this. I wish to aid the many, and in doing so, properly mourn the unfair passing of my father's wife from this world.'' he added, stopping once more to gather his thoughts.

''I wear this garb to mourn for those whom die, good or evil, for no matter the path of life, each life is precious. And that's why I do my life's work child.'' he finished, smiling gently at himself. He believed in every word he had spoken, and the male seemingly relaxed in his chair, as if taking it all in. ''Of course child, you are free to ask any question you desire, I will offer my guidance and services. I am quite acquainted with several people, and though your sins are many child, you will always be forgiven for a pure heart. '' he added, breathing out.

''For there is no sin if there is no guilt, despite society's cry of what is normal. That is what ejects those on the fringes away, and I do not believe in that.'' he said, finalizing his thoughts to the girl. Perhaps she would under better now why he served the way he did and why he wore black. But of course, it was a lot of talking, so who knew what the girl would think. But he was indeed curious about the maiden in red, as few decided to try and talk to him upfront like this. Sure, many felt like something was wrong and off, but they were never right, or rather, unable to find a trace of evidence. Their gut feelings were strong, but there was never anything to show for it. He had gotten used to it over the year, and despite what people thought, he did truly believe in this.

It was perhaps their fault for doubting him too much.

Trinity

Relax god is in control watch the dot take your meds ober my demands trust my dog time for surgery. Last time was the last time, this time you're 100 percent.

(C) ELLIE @ GANGNAM STYLE

[Trinity]

"You..." Trinity sighed as she patiently and attentively listened to the man's story. She knew that something seemed off, but she couldn't pinpoint it properly. Not when the man had an honest alibi. It would be impolite and disrespectful and would tarnish the man's opinion of her to contest that fact. And to say the truth, he was probably twice her age. She knew better than to argue against those older than her who actually seemed reasonably sharp. "You are right, I suppose. Life is a cruel mistress after all. I was thrown out, cast out by my family for refusing to bow down to the traditions of the Fell Dragon Grima. But that has led me to a different path from yours. Where you... seemingly save lives, I take them indiscriminately, in the name of Coin." Trinity said, and if the man was observant enough, he could notice Trinity's devilish smile from through the grates.

"So I suppose you could tell that I came here with less than savory intentions in mind, but as you may undoubtedly be thinking already, I have no proof for what I mentally accuse you of, so it is futile on my part to pursue that line of thinking." Trinity sighed, her voice lowering. "There's no reason for me to doubt your story, anyway. I am simply just a wanderer seeking her pay. What do I know?" Trinity laughed, almost sardonically, which would easily tip off her intentions to the man before her. "And I am also seeking a renewed outlook on life, you know? Things are so boring now."

It was true, Trinity had been growing increasingly distressed at the lack of interesting marks to kill, the lack of thrills in her life since her teenage years, the lack of what it was that made her trade so exciting. She couldn't imagine the idea of having to settle down, alone, anyways.

[Zerachiel]

Ah, it seemed like he either irritated or perhaps even offended the girl. Well no, perhaps his defense had been so solid that her suspicions were just that. Suspicions without any basis on his actions or person, or even logic. In fact, most of those that became suspicious often had a gut instinct about it he knew. And he couldn't mask that, but his picture perfect defense was more then enough. He had no need to resort to strong measures, as The Pasture was completely safe. He let the child speak, watching from what he could see in the grate, and caught that little smile of hers, but did not directly acknowledge it. But the male let out a soft chuckle, and rested against the wall, closing his eyes for a moment.

''I see. I doubt it would always remain interesting child, simply because life goes through a cycle. Peace and Chaos. We seemed to still be that still of peace era, although the troubles of chaos are brewing behind back doors I'd assume.'' he said, gently ruminating his insights and his information. Another soft chuckle, as he gave a sideways glance to the girl. ''Simply put, those of your trade often need two. One for chaos, were coin leads their allegiance, their lives. Many join onto a company, as then it's more likely to earn keep that way, although that seems less... amusing to what you do. It is one method of dealing with the lull of peace time.'' he said.

Taking a breath, he continued his speech. ''A second is that during peace times, they engage in more political activities. Subterfuge, feuds... prey amongst the greedy to get their money and get out. Most of the famous ones, those that are good, do this. However, some lead it like a double life. I've... encountered many of your kind, child, so I know the works. Some after me, some given to me, and some come to me for freedom of their sins and guilt. It honestly depends on the person. Some prefer to be alone, some prefer to have cover, and some just look for the fun in it all. Perhaps you should think of what your life has given you, and find your path.''

Ah, without meaning to he had begun speaking very much. But he assumed it was natural in a confessional, particularly one that was questions and answers, not confession and forgiveness. ''I probably sound like an old man, perhaps even a father with that. Regardless of your path child, your destiny is your own. Naga and Grima watch over us indeed.'' he said, a slight bit of sarcasm in the last word. It was very subtle, but it underlined the male's entire belief system. But he let his breath slip out now, letting the girl disassemble the words he had spoken. In between the lines, there were a lot of things to be interpreted, but the male would voice something more concisely after she had spoken.

After all, he had to listen to her first, as he was a father of faith.

Trinity

Relax god is in control watch the dot take your meds ober my demands trust my dog time for surgery. Last time was the last time, this time you're 100 percent.

(C) ELLIE @ GANGNAM STYLE

[Trinity]

Trinity sighed as the man began to launch a speech that she basically really didn't care too much about. "I didn't come here for a homily, sir," Trinity heaved, scratching her head. "I don't really care about that nonsense. I live for myself, to perfect my craft, and to amuse myself," Trinity sighed. "When you're left with nothing because you refuse to bow down to tradition, sometimes people end up going in strange directions. You should know this. I am sure you get that sort of folks all the time." Trinity continued, now beginning to impatiently rap her fingers on the table. She did not believe solely in faith to attain success... Well, technically, she had to have faith in herself, but that was a different kind of 'Faith' to the devout belief one had for a god, like Grima, or Naga, or whatever other deity existed in this universe.

"It's clear that I'm not going to get the answers I seek anymore talking to you. Just thought you should know, don't blame me if somebody finds out what you really do and gets the proof for it. You're safe from me. I haven't got any reason to go after your throat... Yet." Trinity said casually, though the tone she spoke made it clear that she wasn't entirely serious. Whether she was trying to be scary or whether she was genuinely trying to be threatening was up to debate, as she sounded incredibly childlike for that time. And then she continued. "I chose this life. I chose this life of crime. Regardless of the amount of sin I've committed... I really don't care. I don't really regret it one bit."

[Zerachiel]

Ah, the impatience of youth. The narrow-sightedness of youth. He had forgotten about those details, as she had listened to him before, the male laughing heartily. ''Ah, I seem to have carried on dear child. I am a preacher, I do tend to do that.'' he said, feeling more then amused at this entire situation. Would she really dare to ignore his wisdom and warning? Because time was not kind to her type of people. Age was a thing that crept up, and bound one's efficiency to a rock and sunk it. Well, it would not be his fault. He had tried to warn her in his own way, but he once more forgot, that not everyone did like to listen to his ramblings.

''Even though you have no reason to, perhaps you could simply talk to me. After all, it shouldn't hurt now would it?'' he said, half-wishing he would have found a private room in which to share tea with her. But perhaps this would suit the two just fine, as the male let out a small smile. ''Child, should you ever be paid coin for my throat, let me part to you some warning. Many, better of your kind, have come to me. None have won their contract.'' he said. Ah, yes, he did remember the rumours one of his contacts had told him about once. About how he was unkillable, simply because no assassin had managed to finish him. Nothing seemed to kill him, not even a church collapsing on him alone.

What most people didn't know, is how he managed to be that lucky. He said he was blessed to the public. But that wasn't quite the truth. The male liked this child's honesty enough to warn her. After all, do let a sleeping dragon lie was a saying he could easily see applied to himself. The male shook his head, and smiled. ''Child, do keep in mind I will not condemn your life. Regret or not is your choice. I merely wanted to suggest alternate paths, and the many endings I've personally witnessed.'' he said simply. He was quite old, and he had seen a lot. Such things to him, were common place considering what he spent his life doing.

The Pasture was often a place where many went to end everything, and start annew. But it was also a place where many found the dead ends they had engaged themselves in, and he was the reaper that took away their former lives, giving them something new. He did so itch for tea however, and perhaps was half a mind to offer some to the girl. But perhaps she had already gotten sick of talking to him, which he would not fault her for. He was a priest, and he did tend to preach, even in normal discussions. It was just part of his nature to give advice, even if unheeded and unwanted.

He just wanted to help other people.

Trinity

Relax god is in control watch the dot take your meds ober my demands trust my dog time for surgery. Last time was the last time, this time you're 100 percent.

(C) ELLIE @ GANGNAM STYLE

[Trinity]

Trinity resisted the urge to scoff. She was disinterested in the prattle of the clergy, disinterested in the pointless banter that arose from religious and spiritual pursuits - regardless of the person's affiliations. Whether they worshipped Grima, or Naga... Trinity didn't care. "It's not really that I don't take stock in what you're saying, honestly. I just can't tell if those beliefs of those are really yours or if they're just a veil of superficial spirituality," Trinity said, sighing, and deciding that she didn't want to feel like this trip was a total waste of time, so perhaps she could just indulge in some idle banter and chit-chat for the meantime. "In case it wasn't already blatantly obvious, I'm not exactly a fan of religion. I'm not going to be one to call people foolish for their seemingly blind worship, but if my personal experiences are anything to go by, it seems that attached to the act of spiritual enlightenment is an irrational attachment to deities that seem to have more interest in the destruction of humankind or something totally utopian in nature, which to me strikes me as ultimately pointless." Trinity said, sighing.

And on that note...

"Oh, and before you get the wrong idea... I'm among one of the best. I've become a wanted criminal in my own land for all the terrorism I've wrought among those blind zealous worshippers of Grima. I can kill people without even laying a hand on them. I've gone too far down this path to really consider turning back. Your intent is admirably noble in a world as cruel and as abhorrent as the one we live in," Trinity said lastly. "I'm just saying... I don't appreciate the attempt at conversion, or the attempt to instill virtues that I personally have thrown away at this point. I'm going to be straightforward and honest here... You do seem understanding enough, after all, as befitting of someone of your stature."