Emboldening

[22:10] He opens his copy of the Codex Cosmos basics, delving back into the teachings of the Faith. Now that he was alone and could focus entirely on the subjects, his mind bridges many more gaps and ponders many possibilities with the stars.

The Leonaus...a magnificent display of the stars they followed as the beginning and end of all. A cycle that flows through them and only them. But one thing that captivated Krono, even moreso than the constellation itself, was the void that allowed it to shine so bright and be seen for what it was. His eyelids lower as his mind journeys into a different view of the Faith.

Perhaps while most or even all the priests look to the light, he was looking at the whole picture. One thing that was noticeable in the Faith was the lack of defining good versus evil. Only that all things are from these stars, the cosmos. A cycle of sins and salvation is through them. But one must travel through the vast space of nothingness to reach these stars. The heavens were filled with a void that shouldn't be ignored, but usually is...in favor of pointing out the bright light of the stars and other cosmic entities above.

But the darkness had to be there, to appreciate what the Faith taught. Krono stares through the book as he comes to an unusual realization. Perhaps it was his calling to test the faith of those who boast themselves as believers. Was this not also the works of a true believer? To ensure the Faith is strong and unyielding, just like the light of the stars above, no matter how much the void surrounds them and closes in. The Leonaus would not be seen if there was no black void between each star to accentuate them and paint the picture. This was the whole picture.
(Krono Mandor)
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[22:22] Krono taps his fingers against the book, staring forward in thought. The void wasn't necessarily evil. It was the perfect tool for the light of the stars to shine through. It was needed. But this vital part of the Faith seemed to be ignored for the most part. Too much emphasis, or even all of it, was placed on the stars themselves. They were the objects of worship for sure, but for the mere beings on this land, there had to be more to it than simply existing as beacons of creation, balance, and reincarnation.

The dark void between each star and all around had to be appreciated for what it brought to the table as well. Without it, the stars would not be recognized, beauty would not be seen, and the light would not be sought out. The Faith could never shine without the void around it to promote it to do so...Krono rationalizes this in simple terms. He had yet to see a priest who spoke of this monumental detail. They all pointed to the stars for grace, without witnessing what made that grace possible to observe and behold.

In his eyes, the job of the void was thankless...demonized, even. It had to be understood and acknowledged for one to truly see the full picture...otherwise they were merely looking at the specks of light that were the stars, and nothing else. They had to see that the void...that nothingness, or darkness, or however it was described, is also a pivotal player in the cosmos. Perhaps it was the most important one...on par with the stars.

Krono closes his eyes. Was this the thought process of a heretic? It couldn't be. He wanted to do the same work as the priests, making the lands better and strengthening the will of the Faith. This idea could very well be the best way to do so, even if it's not liked. The void wasn't there to be liked or adored like the stars. It was there to show what the stars were.
(Krono Mandor)
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[22:26] This was what he wanted to do, and it became clear now. The Faith was his calling, but the path to this calling may have been unorthodox. That's okay, to him at least. The result would be the same, or perhaps even better. The church would eventually see his work and realize the contributions he could make to gaining a true understanding of the cosmos and the stars. It required more than just looking to the stars for guidance.

Krono smiles a little. How could he represent the void? The darkness? To do this without being seen as evil would be extremely difficult. But he had to become someone who allowed the strongest faith to shine, and expose those who were fake believers. The light of the Faith would shine bright if he represented the dark, giving one a chance to prove their faith and will. There were many ways to go about this.

His eyes flit to the door as he ponders.
(Krono Mandor)
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[22:27] * You have been awarded 5 Roleplay Points! *
[22:51] Bob's quick to pull a wide, leathery book from out of his clergy cloak and offer it up.

"I have a couple of the standard one on me most've the time, just for this. Knock yourself out."

With a lowered eyebrow he adds,

"You'll find extra books related to it in the library. Eastern wing, right from the entrance door."
(Rob Ilmanov)
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[22:51] Osric's eyes flicker at the opening of the Cathedral doors, peering upon the new entrant before shifting towards Shin. "I know you will. Those who come through these doors so resolute on making this their life will not falter."

It was that way for himself, too, wasn't it? All those years ago?

"Do consider this your first lesson, however: I, nor anyone else of the cloth, need thanks for our deeds. We do what we do for it is what is right under the eyes of the stars.

If you wish to show gratitude, thank them."
(Osric Durai)
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[22:52] Rain Multhunder whispers something.
[22:53] Krono steps back into the main hall, almost immediately noticing Aeryn and Rain. His lips curl into a smile as he heads over their way.
(Krono Mandor)
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[22:53] Rain Multhunder whispers something.
[22:54] Rain Multhunder says, "Hey there Krono."
[22:54]
-- he was glad to have that done with.

al-Aziz had been in the course of pushing himself back upright into a more proper posture when there followed another voice. His thin lips pressed together for a moment, gravitating towards a scowl; but he restrained himself, and played it off with a half-bow Sofia's way.

"Good evening, lady Pelleaux. You've caught me just after finishing up with some prospective Acolytes."

His hands rubbed together for a moment, as if to return the warmth to them. He felt awful hollow and cold, in the abnormal sense; like his extremities had been exposed to biting winds. The rot of doubt and regret still lingered, but he made himself numb to it.

"Welcome to our parish. If you recall, we've met prior; I am Rector al-Aziz, and the man at the end of the aisle is His Holiness, Stellus Osric Durai. What might I do for you?"

(al-Aziz)
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[22:54] Krono Mandor says, "Yo."
[22:54] Aeryn Aurora whispers: Mhmhm. I'mma head to sleep for now.
[22:54] Aeryn Aurora exclaims, "Good night!"
[22:54] Kuma reaches out his hand and looks over the book. For some reason, the boy had high hopes of it being some crazy powerful shiny book. But seeing it was simple kind of shocked him. But after quickly getting rid of the shock, the boy grasps the book and smiles to Rob. "Thanks mister kind of priest man haha. I'll try read it!"
(Paca Kuma)
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[22:54] Rain Multhunder says, "Good night Aeryn."
[22:54] Aeryn Aurora says, "I'll see you two later, aha."
[22:55] Rain Multhunder says, "Hey Krono, how about we go out again? Some people I would like to introduce you to."
[22:55] Shin Vale says, "I have so much to read and learn, I think I need a moment ouside. Perhaps the sky will look differnt for me now. If no thanks are required atleast allow me this. May the Stars be with you."
[22:55] Krono Mandor says, "Looks like there's a couple priests around...I wanted to talk with them before I head out."
[22:56] Osric Durai says, "With you as well, child."
[22:56] Rain Multhunder says, "Okay, we can meet later then. I'll see you around. Good luck with talking with the Priests."
[22:56] Paca Kuma says, "... So many big words..."
[22:57] Krono Mandor says, "Thanks...I'll probably need it. Heh."
[22:57] Rain Multhunder whispers: Try someone other than Aziz... he doesn't seem to be in a good mood, and appears to be quite tired. You'll have better luck with someone else.
[22:57] Paca Kuma asks, "Hey mister kind of priest cat man?"
[22:57] The boy gives Krono's shoulder a pat and smiles before taking his leave.
(Rain Multhunder)
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[22:58] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[22:58] Rob Ilmanov asks, "Yeah?"
[22:59] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[22:59] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[22:59] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[22:59] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[22:59] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[22:59] Sofia bows her head in turn, giving al-Aziz what seemed by all accounts to by a straightforward and chipper smile. She cants her head to the side, looking past him - towards Osric as well. The man she'd heard so much about. A man of the people, it seemed, even here.

"Thank you for your hospitality, al-Aziz. Of course, I could hardly forget you after the engaging conversations we'd had last time we met." She steps forwards, looking him up and down. Something seemed just slightly amiss to her, but the young woman couldn't hope to pin it.

"I was simply wondering if you'd allow me the dignity of a tour through your church facilities. You're one of the shining pillars of Osrona - it wouldn't do to not know as much as I can about our glorious faith, now would it?"
(Sofia ven Pelleaux)
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[23:00] turns the book over towards Rob and tries to point out a word. "This thingy here? I heard it before and it seemed important..." The finger of the boys would start to glide across the page before landing on the word [Kraus]. "This... Kus...? What does it mean?"
(Paca Kuma)
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[23:00] The teen inhales deeply through his nostrils, then stands up before exhaling. He was nervous to say the least, but it was the necessary step to take in order to get where he wanted to be. At least where he felt like he belonged. He glances at and looks over Osric for a few moments before casually walking his way.

Once at a comfortable talking distance, he gives a bow of respect before anything else.

"Excuse me, your holiness."
(Krono Mandor)
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[23:00] Rob Ilmanov says, "Oh, that's just the fancy name for 'god'."
[23:00] Paca Kuma says, "Woah..."
[23:01] Paca Kuma says, "Big woah..."
[23:01] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:01] Paca Kuma exclaims, "That's crazy haha. Thanks dude priest man!"
[23:01] Rob Ilmanov says, "Welcome."
[23:02] "Yes, child?"

Fingers interlace with one another as the High Priest peers down upon Krono.

"Are you in need of guidance, assistance or perhaps shelter?" Osric offers, "How can I assist you today?"
(Osric Durai)
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[23:02] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:03] Krono Mandor says, "I am looking to join the Faith, sir. To offer my devotion to the stars."
[23:05] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:06] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:07]
Each time his eyes closed, all he could see was that poor boy stewing in his own filth back in the cell. Focusing was hard, and there more than a few absentminded lapses where the young man simply stopped talking or pause- or the pleasant, respectful expression he held faded into something more apathetic.

"It would be my pleasure, if His Holiness is presently preoccupied..."

He didn't even need to look back to check: without listening, even. If people were anywhere near half as bad with himself as they were with the Stellus, the requests of faithful would probably continue so long as he remained. As such, the Priest extended a hand to his side, indicating the humble side chambers.

"Would you wish to visit the prayer room first or last, lady Sofia? It's the most beautiful room in the entirety of our humble parish's dwelling, and a constant reminder of Leonaus' watchful gaze upon us."

The fake smile faltered again, but he did take a step onwards towards the next chamber. He'd been meaning - more hoping, anyway - to ask for something, but luck did not seem to be on his side. Not for the time being, at least. That much had been made expediently clear hours prior.

"As you please, my lady."



(al-Aziz)
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[23:07] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:07] Once more, from the top!

"You know, child, many speak the same thing." Turning away fully does the high priest move towards the side of the staircase, ruffling through a small cart shrouded by a cloth. Hands dig and shuffle between oddly shaped objects before they finally pull forth a large black and gold tome--The Codex Cosmos.

"Many, many different reasons, yes, but all come to join the cloth. And each and every one receives the same exact response:

To join the clergy is to surrender yourself to the stars. To revoke all lands, titles and claims.

Why do you wish to join the Faith?"

Tucking the book under his arm, Osric makes his way back before the teen. The book is not offered, though.

Not yet.
(Osric Durai)
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[23:07] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:08] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:08] A tiny bead of sweat would appear on Kuma's forhead as he continued to read the book. A strained expression rose across his face with increasing clarity by the time the boy hit the 3rd page. But soon the expression faded and instead a simple smile filled his blank looking eyes. The super slow pace that Kuma had been going over the book with before would change into a quick rush of pages being flipped over one another. Small breaks would come and go as he'd stop by one of the headings. After a good minute, the boy shut the book and a triumphant smile shone on his face.

Once more trying to tap the shoulder of the cat man, the boy spoke up. "Excuse me mister cat kind of priest." He'd say before extending the book back. "I'm done!" He'd exclaim before chuckling. "Hehe... I understood nothing."
(Paca Kuma)
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[23:08] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:10] Moira would enter quietly and take a seat. She looked annoyed, or perhaps perturbed, glancing vaguely around the church.
(Moira Keye)
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[23:12] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:12] Bob fails to call out whatever issue Paca had and just says,

"That's 'most everyone's first time with it,"

And shrugged to the youth like this was fine, just fine.

Clearly he didn't expect anything special to happen, and looked away as his attention is apparently grabbed by the main conversations in the rest of the main hall.
(Rob Ilmanov)
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[23:12] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:12] "Do save the best for last, al-Aziz. I trust you to guide me through the rooms further with utmost excellence." She dips her head once more, inspecting the church's interior as she walks forwards. The word that immediately leapt to mind was... simple. It was utilitarian in many aspects - as she expected a church to be. Certainly, she could not see as much gilt than there even was in her living room.

But that was quite alright. It wasn't what she was here for.

"Ah. Stellus Osric. Once I am finished, may we have a word?" She calls out to the hopelessly busy high priest, arching an eyebrow. It was doubtless that Sofia would do nothing but add to his workload, but that was the burden the clergy bore for the nobility, after all...

The Work would never be done.
(Sofia ven Pelleaux)
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[23:13] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:13] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:13] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:14] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:14] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:17] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:17] Krono slowly bends back upright from his bow as Osric replies. The teen watches the high priest intently as he moves to the staircase to ruffle through some things. He takes a few moments to register what was asked of him before answering, staring at the floor before him.

"I've had time to realize this...it all comes down to one thing. Purpose. The stars have a purpose for me here, your holiness. I personally want to understand the stars and their connection to all things, and help others learn what I've learned. But I've realized that this is only what I want, and that the stars might have another purpose for me entirely. Either way, it's this purpose that I'm seeking. I am here to follow what they show me...fully. There's no worldly title or claim that can compare to doing what I was brought here to do."

He looks back up to Osric after speaking, trying to read his expression.
(Krono Mandor)
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[23:18] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:18] Marísol silently looks around. Ooh..A lot of people.
(Marísol)
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[23:18] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:20] "Of course, child."

Osric's gaze shifts over towards Sofia for a brief moment, still hanging onto the large codex within his hands. "Seek me out when you are done. There may be a bit of a queue, I warn you."

With that is the High Priest's attention back upon Krono, fully engrossing himself in the lad's words.

"Child, the stars will guide you whether you are with the cloth or not. From on high their light will find you and bathe you in their radiance. Purpose comes not from the skies above--" Osric steps forward, a small finger poking out to gently tap at Krono's chest. "--but from yourself.

We surrender ourselves to the stars and do their will--purifying the souls of man. We seek to embolden righteousness and devote our lives to it. Every moment, every second.

You musn't have doubts, and you musn't have second thoughts. You give up everything to do so."

Osric returnshis hand back to his side.

"Have you read the Codex Cosmos, child?"
(Osric Durai)
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[23:20] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:20] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:21] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:26] He blinks as a finger prods his chest, but his ears soak in the priest's words. Certain phrases stuck out and hit home for him. Purpose coming from himself, seeking to embolden righteousness and devote one's life to it, and not having doubts. If his purpose was what he wanted it to be...then he had it this whole time. Maybe.

A small smile forms before the question is asked. He did want to embolden righteousness through sharing understanding, but there were many ways to do the same thing. He was just too focused on only a couple paths to the same result.

"Not the entire thing just yet...but I have a general understanding. I've re-read a lot of what I have gone through though."
(Krono Mandor)
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[23:27] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:29] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:30] "I advise you finish it, child."

The book is offered off towards Krono.

A hefty tome, it was. Embossed in silver, the front plate is cool to the touch. Pages upon pages of history and theology that would take a fortnight to fully read over. Many skim through and browse, given how common the book was.

Very few, without direct instruction, finish it cover to cover.

"The moment you join our order, you cease being 'you'. You become a conduit for the will of the stars.

It is a large decision that cannot be made lightly. Finish the tome. Meditate upon it.

If you truly wish to join us, come back. We will discuss it then."

Osric's head bows gently before Krono in apologies before raising it back up.
(Osric Durai)
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[23:36] The teen accepts the book with a nod. He hangs on every word of the priest once more. Finishing the tome would take some time, even though he had read a good deal of it. It seemed to be his first task as an initiate of the Faith; at least that's how he saw it. He was already one of them. It was just a matter of doing what needed to be done to be recognized by the church.

"Understood. I will return with a full understanding."

Perhaps he wasn't grasping the gravity of the decision to join...or maybe this was a test to see if his faith and seeking to join would waver. Either way, he had no intention on changing his mind. But gaining more knowledge on what the Codex Cosmos contained never hurt.

He awkwardly returns the bow before turning to head off for the library again.
(Krono Mandor)
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[23:36] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:37] Hoshizawa Mai whispers something.
[23:37] Avin Lynch whispers something.
[23:37] "I await your return."

Nodding his head in exit, Osric gazes around the Cathedral.

Quite a few had gathered!

"Anyone else in need of my services this night?"
(Osric Durai)
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