The Abasement of Greyfall

[Shinros]

Ran into a writing block a few months ago, stepped back and decided to break out of reading warhammer. Dove into old movies, lovecraft etc, now I am applying when I learned. I hope people will enjoy this short story. 

 

Our End

 

My name is Ansel Hasley, this will likely change because ruin was coming, I cannot stop it, I cannot hide from it. I’m just one person, an insignificant speck, I wished I did things differently, but it was too late now. So I wish to help others, to write down the horrors I have witnessed and can barely describe. I don’t know how far this evil has spread or even if it dwells within the other shrine cities, but if the seed of evil has taken root there? That will be our end, it will be our end.

     I start with this dark message because you may not have the time to read my entire tale, this was the only way I can warn you in very few words. But if you can read my tale, guard your soul and mind, that’s all I can ask. 

 

[Shinros]

Chapter 1

 

So my journey began as I stepped off the flyer, I was excited, jubilant at my assignment after studying at the Schola, a great institution of the Imperium which trains the young to be model and productive citizens. I personally gravitated to faith, so I chose the path of a monk, I was one of many being assigned to a church on Arum, specifically the city Arum-4. Each shrine city on the vaunted world was almost a continent spanning monstrosity, frequented by many within the Gaivar sector, the world was led by Cardinal-Governor Isiah. 

    I wished to be a preacher, a man who faith who spreads the word of the grand God-Emperor to the masses, it was a dream of mine in the Schola hence why I gravitated to that school. Looking around, I pulled out the folded map from my robe, the piece of paper was a cumbersome thing because of the size of the city, but my assignment was marked on the map and I was told they were expecting me. I was assigned to the Church of Saint Alessia.

   With my destination clear I folded the map, it took several minutes. I then made my way across the space port, taking in everything around me. Cherubs were fluttering through the skies, they were holding vox-units that were playing a recorded vox-cast belonging to the Cardinal-Governor, some were praising his name, chiefly the unwashed pilgrims that were journeying to the world. I also spotted nobles who were being escorted to their cars parked near the pavement. They were likely being taken to the towering golden cathedrals in the distance. 

   I soon stopped my sightseeing and hurried to a parked cab, the vehicle was black in colouration, there was also a holo-projector installed on the roof of the car. The arcane machine was projecting the word taxi. I got into the vehicle and as I took my seat the driver looked back and grinned. ‘New arrival?’

     ‘Yes I am, I just finished my studies.’ 

     ‘Ah, I see.’ The cab driver returned his attention to the wheel, he then adjusted his black cap. ‘So where are you going?’ 

     ‘The Church of Saint Alessia.’ I answered. 

     As I spoke the name I noticed the driver began to furrow his brow, I could see it clearly on the rear-view mirror. ‘Are you sure mate? There might be a mistake.’

    ‘No, I’m quite sure I double checked before I left the Schola.’

    The cab driver sighed slightly, he starts up the car and began the journey. As the car was moving along the road I noticed the Grand Cathedral of Saint Patrick, it was a towering edifice that seemed to almost reach the skies. The driver noticed me staring, he spoke up again. ‘The church you are going to is the biggest in the graveyard quarter, it’s known as Greyfall.’

    At the mention of graveyard I frowned, I was told the opposite, that the church was a great beacon of the Emperor, I expected something different. ‘Can you tell me more?’

     ‘Yeah, if you want. The dwellers in Greyfall are an odd lot, like to keep to themselves. The priests, gravediggers and those who live there. I hear that their practices are also quite strange, but they adore their patron saint, Alessia. Despite that they are hard workers.’

      ‘As long as they work hard that is what counts, the Emperor loves those who labour hard for him.’ I said with an ounce of reverence.

      ‘True, but the issue is those who live there tend to leer at young men and women like yourself. They’re quite ugly folk as well, some call em’ grubs or welts. Most likely due to the gravedigger blood running through their veins. Some call it the Greyfall look.’ 

     Hearing him demean his fellow man in such a fashion made me bristle slightly, those who tend to live in gilded towers tend to look down on those who do the harsher work. I didn’t trust the driver at that time, but I wanted to remain polite. ‘I see, thank you for letting me know.’

    The cab driver nodded, we continued the rest of the journey in silence, but as we reached Greyfall, I shifted slightly in my seat, the name was apt. The buildings have an old rustic quality, but they seem to bend, obscuring the sun slightly which causes the surrounding area to have an odd gloom to it. The gothic architecture that littered the streets and houses also had a malignant and warped look about it, from warriors tearing out the throats of heretics, images of execution and death. I accepted all of this because this was the place where the dead were housed on Arum-4.

     Soon enough, I caught sight of people walking the cobbled streets and again the driver appeared to be right, those who dwelled here were a host of skin tones but every single person was dishevelled and thin. Their eyes had a vacant look about them, what didn’t help either was the fact that many of the females were leering at me, I quickly tore my gaze away.

   After almost twenty minutes of driving, the cab stopped before a grand church replete with skeletal angels which were covering their eyes. The cemetery beyond the black gates also seemed to be several miles long, the murky fields were home to gravestones, catacombs and gravediggers who appeared to be hard at work. 

     ‘This is your stop.’ I picked the nervousness in the driver's voice, I couldn’t blame him, he most likely wanted to leave right away. 

    I nodded at him. ‘Thank you.’ I reached out and paid the driver for his services and then left the vehicle, but as I do so the cab driver almost speeds away down the street. I took a deep breath, the air was quite fresh, something I didn’t expect. I then steeled myself and continued into the church, as I walked down the path I found that the gravediggers were staring, I tried my best not to meet their judgemental gazes. 

    When I reached the door leading into the church itself I found a priest and a nun waiting for me. The priest was wearing a standard ecclesiarchy robe which was covered with purity seals, and he sported biretta. While the nun was wearing a cream coloured robe, a red habit was resting upon her round face, I also noticed prayer beads were wrapped around her waist, The ecclesiarchy I was dangling from it. The common thread between them was they lacked the Greyfall look. That one fact gave me hope that the driver was plainly wrong. 

    The priest came forward and took my hands and tapped the back of them, I didn’t resist that would be disrespectful. His aged face shifted to a smile. ‘Ansel Hasley correct?’

    ‘Yes that is correct, I assume you are Father Joel?’ I made sure to do a bit of research on the priest, so I could make a good first impression. His smile broadened.

    ‘Indeed, that is my name. I can tell you are a smart one.’ He looked back to the nun. ‘That is Xotha, the head nun of this church. She’ll be taking care of you from here, I’m quite busy at the moment, but I wished to see the new face that is joining our family.’

    ‘O-Oh, you didn’t have to do that.’

    ‘Think nothing of it! It’s rare we get a monk so young and fresh as well.’

    He stressed those two words, young and fresh, I didn’t dwell on it since many young men who are fit in the Schola tend to gravitate to the army, so I took the compliment in stride. ‘Thank you father, I won’t let you down.’ His gaze comes back to me, he taps the back of my hand again and nods, he then turns away and enters the church, leaving me alone with Xotha. 

    The head nun quickly came forward and nodded ‘hello Ansel.’ her voice was silky and smooth, all the strangeness and concerns I had with Greyfall fluttered away to the wind. 

    ‘Hello Sister Xotha, it’s good to meet you.’ I offered my hand, she took it. I noticed her skin was both soft and delicate as well. As our hands came away she smiled. 

    ‘If you will follow me, I will give you a tour of the church.’ I returned her smile, I was excited, my dream was about to begin, I just didn’t realise it was going to be a dark one. 

Edited February 16, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 2

 

Xotha showed me around the church, the main hall had all the basics from church benches and confession booths. But what took my breath away was the host of wax candles, it was the only source of illumination in the church, but the dim light played well with the giant statue that sat behind the palanquin. I assumed the statue was Saint Alessia, it was made clear to me that she was one of the Adeptus Sororitas as well due to the design of her power armour. The Saint was standing on a mound of snakes, she was spearing one of them with her sword. With the aid of the candles there was a beautiful halo playing across her head as well.

     Xotha catches me staring in awe, she quickly explains my duties here. ‘As a monk you will be in charge of maintaining the statues, candles, prayer books and general cleanliness of the church. You are also expected to study the word of Saint Alessia as well.’ 

   Her explanation breaks me from my spell, but I was quite curious to learn about the saint so I became eager to read her word. It was quite evident that she was extremely important to the dwellers of Greyfall. As I nod to Xotha, she takes me to a side passage which leads to the stairs, I notice a set heading down. ‘So what’s down there?’ I asked.

     ‘We keep our old books in there, nothing more. Father Joel wishes to refurbish the room into a private prayer room.’ 

     ‘I...see.’ I didn’t entirely believe her, but I didn’t push any further. The head nun then led me to the second floor, it contained a host of hallways and rooms. 

     ‘Ansel this is where the monks sleep, there is also a shower room down the left hall.’ Xotha proceeds to reach into her pocket, she hands me a key with the number ninety-four engraved upon it. ‘That is your room key.’ She then points to the right hallway. ‘Your room is down that corridor, each of the rooms are numbered so you can’t miss it.’ 

     At the time I couldn’t believe I had my own room, in the Schola I was stuck with a roommate and unfortunately he was quite annoying as well. ‘Never knew I would get my own room.’ I just blurted the words out. 

     Xotha chuckled to my tiny outburst ‘since we don’t have prayer rooms I think having some privacy is important. Also you don’t have to worry about the third floor.’

     ‘May I ask why?’

     ‘It’s quite simple, that is where the nuns lodgings are kept and I must stress sexual relations are prohibited, break that rule and you will be lashed twenty times.’ 

     Such a rule was normal, it was part of the Schola as well. ‘We should be totally devoted to the Emperor, I don’t understand why someone would do such a thing.’ 

     ‘You’d be surprised Ansel, many are weak to flesh. Now if you would follow me.’ Next, she led me to the fourth floor. The third was skipped because as she said, it only holds lodgings for the nuns. The fourth floor though, was another room that took my breath away. It was a large dining hall that came with a wooden long table, but the portrait at the end of it was the main thing which was filling me with religious awe. I slowly walked towards it, Xotha was following closely behind. 

     The portrait displayed what was clearly Saint Alessia standing at the head of the table, her hands were out and sitting at the table itself appeared to be a mix of warriors and priests, heartily eating a meal. The heads of each individual in the portrait had a halo, but Alessia’s was the most grand. ‘This is the first supper’ said Xotha. 

     As she spoke I twisted to her, she had a great amount of reverence littering her voice. ‘The first supper? What did it entail?’ 

     ‘The vaunted saint offered her companions the blood and flesh of angels, so they can gain the strength to combat the plague and heretics that sought to topple Greyfall.’

     I became perturbed at the thought of devouring the flesh and blood of angels, my interest in the subject was quickly declining, but it was likely the story was more a less a metaphor. The truth behind the story was likely that the Saint blessed the meal and that gave her companions the vigour they needed. ‘The story is wonderful Xotha.’ Again I was trying to be respectful.

     The head nun nodded in agreement. ‘It is, now…’ She pointed to a set of double doors in the corner of the room. ‘The kitchen is in there, we have a group of monks and nuns whose main job is to handle these two rooms.’ Xotha then brings her hands together, she gives me a warm smile. ‘Just one last stop Ansel.’ I nod to her, the head nun then took me the last floor which only contains a single hallway and a door. ‘Now, Ansel. The room down this hall belongs to Father Joel, at the moment he is busy so unfortunately I can't you in. That concludes the tour.’ 

    I wasn't all that upset at the given information, Father Joel had a whole church to take care of. The fact he met me at the front filled me with joy, it showed he cared. ‘Thank you Sister Xotha. I’m actually quite excited to be here.’ 

     ‘Think nothing of it, now I have duties to attend to, can you find your own way back? You can take the rest of the day off, it’s been a long day for you I imagine.’

      I saw this as another test, the answer was obvious. ‘I can, thank you for the tour. Still I can’t wait to get to work.’ Xotha smiles and we leave together, as I reach the second floor she heads down to the first. Since I was alone I briskly made my way to room ninety-four, the door had a sliver sign displaying it clearly. Staring at the door I quickly realised I meant what I said, I’m excited. I can’t wait to work.

     I grasped the door handle and opened the door to my room, as I stepped in I proceeded to lock it with the key given to me by Xotha, but I also noticed that there was a flip-lock attached to the door. I decided to make use of it, privacy was something I could afford now. I then quickly turned and took in my new bedroom.

     There was a desk that came with a chair, a book shelf replete with a host of tomes and the room also came with a chest of drawers. To cap the entire room off was the large single bed, sitting upon it was a black leather book, it was called The Word of Saint Alessia, the title was woven into the leather via a golden thread. 

    Seeing it I approached and picked the book up, I read the first few pages. The Saint states that that humanity has a mandate to rule the stars, this mandate cannot be completed because of humanity itself. They have become frail in both body and spirit, through nurturing both one can gain the strength to cast down the heretic. Every able follower of the Emperor must swear to this path if humanity wants to rule. This was dubbed the first oath.  

    The message within wasn't uncommon, worship of the Emperor comes in many forms and what Alessia was professing in her holy word was not all that different from most scriptures. Confidence welled up in my chest, but the journey soon caught up with me, I yawned and got ready for bed, my new life slowly began to take shape in that moment. 

Edited February 16, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 3

 

The sound of a knock graced my ears, when it came again I shot up from the bed. I hurried over to the door and unlocked it and as I opened it, revealing the Head Nun Xotha, she gave me the sort of smile which oddly warmed me up in the morning. ‘Ansel, we are having a special morning service. Can you please get ready?’ 

     I gave her a curt nod to her order. ‘I shall be ready in a moment Sister Xotha.’ 

     ‘Good, today is a big day for you.’ She walks away, I close the door and rush to the drawers, I pick out a fresh robe and towel and head to the bathroom. It was pretty basic, it was tiled and there was a door leading to the toilets. I left my fresh robes and towel on the railing and undressed, I threw the dirty clothes in a nearby basket. 

     I decided to have a quick shower, I didn’t want it to be too long but I hoped to get enough grime off my body, as I finished I grabbed the towel and cleared away the water, once I was sufficiently dry I put on the fresh robes. I then left the shower room and before heading downstairs I returned to my room to drop off the towel.

    Upon arriving on the first floor I found the monks and nuns have all gathered. They were sitting on the church benches, Xotha was at the front and Joel was standing in front of the palanquin. The father was holding a large brown leather tome which was replete with gold and silver plates. As I was spotted from the side passage Father Joel called me over. ‘There you are Ansel, please, come here.’ 

     My nerves started to race, it was obvious that this was a test of some form. But it didn’t help either that as I walked over to the father I picked up on the fact that many of the nuns and monks within the church actually had the Greyfall look. They had vacant, almost haunting eyes but unlike those outside they weren’t untidy in terms of appearance.  

     As I reached the priest he held up the tome up to me. ‘Ansel, this is the first piece of scripture Saint Alessia has ever written, if you are to join our family please place your hand upon this tome and speak the first oath. Voice it how you wish.’

    Again this was another test, if I said the oath incorrectly it could harm my chances in becoming a preacher. I took a deep breath before speaking. ‘As a one of the faithful I solemnly swear to nurture my body and spirit, for the stars grow dark every day and the plague of heretics always seeks to test us, by nurturing these two pillars we will finally succeed in taking what rightfully belongs to mankind.’ I felt the power behind my words. My hand resting on the tome was tingling, looking into the face of Father Joel he was brimming with pride. 

   ‘You may remove your hand Ansel.’ I nod and do as the priest asks, he then turns me around, those present rise and began clapping, I felt welcomed and already this church felt like home. I enjoyed those times, I wished it lasted forever. Father Joel then tapped my back. ‘Right then!’ he announced. ‘Let us have breakfast!’ 

    We all headed upstairs, everyone was in good spirits and as the congregation arrived in the dining hall we all took our seats, Father Joel sat at the head of the table, I took the middle seat at the table. All the plates and cutlery was set, we were merely waiting for the food and after about a minute or two of sitting the cooks left the kitchen. Each of them were pushing a tray trolley which held pantry dishes lined with food, as we were all served no one was eating so I abstained. 

    Once all the food was set the cooks left, Father Joel rose from his seat. ‘Let us pray.’ I bought my hands together and closed my eyes. ‘Emperor, we thank you for letting us dine on the meat and blood of Angels. You allow us to enrich our souls so we can bring forth your mandate for the galaxy… N’yob…’ 

    The whole hall mimicked the end of the prayer, I didn’t say the word N’yob because it was lost on me, I haven’t heard or seen the word in my studies. I slowly opened my eyes and as Father Joel sat everyone began eating. I hoped no one noticed that I didn’t say the word to end the prayer, I picked up my knife and fork and looked down to the food. Breakfast was sausages and toast, the meat was oddly coloured, it bore a strange purple and veiny tint. But that didn’t stop me, my stomach rumbled and the meal smelled wonderful. 

    I proceeded to cut the sausage, it squirted a black liquid which enriched the meal further. I stabbed the piece with my fork and ate the piece of meat, I chewed it slowly. The flavours caused my taste-buds to spin. My eyes then shifted to the glass filled with a black juice, I took a few sips from it. The beverage had a nice zing to it, but as I drank I could see that the monk next to me wasn’t really eating. He appeared extremely tired and had bags under his eyes. 

   The others were staring at him, the haggard young man seemed to be about my age and he was also playing with his food, it took him a moment to realise the gazes of the others were on him, so he started eating the toast, he didn’t touch the juice or the meat.  I thought he was being rude so I simply continued with my meal.

    When breakfast finished we broke up and returned to our duties, I soon found the haggard young man lighting the candles in the main hall, I approached because I was greatly concerned for his health. ‘Excuse me. Are you alright?’ 

    The young man turned, he frowned. ‘Edward.’ 

    ‘What?’

    ‘That’s my name.’ Edward then yawned. ‘What do you want?’ 

    Always wanting to be polite I offered my hand, he didn’t take it. I drew it back to my body when I realised this, so I introduced myself. ‘Ansel, you seem tired Edward, not getting enough sleep?’ 

     He leaned in close to me, close enough so he could whisper. ‘It’s not safe to talk here, come to my room after dinner. It’s room ninety-three.’ he leaned back and turned away, leaving me in a state of utter confusion. I sighed and got on with work, so far it was uneventful, evening soon arrived and I found myself at the long table again.

    Father Joel said the name prayers and this time I made sure to say N’yob, with the prayer ended I started my dinner, this time it was steak and vegetables. The meat held the same qualities as the sausages and tasted just as good. For the evening beverage I was given a rich red wine, it was bordering on the colour black but I caught the red within. 

   But like before I found Edward wasn’t eating save the vegetables. My curiosity was rising, at first I was going to dismiss him as a merely unfriendly individual but slowly, I started to think that there was actually something more going on with him.

   As dinner concluded Edward left the dining hall first, he didn’t help pack the plates on the trolleys which pushed my curiosity even further. So after discarding my cutlery I went to his room and fortunately for me his room was next to mine. I knocked and and after a moment the door opened, he nodded as he saw me. ‘So you came Ansel.’ 

    ‘Just want to understand what your issue is, that’s all.’ 

    ‘Fine then, come in.’ He stepped aside, allowing me entry and as I walked into Edward’s room my mouth almost hanged. Pictures of the monks and nuns were covering his walls and scattered papers were dotted across his room, from the floors to the tables. The only thing similar to my room was his bed that sat near the wall. Edward closed the door, which caused me to twist around towards him, my eyes followed the young man as he walked to a table which held a map of Greyfall. ‘Okay Ansel, I don’t have much time. Just listen, that’s all.’ 

    I nod. ‘Very well, say your piece.’ 

    ‘Right, this church is dangerous, very dangerous. You must do three things, always use your flick-lock at night, don’t eat the food and by the Emperor don’t complete the three oaths of Saint Alessia.’ He then plants his finger on the map. ‘A sickness runs through this quarter, it’s been here for years and I’m not sure if it can be stopped.’ 

    I listened and considered his warning, to me Edward sounds mad. Superstition has a place in our faith, but it seemed that the haggard young man was jumping at shadows. So I feigned concern. ‘Very well, I will take your words in Edward. But what about you?’ 

    The young man’s shoulders slackened slightly, was it in relief? I wasn’t sure. ‘Me? It’s too late, been marked. I’m done, I just want… I want to warn someone.’

    I gave Edward a smile. ‘Consider me warned then.’ 

    To my shock the young man returned it. ‘T-Thanks, now you have to leave. You already got too close.’ Edward walked back to his door and opened it. ‘Now hurry, they might be coming to check on me.’ 

    Following Edward’s instructions I leave, he then closes and locks his bedroom door. I soon begin to yawn, I stretch and make the decision to retire for the night. As I entered my bedroom next door keeping to Edward’s advice I used both locks. Considering what I have seen so far maybe there were a few oddballs among those of Greyfall, can never be too careful.

    Before heading to bed I sat at the desk and read more of the word. The next part after the first oath describes how one should be wary of how heretics can fester and gather in communities. The faithful should also guard their fellow sisters and brothers, those who walk the path of righteousness should also always beware of liars who seek to take people from the true path. 

     I found this section to be more in line with the standard Imperial Creed, heretics can be dangerous, they whisper lies to draw people away from the light. I imagine back in the past Alessia had to contend with false smiles, it must have been difficult. I soon yawned again and decided to get ready for bed. As I tucked into bed I was only able to gain about thirty minutes of rest.

     The creaking of the floorboards outside awakened me from my slumber, people were outside. I was about to think nothing of it as the creaking stopped, but whoever was outside began messing with my lock, they had a key. I started to panic, but as the key was removed I picked up the muffled voices behind my door. 

     ‘Wro-...on…’

     ‘Ri….w...mu...bless….’ 

     Then silence, the creaking starts again. My heart started to thunder, by Terra I was terrified. Again the creaking suddenly stops again, those outside start messing with Edward’s door and as I hear it open that was when the muffled screams started, the wall behind my bed started to shake violently, Edward’s voice seemed to match each reverberation. With time Edward grows silent, but the wall wouldn’t stop shaking, these terrible trembles and creaks carry on into the night, keeping me up until the early morning. 

 

Edited February 16, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 4

 

I was eating breakfast, I was too tired not to eat but with each bite vigour seemed to return to my body. I enjoyed the meal but there was an oddity with the long table, Edward wasn’t present and the seats of twelve nuns were empty. That odd fact chilled my blood even though energy was returning to my weary frame. I decided it would be a good idea to ask Xotha about what happened last night. 

    I eyed the nun, she was sitting near the head of the table, she was speaking with Father Joel. I thought it would be best to approach her after breakfast, I had no desire to talk about such a subject in a holy place. I cocked my head as I uttered that word to myself, holy the thought was both natural, clear and strange at the same time. I then shrugged and continued eating. 

   As I finished my breakfast I waited for Xotha to leave and then I rose, I soon found her outside talking to the gravediggers, they glared at me as I walked up to the head nun. When she notices my presence she smiles at the gravediggers and tells them she will talk to them later. The cemetery workers leave, giving me room to comfortably approach her. ‘Sister Xotha I have a concern.’ 

    The head nun then smiles at me, causing my skin to tingle. I wasn’t sure what to make of the sensation. ‘What is it Ansel?’ 

     I had to be careful with my questioning, Edward’s words were still fresh in my mind. ‘What happened to Edward?’

     Xotha sighs as I mention his name. ‘He has been ill for quite some time, he was taken by the militia early in the morning. He attacked twelve nuns with a shovel who were working in the main hall, they tried to stop him. They’re recovering in another church which has the facilities to take care of them.’ 

     The excuse was both flimsy and weak, but as she placed her hand on my shoulder I nodded in understanding. ‘I-I see.’

     ‘Good.’ she said softly. ‘Being a monk or nun is hard work and stressful, but Father Joel has his eyes on you Ansel. Your first oath was beautiful.’ I brim at the praise, for some reason it caused me to soar, especially since it came from her. The head nun then removed a piece of paper from her pocket, she handed it to me. ‘I also have an errand for you Ansel.’ 

    I opened the piece of paper, it was directions. ‘What do you want me to do Sister Xotha?’ 

    ‘We’ve run out of meat, can you please pick some up from Randy’s Butchers?’ 

    At the utterance of the task Edward completely vanishes from my mind, I wanted to please Sister Xotha and Father Joel. ‘I’ll do it.’ I said firmly. 

    Xotha tapped my shoulder, as her hand slid away I yearned for her touch again. ‘Thank you Ansel, we desperately need the meat. Please come back quickly.’

   ‘I shall Sister.’ I almost broke into a run as I left the church after running for a few blocks I ran out of breath and shifted to a brisk walk, I passed some of the dwellers of Greyfall and they still leer at me, especially the females. After almost thirty minutes of walking I found myself at Randy’s Butchers, the lettering on the sign was a bold red.

     I entered the store and as I stepped in a rancid smell smashed into my nose, I couldn’t identify it because there was no meat at the front, it was bare save for the butcher who was standing behind the counter. He was a bulbous man, bald and was wearing a white apron, he was glaring at me, just like the gravediggers. I assumed he was Randy.  

     I slowly approached the counter and cleared my throat. ‘Sister Xotha has asked me to pick up some meat for the Church of Saint Alessia.’

     Speaking of the church and Xotha caused the butcher to relax, he smiled displaying his yellow teeth. ‘Ah, they must have run out.’ Randy’s voice was raspy, he seemed to almost grunt in a bestial manner in between words. ‘Just wait a moment mate, I will go into the back.’

     Randy turns away and heads into the back as he said, leaving me alone with the terrible smell. The store was just as untidy as its inhabitants, the paint was scraping off, the floorboards creak and the odour seems to never go away, it even gets worse the longer one stands in it. Eventually Randy returned with a basket, he taps the top of it. ‘Hope all of you in the church like this one, it’s fresh.’

      I take the basket and force a smile. ‘Thank you, how much will it cost?’ 

     The butcher laughs. ‘Don’t worry about it mate, the church has covered it.’ 

     ‘I see, thanks again.’ 

     ‘Think nothing of it, give Sister Xotha my regards.’ I gave a small wave to the butcher and he returned it, I then left the store with the basket and the smell still lingers. It was coming from the basket. I thought to lift the lid to see what was causing the terrible odour but I held back, trust was important and according to the head nun, Father Joel was watching. To those here the meat was holy and I had no desire to disturb that. 

     The journey back was without issue and I found Xotha in the main hall, I walked up to her and offered the basket. She bows and thanks me for running the errand, which causes my cheeks to flash red. She takes the basket off my hands but she was far more reverent in its handling, which made my decision to abstain from peeking correct.

    Xotha nods ‘right, I will take this upstairs. Please can you get the church ready with the others? Nobles have booked our church for a special service. They have a family catacomb here.’ 

    ‘Okay, I’ll do that.’ 

    The head nun taps my shoulder again, she leaves me to my task. I worked with the others to get the church ready and after about an hour or so it started to fill up with people. Xotha also returned, I took a seat at the back with the other monks and nuns since the front benches were reserved for the black garbed nobles, many of them were crying.

     I imagined this was memorial service of some sort, since Greyfall was the only Graveyard Quarter on Arum-4, after about five minutes Father Joel left the side passage and took his place upon the palanquin. As he makes his presence known everyone quietens down, Father Joel smiled at all those present. ‘There have been many wars that have graced the Gaivor sector, many have died for the glorious Emperor. So I would like to talk about the struggles of our Patron saint in relation to this. For in the past Alessia was a simple Canoness, she saw the Great Blockade, a giant quarantine as an injustice, we had no control over the heretics who rose up and threw a plague upon us, so she marched and entered Greyfall by herself. She fought and bled, she struggled against the hordes but when she thought it would be the end the Emperor saw her plight.’ 

     The tears from the nobles have stopped, they were paying close attention to the words of Father Joel, as was I. ‘So the Emperor cast down one of his angels to offer their blood and flesh, to give her strength to fight evil, but Alessia was never selfish. She speared the Angel with her blade and shared its blood and flesh with her allies, this came to be known as the first supper. With the added blessing of the Emperor Alessia took flight and crushed the heretics with her companions, bringing peace to Greyfall. Your loved ones have done something similar, they gave their lives to ensure mankind's dominance and that should always be remembered.’ 

    The story moved me, she fought against the odds and won. Father Joel then closes the service Xotha rises and goes to the front of the church, she began talking to the nobles and soon enough she leads them out, likely to the catacombs. I guessed she was talking to the gravediggers since they were preparing for the memorial. I rise from my seat and stretch, I had no reason to stare, but instead my eyes lifted to the statue of the saint, I could now see why she was so important and I have accepted she was worthy of praise. 

 

Edited February 16, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 5

 

I was in the process of lighting a candle, as the flame caught the string I spotted a nun called Marian, she seemed to wobble on her feet as she dusted the benches. I was somewhat worried so I approached her, like Edward she seems haggard. ‘Marian are you okay?’

   The nun rubbed her eyes ‘S-Sorry, I’m just excited. I haven’t got much sleep.’ 

   ‘What is there to be excited about? Is something happening?’ 

   Marian’s eyes were beginning to divert away, in other words I’m not meant to know. ‘Sorry Ansel, you haven’t taken the third oath so I can’ tell you much. But I am going to be blessed.’ 

   The oaths were coming into play again, I nodded in understanding. ‘Very well, but please rest a bit. Can’t have you collapsing.’

     The nun smiles at me and bows. ‘Thank you for your concern, but you’re right. I will go and rest.’ As Marian walks away I got the feeling she only agreed to get away from me, after that conversation I never saw her again.

     As the day came to a close dinner was called, we all headed up stairs and took our seats, the food was set but today was different. Father Joel rose from his seat as always. ‘Today will be different, my brothers and sisters. Ansel if you please rise.’ Hearing my name from his lips was a shock to my system, I obeyed. ‘Ansel can you please lead the prayer today? After all, we have you to thank for bringing the meat.’ Father Joel was smiling as he sat back down, but that’s when I noticed Xotha wasn’t present.

     I tried to push that fact aside and did what was asked of me, I bought my hands together and closed my eyes. ‘Emperor, we thank you for letting us dine on the meat and blood of Angels. You allow us to enrich our souls so we can bring forth your mandate for the galaxy… N’yob…’

    Everyone echoes the closing words I open my eyes and sit back down, I was a mess of nerves, it was a sign of favour. The meal tasted far better as I tucked in. I swore to myself I would read from the word, I wanted to understand the second oath.

    When I completed my dinner, I almost hurried back to my bed chamber, I dove into the tome right away and continued where I left off. Again I found myself at the desk studying the holy word.

      The message continued about defending the flock, but this time it was far more aggressive. Alessia spoke about how they were abandoned by those outside, those who put up the quarantine chose weakness instead of the sword. As one of the faithful you must swear to always stand against those who seek to control and oppress them, to deceive the flock. This was the second oath. 

    As I read I found myself nodding to each word, with completion of that section of the book I closed the tome and began to get ready for bed, but I spotted something strange outside. Xotha was leading the nobles from the service out of the catacomb to the cars waiting outside the gate. The clothes garbing the nobles were both dusty and unkempt, it appeared that there was an accident but their gazes seemed… vacant. 

     When they vanished into the cars, I frowned I hoped they were alright.

 

Edited February 16, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 6

 

Again I awoke to a knock on my door, I shot up and hurried towards it. I unlocked the door to reveal Xotha who was smiling as always. ‘Ansel, Father Joel wishes to see you. Just get ready you don’t have to shower.’ 

    ‘Alright Sister Xotha, just give me a moment if you would please.’ 

     She nods and I close the door, I head to my chest of drawers and pick out the freshest robe I had available, I at least wanted to look somewhat prestable. Once I was fully dressed I left my room, Xotha was waiting as expected. We then headed to the last floor, as we approached the door she knocked and a muffled call came through the door after a moment. ‘Come in!’ 

     I entered the office with Xotha, the Father’s study was very...interesting. There were strange busts which covered the shelves, scattered tomes lining tables and strangely the book covers and statues appeared just as malignant the structures dotting Greyfall.  We approached his desk, we both bowed and shockingly we were both completed the action in synchronisation. Father Joel smiled at the both of us from his desk, I also noticed the first scripture was sitting upon it. 

    I quickly grew excited due to what was about to happen, the Father stood up, book in hand and offered the front to me. ‘Please place your hand on the cover Ansel, utter the second oath.’ 

   Without hesitation I did as my Father asked, I spoke my oath clearly so all present could hear. ‘I solemnly swear as a member of one of the faithful to destroy all those who seek to oppress the righteous, I will protect the flock and turn back all lies as is the duty as one of the faithful.’ 

     Father Joel slowly nods. ‘Well done Ansel, you may remove your hand.’ I drew my hand back at his command, it was tingling again, it was most likely the power of the Emperor, the power of the oath. ‘You may leave and return to work, I need to talk to Xotha. Keep up the good work my child.’ 

     In return to his words I bow again. ‘Thank you Father, I shall.’ I leave the room, allowing the Father and Sister Xotha to discuss their private matter. I head down stairs to the first floor but as I reach the bottom of the stairs I heard a long creak in the direction of the storage room.

      My eyes were drawn to the darkness leading down, the door was open. Slowly and surely I was drawn down the steps, it was like I was being pulled to the darkness. And as I passed through the door the stairs kept going down, I never found a storage room, instead I was now in a hallway replete with burning torches. 

     Cold fright was beginning to grip me, but that fear was the thing that pulled the dark memory of Edward from the recesses of my mind. The strangeness of the event and how readily I accepted Xotha’s weak excuses pounded my senses. So I went on, down the corridor until I came to a crossroad, which path should I take and where will it lead? I picked the left path. As I walked down the corridor the walls changed, they shifted into more cave-like form instead of smooth cobblestone. After walking for what seemed like an age I came upon an open space that was circular, but what was held here caused my stomach to turn.

     Chained to the walls were men and women, who were naked in form. None of them had the Greyfall look. As I scanned the dirty, sweating and emaciated faces, I chanced upon Edward. I rushed towards him, I knelt and tapped his face bringing him from his stunned stupor. The haggard young man blinks for a moment, his eyes then turn wide. ‘W-What are you d-doing here?’ His voice was raspy and weak. 

    ‘I could ask you the same thing!’ my tone was hushed, I was trying to figure out a way to free him but the manacles were both tight around his wrists and the chains were fastened tightly to the walls.

    ‘L-Leave me…’ 

    ‘No! By Terra what is the church doing here in the first place!’ 

    Edward was about to open his mouth, that was until I caught voices from the corridor. I cursed and hid behind one of the jutting rocks and waited, since there was only one way out. What entered caused me to furrow my brow, several people wearing thick red robes and long drawn hoods entered the chamber, those who were bound to the wall started to panic. Each of the new arrivals suddenly started to disrobe, revealing themselves to be grotesque mutants of epic proportions. 

    The mutants were both male and female, but sported three to four arms, those who had only two bore long black talons and each person present was bald, their skin was tinted purple which was mixed with their natural skin tone, those who held the most mutations were outright purple in skin colouration. Once they were naked they all joined hands and started to chant. ‘C'goka orr'eog bless fahff haiagl, c'ephani sing ph'nglui lloigehye Iiahe mgepnah lw'nafh ah birthed… N’yob...’ 

      I was mouthing the unintelligible words with them, I had no idea why I had such an ability but my very soul fragmented due to what happened next. As the chant finished the mutants let go of each other's hands, they approached the men and women, they sniffed or licked their faces, picking them out like animals. Then came the abominable union, the screams and moans were too much for my fragile mind, I fainted, darkness claimed me.

Edited February 16, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 7

 

I gasped, my body spasmed causing me to fall off my bed, I began to hyperventilate and the dark scenes from below the church repeated before my eyes again and again. I couldn’t get to grips with reality until a knock graced my door, it was always the same and I knew who it was. I became awash in conflict, who was involved in the dark acts underneath the church? Perhaps Xotha was also a victim? I rose to my feet and opened the door, it was indeed Xotha. 

    Seeing her round face helped me get to grips with my nerves, she smiled at me. ‘May I come in?’ She asked the question so softly, I couldn’t refuse. I opened the door allowing her in, as I closed the door she turns to me and reaches for my forehead, but I don’t feel her fingers upon it. I was wearing a bandage. ‘Ansel you had quite a nasty fall are you alright?’ 

     I flinched as she said fall, Xotha draws her hand away from my forehead. She shakes her head. ‘You must be careful, you are one of the best at the moment. I don’t want to see you hurt.’ 

     When those words were spoken visions of me falling down the stairs clash with the terrible scene below the church, I quickly became unsure on which one was real. ‘I-I d-don’t know…’ I stammered. 

     The head nun took my hand, she was gentle and delicate which helped calm me down. She led me out of my room and up to the dining hall. I didn’t resist, I didn’t stop her and I have no idea why. During the journey Xotha told me I needed to nurture myself to grow strong, all I did in return was slowly nod. As we reached the dining hall it was evidently dinner time. The head nun set me down on my seat and right away something strange happened. 

     All the monks and nuns around me were asking if I was alright. The food was in front of me and considering many of the meals are half eaten they must have said the prayers already. I couldn’t look at Father Joel, as head of this house he must know he was head of the church. Once I was seated comfortably, Xotha nodded and took her seat near the Father. 

     I slowly looked down to the food, the steak bearing the purple tint made my stomach lurch, I covered my mouth. Xotha quickly rose and walked over, she rubbed my back to calm me down. As I came to learn with this church something unexpected happened again, Xotha began feeding me, like a child, again I didn’t resist and it was this gentle action that caused the trauma to recede in the darkness. 

     The head nun had this strange power over me, I both enjoyed and hated it. As dinner concluded I told Xotha that I was well enough to do some evening activities, she smiled at my request and told me to go for it, so I went downstairs and spent time lighting some of the candles. Very few were present in the main hall since the church seemed to be far more peaceful in the evening which helped my harrowed mind. As I was in the lighting a set of candles near a confession booth I caught a group of nuns giggling at me and pointing. 

     A monk soon approached as he picked up on my confusion. ‘You don’t know why they are doing that?’

     ‘No.’ I answered. ‘I don’t really care.’

     ‘You should, you’ve been marked.’ 

     ‘Excuse me?’ 

     The monk offered me a wry grin as he walked away, the way he talked was as if I was some base animal. But from now on I was determined to be on guard, no one can be trusted save Sister Xotha.

Edited February 16, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

 

Chapter 8

 

I was sweeping the service hall, my eyes were cast downward to the ground. It has been a week since the accident and I’ve started to feel better. It was clear to me that I fell down the stairs and hit my head, that was the truth. So far though I haven’t read from the word of Saint Alessia, I have been afraid to touch the book. So far the only thing that has changed was the fact the nuns and monks are far more friendly for whatever reason.

     ‘Ansel?’ my eyes rose to meet Xotha’s, she smiled which caused me to smile in turn. ‘I have an errand for you can you do it?’

     ‘Y-Yes I can, what do you need?’ 

     ‘I want you to pick up some meat for me, can you do that?’ 

     ‘Of course!’

     I set the broom to one side, I was about to leave but Xotha stopped me. ‘Ansel a moment.’ I freeze and return my attention to her. ‘Have you been reading the word lately?’ 

     I rub my neck to her question, I shake my head. ‘No Sister Xotha.’ my answer causes the head nun to frown, she’s disappointed, seeing such an expression from her causes a wound to open in my heart. ‘I’m sorry, I will read the word when I get back.’ 

     Xotha’s bright smile quickly returned as I apologised ‘Right then, times wasting Ansel. Get going.’ 

     I nod and make my way out of the church, I notice as I leave the gravediggers appear more friendly, some even wave and for some reason I return it. Even as I walk the streets of Greyfall sometimes I catch people calling my name as if I was a long lost friend, at times those who pass me by would tap my shoulder in a jovial manner. All this was far too strange, I didn’t like it. 

     By chance I came across a store that sells mirrors, upon seeing my reflection on a cracked display piece I decided to examine myself, I am now far more pale and my hand quickly drifts to my hair, I pull it aside revealing a bald patch was developing. How I knew to check for something like that was lost upon me, I stopped trying to make sense of my unfettered  circumstances. I frowned and continued to Randy’s Butchers.

    When I entered the store, the same rancid smell gripped it but the butcher grinned upon seeing me. ‘Hey Ansel! Come for another order?’ 

     I don’t ever recall giving the butcher my name but I remained polite in the face of high absurdity. ‘Yes, Sister Xotha wants me to collect an order.’

     Randy grins, he heads into the back, just like before, leaving me with the rancid odour. Standing around I began to fidget, I ran my hands through my hair again and my scabbed fingers picked up further bald patches, the one I spotted in the mirror was just one of many. I was changing, warping because of Greyfall and I was afraid I was too late to stop it. In a way I’ve submitted, I no longer wanted to gaze further into the abyss, from that point I decided it would be best just to keep my head down and work.

     With those ill thoughts filling my mind Randy returns with the basket. ‘Here you go Ansel, give Lady Xotha my regards.’ 

     Lady, he didn’t call her Sister Xotha or the head nun, I reached out and grasped the basket while giving the butcher a curt nod. ‘I shall, be well Randy.’ With those words I left the store and returned to the church and as I arrived in the courtyard I found another strange and similar sight. A monk was leading a group of nobles out of the catacombs.

    Having a closer look at them I noticed the dirt on their clothes and all those present were also sweating profusely as if they have engaged in heavy exercise. I put the nobles aside and continued on my task, for what could I change about what I saw? As I told myself before I no longer wanted to gaze into the abyss.

     Entering the main hall I found Xotha lighting a candle, I approached the nun and as I got close she turned around. ‘Oh, you have it. Good work!’ 

     I brimmed at the praise, I barely even reacted as she took the basket off my hands and went to the side passage, I was far too entrapped by her words. That was until I remembered her second request, I needed to study the word. I almost rushed to the side passage, but I stopped as the creak threaded my ears again. My eyes were drawn to the stairs leading down into the darkness. 

    When the creaking stopped I swallowed a cold glob of saliva, reality came crashing down again. My mind swelled at the trauma and what I saw in those dark depths, that very same darkness became like a mother to me and I was the child, I began to slowly walk down the steps, I was drawn into the dark oblivion. Again I head into the abyss. 

Edited February 16, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 9

 

I followed the same path just like before, but I was fully aware I could encounter the mutants at any moment, I also wondered why I was committing this insanity again? What did I hope to gain? 

    With my inner turmoil hammering my frail mind I arrived at the same cross road, the thought to save Edward didn’t pass my mind, I couldn’t even remember his face for some reason. 

      Instead, I took the middle path and soon found myself in a rather open chamber that appeared to be a changing room. It most likely belonged to the mutants since I found red robes sitting on coat hooks.

     But there was something new here as well, there was a peculiar item sitting on the table, it was a long chain and at the end of it was a bronze trinket. The charm was shaped into a coiled wyrm, the bronze seemed to glow in the dim light and for some reason I reached out and grasped it, holding it close to my chest.

     My vision was then drawn to the coat racks and an idea soon spawned within my mind, I took one of the robes and placed it over my ecclesiarchy garments, that way if I encounter any of the mutants I can appear as one of them to throw off. Along with the charm I should also have the credentials to move deeper through this strange underground complex. But there was one issue, the rancid smell of Randy’s Butchers was clinging to the clothes. 

    I bared it for now and continued on, after walking for several minutes I picked up the sound of a chant, it was far more bestial and guttural compared to the one chanted by the mutants, it was full of rapt praise and the name they uttered filled me with unfettered revulsion. ‘Birth ahog, birth ahog, birth ahog m’arg Saint Alessia’s ah'n'ghayar.’ 

    Those words pounded my mind again and again, blood started to trickle down my nose. I almost started to chant myself, I quickly turned away and ran, I ran for my life. I tore the robes from my body and cast the foul charm to the ground. I should have never come here, it was a mistake and as I reached the stairs and heading back up to the light I saw someone I didn’t expect to see.

     Xotha was standing there, looking down at me. The sheer shock and terror seeing her with almost a vacant gaze made me lose my footing, I slipped and tumbled down the stairs and as I hit my head the void fell over my eyes, but that only lasted a moment. 

     For when my eyes opened again I was lying in my bed, Xotha was also sitting at my bedside with a tray trolley that was littered with bloody bandages. I trembled as her soft eyes met my own. ‘W-What happened?’ I asked.

     The head nun placed her hand on my head, causing the chain of trust to rebuild in almost a second, a warm sensation threaded my body. As her hand came away the cold wave distrust came back in a giant cascade, Xotha smiled as if she aware of that odd fact. ‘You fell on the stairs again, you’re quite clumsy and lucky as well. Ansel, you must do me a favour.’ 

     ‘F-Favour?’ 

     ‘Yes, a favour.’ She takes the word of Alessia from the tray trolley and hands it to me. ‘Read this, it will make you feel better. The words of one chosen by the Emperor will give you peace, after that get some rest.’

     I slowly nod, Xotha’s smile broadens slightly, she then gets up from her chair and leaves my room with the tray trolley. Now alone, I followed the head nun’s advice and began reading from where I left off. Saint Alessia soon describes the third and most important duty, the highest oath. It was bringing up the next generation, I furrowed my brow reading this strange passage.

      Alessia describes that the meat and blood of angels makes you more like them, their power was carried through the blood and those who are one with the Emperor will change in ways they won’t expect. The more pure and young they are the better one acclimates to the change. She then states that as one of the faithful your flesh will now be graced with a purple and most holy complexion and your blood will run black like those who come from the stars.

    Strength will also come and with that more changes, and the chief change will be stronger children so they can tear down the towers of the heretics that oppose them. This was the third oath of Saint Alessia. 

    I couldn’t believe what I was reading, it was utter madness. I threw the book onto the table for what could I do now? I can’t leave and all those who dwell in Greyfall believe the same scripture, this was the end, I just no idea what form it would take. 

 

Edited February 18, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Chapter 10

 

It was breakfast and everyone was taking their seats, ever since reading the last oath my appetite in the last few days has dropped, plummeted into the depths. But it was about to get worse, a monk sat next to me. They were bald and pale in complexion, they bore the Greyfall look. But I recognised the face, it was Edward. 

     I blinked in shock, Edward proceeded to smile at me. ‘Hey Ansel.’ he said in a jovial manner. 

     ‘W-What are you doing here?’ 

     ‘Huh? What do you mean?’

     I scanned the nun seats, the twelve that vanished with Edward were still not present and as the food was being set on the tables. I shook my head in confusion. ‘You were gone, c-chained, how are you here?’

     ‘Oh you’re talking about that night?’

      That was not exactly the case but that was a big concern of mine and I wanted an answer to that event. ‘Y-Yes, I would like to know.’

      Edward gave me a casual shrug ‘I was blessed and seed was taken, twelve in total for each finger on the holy arm which only bares three digits.’ 

      I had no idea what he was talking about, it made little sense to me. I glanced down to my meal, my stomach began to turn violently. Father Joel rose and then raises his glass to Edward, he welcomes him back and asks if he can lead the prayer which he accepts. This was another oddity, the changed man sits up and says the words, even the closing words of the prayer which he utters with a great amount of reverence.  

     With the prayer concluded everyone began eating, including Edward who attacks his meal like an animal. I in return slowly looked down to my purple-tinted sausages and my appetite still wouldn't surface, the only reason I could think of was the fact I comprehend some measure of the truth behind the church. I had no idea who these Angels were and I doubted that I wanted to eat their flesh and drink their blood. I started to play with the food, burning the time away until the conclusion of breakfast.

    No one gave me any trouble with my small rebellious act even though I haven’t eaten anything. Afterwards, I tried to drown myself in my work that was until dinner time arrived and breakfast repeats again. Father Joel asks Edwards to graciously lead the prayer which he does perfectly and again he tears apart his meal, while I can’t eat. It seemed our positions have reversed in some way which meant I was in danger.

     My mouth quickly dries as a wave of panic started to wash over my body, I sat still, waiting for the time to tick away until dinner finishes. It was then I noticed the monks and nuns are beginning to stare at me, I recall that visage, they were displaying the same anger they gave to Edward in the past before he was changed. Unlike him I was too terrified to feign that was I eating the meal. When the end of dinner was called, I got up and left the dining hall. Before I left I looked back to the portrait of Saint Alessia, I decided then and there that the halo wrapping itself around her head was a lie.

     With that truth in mind I retired to my room, I made sure to use the flick-lock as Edward’s past self instructed. But there was an odd curiosity in my room, something was out place, specifically the chest of drawers. One of them was open slightly, I went to investigate and found something I didn’t expect to see. The rancid smelling robe and the strange charm was sitting on top of my clothes, this was the confirmation. Truly, the church was involved. The question was who put the foul garments here?

     As I tried to unravel the plot there was a knock, but it didn’t fill me with hope but dread uncertainty, I took a deep breath and opened the door and as expected it was Xotha. ‘Ansel may I come in.’ 

     To my ears it sounded like a command, not a question. My brain was churning, pulsing at each word spoken by the head nun. I gave her a slight nod and allowed her entry into my room. As I closed the door I found that Xotha was walking around, she even looked down to the open drawer which caused my heart to beat rapidly in my chest. She then did something I did not expect.

    She removed her habit, displaying a bald head and pronounced forehead ridges, she threw the piece of clothing on my bed. She then tapped her lips as she walked over to me. ‘There is so much you don’t understand yet Ansel, but that will change in the coming days.’ 

     ‘W-What? I-I don’t…’ I wanted to remain ignorant, to bar my mind from the dark truth she was likely to drop upon me.

     ‘I’m so glad that you made the third oath, that you understand your place as one of the faithful.’

     ‘I h-haven’t made the oath to Father Joel.’ 

     ‘That doesn’t matter, what matters if you read the words and take them in. That is what is important...’ Xotha slowly reaches out and grasps my face, I didn’t stop her. She then gently caresses my cheek with her thumb, that was when her face started to change. Purple, pulsing veins started to thread it, they were almost glowing in my dimly lit room and her eyes slowly began shift to a stark solid yellow that brimmed with a bestial light. Seeing these changes tore me away from the spell she placed over me, I reached for her wrists trying to pull her hands away but her grip was firm and tight. Her strength was both alien and abominable, this harlot-creature wasn’t human, no one in Greyfall was human. 

    Her breath soon became rancid, bearing the same stink as Randy’s Butchers, Xotha then licked her lips revealing a rich purple tongue, the black saliva marred her red lipstick. Worst of all the longer I stared into her yellow eyes my resistance grew slack and weak, my mind was buckling under bestial will, drawing me into a pool of both fragility and dark desire. 

     She then kissed me, it was both deep and terrible, I lurched as her black saliva mixed with my own. She wouldn’t let go of me, but to be honest I wasn’t resisting as she secreted more of her foul fluid into my body. When she released me from the dread kiss, I crumpled to the floor, I coughed violently and as I looked up to her she was wiping her mouth slightly. Now I could see the black talons that crossed her fingers, how she kept all these changes hidden so far was still lost of me but what was far more terrible was her smile. The same one that destroys all my defences and it still does.

    Xotha walked over to my bed and retrieved her habit, she began speaking as she was placing it on her head again. ‘Be blessed that I took interest in you Ansel. You have some time yet, just make sure you don’t use the flick-lock. This was a place built by the hands of the saint, it’s a shame we can’t remove it. Please, make things easier on us, I don’t want you to end up like Edward...’ With her habit in place, she then left my room and closed the door. The words she left behind threw me into a frenzy of terror and insanity. 

      My mind tore itself apart trying to find some way to escape this place, but in the eyes of all those who dwell within the church and Greyfall I saw the same malignancy Xotha displayed. I soon resigned myself that I will be part of birthing a new generation of warriors for a war I did not understand. So, there was only one thing I could do, warn others. Leave a message.

Edited February 18, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

My End

 

How can I end this dreadful tale? What can be the message I give to you that will add gravity to what this...cul-true faith has put me through? Since that event with Xotha in my room I felt compelled to eat the foul-wonderful meals provided by this unholy-holy church. I feel terrified-blessed that I must-will play a part in this entire affair. 

    At this very moment my hair has been falling out at the reams, as I crease my brow I can feel small ridges developing. These strange mutations fill me with...with...with...revul-joy…

   I can’t say anymore, I have called for the same cab driver that delivered me to this foul place, I have to keep my wits until I can hand off this book to him, by the Emperor no matter what you do, don’t come this place, don’t come to Greyfall if you value your eternal soul. My Emperor, I’m sorry, my body and soul was now tainted beyond repair, forgive me…forgive your foolish servant...

Edited February 3, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Uploaded the whole thing at once, I've had trouble ending stories and I felt uploading a chapter or two at a time without properly planning the story out was harming it overall. I am open the feedback and I hoped you all enjoyed the small tale. 

[Brother Lunkhead]

Did a quick read and I like it I'll do a more detailed study and give you some feedback next week.

[Shinros]

Did a quick read and I like it I'll do a more detailed study and give you some feedback next week.

Thanks! I'm quite eager to hear your thoughts!

Edited February 9, 2020 by Shinros

[Brother Lunkhead]

Well done Shinros Your story is well paced and has a nice creepy Lovecraftian feel to it. 

 

There are just a few errors in grammar and some sentence structure can be improved. However, these problems are very few. I don't have time today, but I'll post each chapter with comments for improvement. On the whole though, it is a solid piece of work. 

[Shinros]

Well done Shinros Your story is well paced and has a nice creepy Lovecraftian feel to it. 

 

There are just a few errors in grammar and some sentence structure can be improved. However, these problems are very few. I don't have time today, but I'll post each chapter with comments for improvement. On the whole though, it is a solid piece of work. 

Thanks again for the detailed feedback! Can't wait for the further comments! On the grammar and sentence structure I don't know how I keep missing the mistakes. Reading through it again, I can see the errors clearly. Well, as they say practice makes perfect. 

Edited February 14, 2020 by Shinros

[Shinros]

Right, revised the story, corrected some of the errors and sentences I could spot. (I hope I got most of them!) The story should be a bit more easier to read now.