EVENTS:

The rest of the walk happens in silence. After several minutes, they reach the village, which is looking even emptier than usual. Pierre pushes the heavy church doors open, and the group walks in, leaving Rosa hidden in a nearby snow pile.

The church looks a lot emptier, though not outright deserted. Acolytes can be glimpsed in the shadows, burning incense or kneeling in prayer. The Priestess stands behind her pew as usual, though with a grave look instead of her usual welcoming one.

Pierre: "Priestess - I have brought the sinner, as you ordered. She claims to have fulfilled her task, albeit in a different way."

Priestess: "I see.

Eigla! Or- Finally Eileen once again, is it? You refuse to destroy the monster you spawned, and atone for your past sins. I expected better from you. You believe to have pacified the creature, but for how long? And - When it has a stable source of food and power, who's to say it won't just grow, and spread, and eventually overtake our holiest of shrines?

In this world, there are two kinds of souls. Those that abide by the Master's commandments and aid His cause, and those that dare oppose Him. I will ask you but once - Which of those are you?"



Meanwhile, the girls nod. You sit tight and wait, looking as the zombies plant stakes around their position and generally fortify against a possible charge. This, is stressful.

EVENTS:

The Priestess's expression softens, seemingly satisfied with Eigla's answer.

Priestess: "Is that so? Why, then - Would you like me to share the Master's gospel? Maybe then, you'll see the error of your ways."

EVENTS:

The priestess smiles.

Priestess: "Nor could I transfer such memories to you, for I have not experienced them firsthand. What follows is a collection of tales and apocrypha, pieced together through the ages. The Master does not give knowledge freely, but rewards those who seek it.

Ahem.

It began, in the final years of the Age of Man. The Master was still mortal then, but had from birth been gifted with preternatural knowledge, and understanding of our species' folly. He was born to a stagnant world, steeped in decadence and sin. He took it upon himself to cleanse the Earth, to gift us ascention to a form beyond the bonds of mortal humanity.

Through sheer force of will, he changed himself into a higher being, free from illness and death. Gathering those of like mind, he forged an army to topple the evil, corrupt rulers of the war-torn world. Though surrounded on all sides, and beset by uncountable enemies, he prevailed. He walked across the land, spreading his Gift freely, healing and mending, giving hope and meaning to those that needed it.

The Age of Kingdoms passed, and similarly the Age of Warlords, with the Master driving out the final, lingering traces of the old world's corruption. His brothers then retreated to the Isle Of The Gods, to work on the heirs of the new world, the peaceful, perfect demigods who will one day take our place.

Still, the Master saw there were still believers in need of His powers, so he deigned to stay among us. Such is the depth of his love and mercy.


The Master's commandments are simple: Aid the cause, and obey. The Master's intellect is boundless, and He has a plan for us all. Every person can dedicate their body and mind to His glory, and He will provide in return."

EVENTS:

The priestess nods, smiling radiantly.

Priestess: "One day, humanity will ascend - Though it will no longer be humanity at that point. They will inherit this world, and live forever in bliss. We are all but vessels of that wish, stepping stones toward a goal. I am doing my part, willingly."

EVENTS:

Klimt looks worriedly out the window. The besiegers have finished building a palisade, and are now constructing trebuchets and catapults. This is worrysome.



Meanwhile the priestess nods.

Priestess: "The Master is merciful. Even the wild, maneating beasts are given a chance to repent and join us, before extermination.

We gave the plant many chances, yet it took none. It is bent on hunting us down. So it must be cleansed.

The creature's origin lies within you. It is your duty to atone for past sins by bringing about its end. Consider it a test of faith, before you finally join our ranks as a beloved sister."

EVENTS:

Peggy: "I, only saw one, as well. It's made of stone, but... Eeeeeh. I don't feel good about this."

Outside, the invaders have finished building their catapults, and are now constructing a large wooden horse.


The Priestess shakes her head.

Priestess: "At some point, one must pay for their sins, and for denying the Embrace to so many faithful. Only the most compelling of arguments would make me even consider giving it another chance."

EVENTS:

Priestess: "...Hm.

True, the cold is a major problem, here. The factory already delivers food on a regular basis, so that would not be an issue...

It pains me to admit it, but you may have a point. The depth of your belief can be plainly seen. If you can convince it to not hunt our pilgrims anymore, I will allow it to stay.

Go now, and bring the news to the-"

Her speech is interrupted by the church's door opening, and Twoheads walking in, aided by a pair of acolytes.

Priestess: "Oh! It is you. Your arrival was foretold. You have been a brave servant of the Master, young Doll. Your reward is at hand, should you wish to claim it."

The Doll begins shakily walking forwards, towards the large pit. Her eyes are glazed over with tar, and her steps are uncertain. Myla seems to be smiling.