In a dark chamber, one of many in the labyrinth of catacombs below the hallowed halls of the Vatican, a clandestine assembly of cloaked figures gathers in secrecy. The air is thick with the smell of soil, mildew, and ancient stone. The flickering light of countless candles casts eerie shadows against the rough-hewn walls. As the group commences their ritual, the chamber reverberates with the primal beat of drums, echoing through the underground room.
The rhythmic chanting rises and falls, blending with the hypnotic undulations of their dance-like movements. Each gesture is imbued with a fervent devotion, an offering to their unseen master.
Amid the intensity, a figure steps forward, his voice cutting through the cacophony like a knife. His words command attention, drawing all eyes towards him. His face remains hidden beneath the folds of his hood, yet his presence exudes authority. “This my brothers” he proclaims, his voice dripping with conviction “Marks the dawn of our reign on this miserable planet.” He said interrupting the ritual. “With the spirits held in the boxes which we will have in our possession soon, we will have the power to destroy any who would stand against our vision.”
“My Lord? What is the situation with the boxes? Have you received a new progress report from our brethren in the States?”
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“Yes! I have been informed that they have tracked the boxes to an area outside of Salem Massachusetts, they will be intercepting the courier tomorrow night.” pausing, he stares at the cloaked and masked figures in front of him. “I have been given a vision, I shall be known, from this time forth as The Blood Pope and you my Cardinals of Chaos will be by my side, destroying this era of weak and subdued people, and bringing about a new humanity taking our lead from the Dark Lord himself.” Pausing to collect his next words.
“However, the next few weeks will be a very demanding time for all of us. We will be tested on our resolve, and some of us will fall, but know that you will be exalted, and revered as a martyr of the cause” As applause erupts around them he holds his hand up ushering them to silence.
“Our contact in Las Vegas told me that she will have the boxes under her control within the next 24 hours, so we need to be ready to initiate our culling of the herd, we will start with Archbishop LaRossa. He is suspicious of our actions as of late, his meddling questions are a threat to our plans. The False Pope Francis VI will remain to the end for our victory sacrifice. The Camerlengo has assured me that he will keep the vial pontiff busy until it is time. As for now we shall continue our rituals and rest in knowing we have won the battle and victory is imminent.” With that said they all began the dancing again and the ritual continued well into the next morning.
