The Dirges of Apollyon
Behold our shame that we, the Sons of the Pale
Horseman, failed in our darkest hour to defend our
prince the undying and ever malevolent Vetra-Kali
Eats-the-Eyes. But I have seen it! I have seen the
road to repentenance! 666 prayers. Three per day
will break the hated Seal. With each prayer bathe
the seal in unholy water and intone the dirge.
At the stroke of midnight each day call forth the
Supplication to Darkness. Pray to the darkness so
that we shall be forgiven. Upon the first midnight
make the first sacrifice -- one of our own blood -- so
that Vetra-Kali will know we are repentant.
At the first light of each dawn call forth the
Cursing of the Light. Answer the spread of the
shining lord’s light with our unyielding defiance.
Upon the 111th Curse make the second sacrifice --
a true believer of Mitra -- so that the cursed god of
the invaders will know that we fear him not and
that his power to hold our master at bay is ending.
At dusk as darkness returns each day cry forth
the Call Across the Void. Recite the name of Vetra-
Kali so that he may hear us and return. With
the final Call offer the third sacrifice -- one of the
Victor’s own blood. By the same blood that caged
him so shall our master be freed.
Let ye with wisdom understand. Once the final
prayer is uttered upon the 222nd dusk, Vetra-Kali
will begin his long traverse across the great wheel.
At the stroke of midnight on that day he will
emerge into his Sanctum and the Seal shall shatter.
Blessed day! Be ready, my brothers. His eyes
have been stolen from him. Return them and the
Prince will honor ye with one task for each.
For the Eye of Vigilance ask only for his mercy
upon we mortals and plead that he do ye and yours
no harm. For his wroth will be great.
For the Eye of Hatred ask for his greatest gift --
the Tears of Achlys so that once more every corner
of the world may know his mercy.
For the Eye of Withering ask what ye will for
in his gratitude he must answer your charge.
And then behold, the Prince restored. All shall
know his blessings of pestilence and despair.
-R.Kappelbrenner