pti | The Pray-In

The Pray-In

In the days leading up to the Pray-In, Shinji somehow managed to acquire a fairly large stack of tickets and distributed them among any Phantom Thieves, with a not-so-gentle reminder that it would be in their best interest to check it out. For those who accept the responsibility, they'll find themselves at the church Thursday afternoon awaiting the service.

The crowd wasn’t huge, but it was enough to fill an entire section, though one may have a sneaky suspicion from the amount of charter buses in the parking lot that a fair amount of the faithful aren’t even local.

Instrumental hymns are piped through the speakers as the final set up was underway, primarily gathering the children’s choir - a couple children could be seen literally having to be dragged into place, a couple prodded to keep moving, as the Reverend spoke to men with scary shiny sunglasses in low tones, his wife sitting prim in position.

Once all the children were put into position, the music cuts - there’s a moment of feedback squealing as James Poplett tests his microphone, starting with a thanks for the faithful attendants, and a reminder of how Jesus loves a generous follower, and to tip what money they could spare for the Tend the Flock to save the little children, and that after the pray-in, if anyone wishes so, the good reverend will lay hands to channel the miracle of god to allow the power of positive energy to heal them.

For the thieves who found themselves listening, it end up being mostly a blur - a call for Christian Soldiers to pray away the evils of society, and to safeguard the little children from degenerates and immorality, and that while America may fall under the sway of a perverted agenda, that it is not the time to give up, that it is the time to open one’s heart, hands, and wallets to the Lord to fight back.

Thankfully the long sermons were broken up as the children were instructed to sing relevant hymns, instructed by Tamara Poplett. As the event starts to wrap up, Reverend Poplett announces that the government will be renewing their contract with the Child Protective Services at the end of the month. As he announces it, Tamara prodded some of the older children from the choir to come forward, placing a microphone close to their face - someone with sharp ears may hear an extremely soft ‘go on, just like the rehearsal’ before the children brought forward start to talk about how the charity saved them from the foster system.

Once finally - finally the event is over, people started to mill their way out, and with a line forming for Poplett’s personal touch, and other members of the congregation gathered to discuss how the Pray-In went, this might be a good time to start snooping around.

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The man smiles too easily, as he puts his hand on the forehead of a kneeling woman. "Woman of the Lord! Open your heart to the Holy Spirit, in Jesus name I heal you! Go and steel yourself against vice as a Soldier of Christ!"

He repeated these lines more or less with each supplicant, if one could stand to have the 'holy hand' on them, this might be a way to get a good look at this man.

Bartholomew Poplett, the young, charismatic, up-and-coming son of the elder Popletts is working the crowd, laughing, joking, taking the edge off the long wait, and answering questions as they come.

Edited 2018-03-15 04:15 (UTC)

Tamara brushes out a wrinkle in her skirt as she stands, adjusting her sunglasses. She flashes a smile as a reporter took pictures, her teeth almost luminescent as she quickly kneels and hugs a young girl, who almost jumped out of her skin at the touch before quickly ushering her off.

"Thank you for coming," She waves. "It's good to see so many reporters coming. I may be just a simple helpmate for my husband, but while he is busy attending to the flock, I will try to answer to the best of my abilities."

For those who paid attention to the speech of the children, May was one of them. Compared to the others, she actually went forward on her own when it was her turn. With a humble smile, she speaks of her life of losing her parents at birth and the cruelties of other family members before the charity took her in. She also speaks good wisdom and beliefs for a thirteen year old, but even past that soft smile and gaze, there is something else there...

Afterwards, she is talking with the crowd as a representative of the children. She holds a bible in her arms with colorful bookmarks sticking out, giving that it's indeed her own personal copy. From person to person, she greets with a smile and a nod of gratitude.

"Thank you for coming today. As one of the older children, it really means a lot to get support."

Asher is one of the children that needs to be coaxed to speak, looking nervous when separated from the rest of the choir. It takes some polite but pointed encouragement before he finally begins to speak, telling the audience about being taken in by the charity from an abusive family.

He speaks of a younger brother, although it is unclear how old he is, and that, before they could be separated, Poplett intervened.

"B-because of Father, Micah and I got to stay together. We can't thank him and the Flock enough."

While he still doesn't like this Pray-In, Cyan decided to accept the ticket from Shinji and went to the pray-in. Thankfully, his class ended before the scheduled event, so he has enough time to go to the event.

It took a while for him to listen to Poplett's preaches and to him, it was like any sermon that he listened. However, there was still an air of uneasiness around this event. But while he wasn't very close to the stage, he was shocked to hear the word "rehearsal" in a low voice. He didn't listen what Tamara said, but he felt it was somehow suspicious.

Just after the pray-in, his uneasiness didn't go away as Cyan is still wondering the comparisons between the daily mass that he attends every week and the pray-in today. It wasn't until the young girl approached him with a smile. When he sees her, he recognizes her as one of the children who made those speeches.

"U-Uh... Yeah, I heard your speech there and I'm cool with helping the charity out." Cyan said as he scratches his head, trying not to give off any suspicions to her. "So this 'Tend the Flock' charity thing rescues children like you from any kinds of abuse?"

It might be an obvious question, but it might be enough to start a conversation with one of the children.

"Yes, along with homelessness or other dangerous situations." May explains, rubbing her fingernails into the leather of the book. "If it wasn't for the charity, some of us might not be here right now."

She does a quick look around the stadium, always checking if watching eyes of the adults are on her or any of the younger children need some gentle guidance.

"I-I was really scared in my previous situation, so it was a blessing from the Lord. A new trial in my life... I was already religious before becoming part of the Flock. One day, I wish to have my own church and be a proper servant for the Lord and for my fellow siblings in this world."

She fears on getting a little too personal, but she taps her bible to change the subject.

"I'm really good on spreading messages from the Lord's word if you wish to have a listen."

Well dressed, her posture, teeth white as pearls...

Takamichi is quick to go over the details of the woman in his mind as he blends in with the reporters. He is even borrowing a notepad from another reporter who gave it to him after asking for it. Two hands better than one on getting information, right? Since he's a young adult, he certainly probably looks out an out-of-college man trying to get started out in the world.

"Miss Poplett, thank you for helping children in this country escape terrible situations and giving them a chance for a better life. When did you and your husband get started on this mission if I may ask?"

Well, that is certainly a dream for her to take. Despite the obstacles in her life, he can still see her as a strong and kind girl underneath her gentle eyes. But other than that, there seem to be no signs of out-of-place actions so far.

"Sure, I don't mind. I'm actually a Christian. Though the mass I had from the Philippines and in the US is somehow different to the Flock."

"The Philippines?! That's really far! I would love to visit a mass in another country one day. It sounds so pleasant."

Not only is the boy she's speaking of a Christian himself, but she feels kindness from him. May kneels down to take a seat on the ground to open up her Bible. Along with the bookmarks, there are thin sticky notes here and there that underline verses. There are small notes here and there on them along with the standard yellow sticky notes.

If Cyan pays attention, there is a small growl coming from her. Not from her lips, but it's definitely from her. She doesn't pay too much mind to it.

"The Bible. The Lord's word may seem a lot for a child to take in at once, but I try to do my best to give the others some encouragement in our lessons. As for me, I value the messages of love, empowerment and kindness among all us.

From Corinthians 16, line 13... Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."

"Mrs. Poplett," the woman corrected with a rehearsed smile. "Oh the mission..." She seem to take a moment. "The Lord came to us with the mission about fifteen or so years ago, after we had lost what would've been our daughter," Tamara sagged slightly despite her attempt to remain poised. "It seems that God told us not to wallow in our grief, and to turn our hearts to others less fortunate."

"Apologies on the slip of the foreign tongue and your unfortunate loss." Takamichi nods as he writes down her answer on the notepad. Also a small note on her reaction when giving such an answer.

"Have you adopted any children of your own as you started on this mission for God?"

After the ceremony, Locke goes looking for the little boy who spoke earlier.

"Hey there, you're pretty brave talking in front of everyone like that."

This guy gives off some seriously bad vibes. Mato saw the reactions of the children during the presentation, and she knows kids don't react like that if there isn't something seriously wrong. Talking to this guy close up is the last thing she wants to do, but nobody ever said being a Phantom Thief would be easy. As she stands in line waiting, she just keeps telling herself that she's already confronted one terrible adult this month, so what's another? And before she knows it, there she is standing in front of the reverend. There's a slight bit of hesitation before she steps forward.

He seemed surprised to see her, looking around - clearly searching for parents or some other guardian, but with the line forming, James seem to decide expediency trumps consideration.

"Child, It is good to seek the succor of the Lord's mercy so early!" The preacher calls out in the theatrical tone. "Come, and feel the Holy Spirit fill you!" Unlike the almost forcible grabbing of the forehead, he merely laid a few fingers on her forehead. "Lord Jesus! Hear me and bless this child! Fill this Christian Soldier with your love and Let no harm fall to her! Go and be blessed!"

While he called out, there was hooting and hollering from his most faithful and overenthusiastic clapping. Once finished, he leans in. "Go forth, but next time, you really should have your parents with you... or did you lose them in the crowd?"

"As much as I would love to, James and I consider fostering would serve the greater good." she explains, her expression hard to read with her sunglasses. "Perhaps it might be in our future, if the Lord wills it."

There's something in the way the boy is prodded and coaxed to speak that makes something ugly and angry flare up in Naomi's chest. Anger, she recognizes. She feels it often. So when he's done speaking, when it's over, she goes to find him. Because why not? She chokes the anger down, the vile words she wants to scream because, as angry as she is, she can't be impulsive. Instead, she decides she wants to be there for the kid.

"...Hey. How're you doing?"

Cyan grinned when he hears her compliment to him.

"There's actually a big cathedral in Pasay, but if you like a traditional church, I can let you visit a nearby chapel in my home' barangay."

As he listens to her words, he can understand the meaning behind the words that she recited. It's like her, being courageous and facing despair with strength in her heart.

"Yeah, you chose the right verse to fit your charity's mission. Even when we faced adversity in the road of life, we have to conquer it. But my Dad always say that we mustn't forget the past because we can even get stronger if we keep those memories and scars."

However, he slowly worries when he hears a growl from her. It's not much to raise an alarm about her feelings, but he has to keep an eye on her just in case.

"I'm Cyan Reyes. What's yours?" He asks as he offers his hand to her.

Mato visibly flinches as he holds out his hand, but doesn't shy away from the touch. She's going to wash her forehead very thoroughly tonight, though.

"Um... I came with some friends!"

Asher isn't hard to find, opting to stay close to the keyboard to the side of the altar. His fingers silently ghosting over the keys, he lifts his hand quickly when he hears someone clearly speaking to him, turning his head and putting on a very quick smile.

"You really think so?" He asks, looking genuinely shocked by Locke's praise; like he doesn't quite expect it. Turning toward him, that look gives way to something more relaxed. "I just wanna help other people, like what Father's done for me and my brother, and the other children here."

"You're doing great, I'm sure 'Father' is proud of you. What's he like? He seems pretty nice, huh?"

As the crowds begin to disperse and the children meander through the chapel, Asher looks much more relaxed. Even as Naomi draws near, he greets her with a small, bright smile—even if he does look a bit puzzled at her question.

"Sorry, I'm not used to talking in front of so many people," He admits, his shoulders raising as his gaze flickers between Naomi and the ground.

"I hope you enjoyed the service. Father has a way with words. I hope I can be like him someday."

"I am sure the Lord will give your family such blessings one day." Takamichi gives a soft smile, attempting to be casual and let the woman relax. He would like to see her expression better without those sunglasses, but he's going to have to work for it.

"If you don't mind personal questions, would you like to tell me a little about yourself? Any hobbies when taking a break from working with the charity?"

"Wow... Visiting all types of churches is a dream of mine."

May nods with that response, hesitant when that hand is offered to her. She looks at it and then back to her own hands, palms flat into the pages. She slowly turns one hand over to reveal long scars crossing each other in a mess of lines on her palm and fingers. It looks more like whipping marks rather than cuts from a blade.

"I understand your Father's wisdom. Those memories cannot be forgotten and those scars are permanent on my flesh. I still continue to walk through the hellfire with the Lord's light embraced over me like a cloak... He gave me a personal mission after all."

May reaches out to take Cyan's hand, giving a weary smile with a small shake.

"May. My name is May Alghisi. It's good to meet you, Cyan. Perhaps the Lord led us to meet each other."

Edited 2018-03-21 22:11 (UTC)

The body language is interesting. She notes it.

"...Is that what you want for your future? Mm... I just want to live comfortably. Have a few nice things here or there... Not have to rely on anyone."

It's not a lie, but she's going to play her cards close to her chest. See what she can get.

Cyan smiled at May at first as he shook hands with May. Yet the sight of her palms and fingers made him disturb at this sight of scars. Worst of all, it's more of a sign of torture than a suicidal action, recognizing the words of her past very true. Yet, this also makes him wonder what's under the Flock's mask despite this isn't related to his suspicions.

"I can say the same. To be honest, I never meet another Christian in America until now."

There is a subtle shift in his countenance, as his smile becomes a little more stitched together. It's one that doesn't quite reach his eyes, and as he looks to the side in thought, Asher hesitates before speaking carefully.

"Father loves all of us, and wants to make sure that we are all deserving of the Lord's praise."

Asher looks up at Naomi with a surprised look on his face. "Not being able to rely on Him when you need help sounds like it must be awfully lonely, don't you think?" Putting his hands on his chest, the boy closes his eyes, a placid smile on his face.

"The Lord can always hear you, you know. When you're happy, or when you're sad. Even when you're scared. If you pray hard enough, He can hear you."

She thinks on this a moment, looking up. Hm. How to respond.

"...It's not as lonely as it seems. Relying on someone and leaning on them when you need it are two different things. And besides... I think that God would prefer us to admit our shortcomings, but also do as much as we can on our own--not just as individuals, but as a community. If you just pray and that's it... Then nothing ever gets done. You wait for someone else to do it for you."

She doesn't believe in God. Not really. If God existed, then people like her wouldn't be born, alone and unwanted. But she won't say that.

"I'll still have friends, no matter what. But I won't have to depend on someone else to feed me or clothe me. I'll be able to pick my own meals. Things... Like that, would be ideal."

Locke notes the shift, but keeps a friendly and inquisitive tone.

"I see. What all goes into that anyway? How does someone show they deserve the 'Lord's praise'? Lots of praying?"

"Hehe... I'm glad we could meet."

May pats the ground next to her, giving room for Cyan to take a seat and to look at her bible with her.

"Do you have time? Talking the Lord's word with a new face is quite refreshing."

He would say no to her request due to his plans of going home afterward. However, he can't miss this chance to learn more about her and the charity itself.

"Yeah, I still got time. Though I might go home soon or my folks might be worried," he said as he sat down next to May.

Asher continues to smile through her explanation, but it becomes clear that he isn't very comfortable with her words. His gaze flickers to the side, as if he's looking for someone or something, before he takes a small step back.

"I see," He says politely, once again briefly glancing off to the side. It's hard to say if he actually heard what she had to say, or if his attention was drawn elsewhere.

"There's a lot more than that," Asher answers, trying his best to be helpful. "We do a lot of praying, but we do everything that we can to be good soldiers of God. It's because He loves us that we are here today, so we need to do everything we can to show we are deserving of that."

She's taking note. He's watching around, as if spooked, isn't he? Like this line of talking isn't allowed.

"...Sorry."

It's not really a sincere apology, but she's gotten good at lying about those. If anything, the idea he's not allowed to think of independence... Makes her even angrier.

Elias was not interested at all in this. Actually, he happened by a ticket on accident, though it would be good to see where all the commotion was coming from. Plus, he was fairly certain he heard some chatter about this online, which was probably a good lead for the time being. Either way, he realized in a short amount of time how...problematic this was. He notices someone laughing and joking and decided to see what information he could glean from the other.

"Seems like a decent crowd, but I am not entirely sold on this little...gathering. Why does that man feel such malcontent in our society? Moreso, how is it that he has an affinity for miracles?"

Practical questions, Elias felt, were the way to have people answer honestly.

An odd expression briefly passes over Bartholomew's face, but it quickly morphs into a broad smile.

"Surely you have seen it? The moral decay striking at the fiber of our country? We've lost touch with the old ways and left naught but decay! Father simply seeks to right this ship, lest we sink and drown in the floodwaters."

His cadence is measured, there is definitely the touch of a preacher's speech in it. And all the while his smile doesn't crack for an instant, it is warm but his eyes are sharp, piercing, sizing Elias up.

The moral decay striking at the fiber of our country? Though Elias would be inclined to agree; people were more and more apt to choose the wrong thing in his opinion. His own experience was evidence enough of that. However, this...was not necessarily something he felt was the right way to go about it. Elias' expression did not change as he tilted his head slightly.

"Lost touch with the old ways? Please, enlighten me to what the old ways are."

There were some good things about old ways, but Elias thought it was a little heavy handed to say that there was nothing but decay....

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The Pray-In

The Laying of the Hands - James Poplett

Working the Crowd - Bartholomew Poplett

Tamara Poplett - Reporter Chatter

May Alghisi

Asher Hayes

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