Faith and Reasoning

The sun stood mid-high above the horizon, it's bright and warming rays shining in through the stained glass windows, depicting the many accomplishments of the deity to whom this building was dedicated, spreading a colorful and joyous gleam across the gray walls. Around ten volunteer workers attended the Cathedral, walking around in pristine violet robes as they did their best efforts to make the place appear spotless. Most of the workers had the average tasks of cleaning the windows, swabbing the marble floor, and tending to the benches. Three very dedicated volunteers held a far greater task in their hands, however. They were to attend the tablets and pillars of the Cathedral as they were made from the most important of materials. The tablets were encrusted with a thin layer of gold, used for the carved texts, and the foundational pillars which held the entirety of the building stood thick and proud, with a core of midnight black marble and an outer layer of thin bricks of Lapis Lazuli and some silver, stacked beside each other in a pattern of Lapiz, silver, lapiz, and so forth, trailing upwards until they met the roof. Chandeliers hung from the roofs and along the walls stood great statues of men and women whom had played big parts in elevating their gods to the patron status they once held in Subaine. At the front of the church stood an altar dedicated to the Mother Moon and Father Terra, each of which had a statue made in their honor at either side beside the Altar. It was hectic work to get it all in order, and yet there were no moans of complaint. All of the workers hymned in honor of their gods and carefully tended to the magnificent building, a hymn which harmonized in a wonderful union of voices. At the altar kneeled a woman in a pristine silver and blue dress, a veil covering her face from view and a hood to shroud her hair and head, silently praying for a successful day for her visitors and her.
Teresa stood outside the large building, doing her best to keep track of all of the students who had accompanied her on the field trip. Despite the only students attending being those of the advanced placement classes at Mimisbrunnr Academy, there were at least one hundred and fifty present as the group consisted of those of each grade and thus the children before her ranged from nine years old to fifteen all crowded the sidewalk. "Everyone quiet! You can continue your conversations during the lunch period but for now I need your attention." The blonde woman spoke with authority, pushing away a strand of her hair from her sweating brow. The summer heat bearing down even though it wasn't quite noon yet but all knew the Unianim was cruel and unforgiving made all the more so by the giant population of the city. She cleared her throat when she had everyone's attention, her eyes moving to make sure the other teachers had gotten into their position around the students to prevent any from wandering off or being left behind. "As you may know our visit here today is our second trip in the several planned for the year as part of our Culture and Unity program that seeks to teach all of you bright young minds more about the nations that make up our wonderful world and not just that of Ashvattha or even the Toranku. I expect all of you to treat those who would allow us here with the utmost respect as you all know that coming on these trips is a privilege that can easily be taken away and I highly doubt any of you would want to be put into a lower level class for the day while we are out here learning from experience. Now, if you would all wait here I will confirm our presence with our the person who will be giving us our tour today and then we can get off the streets."
Teresa turned from the students who immediately began talking amongst themselves the moment she turned her back and headed toward the entrance to the Cathedral. She entered the building and felt somewhat relieved to be out of the searing heat as she disliked such climate and much preferred the much cooler temperatures of her homeland. She entered the nave of the cathedral, seeing the back of a woman who vaguely resembled the description of the woman she had been told would be showing them around today. She stood at the back still near the entrance as to not interrupt whatever it was the woman was doing.
The woman's focus shifted ever so suddenly, her head jerking back as she felt a new presence in the halls. Gracefully, she rose up from her previous position and began to make her way down the walkway to meet with the person at the entrance. As she walked down the aisle, she dismissed the workers with a wordless handwave, all of whom immediately took off to the private chambers. Within short, the woman stood before Teresa, the blue dress hugging her figure as she courtesied. She removed her hood and veil, revealing the woman beneath, her lightly tanned skin with few to no flaws and her larger than life hair coming into view. "Welcome, traveler, you humble our abode with thy presence. I am Isis Madu, former templar, now Paladin and Priest of this cathedral of ours." She spoke, and as she rose up once more, she looked around, similarly to a confused animal. "I fear there may be a misunderstanding. I prepared for the grandest visitation I've had in a long time, yet you stand here alone." She asked with sincere concern. "Did the others not favor coming?"
Teresa shook her head, "No, no. I just wanted to come in first to make sure you were ready for us. I'm sure the last thing you need is a bunch of loud children interrupting your service. The students are waiting outside." Teresa said, her clipboard held tightly against her body as she spoke, unsure what to make of the woman in front of her. The blonde woman was not one to think highly of religious practices or of those with strong faith but she was not one to speak out against others so long as she didn't believe them to be harm to anyone but even so she preferred to avoid them, surrounding herself with those she considered of an intellectual mindset. "I'm Dr.Stein, but you can call me Teresa if you would like and I am the headmaster of Mimisbrunnr Academy of Magic. The children are right this way if you would like to greet them before our tour?" She offered her hand to the priest expecting to shake hands with the woman.
Isis nodded in affirmation. "I understand, that was most thoughtful of you. I hope that I can deliver a memorable day for thee today. Shall we get moving then?" Isis spoke as she began to make her way outside with Teresa beside her. The two of them exited the church and temporarily came out into the balming summer heat. She smiled over the crowd before she began to speak, taking notice of more than one young girl that admired her dress. "Welcome everyone to the home of the Mother and Father. Just like your teachers, I will teach you about the spiritual significance of four items and construction pieces within, after which you will be allowed, with your teachers' permission, to discover and brave the Cathedral on your own. I advise caution, and if you have a question either during the tour or when you discover it for yourself, feel free to ask me a question regarding it. Now then, shall we get a move and get out of this heat?" She spoke as she led the company of teachers and students into the massive church. The first stop was the pillars which held the place up, to which she stood beside it and addressed the gathering. "Might seem like an odd place to start, but our first attraction are these monumental constructions. I am sure that you're taking note of their unique materials." She spoke with a wave of her arm to gesture towards it. "Pop quiz! Before you came here today, I sent out little pamphlets regarding the basics of our faith and the importance of certain items and materials. Now, who can tell me what the significance of these pillars are? And don't worry about getting it wrong, this won't be graded nor affect your grades." She said with a smile.
Most of the students remained silent, few of them would have given such a pamphlet a second look had it been found in their mail and even fewer would have likely received it given most still lived with the parents and thus the mail would be checked by them rather than the students themselves. However, that didn't keep a small, lavender-haired boy from raising his hand despite the protest of the those around him who would rather stay silent and have the answer told to them rather than prolong the experience by answering and getting it wrong. Even so, the young boy that Teresa recognized as Amir Tasya raised his hand high into the air with an enthusiasm she was somewhat happy to see in such a young person. Once the young boy was picked form the two of three hands that went up he lowered the outstretched arm and spoke up.
"I admit from the beginning that I don't know if my answer is right or not but I know that in many religions pillars are used to symbolize the founding principles of said religion such as the five pillars found in Liorism, the primary religion in Ishtar." The young boy spoke with confidence despite having admitted he didn't know a single thing about the religion Isis had devoted herself to.
Isis smiled approvingly. "You are partially right, young one. They do indeed represent the foundation of our faith, but there is also more to it. The bricks of Lapiz and Silver represent the Mother Moon and Father Terra, both of which vastly different but still complement each other with their differences. That is what the church was founded upon. To see the best in one another, regardless of nationality and race, regardless of them being faithful or nonbelievers, and equally important, it's to remind us of who we are and where we all go." Isis turned her attention towards Teresa. "Keep this student in mind, Ms. I have something in mind towards the end for him." She spoke, and as she said this, she turned her attention back to the students, a subtle, mischevious gleam in her eyes. "It seems that I failed to mention something. While this won't affect your grades, and as such, there is no shame in taking a backseat, but for those who walk the extra mile..." She spoke as she reached into one of the pouches which hung at her side, and pulled out an item which rattled like metal within. In her hand she now held a big and thick coin of pure silver. "There might be something in it for you," she spoke as she ventured on. She felt a bit bad about what could essentially be considered bribing, but she would consider herself an even greater failure as a priest if she couldn't keep the attention of the youth.
Further into the church, the group halted beside a basket of silver coins and a pedestal of a chest and book of notes. "This is... Well, honestly just a chest with minimal meaning. It is said that the greatest and most important meanings can be found within ourselves, most importantly, cheesy as it is, in our hearts. I want you to perform a little task for me now. I want you to take a single coin out of the basket and do one of two things with it: You can either keep it for yourself for future purposes, or you can dedicate the coin and a message to someone that lies close to your heart and offer them a gift by putting them in the chest. Do what feels best and right for you. Teachers, I would like to ask your help with this one, to ensure that only one coin is taken per student."
Teresa nodded, having one of the other teachers join her beside the basket and she watched each student take one. Just as she expected there was a noticeable divide right down the middle between those who took the coin and those who did not. Though, it would be impossible for her to tell why each person chose what to do with it but she imagined many who did place the coin into the chest did so for moral reasons. After all, it was what the coins were used for to begin with and with Hylion's money being credit based there would be little benefit in keeping the coin aside from having an interesting souvenir. When all the children had made their choice, they returned to their standing position in front of Isis and herself. Teresa herself saw no meaning in the act of doing either but kept silent, wondering if Isis would give more meaning to the activity in whatever she had to say next.
Isis maintained her smile. "How many kept or left the coin?" At her question, about half of the students raised their hands in answer. "I then assume that half the others donated the coin? Did a note maybe accompany it?" The remaining students raised their hand as well. "What if I now told you all that you, the ones who kept the coin for themselves, have the potential to be a lot more charitable than the ones who gave away the coin outright, and that you are even more virtuous than the half that donated their coin? Can anyone guess why?"
A short student got on her tiptoes to raise her hand above the crowd and while so too did Amir his hand wasn't quite fast enough this time. Once Isis pointed to the young girl the crowd parted and Teresa noticed the girl as Olivia Inari, the academy's student council president. Once she was given the stage she stepped forward and cleared her throat. Teresa knew that while the girl looked innocent she was one of the brightest even among the brightest at the academy and was likely a future member of the Toranku council.
"I think it is because those who kept the coin have the option to give it to someone or use it in a way that physically benefits someone else while those who placed the coin into the chest have lost that ability in the hopes that their action will benefit a loved one through some kind of moral or divine karma. However, I also believe that it depends greatly on the intention behind the action rather than the action itself." She spoke with grace, giving a slight bow when she finished speaking and then allowing the crowd to once again consume her.
"A good answer, my young lady. And in many ways, you are correct. By keeping it, you who did have the chance to do so much more with it. Much can come from little. But that is less relevant before the act which proved the more virtuous. You may be wondering how keeping the coin rather than giving it can be more so? Simple." Isis went up to the chest and unlocked it, and as she did, she picked up a coin together with the tied together letter. "This is why." She said as she waved the letter. "Those of you who left the coin in an attempt to be moral without feeling it or simply did it for the sake of not looking greedy are of little virtue and gained nothing. Those of you who left a note together with your coin have received little virtue. For you see, by tying this note to the coin, you draw attention to yourself, regardless of whether you realize it or not. Charity should be nameless, anonymous. Preferably, the act of charity should be one of mystery, one which can't be traced back to you in any way. Those who give something in exchange for nothing shall receive the greatest gift of all. You who kept it can still do charitable things with it, truly charitable things, especially with this knowledge. Even you of little faith can be of much virtue, and that is of even more value."
Teresa crossed her arms, only half agreeing with the statements of the woman, feeling as though those who placed the coin within the chest with hopes of giving well wishes to a loved one shouldn't feel as though there is less virtue in their actions. Afterall, it was still a selfless deed in the end regardless of whether or not someone knew they had done it and it, of course, leaves the question of whether or not someone who throws in a coin with a note when no one is there to see it is just as virtuous as one who keeps the coin simply because it keeps the air of mystery which she said was so important. It is the same type of question as the 'if a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?' question, unprovable and ultimately unanswerable despite the fact that most kindergarteners could make a logical and readily accepted guess. She shrugged her shoulders, knowing she was in for some preaching the moment she learned they would be visiting a church. "It is human nature to want to be noticed for your actions. It gives people a sense of accomplishment no matter how small and sometimes a little recognition can go a long way in seeing to it that more good is done. After all, even if a good thing is done with less than good intentions does that inherently make the action a bad one? If a man makes a cure to a horrible deadly disease simply because he wants to be known as the man who cured it make the fact that he cured it an evil deed?" She spoke out loud without thinking.
Isis turned a surprised gaze towards Teresa, one which softened into her iconic smile once more. "Heed this woman, Children. She is a skeptic and a questioner. The world is ever in need of those. It's what keeps fanaticism at bay. Indeed it is in our nature, revered teacher. Just as it is in the human nature to desire malice and harm upon those who have wronged you. It is in human nature to sometime let their greed take hold and take something which is not yours to take. It is natural to hate. Nature isn't always good, Ms. Our faith teaches us to move away from such nature and transcend them. As for your question, no, to cure a disease can never be a foul deed. But what of the man behind the deed? Which is the morally sound reason to cure said disease? Fame or the wish to save lives? If his sole desire to create said cure was to become famous and written about, congratulations, he has now saved countless of lives. Not that it was what mattered to him. The deed was pure. The reasons and cause for it is not." Isis said without hesitation nor doubt. She had anticipated skeptics and those who would question her faith and morals, and if it was anyone to do so, might as well be the educated adult.
"I believe it is a desire to bask in our accomplishments that causes advancement. The medical field is a great example of this, countries in which medical accomplishments are rewarded with large sums of money and fame statistically create and develop far more cures and medicines than those who do not and these countries are far better off for it. I agree that one should be humble and that people should act with the good of others in their heart but it doesn't change the fact that people should be rewarded for their works. It is simply how a society that runs on goods and services functions. I do this which means I get this and working harder means I get more of that and while some people are genuinely passionate about their fields many are not and need that motivation. So if the person has the knowledge and resources but is unwilling to do something because the reward is not worth the effort then far more bad might come from that than if one is simply rewarded for their actions. Everyone has something to gain in that situation." She spoke but then quickly realized where she was and blushed slightly with embarrassment, "Forgive me, I didn't mean to take up your time. Like the students, I am a guest here and I do not mean to be rude." She bowed in hopes her host would accept her apology.
Isis chuckled. "Did you not hear me earlier? The world needs people like you Ms. Stein, so there is no need to apologize, as appreciated as it is. You are giving us much to think about." She spoke soothingly. "Now, students, shall we get a move on?" She said as they continued down the aisle. "Since we took up a bit of time with that talk, and I really want you to just take a moment to take in your surroundings and just socialize, I will shorten our tour a bit and move along to the final point of interest." She spoke as they approached the altar at the end. The altar was made of common rock, carved so that the surface appeared like an ocean, which led further down towards a towering sculpture of a mountain. Isis turned around to face the students and teachers once more. "Beside us stands the patron gods of my homeland, Subaine. To my right stands Terra, the God of the earth and mountains. To my left stands Mother Moon, goddess of the Water and the phases of the moon. But beyond that, they also hold an important role for all the kingdoms of Hetep. Can anyone guess their role for the continent?`"
Quickly, a hand shot up and seemed to bounce up and down to get the attention of the priestess, the bouncing girl who seemd to shout "Oh, me! me!" was instantly recognized by Teresa as Sachi Vroman, one of the few students that the young headmaster could not figure out why she was in advanced placement. While Teresa knew the girl was smart she seemed to carry with her a childish personality that she knew gravely clashed with that of the girl's two other sisters but even so her grades spoke for themselves and as such she was here. Teresa watched as Isis picked the young girl and hoped that Sachi actually knew the answer rather than simply being unable to be quiet any longer.
The girl held a finger up to her chin as if in deep thought, as though she hadn't actually thought about her answer until it was time for her to speak it out loud. "Well, I'm not really sure if I have my facts straight or not but if I remember right Hetep is a Theocracy which would mean that they play a pretty big role in the government so a lot of the laws and other cultural stuff probably comes from them, right?" The girl spoke with glee in her voice despite sounding rather unconfident in what was basically answering a question with a question.
"You are correct about the cultural influence which they possess, but that is not why they are the most famed of all the gods of Hetep. They are both gods of what you may call Limbo." She spoke, allowing the girl to reassume her position in the group. "In our faith, it is believed that in order to reach paradise, you must pass the two realms of tribulation and serenity before you can achieve peace. First comes Mother Moon, whose ocean you must cross to reach the Mountain of Tribulation, the realm of Father Terra. During your journey through the ocean, you will experience the bliss of the life you had, allowing you to relive your most precious moments. This is a time of self-reflection, to see what matter and role you played during your time in the world. After that, comes the mountain, one which you must climb. However, the Father is less forgiving and merciful than the mother, and will not allow you to pass with ease. For your final task before you can find bliss once more is to climb the mountain while carrying a basket weaved from your sins and containing the spirits of all the men and women whom you have wronged in your lifetime. Depending on your life, this can either be one of the most trivial tasks you've ever known, or the most straining experience known to man. But more than that, they have also become vastly favored across the nations as they have pledged to the people that one day, the kings of ancient times will rise from their tombs in new bodies, and all their deceased subordinates will rise with them. While a forsaken belief by many at this point, they are still symbols of compassion and renewed life." Isis spoke. "But now, enough of my rambling. With this, our session is now over. Feel free to look through the cathedral at your leisure, you may even want to discover the upper and lower levels, and if you have questions, feel free to ask. I simply implore you to be careful in here. Now, off you go." She spoke with cheer.
Teresa watched as the students began to scatter, teachers following them to find different points in the cathedral to keep the closest eye on the different groups. Teresa remained near the altar, arms crossed over her chest as she looked at the large stone creation. She could see the work of artistry that had gone into making such a thing but couldn't help but feel it gave off a gaudy feeling to it. She shrugged her shoulders before turning to Isis who still stood where she had been a moment ago. She approached the woman, "While I know you said it was unneeded I would like to once again apologize for my outburst, this trip is neither the time nor place to attempt to debate against you. I gave you the stage and then tried to shoot you off of it and it is for that reason that I am both sorry for and very ashamed of my actions." She spoke with sincerity and professionalism.
Isis gave a soft and warm smile to the teacher. "It is most appreciated, Teresa. I think I understand though why you felt the need to do so. You believed that I was leading them astray, that there was no need for my point of view to be integrated into them. You wouldn't be the first, but you are the first to apologize for it." Isis said as she turned her head to the altar, which she had seen Teresa look at a bit disapprovingly. "The altar isn't to your liking? I can't blame you, it's not the prettiest of constructions, I will admit." Isis said with a hint of humor.
"Yes, I became a teacher because I believed the education of future generations is something the world should focus on greatly and that those who teach them should be ones who understand and are passionate about how important such a task truly is. Children are so impressionable, their minds so easily molded by those around them. My job is to lead them down a path that ensures that they become fully functioning members of society and that they are happy with what role they find themselves in. However, I understand that I might not have all the answers to the questions they ask as even I am still a student of the world too and so I must let them choose their own paths no matter what that path might be. Like they say, I could give them a fish, guide them down the path I think is best for them and they will be set but that isn't my job. As a teacher, I am simply meant to teach them how to walk down a path and then like letting go of a bike the first time a child rides it without training wheels I am to trust I have prepared them to take the next steps on their own and walk their path proudly. I am to teach them to fish, not give them a fish as they say." Teresa spoke with passion in her voice despite her normally stoic appearance, a small smile on her face as she watched the children walk around the room. 
Teresa shook herself from her thoughts, turning her attention back to Isis. "Yes, the statue. It just seems a bit gaudy to me but I'm far from an art teacher and so I don't reserve the right to judge the creations of others," She said, reaching a hand up to adjust her glasses before letting it push a strand of hair behind her ear and out of her face. "So, if I may be so bold as to ask, what is it that got you into this religion?" Her words awkward, genuniely not sure of exactly how people made sense of religion as she herself was never exposed to such ideas until her teenager years at which point she had become what she would consider 'too old to fall for such things'.
Isis chuckled lightly. "If what you really want to know is how we as a whole choose to dedicate ourselves to gods, beings who are never present and often appear indifferent to our plights, then I must disappoint as I can't speak for all. As for me personally, I guess you wouldn't call me a typical case. I was a teen by the point I became devoted to the gods, and I will say that I had been quite the troublemaker in my youth. I blasphemed, I was called a heathen, and of course, they called me a doomed child. I didn't care though. If anything it simply drew me away. Then something happened. Something funny. I went to see this play with my father, a play about a warrior and his journey to become a Temple Knight. I scoffed as even then I saw through his agenda. But once the play started I was captivated. t was simply a divine play, and I admired the knight with all my heart. He made the faith and the Templar role appear... Well, badass I suppose. It seemed so astoundingly cool to be one. Stand outnumbered 40:1 and still not give in, to dedicate yourself to a cause so wholeheartedly, and to find peace at the face of death and not despair." Isis began to speak with increasing intensity and fervor until she caught herself in it. With a cough, she returned to a more calm state. "So I suppose you could say that my training as a templar, my studies of the holy writs, and my dedication to the gods started because I thought it was cool. Then after time I stopped thinking that way and just knew that I had found my purpose and no matter what, this was what I should have become. Not because of fate, or because the gods willed it. It was simply that it seemed to fit me perfectly. Sure, my other hobbies could entertain and such, but what I did then and now have an impact on people, it can help them, guide them, save them. You are a teacher of the mind, and that is a most admirable and needed role. I, however, am a teacher of the heart and soul."
Teresa found her story odd, devoting one's heart and soul to something because she found it cool was not something she could understand but frankly, she knew she wasn't one to understand people all that often. She was raised with a logical, albeit somewhat emotionally detached, mind and that is all she has ever known. She didn't work years to gain a doctoral degree because she thought being a teacher was cool, and she couldn't imagine training for years for such a reason to begin with. "I don't believe that people need saving. People are stronger than most realize and more often than not they can save themselves. However, I do believe I can understand where you are coming from in terms of finding a place that fits you. The world is a giant puzzle and it isn't too uncommon for people to have to give up part of themselves to find a place where they fit in but it is always nice to see the rare cases in which someone finds a place they can fit perfectly as who they are." Teresa spoke with genuine goodwill toward the woman she disagreed with, after all, she did understand how important it is to find ones place in the world and while she felt that Isis was misguided she felt that her intentions were good. "So, is it everything you hoped it would be? I mean, being a priest at a church seems a little different than what you described in the play." She asked, curious of what Isis would say.
"Heh, saving people through fighting or talking isn't much of a difference to me. I can help people, and that's all that matters to me. But... No. It isn't everything I imagined. Had it been the way I wanted it to be, I would still be at home in Subaine, helping my own people. I would still be part of the Queen's guard and I would not be separated from the gods to whom I've devoted my life to. And most of all, my country would not have been conquered by a tyrant." Isis spoke solemnly.
"I see..." She spoke, clearing her throat and checking her watch to avoid making the situation more awkward. "Ah, I believe that it is time for the children's lunch period. There is a park nearby across from a few different shops and food stands where we were planning to let the kids run around for a bit before they headed back to school if you were interested in joining us?" She spoke, somewhat against her better judgment but at the same time she had interrupted the field trip and thus it wouldn't hurt to give Isis a bit more time with the children if she desired it. "Please, I insist, I'll even buy lunch. I won't be able to forgive my interruption if I can't make it up to you in some way. I'm sure the children won't mind either."
Isis shook off her solemn look as she once more presented a genuine, if not slightly strained, smile to Teresa. "Well, I know better than to refuse such a dazzling and kind woman. I accept, as long as you're certain that I won't intrude." She spoke with a bow to the head before heading down the steps of the altar. At the last step, however, she seemed to hesitate. Isis turned around to face Teresa whom had begun to walk down as well. "Do you think I need to change out of my dress before we head out? It might be a bit distracting for the others if I walk around in something so... superfluous." Isis spoke with a giggle.
Teresa shrugged her shoulders, "I don't see the harm in changing into something more comfortable. It is quite hot out today and given that it is just a little past noon it is likely even hotter than earlier so I would assume that your robes would not be the best choice for walking around in on such a day." Teresa said, turning to look at all the students that still moved about. "It should take us a few minutes to gather everyone, if you would like to change then I doubt you will keep us waiting." She continued, signaling to one of the other teachers that it was time to start rounding up the kids.
Isis nodded as she walked out of sight. And into her office, a most humble piece of the construction when compared to the rest of the Cathedral. She swiftly changed from her obscenely excessive dress into something simpler. She got into her cyan top which certainly helped to promote her chest, together with a chest high, pink jacket. Couple that with some jeans shorts and her ruby necklace and she was ready to go. She exited the room and walked up to the gathered group of students and teachers. She heard some of the older boys making sounds of awe when she came up, together with some disgruntled sounds of annoyed girls. "By your leave, Ms. Stein."
Teresa nodded to Isis, waving her hand into the air to get the student's attention before bringing back to her side when all eyes were on her. "Alright, students, our lunch period is about to begin and we will be spending it at Central park where you will be allowed to cross the street to any of the stores or food stands to grab something to eat. I greatly advise against sneaking off as we will do a head count before halfway through the period, before we leave, and once we return to the school and as you all know, any who attempt to skip out and leave early will be punished with Saturday detention for the next several weeks." She spoke much to the student's dismay but even so they kept their attention on her, all of them moving out when she did. Teresa did not like being out in the mid-day sun, finding it difficult to even think with such rays bearing down on her but even so she lead the group several blocks to the large, open park where many other people were also spending their day. Once they had set up a meeting area near some picnic tables shaded by several large trees she allowed the group to disperse and go their separate ways. Some moving toward the edge of the park to reach the stores across the street while others unpacked homemade lunches and some simply began talking to one another. Teresa let out a quiet sigh as the large trees shaded them from the hot sun which allowed the cool breeze moving through the park to cool the area several degrees below the rest of the park. With the students doing their own thing, she turned to Isis, "So what are you in the mood for. Given we are no students we can go a bit further than they can if you have some idea of what you would like?"
Isis seemed a lot more relaxed out in the open when compared to the cathedral, giving off a sense of serenity. She took a look at Teresa and took notice of the growing glow of sweat upon her brow. "I know of a café not far from here. Got simple sandwiches and treats, and the atmosphere is simply, pardon the choice of words, divine. They even have coffee from Khemriq which I adore." Isis spoke with a slight bounce. While she would have preferred a nearby tavern or bar, she also knew of how hot those places could be even during a cool day, and if she judged correctly, that was the last that Teresa wanted right now. "Come, I'll show the way." Isis said as she waved for Teresa to join her as she walked down the streets. "I want to thank you for inviting me. I know it must be a difficult thing, but it is appreciated. And I feel that I must apologize for blurting out like that back in the church. It was not fair of me to just surface my issues to you like that."
"I don't believe there is any need to apologize. Everyone has moments of weakness and sometimes we need to talk about them. Even if it is to strangers," she said with a slightly teasing tone. "I cannot imagine what it would be like to be driven from your home to a completely new continent but that is why I like it here in the Toranku controlled countries, one never has to worry about a king or queen abusing their power." She said as the two entered the small café, the both of them ordering before sitting down at one of the small circular tables. "If I may ask, how have you enjoyed your time here in Hylion? I understand it might not compare to your home but I doubt it is all bad."
"'Might not compare'?" Isis said with a slight chuckle. "I may be proud of my heritage and home, but I am not a liar. I'd say that from an objective point of view, Hylion has many things that make it surpass Subaine. While your political system is odd to me, I see it's effectivity, how mages are handled in your land is superior to ours and I would be remiss to speak of this nation of yours without drawing mention to the climate and all the greenery, something rarely seen properly in the arid lands of Subaine." Isis spoke with much enthusiasm. "I suppose that pride and an affection for my land is the sole reason to as to why I'd rather live there, but Hylion is nothing to scoff at."
As she said this, their orders arrived, Isis' consisting of some Khemrian coffee and a raspberry muffin. "So... You know my story to the templar and priest role, how about you? What made you chose to dedicate your life to see the development of the younger minds?" She asked.
Teresa used her straw to stir the ice coffee in front of her, taking the time to think of exactly how to answer Isis' question. "I don't think I can pinpoint the exact moment I realized I wanted to be a teacher but I do know that I came to that conclusion very early in my life. I was raised in a middle-class family in Aðalbjörg where I spent the majority of my childhood in my studies. I suppose it was around that time that I began to understand the value of education and at the same time, how little teachers often really cared about educating their students correctly. They were so worried about making sure no one failed that they would pass students along who weren't ready simply to save the schools reputation but that sort of thinking lives the student ill-prepared for what he or she will face next and the cycle would continue until they were thrown out into the world. Frankly, I believe there are few things more dangerous than a complete fool that has gone their whole life believing they are smart. I saw this and I wanted to change it, little by little if I had to. So when I went to college I focused on getting a degree in education. However, the road has not been easy and I've quickly gained a reputation for being strict but I suppose that is the price one pays for caring in a world where few do..."
Isis pondered her words for a few minutes, not willing to cause a scene. But with lacking street smarts and carrying more wisdom for the spirit, she took to heart her teachings and made the attempt. "Blessed be the Satai's and Teachers of the world. Blessed be they, for thine teachings will make thee a parent of the spirit and mind. Blessed be the ones who shape the young into an instrument of greatness. Praised be those of hardened fists yet tender hearts, for they shall be the harbingers of tomorrow..." Isis muttered just loud enough for Teresa to hear her. Feeling heat rising to her cheeks, Isis giggled. "Forgive me, when I am at a loss for words I tend to reach for the teachings of the scripture. I thought it might be suiting, however, seeing as you clearly have a lot of passion for what you do, even if it is hidden beneath a mound of stoicism. I am certain that the gods have you favored, Teresa."
The blonde teacher paid little mind to whatever it was Isis seemed to say as she could make little sense of it anyhow, simply sipping at her cold drink until the priestess finished and continued speaking to her directly. "Don't worry about it, though, I would rather they favor someone a bit less fortunate than myself if they feel the need to favor anyone. I got where I am with hard work and dedication to my own beliefs. I'd much rather they change the heart of some teacher who hates their job or doesn't truly care about educating others." She said with a bit of a sigh, knowing there were probably more people like that in the world than she could ever know and she felt bad knowing that there were children who would have to be taught by such a person and so their failings would likely not be there own.
"It's not for us to decide who is and who isn't worthy of favor." Isis spoke firmly. "Nor is it their place to meddle with mortal hearts. There is virtue and salvation to find in self-insight, such as you. You are a prime example of someone who has reached the point of where they are through your own hard work rather than divine intervention, and isn't it then more favorable to be the shining example of what one should strive for in the profession?" Isis implored while attempting to be careful with how she worded herself while still standing true to the message. "I see the appeal in having some higher power re-write the being of people, but to do so would just diminish the idea of striving for greatness by our own means."
Teresa shook her head," While I would be honored to have others look up to me as a good teacher I'm afraid I am far from a shining example. I've made plenty of mistakes, let people slip through the cracks, and even given up on problem students before. There is also the fact that I myself am still a student, even if I no longer sit in a classroom to listen to lectures the world still has much to teach me about myself and what it means to be someone in my profession. I don't believe there is such a thing as a perfect teacher but even if there was I would certainly not be it," She said before taking a sip of her coffee. "As for your other point, I do agree that manipulating people is wrong whether you are a God or not but either way it still frustrates me that there are people who don't care about education working as teachers. I mean, could you imagine sending your kid to school and trusting someone to teach them only for that person to fail at that job and then send them out into the world anyway? It's no different than throwing a child out onto the streets, they don't know what they're doing because no one ever taught them. There are so many people just in Hylion that are like that and it's wrong..." She leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs at the same moment she crossed her arms and let out a quiet sigh. "I don't mean to ramble, I just find it frustrating."
Isis took a bite out of her muffin and sipped on her coffee, all while gathering her thoughts. She then smiled. "I'm a priest. It is my job to listen to people ramble. Mistakes, while difficult to deal with, are what shapes us into better people, however. I am not going to sit here and try and make you feel good about giving up, but what I will say is this. You are not alone. We are made, born, and die imperfect. No one can be all that it takes. But it is the journey that makes it all worthwhile. Unfortunate as it is that you let someone go, just by realizing your errors means that you are already becoming, or even are, a better person than you were then. As for how I would feel if I sent my child to a school which failed to deliver results and still allowed them to leave? I wouldn't be angry. Nor would I be sad. I would be disappointed. But not in the teacher, my child or even the school. I would be disappointed in myself for failing as a mother. No good parent abandons their child and expects everything to work out. I'd like to think that if I ever became a mother, then I would have the sensibility to look after my child even when they don't want me to. 'The kind parents guide their child through strife and the challenges of life until age catches up. But the wisest look after them long after they are ready to survive alone.'" Isis spoke calmly while looking out the window. "You are not alone to be blamed, Teresa."
Teresa didn't like the preachy nature in which Isis spoke, as though she wasn't talking to her as an equal but looking down on her like a child and telling her what she wants to hear. It was frustrating, to have worked so hard and still be looked down on by some people but ultimately she knew it was just Isis' nature as a priestess to speak the way she does. "But it is a teacher's fault if a student fails, just as much as it is the students, and even the parents. Because of how much the average working class parent works students often spend more time with their teachers than they do their parents and so it is our responsibility to take on that role and raise them like our own children until the day they graduate but there are so many teachers who act like robots, just there to spit out information and if the kid gets it that's great but if they don't then sorry about them. My point is that if you go through all the school and training required to be a teacher than you should do your job, you know?"
Isis nodded. While it was technically not allowed, she decided to drop the priestess act and just behave a bit more normally. It was clear that her spiritual wisdom from the writs were of no use in their current stance, so a switch of tactics was in order. "Of course. I wouldn't dream of taking that point away, I merely answered in earnest of what I would feel like in the position of a parent in the situation you draw. I must admit that it seems counterproductive to educate oneself for something one is not ultimately pleased with. I stand with you in the point you are making, though I must admit a certain confusion. Not by what you are trying to say, but the reason it is so common in the first place. What is the appeal for the teaching role but still not making it appealing enough to do legitimate work with the position? Is it considered 'easy' work or does it maybe pay well? What is it that attracts them?"
Teresa seemed to look past Isis, pondering her question before opening her mouth to answer. "I think a lot of them have given up. I wouldn't say the job itself is easy or difficult depending largely on the effort you put forth. A lot of the time a teacher knows exactly what they are to teach and given the freedom on how to teach it. One can come up with a fun and unique lesson plan or they can simply have the children read from a textbook. One is more effective than the other and sometimes what is easier on the teacher is less effective for the student such is the case with having them read out of a textbook. Perhaps they entered the field with a burning passion but that flame was snuffed out by the reality of the job. Some children take to learning easily while others resist and it is those who resist that require the most individual attention and sometimes you just can't give it to them because you have an entire class to teach. Watching helplessly as those students don't get the help they need weighs on the heart and maybe that is what kills passion. As they say, inside of every cynical person is a disappointed idealist. Maybe the same is true for teachers, inside every teacher who has lost hope is the remains of a passionate flame that burned out long ago..."
Isis was more or less at a loss for words. She was not certain of what she could say that would be fitting beyond pulling up some ancient wisdom, which most likely would be received with scorn from the lady in front of her. Finally giving up she just spoke what came to mind. "I know too well that feeling. Having a spark ignite an inferno only to be brought low into cinders. But then I must ask, why haven't you succumbed to the same downward spiral? What is it that has kept you from becoming one of the disillusioned teachers that have given up on their passions?"
"It's because I'm far too stubborn for my own good," She answered quickly and without hesitation. She was a woman aware of her own bad habits and did her best to turn them into positive ones or at the very least use them as such. "I didn't spend ten years of my life going through college to get a doctoral degree just to give up on everything I worked so hard for. It can be difficult, and it requires a lot more effort than most teachers are willing to put in but no matter what it will never be worth throwing away everything I've worked for or betraying my own ideas just because some snot-nosed brat doesn't want to learn. I admit I made some mistakes in the beginning but I've grown a lot since then and while it might have earned me the reputation of being strict it is just what I have to do to make sure that every student that walks out of the door of my classroom will be ready for whatever they find in the next one they enter. My flame doesn't burn out because I don't let the constant struggle dull the flame, I let it stoke it so that the flames become higher and burn hotter." She said with clear passion and determination in her voice, her muscles tensing and her fists tightened as though she were a boxer about to enter the ring for a championship match.
Isis smiled on the inside as Teresa vented her feelings and explained her reasonings. While Isis did not show any outward emotion, her eyes betrayed her for those with keen sight. She sipped on her semi-hot coffee once more before speaking. "I believe that we are alike in that regard. We have both made mistakes which we regret, but we don't allow that to stop us from continuing our work, nor quench the flames of our dreams and ideals and it has changed us to some extent. Though, maybe to various different results." Isis said with a chuckle.
"Perhaps, I mean, everyone makes mistakes and has regrets. It's just what it means to be alive and making decisions. Like they say, it's not whether or not that you get knocked down that defines you, it's whether or not you're willing to get back up, dust yourself off, and keep going that makes you who you are." She shrugged slightly before finishing her iced coffee, feeling better to have the icy chill inside her to combat the overwhelming heat of the day. "Everyone sees the world differently, and while we disagree on some rather large aspects of it I don't believe that there are any mal intentions behind either of our teachings, though, I'll have to be the one to hear it if one of them goes home and tells their parents you were proselytizing them so if you could do your best to spare me those long conversations it would be most appreciated."
This would prove to be the first of moments where Isis displayed another emotion than solemn contemplation or cheer. Now she displayed a sense of agitation that could have sent shivers down the spine of lesser men and women. "That was uncalled for, Ms Stein. I have done no such thing and have gone through great effort and spiritual disdain to not speak in such a manner. At 'worst' I have offered a new way to think about charity and have tried to involve the gods as little as possible in our tour. If the parents of your students believed that this would be detrimental to them, then maybe they shouldn't have signed the papers to allow them to come." Isis spoke sternly as she put her cup down. "Listen, I know that you have no favor in your heart for the spiritual or those who practice it. I can understand and live with that, but don't you dare come and accuse me of proselytizing anyone. Your school approached me. The parents approved of this trip. I will not have blame shifted unto me in any of this."
"Dr. Stein," She felt the need to finally correct the woman now that her tone had become one less than friendly. "You are correct that I have little room in my heart for the spiritual or those taken in by them but that has nothing to do with the point that I have brought up nor have I accused you of anything. As I said, I am well aware that your intentions are good natured and your intentions are the same but I know very well that priests and priestesses alike are driven by their religion to convert others be it for their own personal gain or because they honestly believe that they will save their mortal souls. It is in their nature and while some are not as pushy as others I would be quite surprised to find out that you have never attempted to convert a 'lost and weary soul' to your cause." She said responded quickly to Isis' defensive tone, "The parents of these children signed their permission slips for this field trip because they believed their children to be smart enough to make the right choices and not fall for ideas too good to be true and while I don't question their intelligence I understand just as much as you do that they are at a developing stage in their lives where they are easily swayed and molded by what they hear from us adult and all I was asking you to do is watch how you speak to them during the remainder of this trip. If you approach them again someday as adults I have no problems with this but right now the parents of those children have placed their fragile minds into the hands of me and my staff and until they are dismissed at the end of the day to return home I take full responsibility for everything that happens to them." Teresa spoke with a bit more bite in her voice, "I simply thought an understanding and passionate woman would respect another passionate individual's position enough to see where I am coming from in asking that you watch what you say around them."
"Implying that I haven't already." Isis spoke with a bitter bite in her tone. "I'll have you know that I haven't attempted anything of the like of proselytizing or made deliberate attempts to convert anyone since coming to Ashvattha. I do as my faith dictates, to do good in the world even when suffering persecution for it, and if people seek me for my good deeds and asks to learn, then I am not in the right to deny them. And what is this about them being smart enough not to fall for it, to make the right choices? How arrogant are you to think to know what is best for them when knowing so little about the path they might choose to take? Does it make me the fool for following something greater than myself? I have chosen and spoken my words with care, Doctor. I have shown nothing but respect, compassion and understand through your entire being here. Perhaps you should work to do the same."
"I said smart enough to not fall for things too good to be true, I'm sure anyone joining a religion understands that it isn't all rainbows and butterflies but children don't understand that. They trust adults to tell them to truth and when it comes to selling something, it being shampoo, a house, or even an idea, people rarely tell the full truth and with them being so young and naive they'll take it all as truth. Not all of them but some of them will. I have never stated that I knew the path that was best of them or that I even know the path best for myself but you don't know either and neither to them but most of them are at a point in their life right now where they are searching desperately to be someone or something they can call their own and the last thing they need is someone preaching ideas to them. I teach them science, history, language, literature, math, and magic all of those things can be lectured without once putting the idea in their head they have to devote their lives to them and that is something you can't say the same about and that is where me saying something to them and you saying something to them differs. I simply asked you to be mindful of that and you are the one taking it as an attack."
"So is that what it comes down to then? You don't think that I am telling the truth? That I am withholding information to make my faith seem more appealing? Is that the point you are trying to make here?" Isis spoke, sounding less agitated, not for the sake of anything spoken by Teresa but that she simply caught herself feeling more and more agitated and began to work to subdue it, yet her eyes still shone with discontention.
"It's human nature to withhold the bad and hype the good when it comes to something they are passionate about. It isn't always a conscious decision but in this case I wanted to make it one, I wanted to make you aware, in the slight chance that you weren't already, that your words hold a lot more power than you think they do especially to children who have yet to develop enough to truly think through the choices they make. If that offends you in some way then I am sorry that you are so sensitive but that doesn't change the fact that it wasn't my intention nor does it change the fact that I am right. Facts do not end where feelings begin and while I'm sure many wish otherwise that does not change the truth. I do not believe you to be a bad person nor do I believe your intentions to be bad but I have every right as those students temporary guardian to ask you to watch what you say no different than if I asked someone to watch their language around them. You do what I have asked you out of respect for my decision or out of basic courtesy or you cannot and it is as simple as that." Teresa spoke bluntly, with little emotion in her voice as the logical side of herself had taken over.
"That was never in question. You speak with such certainty and assurance that you know what I am all about when you hardly know the slightest bit about me or the church which I represent. I am not here to indoctrinate, nor convert your students. Through it all I have been perfectly reasonable in my lectures. I spoke from neutral standpoint so as to not spread misinformation or false ideas. I have seen to my role as is befitting of our arrangement and position. I have done as was agreed upon, and regardless of you and your words, I was and will continue to do so." Isis spoke, growing tired of Teresa's 'Greater than thou' mentality she seemed to have.
Teresa let out a quiet but audible sigh, "Then do as you will. It appears my attempts to prevent one headache has done little more than reward me with another," She said before glancing down at her watch and standing up, leaving the payment for their lunch on the table. "The lunch period is almost over, and I imagine there will be little more to gain from this conversation for either of us." She continued before moving to leave the cafe and head back toward the park.
Isis downed the last of her drink and muffin before heading out as well, keeping a couple of feets worth of distance between the two. As they approached the park, she could see that most of the kids had already gathered together, ready for whatever was coming next, whether that be more lectures or the opportunity to finally go home. Isis stayed a few paces back as Teresa went up to the class. Isis took care to not overstay her welcome, as she figured that most of the kids while not displeased with her presence, weren't probably all that fond of her being there either. As such she made sure to stay a bit of a distance away, to only approach if asked.
Teresa cleared her throat, not exactly thrilled to be out in the sun again but regardless she addressed the students. "Now that all of you are here I would like to thank each of you for being on your best behavior during this outing. You have all done a great job of representing our school during this time and for that, all of us are very grateful. We will be returning to the school shortly where we will join the rest of the school in this month's pep rally to cheer on our sports teams. However, before then, I'm sure our host would also like to thank you." She spoke, her voice raised as to not let the noise of the students or the city drown her out before turning to Isis. While it was obvious the two had their differences of idea and opinion she would not allow herself to be maliciously rude to the woman. "Would you like to say goodbye to them?"
Isis iconic smile returned upon her features as she approached the children. She bowed deeply before them before speaking: "Farewell youngsters. I wish to thank you all for coming and enduring my spiritual ramblings. It has been a joy and honor to have you visit us and our less than humble church, and it has been nothing short of a privilege to teach you about some of the customs and ideas of Subaine. I now wish you good fortune in your future endeavors and hope that you will strive to accomplish your dreams and desires. Thank you all for your time." She spoke, keeping it a bit short as to not lose the attention of the kids. The kids and teachers began to make their way towards whatever transport would take them back to their school, before Isis asked Teresa to halt. Isis walked up to her after having rummaged through her pockets for a bit, pulling out four gem encrusted gold coins of considerable size. "For the kids who stepped up to answer. Enthusiasm is something rare to find when learning about faith these days I find. One coin for each kid, and one for you."
"Thank you. I will be sure that each of them receives your gift. I am sorry the two of us are not leaving on better terms but thank you for speaking with the students and allowing them to visit your church. I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors, Miss Madu." She spoke as she slid the coins into her purse, making a mental note to stop the three kids before they left to go home for the day. "Have a nice day, perhaps we will cross paths again one day. I'll be sure to contact you if I have any sudden revelations of faith or questions I am curious about," she did her best not to sound as though she were making a joke, doubting she would have such a revelation but being truthful that she would seek out Isis if she did. The blonde woman extended her hand to offer a parting handshake to the woman, in hope to keep the respectful nature of their meeting even if it had gotten a bit personal before.
Isis accepted the handshake, not a hint of hostility or resentment in the gesture. "And thank you, Dr Stein. Thank you for bringing the kids and with such a care for their well-being. Despite our differences, you have given me a lot to think about, and that in and of itself deserves to be commended." Isis spoke as she turned the words Teresa had said around in her head, trying to make sense of them. Regardless of whether she was genuine or if she was trying to simply make a joke out of it, she did not care which, she would respond in kind. "Should such a moment arise, I'd be happy to receive you, but until then, keep on being that lovely skeptic that you are." Isis spoke as she let go of Teresa's hand and began to make her way back to the church.