The Fall of Peter

I Leaders

1. In the very next day, at afternoon, Pope Francis gathers the cardinals of the Vatican for a quick encouragement speech. They all come in the Basilica, at the conclave room, sitting in their respective chairs.
2. Right after everyone arrived, and before the Holy Father could start talking, one of the cardinals gets up. He walks to the pope, nod his head down in respect for the patriarch, and delivers to the Holy Father his biretta and ring, befor leaving the room.
3. The pope soon acquired a disbelieving expression on his face, he knew that was just an informal way to resign, probably as a reaction for the repercussion of the battle. Why else would that cardinal do that?
4. But, before he could process it all in his head, another cardinal gets up and does the same. And in a matter of minutes, about ten other cardinals do the same.
5. The other cardinals were terrified by that action of their own brothers. And while Pope Francis tried to absorb what just happened, two more cardinals, moved by fear, also gave part of their vestments and left the room. The Holy Father can no longer stay quiet.

6. "Does anyone else have to do the same again? It's interesting how they showed fear, but had the guts to come here and insult our order doing this disappointing act, symbolizing a resignation.
7. It's even more disappointing to know that those man are not just acquiring a different point of view of God... They're just giving up on Him...
8. Now, I want every single soul here, who is still afraid, to lift up your hands."
Pope Francis says, as the cardinals start to raise their hands until there's no one with theirs down low.

9. "Now, I want you all to transform this sign of apprehension into an acclamation of guidance and knowledge. Because God once said: 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'
10. Pray for Him, and He will protect you, like Jesus did in the desert. Trust Him, and he will serve you with water and food, just like Moses did in the search for the promised land.
11. And most important, never give up on Him, and He will never give up on you, just like Job when he lost everything and everyone."
The Holy Father tries to encourage his sheeps.

12. The reunion is then finalized, and the cardinals leave the room. Parolin approximates to the pope.

13. "You did all you could, Holy Father. Now it's up to them to show if they will sacrifice themselves for God.
The secretary of State says, in an attempt to comfort the Supreme Pontiff.

14. "I know... But I did see your hands up high too, your eminence."
Pope Francis says.

15. "Well, you told me to do so if I was in fear... I am. But, I'm willing to take the risks... And you were right, Your Holiness, just like you told me, no one here could be a saint... It seems like sacrifice is no longer an option."
The cardinal says in disappointment.

16. "That's because we're cowards... just like I also told you..."
The pope replies. It seemed like his hopes were just sinking lower and lower.

17. "Yes... By the way, Abate is coming back. Tomorrow afternoon he'll be here."
Parolin points out.

18. The pope thanks the cardinal, anxious to see his friend again, and takes a time to assimilate his plans and if he could actually pull this out. Little did he know that while he was falling in negativity again, Peter was ready to encourage his own followers.