It took nearly an hour for the pyre to burn its course and turn into fine ash completely. After which, the Pope went ahead and picked up the ashes.
As for the Cardinals and others who had come to see it, they paid their final respects and started returning to their workplaces. Most were heads of essential departments, after all.
As for Sylvester, he remained there just in case the Pope needed some help. He was honestly confused about the Pope as the man didn't fit on any side. One moment the Pope seemed against him, and other times he seemed like the best ally to have. It was getting hard to see which shade of grey the old man was on any particular day.
'Fine, if they keep me inside the Holy Land for six months, then I shall use that time to create my own string of connections. But… I can't begin to create my own secret association until I find an oath that binds life itself… There has to be something. Perhaps Bishop Lazak would know.'
