STORY

STORY

DEAD BABY JESUS
[Lost Days of Warmth: Xenoblade Chronicles 3 OST]
2024-12-20 19:34:25
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 11:50:06

A group has gathered outside of the Abrahamic Corporation. It appears no one is currently watching the front door, as it is locked. Looking around they notice there's a few other directions to go, such as to the basement (which is unlocked), around the back to the garden, or towards the Abrahamic Corporation graveyard.

Wishi
2024-12-20 19:35:09
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 11:50:17
"I just wanted to say again, I am so grateful for you guys allowing me to tag along… the directions I've been getting were… confusing."
"Yeah. Sorry we couldn't get you here in a time where it was open, though."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 19:35:40
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 11:50:35
"Did no one simply tell you to go to the largish building in the middle of the wasteland?"
D'arc
2024-12-20 19:35:59
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:45:04
"When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them."
D'arc
2024-12-20 19:36:11
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:44:58
"Leviticus 19:33-34, dear fool. It is of my natural good will to help thee."
Wishi
2024-12-20 19:36:29
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:15:28
"No… none of them told me about the buildings. Oh well, it helps we are all being escorted by a real Chr- I mean Christian."
"Well, if the main entrance isn't available, where to go instead...
Wishi
2024-12-20 19:36:59
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:15:53
"Well we have a Christian, so… where do we go?" They said looking at Joan.
"Yes Christian, give us your wisdom into the nature of your own house."
D'arc
2024-12-20 19:37:57
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:44:49
"The garden is where Big J been's around for the past few days, tending to his garden. The basement is where Smaller J is most likely. He is of your kin, but taller and more clean."
D'arc
2024-12-20 19:38:09
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:44:44
"The graveyard's always a treat, though. Truly quiet, and the dead surely can't speak any imbecilities."
"The big J is the Jeez-Us right?"
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 19:38:53
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:18:59
Bello bristles and quietly hisses at the implication that she is unclean.
"Well, I personally would enjoy visiting the garden. Those are always pleasant to visit."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 19:39:34
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:18:07
"I would personally be interested in meeting a potential kinsman but I suppose I can defer to your desire to see the garden."
"Yes, who is better to meet then the big man himself! Plus… I do miss a bit of jungle… it reminds me of home."
[Inscryption OST 24 - Grimora's Crypt]
The group head towards the garden. As they approach they find two people speaking over a wandettle. Jesus is kneeled next to the creature, patting it and shifting it slightly.
James
2024-12-20 19:41:37
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:38:23
"A shame. It has died within its cocoon. Its mother will not be happy to see this."
2024-12-20 19:42:20
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Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:42:31

"............................................."

"It may be for the best that we bury it."
"Oh, how sad! What a poor creature!"
"...Wait, why does it have a handle on it?"
D'arc
2024-12-20 19:44:01
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:44:31
"..."
D'arc
2024-12-20 19:44:12
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:44:38
"We have guests, brothers."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 19:45:15
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:44:40
"Yes a most tragic and abrupt end to an innocent creature's life."
Wishi
2024-12-20 19:45:34
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:49:09
As Wishi trails behind, the box they bring screeches. They notice the poor wandettle and choose to stay silent, wishing they could tell their friend to join the silence.
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 19:45:47
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:45:30
"At least it will not suffer the indignities that often accompany living in this universe."
James
2024-12-20 19:46:26
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:38:34
"Ah, sorry guests, you have come at a bad......." James stares at the other vampwelf in the group, but he chooses to keep quite for now. "...time."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 19:46:48
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:45:25
.......................
Jesus
2024-12-20 19:47:24
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:47:14
"My apologies. Welcome to the garden, friends. You are free to wander if you wish, but please avoid eating any fruit you find. I intend to plant those."
Jesus
2024-12-20 19:47:34
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:50:34
"Should there be anything you need, please feel free to ask."
Etharia
2024-12-20 19:47:46
Etharia Profile
Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:50:15
"I can see this very much is a bad time to arrive. If you do go forward with a burial, might I assist? I do so hate to see such a sorry sight."
Jesus
2024-12-20 19:48:06
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 19:51:08
"It is a shame, for all her other children have been looted and infected with parasites. It is nature, but it has been hard to watch her brood die one by one."
Wishi
2024-12-20 19:48:31
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:47:40
"Yes I don't want to interrupt… I'd like to help too. Afterwards, I could use your help in return." They were nervous talking to someone they had only heard in rumors.
"It is a shame, for all her other children have been looted and infected with parasites. It is nature, but it has been hard to watch her brood die one by one."
"I watched over this little one, but it was not to be. It died on its way to grace."
"Nature can indeed be brutal. Were I this young one's mother, I would like to know what befell my child first, however."
"I agree. But let us not be too close to the corpse."
"Let us all have tea inside. We can watch from safety."
"Is there something to be concerned of if we were to stay nearby the corpse."
"Would it be perhaps something... interesting to watch?"
"A grieving parent may turn violent."
"Ah yes, you are quite correct about this."
Wishi
2024-12-20 19:54:52
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:49:55
"Oh inside… " The box thuds again, a crashing noise against it. "Is there somewhere I could put… I don't want to bring xem inside. I don't want the wheels to get dirt all over the place."
"There is a shed if you need to store your supplies."
"I apologize. We can talk about what you need once we're inside."
"But I'd also rather not be mauled by a grieving parent." They nodded. "… Thank you, so much." The worry on the vinopinaes face seemed to somewhat melt.
"Thank you very much for your hospitality."

Jesus opens the front door to the Abrahamic Corporation and allows everyone in. Everyone gathers around a large table by the window. While Jesus grabs tea, the beats of large wings can be heard.

The mother lands next to her dead child. "Waaaaaan?"

"You know, I don't think I've ever actually seen an adult wandettle before."
D'arc
2024-12-20 20:00:03
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:52:37
"It is quite the poached species, after all, dear fo- Ahem. Guest."

Using her large front claws she rolls it slightly before picking it up to clean it. She places it back down before standing over it as a lookout. She's not quite sure why the child isn't moving, but she wants to keep watch to avoid another death, or poaching of her young.

Wishi
2024-12-20 20:00:50
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:54:14
Wishi watches the mother. "…She… she doesn't understand does she…?" their voice was choked.
D'arc
2024-12-20 20:01:11
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:58:23
"It is one of theses animals where the whole world is against you. Parasites. Predators. Poachers. Only a few get to adulthood."
James
2024-12-20 20:02:46
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:38:51
"Due to....events......there's quite a lot of wandettle adults around our company."
James
2024-12-20 20:04:00
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:58:40
"But that also means the rate of poaching and parasites has skyrocketed. It will be awhile before things are put into balance."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 20:05:01
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:58:49
"What sorts of 'events' might these be, dear sir."
"I wish there was something we could do…." She said continuing to watch the situation.
James
2024-12-20 20:04:21
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:39:05
James hisses at the other vampwelf. "Wouldn't you like to know about everyone's troubles......" He does not comment on the incorrect title.
"!!!"
"She clearly doesn't quite comprehend her child's fate. It would most likely be healthier for her were she separated from her child, though I doubt she'd be willing to let the body go."
"That is the hard part about animals. I am unsure of what to do about their fates."
"I wish the best for them, but they cannot tell us what they want."
"I have seen in some documentaries that in situations like this, they would make some sort of replica of the lost child to sate the parent while the corpse is removed. Do you have anything on hand to make something like that?"
Bello seethes inward. "I would mind your manners when a lady is asking you a question."
James
2024-12-20 20:13:54
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:43:51
"A lady should not be passive aggressive in front of good company!"
Jesus
2024-12-20 20:14:19
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:59:50
"mmmmmmmmmmmmmm."
"I know what you mean…. Before this I wanted to be an adventurer making friends with many creatures… but… not everyone is as friendly as back home, sometimes things happen. It's a scary world out there… "
"What is going on, James?"
"….?"
"And a lord should understand how to behave in the company of his betters, cousin."
"Cousin?"
"Hmm, I did not say this."
Wishi
2024-12-20 20:17:57
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:02:55
Why does the plot always twist while I'm around. "… f-family reunion?"
James
2024-12-20 20:19:25
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:44:04
"I'm a vampwelf! I got a 100 and 1 dam-"
"M..."
James
2024-12-20 20:19:33
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:44:10
"-darn cousins."
D'arc sips the tea, in awe of the family reunion.
"This I suppose is quite true."
James
2024-12-20 20:21:47
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:44:21
"Do you kind people know the person you are travelling with?"
James
2024-12-20 20:21:59
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:44:29
"Or did you find her on the street?"
Wishi
2024-12-20 20:22:57
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:03:40
"N-no not really. I originally joined the company of this ro- AI…"
"I wouldn't put it in such rude terms, but the latter is technically true..."
D'arc
2024-12-20 20:24:17
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:03:51
"James. I'm sure half of our ensemble were found in the street, no?"
Wishi
2024-12-20 20:24:30
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 20:24:40
"This is true…"
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 20:25:51
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:04:41
"I was indeed wandering the street, when I... banded... with these folk."
"You should not be rude to our guests, James."
"Yes 'James' you should be polite to your guests."
"Ok, that's enough! Miss, you clearly have some sort of issue with this James fellow, so stop being passive-aggressive and just get to the point!"
James
2024-12-20 20:29:53
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:05:16
James wants to say something snarky. Call her an intruder, not a guest, but he holds his tongue. "Sorry...." James would normally say "my lord" but doesn't want to state such in front of another vampwelf. "...forgive me. Me and her can speak later."
James
2024-12-20 20:30:02
James Profile
Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:44:52
"...in private. Like adults...."
"Yes, like good respectable, adults."
James
2024-12-20 20:30:13
James Profile
Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:45:00
"I believe you all came for a reason, yes? What can we help you with?"
"Yes, to get back to the point. My mushbird here is very skilled at artistic endeavors. As such, I was wondering if you'd consider allowing our assistance in making a replica of the late wandettle, in order to separate the mother from the corpse?"
"That should work, right?"
"It will be like a headstone to her. Yes I agree."
"I… came for a different reason… I'm worried of alarming people…"
They rub their upper hands more nervously. But the thought of doing something nice for that poor mother made them feel a little better.
"If you could create a headstone for the mother, I think it will allow her more time to understand the issue. Right now I worry other animals will eat the corpse before she understands, and she has lost so much already."
"What sort of materials might you have at hand for this?"
Wishi
2024-12-20 20:34:54
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:06:07
They nodded. "If you need AI, I could have my heer search for some items, they are quite good at… obtaining items."
"That'd be perfect, thanks!"
"I'd be more to glad to give you a bit of my belongings for your little DIY project. If you ask for "art supplies", so shall you receive."
"We have stone, but not much else. Anything that can be donated is welcomed."
"I suppose I could be persuaded to assist you in this sentimental task."
"Or more accurately my Lucy could certainly keep the mother calm while preparations are made..."
"If she feels like it."
They nod to their Heer, which uses [Hammerspace]. "Go find us something to help build this, thank you darling…"
Wishi rolls a 20 sided die. A 5 is rolled.

The heer summons a gun.

D'arc
2024-12-20 20:41:15
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Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:11:41
D'arc puts a Voracious Frog Plushie and a Tattered Woopy Doll on the table.

"..."
"......."
"…"
Etharia
2024-12-20 20:42:24
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:11:52
"WHAT THE FUCK."
2024-12-20 20:43:50
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 20:44:09

He is awaiting his pats.

Jesus pats the creature. It tried.
Wishi
2024-12-20 20:46:02
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 20:46:13
"… wrong… answer darling… thanks for trying though." They quickly give their heer pats and a treat. "He is still learning."
Wishi
2024-12-20 20:50:04
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:12:17
"Last time he summoned a currency called 'dabloons', I couldn't use them anywhere. He does that a lot."
2024-12-20 20:47:45
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 20:50:22

Lucy heads outside and sits near the mother to keep her tame.

Lucy rolls a 20 sided die with a modifier of +5. A 14 is rolled.
2024-12-20 20:49:14
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Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:12:39

The mother raises her claw, but just seems to pat Lucy down. Lucy is not a parasite, and thus is safe from her rage.

"That seems like a positive result of a social interaction to me."
"Indeed."
"These seem like they will come in handy. Snipperclip, if you would?" (Snipperclip uses [Blessed Craftsman] on the two plushes, attempting to make something more resembling a wandettle)
Etharia rolls a 20 sided die. An 18 is rolled.

The items are turned into something that looks just like the dead wandettle!

"Oh, excellent work! Who's a good bird, you are, yes, you are!"
James
2024-12-20 20:53:45
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:45:16
"The mother is distracted, and a "headstone" made."
James
2024-12-20 20:54:04
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:45:23
"Who would like to place it? Maybe you, my lady?"
Wishi
2024-12-20 20:55:14
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:28:58
"Good mushbird good mushbird!!!" They nodded in agreement.
"This seems more like the work of a gentleman wouldn't you agree, sir?"
Attempting to defuse the ticking time bomb that is the two vampwelfs, Etharia interves.

"I'll take it, if that's alright."
James
2024-12-20 20:56:24
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:45:34
"You are too kind. I can get it done."
"…?"
James
2024-12-20 20:56:47
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:21:53
"No, no. Let me take the risk. I am the one with a gun, just in case it gets too risky."
James
2024-12-20 20:56:58
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:45:51
"If she believes you are trying to hurt her child, she may attack, and I don't want most of you to get hurt."
"All of you to get hurt."
James
2024-12-20 20:57:06
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:46:02
"All of you to get hurt."
"Thank you, then. I wish you luck."
"Hmph."
"Thank you kind sir! We wish you luck! "
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:01:04
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:40:01
"Indeed, don't die to a bug, 'James'."
"Isn't everyone here so lovely. This is way better than earlier today…"
D'arc
2024-12-20 21:01:34
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:20:51
"Be careful and take care, James. May you reap the good you sow."
James
2024-12-20 21:01:50
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:46:11
James picks up the "headstone" and uses his rifle as a cane as he heads outside. As he crosses the path of the mother, he hopes that Lucy keeps the mother distracted.
Saint James rolls a 20 sided die with a modifier of +5. A 19 is rolled.

Lucy does a cool flip!

"Scaaaaaar!" The mother is completely in awe!

Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:04:56
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:05:03
Bello tries her best to not look impressed by Lucy's sweet flip.
Surprisingly by happenstance this was the first flip they saw today. "Whoa… how'd you teach her to do that..?"
"With many, many, many, pancakes."
James
2024-12-20 21:06:56
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Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:46:20
James hobbles back inside. "Job well done, yes? Very happy to see how well a dwelya can be trained."
Jesus
2024-12-20 21:07:19
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:46:43
"Thank you James for your help. Thank you all. I know this was not a serious matter, but to this mother I am sure it means a lot. A headstone for the "dead" may seem wasteful, until one comes to terms it is not for those who have died, but those who are left behind."
"...Yes, It is quite alright to allow the... luxury of a headstone."
D'arc
2024-12-20 21:07:53
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Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:56:30
"With all said and done, may I ask a thing?"
Jesus
2024-12-20 21:07:33
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:56:29
"Please, allow me to help you all in any way you need."
"Dear fooli- Ahem. Guests, ever considered joining our little religion?"
"I have considered it, but I will have to refuse. There are many walks of life, and with the things I have seen and done, that is not the one for me."
"I cannot say that I ever have."
Wishi
2024-12-20 21:09:39
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 13:57:05
"My species doesn't follow many gods… other than who are kind and friendly, those wiling to have a conversation…. I think for me though. If you guys manage to help my friend. That's enough to convince me. That would be a miracle in itself."
James
2024-12-20 21:10:06
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Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:47:44
"Tell us about this miracle you need."
James
2024-12-20 21:10:14
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:47:52
"Jesus stands before you, He will help."
"I will try my best, as you have helped me, I will repay two-fold."
Bello holds back her tongue from this... *display*
Wishi
2024-12-20 21:10:58
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:01:11
They rubbed their hands nervously. This may alarm those that they were traveling with, but it would be hard not to notice. "I know this word comes with a lot of anger, but I know some Christians are clockworks, but non-infectious ones…"
Wishi
2024-12-20 21:11:06
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:03:01
"My friend… they've been inflicted with the same disease, their mind isn't entirely gone but… they're enraged, consumed by it… you guys are able to resist temptation, I was wondering if you could cure my friend in a similar way."
Wishi
2024-12-20 21:11:15
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:03:19
"I know many would think xem a monster, but I know xe still recognizes me… they haven't hurt me once when I give them food… you're my last hope on this… I was scared going so far from home, but please…"
"Anything…"
"Yes. This is possible, with my blood and flesh the madness that consumes every clockwork can be cured."
"But I do not wish to give you false expectations. Your friend shall be an angel, a docile type of clockwork. Sadly, this will remove most forms of anger. Many angels do not even strike back when attacked by those who are not clockworks."
"Your friend will not be 100% the same. The madness of the clockwork virus has likely already corrupted their memories, but some of them will come back. If it has not been too long, maybe even most of them."
"Do you understand the words I speak?"
They nod, they knew there would never be a perfect solution, but this, this was more than she could even hope for. "Yes. I understand. Even so this is a better fate for xem…. You've given me hope for the first time in 2 months."
James
2024-12-20 21:13:40
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:48:05
James silently brings out a plate and cup.
"Then, so shall it be."
Jesus pulls out the red "cord" connecting to his arm. It is a vein. Blood is poured out into the cup. He reattaches it back into his hand once an inch has been poured. He then, with pain, digs into his open chest cavity and rips a small piece of meat to place on the plate.
"It may not look like much, but every meal is to be honored. Take it to your friend and leave them. No clockwork would turn down such a meal. For the best results, come back to them in three days, and they shall be well again."
To give for someone you haven't even met yet. It's odd to see such a kind soul outside of their home world. They could see why this was someone people followed. "T-thank you so much"
"Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them. Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. John 6:56-57"
They politely exit, eager to give this to their friend, and head to the shed they had hid xir box in.
Jesus leans over to James. ("Were John's words that important? He quotes them often.")
James
2024-12-20 21:16:11
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:48:18
("Ha. Ha. Do not worry about it.")
Etharia
2024-12-20 21:16:34
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:06:34
"There is one thing, actually. This lost child, I still pity it. I am a traveller, though, and I had something of an idea. Though it is a somewhat selfish desire, I think I would appreciate giving this child the chance in death it could not have in life to see the vast universe."
Jesus
2024-12-20 21:16:50
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:18:46
"What is your request? Do not mind how selfish, for I have asked something selfish of you, and you have delivered. So let me deliver your "selfish" needs."
Jesus
2024-12-20 21:16:58
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:18:52
"Do you wish to take the body with you?"
"Yes, I suppose that's the essence of my request."
James
2024-12-20 21:19:28
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:48:30
"It would look good, stuffed, and in a museum."
"It would be quite dashing mounted on a wall."
"I allow you to take it, and do as you please, as I am assured you will do the best for this lost child."
"Many thanks. You lot are doing good work here, and I'm glad to see that."
"The doors to heaven are always open if you change your mind on the topic of religion."
"Yes, I suppose I shall keep that in mind."
Later...
James
2024-12-20 21:23:52
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Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:48:48
After the dinner, James approaches the basement of the Abrahamic Corporation. He does not look behind him, he knows instinctually she'd be following. "If you are going to come Lady please do stay a good few feet behind until I finish lighting the flames. The congregation is a friendly bunch, but I fear you might hurt them if they get to close to you."
"Oh do not worry, It would not be the first time I had to stay my hand in the company of dangerous beasts." Bello nontheless follows behind at a reasonably safe distance.

James lights the first torch. The light illuminates the clockworks. "Hrrrkhrrrk hrrrkk!!"

Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:25:40
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:08:45
"Lovely."
James
2024-12-20 21:25:51
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:11:10
They quickly slink back, and with each torch James lights, there is a brief moment where a wall of flesh and malformed limbs jumps back in a fright. James taps his head. "This is where the ones who are more gone than others are kept."
James
2024-12-20 21:26:05
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:49:04
"And if you make a joke about this being my workspace, I will be forced to ask for forgiveness, but not from you!"
"Have you been too far gone from home and kin to appreciate the lovely banter of your people, kinsman."
"Though, looking around, I suppose some things are not so different from home now, are they."
James
2024-12-20 21:27:13
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Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:49:14
He lights another torch. The stairs finally ending. "I have never been fond of the banter."
James
2024-12-20 21:27:29
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:49:22
"That is why I did the killing instead. No need to talk. Just kill each other. The meaning is simpler."
James
2024-12-20 21:27:36
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:49:31
"I do not like you! You do not like me! One of us will die! Nice and simple."
Bello says quietly to herself. "I've never cared for it either, really..."
"Ah, I see we are truly past the polite banter and on to the real meaty words of diplomacy, cousin."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:28:41
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:13:11
"But do not mistake yourself kinsman, I do not hate, though I cannot deny the contempt I feel at witnessing you're simpering obsequience."
James
2024-12-20 21:29:07
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:49:39
"If you are some envoy from the head of the house here to tell me I must get married-"
James
2024-12-20 21:29:26
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:49:49
"-THEN PLEASE BE REMINDED THAT I HAVE SPECIALLY REQUESTED THAT ANY ARRAGNMENTS BE AT LEAST 3 GENERATIONS WORTH OF BLOOD AWAY FROM ME."
"Do you truly think Prince Boris would send his own daughter to badger someone of your station with a marriage request?"
"You truly have been away from home far too long, dear cousin."
James
2024-12-20 21:30:35
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:16:10
"Maybe you see more highly of him, but I have been away from the home for so long that it would not surprise me if Prince Boris was overthrown and replaced by someone more idiotic. (Of course, to then be overthrown by a hidden coup from Prince Boris!")
"Indeed, Father is getting rather old I suppose, the wolves must surely be braying at his door in force these days."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:31:25
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:15:45
"But no, this is not the reason I have darkened your quaint little clockwork club with my most unwelcome presence. No, in fact I would suggest you think of it as more of a "charity" expedition of some sort."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:31:38
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:16:20
"I do hear you Christians love your 'Charity'."
James
2024-12-20 21:32:01
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:50:06
"Hahaha!!!"
James
2024-12-20 21:32:18
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:16:48
"Von Drakkens and "Charity" do not go well together. I am not stupid. I've been on a few "charity drives" and they were quite bloody once we were behind our host's lines."
James
2024-12-20 21:32:27
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:50:21
"But please! Go on about this charity."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:33:19
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:17:11
"Hmm." Bellodonna taps her sword a few times, contemplating whether to proceed with her course of action. "I suppose I am down here, after all."
James
2024-12-20 21:33:30
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:50:28
"As foolish as this sounds. I feel pity on the congregation."
James
2024-12-20 21:34:40
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:18:56
"If you kill me here, they are angels. They will only weep for me. They will not harm you. So do be Lady like to them. Yes. They won't harm you."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:34:02
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:18:56
"You see, it is like this. Dear Father is well aware of what you are getting on with down here, with your little Clube, yes? He has made a point of keeping appraised of what is going on with such a disparate member of the family, so as to know if He should... concern himself with what gets on with them."
"And father has gotten word of your organization's hard times as of late, things are... not so good for you, yes? Your organization is falling apart, members are scattering to the winds..."
"Notails are at the gates with their fire."
James
2024-12-20 21:35:35
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:50:43
"Yes, it is true. But what does he care for a group curing the madness that comes with clockworks? I am sad to say we have no beasts here for him to use......."
James
2024-12-20 21:35:48
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:50:50
"Or...has the other family who shall not be honored with a name been using the clockwork virus as a weapon again?"
"Indeed, Father does not particularly care about what you are doing down here. In fact I doubt father would really care all that much if you decided you fancied being a clockwork yourself."
"In fact I'm fairly sure that father would not be especially bothered if you just so happened to be burned alive by notails, all else being the same."
"More reasons to whine about the arrangments with the Federation I suppose."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:36:55
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:20:35
"But what would bother father so very dearly is the notion that it become public that a member of His family has such a close and intimate relationship with Clockworks, to the point of it becoming, as the Aliens would say, "something of a big deal.""
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:37:07
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:20:57
"Father would rather it not be known that you are associated here, is what I am saying."
James
2024-12-20 21:37:40
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:21:32
"Oh great! So the head of the house has sent his daughter to kill me. How wonderful. I would LOVE to say "It is ok, my name is out of the picture," but I have already tried this by being called by James here."
James
2024-12-20 21:37:49
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:02
"But it is easy to say. Loose lips here and there, eat up the stew. Those bastards."
James
2024-12-20 21:39:24
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Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:06
James opens his bible. "We've been talking about this passage a lot recently......would you like to hear it before you kill me? It might change your mind."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:39:35
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:22:02
"Hmm... If it may bring you solace to whatever end you think you're walking towards, I will allow this."
James
2024-12-20 21:39:49
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:13
"Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God's wrath."
James
2024-12-20 21:39:54
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:20
"For it is written: "Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord." - Romans 12:19"
James
2024-12-20 21:40:05
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:27
"I will not back down from this project. My name will not be washed from it. I will bring shame, should it come to fruition, and your daddy wouldn't like that now would he?"
James
2024-12-20 21:40:13
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:32
"He should be thanking me for my work. So I tell you this now."
James
2024-12-20 21:40:22
James Profile
Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:37
"If you decide to kill me, as your father requests. Know that one day, The Lord will pay back the debt two-fold."
James
2024-12-20 21:40:31
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:41
"If you must kill me, do me at least one pity, and allow me one final drink. Else I may die of thirst first hahaha!"
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:41:05
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Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:45:09
"So be it then." Bellodonna places a hand on her sword, takes a step toward James....
And makes an about face to proceed toward the stairs. "I suppose you will happy to know that I never had any intention of killing you when I visited today."
"It is not by virtue of any love for you or indeed any inclining towards mercy I may have, but rather this."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:41:38
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:22:57
"Know that were I less obliged by the laws of our homeland I would indeed, most likely kill you were stand, if for your impudence than anything."
"Know this as well, that while I leave you here today, my pride satisfied that I have given you your 'out' as the aliens would say, that my Father will not be so charitable, and there are far worse things that He can do than simply kill you."
Bellodonna
2024-12-20 21:42:09
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:23:40
"But nevertheless I have performed my act of 'Charity', and I shall leave you to your malformed beasts. May your blood run black as the night, or as you Christians are fond of saying. "May God Be With You," Cousin." Bellodonna unfurls her wings and makes rapid egress.
James
2024-12-20 21:42:30
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:44:54
"Bellodonna....."
James
2024-12-20 21:42:40
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 14:23:52
"If one day you seek a father who cares for you, instead of one who uses you as a weapon. A tool......."
James
2024-12-20 21:42:48
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Posted by ID #87
Last edit: 2024-12-20 21:51:54
"....know that I have one who will accept you no matter your past, or your future."
James
2024-12-20 21:43:02
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Posted by ID #107
Last edit: 2025-09-19 12:44:47
"Have a wonderful evening, Bellodonna." James blows out the nearest light, allowing the clockworks to roam the basement freely again.
END OF EXPO
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