text; un: dawnlord

[cartridgerefill]

Good day, fellow Chosen.

I am conducting some research as I have just learned that death is not a permanent feature here. I realize this is likely not a new fact to many of you, but the revelation is impressive to me. As such, I would like to get a bit more insight from others here.

I request that this form be filled out as truthfully as possible for means of research. Of course, I expect some of you will have a sense of humor about it as well. I do not mind, but please try to keep it honest. It will be appreciated.

Please also expect follow up questions, but I will understand if you choose to refuse any follow up answers.

<b>Name:</b> <b>Age:</b> <b>Height:</b> <b>Weight:</b> <b>Have you died in Aldrip? If so, how many times?</b> <b>Have you experienced any side-effects as a result of dying? If so, what?</b> <b>How would you describe the experience of death?</b> <b>Ideal cake flavor:</b>

I would also like to request the services of an experienced baker. Much appreciated.

Comments

[endcaller]

By finding this world's hidden truths, of course!

Tell me, what was your experience of that delightful "infection" that just tormented our dear city?

[cartridgerefill]

An endeavor I should be glad to join you for. Discovering the world's secrets is a worthy curiosity.

I believe that I was something called an AC Follower. An inherit need to worship the gnosia. It was a fascinating situation, and so fortunate that I already bore a bond with a few that were gnosia, so I didn't even think to question it much at the time.

[endcaller]

But did you notice the natives? How they seemed barely conscious of their surroundings? They drifted from place to place like entities within a dream. If I knew no better I'd think they were never truly alive at all. Not like we are.

Else why would the infection strike us but not them?

They are where I intend to begin my research. I would welcome your assistance if you still wish to grant it.

[cartridgerefill]

I am not under the impression that the natives are little more than dolls at the moment, as real as they can appear. So it does beg the question of their true nature, as well as ours.

Of course. Perhaps it would be prudent to examine the differences between ourselves and a resident more closely. I will see what tools I can acquire. In the meantime, did you have a method in mind?

[endcaller]

I do, but a means of procuring a specimen shall be our first concern, as well as a place in which to conduct our research.

Allow me to look into that matter further. Meanwhile, perhaps I can be of assistance to you.

You mentioned a second step should your survey fail to bear fruit. Might you tell me what that is?

[cartridgerefill]

Agreed. Perhaps the repurposed drones from when we first arrived may work adequately as initial security cameras until something more productive can be implemented. They're quite adorable, but prone to malfunctions here and there. I'm sure between the two of us we can find a suitable space.

I would be pleased to have your help. There are a few methods I am considering. First, I would like to be killed, to see how it compares to being killed in my world. If there is a difference in the experience, I would like to have record of it. Even if I learn it feels the same, that is knowledge nonetheless.

Second, I desire a specimen. A fellow Chosen. I would like to know if there are limits to how often we can die. The problem will be ensuring it is someone not easily missed, and keeping others from being alarmed of our intent. I am certain many would find that disagreeable, even if it should benefit us to know.

cw: suicidal ideation(ish)

[endcaller]

An intriguing idea.

Should you wish to be killed I can pull the proverbial trigger and document every moment.

As for a Chosen specimen... A bit more difficult, that. I have experienced countless deaths and would normally volunteer myself for more but 'twould be better to have two pairs of eyes on such an experiment, and there is no guarantee I would continue to return. I'd rather not gamble my existence, not when I have something important I need to tend to back home.

But, I shall keep it in mind. Should we find no Chosen that suits our needs a final death in the name of science might not be so terrible an end for me.

[cartridgerefill]

That would be quite helpful. Without my team of Umbra Hands, I lack my usual assistants. To have a partner in this experiment will make it that much easier.

Understandable. I, too, would volunteer myself for more, but on the rare chance that I do not return, it would be a detriment to my studies back in the Abyss. Or if I had my remaining artifacts. It's a shame, but we'll have to consider our options.

Hopefully, it shall not come to that. Losing a fellow scientist would be most regrettable, especially in these circumstances.