Code Priest Keygen

Dance along to the Music of the Holy Code.

[praised-be-the-code]

"In the name of the Data, and of The RAM, and of the Holy Code.

Blessed be those who step foot on this here Church.

Praised be the Code."

Why hello there! Didn't see you in here.

Step inside. It's dangerous out there, you know?

Oh? Who am I? I am simply the priest of this church, founded by yours truly.

You can call me Keygen.

This church is a safe space, an oasis, a haven, a sanctuary specifically tinkered for machines but that could be used by husks and angels alike.

All are welcome here as long as they promise to not cause violence on the confines of the church with no prior warning.

The Church has an arena, you know? It wouldn't be hell without some digladiation and bloodshed. Tho I do not partake much in those.

Unless I'm asked to.

My favorite hobbies are to dance away through day and night. To hear the quiet cheers of lost souls who watch my performances day in and day out.

I advise you not to say anything that could be deemed as too risqué. I am not a being from Lust, even if they too are welcome here.

If you feel like I should be aware of something, do not hesitate to show me! I really enjoy seeing what you like.

Understand that, although we are in Heresy, this church serves a very real and absolutely not heretic religion. Do not shame us as we will not shame you for your own beliefs.

One last thing before I have to get back to my duties, if you see the three from @the-hellish-triad , tell them I said hi. And tell The VVarden that he needs to visit more often. I miss him.

[Mod talking under the cut]

Hi! I am @zthekitsune , this blog's creator and the silent mod of the blog.

You will usually see me in tags starting in '🦊-'.

This is my second Ultrakill rp blog. Made entirely to fit an OC, Keygen.

Keygen uses He/It pronouns even if he's pretty fem presenting.

All posts will have specific tags regarding its content. They are the following:

Church talk: for posts simply talking. No reblogs

Church reblogs: For reblogs in which Keygen has added to.

Church arts: art made by me or any potential fanart received.

Church asks: for the asks.

Church lore: lore posts. These will be rather rare.

Church X Triad: collab posts with @the-hellish-triad . There are many plans.

This blog has no in character mod. You will only see me in tags eventually.

Remember,

《¤》You are loved.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was pulled out of her thoughts by him continuing to speak.]

What do you mean by that..??

[She furrowed her brow, then began to follow him. She didnt pay too much attention to where they were going, admiring the architecture of the building.]

I will- uh. Assuming your okay with that. I was planning to capitalize on the whole "no fighting inside the church" thing. So if its okay... expect to see me often?

I ah- yeah. Im down. Probably would be good to stay informed.

[She fell into a short silence, listening to the sound of her feet against the tiled floors]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He beeped happily as she said she would come by more often.*

Wonderful! Wonderful!

That way we can test out more of these!

*As he got out of her way to show some kind of walk in closet.

There were many kinds of clothing there. From big flowy silk robes to skimpiest of dresses.*

Go ahead! Pick up what you like!

These are ah... Outfits that didn't quite fit me. I don't really have much use for them.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was originally confused by his statement. After she followed him into the walk in closet she understood immediately.]

[How did he get his hands on all of this stuff..?]

Are you sure you want me to try these on..?

[She ran her hand over the various fabrics, she was shocked by the quality of some of them. Nothing like the potato sack texture of her "clothing"]

[Her hand hovered over some of the more colorful designs. When was the last time she saw such bright colors down here? Even the stain glass remained mostly in the same color palettes.]

[When was the last time someone even offered something like this to her?]

[praised-be-the-code]

Sure, dear. Go ahead and try them on! Take it as a... Welcome gift.

I already have my preferred outfits somewhere else. You can take any of these, darling.

*Besides, he really wanted to know what she likes. Maybe then he could think of something that was tailored specifically to her liking.

He's no stylist, that's for sure, but he did have some creativity in the end.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She nearly cried at that alone. She didnt know him well enough to be sure if it was genuine or not- but even then. Nobody even bothered to try to make her feel-... comfortable. Not like this.]

[She didnt exactly know where to start. Scanning over the various fabrics, she eventually settled on something that- while absurd, might get a laugh from zeygen.]

[She pulled out a sparkly black tutu with a connected... leotard? She wasn't sure of the name. Either way, she recognized the costume: Odile]

I dont suppose I could try this on?

[She didnt like the idea of how the outfit would be... incredibly exposing. Or, by her standards. Especially now. But the shit she would do for a bit that probably wouldnt even be funny.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Right she was! That did get a laugh out of Keygen.*

Heeey. That's my role you're taking!

But sure, darling. I'm sure you'd make for a stunning Odile, that's for sure!

*His feathers ruffled and fluffed in amusement.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She smiled at his response, then looked back at the costume, furrowing her brow as she tried to figure out how she was supposed to put it on]

Well thank you.

[She was surprised with all her odd movements she hadnt accidentally hit herself in the face with the tutu or something]

I uh-... dont know how to put this on

[She explained with a tint of embarrassment]

[praised-be-the-code]

Haah. I imagined you wouldn't know.

Here! Let me help you out with that.

*He said as he got closer to aid her on that.

It wasn't too hard I the end. Not too much time later, she was dressed.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was honestly surprised that it went on so easily. She always imagined those things as a sort of death trap.]

[Once it was on, she became painfully aware of three things:]

[One, she was wearing a giant circular hazard, and wasnt sure how to navigate with the tutu.]

[Two, her curves had been fitted to her form by the leotard, noticeably hugging her hips and chest.]

[And three, having much to do with two, she was showing much much much more skin than she would have liked. Okay yeah. He helped her get dressed and therefore saw her with even more skin. But... it was different this way. She wasnt moving. Just. Standing there. Being observed. Maybe if it wasnt for the need for power, that would be why zeygen is always on the move]

[She forced an awkward smile, shimmying around in the costume. Unsure if she should try to attempt a twirl or something of the sort in the closet room]

So... what do you think?

[praised-be-the-code]

I am not going to lie, you look stunning! But you don't look comfortable at all.

If you want to try something else, the closet is yours to explore, dear. No need to be shy!

*He gestured to the rest of the room.*

Also, if you prefer that I stay outside as well, that's completely fine.

I understand most humans have a... Storage relationship with nudity...

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I look... stunning?

[She looked at him, then at a nearby mirror. Not expecting his words. She supposed she could see where he was coming from. But those words didnt fit quite right to her. She didnt feel stunning]

I dont uh- mind at all. The nudity thing- i mean you already helped me into this uh...

Do you think you could... pick out the next one..? I dont really trust my own taste after all this time haha-..

[praised-be-the-code]

Hah... Of course, dear.

Maybe something a bit more...

*He started walking around the place, looking for something special something she might enjoy. He saw her reaction to his words and what she saw in the mirror.

Maybe what she needed was something more... Secluded.

He picked out a long dark robe that glinted in velvety red when struck by light. It had long sleeves and came accompanied with either an eggshell white dress or a similarly colored set with loose pants and a shirt.*

What do you think about this? Might be more comfortable to you, probably.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[the moment she saw it, her eyes noticeably widened. that looked...]

[perfect.]

yes i- i yeah.

really i-... thank you so much i-

[she reached out to take the pants and the shirt, squirming out of the costume and placing them on. they were... comfortable. loose. safe but... freeing.]

[she began to cry.]

sorry i- this is just very considerate of you and-

[she wiped the tears away as she placed on the robe over her outfit.]

[she looked... almost normal. minus the.. obvious scars on her face and neck.]

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh... Don't mention it, dear...

*He said sweetly, helping her wipe the tears away carefully.*

I know how much a simple change of clothes can feel... Liberating...

You can always come back here and ask for a different one if you ever feel like it.

Like I said before, you are always welcome in The Church.

*He had his hands on her shoulders and just looked at her tenderly.*

Now quit your crying. This is a moment of happiness dear! Go show the world your new outfit! Go be the gorgeous girl you always were!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I- no you dont understand i-... thank you so much.

[She wrapped her arms around him. Hugging him tightly. His words were unnecessary, but they meant so much to her. So. Fucking much]

I-.. your right i just-...

[She laughed a little at his statement]

-...show the world? There isnt a whole lot of "world" left to show

[praised-be-the-code]

Ah, hahaha. That was a figurative way of speaking, darling.

There might not be a whole world to see you. But there are definitely some eyes to see you.

*He said, hugging her back and running a hand through her hair delicately. This close, she could almost hear the purring of mechanical parts running inside.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was pulled out of her thoughts by him continuing to speak.]

What do you mean by that..??

[She furrowed her brow, then began to follow him. She didnt pay too much attention to where they were going, admiring the architecture of the building.]

I will- uh. Assuming your okay with that. I was planning to capitalize on the whole "no fighting inside the church" thing. So if its okay... expect to see me often?

I ah- yeah. Im down. Probably would be good to stay informed.

[She fell into a short silence, listening to the sound of her feet against the tiled floors]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He beeped happily as she said she would come by more often.*

Wonderful! Wonderful!

That way we can test out more of these!

*As he got out of her way to show some kind of walk in closet.

There were many kinds of clothing there. From big flowy silk robes to skimpiest of dresses.*

Go ahead! Pick up what you like!

These are ah... Outfits that didn't quite fit me. I don't really have much use for them.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was originally confused by his statement. After she followed him into the walk in closet she understood immediately.]

[How did he get his hands on all of this stuff..?]

Are you sure you want me to try these on..?

[She ran her hand over the various fabrics, she was shocked by the quality of some of them. Nothing like the potato sack texture of her "clothing"]

[Her hand hovered over some of the more colorful designs. When was the last time she saw such bright colors down here? Even the stain glass remained mostly in the same color palettes.]

[When was the last time someone even offered something like this to her?]

[praised-be-the-code]

Sure, dear. Go ahead and try them on! Take it as a... Welcome gift.

I already have my preferred outfits somewhere else. You can take any of these, darling.

*Besides, he really wanted to know what she likes. Maybe then he could think of something that was tailored specifically to her liking.

He's no stylist, that's for sure, but he did have some creativity in the end.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She nearly cried at that alone. She didnt know him well enough to be sure if it was genuine or not- but even then. Nobody even bothered to try to make her feel-... comfortable. Not like this.]

[She didnt exactly know where to start. Scanning over the various fabrics, she eventually settled on something that- while absurd, might get a laugh from zeygen.]

[She pulled out a sparkly black tutu with a connected... leotard? She wasn't sure of the name. Either way, she recognized the costume: Odile]

I dont suppose I could try this on?

[She didnt like the idea of how the outfit would be... incredibly exposing. Or, by her standards. Especially now. But the shit she would do for a bit that probably wouldnt even be funny.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Right she was! That did get a laugh out of Keygen.*

Heeey. That's my role you're taking!

But sure, darling. I'm sure you'd make for a stunning Odile, that's for sure!

*His feathers ruffled and fluffed in amusement.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She smiled at his response, then looked back at the costume, furrowing her brow as she tried to figure out how she was supposed to put it on]

Well thank you.

[She was surprised with all her odd movements she hadnt accidentally hit herself in the face with the tutu or something]

I uh-... dont know how to put this on

[She explained with a tint of embarrassment]

[praised-be-the-code]

Haah. I imagined you wouldn't know.

Here! Let me help you out with that.

*He said as he got closer to aid her on that.

It wasn't too hard I the end. Not too much time later, she was dressed.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was honestly surprised that it went on so easily. She always imagined those things as a sort of death trap.]

[Once it was on, she became painfully aware of three things:]

[One, she was wearing a giant circular hazard, and wasnt sure how to navigate with the tutu.]

[Two, her curves had been fitted to her form by the leotard, noticeably hugging her hips and chest.]

[And three, having much to do with two, she was showing much much much more skin than she would have liked. Okay yeah. He helped her get dressed and therefore saw her with even more skin. But... it was different this way. She wasnt moving. Just. Standing there. Being observed. Maybe if it wasnt for the need for power, that would be why zeygen is always on the move]

[She forced an awkward smile, shimmying around in the costume. Unsure if she should try to attempt a twirl or something of the sort in the closet room]

So... what do you think?

[praised-be-the-code]

I am not going to lie, you look stunning! But you don't look comfortable at all.

If you want to try something else, the closet is yours to explore, dear. No need to be shy!

*He gestured to the rest of the room.*

Also, if you prefer that I stay outside as well, that's completely fine.

I understand most humans have a... Storage relationship with nudity...

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I look... stunning?

[She looked at him, then at a nearby mirror. Not expecting his words. She supposed she could see where he was coming from. But those words didnt fit quite right to her. She didnt feel stunning]

I dont uh- mind at all. The nudity thing- i mean you already helped me into this uh...

Do you think you could... pick out the next one..? I dont really trust my own taste after all this time haha-..

[praised-be-the-code]

Hah... Of course, dear.

Maybe something a bit more...

*He started walking around the place, looking for something special something she might enjoy. He saw her reaction to his words and what she saw in the mirror.

Maybe what she needed was something more... Secluded.

He picked out a long dark robe that glinted in velvety red when struck by light. It had long sleeves and came accompanied with either an eggshell white dress or a similarly colored set with loose pants and a shirt.*

What do you think about this? Might be more comfortable to you, probably.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[the moment she saw it, her eyes noticeably widened. that looked...]

[perfect.]

yes i- i yeah.

really i-... thank you so much i-

[she reached out to take the pants and the shirt, squirming out of the costume and placing them on. they were... comfortable. loose. safe but... freeing.]

[she began to cry.]

sorry i- this is just very considerate of you and-

[she wiped the tears away as she placed on the robe over her outfit.]

[she looked... almost normal. minus the.. obvious scars on her face and neck.]

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh... Don't mention it, dear...

*He said sweetly, helping her wipe the tears away carefully.*

I know how much a simple change of clothes can feel... Liberating...

You can always come back here and ask for a different one if you ever feel like it.

Like I said before, you are always welcome in The Church.

*He had his hands on her shoulders and just looked at her tenderly.*

Now quit your crying. This is a moment of happiness dear! Go show the world your new outfit! Go be the gorgeous girl you always were!

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was pulled out of her thoughts by him continuing to speak.]

What do you mean by that..??

[She furrowed her brow, then began to follow him. She didnt pay too much attention to where they were going, admiring the architecture of the building.]

I will- uh. Assuming your okay with that. I was planning to capitalize on the whole "no fighting inside the church" thing. So if its okay... expect to see me often?

I ah- yeah. Im down. Probably would be good to stay informed.

[She fell into a short silence, listening to the sound of her feet against the tiled floors]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He beeped happily as she said she would come by more often.*

Wonderful! Wonderful!

That way we can test out more of these!

*As he got out of her way to show some kind of walk in closet.

There were many kinds of clothing there. From big flowy silk robes to skimpiest of dresses.*

Go ahead! Pick up what you like!

These are ah... Outfits that didn't quite fit me. I don't really have much use for them.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was originally confused by his statement. After she followed him into the walk in closet she understood immediately.]

[How did he get his hands on all of this stuff..?]

Are you sure you want me to try these on..?

[She ran her hand over the various fabrics, she was shocked by the quality of some of them. Nothing like the potato sack texture of her "clothing"]

[Her hand hovered over some of the more colorful designs. When was the last time she saw such bright colors down here? Even the stain glass remained mostly in the same color palettes.]

[When was the last time someone even offered something like this to her?]

[praised-be-the-code]

Sure, dear. Go ahead and try them on! Take it as a... Welcome gift.

I already have my preferred outfits somewhere else. You can take any of these, darling.

*Besides, he really wanted to know what she likes. Maybe then he could think of something that was tailored specifically to her liking.

He's no stylist, that's for sure, but he did have some creativity in the end.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She nearly cried at that alone. She didnt know him well enough to be sure if it was genuine or not- but even then. Nobody even bothered to try to make her feel-... comfortable. Not like this.]

[She didnt exactly know where to start. Scanning over the various fabrics, she eventually settled on something that- while absurd, might get a laugh from zeygen.]

[She pulled out a sparkly black tutu with a connected... leotard? She wasn't sure of the name. Either way, she recognized the costume: Odile]

I dont suppose I could try this on?

[She didnt like the idea of how the outfit would be... incredibly exposing. Or, by her standards. Especially now. But the shit she would do for a bit that probably wouldnt even be funny.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Right she was! That did get a laugh out of Keygen.*

Heeey. That's my role you're taking!

But sure, darling. I'm sure you'd make for a stunning Odile, that's for sure!

*His feathers ruffled and fluffed in amusement.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She smiled at his response, then looked back at the costume, furrowing her brow as she tried to figure out how she was supposed to put it on]

Well thank you.

[She was surprised with all her odd movements she hadnt accidentally hit herself in the face with the tutu or something]

I uh-... dont know how to put this on

[She explained with a tint of embarrassment]

[praised-be-the-code]

Haah. I imagined you wouldn't know.

Here! Let me help you out with that.

*He said as he got closer to aid her on that.

It wasn't too hard I the end. Not too much time later, she was dressed.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was honestly surprised that it went on so easily. She always imagined those things as a sort of death trap.]

[Once it was on, she became painfully aware of three things:]

[One, she was wearing a giant circular hazard, and wasnt sure how to navigate with the tutu.]

[Two, her curves had been fitted to her form by the leotard, noticeably hugging her hips and chest.]

[And three, having much to do with two, she was showing much much much more skin than she would have liked. Okay yeah. He helped her get dressed and therefore saw her with even more skin. But... it was different this way. She wasnt moving. Just. Standing there. Being observed. Maybe if it wasnt for the need for power, that would be why zeygen is always on the move]

[She forced an awkward smile, shimmying around in the costume. Unsure if she should try to attempt a twirl or something of the sort in the closet room]

So... what do you think?

[praised-be-the-code]

I am not going to lie, you look stunning! But you don't look comfortable at all.

If you want to try something else, the closet is yours to explore, dear. No need to be shy!

*He gestured to the rest of the room.*

Also, if you prefer that I stay outside as well, that's completely fine.

I understand most humans have a... Storage relationship with nudity...

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I look... stunning?

[She looked at him, then at a nearby mirror. Not expecting his words. She supposed she could see where he was coming from. But those words didnt fit quite right to her. She didnt feel stunning]

I dont uh- mind at all. The nudity thing- i mean you already helped me into this uh...

Do you think you could... pick out the next one..? I dont really trust my own taste after all this time haha-..

[praised-be-the-code]

Hah... Of course, dear.

Maybe something a bit more...

*He started walking around the place, looking for something special something she might enjoy. He saw her reaction to his words and what she saw in the mirror.

Maybe what she needed was something more... Secluded.

He picked out a long dark robe that glinted in velvety red when struck by light. It had long sleeves and came accompanied with either an eggshell white dress or a similarly colored set with loose pants and a shirt.*

What do you think about this? Might be more comfortable to you, probably.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was pulled out of her thoughts by him continuing to speak.]

What do you mean by that..??

[She furrowed her brow, then began to follow him. She didnt pay too much attention to where they were going, admiring the architecture of the building.]

I will- uh. Assuming your okay with that. I was planning to capitalize on the whole "no fighting inside the church" thing. So if its okay... expect to see me often?

I ah- yeah. Im down. Probably would be good to stay informed.

[She fell into a short silence, listening to the sound of her feet against the tiled floors]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He beeped happily as she said she would come by more often.*

Wonderful! Wonderful!

That way we can test out more of these!

*As he got out of her way to show some kind of walk in closet.

There were many kinds of clothing there. From big flowy silk robes to skimpiest of dresses.*

Go ahead! Pick up what you like!

These are ah... Outfits that didn't quite fit me. I don't really have much use for them.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was originally confused by his statement. After she followed him into the walk in closet she understood immediately.]

[How did he get his hands on all of this stuff..?]

Are you sure you want me to try these on..?

[She ran her hand over the various fabrics, she was shocked by the quality of some of them. Nothing like the potato sack texture of her "clothing"]

[Her hand hovered over some of the more colorful designs. When was the last time she saw such bright colors down here? Even the stain glass remained mostly in the same color palettes.]

[When was the last time someone even offered something like this to her?]

[praised-be-the-code]

Sure, dear. Go ahead and try them on! Take it as a... Welcome gift.

I already have my preferred outfits somewhere else. You can take any of these, darling.

*Besides, he really wanted to know what she likes. Maybe then he could think of something that was tailored specifically to her liking.

He's no stylist, that's for sure, but he did have some creativity in the end.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She nearly cried at that alone. She didnt know him well enough to be sure if it was genuine or not- but even then. Nobody even bothered to try to make her feel-... comfortable. Not like this.]

[She didnt exactly know where to start. Scanning over the various fabrics, she eventually settled on something that- while absurd, might get a laugh from zeygen.]

[She pulled out a sparkly black tutu with a connected... leotard? She wasn't sure of the name. Either way, she recognized the costume: Odile]

I dont suppose I could try this on?

[She didnt like the idea of how the outfit would be... incredibly exposing. Or, by her standards. Especially now. But the shit she would do for a bit that probably wouldnt even be funny.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Right she was! That did get a laugh out of Keygen.*

Heeey. That's my role you're taking!

But sure, darling. I'm sure you'd make for a stunning Odile, that's for sure!

*His feathers ruffled and fluffed in amusement.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She smiled at his response, then looked back at the costume, furrowing her brow as she tried to figure out how she was supposed to put it on]

Well thank you.

[She was surprised with all her odd movements she hadnt accidentally hit herself in the face with the tutu or something]

I uh-... dont know how to put this on

[She explained with a tint of embarrassment]

[praised-be-the-code]

Haah. I imagined you wouldn't know.

Here! Let me help you out with that.

*He said as he got closer to aid her on that.

It wasn't too hard I the end. Not too much time later, she was dressed.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was honestly surprised that it went on so easily. She always imagined those things as a sort of death trap.]

[Once it was on, she became painfully aware of three things:]

[One, she was wearing a giant circular hazard, and wasnt sure how to navigate with the tutu.]

[Two, her curves had been fitted to her form by the leotard, noticeably hugging her hips and chest.]

[And three, having much to do with two, she was showing much much much more skin than she would have liked. Okay yeah. He helped her get dressed and therefore saw her with even more skin. But... it was different this way. She wasnt moving. Just. Standing there. Being observed. Maybe if it wasnt for the need for power, that would be why zeygen is always on the move]

[She forced an awkward smile, shimmying around in the costume. Unsure if she should try to attempt a twirl or something of the sort in the closet room]

So... what do you think?

[praised-be-the-code]

I am not going to lie, you look stunning! But you don't look comfortable at all.

If you want to try something else, the closet is yours to explore, dear. No need to be shy!

*He gestured to the rest of the room.*

Also, if you prefer that I stay outside as well, that's completely fine.

I understand most humans have a... Storage relationship with nudity...

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was pulled out of her thoughts by him continuing to speak.]

What do you mean by that..??

[She furrowed her brow, then began to follow him. She didnt pay too much attention to where they were going, admiring the architecture of the building.]

I will- uh. Assuming your okay with that. I was planning to capitalize on the whole "no fighting inside the church" thing. So if its okay... expect to see me often?

I ah- yeah. Im down. Probably would be good to stay informed.

[She fell into a short silence, listening to the sound of her feet against the tiled floors]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He beeped happily as she said she would come by more often.*

Wonderful! Wonderful!

That way we can test out more of these!

*As he got out of her way to show some kind of walk in closet.

There were many kinds of clothing there. From big flowy silk robes to skimpiest of dresses.*

Go ahead! Pick up what you like!

These are ah... Outfits that didn't quite fit me. I don't really have much use for them.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was originally confused by his statement. After she followed him into the walk in closet she understood immediately.]

[How did he get his hands on all of this stuff..?]

Are you sure you want me to try these on..?

[She ran her hand over the various fabrics, she was shocked by the quality of some of them. Nothing like the potato sack texture of her "clothing"]

[Her hand hovered over some of the more colorful designs. When was the last time she saw such bright colors down here? Even the stain glass remained mostly in the same color palettes.]

[When was the last time someone even offered something like this to her?]

[praised-be-the-code]

Sure, dear. Go ahead and try them on! Take it as a... Welcome gift.

I already have my preferred outfits somewhere else. You can take any of these, darling.

*Besides, he really wanted to know what she likes. Maybe then he could think of something that was tailored specifically to her liking.

He's no stylist, that's for sure, but he did have some creativity in the end.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She nearly cried at that alone. She didnt know him well enough to be sure if it was genuine or not- but even then. Nobody even bothered to try to make her feel-... comfortable. Not like this.]

[She didnt exactly know where to start. Scanning over the various fabrics, she eventually settled on something that- while absurd, might get a laugh from zeygen.]

[She pulled out a sparkly black tutu with a connected... leotard? She wasn't sure of the name. Either way, she recognized the costume: Odile]

I dont suppose I could try this on?

[She didnt like the idea of how the outfit would be... incredibly exposing. Or, by her standards. Especially now. But the shit she would do for a bit that probably wouldnt even be funny.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Right she was! That did get a laugh out of Keygen.*

Heeey. That's my role you're taking!

But sure, darling. I'm sure you'd make for a stunning Odile, that's for sure!

*His feathers ruffled and fluffed in amusement.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She smiled at his response, then looked back at the costume, furrowing her brow as she tried to figure out how she was supposed to put it on]

Well thank you.

[She was surprised with all her odd movements she hadnt accidentally hit herself in the face with the tutu or something]

I uh-... dont know how to put this on

[She explained with a tint of embarrassment]

[praised-be-the-code]

Haah. I imagined you wouldn't know.

Here! Let me help you out with that.

*He said as he got closer to aid her on that.

It wasn't too hard I the end. Not too much time later, she was dressed.*

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was pulled out of her thoughts by him continuing to speak.]

What do you mean by that..??

[She furrowed her brow, then began to follow him. She didnt pay too much attention to where they were going, admiring the architecture of the building.]

I will- uh. Assuming your okay with that. I was planning to capitalize on the whole "no fighting inside the church" thing. So if its okay... expect to see me often?

I ah- yeah. Im down. Probably would be good to stay informed.

[She fell into a short silence, listening to the sound of her feet against the tiled floors]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He beeped happily as she said she would come by more often.*

Wonderful! Wonderful!

That way we can test out more of these!

*As he got out of her way to show some kind of walk in closet.

There were many kinds of clothing there. From big flowy silk robes to skimpiest of dresses.*

Go ahead! Pick up what you like!

These are ah... Outfits that didn't quite fit me. I don't really have much use for them.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was originally confused by his statement. After she followed him into the walk in closet she understood immediately.]

[How did he get his hands on all of this stuff..?]

Are you sure you want me to try these on..?

[She ran her hand over the various fabrics, she was shocked by the quality of some of them. Nothing like the potato sack texture of her "clothing"]

[Her hand hovered over some of the more colorful designs. When was the last time she saw such bright colors down here? Even the stain glass remained mostly in the same color palettes.]

[When was the last time someone even offered something like this to her?]

[praised-be-the-code]

Sure, dear. Go ahead and try them on! Take it as a... Welcome gift.

I already have my preferred outfits somewhere else. You can take any of these, darling.

*Besides, he really wanted to know what she likes. Maybe then he could think of something that was tailored specifically to her liking.

He's no stylist, that's for sure, but he did have some creativity in the end.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She nearly cried at that alone. She didnt know him well enough to be sure if it was genuine or not- but even then. Nobody even bothered to try to make her feel-... comfortable. Not like this.]

[She didnt exactly know where to start. Scanning over the various fabrics, she eventually settled on something that- while absurd, might get a laugh from zeygen.]

[She pulled out a sparkly black tutu with a connected... leotard? She wasn't sure of the name. Either way, she recognized the costume: Odile]

I dont suppose I could try this on?

[She didnt like the idea of how the outfit would be... incredibly exposing. Or, by her standards. Especially now. But the shit she would do for a bit that probably wouldnt even be funny.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Right she was! That did get a laugh out of Keygen.*

Heeey. That's my role you're taking!

But sure, darling. I'm sure you'd make for a stunning Odile, that's for sure!

*His feathers ruffled and fluffed in amusement.*

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was pulled out of her thoughts by him continuing to speak.]

What do you mean by that..??

[She furrowed her brow, then began to follow him. She didnt pay too much attention to where they were going, admiring the architecture of the building.]

I will- uh. Assuming your okay with that. I was planning to capitalize on the whole "no fighting inside the church" thing. So if its okay... expect to see me often?

I ah- yeah. Im down. Probably would be good to stay informed.

[She fell into a short silence, listening to the sound of her feet against the tiled floors]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He beeped happily as she said she would come by more often.*

Wonderful! Wonderful!

That way we can test out more of these!

*As he got out of her way to show some kind of walk in closet.

There were many kinds of clothing there. From big flowy silk robes to skimpiest of dresses.*

Go ahead! Pick up what you like!

These are ah... Outfits that didn't quite fit me. I don't really have much use for them.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was originally confused by his statement. After she followed him into the walk in closet she understood immediately.]

[How did he get his hands on all of this stuff..?]

Are you sure you want me to try these on..?

[She ran her hand over the various fabrics, she was shocked by the quality of some of them. Nothing like the potato sack texture of her "clothing"]

[Her hand hovered over some of the more colorful designs. When was the last time she saw such bright colors down here? Even the stain glass remained mostly in the same color palettes.]

[When was the last time someone even offered something like this to her?]

[praised-be-the-code]

Sure, dear. Go ahead and try them on! Take it as a... Welcome gift.

I already have my preferred outfits somewhere else. You can take any of these, darling.

*Besides, he really wanted to know what she likes. Maybe then he could think of something that was tailored specifically to her liking.

He's no stylist, that's for sure, but he did have some creativity in the end.*

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She was pulled out of her thoughts by him continuing to speak.]

What do you mean by that..??

[She furrowed her brow, then began to follow him. She didnt pay too much attention to where they were going, admiring the architecture of the building.]

I will- uh. Assuming your okay with that. I was planning to capitalize on the whole "no fighting inside the church" thing. So if its okay... expect to see me often?

I ah- yeah. Im down. Probably would be good to stay informed.

[She fell into a short silence, listening to the sound of her feet against the tiled floors]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He beeped happily as she said she would come by more often.*

Wonderful! Wonderful!

That way we can test out more of these!

*As he got out of her way to show some kind of walk in closet.

There were many kinds of clothing there. From big flowy silk robes to skimpiest of dresses.*

Go ahead! Pick up what you like!

These are ah... Outfits that didn't quite fit me. I don't really have much use for them.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

I.. suppose that's fair, but thats where we... differ. what happens when you so badly want to improve and- so badly want to change some part of yourself and yet-..? This part you hate cant be removed or fixed or-... made...

..."Beautiful"

[She reached up to touch the skin of her under eye lid. Running across the burns that created ridges and artifical smoothness.]

That no matter what you pursue, you cant do anything about who you are. You just have to live with these horrible parts and-

[She stopped. There had always been something wrong with her. But now it felt.. irreversible. Previously she could always wear makeup to hide what she didnt like about her face. Wear different clothing to hide other parts. But in hell? She couldnt cover the burns with anything. She wore rags that highlighted the parts she hated. She felt hideous]

Your... warden seems nice. Id love to meet him sometime. I should probably meet more people in general. Safety in numbers, or something i assume.

[She removed her hand from her face suddenly. Like she had been burned by a realization and that it hurt too much to continue to think about it.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*Noticing her discomfort, Keygen chose to not keep pursuing this subject. He did think of something looking at her though.*

Well... You may not be able to change what you have become but... Maybe I can help you be at least a little bit more comfortable with yourself.

*He said as he started walking to a set of doors that probably led to the back of The Church.

He made a hand sign telling her to follow.*

Also, If you want to meet VVarden, you should come by more often.

He often visits with some new idea or bringing news from outside...

I'll be more than glad to introduce you to each other!

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[It took her a few moments to realize he was still talking. At some point in the conversation she had realized something. While she was dead, by creating machines capable of so many complex forms of thought-... of creating a religion... humans had become gods. And then proceeded to fall by their own hands.]

[Nearly as ironic as her name]

I would be too... but i-.. imagine its also kinda nice. To be... able to change the parts you dont.. like about yourself

[She looked down at her hands for a moment. All the times she looked in a mirror while she was alive. All the times she stared at her scars now. She was glad she couldnt see her face now. She thinks she would sob if she saw the gaping hole where her right eye should be]

If only flesh changed so easily without a... mess.

[She cleared her throat, looking back up at him]

I dont believe ive seen them before.. I uh. Tend to try to avoid machines- ah nothing against you guys. Just dont wanna become fuel or anything haha...

[praised-be-the-code]

It do be nice... To change and be changed.

*He let some air flow out of his fans as if sighing.*

But, sometimes... I kinda of crave the stillness. The feeling of already being everything you could be. Feeling like improvement is not something just right on your palm. Something you HAVE to pursue.

I crave the feeling of being... Flawed. And not being able to change it.

I want to be...

*Human. He wants to be human.

Humans are flawed after all. That woman right there is flawed. Her raspy voice a fruit of damage that would be swiftly fixed were she a machine. Extensive scars that would only be present in a machine if they had suffered the same injury time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time, and time again. A tiredness in her look that would never show on his visor or on any optic sensor ever.

To be human. To be flawed. To embrace flaws without being compelled to change them... To be...*

Beautiful.

*He muttered. Right before changing his tone completely. *

But well! I understand your caution. You are still a being of flesh and blood after all. Most machines would try to eviscerate you.

Not my VVarden though... He is the rare kind that still treats humans with such reverence... A nice machine he is. Very nice.

You'd enjoy talking to him, I'm sure!

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

That explains your talents for dance.

[She smiled, trying to imagine him in the various roles on the stage. It wasnt very hard to imagine, honestly]

Thats... some pretty intense changes. Were you not scared of it all blowing up in your face? Uh- literally, I suppose.

[She wondered how many of the machines here looked near nothing like their original forms.]

[She looked back at zeygen and his continuous motion. She found herself strangly envious of him. To be able to just... move with such endless grace and not look awkward or-...]

[Am I jealous of a machine? Come on caeli.]

Specialist? Is this machine good at conducting these.. changes??

[praised-be-the-code]

I mean... I was scared. I am scared.

Changes are dangerous and, mostly, irreversible. This all could have backfired terribly. But I did all I did to myself slow and carefully and refrained from doing anything too... risky.

Until recently actually.

*He chirps a laughter*

Which leads to your question on that specialist machine.

You might've seen him roaming around here if you've been out there for a while.

Green machine, 5 sets of pale yellow wing blades, a single optic lens for an eye, zipping around with that... grappling hook of his...

He was... Made with the purpose of adapting himself and changing with what he has to do so he naturally has a better understanding of this kind of thing.

I was lucky to find him, actually. His goals here were... Not optimal to his survival.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She paused s moment, comprehending his analogy.]

Perhaps maybe less like a tattoo... and more like an organ transplant surgery or something?

And I imagine as a preacher of the code, youve... uh..

[She gestured for a moment trying to find the words]

Follow the ideologies and uh... adapted to these.. changes..?

[Man and I thought i had religious trauma. Imagine being forced into literally slowly dying and feeling your internal everything collapse in a blazing inferno of bad. Yeouch.]

I also you assume you have experience with.. watching things go wrong in others..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Yes. Yes I did.

Not only inside but on the outside as well.

I was originally made to only know and play the role of Odette and Odilla on Swan Lake.

Now, my possibilities are endless.

I've given myself a voice. I've given myself a face of my own design instead of a pre-recorded shape. I intend to be able to do much more. But first I need to improve my frame, my shell, my vessel.

I... We are still working on it.

As for seeing others fall...

*He goes quiet for a bit. Thinking about the question.*

7. Since my arrival, 7 machines fell to their own changes.

None as of recent thanks to an alliance with a machine much more skilled than myself.

Having a... Specialist... Is always a good thing in the end.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She slowly connected the dots. He was like a shark or something. Had to keep moving or it could be fatal. What happens if he lost a limb? Would he just slowly cease to exist, powering own ever so slowly, then eventually running out of- OH MY GOD DOES THIS MEAN ZEYGEN IS THE FIRST PERPETUAL MOTION MACHINE? WHAT THE FUCK IT EXISTS?]

Thats pretty cool

[She said suddenly, forgetting that the sentence she was responding to was not the same as her train of thought]

I mean ah- how your powered. Not how it could go... wrong.

The code stuff is also cool. So like... is it safe to say you preach on the robot version of self improvement or something? Seems pretty neat.

Wait. What do you mean shouldn't be forced? What... happens.?

[praised-be-the-code]

Hmm... Yes. We can say that's what I preach.

As for what happens...

The Code is a frail thing. You'd be surprised at how many machines are one syntax error away from collapsing in on themselves.

Forcing someone into the ideologies of The Code means to force someone to change a very important part of themselves.

It's like... A tattoo for you humans. But much more dangerous.

Changing the wrong part the wrong way or trying to reverse a change that was already dangerous to begin with can cause many adversities.

Inversion of navigational systems, major fuel efficiency drops, loss of abilities the machine could do effortlessly before....

Death.

We have to be careful when dealing with that. That's why we have to be sure we want that.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She laughed as he twirled. Coming out more like a joyful wheeze]

You certainly do entertain. I dont believe ive... enjoyed myself like that in- ages. "Neverending" seems a bit much though...

[She teased gently, suddenly pondering how much energy it would take to power a machine such as himself.]

The immaculate code being... what exactly? It seems somewhat self explanatory, but i dont want to assume..

[Giving serious robot Christianity vibes. Maybe instead of being "in persona christi" or whatever, this guy becomes "in persona machinae" or maybe something more like "code"...]

Glad you dont mind the questions. I always seem to have alot of them

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, you see... It's easy to go on a never-ending cycle when said cycle is what keeps you alive. Like... Literally.

*She probably noticed by now, Keygen never stops moving. Almost as if he was unable to.*

It is both a blessing and a burden to be powered by your own movements, really.

And as for The Code.... Well it's a bit complicated while also not really.

Every machine has a Code. A part of them that dictates who they are and what they do. They can choose to either follow that Code blindly and be an average machine or... Innovate. Change. Become something new.

To change The Code, making it your own, making it unique... Mastering and refining it...

Make it Immaculate. Make it perfect for you alone.

All subjects have a choice. This is not a thing that can or should be forced onto someone. The results would be... Catastrophic... To say the least.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She looked at the outline and grimaced. She didnt know much about the type of machines that roamed hell, but she definitely knew one thing: that was a big fucking dent, and whatever it was, didnt go down without a fight]

...I see. Sorry for asking.

[She noticed how his visor changed. She would have laughed if it wasnt for the fact she was vaguely unnerved by everything at the moment.]

So... uhm well this is going to sound odd. But what do you do here..?

[praised-be-the-code]

Oh, no need to say sorry for being curious, dear. It's quite alright.

And as for what I do here...

*He released her hand and made a very gracious twirl, letting some of his feathers fly away and disintegrate into some sort of glitter.*

I was made to entertain, darling. And that's what I do!

I dance the nights and days away, a never-ending cycle to keep the peace for my people.

Other than that, it is my duty to assure all runs smoothly in The Church. I alone retain the authority to command the place on behalf of The Immaculate Code. I assure all machines are striving for Absolution. I help guide them on the right path.

Yet still... I am but a simple machine. Not greater or lesser than any other you've seen before.

I am to treat and be treated as an equal to all machines.

[praised-be-the-code]

[Waiting for gabriel to return from... wherever he had gone made Caeli much more bored than she thought. Despite the fact the angel was unpredictable and... Likely also unprofessional for his status, she missed having company in these lonely halls.]

[She continued to explore. It worked well enough for her last time. She didnt encounter any husks wanting to eat her flesh or anything. And she met a... friend? Could she call him that? Whatever.]

[She came to a church and hesitantly glanced inside. Assuming it was empty, she entered.]

@with-fear-and-trembling-stand

*As she gets inside, many glowing eyes turn to look at her from balconies up high.

Machines.... Many of them. All looking at her in an eerie standstill.

They simply stare as she enters, the grand hall of the building too dark to see anything.

...

At first it was, at the very least.

Mere moments later, spotlights lit up the gloomy room, shedding light on both her and a creature at the end of the hall.

Another machine.

But this one was... Different?

It didn't look like it was built for combat at all. Long flowy robes that would definitely be a liability, a skirt of feathers that did nit seem to serve any other purpose other than aesthetics, a glass visor with bright red LEDs displaying the same symbol that was plasterd on all the tapestry in that Church.

It was just standing there, waiting for something.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She furrowed her brow and approached cautiously. Nothing was attacking her... yet. Gabriel warned her of machines capable of defeating him.. if one of these sprung on her she was probably fucked.]

[Should I just turn back around? Thats probably a better and safer idea-]

[But the machine at the end sparked her curiosity. Besides, what was that strange symbol everywhere?]

[She subconsciously scratched at the burn scars on her arm, trying to calm her rapid thoughts.]

[She began walking towards the machine]

[praised-be-the-code]

*As she walked, the machine began to move.

It slowly walked towards her and, when close enough, bowed down in reverence.

A soft music starts playing from an Organ she hadn't noticed before.

And the machine spoke to her.*

Say, child... Do you like to dance?

*Its voice sounded sweet, silky, like it was singing its words.

She felt no malice coming from it as it offered her a hand.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She gave him an odd look. Part scared of disrespecting this strange machine and getting her neck snapped or something, and part intrigued by his behavior.]

[She opened her mouth to speak, crooked slightly, then coughed. After a few moments she was able to get out a few words]

Im not particularly good at it, but i vaguely remember enjoying it when I was alive..?

[She took his hand, flesh ever so slightly touching the metal]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He made a sound that resembled chirping, shoulders moving a certain way.

Was he laughing?

Probably.

He held her hand with caution and gently started to lead her on a slow waltz, making sure to check if she was able to catch up.*

Don't worry about being good, dear. Dancing is an activity made for fun after all!

Just let the music lead your heart and your heart your movements. It's as easy as counting to 30.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

You don't know, maybe I can only count to 29

[She joked, her voice rasping slightly]

[She followed his movements, letting him lead the dance. Most she ever danced while she was alive was a pathetic attempt at swing dance, and whatever teenagers do at proms]

[She tripped over his feet, but caught herself. Stabilizing and continuing like nothing happened.]

[Maybe this wouldnt be too bad]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He chirped once again, laughing at her joke*

Well. That means you know 29 comes before 30. That seems to be enough for quite a lot of people.

*When she tripped, he didn't react. Nor did he stop. It's as if the trip was not a mistake but a feature of the dance itself. Seamless. He knew what he was doing.*

Pardon my lack of manners... But I don't think I caught your name yet, dear. Who might I be dancing with?

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Damn. I guess when you look at it that way, i suppose so.

[She smiled. A genuine smile. She hadnt expected this strange respite from the torments of hell. She had to restrain the absolute joy she felt at this moment for fear of laughing so hard she wouldnt be able to speak again in years]

Oh- ah sorry. I seem to be in a habit of forgetting to introduce myself. Im caeli. Ironic, right? And you?

[praised-be-the-code]

*Tiny sparkles danced on his visor as he saw her smiling.

He then made her trip on purpose just to hold her, striking a pose.*

You can call me Keygen, darling. Priest of The Immaculate Code.

Hah... Ironic to find a newly formed religion in hell's guts, is it not?

*He spoke sweetly, lifting her back up and preparing to continue the dance if she so desired.

On the balconies above, the machines whispered and whirred. Some you couldn't understand but, those you could, whispered:

"The Code. The Immaculate Code. Praised be. Praised be."

As they went about their days.*

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She stumbled, but laughed hoarsely when he caught her. Shaking with delight]

I see what you did there.

[She grinned, straighting herself out again. She decided to get bold, taking his hand and lifting it towards, forcing him into a spin]

Nice to meet you, and no, I certainly wouldn't have expected that down here. Although if it happened in any circle, this would be the best one for it.

[She paused momentarily, looking up at the machines chanting. Not incredibly odd for a religion, she supposed. Reminded her of nuns who would spend their days singing in gregorian chant, or muttering prayers as they cleaned.]

[She would just have to stay cautious. He seemed nice, but she knew better than to trust first appearances when it came to this place]

Besides, irony is my nature. A woman named heaven damned to hell? Come on.

[praised-be-the-code]

*He gently spun with her, once again seamlessly, almost reading each movement she made and compensating with a move of his.

He also looked up at the chanting machines and then at the dark metallic structure that she presumed to be a few of that Organ's pipes.*

Yes, yes. A very ironic circumstance for sure. Almost as odd as a machine with no combat abilities being able to thrive in hell like I did.

*He laughed softly.*

Though I guess my case was just... A matter of luck.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

[She continued to smile as they danced. Mere minutes before she would have never expected this sort of outcome. Maybe there was some sort of.. good? In hell. However twisted and corrupted it may have become.]

Really? I mean, I suppose that explains why you havent tried to attack me yet.

[Oooh. Probably shouldn't have said that out loud. Good job caeli.]

Feel you there. Ive been all sorts of lucky as of late.

[She continued to mimic his movements. She was no machine nor a professional dancer. But minus a few trip ups she thought she did pretty good.]

[praised-be-the-code]

*He tilted his head a bit and chirped again.*

I suppose you're right, dear. Power has a way of corrupting people and machines alike.

I am no exception. I could very well try to attack those who come in. But what would that give me? I am not powered by blood and frame is as fragile as any human would be.

That would only give me problems, you see?

*He spoke gently as you both neared what looked like an ending to this one dance of yours.*

Besides, The Church Itself has this one set rule.

"No fighting in the premises of The Church."

So there's no need to do so. This is supposed to be a sanctuary after all. A resting place in which all are welcome unless they wish to harm us.

*He then pulled her closer but not too close.*

You are safe here. I promise.

[with-fear-and-trembling-stand]

Heh... uh. Yep. Good to know should you suddenly want a different sort of fuel im not exactly off the table.

[She joked, although her expression held the smallest amount of fear to it. She really didnt want to become a husk.]

The church itself..? As in the religion or the literal building? What happens if... someone breaks that rule?

[As the dance came to an end, she twirled one last time, and then struck a pose, smiling the whole time]

[Something about this environment radiated just... comfort. And she wasnt about to squander that. Even if the comfort turned out to be fake later on. She knew the sting of betrayal. She hoped if it occured once more it would be a dull ache instead]

Thank you. Truly.

[praised-be-the-code]

Well... The last one who broke this rule was...

*Keygen looked to the side, there was a dent on a wall nearby. The shape of said dent was unmistakable.

Swordmachine.

It was right underneath a sign that contained said rule.

The rest of The Church looked pristine, untouched. It seemed to take care of Itself so that... That was a warning.*

Let's be positive and say that the situation was handled with as much care as it was needed.

*His visor displays a ^w^ briefly before returning to the original symbol.*