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File 166942529817.png - (809.39KB , 982x695 , intro_2022.png )
138571 No. 138571 ID: 11f77a

Oh good! You all arrived! Another year brings another special Secret Santa to Alp Daga! I’ll be joined by my husband to help set up this wonderful event. It just so happens that it overlaps one of our chupian holidays in honoring the end of the year our psychopomp goddess--so please excuse the excessive make-up on our faces!

Here are the previous years of gift-giving!
(2016) https://questden.org/kusaba/questdis/res/106091.html
(2017) https://questden.org/kusaba/questdis/res/118595.html
(2018) https://questden.org/kusaba/questdis/res/126663.html
(2019) https://questden.org/kusaba/questdis/res/131539.html
(2020) https://questden.org/kusaba/questdis/res/134434.html
(2021) https://questden.org/kusaba/questdis/res/136526.html

What do you do? You can participate in many ways:

For Quest Authors/Signing-Up
For authors, all you need to do is declare which of your quest characters will partake in this exchange. Include their name and a link to the quest or wiki page. A picture is helpful as well. If posting multiple characters, you must state whether they’re a GROUP or INDIVIDUALS. Once we reach an appointed date, everyone will be randomly assigned their partner.

Alright! This is the fun and important part, so follow carefully! Once a match is made it is your job to write and illustrate what your character would give to their special someone! Perhaps something from their world. Or something personal! Maybe a backscratcher! A mannequin’s head! Perhaps a box of old VHS tapes!
You’re not obligated to have the character respond to a gift received. But the process of your character finding/deciding their partner’s gift is expected. It can be done in one picture, five, ten, animated; doesn’t matter as long as you don’t tire yourselves out! Posting before or after Christmas is no problem either!

Pairings will be made on December 5th. Latecomers will have until the 10th. Names will be posted with spoiler tags to keep things a secret! Have a look through past Secret Santas to get an idea how it works.

For Suggestors
Suggestors may also participate and gift any quest character! Post your idea for a present and who will receive it! Disclamer: it will be up to the author to illustrate their characters accepting the gift. It’s a busy holiday, so they may not have time to respond.

Any character unfortunate to not receive their gift will be compensated by Christmas in July! Sometimes artists need extra time after Christmas and New Years.
Expand all images
>>
No. 138572 ID: bc4cda
File 166942691579.jpg - (61.75KB , 574x500 , full_of_holiday_cheer.jpg )
138572

I'll be bringing ELDER STONE from A Small Quest and JYNN KARA from Order Up! They're signing up as individuals.
https://tgchan.org/wiki/A_Small_Quest
https://tgchan.org/wiki/Order_Up
>>
No. 138574 ID: 9ea24b
File 166942839696.png - (120.49KB , 500x500 , a15.png )
138574

olivia and john (together) from premier kaktus satire quest https://questden.org/wiki/Carnivorous_Cavern
>>
No. 138575 ID: ca2950
File 166943069735.png - (126.87KB , 623x474 , sant.png )
138575

Keimi and Alex from Inhabiting Malevolence/Twilight Star Saga
https://questden.org/wiki/Twilight_Star_Saga
>>
No. 138576 ID: b708ea
File 166943956131.png - (598.09KB , 1000x1000 , Dynamic Duo.png )
138576

Nickel & Astrolysis from Last Trace, as a group!

https://questden.org/wiki/Last_Trace

Nothin' strange happened last year. Totally.
>>
No. 138580 ID: dc13c4
File 166947231674.jpg - (911.35KB , 1277x1747 , 162849518372.jpg )
138580

Alright, I will throw my card in the hat as well and the pole that will be on this celebration would be Bobbie the princess and Abdle the demonic apple. These two came as one character. They come from the Rotten apple quest

https://questden.org/kusaba/graveyard/res/976001.html
>>
No. 138581 ID: e51896
File 166949384517.png - (59.02KB , 1209x720 , sk and rowland.png )
138581

Since people requested it, I will be submitting the Sweaty Kitty, and Rowland to participate in this event as a group! Both are from 30 UPDATES OR LESS (though Rowland has not appeared yet but has shown up in fan art, and questden holiday threads)

For context, they both work as mediators, and negotiators, but they are NOT lawyers. They deal with petty arguments mainly that lawyers would find a waste of time.

The Sweaty Kitty is a friendly cat who wants to help people. She loves exercising, especially aerobics, and yoga. However, she gets hot very easily and sweats an abnormally huge amount of sweat, enough to fill a cardboard box.

Rowland is an owl who is her secretary and loves reading books and hates exercising and flying, and gets annoyed whenever Sweaty Kitty tries to get him to exercise, especially when she tricks him into some exercises. (but will tolerate it).

Their small business isn't doing too well unfortunately, but they won't give up.

Quest (30 UPDATES OR LESS): https://questden.org/kusaba/quest/res/1014571.html
Wiki: https://questden.org/wiki/30_Updates_Or_Less
>>
No. 138582 ID: 11f77a
File 166949906378.gif - (127.64KB , 391x500 , choose.gif )
138582

Ey, it's these three individuals again from Team Port Echo: https://questden.org/wiki/Team_Port_Echo

Cybil - https://questden.org/kusaba/questdis/src/156562305445.png

Victor - https://questden.org/kusaba/questarch/src/159685182521.png

Eudora - https://questden.org/kusaba/questarch/src/157835214028.png
>>
No. 138583 ID: e51896

>>138582
I'm going to laugh really hard if I get Eudora for a third year
>>
No. 138588 ID: c68636
File 166955862130.jpg - (16.71KB , 258x370 , IMG_20210614_00044.jpg )
138588

I shall submit Sidah from princess quest!

https://questden.org/kusaba/quest/res/1037380.html


May god have mercy on who ever she is paired with..
>>
No. 138593 ID: 5499f4
File 166961877041.png - (571.70KB , 1289x1047 , Gena_003.png )
138593

GENA the cosplaying rat from CATALYST.
https://questden.org/wiki/Catalyst

She runs an onlyfaunus (onlyfans) and sells lewds but has also picked up sneak thief superpowers.

Expect her gift to you to be some Wanomay figurine or poster or something along that nature because she's a massive weeb. Though she could always sew something up, costume or plush if she's truly inspired by you.
>>
No. 138596 ID: 8483cf
File 166962089550.png - (26.20KB , 624x500 , SecretSantaSignup.png )
138596

I’ll bring Dotti the Fox Spirit from Lazy Fairy and Saiorse the Seamstress from Clothing Repair as individuals!

Dotti likes food, but she also likes things that help her fit in with society or let her feel more at ease around humans. She is a mischievous shapeshifter who isn’t afraid to voice her opinions or eat your leftovers.

Dotti reference pic: https://questden.org/kusaba/quest/src/166762718984.png
Lazy Fairy Wiki: https://questden.org/wiki/Lazy_Fairy

Saiorse is a business-savvy journeyman seamstress who’s just opened up her own shop. She’s always looking for new customers and offering them great clothing upgrades, alterations, or repairs at an entirely reasonable markup. Once she’s got the sale, she delivers top quality service with a smile. She absolutely loves her job.

Saiorse Reference Pic: https://questden.org/kusaba/quest/src/163228150415.png
Clothing Repair Wiki: https://questden.org/wiki/Clothing_Repair
>>
No. 138607 ID: 9b127b
File 166982802022.png - (704.21KB , 927x1115 , Chinzebeth000.png )
138607

I submit Chinzebeth from Chinzebeth VII

https://questden.org/wiki/Chinzebeth_VII
>>
No. 138608 ID: 9b127b
File 166982831506.png - (474.13KB , 657x858 , Pentacle081.png )
138608

I also Submit Xiatsu from King of Pentacles

https://questden.org/wiki/King_of_Pentacles
>>
No. 138611 ID: c96f56
File 166984978286.png - (11.92KB , 381x234 , trezipreview.png )
138611

I submit Peachy, from Another Gosh Darned Day https://questden.org/kusaba/quest/res/1041764.html

She is a preteen. She works on house-keeping around her neighbourhood. She likes peeking out to see if her dada passes by. She is also dirt poor, but she is used to finding things with practical value.

She is just so peachy!
>>
No. 138627 ID: 681cb5
File 166998657854.png - (88.31KB , 700x550 , Christmas.png )
138627

:MaphetLAV: Greetings, revered strangers! I am Maphet, and I am here to represent my tribe in this ritual to the great god Sand Claws! We are certain an exchange of gifts will benefits everyone involved… as well as make this Sand Claws god very pleased.
:PesiLAV: Are you sure this is a good idea, Mappy? Won’t Ptamet bit a bit miffed if we start worshipping a new god?
:MaphetLAV: We’re just establishing connections, Pesi, so that the triplets influence can spread even further.
:PesiLAV: ...I guess that might please her, yeah…

I’ll submit Maphet (with some help from Pesi) from Lascivious Labyrinth.
Quest: https://tezakia.net/kusaba/quest/res/1042403.html
Wiki: https://questden.org/wiki/Lascivious_Labyrinth
(Be warned, the quest in question is SUPER NSFW!)
>>
No. 138637 ID: 24acb9
File 167013311735.png - (194.07KB , 687x1002 , Secret_Santa_2017_JustSarah.png )
138637

I'm signing up Sarah Hanchett from June Quest.

https://questden.org/wiki/June_Quest
>>
No. 138638 ID: 24acb9
File 167013328339.png - (329.85KB , 702x1684 , Mystery_Nerds_Melody.png )
138638

Also signing up Melody from The Lacy Lane Mystery Girls Club.

https://questden.org/wiki/The_Lacy_Lane_Mystery_Girls_Club
>>
No. 138643 ID: 629f2e
File 167020697312.png - (1.00MB , 1000x1000 , SS22-1.png )
138643

Once again, the opportunity to participate in an event connecting several worlds has been placed in my lap. It may not be December yet, but my invitation to partake in Secret Santa has already arrived.

This timing is... really inconvenient. For lots of reasons.

Mainly, it’s just that I’m too busy. I have too much to do before the day is over, and I doubt I’ll find an opportunity any other time this week to go out shopping. Even if I could, I’m being monitored too closely at this point. Dad has been Suspicious of me ever since Franklin and Lillian visited earlier. He knows that I was alone with Franklin for long enough to talk, and he’s right in thinking I abused that opportunity. Without clear proof however, he won’t take direct action. Not yet.

I suppose I could part with some of my toys, but speaking honestly I just don’t want to. They’re my toys, why should I have to give them away? Childish, yes, but it’s how I feel.

Besides, once dad is finished cleaning the broken glass downstairs, I won’t have much time to myself. He’s not leaving me alone when he suspects that I may be up to something. Under his watch, I won’t have a good opportunity to send my own gifts. I only have one trick left to give him the slip, and I’m saving it for later.

I do wish I could take part. There are a lot of things I’d like to do, but they aren’t in the cards right now. Those are just the circumstances I’m in.

Still, I would like to help others participate. Can I reach any of my classmates through the spirits?

Franklin is... Unconscious. That’s annoying, but admittedly not unexpected.

Roger, Albert, and Clive are off on their Investigation, unlikely to come back for some time I would think. They’re simply too busy to distract right now.

That’s about it for children receptive to the spirits. Without that route open, there’s just no way I can recruit anyone. Perhaps Cattenom will simply stay out of the event this–

I pause. I’d just Heard something, the sound of opportunity. Without delay, I throw open my window and scan the sidewalk. Sure enough, a certain classmate of mine was passing by, likely on his way home. Who needs spirits when your own voice can carry the message? I call out to him.
>>
No. 138644 ID: 629f2e
File 167020699614.png - (836.66KB , 1000x1000 , SS22-2.png )
138644

Temmie: “Louie!

He stops, looking around before finally locking eyes with me.

Louie: “Temmie? Do you need something?”
Temmie: “Just a bit of your time. Could I interest you in a small event?”
Louie: “Uh... What would it be?”
Temmie: “Just a simple gift exchange. You will be given someone to give a gift to, and someone else will be given your name.”
Louie: “I... I guess that could be fun. Maybe a little stressful, since picking out a good gift for someone, especially if it’s someone where I don’t know them well...

He starts mumbling, while fidgeting in place as his thoughts pour out like an upturned bottle.

Temmie: “You may relax. You will have until the end of today to pick something out, thus limiting the expectation to find the Perfect gift.”
Louie: “O-Oh, that’s... That’s better... But also kind of sudden.”

He’s correct, last time I gave participants a week. However, we’re low on time. The situation in town is developing too quickly to do this another day.

Temmie: “Will you play along anyways? I don’t get to do it this year, so I want to make sure others get to.”
Louie: “Wait, you aren’t? Isn’t this your event though, who’s actually running–?”
Temmie: “The Class President has many questions, but Temmie’s time is limited. Will you believe me when I say that you will enjoy yourself if you take part?”

To his credit, he only looks unsure for a few seconds before nodding in agreement.

I place a representative figure of him in my salt circle, and request a quick match from the hosts. Sure enough, a page soon appears that wasn’t previously there, detailing who Louie’s target is. All that’s left is to get it to him. I could fold it into a paper airplane... if I knew how to make them...

Forget it. I just ball it up and throw it at his face. It’s faster than anything else.

He quietly grumbles about the delivery before reading what it says. He squints in confusion.

Louie: “This is– Sorry, what–?”
Temmie: “Don’t worry about it. Whatever you get them, just place it in a salt circle before you go to bed tonight.”
Louie: “I... Why?”
Temmie: “Again, don’t worry. Remember, even if the description seems fake, you said you would go along with it. If you don’t deliver, you’ll feel Rotten when your present really does arrive.”
Louie: “Um... I’ll do it, but just one more thing.”
Louie: “Wouldn’t this make more sense as a Christmas activity? We could probably organize something for the whole class if we start early. N-Not that we can’t still do this I mean.”
Temmie: “This is a Christmas game. It’s Secret Santa!”
Louie: “...But it’s not even December.”
Temmie: “Just because it isn’t Christmas here, doesn’t mean it isn’t Christmas somewhere else.”
Louie: “...That’s true, I guess, but I don’t think you’re exactly correct about how timezones work. There isn’t anywhere on the planet where it’s Christmas right now.”
Temmie: “Louie speaks the truth, but fails to consider a scale beyond that of one world.”

With that, I shut the window and leave him to his gifting. Despite my situation, it felt good that I could still get one person to sign up.

Still... Just one? It’s a little bit underwhelming, especially with how many sign-ups I had last time. But without being allowed out of the house, the number of people I can reach is very limited.

Temmie: “Franklin and Clive would be easy to contact if they were available. Maybe if I wait ‘til later...?”
Temmie: “...”
Temmie: “Wait... Maybe I’m the one who was thinking too small actually. It’s not like I can only recruit this Franklin or this Clive.”

This secret santa game is taking place across many different worlds. So... Why limit myself to this one? If I’m able to contact others beyond the veil, why not seek out the most familiar voices?

Franklin and Clive... Perhaps I can find both of them out there. Somewhere beyond Cattenom...
>>
No. 138645 ID: 629f2e
File 167020701903.png - (17.69KB , 500x500 , SS22-3.png )
138645

Francis looks over the letter he’d received carefully. He reads it aloud for the Golem and Living-Tool sitting with him. The letter details an Interdimensional Secret Santa gift exchange, inviting him to take part.

Francis: “...It sounds like fun. I think I’m gonna do it.”
Lilith: “Seriously? I’ve been suggesting all sorts of fun adventurous things we could do, and this is the change of pace you finally spring for?”
Francis: “You keep suggesting Epic Quests.
Lilith: “I like epic quests!”
Francis: “I already did one though. I don’t think many people go on more than one adventure that big. Most don’t even do one actually...”
Francis: “If you just want to fight, there are always smaller jobs I can take you on.”
Lilith: “We don’t get to fight anyone good on those.”
Francis: “What about that one bandit? The one that got away.”
Lilith: “And I demanded that we go on an epic quest to find her and take down her entire gang. An awesome suggestion that you completely turned down.”
Francis: “...That sounds like a lot of work to find them, fight them all, coordinate with local authorities, weed out corruption among the local authorities so they aren’t set free...”

He yawns, the very prospect of another grand adventure tiring him out.

Francis: “And none of that’s really fun for me the way it is for you. It’s all just Work. It’s nice at the end when we make a difference, but other people can do that and enjoy it.”
Lilith: “Maaan why’s your taste gotta suck so much?”
Judith: “The Tool’s failure to compromise and meet The Lethargic Lizard halfway results in her being used in fewer battles than she otherwise would.”
Judith: “If you desire something greater, perhaps I could be convinced to go on a longer quest.”
Lilith: “Ugh, pass. You don’t swing me the way he does. I want speed, power, technique, variety, all the stuff only this laybout can give me but won’t.”
Francis: “...Thank you? I think there was a compliment buried there.”
Francis: “We can talk about that stuff later. Right now, I want to do this secret santa thing. Can you help me think of a good gift idea?”
Lilith: “Fine, but you owe me a spar with someone afterwards.
Judith: “I’ll try not to spoil the outcome, while still aiding in your choice.”
>>
No. 138646 ID: 629f2e
File 167020712075.png - (16.15KB , 500x500 , SS22-4.png )
138646

Clark: “...One more time?”
Chi: “It’s an interdimensional secret santa game. Y’know, a gift exchange where none of the participants know who their gift will come from. Just across different dimensions.”
Chi: “What part are you having trouble understanding?”
Clark: “The part where you keep saying it like I shouldn’t be surprised about being contacted across dimensions.”
Chi: “...Right, I guess the idea of other dimensions existing and interacting with each other is a bit out there, isn’t it?”
Clark: “A little bit.”

You brought the letter to your teacher because you really had no better idea what to do with it. Throwing it out was an idea, but something held you back. Maybe you just wanted someone to confirm that it was bogus?

In short, this wasn’t how you were hoping this conversation would go.

Clark: “Why are they reaching out to me?
Chi: “I can’t even pretend to know their criteria. If you go along with it and send something in, you might get something nice in return.”
Clark: “...I don’t think I should be wasting shinies on something like this. I don’t have enough saved up for emergencies, this isn’t a priority.”
Chi: “Who says you have to buy something?”
Clark: “What else do I have to offer?”
Chi: “Hmm...”

She pauses, clearly holding an internal conversation with herself. You can see the beats of it in her eyes, as she debates with herself on what to say. Eventually something wins out, and she snaps back to attention.

Chi: “Why don’t we make it part of your studies?”
Clark: “...You mean I should make a gift?”
Chi: “You’ve shown some proficiency already. I’m sure if you give it some thought, you can come up with something amazing.”
Clark: “...If it won’t cost me anything.”

You sigh, recognizing that you’re probably going to regret this. Maybe Rodger will at least get some entertainment when you tell him the apparent reality of other dimensions.

...

Final review on who is signing up:

Julong Leoi (Louie), The Class Presidentfrom Perpetuity - https://questden.org/wiki/Perpetuity
Francis, one time adventurer and professional hug worker from Crystal Spire - https://questden.org/wiki/Crystal_Spire
Clark, the budding runescripter from SHARDS - https://questden.org/wiki/Shards
>>
No. 138653 ID: 481e64
File 167028666852.png - (371.84KB , 926x902 , Illustration3.png )
138653

Dowser and Bry from Tobak Quest
Signing up as a group
https://questden.org/wiki/Tobak_Quest
>>
No. 138654 ID: 11f77a

And it's time to draw the names! ♥ Any characters late to the party may have the opportunity on the 10th to pair with someone!
>>
No. 138655 ID: 11f77a
File 167028732594.png - (774.76KB , 800x700 , giant_hat.png )
138655

Elder Stone has Gena from Catalyst(https://questden.org/wiki/Catalyst)!
Jynn Kara has Maphet from Lascivious Labyrinth(https://questden.org/wiki/Lascivious_Labyrinth)!
>>
No. 138656 ID: 11f77a
File 167028738274.png - (715.21KB , 800x700 , tippler.png )
138656

Olivia and John have Keimi & Alex from Twilight Star Saga(https://questden.org/wiki/Twilight_Star_Saga)!
>>
No. 138657 ID: 11f77a
File 167028742734.png - (742.24KB , 800x700 , gnoll.png )
138657

Keimi and Alex have Sweaty Kitty & Rowland from 30 Updates or Less(https://questden.org/wiki/30_Updates_Or_Less)!
>>
No. 138658 ID: 11f77a
File 167028746732.png - (813.32KB , 800x700 , cross.png )
138658

Nickel and Astrolysis have Francis from Crystal Spire(https://questden.org/wiki/Crystal_Spire)!
>>
No. 138659 ID: 11f77a
File 167028751743.png - (804.14KB , 800x700 , absurd.png )
138659

Bobbie and Abdle have Chinzebeth from Chinzebeth VII(https://questden.org/wiki/Chinzebeth_VII)!
>>
No. 138660 ID: 11f77a
File 167028755786.png - (801.13KB , 800x700 , polt.png )
138660

Sweaty Kitty and Rowland have Melody from The Lacy Lane Mystery Girls Club(https://questden.org/wiki/The_Lacy_Lane_Mystery_Girls_Club)!
>>
No. 138661 ID: 11f77a
File 167028761766.png - (876.45KB , 800x700 , sarcoph.png )
138661

Cybil has Xiatzu from King of Pentacles(https://questden.org/wiki/King_of_Pentacles)!
Victor has Peachy from Another Gosh Darned Day(https://questden.org/wiki/Another_Gosh_Darned_Day)!
Eudora has Tineola from Clothing Repair(https://questden.org/wiki/Clothing_Repair)
>>
No. 138662 ID: 11f77a
File 167028765164.png - (825.79KB , 800x700 , cthul.png )
138662

Sidah has Bobbie & Abdle from Rotten Apple Quest(https://questden.org/kusaba/graveyard/res/976001.html)!
>>
No. 138664 ID: 11f77a
File 167028771019.png - (797.00KB , 800x700 , donut.png )
138664

Dotti has Dowser & Bry from Tobak Quest(https://questden.org/wiki/Tobak_Quest)!
Sairose has Sidah from Princess Quest(https://questden.org/wiki/Princess_Quest_(Azathoth))!
>>
No. 138665 ID: 11f77a
File 167028799469.png - (744.96KB , 800x700 , edmango.png )
138665

Gena has Sarah Hanchett from June Quest(https://questden.org/wiki/June_Quest)
>>
No. 138666 ID: 11f77a
File 167028810213.png - (810.40KB , 800x700 , lw.png )
138666

Chinzebeth has Elder Stone from A Small Quest(https://questden.org/wiki/A_Small_Quest)!
Xiatzu has Olivia & John from Carnivorous Cavern(https://questden.org/wiki/Carnivorous_Cavern)!
>>
No. 138667 ID: 11f77a
File 167028812784.png - (702.75KB , 800x700 , sillysealot.png )
138667

Peachy has Jynn Kara from Order Up(https://questden.org/wiki/Order_Up)!
>>
No. 138668 ID: 11f77a
File 167028817654.png - (702.83KB , 800x700 , kaktus.png )
138668

Maphet has Eudora from Team Port Echo(https://questden.org/wiki/Team_Port_Echo)!
>>
No. 138669 ID: 11f77a
File 167028824821.png - (781.82KB , 800x700 , anon44.png )
138669

Sarah Hanchett has Clark from Shards(https://questden.org/wiki/Shards)!
Melody has Dotti from Lazy Fairy(https://questden.org/wiki/Lazy_Fairy)!
>>
No. 138670 ID: 11f77a
File 167028832676.png - (772.63KB , 800x700 , himitsu.png )
138670

Julong Leoi has Nickel & Astrolysis from Last Trace(https://questden.org/wiki/Last_Trace)!
Francis has Sairose from Clothing Repair(https://questden.org/wiki/Clothing_Repair)!
Clark has Victor from Team Port Echo(https://questden.org/wiki/Team_Port_Echo)!
>>
No. 138671 ID: 11f77a
File 167028881985.png - (755.73KB , 800x700 , roaway.png )
138671

Dowser and Bry has Julong Leoi (Louie) from Perpetuity (https://questden.org/wiki/Perpetuity)!
>>
No. 138673 ID: 11f77a
File 167028921994.png - (780.57KB , 1200x879 , village_2022.png )
138673

And that's it! Start your working on your gifts!

Santa-Fest
Even if it’s not related to gift-giving or whether you’re not participating in the secret santa, anyone can post a festive image and have characters mingle! You may hang out at the winter festival in my village as we celebrate the end of the year of our goddess, Ce’Sil the psychopomp! Face-painting is optional, too ♥

What can you do here, you may ask? There’s food! And... hmm... food! There’s probably karaoke. Uuhm. Praying? We might not have the right outlets for your off-world devices--hope your battery lasts!
>>
No. 138674 ID: 9ea24b
File 167029356105.png - (166.01KB , 500x500 , a51.png )
138674

grotesque food guzzling noises
>>
No. 138675 ID: a7a180
File 167029875713.png - (136.58KB , 500x500 , santas_littlest_helper.png )
138675

"Well, here we are at the Life Day party. Thanks for giving me a lift, Elder Stone."
"Please, just call me Stone. It'll be nice to take a vacation for once, Anet and Jaina would have loved to come but they were busy at some kind of card tournament."
"Hey, where are we anyway? Where are all the other guests?"
"Why, just look around you dear! I believe we're at the face painting station."
>>
No. 138676 ID: a7a180
File 167029876544.png - (128.57KB , 500x500 , the_abominable_snowmom.png )
138676

"Wha- By the Force! You could have warned me about this, Stone!"
>>
No. 138678 ID: 681cb5
File 167030889716.png - (84.94KB , 700x550 , FOOOOD!!!.png )
138678

>>138674
grotesque food guzzling noises intensifies
>>
No. 138682 ID: 87e33c
File 167035329131.png - (281.39KB , 800x500 , a3.png )
138682

>>138678
> The feasting grows in size
Gena: *Minecraft munching noise*
>>
No. 138685 ID: c7f601
File 167036416021.jpg - (203.38KB , 516x514 , bb 1.jpg )
138685

Abdle: " Yes, yes, yes! We just got the jackpot when it comes to the person to who we will be giving the presentation. I knew that it was a good idea to participle in this multidimensional holiday celebration."

Bobbie: "Well at least we didn't get this person called Sweaty Kitty, by the description she sweets a lot...I don't know where these weirdos come from."
>>
No. 138686 ID: c7f601
File 167036421267.jpg - (109.94KB , 364x379 , bb 2.jpg )
138686

Abdle: "Focus Bobbie, we need to think of a perfect gift to give to our present recipient!"

Bobbie: "Maybe we could cop off her head and stab it on the spike."
>>
No. 138687 ID: c7f601
File 167036429198.jpg - (105.06KB , 364x379 , bb 3.jpg )
138687

Abdle: "What the fuck are you talking about?!? We need a fitting gift and not fitting execution plan!"
>>
No. 138688 ID: c7f601
File 167036433420.jpg - (141.52KB , 374x442 , bb 4.jpg )
138688

Bobbie: "Oh no I was not thinking about the person who will revise our present I was thinking about what I would do if I ended up coming into spitting distance of Sweaty Kitty, that is if I don't start vomiting first."
>>
No. 138689 ID: c7f601
File 167036437634.jpg - (128.42KB , 510x417 , bb 5.jpg )
138689

Abdle: "Would you just stop thinking about that stupid cat! Besides I am a rotting apple and you are a zombie princess, we have no justification to call out anybody on their hygiene!"
>>
No. 138690 ID: c7f601
File 167036443652.jpg - (95.25KB , 303x348 , bb 6.jpg )
138690

Bobbie: "I may be an under princess but that doesn't mean that I need to smell bad! Just by reading her name, I can only imagine just how much she stinks!"
>>
No. 138691 ID: c7f601
File 167036447701.jpg - (96.69KB , 326x370 , bb 7.jpg )
138691

Abdle: "Just drop your sick fascination with this one individual and get our troops ready, we need to prepare a grand spectacle."
>>
No. 138697 ID: 8483cf
File 167040305981.png - (347.57KB , 1100x500 , SecretSanta2022 1.png )
138697

It’s the best time of year again! Time to jump out of bed in search of food, gifts and warm fireplaces to snuggle up to.

“BEST HOLIDAY EVER!” Dotti screams as she leaps into the feast with unrivaled gusto. No ham hock is safe.

Saiorse, meanwhile, is discovering the fine art of cosplay.

“Wait, say that again. People will pay how much for a magical girl outfit?” Saiorse asks, her eyes almost as bright as her fully illuminated headwear.

“Like, their whole paycheck and more!” Gena replies. “Anyway, you said you were a pro? Well, I have a few ideas for ya…”
>>
No. 138698 ID: 481e64
File 167040999761.png - (321.43KB , 800x600 , SS7.png )
138698

>"Allllright! Who is ready to receive their gift?"
"Just a moment - I'm readjusting it. As handy as the universal compass is, it is twice as fidgety - company equipment tends to be that way."
>"That's the gift? I had my own idea in mind~."
"Yeah, I scavenged this a while back and figured it was as good as a gift as any. You can make it point to pretty much anything that’s in its general database given it is in close enough proximity. Handy for finding loose change or lost ten-millimetre sockets. You could even put DNA samples in it if you were looking for an animal or person. Were you... going to give yourself as the gift?"
>"mhmm. So? Who's the lucky recipient?"
"A hall monitor or something like that. A human kid - One 'Julong Leoi' or 'Louie'"
>"A Ki-"
>>
No. 138699 ID: 481e64
File 167041002368.png - (198.45KB , 800x600 , SS8.png )
138699

>"A kid?! You're kidding, right? You mean that out of all those exotic aliens, animal people and mature humans, we got assigned to a kid instead?!"
"That's the luck of the draw I'm afraid."
>"I'm disappointed. I'm not great with kids. They are noisy and always pull my ears. "
"At least we're close to the same size. I'm actually not sure if humans even like tobaks that much to begin with. They always call us 'goats' as we resemble the earth animal. I think it's derogatory? I can't be sure, but I bet humans hate goats."
>"I feel silly. I wrapped myself up for nothing."
"That doesn't have to be the case. There's plenty of people out there having a good time, I'm sure you can find someone you can gift yourself to. There is also the person who needs to give us our gift, maybe you can give yourself to them... assuming they aren't also a kid."
>"We will have to see... It's a good thing you had a backup gift."
"It's always better to be safe than sorry. Remember to put your goggles on when you go out there with everyone else. For some reason people really like putting up lights around this time of year. Even the trees aren't safe."
>>
No. 138700 ID: 63f410

>>138674
>>138678
>>138682
>>138697
Since we have someone from A Small Quest and someone that's been shrunken down somewhere around here, I'd like to remind everyone to check your food before eating!

We don't want a repeat of what happened to Jaina during the Halloween party!
>>
No. 138704 ID: 11f77a
File 167045459111.png - (812.52KB , 800x700 , giant_hat 2.png )
138704

We have enough room to squeeze in this lovely lady to help fix a few pairing issues! Introducing--

Tineola has Cybil from Team Port Echo(https://questden.org/wiki/Team_Port_Echo)
>>
No. 138707 ID: 53d46e
File 167048310066.png - (87.77KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 1.png )
138707

YOUR PATH IS NOW CLEAR BEFORE YOU, YOUNG ONE. YOU MUST MAKE A PROPER GIFT AND MEET THIS PERSON AT THE FESTIVAL.

TOMORROW EVENING, JUST ONE HOUR BEFORE CURFEW, GO DOWN THE LEFT TUNNEL IN THE SECLUDED ALLEWAY. THERE YOU SHALL FIND A PORTAL THAT WILL TAKE YOU TO THE CELEBRATION GROUNDS.

GO! GO AND MAKE HASTE, BOLD FLOWERING BUD! THE MERRYMENT OF A KINDRED SOUL, AND INDEED THE VERY INTEGRITY OF THE SHARING AND GIVING HOLIDAY, RESTS ON YOUR MIGHTY SHOULDERS!
>>
No. 138708 ID: 53d46e
File 167048312708.png - (137.91KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 2.png )
138708

>>
No. 138709 ID: 53d46e
File 167048321758.png - (138.89KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 3.png )
138709

I will not fail you, magic mushroom!
>>
No. 138710 ID: 53d46e
File 167048323479.png - (77.31KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 4.png )
138710

>>
No. 138711 ID: 53d46e
File 167048325379.png - (87.78KB , 661x558 , Peachy Gifting 5.png )
138711

>>
No. 138712 ID: 53d46e
File 167048327413.png - (67.60KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 6.png )
138712

>>
No. 138713 ID: 53d46e
File 167048331030.png - (61.14KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 7.png )
138713

>>
No. 138714 ID: 53d46e
File 167048376009.png - (81.03KB , 661x580 , Peachy Gifting 8.png )
138714

FWINT!
>>
No. 138715 ID: 53d46e
File 167048421731.png - (126.91KB , 661x580 , Peachy Gifting 9.png )
138715

Uh... Hello?

I'm here for the... uh.. secret gift celebration!

I have present for Jynn Kara! Does anyone here know her?
Four arms... lots of hair on her head.... really long neck.
>>
No. 138716 ID: 53d46e
File 167048433725.png - (92.12KB , 661x580 , Peachy Gifting 10.png )
138716

YEAOWCH! What did I step on? Crud, that's cold!

Wait, what's this?


What....huh?
>>
No. 138717 ID: 53d46e
File 167048438020.png - (107.51KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 11.png )
138717

>>
No. 138718 ID: 53d46e
File 167048439950.png - (108.86KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 12.png )
138718

>>
No. 138719 ID: 53d46e
File 167048448883.png - (118.94KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 13.png )
138719

WHAT'S WITH ALL THIS WHITE STUFF?!
>>
No. 138721 ID: e51896
File 167049364984.png - (303.79KB , 2560x1107 , 016.png )
138721

*OM-NOM-NOM and Slurping noises*
>>
No. 138726 ID: 9ea24b
File 167052873456.png - (118.44KB , 500x500 , a61.png )
138726

The high density of technicolor beasts and humans at the table makes John uncomfortable. If he eats any more right now he'll probably throw up, so he makes sure he's fit as much high calorie food in his pack before gesturing to Olivia for them to go.

The coyote bites her lip. "Don't we have to do a gift thing?"

"We're broke, have no skills, and probably shouldn't be this close to people. We'll give them mange." He zips the bag shut and slings it around his shoulders.

"Maybe...maybe we can give them a non-material gift. The gift of them being glad they're not us." Olivia nods slowly. "Yes, let's just hang around in the background wherever they show up until they notice how decrepit we are."

As soon as Keimi and the beau show up to the party Olivia and John will awkwardly stalk them until they leave.
>>
No. 138733 ID: a7a180
File 167062913533.png - (190.85KB , 500x500 , ruler_not_to_scale.png )
138733

Hello, Gena. We don't have much in our village, but we're willing to give what we can. In fact, I was going over our building supplies when these caught my eye. Elder Styx tells me these characters are from a... wanomay, in your tongue? Called Formican Force Five. I've never watched it, but he tells me that he admires the "narrative of character growth." Anyway, these pencils, glitter pens and ruler are plastered with the characters' faces, and they even have a sticker sheet to go with them. So, enjoy holding these sparkly writing implements to fill out paperwork I guess. Just don't tell anyone where you got them, please.
>>
No. 138734 ID: a7a180
File 167062915196.png - (164.44KB , 500x500 , she_forgot_to_get_it_bagged.png )
138734

Earlier...

You ponder a good gift for your partner this year. Leftover McE's toys? A coupon book? No! Those are cruddy gifts, and you know it. Maybe if you had more of your old padawan stuff around, you'd at least have a mystic trinket or two to give away. This gift is going to have to come out of your Life Day bonus.
Hmm... You pass this store all the time, but you've never dared to go inside before. Now you have an excuse to look around.

{-}

Oh my. You'll be blushing for a week, but you think you found something Maphet will like. So expensive, for such a small outfit… The purchase also comes with a box of powdered Hoth chocolate for some reason.

Happy Life Day, Maphet! Your gift(s) should be arriving by post posthaste.
-Jynn

>>
No. 138735 ID: ca2950
File 167063249484.png - (165.96KB , 621x555 , Picking.png )
138735

Keimi: "Hey, Alex. Look here. We got our secret winter festival gift match ups."

Alex: "Oh, okay. Wow... That's a little worrying. Is that normal for that species or...?"

Keimi: "No. I'm fairly certain that's a pretty serious medical issue, but we just have to pick out a gift, not worry about what ever is going on there."


Alex: "A mop and bucket? Some of those infomercial towels that can suck up an entire pot of soup?"

Keimi: "That's not very festive and I'm sure they already have one, considering."

Alex: "You know, the fluidly challenged one looks pretty similar to a valdran."

Keimi: "The other one looks like a zieh and there were some people at the last thing that looked like aaloxi. I should take notes at these things. I could write a paper on convergent evolution in xenobiology."

Alex: "You'd have to stay sober for that.

Keimi: "Some mysteries were not meant to be revealed."
>>
No. 138736 ID: 9ea24b
File 167063612660.png - (110.32KB , 500x500 , a66.png )
138736

"There! Right there!" Olivia's paw shakes as she points at their targets.

The two leave the feasting table and hunker down behind a pile of snow shoveled out of the main walkway.

John squints. "They're bantering about science or skin conditions or something. Do you think we look frail enough?"

"We're very frail." Olivia ducks behind cover as Alex and Keimi roughhouse and giggle. "How do we make sure they notice us without it being unnatural?"

"Let's walk over to that karaoke building. Hunch your back more."
>>
No. 138737 ID: 9ea24b
File 167063664206.png - (115.28KB , 500x500 , a67.png )
138737

>>
No. 138738 ID: ca2950
File 167064194149.png - (324.42KB , 873x828 , Santa.png )
138738

Keimi and Alex arrive at the Santa-fest, lugging a large metal box. They notice some weirdos staring at them, but they're so used to it at this point that's it's barely a concern.

Keimi: "Hello, hello! We have a gift for Rowland and Sweat- wait, is that actually her name? Sweaty Kitty. Are they here? It's an environmental control unit for your office so you can be less swe- more comfortable."

Alex: "Kei, c'mon. Where can I put this thing? It weighs a ton!"

Keimi: Maybe. I dunno!"
>>
No. 138740 ID: 9ea24b
File 167068847084.png - (135.11KB , 500x500 , a68.png )
138740

John presses his goggles against the window of the karaoke lounge. "I don't think they cared."

"Damn." Olivia joins him ogling their targets. "We have to get them their gift or we're going to be in trouble with the hosts and they might confiscate your bag."

Both shudder, unable to imagine anything worse.

"Let's give them another non-material gift. The gift of attention." John decides.

"I don't think they want our attention."

"They might not, but I bet their creator gets some emotional satisfaction from seeing his ocs drawn in a questden holiday event."
>>
No. 138741 ID: 8483cf
File 167075015243.png - (12.07KB , 500x341 , SS22-D01.png )
138741

Great food! Great friends! Great gifts! Holidays are the best time of the year.

Dotti munches on her meat and candied fruits, happy with her choice of gift. It was a tough one this year: she had to pick the same gift for two entirely different people, ‘cause apparently some people are really good at sharing. Fortunately, Dotti’s a social genius who has no problems figuring out what people like. It helps that they have three tails, just like her.

One of her fuzzy giftees apparently has a companion that rides around in their head. Dotti can absolutely understand how tiring it can get to have someone who follows you around all day and criticizes everything you do. What’s even worse is that this technicolor companion can take over his body when he’s sleeping. That’s just scary!

The other fuzzy person gets very nervous when he’s getting flirted with. Again, Dotti can relate. Flirting can be stressful, especially when it’s from somebody taller than you, which is everyone.

The solution: a nice, soothing cup of tea!
>>
No. 138742 ID: 8483cf
File 167075018980.png - (9.95KB , 500x500 , SS22-D02.png )
138742

With help from the herbal knowledge of her elven friend Raelynn, Dotti has prepared Dowser and Bry a nice box of tea leaves. It’s an extra-rare variety of Rooibos, perfect for relaxing, and has some special properties in larger amounts. One pinch will calm the nerves and silence those pesky intrusive thoughts. Two pinches will provide a luxurious sense of serenity and send any ride-along passengers relying on a person’s higher brain functions to snoozeville: awesome for when you don’t any criticism from companions. And three pinches will set you up for a long, relaxing sleep guaranteed to be free of sleepwalking (or your body being possessed).

Obviously it’s best for Dowser, but maybe Bry could use some peace and tranquility too.
>>
No. 138746 ID: e51896
File 167075694956.png - (191.29KB , 2560x1440 , 017.png )
138746

Upon hearing the call from Keimi and Alex, the Sweaty Kitty, and Rowland immediately stop eating at the feasting table, and heads over to meet up with their Secret Santas

Rowland: Yes, yes! we're here!
Sweaty Kitty: Wait... Sweaty Kitty? Silly Rowland, did you not put in my name and actually wrote in "Sweaty Kitty" instead?
Rowland: Uhhh... oops. So many people call you that, that I must have accidentally wrote that in out of influence... sorry.
Sweaty Kitty: Ah well. Whoa! Is that for us?! I didn't know we were handing out gifts this soon!
Rowland: Wow! since I don't see any electrical cords, I'm assuming this is battery powered?
Rowland: if that is the case, this could really cool down our office without issues!
Sweaty Kitty: That's right! The owner of the building our business is in bills us way too much to use our current air-conditioner, so this will be perfect to not have to worry about paying extra for electric
Sweaty Kitty: Finally, now I don't have to do aerobics and yoga in the nud- I MEAN without feeling too hot!
Rowland: They really went above and beyond for us!
Sweaty Kitty: Thank you so much for the gift, guys! We'll take that heavy environmental control unit off your hands!
Rowland: There's some food over there too! I suggest getting some while you still can.
Rowland: I've seen the other party goers going to town at the table, who knows how much longer the food will still be there, heh heh.
Sweaty Kitty: Thanks again! and I hope your Secret Santa gets you something amazing too!
Rowland: I'm sure they will, it's a Secret Santa event, after all!

>>
No. 138747 ID: e51896
File 167075696123.png - (139.08KB , 2560x1440 , 018.png )
138747

Rowland and the Sweaty Kitty both grab the heavy environmental control unit off of Alex's hands, freeing him from his burden. however, even with two people, the environmental control unit is still a little heavy for both of them to carry.

Sweaty Kitty: *grunt* Wow! this thing is heavy! how did he carry this thing all by himself?
Rowland: Quick! lets put it in your HAMMERSPACIAL DIMENSION!
Sweaty Kitty: Oof, uuuhhhh, ummmm...
Sweaty Kitty: Can't. too much towels are crammed in there right now. What about you?
Rowland: I'm... uhh... ashamed to admit that my HAMMERSPACIAL DIMENSION is full too.
Rowland: I forgot to take my books out before coming here. And I have our gift recipient's gift in there as well...
Sweaty Kitty: Oh... Well shoot! Darn item limitations...
Sweaty Kitty: Guess we'll have to-
Rowland: NO! I'm not bench-pressing, or doing an endurance exercise to see how long I can hold this heavy thing!
Rowland: It's the holidays! Give me a break, please!

>>
No. 138748 ID: e51896
File 167075697587.png - (180.33KB , 2560x1440 , 019.png )
138748

Sweaty Kitty: Whoa... Well, don't worry. I wasn't going to suggest that
Sweaty Kitty: I was actually planning on going to find Melody and give her our gift!
Sweaty Kitty: A POLTER-TECTOR
Rowland: Right, that thing that detects ghosts that we found at the mall.
Rowland: Are we sure that thing works for what she does?
Sweaty Kitty: Well, she is a detective searching for ghosts, so I think it will be helpful.
Sweaty Kitty: Plus, she seems like a pretty smart girl, I'm sure she'll be able to easily figure out how to operate that detector
Sweaty Kitty: and if not, well, it can be seen as a novelty item, it does make cool noises either way.
Rowland: Come on, lets go find her quick so we can empty out some space in my HAMMERSPACIAL DIMENSION to fit this heavy thing in!


The Sweaty Kitty and Rowland are now in a SITUATION, and will proceed to search for Melody to give her her gift to free up some space in their HAMMERSPACIAL DIMENSION... or perhaps find a safe spot to place their environmental control unit.

Have a good holiday, Melody!

Hope you liked it Anon44!

>>
No. 138749 ID: 8483cf
File 167079716909.png - (106.98KB , 888x959 , SS22-S01.png )
138749

Dear Sidah,

Everyone deserves a chance to live out their dreams. I’m sure you’ll get the chance to make time for some dancing soon, even if it’s in private.

I’ve designed this dress with plenty of frills and petticoats to twirl and spin as much as you want. I hope it’ll help you take center stage!

If you want anything else to wear to spice up the night, just drop by my shop: A Stitch in Time!

Sincerely,
Saiorse

>>
No. 138751 ID: 11f77a
File 167089673733.png - (644.64KB , 830x692 , eud_1.png )
138751

Eudora: How fitting; a moth as my secret santa. I never wanted to change into this form again after... last time. But the circumstances call for me to bundle up against the frigid climate on Alp Daga.

Eudora: And so I’ve taken the liberty to make the finest silks from my mouth. It required a lot of fiber and discarded laundry from an undisclosed source.
>>
No. 138752 ID: 11f77a
File 167089675710.png - (620.32KB , 830x692 , eud_2.png )
138752

Eudora: But then I ate it. So it got me on a tight schedule. Thus I planet-hopped to scrounge up what the galaxy has to offer.

Eudora: Ganymede, the box.
>>
No. 138753 ID: 11f77a
File 167089680406.png - (552.60KB , 830x692 , eud_3.png )
138753

Ganymede: Wow, all those colors to make only the most beautiful outfit?

Eudora: Outfit? No, it’s like a box of sweets. It’s really a collection of fabric samplings from each planet’s version of a Home Depot. You got:
>Cob-silk of Huntoon Royalty off the backs of servant Mothocobs.
>Redgold Chupian Yarn, used for ringing the bells of their highest Temples.
>Gortian DuraFiber Chainmail, nano-weaved crosshair threads also used in Cybil’s pants.
>Xingastian Lumin Satin to gleam like sweet caramel and bloom the brightness of the sun.
>and Daatutephian Skiff Denim if you’re a jerky-type creature. Not even to consume—it’s like chewing tobacco at this point.

Eudora: Enjoy the delicacies the galaxy has to offer, Tineola.
>>
No. 138756 ID: a7a180
File 167098213947.png - (155.32KB , 550x550 , ink_case_of_wardrobe_malfunction.png )
138756

H-hello! Saiorse told me about this gift exchange she was joining, and I thought I'd try it myself! Lots of, interesting people here.
Cybil, I hear you're very worried about tearing your suit. Well, worry no more, this is something people around here have thought way, way too much about. Presenting: A vial of sacred ink! If your clothes get torn, you can daub this over the hole to temporarily seal it, or splash it on yourself if something's been completely torn away! It will seek out rips, tears and naughty bits on its own, almost like it's a living thing! One vial should be enough to completely cover a person for a few hours. Have a happy holiday!
>>
No. 138757 ID: 9ea24b
File 167099078989.png - (137.34KB , 500x500 , a75.png )
138757

John and Olivia continue to be a piece of the background, as easy to ignore as a homeless person panhandling on a busy street corner. John feels a pain in his heart that's probably some radiation side effect.

"We live in a society." He mumbles into the cold glass.

Olivia nods in somber agreement.
>>
No. 138759 ID: 11f77a
File 167103870084.png - (373.90KB , 830x692 , mothgals_1.png )
138759

expensive food tearing noises
>>
No. 138760 ID: 11f77a
File 167103885140.png - (309.80KB , 830x692 , mothgals_2.png )
138760

"Hey! Hey what are you doing to my shop?! You're ruining everything! Get back here and pay for those!!"

"Somebody stop them!"
>>
No. 138761 ID: ca2950
File 167105292351.png - (209.94KB , 1028x474 , jiii.png )
138761

Keimi: "Alright! Now that we've dealt with that, we can get drinks and snacks and sing songs in keys never intended by the original composers!"

Alex: "We still get a gift from someone here. I wonder what it'll be?"

Keimi: "I don't know. It could be anything. Kind of exciting to wonder what... it... could... beeee."

"Does something seem weird and creepy around here to you?"

Alex: "Nah. The last one was the creepy one. This one is the bright and jolly one."

Keimi: "Y-Yeah..."

Keimi is unnerved by an uncanny window display. How is that going to draw business to the store?
>>
No. 138764 ID: c5f793

>>138751
>I never wanted to change into this form again after... last time

Is this the Form she took during one of the ass days to prove to everyone she’s got it where it counts as well?
>>
No. 138766 ID: 629f2e
File 167108128155.png - (8.53KB , 500x500 , SS22-5.png )
138766

“Uses gas-related weaponry.”

That line stuck out to you. In the descriptor of your giftee, it was the most concrete lead you were given on what you might make for them.

Since Teacher Chi had decided this was part of your studies, it was important to come up with something fitting if possible. A bad grade wouldn’t be detrimental, you doubt that this assignment will even be officially graded. It’s more about keeping her opinion of you high. Her generosity has had a massive impact on your and your brother’s lives, but you can’t take it for granted. You have to impress her with this.

Coming up with ideas is hard. [CREATIVITY] has never been your strong suit, and so you latched onto that one clue as though it were the sole lifeboat aboard a sinking ship. What could RUNESCRIPTING do with gas?

Well, an ABSORPTION rune written in YELLOW syntax can be used to absorb GASSES. That seemed as good a place to start as any.

It took a few days of banging your head against the metaphorical wall. By the end, you had something. Once the idea was formed, actually constructing the device was far less difficult. It wasn’t without some failed attempts and trips back to the drawing board. Linking three runes is still a bit difficult for you, and you needed to do it on a rather small metal container.

By the end of the week though, you have something to present to your teacher, just in time for the event’s deadline.

Chi: “So, what did you come up with?”
Clark: “My giftee, Victor, commonly uses gas-related weaponry. What I’ve built is a gas storage container able to fill itself on its own via ABSORPTION.”
Chi: “Ooh, that’s an interesting idea! What others runes are you using?”
Clark: “A TRIGGER rune tied to two SENSORS. The first is a pressure sensor to activate the ABSORPTION.”
Clark: “The second is a gas sensor on the interior to deactivate the ABSORPTION when it’s at capacity. The first sensor can also be used to deactivate this manually.”
Chi: “Well-considered. Safety functions are important.”
Chi: “Have you checked to make sure the internal sensor won’t activate when the gas releases? If the rune is set up to only detect a change in whether it’s detecting the level of gas expected–”
Clark: “It took a bit of work, but I’m sure that won’t happen... anymore.”

The premature deactivation had been one of the hardest bugs to work out. The solution ended up being an adjustment to the rune so that it sent out its signal on gas detection, but not when the signal ended. Discovering that had taken a bit of experimentation and luck.

Clark: “The rim of the container is corked to keep the gas in. To release it, you just have to pop it out. It takes a good amount of force to get it out, but it should be replaced every few months.”

She stands up and walks around the canister, picking it up to examine closely. You keep a cool face, but on the inside you’re sweating bullets as her judgment draws near.
>>
No. 138767 ID: 629f2e
File 167108140197.png - (10.52KB , 500x500 , SS22-6.png )
138767

After what feels like an eternity... She nods. You let out a breath you hadn’t even realized you were holding.

There are a few notes she has on the overall design, but most of them are about improvements that you might be able to implement once you improve and can link more runes. The only points she makes that apply to you as you are now have to do with the practical aspects, the form of the container and sealing method mainly. You pay close attention to every point she has, and will keep them in mind on your next project.

As much as you’d like to try and improve on the current model, your time is up. Teacher Chi helps you wrap the gift up before you send it off to Victor. You hope he’s able to get some use out of it.

...Is it selfish to hope Teacher Chi will want to buy the design like the last one?

Merry Christmas to Victor of Port Team Echo! Clark hopes you enjoy your new Auto-Fill Gas Container.
>>
No. 138768 ID: 9ea24b
File 167112417912.png - (104.17KB , 500x500 , a77.png )
138768

>>138761
"They're coming over! This is our chance." Olivia looks around for any props that could make her look more infirm and spots a bright red bowl of punch. Great for midnight parties in the woods AND making a mess of her clothes.

She purposefully fumbles a ladle full on herself and lies on the ground like she slipped. John uses his unnatural ability to summon flies during winter to complete the effect. Surely this will make a most wonderful experiential gift!
>>
No. 138772 ID: 1015ea
File 167114543273.png - (761.34KB , 1000x1000 , Chrimbo202201.png )
138772

Another day of winter merriment descends on Site 70 in this metanarrative gift exchange.
Who shall be the lucky recipient this time?
With the heroes more experienced with the multi-narrative-verse indisposed after their adventures in the tiny beach this year, the responsibility of gift-giving falls on the two outcasts who've found friendship in one another.

"So what's this you've signed us up for, Nickel?"
Though she cannot see, the blind swordmaster can detect the outline of a thin folder in her little buddy's hands.
"A gift exchange. It would be an interesting opportunity to participate in a multiverse-oriented activity. We may receive something interesting in return. The tabletop campaign that Argine received last time made for some interesting game nights."

To some people, there were better games than ones involving dice. For Astrolysis, her favourite one usually involved knives and attempted stabbings.
"Did you ask them for weapons?"

Nickel shakes her head. The whims of random chance were in a sense, their own challenge to overcome.
"The gift exchange is anonymous and we cannot control what we receive."

The swordmaster considers this drawback for a moment.
"So there's a CHANCE we'll get something we can stab someone with?"
A pause.

"Yes. But we have to give something in return."
Astrolysis claps her hands together. A present! In other words, a REWARD OF CONQUEST.
"Then let's get started! I want a present."
>>
No. 138773 ID: 1015ea
File 167114544867.png - (643.00KB , 1000x1000 , Chrimbo202202.png )
138773

The duo relocates to a more appropriate work environment.
"So who's our target?"

"An individual named Francis. An outworlder."
Nickel opens the folder, where she finds some crayon scribbles inside, next to the actual file.

"I thought he was some kid wearin' a scarf. Apparently this guy's got a neck cone on? And this one's a lizard too. That's weird."

Nickel cocks her head.
"And how do you know that, Astrolysis? I thought you haven't been in contact with the Outworlders this season."
After the dynamic duo's brief stint at the carnival, Site 70 had most unfortunately banned them from participating in future celebrations.

"Someone was whispering it in my dreams."
Nickel decides to ignore that comment.

"The target's choice of clothing doesn't matter. What's necessary is that we provide a good gift."

"Why? If they said we need to make a gift, then couldn't we just send him, I dunno, rocks or something?"

Nickel prods the side of her buddy's chest, prompting no reaction.
"Because that is not in the spirit of the event. If everyone did that, then nobody would get anything they want."

Thoughtfully, Astrolysis licked her chops. Yes, that made sense. What an odd holiday practice, giving gifts like this!
With her curiosity satisfied, her mind wanders away from the immediate task.

"I also heard that there was a party on."
At least, it sure sounded like a party. Whatever communication devices they use to contact other worlds seemed to pick up a lot of joyous chatter and merriment.
"Are we gonna crash it?"

"We weren't invited. It would be rude."
>>
No. 138774 ID: 1015ea
File 167114548314.png - (0.99MB , 1350x1100 , Chrimbo202203.png )
138774

Tapping on the folder, Nickel brings Astrolysis' attention back to the immediately pressing task.
"But what're we even gettin' that cone-neck anyway? Feels like he's kinda hard to get gifts for."

She thinks on it for a moment. What would SHE like to get as a gift?
"What about a BIG KNIFE?"

In a manner of speaking, he already had one.
"No, I think the other Francis would've liked that one more. This Francis already has a sword. It is apparently very attached to him."

Silhouettes of a half-man, half-weapon abomination appeared in Astrolysis' mind.
"So like... he's got a sword for an arm?"
If so, she just HAD to challenge him to a fight. Their battle would be legendary!

"No. The sword has a personality and would likely reject any other weapons given to him."
Astrolysis deflates, previous delusions of grand combat dissipating into a disappointing image of a familiar nuisance.
"So like that slimy freak who can turn into a scarf."

And much like a vampire, the mere mention of the individual in question invites ill portents. Wait, is that how vampires work again?
"Did someone mention meeeeee~?"

The two gift-givers nearly jump out of their seat, seeing the accursed purple wench intrude on their private sanctuary.

"We don't have anything to say to you!"
How could such a being exist? No smell, constantly changing form...
It wasn't like a person that you could identify, got to understand over time. Truly, something otherworldly and unpleasant.

Astrolysis stands, reaching for a sword that wasn't there. Oh right. That had been confiscated in advance, in case she got any funny ideas. It wouldn't be right having to pay exorbitant furniture replacement fees in this season.
"I'm going to cut you into bits if you don't leave."

She of course, still had her claws.
The purple wench is unaffected by the threat, likely owing to her perceived intangibility.
"Ohohoho, don't worry, I'm not here to fight, I'm here to help you with the gift since you seem to be having so much trouble!"

Their fur bristles at the thought of her intervention. But they ultimately had different ideas as to what was necessary.
"We don't need your help. We can do this ourselves."
With gritted teeth, the little sniper disagrees.
"She makes a good point, Astrolysis. It's true - the purple monster is more informed than us when it comes to the matters of the heart."

Astrolysis scowls. Why did everything have to be so complicated? It would be so much more convenient if a gift exchange as as simple as exchanging blows.
"But do we have to listen to her? Anyone with that kind of scent around them ain't worth trusting."

"Our odds of success are lower if we do not consult with her on this idea. This is a necessary sacrifice."
Astrolysis looks as if she wants to say something but sits back into her chair forcefully, almost snapping its legs.

"Fine. She can stay. but if she tries something weird, I'm stabbing her."
The purple weirdo seems elated.
"I'm looking forward to it!"

Hopefully it wasn't going to be too long of an evening.
>>
No. 138775 ID: 1015ea
File 167114550537.png - (364.04KB , 1000x1000 , Chrimbo202204.png )
138775

With the snake invited into the flow of things, she hovers outside of stabbing distance as she cranes her neck to look over the gathered material.
She leans in, a glint in her eye.

"Well what's his deal? Skillset? Any loved ones?"
Just as if you were to plan out an assassination, understanding your 'victim' is key to a successful gift-giving exchange.

"He's a skilled swordsman with the ability to see the future, an artefact that lets him form devices and constructs out of light itself and a talking sword."

Truly, a staggering array of skills. If only he had a better work ethic!
"Oh, a talking sword? That gives me ideas for later, but as someone who's spent some time as a talking accessory, I'm sure I can provide some insight into what a good gift would be."

From one shapeshifting object-person to another, there was no question that Amica was an excellent advisor... right?

The ideas started flowing, just like how she flows over countertops.
"So how about a holster? Being... tied up, all nice and slug while someone lugs you around, I'm sure that would be exciting for some people and comfy too!"

"No. His weapon has many forms, so one holster would be ill-suited for his purposes. Besides, it is intended as a gift for Francis, not his allies. We would be missing the point otherwise."

Oh. A complication!
She ponders for a second.
"Oh! I know what would be the best gift in this case!"

"Why not a set of EXOTIC OILS and other HIGH QUALITY TOOL MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES?"
Amica laughs, her crimson teeth glistening under the dim room lights.
"You know... being covered in oil and given a full-body rubdown, I'm sure that some individuals would deeply appreciate that. After all, if there's one thing Site 70 is known for, it's taking proper care of our tools, right?"

She makes a most curious gesture, one which neither of her audience members really understood.

Astrolysis and Nickel look toward each other, processing the idea.
"She makes a good point. To take care of your tools or friends is something anyone can appreciate - and is enough of an activity that it doesn't qualify as mere work."

"Yeah. And I know where to get some of that stuff myself. Dunno if they've got stuff of the same quality we've got, so I could put something together.

A nodding of heads. A good idea. This wasn't a waste of time. Sufficient.
"This works. Let's be off and find the requisite supplies, Astro."

"Mmkay. Let's go. 'Preciate it, gooey freak."

The two depart, on an adventure of their own to look for adequate reciprocity.
The slithering pile of nanomachines grins, knowing that she in fact, did a good job.
>>
No. 138776 ID: 1015ea
File 167114553536.png - (590.29KB , 1000x1000 , Chrimbo202205.png )
138776

And after much tribulation... the task is complete.
Some of the finest oils and lubricants that any carbon-based object could appreciate, magical or scientific in nature. A fancy bottle to keep it all in, too.
A resilient whetstone of proper carry size and caliber!
And of course, the leather strop you'll be using to wipe off all the mess at the very end. If things prove too wet and slippery, it should still be no problem for a skilled adventurer as dear Francis.

I'm sure there's no other implications that this toolset could provide. But maybe it's something familiar for our dear recipient, considering his past career in the hugging industry.

The duo have already sent it through the mail. Hopefully it all ends up in the right place.
Merry Winterholidaymas, Francis and Friends! From the clones over at Site 70.
>>
No. 138778 ID: ca2950
File 167115745352.png - (266.49KB , 1024x768 , crime scene.png )
138778

Keimi is horrified by the corpse in the road. Obviously in an advanced state of decay. Who could have so brutally mangled this creature in the state its currently in? So pitiful. So pathetic. No light of life or intelligence in its dead, empty eyes.

Truly a terrible thing to see.

Alex: "I'm calling the cops!"
>>
No. 138781 ID: 681cb5
File 167120065133.png - (34.46KB , 700x550 , SandClaw1.png )
138781

Bones collected from the most fearsome of beasts…
>>
No. 138782 ID: 681cb5
File 167120066618.png - (98.65KB , 700x550 , SandClaw2.png )
138782

Essence from our mightiest hunters…
>>
No. 138783 ID: 681cb5
File 167120068236.png - (192.04KB , 700x700 , SandClaw3.png )
138783

Bound together by the will of the very gods themselves…
>>
No. 138784 ID: 681cb5
File 167120070014.png - (125.23KB , 700x550 , SandClaw4.png )
138784

:MaphetLAV: …and add some gold and you’ll get this lovely little charm, all for you Eudora, my dear. It will fit well as both an amulet to be worn around your neck, a bracer fasten around your wrist, a brooch or maybe even as a lucky charm. Oh, it is also a possible gift for your significant other, so they may remember you when you are away, hmm?

:MaphetLAV: As a symbol that is representing you, a substitute if you will, that has been blessed by the very goddess of Change and Cultivation, Ptamet, this is far more than just a pretty trinket. When you decide to change your form and this bauble is nearby, Ptamet will send you her aid and allow your new form to be even better than ever before, be it stronger, faster, harder or even fluffier! It also has the side effect of making you more attractive to your peers and more fertile, but as you don’t seem interested in that… May her grace allow you to continue to grow and become ever more skilled, Eudora the Scarab.

:MaphetLAV: Just… um… ignore any whispers you might hear from the souls imprisoned inside it. *Cough* …did I mention that the eyes are real rubies?

As a cold wind blows past the small charm, rustling it in Maphet grip, it is almost as if there’s an barely audible voice whispering, ”…show me your tits…”
>>
No. 138785 ID: 681cb5
File 167120071814.png - (207.47KB , 700x550 , SandClaw5.png )
138785

:PesiLAV: A-are y-you sure t-this was for m-me!?
:MaphetLAV: Of course, dear. After all, this Hoth koko drink was clearly intended for me… and you know that black isn’t my color.
:PesiLAV: But d-do I really n-need to wear it r-right now!? I’m f-freezing my ass o-off!
:MaphetLAV: Pesi, dear, we need to show how grateful we are for these fine gift we received from the ever lovely Jynn Kara. You don’t want to disappoint our partner in this Sand Claws ritual, do you? Mmm… this is an amazing drink by the way, Jynn… you have to show me how I can make some of my own back home.
:PesiLAV: *Shudder*
:MaphetLAV: Let me just express my eternal gratitude, Jynn, we will remember your charity always.
:PesiLAV: Shouldn’t y-you have at least g-gotten us something a bit w-warmer!? T-this white sand is f-freezing!
:MaphetLAV: …alright, Pesi, you may go and change into something warmer. You’re scaring away all the other guests of this little get together… after all, I need to find someone that can summon this Sand Claws… and maybe form a party to see if we can take that eldritch being down… it’s bound to have some epic loot on it…
>>
No. 138786 ID: 9ea24b
File 167122785480.png - (97.69KB , 500x500 , a83.png )
138786

>>138778
The plan is working beautifully. Olivia stays completely still apart from pogging out of her mind.
>>
No. 138787 ID: 9ea24b
File 167122810543.png - (111.55KB , 500x500 , a84.png )
138787

Alex summons one of the hosts who ignores the cloth moth robbery taking place to instead consider Olivia with a critical eye. Pretty stoic guy, as far as John, who's concealed himself behind a pillar, can tell.

"She's breathing and I can smell the punch." he grunts.

"I'm very pitiful." Olivia whispers, with a wink.
>>
No. 138790 ID: 629f2e
File 167133536572.png - (16.98KB , 500x500 , SS22-7.png )
138790

Francis: “Do either of you know anything about clothing?”

The description of his giftee claimed that they were a seamstress, and thus clothing seemed the obvious place to start. Perhaps she’d be interested in styles from another world?

Lilith: “My only interaction with clothes is when they get in the way of cutting through flesh.”
Lilith: “Actually, that’s not totally true. I had this one wielder like 80 years before I got trapped in that spire who had taken a Vow of Pacifism.
Francis: “Really? That seems like something you’d hate.”
Lilith: “Nah, we still fought plenty. Gal would just shred her opponent’s clothes or shave the fur off their intimates to make ‘em surrender.”
Lilith: “Turns out, most people don’t like fighting with all their bits hanging out.”
Lilith: “...Except for some [WILD]-kin. A lot of ‘em actually prefer it.”
Judith: “That partner of which you speak. Was their name, perhaps, Laney?
Lilith: “Huh? Yeah, how’d you know?”
Judith: “Laney, The Knight of Peace. I can’t speak for present-day common knowledge, but she was a hero of legend right before the spire claimed myself.”

She turns to Francis for his input. He shakes his head, as he had never heard of her. Tough to say whether that was lackluster education on his part, or her story simply fading from public knowledge over time.

Francis: “...Wait, we’re getting a bit off topic, aren’t we?”
Judith: “To answer the original question, I do have some knowledge about clothing.”
Judith: “Without knowing the history of the tailor’s world though, I can’t know if anything we send would impress her.”
Francis: “Right... I guess we should go with something else then.”
Judith: “Perhaps some magical artifacts to compliment the marvelous lens she uses? I know the location of some that were buried within a few days' travel from here.”
Lilith: “Treasure hunt quest?”
Francis: “No.”
Lilith: “You are the KING of NO FUN!”
Francis: “The lens was mentioned as something private. Giving a gift that tells her we know about it would probably just embarrass her.”

He rereads the description for confirmation. “Has a magical lens with a variety of sight filters, several of which are helpful to her craft. Keeps the utility a secret, as the X-Ray filter could make her seem like a pervert.”

It seemed strange to mention at all, but it was probably to prevent anyone from giving her something she already had. Perhaps magical monocles are common gifts for seamstresses?

Judith: “The Lethargic Lizard raises a decent point.”
Francis: “...Oh!”
Judith: “Oh?”
Francis: “I just thought of something while rereading this. I think I know what to get her.”
Lilith: “Will it be difficult to get?”
Francis: “Not really.”

She sighs, shifting into a toilet plunger to reflect her mood. Francis pets her gently, eliciting purrs.

Francis: “I did promise you a spar for helping, didn’t I? Maybe we can visit Millie on our way to the market?”

That perks her up. In the end, she’s the one rushing him out the door.
>>
No. 138791 ID: 629f2e
File 167133542520.png - (18.63KB , 500x500 , SS22-8.png )
138791

...

After a nice match and a visit to the local market, Francis had achieved all of his goals. His friend Millie had put up a nice enough fight to satisfy Lilith, he didn’t forget to pick up something for dinner, and he found the perfect Cookbook while looking around.

Lilith: “I still think it’s a little basic.”
Francis: “Maybe, but I think she’ll like it. Isn’t that what matters most? She likes good food, and now she’ll have recipes to make more at home.”
Judith: “What style of cooking did you pick out?”
Francis: “I wasn’t sure what her favorite was, but this was written by a chef who traveled to a lot of different places. It should be pretty varied, I think.”

He wraps the gift up with a bow, and then takes the tickets he was given with the initial letter.

Francis: “Do either of you want to come to the festival with me?”
Judith: “Hmm, as fun as it would be, I think it’s best I avoid other realities. There’s a chance that I might be there already, which would be awkward.”
Francis: “That makes sense. I don’t really understand it, but I’m sure it does.”
Lilith: “I’d better tag along, just in case you run into anyone really strong there.”
Francis: “...I really thought fighting Millie would have sated you for longer.”
Lilith: “Oh it did, I feel waaaaaay better now. Doesn’t mean I’ll turn down an opportunity to fight again though.”
Francis: “Fair enough.”

Francis tears two tickets, opening a portal to another plane. Lilith shifts into a parasol to block the snow, as Francis carries her and his present towards the festival.

Merry Christmas to Saiorse of Clothing Repair! Francis really hopes you enjoy your Cookbook, featuring delicacies from all throughout the land of Curio.
>>
No. 138794 ID: a7a180
File 167143209859.png - (77.02KB , 500x500 , tastes_like_fashion.png )
138794

>>138753
Ish delishus! Thanksh Eudora! Yu're sho shweet... Letsh go shopping t'gther agin shometime.
>>
No. 138795 ID: 9b127b
File 167150178347.png - (668.72KB , 927x1115 , QueenGift.png )
138795

Chinzebeth: "To the esteemed Elder stone who I assume is already bowing in my presence beneath my sight I present you on behalf of my world of Beta-Earatone a miniaturized Veldfield Starship fitting of any true authority, in the unlikely chance you aren't already in my presence I have placed it in this protective glass shield that only your kind can access, may it serve you and your people well."
>>
No. 138800 ID: ca2950
File 167158575977.png - (137.01KB , 613x589 , storming.png )
138800

Keimi: "I don't want to deal with weird, stalker, insurance fraud, tourist scammers or whatever this is. Let's go find our gift people and get ourselves a weird alien artifact."

Keimi storms off, leaving Olivia to wallow in self-pity, cheap hooch and road slush.
>>
No. 138801 ID: 9ea24b
File 167158750056.png - (124.28KB , 500x500 , a90a.png )
138801

>>138800
John jumps out in front of Keimi to stop her from fleeing. "Don't you see? This is your gi-"
>>
No. 138802 ID: 9ea24b
File 167158754058.png - (137.16KB , 500x500 , a90b.png )
138802

Keimi reacts to this with her honed monster fighting techniques.
>>
No. 138805 ID: 9b127b
File 167164240724.png - (1.45MB , 739x981 , KoPxmas8.png )
138805

A bell rings as a shutter lifts

Xiatsu: "The holiday trading post is now open! As a reminder moths are still banded to to prior issues we will not mention. otherwise all trades are welcome!"

* * *

Xiatsu:"I would now like to begin with the winner of the trading post's holiday raffle!"

Xiatsu dips a hand into a jar filled with bits of paper

Xiatsu: "Ah! the winner is . . . Olivia and John! Congratulations! you have won this wonderful festive latern! please collect it at your earliest convenience!"
>>
No. 138806 ID: dc13c4
File 167166195023.jpg - (90.78KB , 344x346 , BB 988.jpg )
138806

>>138795
Abdle: "Our target is finally made her grand entrance, now is our time to give her a fitting gift. What are you even doing?!"
>>
No. 138807 ID: dc13c4
File 167166201623.jpg - (87.25KB , 277x355 , BB 989.jpg )
138807

Bobbie: "I am just looking at the great feast, I wonder just how many living beings were slaughtered in order to satisfy the gelatinous appetites. I just want to see all of them choke on what they eat."
>>
No. 138808 ID: dc13c4
File 167166208053.jpg - (89.51KB , 547x434 , BB 990.jpg )
138808

Abdle: "Oh great is this what you will be obsessed with this month? I swear to the hellfires that you are willing to do anything rather than help me with my plans."
>>
No. 138809 ID: dc13c4
File 167166214209.jpg - (103.79KB , 660x340 , BB 991.jpg )
138809

Abdle: "Yes yes, our troops finally got my message and are starting to get into position. It is time to impress the unimpressible!"
>>
No. 138810 ID: dc13c4
File 167166222701.jpg - (301.20KB , 1034x785 , BB 992.jpg )
138810

Narrator: "Out of nowhere a group of trumpet-playing goblins started to produce what could be called a dramatical entrance piece."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbiJhvcC-MQ&ab_channel=Robinking6221
>>
No. 138811 ID: dc13c4
File 167166232414.jpg - (224.47KB , 560x814 , BB 993.jpg )
138811

Goblin Noble: "We the negotiation diligences come to this merry city bearing a gift for the illustrious and kind, her majesty Queen Chinzebeth the seventh. May her rain last for a long and prosperous time!"
>>
No. 138812 ID: dc13c4
File 167166239665.jpg - (120.15KB , 532x722 , BB 994.jpg )
138812

Goblin Noble: "We also represent the ruling house, we are the servants of Bobbie the queen of monsters, and her demonic apple Abdle."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ci5MAAvlUfI&ab_channel=SorcererZarok
>>
No. 138813 ID: dc13c4
File 167166248289.jpg - (91.12KB , 620x281 , BB 995.jpg )
138813

Goblin Noble: "Jester do the honors and unfold the red carpet."

Jester Goblin: "With pleasure!"
>>
No. 138814 ID: dc13c4
File 167166253279.jpg - (81.39KB , 686x359 , BB 996.jpg )
138814

Narrator: "The red carpet started rolling towards Chinzebeth."
>>
No. 138815 ID: dc13c4
File 167166259892.jpg - (301.27KB , 1493x1055 , BB 997.jpg )
138815

Narrator: "Only problem is that some filthy present was laying on the route where the red carpet was unfolding. Well, what can you do, other than to improvise. Things like this tend to happen."
>>
No. 138816 ID: dc13c4
File 167166282644.jpg - (419.26KB , 1181x989 , BB 998.jpg )
138816

Narrator: "As the goblin maiden threw confetti, she managed to accidentally step on the wolf thing and it made a sound. It is up to you readers to choose what sound he made. There are some possible choices underneath"

Pain voice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJyNWvIoPyc&ab_channel=Trickytheclown
Realization voice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szHL15o6nPE&ab_channel=Dabathhouse
Poetic voice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_iNK9U07yw&ab_channel=Sarojam
Freedom voice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzCn-G18RTA&ab_channel=SoundEFFECTS%E2%9D%B6
Lois voice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Skm2qB_fio&ab_channel=PrangMantis
Toy voice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGi2v_OOs_w&ab_channel=RocioAlvear
>>
No. 138817 ID: dc13c4
File 167166290296.jpg - (155.53KB , 704x567 , BB 999.jpg )
138817

Goblin Noble: "May I present to you this magical jester staff that can see things in your future. I hope this gift helps you while you rule."
>>
No. 138824 ID: a7a180
File 167168043640.png - (49.01KB , 500x502 , the_bad_moth_taketh_and_the_good_moth_giveth.png )
138824

>>138805
A daring moth sneaks in under the table to leave an apology gift and a note for the storekeeper!
Dear Xiatsu,
I do apologize for my behavior with Eudora earlier! I can sometimes make very poor decisions when I'm hungry. To make up for it, I've knitted these claw mittens for you from the Chupian yarn I received. I've added a personal touch to them as well. I hope they are warm and comfy for you.
-Tineola Fidgetwing

>>
No. 138825 ID: 9b127b
File 167169251316.png - (666.88KB , 927x1115 , QueenGift2.png )
138825

>>138817

one of queen Chinzebeth's many servants collect the rod and hand it to her.

Chinzebeth:"Your respect and show of adoration will not be forgotten you have earned an ally I think with such a find gift too our person. Indeed I was in need of a new scepter and this one's qualities seem most exciting.
I am pleased this day, thank you.[/i]
>>
No. 138828 ID: 9ea24b
File 167172586747.png - (132.61KB , 500x500 , a92b.png )
138828

>>138816
"PEEEEEEETTTTAAAAAAHHHHH!!!"
>>
No. 138829 ID: dc13c4

>>138828
I see you have chosen the correct answer
>>
No. 138830 ID: dc13c4
File 167174665850.jpg - (323.96KB , 926x876 , BB 1000.jpg )
138830

>>138825
Bobbie: "I am glad that you like the gift and if I may add you truly dress as royalty. As for myself, I could say that I was part of two kingdoms but both of them last the splendor which you possess."

Abdle: "We are more of a rising power, still kinda lacking in the power part but are yet finished with our growth."
>>
No. 138831 ID: dc13c4
File 167174671592.jpg - (325.68KB , 989x890 , BB 1001.jpg )
138831

Bobbie: "But the main reason why we wanted to gift you with such extravagance is to form a possible alliance with your kingdom."

Abdle: "I mean it is kinda impossible to be a person in a position of power widout attracting some people who want to see you fall. Our only problem is that we kinda created more enemies than friends on our climb toward greatness."
>>
No. 138833 ID: a7a180
File 167176291826.png - (88.22KB , 500x500 , grabbing_a_snack.png )
138833

>>138700
While I appreciate the concern, I assure you we are well out of the splash zone of messy eaters. Our host has graciously brought some snacks over to us instead.
I should ask Jaina what exactly happened at that party, usually she's the more sensible sibling of the bunch...
>>
No. 138834 ID: a7a180
File 167176295007.png - (122.14KB , 500x500 , i_think_your_hats_cute.png )
138834

>>138785
*One size-changing spell later…*
Wow, thanks, your sister’s magic is very powerful! She must have a strong connection with the F- er, your gods. Why yes, the outfit does look very nice on her. What am I doing later? Nothing much, why do you need to…
>>138715
-Oh! A package for me? R-right over here!
>>
No. 138841 ID: 629f2e
File 167195442161.png - (1.01MB , 1000x1000 , SS22-9.png )
138841

You have no idea how Temmie comes up with half of the things she does.

Of course you agreed to take part in her gift exchange, and of course you were paired with people that didn’t exist. You’ve gotta give Temmie credit on how fleshed out she made your giftees though, the page she’d tossed at you was very well-written. You wouldn’t have expected her to write about Clone Super Soldiers of all things. Seems very off-theme for her.

It was nice of her to give you all of this to work with, but you almost wish she hadn’t. There’s a sense of Obligation weighing you down now to get something fitting for these two. It’s stupid, considering these aren’t real people, but then you consider that Temmie is real. You don’t want to make her feel like you aren’t respecting her game, do you?

Of course not. You agreed to participate, so you have to play along.

Still, you have two people to find a gift for, and you can’t even come up with something that’d make one of them happy. As much as you hate to admit it, you need help. There’s no way you’re going to make the time limit otherwise, what with you only having a day.

Luckily for you, there is someone you could ask. You older brother, Saihu!

He’s always someone you can rely on, though you tend to feel bad when you do. You’re taking up more of his time, and he’s already helped you plenty before. Even if he says you aren’t bothering him, he could just be saying that to be polite...

You nearly wear down your socks pacing around your room anxiously. You can’t waffle on the decision forever though, as you simply don’t have time. In the end, you ask for his help.

His immediate response to your giftee’s information is... predictable for him.

Saihu: “Nickel is definitely a Capricorn, and I read Astrolysis as an Aries, possibly a Saggitarius.
Julong: “D-Does that give you any ideas on what they might like...?”
Saihu: “It tells us many things about them... but um, not that exactly.”

You sigh. He quickly pats you on the shoulder resassuringly.

Saihu: “It’s okay! We can figure something out together. There’s plenty to work with here. Temmie must have put a lot of thought into these.”
Julong: “You know her, she’s really creative... Her fortunes still give me shivers.”
Saihu: “She never did tell me her divination methods... She’s such a Pisces, and I’m sure about that one since we know her birthday is–”
Saihu: “Wait... Eureka! I had an idea!”
Julong: “You did? What!?”
Saihu: “Chew Toy!
Julong: “...Huh?”

Without explanation, he rushes out of the room. You chase in hot pursuit, yet he’s already pulled down the attic stairs by the time you catch up. You follow him up into the musty room, as he explains his thoughts.

Saihu: “I checked some of the old boxes here last month looking for our telescope, and I remember one of them containing a bunch of old dog stuff.”
Julong: “But neither of the sheets made it sound like they had pets.”
Saihu: “True, but Astrolysis’ description made her sound like a Big Dog. Hairy, likes to roughhouse, friendly, undiscerning flavor palate, limited sight...”
Julong: “Limited sight?”
Saihu: “She’s blind, and dogs are colorblind. It connects!”

Saihu pulls over a box and flips it open. He quickly pulls out a blue cartoon-bone shaped rubbery chew toy. He squeezes it a few times, remarking on its firmness.

Julong: “I... You do have a point. Do you think Temmie will agree with that? I don’t want to misinterpret the characters and upset her.”
Saihu: “Well, what do you think? If you think it’s bad, we can try something else.”

Good question. Astrolysis is definitely more fleshed out than a simple pet, that much you’re sure about. Treating her like a dog wouldn’t be correct. However, in terms of whether or not she’d actually like the chew toy...

Julong: “...Maybe she really would. What about Nickel though? I’m supposed to get something they could both like.”
Saihu: “Hmm, she’s tougher. What does she really enjoy, besides doing her job well?”
Julong: “Well, she’s sort of friends with Astrolysis, but they have really different tastes. Still, they spend time with each other, so there has to be some common ground...”

You run your hand across your leg in circles, processing those facts. Suddenly, one thought rams to the front of your mind. You dig through the box Saihu dragged over and pull out a Collar and Leash, as well as a Tennis Ball. An idea had struck you.

Julong: “Maybe some things they could do together?”
Saihu: “That could work. Why don’t we just dump all the non-dog stuff out of this box and just wrap it up?”
Julong: “Is mom okay with that?”
Saihu: “We can ask during dinner. Before that, let’s find where she keeps the wrapping paper...”
>>
No. 138842 ID: 629f2e
File 167195449521.png - (538.08KB , 1000x1000 , SS22-10.png )
138842

...

You didn’t need to explain the whole situation with Temmie, mom simply agreed to let you take the box as there was nothing in it she needed.

Saihu: “Do you need help bringing this over to her? I think I can carry it myself if you–”
Julong: “Actually, she told me I was supposed to put it in a circle of salt somewhere.”
Saihu: “...Oh.”
Julong: “Yeah... I’ll indulge her, but when it’s still there I’m just going to give it to her at school tomorrow.”
Julong: “Assuming we still have classes...”
Saihu: “...Right, they haven’t found Lemmy yet, have they?”

There was just one catastrophe after another this week. First Rodney, Phillip, and Jhonen Graduate; then Lemmy Vanishes without a trace; and just today JoJo apparently ended up in the Hospital! You visited her after class to try and check up on her, but she didn’t have much to say beyond a few jabs at your appearance.

Julong: “Some of the younger kids keep coming to me for answers, but nobody’s told me anything. I don’t know any more than they do. I’m no help to anyone right now...”
Saihu: “Hey, that’s not your fault. It’s not your fault they aren’t giving you what you need to help kids feel safe.”
Julong: “I know... But I wish I could do more. Anything.

He holds up the freshly wrapped box, nudging you with it.

Saihu: “This counts as something, doesn’t it?”
Julong: “...Barely.”
Saihu: “Barely counts still means it counts though, right?”

You take the box, smiling softly.

Julong: “...It’s a start.”
Julong: “I want to talk to Mrs. Chamberlane tomorrow. Maybe she can tell me something I can relay to the others to help ease tensions.”
Saihu: “If you need help, you can always send more kids to me. Y’know, just a few, not ALL of them.”
Saihu: “I think Enid found some appreciation for meditation at least. She really needed it...”
Julong: “I’ll try to check up on her tomorrow too, see if she’s feeling better.”

You part ways for the night. The last thing you do is set the box on your desk, and pour a thin circle of salt around it. Hopefully mom wouldn’t notice such a small amount missing.

Soon afterwards you fall asleep, dreaming of a fantastical festival filled with strange yet friendly beings, fun activities and offerings, and so much snow...

Despite the actual date, you find a small touch of the holiday spirit in your dreams...
>>
No. 138843 ID: 629f2e
File 167195461758.png - (355.61KB , 1000x1000 , SS22-11.png )
138843

...

Pascoe: “Wrapped box, circle of salt... Yep, this is it.”

The avian postal worker collects the large box, placing a smaller box in its place. He takes it to the open window where his team is waiting.

Pilot: “Find it easily?”
Pascoe: “Almost immediately. Temmie’s directions were very clear.”
Ecoa: “Pass it down, and then let’s go already. We don’t want to be late.”
Pascoe: “I-I know, I know...”
Ecoa: “Again.
Pascoe: “I said I was sorry!”

Merry Christmas to Nickel and Astrolysis of Last Trace! Julong really just hopes you aren’t offended by the Dog Toys he gave you. The box includes chew toys, collars and leashes (at least one big enough to fit around Astrolysis’ neck if you dare), tennis balls, and even some nice thick rope toys.
>>
No. 138855 ID: 9ea24b
File 167218153554.png - (130.42KB , 500x500 , a103.png )
138855

>>138805
Olivia is tired of lying in the cold slush and being occasionally trampled on. She leaves John the task of explaining their experiential gift and heads to Xiatsu's storefront to pick up their prize, a lovely festive lamp. Beautiful items are almost nonexistent where she's from and beautiful flammable items are an extinct species. Olivia thanks Xiatsu and goes back to the karaoke building to warm up.
>>
No. 138856 ID: 87e33c
File 167218509061.png - (146.07KB , 500x500 , a4.png )
138856

> ALP DAGA - FOOD TABLE WITH SAIORSE
Saiorse: Wow, I didn't realize the appeal of such a niche market!
Gena: Sounds more like the niche market is your whole market over there.
Gena: Though we've got instant communication for easy access to subgroups and content all around the globe
Saiorse: Globe?
Saiorse: Wait, the material plane isn't flat?!
Saiorse: That's what plane means!
Gena: Oh no, you're a flat faunian, criiiiinge


A buzzing can be heard coming from Gena's pants, she holds a hand up to Saoirse as she pulls out her COMM. The notification reads PRESENT TIME.

Gena: OOH, Gotta go, byeeeeeeeeeeeee
>>
No. 138858 ID: 87e33c
File 167218520703.png - (127.32KB , 500x500 , a5.png )
138858

> ALP DAGA - ELDER STONE
> Gena receives the FORMICAN FORCE FIVE stationary kit
Gena: OH MY GODDESS YES
Gena: Your secret is safe with me Oh-Great-Elder-Sama!
Gena: I go through probably too many glitter pens for my adoring internet fans!
Gena: Or uh, used to, before the whole apocalypse thing.
Gena: Now I just go through the normal amount.


She takes a seat next to Elder Stone and promptly places the most edgy looking sticker on the backside of her COMM. She also discreetly measuring her with the ruler out of sheer curiosity. She then pulls open her pocket a comically large distance, and puts the rest of the contents inside.

Gena loved her present, thanks Elder Stone (and Giant Hat too!)
Have a happy Holidays!

>>
No. 138859 ID: 87e33c
File 167218525155.png - (89.93KB , 500x500 , a6.png )
138859

> ALP DAGA - PRESENT DEPOSITORY TABLE
Gena gets up, bows to the elder, and waddles off past the food table to another table, one she is physically labeling as the [PRESENT DEPOSITORY TABLE] using her new glitter pens.

Gena: It is time....
Gena: To write a very glittery present note!


She pulls open her comically large pocket and digs around in it for a moment before pulling out a tote-bag covered in hearts, trees, and bells, its contents containing one rolled up poster in a tube, and a moderately sized wrapped box. She then pulls out the other glitter pen and some stationary with her face on the bottom right hand corner.

Dear SARAH HANCHETT,

Hi, happy space christmas!! ノ´ヮ´)ノ*:・゚✧

I dunno if you're safe now, your included infodump didn't have that information, but hope that you are! otherwise this present will be kind of pointless!!! (◞д◟)

You already have superpowers and I can't really give you anything cooler than telekinesis, really. BUT I'LL STILL INCLUDE THIS DINKY RING!! ♪o<( ´∀`)っ

It's an inter-spatial ring that can hold around half a cubic meter of stuff in it, we have way too many of them at this point from dungeon dives and honestly it's the most boring part of the gift, sorry. (✿◡‿◡)

The real gift is the poster and boxset for the Wanomated adaptation of SPACE WORMS (in space!) (tm). It's a spinoff of a reboot of a really old franchise called BRAIN WORMS. SPACE WORMS is about this alien planet that was discovered that had space worms on it that burrowed into people's belly buttons and then bursted out into larger, more adaptable big worm things that sometimes grew arms and big teeth and other cool stuff! °˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖°

The CGI for the monsters is laughably bad until the second season, but that just makes it funny instead. It's not over-acted and the voice actors really get in the zone so it's easy to suspend your disbelief. There's like 69 episodes (heh) of the show and it actually has an ending! Also included is the original live action movie, but I thought it wasn't as cool as the Wanomated version. (-‿◦)

OH, and the poster tube has like 3 posters, one of me and my pals cosplaying as the characters we did for one Hallow's Night. The other is an official signed poster of RIP-LAY, the protagonist, signed by both the voice actress and the original actor, and the other is of the alien worm! (๑✧∀✧๑)

I hope you like it!
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO - Gena


Have a happy holiday Sarah (June Quest) Hanchett!!
Hope you like it Anon44!!

>>
No. 138860 ID: 9b127b
File 167220651911.png - (1.43MB , 739x981 , KoPxmas9.png )
138860

>>138824

Xiatsu: "Oh! some warm mits for my claws, how kind of this Tineola woman, I'm not sure I understand most of this message but she seems to be making amends."
>>
No. 138865 ID: a7a180
File 167230182945.png - (151.17KB , 800x800 , breathtaking_selfie.png )
138865

>>138858
*SNAP*

Ah, such... Warm memories.
>>
No. 138867 ID: 11f77a
File 167234003772.png - (1.38MB , 830x692 , cyb1.png )
138867

Cybil: Hello Xiatsu! Sibbs here. I’ve gotten the message that I’m your secret santa this year. I don’t know if I’ll be able to make it to Alp Daga--as I’m currently trying to escape a tripod prison takeover on one of those asteroid colonies.

Cybil: You know how it is.

BANG BANG
>>
No. 138868 ID: 11f77a
File 167234012907.png - (1.35MB , 830x692 , cyb2.png )
138868

Cybil: Anyhoo. I’m attaching your gift to this drone to deliver to you--as well as sending out a distress signal so we could get some back-up from the Vaal-Gaar Assembly.

Cybil: The tripods have already broken into the ‘leg room’. The south wing has been blown open and jettisoned all the rations into space. And all the gortians had their faces revealed. And may have also jettisoned into space.

BANG

Mob: In here! She’s in here!!

Cybil: They’re at my door right now. I only have two shock pellets, an assortment of sterilized silly straws, and a #1 Prison Warden coffee mug to fend myself.

Cybil: Oh! And for you I’m sending a Jade Hairpin of my design ♥ I’ve been crafting in-between inventions. Kind of therapeutic.

Cybil: Well it’s not really jade... it’s a blue jade I guess. Some blue rock.

Cybil: And it lights up. There's a tiny switch.

Cybil: Byeeeee!
>>
No. 138869 ID: 11f77a
File 167234023784.png - (1.07MB , 830x692 , cyb3.png )
138869

///LAUNCHING...

THERE SHE IS! GET HER!

///LAUNCHING...

///TAKEOFF COMPLETE

BOOM! BZZZZT

AIIIEEE!!

LOOK OUT FOR THAT—

Cybil: HYAAAH!

AAH!

crack!

///CALIBRATING PACKAGE COORDINATES
>>
No. 138879 ID: a7a180
File 167245487848.png - (82.29KB , 500x500 , a_small_gesture.png )
138879

>>138795
Incredible! My eternal gratitude to you, tallman. I never expected such generosity towards my humbled people. Please, allow me to kiss your ring.
>>
No. 138880 ID: a7a180
File 167245488652.png - (98.66KB , 500x500 , down_the_hatch.png )
138880

At last, our people will travel the stars again! Ohoho, just wait 'til Styx hears about this. Ah, it's still a tight fit for us.
>>
No. 138881 ID: a7a180
File 167245489485.png - (90.15KB , 500x500 , what_can_you_do_with_a_shrunken_sailor.png )
138881

...Now er, how do I get it out of the bottle?
>>
No. 138896 ID: 629f2e
File 167263370361.png - (14.15KB , 500x500 , SS22-12.png )
138896

SHINK SHINK SHINK

“AAAAHHHMMMmmmMMmmMMmMMmmm~”

“...That’s a good moan, right? You like it?”

Lilith was trembling with a surprising amount of excitement as Francis ran her blade across the whetstone.

“Good... Very good...”

“I’ll be sure to thank Nickel and Astrolysis then.”

“Oooh, you should thank them by challenging them to a fight! I need to use this sharpness against someone!”

He thinks back on what little he’d managed to find out about his gifters by asking around.

“...I think Astrolysis might like that actually. I guess it wouldn’t hurt to send a duel request through the mail.”

“Yeeeeeesssss!”
>>
No. 138901 ID: 1015ea
File 167270034612.png - (460.99KB , 1200x1000 , Christmas2022Comeback.png )
138901

And soon, through the series of tubes and pipes travelling between multiple dimensional vortices, arrives a little supply drop for our odd-eyed duo.
Like a pair of lions devouring their meal, their hands and claws dig through the layers of wrapping paper with the force of a spoon inserted into an eye socket.

Oh, how wondrous! A pair of gifts for the two of them!
A restraining device for Nickel, for use against larger opponents. Though the cord and grip are a bit unusual, its resistance to tearing will surely make it an effective tool against even the rowdiest of opponents.

And for Astrolysis - a Jaw Strength Tester, in a morbid shape! Truly a gift well suited for someone fond of kinetic experiences!
The squeaks echo out throughout the halls of the facility.
Is it supposed to squeak?
...Well, it sure does now!

Just look at how excited the two are, showing their new gifts off to their fellow clones! Even if it wasn't a weapon, the two of them both got something just as entertaining as one!
>>
No. 138902 ID: 1015ea
File 167270036231.png - (363.02KB , 1000x1000 , ChristmasComeback2.png )
138902

But one gift remained unopened until now. The other two gifts, it was quickly apparent which belonged to which. But this final one remained a mystery - a wrapped sphere. If mysteries could be anything, then this orb was surely omnipotent.

Upon unwrapping the fuzzy sphere, it apparently revealed that...
The inside was solid.

Perhaps this was just a really strange fruit?

Sure, maybe a nerd over on the other side of the facility said something to the effect of, 'Astrolysis, that's sports equipment, you shouldn't eat it', but what kind of sports equipment is covered in fuzz and bright colors like that? It has to be some strange exotic fruit!
There was a brief duel. But it seems hunger spurred one on to fighter smarter, harder than the other.

With the fight concluded, immediately, Astrolysis started eating the skin off of the fruit.

"So? What's it taste like?", asked her smaller companion.

"Tastes kinda funny. Like I'm eating someone's pelt."
Gee. If anyone else was around to witness this, they'd see a lot wrong with what they're doing. Good thing nobody can see this though, right?

Either way...
Much thanks for the gifts, O children from another world! You've made two clones very happy on this fine wintery day.
>>
No. 138903 ID: 681cb5
File 167270880193.png - (197.45KB , 1175x550 , Supper.png )
138903

Merry Capitalism Day and a Happy new Year, Questers!

(And all hail Sexy Stargazer, our lord and Savior!)
>>
No. 138911 ID: 9b127b
File 167276916637.png - (1.34MB , 739x981 , KoPxmas10.png )
138911

>>138868

Xiatsu:"though I am not sure the nature of the danger, I hope this woman is alright. the hair pin is very lovely I'll have to spend some time matching outfits to it's pretty colors!"
>>
No. 138917 ID: b066d7

Sorry for the crazy delay, life got in the way but the gift is coming!
>>
No. 138919 ID: 681cb5
File 167301661026.png - (161.66KB , 700x550 , ScorpionLove.png )
138919

>>138911
”Icaro: While I do agree the pin is lovely, it pales in comparison to the lovely lady it was gifted to.”

Xiatsu quickly spins around, as there is suddenly a man standing behind her in the shop, having appeared as if from nowhere. The Scorpion was sure she was alone, so she’s slightly confused how this… um… lizard… fish… thingy manage to get inside without her noticing.

”Xiatsu: Huh? How did you get here? Who are you?”

The man smiles broadly as he gives her a slight bow.

”Icaro: Let me introduce myself… I’m but a humble warrior of the Volin people, the slayer the colossal desert wyrm, the hero in the battle against the mechanical hordes and the one who led my people through the endless sea of dust and grime into the garden of the gods… you may call me Icaro, Icaro the Hunter. You have to forgive me, my pretty little flower, but when I saw those beautiful eyes of yours glitter like black pearls in the sunlight I shouldn’t help but be enthralled by your magnificence.”

Gently taking the Scorpion’s hand, Icaro guides it towards his snout and gives it a tender kiss, before revealing a large bouquet of roses that he had hidden behind him.

”Icaro: And thus I come bearing a gift, a bouquet of flowers nearly as beautiful as yourself but just as dangerous underneath said beauty, in hope that I may enjoy your fascinating presence just a little while longer this evening… maybe over dinner?”
>>
No. 138940 ID: 8483cf
File 167321545890.png - (12.75KB , 419x600 , SS22-S03.png )
138940

>>138791

A cookbook! It's lovely! There are so many new foods to try. He really knows what's good in life.

Thank you, Francis!
>>
No. 138941 ID: dc13c4

>>138917
It is ok, in my country Christmas was celebrated yesterday.
>>
No. 138946 ID: b90810
File 167331259877.png - (340.20KB , 580x661 , Peachy Gifting 14.png )
138946

Aww, don’t panic, sweetie, that’s snow. It’s what happens when rain gets cold and start freezing. Happens a lot in northern climates like this during cold season. Have you never heard of it before?

Oh, you must be that little servant girl we were told about! They said you’d come through here to participate in the gift-giving.

Thank you for coming over for the Secret Santa! It always makes me happy when someone so young wants to give a present to someone they don’t yet know. Come over, darling, I’ll give you a nice pair of socks to cover your feet and get acquianted with our village.

And feel free to take part in the holiday feast. For the duration of the festivities, all food is free!
>>
No. 138947 ID: b90810
File 167331264652.png - (1.06MB , 1380x1641 , Peachy Gifting 15.png )
138947

>>
No. 138948 ID: b90810
File 167331269806.png - (1.05MB , 1380x1641 , Peachy Gifting 16.png )
138948

*Ñam Ñam Ñam Ñam*
>>
No. 138949 ID: b90810
File 167331274401.png - (0.99MB , 1380x1641 , Peachy gifting 17.png )
138949

*PAF*
>>
No. 138950 ID: b90810
File 167331278387.png - (0.98MB , 1380x1641 , Peachy Gifting 18.png )
138950

*Ñam Ñam Ñam Ñam*
>>
No. 138951 ID: b90810
File 167331283398.png - (1.05MB , 1380x1641 , Peachy gifting 19.png )
138951

*PAF*


Louie has lost 3 Fear.
>>
No. 138952 ID: b90810
File 167331287584.png - (1.02MB , 1480x1341 , Peachy Gifting 20.png )
138952

*Ñom Ñom Ñom Ñom*

Oh, right,

THE GIFT!
>>
No. 138953 ID: b90810
File 167331291903.png - (728.89KB , 1380x1641 , Peachy Gifting 21.png )
138953

Hey, there you are! Sorry I took so long, miss. I was having so much fun I lost track of what I was doing.

I was told by, uh, a friend to come over with something special for, and I’m so glad I did! I never get to go outside the mountain, let alone hang out so many cool and weird people. Err, no offense, miss. You really do look cool.

I don’t have much, but scrounged up what I could that might mean something to you. I really hope you like it.
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No. 138954 ID: b90810
File 167331296207.png - (1.14MB , 1480x1341 , Peachy Gifting 22.png )
138954

I was told you had four arms and worked as kitchen staff and serving food, so my first gift are these four wonderful cooking mitts. I’ve used them once or twice and they are really comfy!

I am pretty sure we got enough around that we can give these ones over. I don’t think they’ll miss them much, at least.
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No. 138955 ID: b90810
File 167331308423.png - (651.62KB , 1480x1341 , Peachy Gifting 23.png )
138955

I also know that you don’t like you job and would like to find a better one, so I drew this map showing how to get all the way from the Eastern Gate (that’s the closest one to where I live) all the way to the mansions in the Monger Caves.

The Mongers are our merchants. Their job is travel the aaaall over the world, buying and selling stuff so we can live better. Since you come from a far away place, they’ll probably love to offer you a job as their trade contact! So, if you ever get to visit Silverlock mountain, all you have to do is follow the map and you’ll get a new job in no time!

I also marked many important points and all my favourite places along the way!
Uuh, I should probably explain what each of the symbols means.


Happy Holiday, Hatticus and Tippler!
Thank you so much for your wonderfully fun stories and for all the fish!
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No. 138961 ID: a7a180
File 167339600732.png - (122.32KB , 500x500 , how_handy.png )
138961

>>138955
You’re appreciative of the thought that went into this small furry alien’s gifts. Now you’ll have two sets of protection from grease burns from that bubbling vat they call a deep fryer. Really, hand protection is something your job should have provided, which makes Peachy’s job already sound better than yours. Maybe you’ll start really saving up for that offworld ticket, so one day you can visit this mystical mountain market and get a job guarding caravans with your swordsmanship skills. Ah, to be slinging sabers again instead of burgers..! You’ll just have to work overtime.
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No. 139011 ID: ccbbb0
File 167432252098.png - (454.02KB , 1080x1080 , Peachy Gifting 24.png )
139011

Suddenly a faint yet catching sound is heard by all nearby, as the sky begins to brighten.

As the the sound grows clearer, Peachy, Jynn, and all their newfound friends go outside to get a look at what is happening.

The snowfall's wind picks up in intensity, yet not in strength, as the snowflakes seem to dance as they fall wildly to earth and invite all in the village to look above.

The sound becomes clear and unequivocal as an angelic choir, the clouds part and the landscape is illuminated fully by the soothing light of the aurora.

And there, in the center of that marvellous opening in the firmament, they see it.

A secret santa, bearing something in arms, something beautiful, something wondrous, something..... breathtaking!

"The perfect gift is reaaaaal!" Peachy exclaims, tears escaping her eyes, along with those of everyone witnessing the spectacle.

She can't help but wonder how much higher she can get in order to get closer to her present, and of course, to her santa, the one who went above and beyond to give her this indescribable experience, this seemingly immposible gift, and most of all the one true miracle of being so loved.

Truly this was the greatest Chupian Psychopomp Day of all!
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No. 139016 ID: 11f77a
File 167441982184.png - (373.86KB , 830x692 , vik_1.png )
139016

Victor: Hey, Peachy!

Victor: I thought about gifting you a Chupian Toboggan that could brighten your days in the coal mines or farmlands or wherever you're assigned to life to work at. It’s all-terrain too--so you don’t need snow to really enjoy it.

Victor: But then I thought it wasn’t exciting enough. So with my expertise, I’ve added a few pressurized canisters to help give your sleigh a little ‘oomph’!
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No. 139017 ID: 11f77a
File 167441986942.png - (417.23KB , 830x692 , vik_2.png )
139017

Victor: All my tools were back at the bathhouse to finally get this thing workin, but it’s just a downhill ride to the festival!

Numax: We’ll be able to reach the middle of town in no time and show your gift in action!

Victor: Ready?!

Numax: Ready!
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No. 139018 ID: 11f77a
File 167441988333.png - (264.49KB , 830x692 , vik_3.png )
139018

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No. 139187 ID: 4286ca
File 167724508618.jpg - (307.51KB , 2456x1712 , unnamed.jpg )
139187

"Congratulations sidah you have been selected.. yaddah yaddah..multiversal..blah blah blah here we go, 'you have been assigned Princess bobbie and her companion, a demonically possessed apple'.."
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No. 139188 ID: 4286ca
File 167724511349.jpg - (283.50KB , 2448x1708 , unnamed (1).jpg )
139188

"FFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCCCKKK"
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No. 139202 ID: 629f2e
File 167747978307.gif - (491.06KB , 1000x1000 , SS22-13.gif )
139202

The box was gone. Some weird toy left in its place.

Louie: “...”
Louie: “Alright, so… Logically the box didn’t just disappear. That wouldn’t just happen. The only people who should have known about it were Saihu and Temmie.”
Louie: “I guess mom could have seen it if she came in too, but she didn’t know what it was about.”
Louie: “So either Saihu took the gift, and left one for me in return... Or Temmie broke into our house to keep up the illusion of her game.”
Louie: “...”
Louie: “Maybe if I just don’t ask Saihu, I can pretend it was him and skip having an awkward conversation about boundaries with Temmie later?”

You sigh. A nagging sense of responsibility makes it clear that avoidance just isn’t going to cut it.

Although its presence becomes a source of stress, Louie is ultimately thankful for the universal compass. Big thanks to Dowser and Bry!
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No. 139284 ID: 9b127b
File 167899562730.png - (768.77KB , 584x773 , KoPxmas11.png )
139284

>>138919
Xiatsu: 'Oh! how charming! let me close up shop and perhaps we can pick a restaurant for review and discuss investment portfolios and financial assets?'
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No. 139296 ID: f69af6
File 167902137523.png - (760.93KB , 1080x936 , Peachy Gifting 25.png )
139296

"Good thing we were doing our annual intercosmical parade when you boys decided to play Icarus." says an angel standing next to Victor.

"Yes, thanks again for the save." He replies. "I really thought I'd meassured the fuel right this time."

"I guess those thrusters just can't be trusted." Numax looks towards his best bud, who rolls his eyes.

"You may rise, child. No need to grovel." The leading cherub says, all four mouths speaking in unison, yet more curously than offputtingly. It takes Peachy a moment to get over her hard-coded habit of kneeling before figures of authority.

"Eeeeeeeh! Actual heralds from Heaven!" She squeals giddily, which often happens when someone sees actual heralds from Heaven, "I-if I may ask, what's the afterlife like"

"Well, I must say, it's like being on cloud 9."

Some of the people around chuckle.

"...I don't get it."

"It means it's really nice." Victor interrupts, "Say, Peachy, sorry about the rough introduction but what do you think about our gift?"

"It looks neat!" Peachy smiles, then hesitates for a moment. "Um, I guess if I use it for carrying stuff at work they will let us keep it. Also, I don't have much coal for myself, so I...uh.. can't use the flying canisters."

"Oh, don't worry, we can change them later.... Say, you wanna give it a test ride now?"

"Well..."

"I'll switch to nitrogliceryne-free fuel. No big booms this time."

"Oh, alright, then. Sure!"
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No. 139297 ID: f69af6
File 167902174263.png - (699.29KB , 1080x1080 , Peachy Gifting 26.png )
139297

Numax: "Hey, look, that's my pet from middle school! How's it going, Trig?"

Peachy: "Yaaaaay- What's a middle school?"

Thank you, Sarcopholacooda, for your wonderful gift!
Merry psychopomp day to all, and to them all hold no spite!
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No. 139326 ID: 681cb5
File 167927017084.png - (87.41KB , 550x400 , SandClawFinal.png )
139326

Maphet: “Oh, there you are Icaro!” Maphet hoist the large bag of seeds under her arm as she sees her friend finally arriving, “We were almost going to leave without you, you know. And I can see you had a pleasant day as well, going by that smile of yours.”
Icaro: “Oh, it’s been better than pleasant!” Icaro cheerfully answers, his grin widening even more, “I’ve even made a new trade partner!”
Pesi: “Of course you have…”Pesi mutters while rolling her eyes, “And they trade in what, exactly? This is going to be just like that time you bought those nonexistent paintings of hairless apes, those that was supposedly hanging on a chain somewhere?”
Maphet: “Now now, Pesi, I’m sure he learned something from that.” The green lizard gives him a warm smile, “Surely, this trade contact is a bit more trustworthy than that, Icaro?”
Icaro: “Why, of course Maphet, they did after all have a shop right here at the Sand Claw festival!” he raises his hand and point towards himself before continuing, “And what’s even more important, I got a dinner date with her!”
Sekhmet: “A date? Why even bother? Just make it a quickie and put a bun in that oven!”
Icaro: “Because some of us actually want something more than that, Sekhmet.” the blue Volin states as he gives his friend the stink eye, “Like a mate or two for life.”
Pesi: “Ha! Like anyone would be your mate for a full week, let alone their full life.”
Maphet: “Pesi!”
Pesi: “What? I’m just speaking the truth!”
Maphet: “So… this girl… she was that scorpion lady, correct?”
Icaro: “Oh, indeed she is. Lady Xiatsu is her name…” Icaro stops and looks wistfully into the sky, “And she’s one of the most charming and regal women I’ve ever met…” he just stand there staring for a moment, as he’s seemingly mesmerized by his own daydreaming, “Why, I would say she even rivals the very gods with her beauty…”
Pesi: “She just wants our treasures, Icaro.”
Icaro: “Bah, you’re just jealous, Pesi.” The blue lizard quickly answers, all the while doing a rather rude gesture towards his black and white companion, “Though… she did ask a bunch about investment portfolios and financial assets, whatever that means? She wanted to see them next time our worlds connect, so it’s some kind of trade talk, right?”
Maphet: “I do believe so…” the green Volin rubs her chin a bit, thinking, “I guess she wants to see what our tribe is willing to trade? I’ll make sure you’ll have a fine selection to show her next time you meet.”
Sekhmet: “Just give her a pile of gold and jewels! Bitches love gold and jewels!”
Pesi: Pesi lets out a sigh “I’ll dig up my finest bone carving, Icaro… for the tribe.”

Maphet: “Goodbye everyone, it is time for us to return to our own world.” Maphet loudly declare for everyone to hear, “Thank you, Jynn Kara, for this amazing ‘Hoth Koko’, as well as Pesi’s new clothes.”
Sekhmet: “Happy Sand Claw festival, weaklings!” Sekhmet interjects while waving goodbye through the portal, “May you slay that Claw beast this year!”

And thus, the Volin tribe’s adventure with Sand Claws is over… for this year.
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No. 139328 ID: a7a180
File 167928136393.png - (105.14KB , 500x500 , tail_end_of_winter.png )
139328

>>139326
Normally, you'd be sad to watch a new friend leave, but this time it isn't so bad maybe.
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No. 140117 ID: 11f77a
File 169030547056.png - (147.74KB , 550x500 , july_01.png )
140117

Hello.

My wife has informed me that not every participant received their gift--yet the holiday seems to extend into half the year. We’re still cleaning up the village and taking down decorations--giving us little time to hand these off ourselves.

This strange creature has offered their help to deliver the remaining packages so that no one is left without a gift.
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No. 140118 ID: 11f77a
File 169030550287.png - (352.58KB , 800x600 , july_02.png )
140118

Thus begins the flight of the couriers Pascoe and Ecoa to pair giftees with an appropriate package that suits their needs and hobbies.
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No. 140119 ID: 11f77a
File 169030557718.png - (296.53KB , 550x500 , july_03.png )
140119

For Bobbie and Abdle my wife bought a Mr. Yakbeet Face kit so your applefriend can have someone their size to chat with and express themselves. It helps to sort problems out when you speak aloud to an object or animal. Perhaps practice a speech with a produce-audience.

We only have chupian parts but feel free to find other accessories. She added a complimentary yakbeet to start with.
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No. 140120 ID: 11f77a
File 169030563949.png - (263.26KB , 550x500 , july_04.png )
140120

As for Clark I was able to find an old dinjar stick that I don’t really use anymore: not since the bathhouse has taken my time and my children have no interest in it. It should be simple to play, for it only has two strings. The jar acts as a resonance chamber so you could play without the use of amplifiers if you bring a small group together around a campfire.

I believe the instrument is making a comeback with this...naked couple of sorts. I don’t really pay attention where music is heading nowadays.
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No. 140121 ID: 11f77a
File 169030572020.png - (279.54KB , 550x500 , july_05.png )
140121

Finally, for the orange one—umm—yes, Dotti. One of the locals offered this miniature ice sculpture kit complete with a mini-chainsaw and a few ice-chipping tools. Just stack a few cubes on a pillar and start crafting some infinitesimals to impress your peers. I’m not sure how sophisticated your paws are to hold these things.

And that should just about cover it. My wife is planning the next spot already--I suppose we’ll all see each other again in Secret Santa 2023.
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No. 140167 ID: 48c015
File 169092404409.png - (266.13KB , 800x600 , Peachy Farewell.png )
140167

And so, after many hours of food, games, music and laughs that lasted all through the night until sunrise, the portal at the edge of town shone brigthly, signalling the end of the festivities, and Peachy, Jynn, and all their newfound friends returned to their respective worlds...
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No. 140168 ID: 48c015
File 169092410927.png - (462.90KB , 900x600 , Peachy Ever After.png )
140168

...where they lived happily ever after.
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No. 140169 ID: 48c015
File 169092442126.png - (312.64KB , 600x600 , Peachy Farewell 2.png )
140169

Uuuugh, I really shouldn't have eaten that weird four legged bird thingy!

(It really was all the chocolate and candy. Eat responsibly kids.)
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No. 140170 ID: 48c015
File 169092451341.png - (316.94KB , 600x600 , Peachy Farewell 3.png )
140170

Aaagh!
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No. 140171 ID: 48c015
File 169092456142.png - (327.99KB , 600x600 , Peachy Farewell 4.png )
140171

Guuuuh
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No. 140172 ID: 48c015
File 169092464694.png - (323.85KB , 600x600 , Peachy Farewell 5.png )
140172

Ñeeeh.
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No. 140173 ID: 48c015
File 169092469197.png - (322.73KB , 600x600 , Peachy Farewell 6.png )
140173

Ieeeeh!
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No. 140174 ID: 48c015
File 169092474723.png - (335.73KB , 600x600 , Peachy Farewell 7.png )
140174

Uuy!
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No. 140175 ID: 48c015
File 169092484490.png - (342.66KB , 600x600 , Peachy Farewell 8.png )
140175

Huh? Hey, I feel better now!
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