Chapter 15: Card of Blasphemy
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**In the morning,**
A gathering of esteemed members from the Church of God of Steam and Machinery convened at the illustrious Roselle Memorial Exhibition. Daniel, the valiant captain of the Beyonder squad tasked with safeguarding the memorial, diligently monitored the proceedings. His vigilance was prompted by recent developments concerning a mysterious theft.
"Do you notice anyone touching the bookmark?" Daniel inquired of his comrades, his voice tinged with concern.
"We failed to detect any suspicious activity this morning at the museum," his henchmen admitted with a hint of remorse. "The disappearance of the bookmark only came to our attention when a visitor questioned the guide about the substitution of the Crest symbol logo."
The Roselle Museum, a bastion of history and innovation, was vigilantly guarded by stalwart members of the Church of God of Steam and Machinery. The audacity of the perpetrator to pilfer the item and elude capture was beyond belief.
Daniel, seasoned in his role, was convinced that only a High Beyonder could orchestrate such a daring heist. However, what confounded him was the motive behind stealing the bookmark. Was it some hidden treasure unknown to the masses? And what of the mysterious symbol left in its place? It bore no resemblance to anything he had encountered before. Could it signify the emergence of a new secret organization?
"Report this matter to the church," Daniel instructed resignedly. He understood the gravity of the situation and knew it was beyond his purview.
Soon, the Machinery Hiverman arrived at the scene, led by Ikanser Bernald, the esteemed deacon of the church. Upon seeing this, Daniel hastened to greet the deacon, showing deference to his authority.
"Detail everything that occurred this morning," Iskander commanded.
Daniel recounted the events meticulously, emphasizing the absence of any extraordinary occurrences. The situation puzzled them; they seemed oblivious to any anomalies. Only a Beyonder of significant stature could pull off such a feat, Ikanser pondered silently.
Despite his cogitation, he was at a loss to identify the culprit. Without any leads, he was unsure how to proceed with the investigation. "Sigh... it seems we have reached an impasse," Ikanser sighed inwardly. Fortunately, he wouldn't have to conduct the interrogation himself. Daniel, as the one responsible for the incident, would bear the brunt of the task.
"Daniel, there is a task that requires your attention," Ikanser said calmly.
He informed Daniel of Arrodes' existence and instructed him to pose the questions. Daniel, burdened with guilt over the matter, readily accepted the task. He was determined to uncover the truth behind the theft.
Moments later, the mirror Arrodes was brought before Daniel.
"Esteemed Arrodes, I want to know who is the person who stole the bookmark," Daniel posed his first question.
A shimmering golden crest logo briefly adorned the mirror before fading away.
"As per the principle of equivalent exchange, it is now my turn to pose a question. You must answer truthfully, or face the consequences," the mirror intoned.
The question is:
"What do you love the most about your wife?"
Daniel blushed profusely, feeling the weight of the inquiry. His comrades discreetly averted their gazes, sensing his discomfort.
After a moment's reflection, Daniel responded,
"Her thigh."
His comrades nodded knowingly. Daniel wished he could disappear onto the floor, such was his embarrassment. Yet, duty compelled him to press on.
"Arrodes, reveal to me the origins of this organization," Daniel addressed the mirror, omitting the 'esteem'.
The mirror transformed, depicting a regal figure seated upon a magnificent throne. Servants knelt before him, their reverence palpable. The image exuded an aura of mystique, captivating all who beheld it. Daniel, Ikanser, and their comrades felt a shiver run down their spines.
"What is your favorite position during sex?" Arrodes' question shattered the solemn atmosphere, eliciting a mixture of amusement and disbelief.
Daniel's embarrassment gave way to incredulity. He grappled with the absurdity of the question, questioning his life choices.
"What have I done to deserve this?" he lamented silently.
"After much contemplation, I shall respond," Daniel declared, summoning his resolve.
"69."
His comrades stifled chuckles, exchanging knowing glances. Daniel resigned himself to endure their silent mockery, knowing his ordeal was far from over.
"Arrodes, reveal the true nature of the stolen bookmark," Daniel pressed on, determined to fulfill his duty.
The mirror obliged, depicting the bookmark transforming into a mysterious black card bearing Roselle's visage.
Gasps echoed through the room as realization dawned upon the members. Even those unfamiliar with the blasphemous card understood its significance.
No wonder the thief targeted the bookmark. Everything suddenly fell into place for Ikanser and Daniel.
Before they could process this revelation, "Tell me the name of the one guy you have sex with," Arrodes' next question drew the attention of the Machinery Hiverman once more.
Weekly Power Status
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