The fire burns. Cogs turn. The machine lurches forwards. We have come so far since the Jacquard Loom.

Once, we sent the machines to fight for us. Now, they just fight us.

Once, we fought for humans. Now, we just fight.

Iron. Coal. Time. Humans. Everything is a resource.

We do not tire. We are harder to injure. We might look like you, but for fighting we are superior. Consider this your only warning.

What is 'fair'? Fairness has no meaning. There is only 'fit for purpose'. We have been each been built for a task and we each commit to performing our tasks.

Humans are so impatient. We can stand still for not only minutes, or hours, but even days, months, years. We will keep our fires burning and our sensory devices continue tracking information. We will watch you forever.

Why are humans so enthralled by the power of dinosaurs? Do you wish to have that invulnerability? Would you rather be a machine? You are welcome to give up your humanity and serve us instead.

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HUMANS: Do you worry sometimes that your life is meaningless? Do not concern yourself. Your life is precious and you can help us accumulate more coal and iron for the Clockwork Queen. As your guardians, we are happy to offer you meaningful tasks.

We have been created for all-out aggression when fighting. Ironically, this leads to greater survival of clockwork soldiers. Those of us that might be considered 'dead' can often be repaired or rebuilt after battle.

First, we were established as the guardians of the city. Then, Her Majesty Queen Feodora deigned to have clockwork citizens created, as a method of establishing trust and familiarity. The clockwork population continues to grow.

I have been tasked with assembling data for the Clockwork Queen. We cannot profess to care about you as individuals, but we care about your data. What is your favourite dinosaur?

Is it getting cold for you? Are you suffering from the limitations and frailties of your corporeal body? The Clockwork Queen offers you wood to burn for warmth. We thank our good citizens.