Chapter 17 - The Accident

Summary

Desert Skies: Chapter 17 - The Accident Release Date: August 27, 2024 | Host: Jared Carter

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Introduction

In Chapter 17 of Desert Skies, titled "The Accident," listeners are thrust into a tense and emotionally charged episode set at the Desert Skies Astral Plane Fuel and Service Station. Host Jared Carter skillfully portrays a narrative that delves deep into the psyches of its characters, exploring themes of loss, responsibility, and redemption. This episode masterfully balances interpersonal conflict with supernatural undertones, creating a gripping storyline that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish.

Main Events

The episode opens with a brief advertisement segment, quickly transitioning to the core narrative. The central plot revolves around an unsettling incident—the arrival of a distressed traveler named Mavis whose car has seemingly collided with a metaphysical obstruction, causing chaos at the service station.

The Confrontation: Mavis arrives visibly agitated, blaming the station for the accident. Tendi, one of the station attendants, attempts to calm her, emphasizing their role in assisting travelers to the next life. However, the interaction quickly escalates as Mavis accuses the staff of incompetence and mistreatment.

Mavis (14:07): "I don't need you in my business. You just want to make me feel bad, you sick, sadistic little asshole."

Cash, another key character, intervenes to defend Tendi, revealing underlying tensions and personal struggles within the team.

Cash (14:41): "You don't have any embarrassing childhood memories? You don't have any embarrassing memories. Not a single one."

The Accident Unfolds: As the argument intensifies, a literal accident occurs—a car crash erupts in the background, heightening the drama and symbolizing the internal conflicts of the characters. Mavis's aggressive demeanor contrasts sharply with the typically serene atmosphere of the astral service station, highlighting the unpredictable nature of travelers passing through.

Tendi (07:02): "What was that? Was that a car?"

Character Dynamics

The interactions between Tendi, Cash, Mac, and Mavis are central to this episode, revealing complex relationships and hidden vulnerabilities.

Tendi and Cash: Tendi is portrayed as compassionate but emotionally fragile, grappling with the fear of failing the travelers she serves. Cash, on the other hand, embodies a more pragmatic and protective stance, often clashing with Tendi's idealism.

Tendi (05:05): "I'm not the one who let do need me."

Cash (05:08): "Remember what you said that day after school? We were just kids. I was worried about you."

Mavis's Aggression: Mavis serves as a catalyst for conflict, challenging the staff's patience and professionalism. Her backstory, hinted through dialogue, suggests a troubled past that fuels her antagonistic behavior.

Mavis (19:15): "I don't make mistakes. I never make mistakes. Why is everybody always accusing me? I'm a good person."

Mac's Role: Mac appears as a supportive yet somewhat detached character, trying to mediate conflicts without fully understanding the emotional depths of his colleagues.

Mac (25:39): "We can intervene."

Emotional Themes

This episode delves deep into the emotional struggles of its characters, particularly focusing on themes of abandonment, self-worth, and the burden of responsibility.

Tendi's Anxiety: Tendi's fear of letting others down is palpable throughout the episode. Her internal monologue reveals a character weighed down by the expectation to provide peace and comfort to others while battling her own insecurities.

Tendi (28:52): "But I'm gonna fail them. That they're gonna leave here and they're gonna feel bad and it'll be my fault."

Cash's Despair: Cash’s contemplation of jumping down a well metaphorically represents his battle with depression and desire to escape his pain. His dialogue with Mac highlights his profound sense of hopelessness.

Cash (24:34): "I'm gonna go outside and jump down one of those wells because I think it's the right thing to do."

Mavis's Resentment: Mavis's rant exposes her deep-seated resentment and feelings of betrayal, painting a picture of a soul unable to move on due to unresolved anger and guilt.

Mavis (19:41): "I'm a good person. But everyone treats me like I'm some kind of villain."

Climactic Resolution

The episode reaches its climax as Cash confronts Mavis with unwavering intensity, ultimately forcing her to acknowledge her own pain and the futility of her anger.

Cash (27:19): "Say you're sorry or you're gonna get the hose."

After a heated exchange, Mavis reluctantly apologizes, leading to a temporary cessation of hostilities. However, the emotional fallout is evident as Tendi grapples with her own fears of inadequacy, and Cash remains emotionally scarred by the encounter.

Cash (28:17): "What are you so afraid is going to happen?"

Tendi (29:05): "Tendi, you can't save everybody."

Conclusion

Chapter 17 - "The Accident" effectively intertwines supernatural elements with profound emotional narratives, offering listeners a compelling exploration of the characters' inner turmoil and the challenges they face in their ethereal roles. The episode concludes on a somber note, with unresolved tensions hinting at future confrontations and the ongoing struggle to find peace within the astral realm.

Tendi (30:37): "Mavis, this is not how we normally tell people. Yes, you've arrived on the astral plane, which means your time on the physical plane has ended. But..."

Listeners are left reflecting on the delicate balance between helping others and maintaining one's own emotional well-being, a recurring theme that enriches the Desert Skies series.

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Notable Quotes:

• Cash (05:05): "I'm not the one who let do need me."
• Mavis (19:15): "I don't make mistakes. I never make mistakes. Why is everybody always accusing me? I'm a good person."
• Tendi (28:52): "But I'm gonna fail them. That they're gonna leave here and they're gonna feel bad and it'll be my fault."
• Cash (24:34): "I'm gonna go outside and jump down one of those wells because I think it's the right thing to do."
• Cash (27:19): "Say you're sorry or you're gonna get the hose."

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Desert Skies continues to captivate its audience with rich storytelling and deep character development. Chapter 17 - "The Accident" is a testament to Jared Carter’s prowess in weaving intricate narratives that resonate emotionally while maintaining an engaging supernatural backdrop.

Transcript

[Jared Carter]

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[Jack]

What's the best time of day to get a deal? All day with Jack in the Box's all day. Big deal. Meet. You get to choose from four entrees like the supreme croissant and five tasty sides, plus a drink starting at $5. So hurry in or take your time. You've got all day at Jack. Every bite's a big deal.

[Damian]

Greetings, travelers. This is Jared. Before we begin today's episode, I want to take a quick moment to thank everyone who joined Club 86 since the last episode. I'd like to welcome the following new members to the station and give them a completely pretend version of their favorite candy bar. Maria. Maria, have a Milky Way on the house nightshade for you. The Kinder Bueno or the Kinder Bueno or the Kinder Bueno? There's some debate. Damian the Polar Bear. We held onto the last Almond Joy just for you, which is great because mounds are garbage. Yuna, please take this supremely healthy 80% cocoa dark chocolate bar. Jay, here's that classic candy you're a fan of. The Zero bar Twilio with another classic. Have a Zach nut. Then a couple folks who never got back to me about their favorite candy bar. That's okay. To Alan and AFI and Brian and Becky, I give you my favorite candy bar, the Caramela, and I'm going to keep one for myself. Join Club 86 and you'll get access to all kinds of great perks, from exclusive episodes, including the game Night miniseries, to special discord privileges, exclusive merch, early episodes as they're available, and so much more. It's also a great way to support the show. To join, visit patreon.com desertskies or click the link in the show notes below. Thank you to all who have joined. And now, chapter 17, the accident. For the best listening experience, headphones are recommended.

[Cash]

Hey, you're back.

[Tendi]

Cash. What are you talking about? I didn't leave. You left.

[Cash]

You've been gone way longer than I expected. Do you want to see what I'm working on? It's a painting. They said it would help.

[Tendi]

A painting?

[Cash]

Yeah. I hope it's not upsetting.

[Tendi]

Why would it be upsetting?

[Cash]

Because it'll remind you of her of who?

[Tendi]

Cash. Can I see it?

[Cash]

Sure. Here it is.

[Tendi]

I don't get it.

[Cash]

What's there to get? You don't like it? I shouldn't have shown you.

[Tendi]

No, I mean, I don't see it. It's just a blank canvas.

[Cash]

Wow. I know you don't like to think about it, but I didn't think it was that bad.

[Tendi]

Think about what?

[Cash]

Are you gonna leave again?

[Tendi]

Yeah, I think so.

[Cash]

When are you coming home?

[Tendi]

In the winter. For at least a couple weeks. Wait. Home?

[Cash]

You're so sad.

[Tendi]

Why wouldn't I be?

[Cash]

And angry because she's gone. And because you don't trust him. You think it's his fault.

[Tendi]

What? No, Cash. I'm sad because you're gone. You're the one who left.

[Cash]

No, I'm not. You are. Cash, I think I want to be alone now.

[Tendi]

Cash, no. You don't have to be alone.

[Cash]

It's not his fault. I didn't think you were going to be here again.

[Tendi]

Cash, I didn't go anywhere. I've always been. What is this? What are we doing here?

[Cash]

Don't start that again. Just because she's not here physically doesn't mean we shouldn't say goodbye. She's gone.

[Tendi]

You don't know that.

[Cash]

You're the one who doesn't know. It's been months. You're the one avoiding the truth.

[Tendi]

What truth?

[Cash]

Why would you let me be there for you? You said you needed me. You do need me.

[Tendi]

I'm not the one who let do need me.

[Cash]

Remember what you said that day after school?

[Tendi]

Don't remind me.

[Cash]

We were just kids. I was worried about you. You said my purpose was to join you on your mission.

[Tendi]

To assist you in bringing peace wherever there is war, joy where there is.

[Cash]

Sadness, comfort where there is pain. You said that.

[Tendi]

It was just a line from a book I read.

[Cash]

Not to me, it wasn't.

[Tendi]

What's he doing here?

[Cash]

Who do you think paid for this? You should talk to him.

[Tendi]

After what he did to us?

[Cash]

He didn't do anything. It was her decision.

[Tendi]

I shouldn't have come here. I should go.

[Cash]

Wait. I have a question for you.

[Tendi]

What's the question?

[Cash]

Are you really here? Or is this just a dream?

[Tendi]

Of course I'm here. Why of everything you could dream. Would you dream of me being here?

[Cash]

I never said I was the one dreaming.

[Tendi]

You think you can just make it okay? You think you can just.

[Damian]

Who do you think you are?

[Tendi]

What makes you think we would want this? What makes you think I would want this? Do you have any idea? We were happy. We didn't need you. I don't care what you say. You are who you are. You're never gonna. We were better off without you. And I don't care what she said. You want to know what our answer is? No. Hell no.

[Cash]

Stop fighting. Please. Get back in the car.

[Tendi]

Cash.

[Damian]

Where are we?

[Mac]

Get back in the holy hell.

[Cash]

Was that a car crash?

[Mac]

Tendi. Tendi, where are you?

[Mavis]

I'm.

[Mac]

I'm right here, Matt.

[Tendi]

What was that? Was that a car?

[Mac]

It sounds like it was out back, like it ran into something. I don't know.

[Cash]

I'm gonna go outside and see.

[Tendi]

Oh, my God. Oh, my God.

[Mac]

Cash, can you end the broadcast for me? Just say all that stuff I told you to and then go back to the radio. Music. Come on, bud. You all right? You don't look so good. Why? You been sleeping anyways? You never sleep.

[Tendi]

I don't know, Mac, but I'm alright.

[Damian]

I just had a weird dream.

[Tendi]

Come on, let's see what happened.

[Mac]

Oh, no. My shack. I had so many memories there.

[Tendi]

Mac, grab the hose and put these flames out. Nani, are they okay?

[Cash]

She's fine. She's just me.

[Tendi]

Ma'am, what happened?

[Mavis]

What do you mean? You have two eyes, don't ya? Look at the car. It's on fire, genius.

[Tendi]

I can see that, but what happened?

[Mavis]

Some idiot put a shack where there should be a road. Was that you?

[Mac]

No, it wasn't. And no, they didn't. The road's on the other side of the station.

[Mavis]

Wrong. Why is everything always my fault? Why does everyone always blame little old Mavis for everything?

[Tendi]

Mavis, nobody is blaming you for anything. We're just glad you're alright.

[Mavis]

Well, that makes one of us.

[Mac]

Ma'am, all due respect. What crawled up your butt? Look, you destroyed my shack. That's where I spent half of what I think was eternity reading and curating embarrassing childhood memories while drinking more than the recommended daily dose of shack juice. A juice that I invented in that shack.

[Mavis]

Thank you so much for telling me your life story, little man. It makes me wish I'd crashed a little harder and died.

[Mac]

Well, you're in luck.

[Tendi]

Mack, Knock it off. Ma'am, come inside and we'll explain everything.

[Mavis]

Let me use your phone. You owe me that much. I want to call my daughter so she can get her ass out here and pick me up. Maybe she'll answer if it's. That's not my number.

[Tendi]

I'm sorry, ma'am, we don't.

[Mavis]

You don't want. Let Old ladies use your phone. Figures. I'm so polite to everybody, nobody's nice back to me. What did I do to deserve this kind of treatment?

[Cash]

Oh, my God. What a pity party. He said get inside, so get inside.

[Mavis]

What are you gonna do if I don't?

[Cash]

I'm gonna water you like a plant with that hose, Mac. Hand it to me.

[Mavis]

Hm. Okay, whatever. I'll go inside. So much disrespect.

[Tendi]

Mac, show her into the store, please. I need to talk to Nani.

[Mac]

Alright, follow me.

[Tendi]

Hey, Nani. Listen, I appreciate your help, but.

[Cash]

What is it?

[Tendi]

Well, the way you were talking to that woman. She's a traveler. And? Well, we should not be threatening them. And I know that can be hard when they're not being amicable, but we have to give the benefit of a doubt. Okay, look, it's not just you. In the past, Mac has tried taping traveler's hands to the steering wheel when they didn't want to make the trip to the next life. He once knocked a guy out and then drew a mustache on him. Mack has a surprisingly strong left hook, and he actually draws a pretty great mustache. But he's learned that it's not okay to do things like that. Travelers deserve our respect.

[Cash]

Oh, I see. So travelers get to treat you like crap because.

[Tendi]

Well, because we're supposed to help them. And that's our job. Some people are a little more bristly than others, but being kind to them, even when they're being abusive. What? No, come on. Abusive? That's a little much. When they're being difficult.

[Cash]

That woman was talking to you like you're a child. She was calling you names.

[Tendi]

Well, compared to her, I kind of am a child.

[Cash]

Yeah, well, a rude spear mover brought it to my attention that I'm likely in my mid-40s, despite my youthful appearance and sense of fashion. So you should listen to me when I say, as your elder, don't let people treat you like you're less than human. You can still be kind without letting them walk all over you.

[Tendi]

Well, first, Elder, I may be physically younger than you, but I'm, like, really, really old. In astral years, I think so.

[Mavis]

Exactly.

[Cash]

So listen up, oh, great Ancient One, that woman's a child compared to you. So stop taking her crap, get her what she needs and send her on her way. She can take the car I left here.

[Tendi]

Nani, we can help her. She's obviously hurting. Nobody's mean just because.

[Cash]

Well, I disagree. Maybe it's true for some, maybe even for most, but some people are just mean. And I don't like seeing you being treated like that.

[Tendi]

I appreciate your concern, but we have to help her. She's all alone. It's what we do.

[Cash]

Says who?

[Tendi]

Says me, Nonnie. Says me.

[Cash]

Oh, right.

[Mavis]

Great.

[Cash]

Ancient one, please let us attend to the fair helpless maiden known as Mavis.

[Tendi]

You don't have to be sarcastic.

[Cash]

Oh, I don't have to be sarcastic?

[Tendi]

Yeah, that's what I said. Seriously?

[Cash]

I love when you say seriously to me. It's like I'm part of the team.

[Tendi]

Yeah, like you're a part of the team.

[Cash]

Ooh, Nice burn.

[Tendi]

Really?

[Cash]

Yeah. Now take that sassy ass inside and banish that wench from this sacred place. Seriously? Seriously. Huh? I made you say it.

[Tendi]

Oh, my God.

[Cash]

What?

[Tendi]

How did I not notice?

[Cash]

Not notice what?

[Tendi]

You're Mac. You are another Mac.

[Cash]

I'm Mega Mac. But get me some Shack juice. But I got chili in my beard.

[Tendi]

Never do that again.

[Cash]

Fair enough.

[Mac]

Look, I'm sorry we don't carry your brand. I don't have a manager you can talk to. And I don't care if you tell everyone not to come here. That would be amazing, because that would mean they don't die. Now, do you want a pack of larks or no? I seriously don't care.

[Mavis]

That much is obvious, ma'am.

[Tendi]

What's the problem?

[Mavis]

You don't carry my brand.

[Tendi]

I'm sorry, we don't have any say over what products are available at the station.

[Cash]

Figures.

[Mavis]

Nobody trusts a little boy to make the grown up decisions.

[Cash]

The hell did you just say?

[Mavis]

Honey, if you don't have my brand, I don't need you. You worthless pieces of crap are wasting my time.

[Tendi]

I've.

[Mavis]

I wish you a good day, but I honestly don't give a shit. Now, how long will it take for you to fix my car?

[Mac]

Fix your car?

[Damian]

What is it with you guys?

[Mavis]

Get some control over your people, why don't you?

[Cash]

We're not his people. We're just people. Listen, Mavis, I'm more than happy to kick you to the curb and bid a fondless farewell, but this little boy, as you so rudely called him, has decided that you are to be treated kindly, despite your offenses. You should be grateful.

[Mavis]

Whatever. That's it.

[Cash]

Oh, give me the strength, Mavis. May I give you a hug? I think it could help.

[Mavis]

Threaten to touch me again and I'll.

[Cash]

You did not just hit me.

[Tendi]

Nani.

[Cash]

Calm down, Mavis. You are dead. You are so dead. Like in real life, but also to me. So get out. Start Walking down that road. Work out your shit on the astral plane.

[Mavis]

I'm dead.

[Tendi]

Mavis, this is not how we normally tell people. Yes, you've arrived on the astral plane, which means your time on the physical plane has ended. But. What? We are gonna help you too, Nani. I told you that. Are you crying?

[Cash]

Yeah, Tendi, I'm crying. She hit me. Maybe you didn't notice. You didn't even say anything.

[Tendi]

I didn't think you would want me to stand up for you or I would've.

[Cash]

I don't need you to stand up for me. But you're my friend, you know, maybe don't stand up for the person who just assumes insulted me.

[Tendi]

I'm sorry, Nani. She's probably just confused.

[Cash]

And you know what? Why don't you just go, okay.

[Tendi]

I'm sorry, Nani. Truly.

[Cash]

I accept your apology. Tendi, listen. In the short time I've been around, I find that I'm pretty good at knowing a person after just a few seconds.

[Tendi]

How could you possibly.

[Cash]

And I know an abuser when I see one. And she is one. And I know when someone's carrying a savior complex. And you are. You can't save everyone, Tendi. And you don't have to try.

[Tendi]

Yes, I do. Mack, get Nani some ice. I'm gonna fix this. Oh, such a clutch off season pickup, Dave.

[Michael Freiberg]

I was worried we'd bring back the same team.

[Tendi]

I meant those blackout motorized shades.

[Michael Freiberg]

Lions.com made it craz crazy affordable to replace our old blinds.

[Tendi]

Hard to install.

[Michael Freiberg]

No, it's easy. I installed these and then got some from my mom. She talked to a design consultant for free and scheduled a professional measure and.

[Tendi]

Install hall of fame, son.

[Michael Freiberg]

They're the number one online retailer of custom window coverings in the world.

[Cash]

Blinds.com is the goat shop blinds.com right now.

[Christopher]

And get up to 40% off select styles plus a free professional measure.

[Jared Carter]

Rules and restrictions may apply.

[Christopher]

Um, I think I just won my taxes. Yeah, I just switched to H and R Block in about one minute. All I had to do was drag and drop last year's return into H and R block and bam. My information is automatically there so I don't have to go digging around for all my old papers to switch. Nope. Sounds like we just leveled up our tax game.

[Tendi]

Switching to H and R block is easy. Just drag and drop your last return.

[Damian]

It's better with block.

[Tendi]

Mavis, listen, I'm sorry that you found out the way you did, but you can't just go around slapping people.

[Mavis]

She Tried to assault me.

[Tendi]

She did no such thing. She asked if she could hug you. You could have just said no.

[Mavis]

Everyone is always so mean to me. All I do is love and love and pour myself out and people still treat me like garbage. And then when I try to defend myself, I'm the bad guy.

[Tendi]

Nobody is saying you're the bad guy.

[Mavis]

No, I'm not the bad guy. You're the bad guy. Tell me I'm dead. So rudely. This is really the afterlife? This crap hole?

[Tendi]

Well, first, it's not a crap hole. And second, yes, technically, it's the afterlife, as in it's after life. But this is an in between place. It's a wonderfully weird, immensely beautiful and challenging dead place. But traveling this road, Mavis, you'll change. You'll be refined. You'll be unburdened of the weight you carry from past mistakes. Things you've done, things done against you. And then you'll enter the next life.

[Mavis]

Unburdened by past mistakes.

[Tendi]

That's right. Doesn't that sound nice?

[Mavis]

I don't need to be unburdened of my past mistakes. I don't have any.

[Tendi]

Everybody makes mistakes.

[Mavis]

I don't make mistakes. I never make mistakes. Why is everybody always accusing me? I'm a good person.

[Tendi]

I'm not saying you're a bad person.

[Mavis]

My daughter was always accusing me. She stopped talking to me. Did you know that? Stop talking to her. Own mother won't take my calls. Did you know that? You do know that. You probably know everything about me.

[Tendi]

I didn't know that.

[Mavis]

Really? Wow. Some angel you are.

[Tendi]

I'm not an angel.

[Mavis]

Big stinkin surprise. And it wasn't just her. Everyone always abandoned me.

[Tendi]

I'm sorry that happened, Mavis. Genuinely. Nobody deserves to be abandoned like that. But listen, I can help you.

[Cash]

Huh?

[Mavis]

What makes you think you're different than anyone else? I'm a good person. But everyone treats me like I'm some kind of villain. I bet my daughter is dancing on my grave. I bet she's eating a Chili's right now, drinking a Presidente margarita and high fiving the waiters. Ungrateful little shit. Why didn't she die? Can you tell me that? Why me and not someone mean like her? Why do bad things always happen to good people?

[Tendi]

I don't know what a Chili's is, but that's really kind of harsh. Mavis. I don't think you mean that. What kind of parent would want their child dead?

[Mavis]

Oh, I'm a bad parent now?

[Tendi]

No, no, that's not what I'm saying. Look, come with me. I got something I think you're gonna like.

[Mavis]

Oh, please. I'm sure it'll be delightful. Okay, what rocks?

[Tendi]

Not just rocks. This, Mavis, is a rock labyrinth. Okay, Max usually the one to take people through the labyrinth, but he's not here right now. But that's not a problem, because I think I remember what to do. So we start here, and we take the path and we follow it to the center of the labyrinth. And then we look up. Now, there's no talking allowed. This is a time of reflection and quiet.

[Mavis]

So you want me to shut up? Typical.

[Tendi]

It's not about shutting up. It's about thinking and centering yourself. I think. Okay, let's start. I'll follow you. Take your time. Take deep breaths.

[Mavis]

Okay, let's do the rock labyrinth. We're walking to the center.

[Tendi]

That's right. Let's begin.

[Mavis]

John. Probably the fastest anyone's ever done it. Am I right?

[Tendi]

Mavis, that's not how it works. You're not supposed to just walk a straight line to the center.

[Mavis]

You're just mad because I figured out your stupid rock maze.

[Tendi]

It's not a puzzle to be figured out. Fine.

[Damian]

Whatever.

[Tendi]

Mavis, look up.

[Cash]

Look up.

[Tendi]

Yeah, yeah. Gaze at the stars and be in awe.

[Mavis]

Like I'm taking my eyes off of you.

[Mac]

Tendy. Are you serious? Seriously. Trying to rock labyrinth. That woman, does she strike you as a rock labyrinth? Er. Tendi, really? Come inside. Nani wants to talk with you.

[Tendi]

Mavis, I'm so sorry. I have to go inside. I'll be right back.

[Mavis]

Of course. Abandon me.

[Tendi]

I'm not Aba. I'll be back. Try the labyrinth again.

[Mavis]

Screw you. I'm not trying nothing.

[Tendi]

Fine. Mac, seriously, not a rock labyrinth?

[Cash]

Er.

[Tendi]

What does that even mean?

[Cash]

Look at this. Look at her bio.

[Tendi]

What is it? Look, if what's on this page is just something you can use to get me to give up, you can stop wasting your time.

[Cash]

Read it.

[Tendi]

No. I'm going back outside.

[Cash]

She was an abuser, Tendi. She was an emotional abuser. She was a physical abuser. She neglected her kid. Look at what she did to her daughter.

[Tendi]

No. Everyone makes mistakes.

[Cash]

Look, these aren't just mistakes, Tendi. These are the actions of a callous, hateful individual.

[Tendi]

So you're saying she's not redeemable?

[Cash]

I'm not saying that.

[Tendi]

Then what are you saying?

[Cash]

I'm saying you need to let her go. Say goodbye, stop taking the abuse.

[Tendi]

I'm going outside. Don't interrupt me. Again. Again. I'm trying to help a traveler.

[Cash]

There's something seriously wrong with your friend.

[Mac]

Yeah, he gets like that sometimes. The way he's acting right now, that's not tendy.

[Cash]

No, not sometimes, Mac. You're telling me you can't see it?

[Mac]

See what?

[Cash]

If a person could die here, he would have already done it. He is out there letting this woman call him names, making him feel small. And when she leaves here, he's gonna be left feeling like a failure. And he's not, huh?

[Mac]

You think it's that bad, huh?

[Cash]

I think it's that bad. I've seen the way he interacts with travelers. There's something under the surface, something really, really painful. And he's out there with her, and she's making it worse.

[Mac]

Well, okay, but what are we supposed to do about it? I've told him he needs to loosen up. Way away. Used a psychedelic flower to perform intensive psychotherapy on him one time, and it helped a little, but.

[Cash]

Psychedelic flower? I want to come back to that.

[Mac]

Andy's pretty much a grown man. Except for his arms. He's gonna make his own decisions. That's all there is to it.

[Cash]

Mack, are there any deep holes on the desert sphere?

[Mac]

There's a couple abandoned wells.

[Tendi]

Yeah.

[Mac]

I don't know why.

[Cash]

You ever fall down one?

[Mac]

No. Thankfully, my girth has prevented that from happening. You're looking at a bonafide cork.

[Cash]

Okay, well, what if I told you that I was gonna go outside and jump down one of those wells because I think it's the right thing to do?

[Mac]

I'd say you're nuts.

[Cash]

Yeah, well, what if I did it anyway?

[Mac]

Wait, are you seriously gonna do that? Are you about to do that? Don't. Don't do that.

[Cash]

I'm not gonna do it. But what if I did it? Seriously, what if I walked outside, found the well, and jumped inside?

[Mac]

I'd get a rope and I'd pull you out.

[Cash]

But I'm a grownup, Mac. If I want to sit at the bottom of a well, that's my decision.

[Mac]

Like hell. We'd get you out of there.

[Cash]

How? Against my will?

[Mac]

If that's what it takes. Yeah.

[Cash]

Yeah. Well, your friend is in a hole. Our friend is in a hole, and he thinks it's the right thing to do. So what should we do? Just leave him there?

[Mac]

No. But what can we do?

[Mavis]

We can intervene.

[Cash]

Come on.

[Tendi]

Okay, Mavis, I wasn't trying to hurt your feelings. I'm just saying it might be helpful if we went inside and went over.

[Mavis]

Your bio I don't want you in my business. You just want to make me feel bad, you sick, sadistic little asshole. You like getting into other people's businesses, don't you, sicko? Sticking your big nose where it doesn't belong.

[Cash]

Shut the hell up. I was gonna try to reason with you one last time out of respect for my dear friend here, but I think we're going straight to Plan B. Mack.

[Mac]

On it.

[Tendi]

Nani, I don't know what you're about to do, but don't.

[Cash]

Quiet, Tindy. Mavis, you are a terrible, terrible person. I read your bio front to back. Riveting. You're not the victim of a difficult childhood or life. You encountered challenges, sure, but you had people who loved you, people who tried so hard to love you. And because you're an entitled poop head.

[Mavis]

You felt like that love was somehow owed to you. Say one more word, bitch.

[Cash]

You know how I know you're a bad person?

[Mavis]

One more word.

[Cash]

You don't have any embarrassing childhood memories? You don't have any embarrassing memories. Not a single one. But, Mavis, you had so much you should have regretted doing and saying. Real humans get embarrassed by the things they do wrong.

[Mavis]

Well, I'm about to embarrass you. Let's see how nice those teeth are after this.

[Cash]

I figured you'd do as much. I'm entitled to defend myself, Mac.

[Mac]

Here you are.

[Mavis]

Bad, bad woman. No snacks for you.

[Cash]

You don't like that, huh? Tell him you're sorry.

[Mavis]

For what?

[Cash]

For being mean.

[Mavis]

Why are people always accusing me of.

[Cash]

Say you're sorry or you're gonna get the hose.

[Mavis]

Fine. I'm sorry.

[Tendi]

Nani. I don't.

[Cash]

Tendi, please. Mac.

[Mac]

Yeah?

[Cash]

Please get the car I left here ready for Mavis. And you.

[Mavis]

What?

[Cash]

You can wait out here. Do not say another word to anyone. When that car rolls around to the front of the station and you hear that driveway bell ring, get in the car and drive away. Tendi, walk with me.

[Tendi]

Okay.

[Cash]

Listen. I told you when I met you that I loved you, and I meant it. I told you that being friends with me was gonna cost you something and the first bills come due. As long as I'm here, I'm never gonna watch you be subjected to hateful words. I'm never going to sit idly by when someone tries to hurt you. I'm not going to watch you die inside. Tindi, I'm.

[Tendi]

What's wrong with me?

[Cash]

What?

[Tendi]

What's wrong with me?

[Cash]

Oh, there's nothing wrong with you, Tindy. I mean, yeah, but moment I hear.

[Tendi]

That driveway bell ring, I feel like my heart's gonna beat out of my chest. Sometimes it's so bad I have to grab the counter to keep from falling down because I get dizzy, because I can't breathe.

[Cash]

Is it always like that?

[Tendi]

I've gone through periods of time where it was better than others, but better, not gone.

[Cash]

What are you so afraid is going to happen?

[Tendi]

But I'm gonna fail them. That they're gonna leave here and they're gonna feel bad and it'll be my fault. They'll never make it to the next life. Or they'll turn around and they'll try going back. Or their shame is gonna make them sub out.

[Cash]

Tendi, you can't save everybody.

[Tendi]

Stop saying that. You make it sound so easy. But it's not easy. It's never been easy. From the day I woke up behind that counter and I saw that Buick pull up. I.

[Cash]

Sit down, Tendi. Come on, sit down.

[Mavis]

It's okay.

[Cash]

You're gonna be okay. Come here.

[Tendi]

I miss her so bad, Nani.

[Cash]

I know. I know.

[Tendi]

How do I get rid of this feeling?

[Cash]

I don't know the answer to that. I don't know if you can, but look at me. I'm never gonna let you feel alone. We're gonna find a way to. Hey. What are you doing here? What did he say?

[Tendi]

I don't understand him. You'd have to ask Mac.

[Cash]

Oh, I forgot. Why can't he talk to animals and you can't again?

[Tendi]

That's a. That's a great question. And there doesn't seem to be an answer to it.

[Cash]

Hmm.

[Tendi]

Nani, I'm so sorry I didn't say anything when Mavis slapped you.

[Cash]

Hey, I said apology accepted. And when I say apology accepted, you better believe it. Okay, Come on, let's go eat some chocolate and talk about our feelings.

[Tendi]

Do I have a choice?

[Cash]

No, you have no choice in the matter. No.

[Mac]

I'm checking out this car for a person who's so mean. Then I'll pull her around the station and I'll give it gasoline. Cause even though she isn't nice, it still seems clear to me that other people being mean don't mean I have to be. Oh, hey, bud. Yeah? I wrote that song, like, right here, right now, on the spot. Impressed? What?

[Mavis]

Why?

[Mac]

What do you mean? It's time. Yeah, yeah, the wash. I can bring him there. I'll do it right after I get this car ready. Did you know sometimes people leave wrappers under the seat and stuff when the car Makes a round trip and arrives back at the station. The trash stays in the car. Sounds like a bug to me. One time I found a whole uneaten donut in the glove compartment and it was so stale. But I still ate it though. And Tendi said. Wait, what's this? Oh yeah, it's just a. Look at this. It's a map. An old one. Call me crazy, Weiwui, but I think that handwriting is the old attendance. I'd know it anywhere. He used to mark up the BIOS quite a bit. Was this his car? I don't know whose handwriting this is though. Who puts hearts instead of dots above the eyes? That's wild. I'm gonna start doing that. I know, but you know, the old attendant took Tandy's car when he got here. I always wondered what happened to it. I guess someone must have taken it all the way to the next life. Why else would Nani have arrived here with it? I'm not nosy. Why would you even say that? I should talk to Tendi about this. Yeah, you're right at he's not in a good place. I can wait to bring this up another time. Yep, I'll bring him over there. As soon as Ms. Mavis has hit the road. We'll see how far she can make it this time.

[Damian]

This episode was written, produced and performed by me, Jared Carter. The show is executive produced by the marvelous Michael Freiberg. Thank you for listening. Until next time, safe travels.

[Jared Carter]

The Fable and Folly Network where fiction producers flourish.

[Lilz]

Please try to get some sleep tonight.

[Cash]

I've been trying to sleep all week. Nothing helps.

[Lilz]

You could try a sleep sound.

[Cash]

No thanks. You've had enough nightmares for the both of us.

[Lilz]

Let me go. Come on. The medication has nothing to do with that. I haven't had a bad dream in ages.

[Cash]

Ever since you're a highly problematic affair in Idaho.

[Lilz]

Oh my God. Never stop. Nothing happened.

[Cash]

Nothing happened.

[Lilz]

Well, you still haven't told me who you're bringing to graduation.

[Tendi]

Oh, your heart is racing.

[Cash]

How can you tell?

[Tendi]

You're lying on top with me.

[Cash]

What if I don't want anyone else.

[Lilz]

To know yet and it wasn't a bad dream?

[Cash]

I don't know, Christopher.

[Tendi]

You know.

[Lilz]

Can't you appreciate that I'm trying to help you here?

[Cash]

Thanks for the pills.

[Mavis]

Lilz.

[Cash]

Dreamers Season 2 by Broken Crown.

[Christopher]

Productions Tune in weekly wherever you listen to podcasts.