Chapter 20 - If I Have to Wait a Million Years

Summary

Desert Skies Podcast - Chapter 20: If I Have to Wait a Million Years

Release Date: November 11, 2024
Host: Jared Carter
Podcast Description: Desert Skies transports listeners to the mystical Astral Plane Fuel and Service Station, a celestial pit stop for travelers embarking on journeys through the cosmos. Hosted by characters such as the Attendant, the Mechanic, and C.A.S.H. Register, each episode unfolds unique adventures and profound insights into the celestial voyage.

---

Episode Overview

In Chapter 20: If I Have to Wait a Million Years, listeners delve deeper into the enigmatic Astral Plane Fuel and Service Station. This episode weaves a tale of curiosity, memory, and the eternal search for connection. As the protagonists navigate the mysteries of the astral realm, they encounter new characters, confront past regrets, and seek answers that bridge the realms of the living and the departed.

---

Setting the Scene

The episode begins with a serene atmosphere as Tendi and Nani find themselves lingering in a cave near the Astral Station. Their repeated attempts to uncover the cave's secrets suggest a lingering purpose tied to the celestial journey they are on.

Tendi expresses uncertainty about their continued presence:

“We've been down here a while, guys. Think maybe we should, I don't know, go grab a snack or something?”
[03:37]

Nani reflects on their repeated visits:

“This is our third time down here. Do you think maybe we're wasting our time?”
[03:47]

Despite their doubts, they sense an unresolved element compelling them to stay:

“I know that I heard something. And I know if I heard it again, I'd recognize it. Whether or not it was Nani, I can't be 100% certain, but I think it's worth trying to find.”
[04:00]

---

The Mysterious Encounter with Malloy

Their contemplation is interrupted when they encounter Malloy, a peculiar traveler with an obsession for forming a clique. Initially appearing unsettling, Malloy's interactions introduce an element of tension and curiosity.

Upon meeting Malloy, Tendi attempts to establish rapport:

“Hello, there. Pleasure to meet you. My name is Abraham, and this is Dorothy.”
[12:47]

Malloy scrutinizes their identities, revealing his own vulnerabilities:

“I hate this feeling. This will be a bad memory.”
[09:22]

A significant moment occurs when Malloy attempts to integrate Tendi and Nani into his "Clique of Malloy," highlighting themes of acceptance and belonging:

“We have a clique. It is super special. And you should feel super honored that I'm inviting you.”
[16:00]

Despite initial resistance, Tendi and Nani navigate the interaction with empathy and strategic dialogue, aiming to uncover Malloy's true intentions.

---

Exploring the Pool of Forgetfulness

The protagonists discover a cryptic sign leading them to the Pool of Forgetfulness, a mystical site purported to erase memories. This discovery serves as a pivotal plot device, symbolizing the struggle between holding onto the past and the desire to move forward.

Nani deciphers the inscription:

“The Pool of Forgetfulness. Enter with caution. Bad memories can be a source of pain, but also a gift. Don't unburden yourself. Of them lightly.”
[10:28]

As they investigate further, they stumble upon remnants of personal histories, including a torn journal belonging to Nani. This revelation deepens the emotional undertones, connecting the characters' present quest with their haunted pasts.

---

Unveiling Hidden Memories

Through the torn journal, Nani uncovers fragmented memories that shed light on her lingering regrets and unfulfilled promises. These entries reveal a poignant backstory:

“I arrived on the Agricultural Sphere a little while ago. Sphere 16. Just hearing that number is bittersweet... One of just a few things you have in common. Later, I plan to visit the.”
[27:32]

“How long is eternity? How could I have waited this long?... I love you. My precious boy. I know. You're not a boy anymore. You're a man.”
[29:08]

These excerpts illustrate Nani's internal conflict and the eternal wait for reconciliation, emphasizing the episode's central theme of time and memory.

---

The Mechanic's Urgent Broadcast

Amidst their exploration, Mac, the Mechanic, delivers an urgent broadcast to Cash and Corson, indicating escalating dangers:

“Desert Skies FM. Greetings travelers. This is Mack the attendant speaking... Weiwei is on his way to help you. To protect you from any and all possible dangers...”
[23:23]

This broadcast injects a sense of urgency and impending threat, driving the narrative toward a climax where alliances and timely interventions become crucial.

---

Confrontation and Revelation

As tensions mount, Malloy's desperation becomes apparent. His inability to erase his memories without erasing who he is leads to a confrontation with Tendi and Nani:

“Why is this so important to you?”
[34:10]

“Because that book isn't fiction. It's real. It's mine. And I have to know what's in it.”
[34:21]

This exchange culminates in Malloy's realization of his own mortality, blurring the lines between the living and the dead:

“I'm dead. Excuse me.”
[34:34]

---

Climactic Resolution

The episode reaches its climax as Tendi and Nani piece together the significance of their discoveries. Nani deciphers the final journal entry, uncovering the depth of her eternal wait and the profound connections that bind her to others:

“You got at least 33 opportunities, but with any luck, the coyote is going to catch you first... I promised that that would never happen to you again. One day, I'll make it up to you. I love you.”
[29:08]

This heartfelt revelation propels Tendi and Nani to seek out Weiwei, trusting in his wisdom and the promise of assistance in their quest.

---

Themes and Insights

Chapter 20 delves into several profound themes:

• Memory and Forgetfulness: The Pool of Forgetfulness symbolizes the delicate balance between remembering and letting go, illustrating how memories shape identity.

• Isolation and Connection: Characters grapple with feelings of isolation, seeking connection and acceptance within an otherworldly community.

• Eternal Waiting: Nani's eternal wait encapsulates the human desire for reconciliation and the pain of unfulfilled promises.

• Acceptance of Mortality: Malloy's realization of his own death underscores the inevitability of mortality and the importance of embracing one's existence.

---

Conclusion

Chapter 20: If I Have to Wait a Million Years masterfully intertwines personal narratives with celestial mysteries, offering listeners a rich tapestry of emotion and intrigue. Through the interactions of Tendi, Nani, and Malloy, the episode explores the enduring human struggles with memory, connection, and the passage of time. As the protagonists inch closer to uncovering deeper truths, the stage is set for continued adventures in the celestial spheres.

---

Notable Quotes

• Tendi on Hope:
  “Don't give up hope, Nani. Maybe there's still an answer here.”
  [29:03]

• Nani on Selflessness:
  “I'm always the first to ask if somebody needs a hug. You're always willing to listen and to lend a hand.”
  [05:50]

• Malloy on Memory:
  “No, no, don't say it. If you tell me your bad memory, then I'll have a bad memory of your bad memory.”
  [15:25]

These quotes encapsulate the episode’s exploration of hope, selflessness, and the complexities of memory, reinforcing the emotional depth of the narrative.

---

Join the Journey:
Stay tuned for Chapter 21 and the season finale, Chapter 22, as Tendi, Nani, and their allies continue their celestial voyage. Support the show by joining Club 86 for exclusive perks and early access to episodes.

Follow Desert Skies:
Website: desertskiespodcast.com
Discord: discord.gg/7fuUU78mUh
Merch: desertskies.myshopify.com

---

This summary captures the essence of Chapter 20, highlighting key plot developments, character interactions, and thematic elements to provide an engaging overview for both new and returning listeners.

Transcript

[Tendi]

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[Malloy]

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[Tendi]

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[Malloy]

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[Tendi]

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[Malloy]

Big deal.

[Tendi]

Meet. You get to choose from four entrees like the supreme croissant and five tasty sides, plus a drink starting at $5.

[Malloy]

So hurry in or take your time.

[Tendi]

You've got all day at Jack. Every bite's a big deal. Hello friends. Before starting today's episode, I'd like to take a moment to welcome the newest members of Club 86. In this round of shout outs, we're going to hand out some complimentary hot dogs with the condiments of your choice. You know, I eat hot dogs every single year on my birthday. Weird, huh? This is of course completely not real. The birthday thing is, but not the food. But you can always pretend. Please welcome the following folks to the station. Shawnee, Mother to all, here's your bacon wrapped hot dog with mustard and spicy relish. Yoi Saboten. Here's your mushroom garlic barbecue sauce and provolone dog. Wild love the creativity south wing barbecue sauce and pickles. Not relish because you think relish is weird. Shawn Francis, here's yours with relish. Catherine with the sauerkraut. Awesome choice. Knight the classic chili with cheese. The one and only Apex. This dog comes smothered in pulled pork cheese. Jalapeno on bacon bits. I know Mac would love that one. Vaughn classic dog covered in that chipotle sauce that they have at your favorite gas station. Love it. Erica Nagy, the classic duo of mustard and relish. Jennifer, Mustard relish and onions. Gus Flanagan. You do not like hot dogs so.

[Malloy]

I banish this hot dog to the physical plan.

[Tendi]

That was stupid. Leonidas with another cheese and chili. Jameson chili sharp cheddar cheese with a spicy sour cream. Library Mama. Great name. Veggie dog with the most classic of all ketchup and mustard. M Veggie dog with curry, ketchup and onions. Curry ketchup is the bomb. And a humble anonymous traveler with another chili and cheese. I see you Corpse Wax. Julie Dallas. Nikki Nikopul. Alexandra Mafia Koosh Mafia. Kara Jennifer. Tess Welker. John Aaron Lucaluk. Didn't hear. So you get my favorite. Yellow mustard, diced dill pickles, diced onions, peppers and celery salt. Known around these parts as a daddy dog. If you don't like onions, just pick them off, baby. Join Club 86 and you'll get the next DSFM Chapter 21 and the season finale, Chapter 22. Right now, you'll also get access to all kinds of Great perks, from Club 86 Only 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. Thank you to all who have joined. For real, you're making Desert Skies possible. To join Club 86, just visit patreon.com desertskies or click the link in the show notes below. Now it's time for chapter 20. If I have to wait a million years, enjoy the show. For the best listening experience, headphones are recommended.

[Mac]

We've been down here a while, guys. Think maybe we should, I don't know, go grab a snack or something?

[Tendi]

You can. Mac, I don't mind sticking around a little longer.

[Nani]

This is our third time down here. Do you think maybe we're wasting our time?

[Mac]

Yeah, but are you sure you even heard what you think you heard?

[Tendi]

I know that I heard something. And I know if I heard it again, I'd recognize it. Whether or not it was Nani, I can't be 100% certain, but I think it's worth trying to find.

[Mac]

You want me to grab you guys some Pringles or something?

[Tendi]

Too crunchy. It'll make it harder to hear.

[Mac]

You can just let the Pringle dissolve on your tongue. It's a trick and it's pleasant.

[Tendi]

Wait, here comes one.

[Nani]

And along those same lines, I must also apologize for the way I spoke.

[Mac]

To your father on our wedding day. Once we were secured in matrimony, I.

[Nani]

Believed it a fine opportunity to tell.

[Mac]

Him it was time for him to piss the hell off. Perhaps I could have chosen my words better.

[Nani]

Ooh, I like that one.

[Tendi]

Me, too. I actually enjoy listening to these quite a bit.

[Nani]

It's sad, but it's also hopeful. So many of these are apologies. Late apologies, but still. People regret the mistakes they made in life. And that says something about them. Even if it took dying to come to realize they'd messed up.

[Tendi]

Yeah, you're right.

[Mac]

I feel like it'd be a mistake if I don't grab a snack. I'll flip the sign over and handle a few travelers while I'm up there. Sure y'all don't need nothing thanks, Mac.

[Tendi]

We're good.

[Mac]

Suit yourself.

[Nani]

So how does it feel?

[Tendi]

How does what feel?

[Nani]

You're all Zen now. It's gotta feel pretty strange. I mean, no offense, but you were stressed. Now you just seem totally at peace. Yeah, I consider myself a pretty carefree person, but even I still get concerned about things.

[Tendi]

People. You care a lot about him.

[Nani]

I do.

[Tendi]

Not so much about yourself. You're a very selfless person. Maybe to a fault.

[Nani]

What do you mean?

[Tendi]

You're so caring of others. Do you feel like you're caring for yourself?

[Nani]

Well, I think so.

[Tendi]

You're always the first to ask if somebody needs a hug. You're always willing to listen and to lend a hand. Sometimes I feel like maybe the rest of us aren't very great at reciprocating.

[Nani]

That's really sweet of you to notice, but I think I'm okay. Something inside of me loves to love people. It makes me happy. Fills me with joy.

[Tendi]

That's really special. I hope to grow in that.

[Nani]

Just stick with me, kid. I will show you the way.

[Tendi]

I look forward to gleaning some wisdom from you.

[Nani]

Thanks for letting me stay here, for making me feel like part of the team.

[Tendi]

You're welcome. But I feel like maybe we should be thanking you.

[Nani]

Quiet.

[Malloy]

I think I hear a whisper. You were gonna break another toe.

[Tendi]

That's not a whisper.

[Nani]

Someone else is down here.

[Malloy]

I am in total agreement, Liron. We would certainly become pickles if we spend too long bathing in vinegar.

[Nani]

Who's he talking to? How many of them are there?

[Malloy]

Rutledge, when's the last time you brushed your teeth?

[Nani]

Uh, excuse me. Hello? Sorry to interrupt. Where did he go? I can't see far enough with the candle. Tandy, use the flashlight.

[Malloy]

Salutations.

[Tendi]

Oh, gosh.

[Malloy]

Well, that hurt.

[Nani]

I am so sorry. My first flinch was to punch, but you shouldn't have snuck up on us like that.

[Malloy]

Oh, sorry. It's been such a long time since we've seen anyone down here.

[Nani]

Here, let me look at your nose.

[Malloy]

Unnecessary. Thank you kindly. I can have Dr. Lotus look at it later.

[Nani]

Dr. Lotus, how many of you are there down here?

[Malloy]

11. That includes me, Dr. Lotus, Bill the Dubious, and the eight gentlemen you see behind me.

[Tendi]

Um, sir, there's no one behind you.

[Malloy]

I agree, Rutledge. They are strange.

[Nani]

Tendee. What do we do?

[Tendi]

What is your name?

[Malloy]

I. M. Malloy.

[Nani]

How long have you been down here?

[Malloy]

What do you mean, down here?

[Nani]

Down here in the cave.

[Malloy]

What are you implying?

[Tendi]

She's asking how long you've been stuck down here underground.

[Malloy]

Is that what you say, Verginius? That they've lost their minds? I concur. New friends, you have lost your mind. The way you're carrying on, the things you're saying. I hate them. They make my shoulders tight and my left arm tingly.

[Tendi]

We are not trying to.

[Malloy]

Or be. You are so right. How rude of me. I haven't asked your names. You two.

[Tendi]

I'm Tendi.

[Nani]

I'm Nani.

[Malloy]

Are those your real names?

[Tendi]

Not really.

[Malloy]

Well, that's not going to do. Honesty, transparency. These are the qualities that all of my companions must have if they wish to join my clique.

[Tendi]

Your clique?

[Malloy]

See my friends behind me?

[Tendi]

No.

[Malloy]

I call them the Clique of Malloy. We're a band of companions. Companions? Close friends who enjoy each other's company. Now, give me your real names in the spirit of honesty and transparency and we will vote. And you might be able to join our clique.

[Tendi]

Well, we don't know our names and we're not really interested in joining a clique. But we could use your help with something. We're looking for a whisper. It says something about waiting a million.

[Malloy]

You don't want to join my clique?

[Nani]

I'm sure it's a wonderful.

[Malloy]

You don't want to join my clique.

[Nani]

Don't get upset. You want a hug?

[Malloy]

Not from you. I feel rejected.

[Tendi]

We're sorry.

[Malloy]

I hate this feeling. This will be a bad memory.

[Nani]

It doesn't have to be.

[Malloy]

No, it doesn't. Goodbye. Come along. Click.

[Tendi]

Um, Nani, we should follow him.

[Nani]

Are you sure? He's a little creepy.

[Tendi]

Yeah, he is. But he's also a traveler. It's our job to help him.

[Nani]

Our job? Our job.

[Tendi]

I mean, I know you're not officially an attendant, but.

[Nani]

But I am a part of the team.

[Tendi]

Of course you are. Sometimes I think maybe you're the leader of the team.

[Nani]

No way. I don't want that responsibility. Alright, we got a traveler that needs our help.

[Tendi]

This place is not easy to navigate. I'm not sure where to find him.

[Nani]

I think maybe that way.

[Tendi]

Are you sure? I thought he went that direction.

[Nani]

Did you hear that?

[Tendi]

Yeah. It came from that direction. From inside there.

[Nani]

What's in there?

[Tendi]

I don't know, but that's where the splashing sound was coming from.

[Nani]

Let's check it out. This is kind of fun.

[Tendi]

This is kind of fun.

[Nani]

Look here. A sign.

[Tendi]

What does it say?

[Nani]

The Pool of Forgetfulness. Enter with caution. Bad memories can be a source of pain, but also a gift. Don't unburden yourself. Of them lightly.

[Tendi]

Nani, look.

[Nani]

Are those his clothes?

[Tendi]

Yep.

[Nani]

There's a naked man in there?

[Tendi]

Yep.

[Nani]

God, this is so strange. I love it. Let's go. Foreign.

[Tendi]

It says instructions. Before you enter the pool, envision the memory you wish to forget. Hold it there, then jump in. Caution. This pool is meant to be used once and once only. Side effects may occur if multiple sessions are attempted.

[Nani]

I think maybe we're beginning to understand our new friend.

[Tendi]

Here he comes.

[Malloy]

Yes, I see them. Well, hello there. To whom do I have the pleasure of addressing Orbi? What do you mean? I've never seen these two in my life. Agree to disagree. As I was saying. Who are you?

[Nani]

I am Nani, and this is Tendi. We just met you literally just a moment ago. Can you put some clothes on?

[Malloy]

Your name sound made up. Are those your real names?

[Nani]

What in the hell?

[Tendi]

Nani. Nani. He jumped into the pool. You can. Because he wanted to forget us. Because we hurt his feelings.

[Malloy]

You hurt my feelings? How?

[Nani]

By not joining your clique.

[Malloy]

Why didn't you want to join my clique?

[Nani]

Because we have things to do and don't have time to join your crew.

[Malloy]

I see. Oh, hello. Who are you?

[Tendi]

None. Let's try a different approach. Follow my lead. Hello, there. Pleasure to meet you. My name is Abraham, and this is Dorothy.

[Nani]

Dorothy.

[Malloy]

Wonderful. Pleased to meet you. Abraham and Dorothy. Those sound like mighty fine real names. My name is Malloy.

[Tendi]

Hi, Malloy. Hey, can you tell us a little bit about this pool?

[Malloy]

The pool behind me?

[Tendi]

Yeah, we'd love to learn more about it, wouldn't we? Not I. I mean Dorothy. Dorothy? Where'd you go?

[Nani]

Sorry about that. I just had to run a quick errand. Malloy, I believe these are yours.

[Malloy]

Would you look at that? Thaddeus, this woman brought me my clothes. I hope it's not because you think I have an unattractive body that I need to cover up.

[Nani]

What? No.

[Tendi]

No, no, no. You have a remarkable frame.

[Malloy]

I told you, Rutledge, I have a remarkable frame. She brought me my clothes because. Because?

[Nani]

Because you looked cold.

[Malloy]

Because I looked cold. You were asking about my pool.

[Tendi]

Yeah. How many times have you jumped in? Hmm.

[Malloy]

I don't know. A lot. I think every time something happens that I want to forget, I jump right in. Sometimes I remember things from very long ago.

[Nani]

Such as?

[Malloy]

Not sure. I think I've managed to clear myself most of it. Thank goodness. That bad stuff?

[Tendi]

Whoa.

[Malloy]

I'd rather not. You know what I mean.

[Tendi]

Oh, absolutely. Better to bury those thoughts than hold on to them.

[Malloy]

Bury? I had A friend named Barry in the second grade. What happened to him? Oh, that's right. He moved away on my birthday. We had planned on watching the new Abbott and Costello movie, but he was too busy hacking. Excuse me.

[Nani]

Oh, my God.

[Malloy]

Oh, hello, Dorothy and Abraham.

[Tendi]

You remember us?

[Malloy]

Of course I remember you. We were just talking, weren't we?

[Nani]

Yes, but you were just about to put your clothes on and then tell us about the pool.

[Malloy]

That's right. I can do both at the same time. The pool. The pool is quite possibly the most amazing thing that you could possibly imagine. Possibly. Take you, for instance. I'm assuming you have bad memories.

[Nani]

Well, only really recent ones, but yeah. For instance.

[Malloy]

No, no, don't say it. If you tell me your bad memory, then I'll have a bad memory of your bad memory. And then I'll have to take these clothes right off.

[Nani]

Forget I said anything.

[Tendi]

But don't bad memories play a significant part in making us who we are?

[Malloy]

Oh, I'm sure they do. But if they've already made us who we are, there's no reason for us to hold on to them.

[Tendi]

I guess that kind of makes sense. But. And I know this sounds crazy, does it cause any side effects?

[Malloy]

Side effects?

[Tendi]

You know, sore muscles, dryness of skin, hallucinations.

[Malloy]

No, I can promise you, silly boy, there's no side effects. Right, Mr. Pickle? You're smart for a pickle. Maybe I will take a bath in vinegar. Look, new friends, this is very forward of me, but would you like to join? My friends and I, we have a clique. It is super special. And you should feel super honored that I'm inviting you.

[Tendi]

Oh, we absolutely are. It's so nice to meet you.

[Malloy]

And my friends.

[Tendi]

Oh, yeah, and your friends, Mr. Pickle.

[Malloy]

And Thaddeus and Rutledge and Virginius and Orbee and Sparklehead and Hot Dog man and Jimmy Stewart and the Shadow and. Basketball Butt.

[Nani]

Basketball butt?

[Malloy]

It's a very serious condition. Not sure why you're making fun.

[Tendi]

You'll have to forgive Dorothy. She's not making fun of ba. Him. She has a condition. I take care of her.

[Malloy]

What's that? I agree, Thaddeus. I think he's friendly and polite as well. Shall we vote? Sorry, Orbi, but you are the only neigh. Dorothy. Abraham. Welcome to my clique.

[Nani]

Oh, wow. This is so exciting. What does your clique do exactly?

[Malloy]

Well, we walk around and talk with one another about this and that and how to be a good man.

[Nani]

Can't wait. So, how long have you been down?

[Tendi]

Not down.

[Nani]

How long have you been here?

[Malloy]

Well, aren't you curious? A very long time ago. We were here when there were still coyotes in the caves. We were here when the painter came and painted our favorite painting. We were here when the woman lived here. She only lived here for about 20 minutes, as I remember.

[Nani]

There was a woman who only lived here for 20 minutes.

[Tendi]

Mm.

[Malloy]

Wait, wait. She sounded a lot like you. You sound a lot like her. May I see your face?

[Nani]

Okay. Tendi, the flashlight, please. Yeah, here it is. My face.

[Tendi]

Oh. You are her.

[Malloy]

Welcome back. I'm sorry. I didn't think I'd ever ask for your name in the 20 minutes that I knew you. Dorothy. Lovely. I really should have asked.

[Nani]

Oh, that's okay. I lived here. Abraham. Isn't that crazy? Do you remember anything else from when I was here for like, 20 minutes?

[Malloy]

Hmm, maybe. I'm not sure. All I know is that you must have decorated your home very quickly, which is quite impressive considering how spectacular it is.

[Tendi]

Can you show us this home?

[Malloy]

I'd be happy to. Forgive me if I don't go inside. That place gives me the heebie jeebies.

[Nani]

Why?

[Malloy]

You'll see.

[Tendi]

Hey, I'm Ryan Reynolds. Recently, I asked Mint Mobile's legal team if big wireless companies are allowed to raise prices due to inflation. They said yes. And then when I asked if raising prices technically violates those onerous two year contracts, they said, what the are you talking about? You insane? Hollywood. So, to recap, we're cutting the price of mint unlimited from $30 a month to just $15 a month. Give it a [e-mail] switch. $45 upfront payment, equivalent to $15 per month. New customers on first three month plan only.

[Nani]

Taxes and fees.

[Tendi]

Extra Speed slower above 40 gigabytes.

[Nani]

ET details.

[Tendi]

Um, I think I just won my taxes. Yeah, I just switched to HR Block in about one minute. All I had to do was drag and drop last year's return into H.

[Nani]

And R Block and bam.

[Tendi]

My information is automatically there so I.

[Nani]

Don'T have to go digging around for.

[Malloy]

All my old papers to switch.

[Nani]

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. It's better with block.

[Mac]

Well, thanks. It was great to meet you too. You're gonna love the Astral Plane. Oh, hey, bud. I think I know why you're here. Ah, it's no problem at all. As easy as placing an order. You think I would tell someone? What kind of friend do you think I am? I mean, Actually, now that I think about it, I am kind of a blabbermouth. But for you, Bud, I'm absolutely not gonna say anything. Ah, you're so welcome. Besides, there's absolutely no shame in enjoying cat food. Six cans of Fancy Feast, as requested. Not sure who they make this stuff for. Maybe the cats that live on the sphere of dead pets who live in tiny trailers on a sphere? That's one gigantic trailer park. Alright, I'm just gonna slip this bag over your neck here. That's not too heavy, is it? I'm not implying that. I just asked. You're the strongest coyote I know. Oh, gotta answer that one. One sec, bud. You've reached Ezra Skies Astral Plane fuel and service Center. Mac, the mechanic speaking. I mean, attended. Okay, it's hard to get used to. How can I help you? Oh, hi, Jerry. How's the long pause? If y'all ever need a guitar player, I'm getting pretty good. Could always come by for a quick set. I'd expect some free fish balls.

[Nani]

Of course.

[Mac]

What's that? Nah, no, nobody else is here. Just Weiwei. Yep, I'm listening. What? She's there? Is she okay? Corson's there too. Oh, thank the prime mover. Hold on a sec. Wait, wait. Cash and Corson are on the second sphere. They're okay. Jerry, um. I should come there. Yeah, I know, but I've been so dang worried about her. I know, I know. Okay, look, thanks for letting me know. I'm just glad to know they're okay. Keep a good eye on them for me, will ya? I know. It makes me nervous too. What if this guy shows up on the forest sphere and Jerry isn't able to stop him? But he's right. There's. There's not much I could do. I know I'm strong, but Tendi'd never forgive me if I left. You would do that. Thank you so much, Weiwei. Really eases my soul to know Cash will be in such capable and protective paws. Yeah, love you too, dude. Be safe out there. Call as soon as you can. If I don't answer, just leave a message, alright? Not quite. Cash.

[Nani]

How can I be of service?

[Mac]

Do you have the number for the force sphere? Long pause. I do.

[Tendi]

Would you like me to dial it for you?

[Mac]

You can do that? I can.

[Tendi]

Would you like me to dial it for you?

[Mac]

Please do. Damn. Voicemail. Jared Way is on his way. Pick up, man. Come on. Alright, look, hopefully you get this message. Tell Cash and Corson do not go anywhere. Wait for Weiwei. Apparently this dude's scared of him. Uh, thanks. Bye.

[Tendi]

Damn.

[Mac]

I doubt Jerry can even hear the phone in that bar over the music. That's it. You think they got a radio in there? Worth a shot. Alright, T5 emergency broadcast. I got a message we need to get sent out real pronto as you request broadcasting now.

[Nani]

Incoming broadcast from the staff of Desert Sky.

[Mac]

Desert Skies fm. Greetings travelers. This is Mack the attendant speaking. Tendi and Nani aren't here at the moment. They're in the cave. No time to explain. This isn't gonna be a normal broadcast. This message goes out to Cash and Corson. I hope you guys are somewhere near a radio. Listen, I'm so glad to hear that you guys are doing okay. I know you got a lot going on and you've experienced a ton of really crazy stuff recently. But I got some good news for you. Weiwei is on his way to help you. That's right. One of the most clever, lovable, powerful sphere movers in all the astral plane is on his way to get to you. To protect you from any and all possible dangers to everyone else who's listening. Don't you pay no attention to this broadcast. Doesn't apply to you. Just hang tight, Cash, okay? Don't you worry. Not at all. And Corson, thank you so much. Oh, one second. Forgot to flip the sign. Greetings traveler. Sorry, didn't hear the car pull up. I'll be with you in just a moment. Anyways, Corson, thanks for being there. For Cash, we have a belt. Just a moment, pal. I'll be there in a sec. I'm sorry about Zocheelic, you guys. Jeremy told us. Hopefully this will all be over soon. Seriously, friend, I know you're probably scared. Give me a moment and I'll tell you why you're here.

[Tendi]

Oh, I know why I'm here. But do you?

[Malloy]

This is it. Like I said, I'd go inside with you, but I find this place, it's just a little bit weird.

[Nani]

You find this weird, Dorothy?

[Tendi]

No.

[Malloy]

You'll see. Take a step inside.

[Nani]

Come on, let's go.

[Tendi]

It's so dark in here.

[Nani]

Oh, point your flashlight back where you had it.

[Tendi]

Lanterns. Do you still have the matches we grabbed at the entrance?

[Nani]

Right here.

[Tendi]

Nani. This place. You were here? How long were you here?

[Nani]

Your guess is as good as mine.

[Tendi]

Look at all this stuff. There on the wall. That painting. It's beautiful. And terrifying. Are they holding their own heads?

[Nani]

The plaque says, artist Lucius Forsyth, double header. A gift given to me from a Kind ghoul who lives in a run down warehouse on the 13th sphere.

[Tendi]

Wow. And here. What's in this case?

[Nani]

This scale belonged to the grand trivia lizard leader of the 25th sphere. My prize for winning second place.

[Tendi]

Look at all these books. Where did you find these?

[Nani]

Tendi, I love your curiosity, and I feel bad saying this, but I don't know. Whoever stayed here is a stranger to me. But as long as we're asking unanswerable questions, if I was this close to the station, why did I never visit?

[Tendi]

I don't know. Maybe you did before my time. Or, and I think this is most likely you died before the station was even built. Which was no clue, a long time ago. Look here. Count of Monte Cristo. The Foundation Trilogy. A Christmas Carol. The bookcase is stuffed to the brim.

[Nani]

Except there.

[Tendi]

There's a book missing.

[Nani]

Hmm.

[Tendi]

There's a lot more to look at here. But so far, this only tells us one thing. You spent a lot of time on the Astral plane. And true to form, you were an explorer, a collector, a brave adventurer.

[Nani]

I like that. Ooh, is that a sword?

[Tendi]

Oh. Watch your step.

[Nani]

What? Did I trip? I think I just stumbled into our missing book.

[Tendi]

What is it?

[Nani]

Let's see. Tendi, this one is all torn to hell. Look, it's handwritten. You don't think that.

[Tendi]

It's your journal. Why was it on the floor? And why would someone rip it up? Maybe there's something in the pages that are left.

[Nani]

Let's see. Entry 72. I arrived on the Agricultural Sphere a little while ago. Sphere 16. Just hearing that number is bittersweet. The number of every sphere seems to remind me of something that I never got to see. Don't get to be there for. You'd have liked it here. Both of you. That pumpkin pie. Your favorite. One of just a few things you have in common. Later, I plan to visit the. It ends there.

[Tendi]

The next one.

[Nani]

Entry 132. Wow. I could not have imagined that something as simple as a hedge maze could take so long. I've always enjoyed getting lost. Wow. But this is just ridiculous. Whose idea was it to make an entire sphere of this? It reminds me of the time we visited the corn maze. Remember? It was the first time we did something together after. That's all there is on that page.

[Tendi]

Nani, are you okay?

[Nani]

I know that I. I can't remember anything about what this person is talking about. What I'm talking about here. But I think my soul does. You said that when you heard my whisper. It Said I would wait here if I had to wait a million years. I was waiting for someone. For someone's tindy willing to wait forever. But now I'll never find them. I wouldn't even recognize them.

[Tendi]

Them. Don't give up hope, Nani. Maybe there's still an answer here.

[Nani]

One more page.

[Tendi]

Here. Hand it over. I can read it. Entry 254. How long is eternity? How could I have waited this long? Seen so much, read so much. And I still have as much time left before me as I had when I started. And still I haven't found you. Either of you. Maybe I should have just stayed in the cave. There's someone here named Malloy, and he's obsessed with getting me to join his clique. When I can't take enough, I tell him he's dead. And he goes and jumps in the pool and forgets about me for a while. But he always comes back and introduces himself and we start all over again. I love the guy, but I can't stand him. And you know how much it takes to get me there. But even if the cave wasn't the right call, I still told creatures and persons I met across the spheres to keep an eye out for you. You got at least 33 opportunities, but with any luck, the coyote is going to catch you first. He's adorable. He barks and growls and whines at me, but I have no idea what he's saying. He's a good listener, though. I can tell. And I'm pretty sure he understands me. He'll know you when he sees you guys. I'm sure. You know what this means, don't you?

[Nani]

Weiwei knows who I am. Why wouldn't he say anything?

[Tendi]

This wouldn't be the first time Weiwei had access to knowledge he chose to keep from us. He knew Cash had been living in a cave nearby the station, but didn't show us until we needed to know.

[Nani]

You trust him?

[Tendi]

I do. We can ask him what he knows when we see him. Whether or not he tells us, that's up to him. There's more to read here. I'm headed back out there. I know it's crazy, but maybe I can find a way back to you. Isn't that dumb? But crazier things have happened, right? I thought about walking back the direction I came from when I first got here, but the coyote made it abundantly clear that it would be a mistake. This he accomplished by swiping his paw across his neck, which I believe was meant to convey that death awaited me If I went back that direction. Like death. Death. Double death. He seems trustworthy enough. Anyways. I don't know why I'm even writing this to you. It helps me keep going. It's like you guys are here. Oliver. You're going to have to forgive him. This was my fault, not his. The last thing I ever wanted to do was abandon you. I promised that that would never happen to you again. One day, I'll make it up to you. I love you. My precious boy. I know. You're not a boy anymore. You're a man. You reminded me of that often. But from the day you stepped into my home. Too big for your clothes. Closed, covered in bruises. Angry, confused. You are my boy. Mine now. Mine. Then and forever. And to my darling Lil. That's where it ends.

[Nani]

Oliver. His name is Oliver.

[Tendi]

Don't worry, Nani. I'll help you find him. Come on. Let's go back to the surface and see if we can find Weiwei.

[Nani]

Let's do it.

[Malloy]

Find what you're looking for?

[Nani]

Kind of. Not really.

[Malloy]

Told you it was spooky in there. That painting.

[Nani]

I thought it was cool.

[Tendi]

We also found this. Do you know anything about this book? Why it's torn up?

[Malloy]

I've read every book in that room. Always have. Had to run in and run out real quick. So that painting doesn't get me. Because I love these books. They were all happy and they were all sad, and they were all both. Sorry for borrowing without asking.

[Nani]

That's okay.

[Tendi]

You chose not to erase them from your memory.

[Malloy]

I thought about just erasing the sad parts, but then I. I figured the good parts wouldn't be so good no more. Besides, it's not like they're real stories.

[Tendi]

What does this have to do with this book?

[Malloy]

That book has lots of happy. A buttload of sad. I couldn't stop reading it. It's cool, right? It's handwritten. Almost reads like some kind of journal. I got a little bit obsessed and Rutledge said I should probably put it down. So I ripped it up and I tossed it back in the room so I couldn't read it anymore. Didn't matter, though. I read it so many times, I got it memorized.

[Nani]

You memorized it? Can you tell us what's in it?

[Malloy]

Oh, I'd love to. Let's see. Entry one. To my dear. Oh. What's that?

[Tendi]

What's what?

[Malloy]

Rutledge says I'm not allowed to recite it because I'll start obsessing over it again. Shame. It's a fantastic story. I don't know who comes up with this stuff, but it's written like it's a dead person communicating with the living. Kinda weird that it mentions me.

[Nani]

You have to tell us what was in that book.

[Malloy]

I can't.

[Tendi]

You have to.

[Malloy]

You all are making me upset. Why is this so important to you?

[Nani]

Because that book isn't fiction. It's real. It's mine. And I have to know what's in it.

[Malloy]

You mean that book isn't fiction?

[Nani]

No, it's not.

[Malloy]

Then that means. And that means you're dead. Which would mean. I'm dead. I'm not dead. Am I dead? Oh, my God. I'm dead. Excuse me.

[Tendi]

We gotta follow him.

[Nani]

Where'd he go?

[Tendi]

There. He dropped his pants. He's getting ready to swim.

[Nani]

His shirt's over there. We're never going to get to him in time.

[Tendi]

I don't remember how to get back there.

[Nani]

Maybe this way.

[Tendi]

Um. Maybe.

[Mac]

Yes.

[Tendi]

Oh, hey, Mac. You look white as a ghost. Everything okay?

[Mac]

I got some bad news.

[Tendi]

I wouldn't call it bad. I'd call it grim. Greetings, traveler. This episode was written, produced and all characters were performed by me, Jared Carter. The show is executive produced by the master of marketing and everything else, Michael Freiberg. Desert Skies will return with chapter 21. Until then, safe travels. The Fable and folly network where fiction producers flourish. Every story is a ghost story.

[Malloy]

When we tell an anecdote or a.

[Tendi]

Funny thing that happened to us.

[Malloy]

When we talk about the way things used to be.

[Tendi]

When we desperately try to touch the things that have faded. Anytime we remember, we're talking about ghosts. And ghosts want something. Palimpsest created by Jameson Ridenauer and Hayley Heininger. Embrace what haunts.