Chapter 26 - The Inter State (Part 1)

Summary

Desert Skies, Chapter 26: The Inter State (Part 1)

Podcast: Desert Skies
Host/Creator: Jared Carter
Date: November 17, 2025
Episode Overview:
This episode delves into the next stage of the afterlife journey, as the main characters prepare to cross from the desert realm into the mysterious Forest Sphere. After a car mishap, the group is forced to walk through a metaphysical transitional zone known as the "Inter State." The episode explores themes of memory, self-doubt, the purpose of the Spheres, and the evolving friendships between the characters as reality becomes slippery in the liminal Inter State.

---

Main Theme & Purpose

• Theme:
  The episode is about transition—not just geographically, but emotionally and metaphysically—exploring what it means to move from one phase of existence to another. The liminal "Inter State" acts as both a literal and figurative space for characters to confront their pasts, relationships, and sense of self between realms.

• Purpose:
  To deepen the lore of the Desert Skies universe, explore the complex relationships among the central characters, and introduce tension and mystery as they journey into unknown territory—both externally and internally.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Learning to Drive (02:36–05:15)

• Setup:
  Corson learns to drive a car for the first time, under the advice of companions Mac and Tendi. The scene is comic but also symbolic of moving into new phases.
• Key Moment:
  The challenge of transitioning from walking to driving is compared to life's challenges, highlighting unfamiliarity and the need for trust.

“For a guy who spent his entire existence walking, making the transition to car driving is quite the challenge. But you’re getting there.” — Tendi (03:00)

2. Crash & Aftermath (05:15–08:21)

• Setup:
  The driving lesson goes awry, leading to a crash. The group checks on each other and discusses practicalities, like spare tires and how to get help.
• Insights:
  The state of their vehicle mirrors their own uncertainty and the fragile nature of transitions between realms.
• Comic Relief:
  The conversation about Cash's robot and human bodies.

“Bodies are foldable. Cash, pop her in. You can take her for walks every once in a while, stretch her out.” — Mac (07:13)

3. Approaching the Inter State (08:21–12:00)

• Setup:
  The group notices a shift in the landscape, marking the end of the Desert Sphere and the approach to the Forest Sphere.
• Discussion:
  Dialogue focuses on the mysterious nature of the Inter State, how Spheres connect, and what this liminal zone truly is (“not quite astral, not quite physical”).
• Memorable Descriptions:
  Comparing the scent of the Inter State to “chamomile” and “blueberry Pop Tarts.”

“Something different. Something that isn’t quite astral, isn’t quite physical. It’s like it exists somewhere out of space and time.” — Mac (10:35)

4. Walking Through the Inter State: Reflections on Life & Violence (12:01–15:01)

• Setup:
  The group decides to walk through the Inter State despite its unnerving atmosphere. Dialogue turns introspective.
• Major Insight:
  Tendi admits surprise and sadness about how violence dominates memories of Earth, compared to the afterlife.
• Vulnerable Exchange:
  • Mac expresses insecurity about his past life and asks if he was part of the violence.
  • Tendi reassures Mac, expressing that he’s “one of the sweetest men who ever lived.”

“When I think of Earth, I think I’m just surprised that violence is one of the main things that comes to mind.” — Tendi (13:42)

5. Shared Memories & the Evolution of Friendship (15:01–22:37)

• Setup:
  Mac and Tendi reminisce about their relationship, marked by Mac’s relentless teasing and Tendi’s persistence.
• Key Story/Flashback:
  • The “noodle arms” jokes, moments of frustration, and growing mutual respect.
  • Flashback to a time when Tendi confronted Mac about constant teasing, leading to deeper understanding and camaraderie.
• Heartfelt Moment:
  Mac admits envy, respect, and affection for Tendi, breaking through their former antagonism.

“You got staying power and, well, you’re smarter than me… the truth is, I’m a little jealous. You’re a lot younger than me. You’re more self-disciplined. You got one hell of a work ethic.” — Mac (21:25)

6. The Inter State’s Reality-Bending Effects (22:37–30:12)

• Setup:
  Mac and Tendi find themselves suddenly reliving vivid memories at the station instead of walking through the Inter State. They discover odd objects (like a box of “Squeez-its” and Whoppers candy) and realize they’re stuck in a memory loop.
• Unsettling Twist:
  An unfamiliar presence appears, referencing “Mother,” suggesting something—and someone—watches and manipulates the Inter State space.

“You didn’t notice something? This isn’t the Interstate. We’re in this memory. We’re at the station.” — Mac (29:36)

7. Emotional Vulnerability & the Weight of the Job (26:32–29:21)

• Flashback:
  Tendi, in tears, worries about travelers (specifically a woman, Rhea) whom he couldn’t help move on, feeling he failed her.
• Contrast:
  Mac admits sometimes he has to “turn it off” to survive emotionally, while Tendi is always deeply invested.

“What could I have done or told her that would have set her on the path to the next life? I failed. Don’t you understand?” — Tendi (27:17)

“I think I got a part of me that can, you know, turn it off. Otherwise this job would kind of drive me nuts.” — Mac (27:57)

8. Conclusion & Cliffhanger (30:12–31:01)

• Setup:
  Mac and Tendi acknowledge they’re trapped in memory by the Inter State’s strange influence. They plan to pass the time together with Whoppers, but are intercepted by a mysterious entity talking about “Mother.”
• Tension:
  Raises new questions—Who is Mother? What is the Inter State truly capable of?

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Driving Lesson Fiasco

• "Stop trying to drive with one foot on the brake and one foot on the accelerator.” — Tendi (03:00)
• “If I have one foot on each pedal, it allows me to press the brake quicker in the event I need to.” — Corson (03:10)

The Nature of the Spheres

• “I’ve always thought of them more like ideas... something outside the physical. Like a sphere of influence.” — Mac (10:14)

Reflection on Earth

• “When I think of Earth, I’m just surprised that violence is one of the main things that comes to mind when I think of it.” — Tendi (13:42)
• “I thought you were gonna say something like tollbooths.” — Mac (13:51)

Friendship Earned

• “You still care if I feel like I’m dumb or not?... I’m a little jealous. You’re a lot younger than me. You’re more self-disciplined. You got one hell of a work ethic.” — Mac (21:22, 21:25)

Memory Trap Realized

• “This isn’t the interstate. We’re in this memory. We’re at the station.” — Mac (29:36)

---

Important Timestamps & Segments

| Timestamp | Segment/Topic | |-----------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 02:36 | Corson learns to drive; analogies of transition | | 05:15 | Car crash and post-crash assessment | | 08:21 | Noticing the boundary between Spheres | | 10:02 | Discussion about what the Spheres “are” | | 12:00 | Entering the Inter State; immediate sensations and hesitation | | 13:42 | Dialogue on violence and the perception of Earth | | 15:01 | Mac and Tendi’s flashback memory; “noodle arms” jokes; first hints of change | | 21:25 | Mac’s confession of jealousy and admiration for Tendi | | 22:37 | Realizing they are not progressing—they’re reliving the past | | 26:32 | Tendi’s breakdown over failing a traveler | | 29:36 | Discovery: "This isn’t the interstate. We’re in this memory." | | 30:40 | Apparition of the mysterious entity referencing “Mother” |

---

Overall Tone

• Wistful, comic, introspective, mysterious, and at times surreal.
• The group’s banter—full of running gags and nicknames—contrasts with moments of deep vulnerability and philosophical pondering. As reality frays, a sense of suspense enters, raising stakes for the transition to the next Sphere.

---

For New Listeners

This episode balances its trademark wit with weighty existential questions, explores complex character dynamics, and uses a narrative twist to keep listeners questioning the boundaries between reality and memory in the afterlife. It is equal parts road trip comedy, metaphysical meditation, and sci-fi mystery—offering rich character development and leaving the story on a foreboding note as the protagonists realize they (and perhaps the listeners) may never fully know what waits in the “Inter State.”

---

Listen For:

• Friendship and forgiveness (15:01–22:37)
• Allegorical and literal transition scenes (08:21–12:00; 22:37–31:01)
• Lore hints about the Spheres and “Mother”
• Surreal, reality-bending sequences

Cliffhanger Warning: The episode ends with the main characters trapped in a memory, confronted by a mysterious figure, ratcheting up anticipation for Chapter 26, Part 2.

Transcript

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[D]

Hi friends, this is Jared. Before today's episode begins, I want to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined Club 86 this week. NissanAcura Kaimara, Adrian Nagy, Buddy Lay, Alex Ryan, Nico, Starbucks Union Barista, Bethany and the Red Cup Rebellion, Eugene Hollander, Julie Bailey's, Bethany's Burger, Mallory Paremba, Naomi Costly, and of course, Ivory. When you sign up for Club 86, you're not just getting exclusive series, merch and ad free episodes. You're giving me the opportunity to keep bringing you the show. And for that I am definitely, deeply grateful. If you're Interested in joining Club86, just visit patreon.com desertskies or click the link in the show notes below. And while you're looking in the show notes, find links to our website, all of our different socials and join us on Discord. If you don't know what that is. It's kinda like AOL Instant messenger. But everyone's chill, welcoming and they love desert skies. With that, enjoy chapter 26, the interstate part one. For the best listening experience, headphones are recommended.

[C]

Okay, whoa, whoa, whoa. Stop, stop, stop. Take a deep breath. You're doing okay. I've changed my mind. I don't wish to continue. Don't be so hard on yourself. For a guy who spent his entire existence walking, making the transition to car driving is quite the challenge. But you're getting there. Now do me a favor what is it? Stop trying to drive with one foot on the brake and one foot on the accelerator. But I can't. But you need to. If I have one foot on each pedal, it allows me to press the brake quicker in the event I need to. It also makes it easier to make mistakes. Not to mention you keep pushing on both pedals at the same time, you're gonna ruin the brakes, which could lead to some bad times down the road. Very well. One foot. Which one? The right one. Of course. The correct one, but. Oh, I see what you're saying.

[B]

You got this, Corson.

[D]

You're doing fine.

[B]

It's just like the game of life. Corson.

[C]

You mean Corson's life.

[D]

That's kind of a lazy renaming.

[C]

All right, man. Ready? Don't call me man. Yes, I'm ready.

[D]

Good.

[C]

Nice and easy now. I'm so tempted to top the brake. Don't do it. But the temptation is there. It's pulling me. I must tap the brake. Resist, Corson, resist. The desire is growing. Don't let it hold you back from becoming the driver you're meant to be. The desire is subsiding. Now it is growing again. Don't let it. Now I feel that it has left me. I. I'm driving.

[D]

I'm driving.

[C]

Oh, look at me go.

[D]

Good job, Corson.

[B]

Well done.

[C]

Oh my goodness. This is fun. I'm going to roll down my window. Sure, but keep your on the road. Ah, that feeling. The wind blowing through my hair. It's so exhilarating. Haha.

[D]

Nice.

[C]

The desire to go faster is growing within me. You can go a little faster.

[D]

Oh my God.

[C]

Slow down, Corson. You're gonna take us off the road. I can't. Why in the world not? I don't have a foot on the brake pedal like you told me. I told you before, you use one foot for both. Take your foot off the gas and put it on the br Break.

[D]

Which one is the brake?

[C]

The one your foot isn't on. Is everyone okay? I'm okay. I'm sorry. Don't stress it, man. I'm just thankful that when we left the highway, we ended up in a clearing like this. Some cacti and creosote. Better than a boulder and palo verdes. Shouldn't be too much damage. You guys all right?

[D]

I'm okay.

[B]

Smacked my head pretty hard on the headrest, but it was soft enough that I'm okay.

[C]

That's the comfort of a skylark. Cash, what about you? Cash? I said, are you okay? Corson turned the light on which one? Is it there, next to the steering wheel. Oh yes, of course. Light on. Oh my God. What is it? She's dead, Mack. I know, I know. We're all dead. She just looks so dead. Where'd she go?

[B]

She's in the trunk.

[C]

I'll open it.

[B]

Hey, Robo girl, you alright? I'm okay. Embarrassed? A little.

[D]

Cause you transferred to the cash about. Yeah, your survival instincts kicked in. No big deal.

[C]

Survival instincts? Tindy, I thought we were dead.

[B]

Fair. Fair. Mac, I'm sorry. It's just I've spent the greater part of existence inside metal frames. Being in the flesh just feels kind of weird. So stay in your metal frame. I mean, what would we do with my body?

[C]

I think your robot frame is cool. Cash, just pop your body in the trunk.

[B]

There's not enough room in there with all the snacks and games. Maybe if we took some of the snacks out.

[C]

Bodies are foldable. Cash, pop her in. You can take her for walks every once in a while. Stretch her out. My existence was so less weird before I met you people.

[B]

You like it?

[C]

I love it. Actually, we got bigger things to discuss than Cash's frame. The skylark's got some scratches, but apart from that seems pretty alright. Only thing is, we got two pop tires.

[B]

Do we have any spares?

[C]

All skylarks come equipped with a compact spare. But only one. We need two. And either way, compacts will get you a ways. But they aren't great for long trips. What should we do? Well, we find a communication station, call Greg and Betty. They can submit a request for some new tires. Submit a request from whom? I don't know. They put the request in the cash unit they got there. It shows up in the trunk of a traveler skylark. It's how we got supplies. I see. And we wait for the traveler with the tires to come to us.

[D]

Correct.

[C]

How long will that take? Depends.

[D]

Hey guys, what is that?

[C]

What's what?

[D]

The sky. There. Down the road. It looks different.

[C]

Maybe it's my old man eyes, but I have no idea what you're talking about.

[D]

Well, it's barely visible. It's hard to describe.

[B]

Good catch, Tendi. It's actually the end of the desert Sphere.

[C]

Yeah, I think I can see the sign up ahead.

[D]

Interesting. I've only ever driven through. Didn't notice.

[C]

Same. It's so freaky. It's like the road ends and then boom. Forest scared the crap out of me the first time.

[B]

You think that's freaky? Try walking through it. It's something. I like it.

[C]

It's weird. Well, if that's the entrance to the Forest Sphere, we're gonna have to walk through it. There's a communications station about an eighth of a mile in near the Long Pause. I can call the station from there. Oh, Jerry, I'd love to see that bear again.

[B]

I'd love to drink a beer again. Well, then, let's start walking. This is it. Ready to go to the Forest Sphere?

[C]

Ready.

[B]

Okay, Just start walking and don't stop until you're all the way through.

[D]

Why?

[B]

Why what?

[D]

Why not just stop for a little bit.

[B]

You'll see. It's strange. I don't think it's a good idea to linger.

[C]

What is it, Cash?

[B]

It's called the Interstate.

[C]

You mean the Interstate.

[B]

No, I mean the Interstate.

[C]

Did you get into my shack, Juice? Cause I'll know if there's any missing.

[B]

It's what the Prime Mover called it. It's not an interstate. Why would there be an interstate in the middle of a highway?

[D]

So what's the Interstate?

[B]

I don't know for sure.

[C]

Where does it exist? Is it here or on the Forest Sphere?

[B]

Neither, I think. Okay, question. I've always wondered. Are the spheres like planets?

[D]

I've always thought of them as disks surrounding each other, like growing outward. Does that make sense?

[C]

Really? I've always thought of them more like ideas. Something outside the physical. Like a sphere of influence.

[B]

That's deep, Carson. Any guesses?

[C]

It doesn't matter to me in the slightest.

[B]

Fair. The truth is, nobody knows exactly. My guess is that they're not connected geographically, but connected by the interstate.

[C]

Which is what, again?

[B]

I don't know. Something different. Something that isn't quite astral, isn't quite physical. It's like it exists somewhere out of space and time.

[C]

And it smells faintly of chamomile.

[B]

Really? I always picked up on some blueberry Pop tart. What about you, Cash? I've never been able to smell when I walk through. Being a robot and all. Anyways, I don't suggest lingering there.

[C]

Neither do I. Something about it is strange.

[B]

Are you guys being serious? Yeah. It's weird, but it's also awesome. A little chill, a little elevating. You guys should totally hang out in there for a bit. Experience a higher state of consciousness. Come on, live a little while. You're still.

[D]

Hmm. I don't think so.

[C]

Well, I think she's right. Tind when are we gonna get to try this again? I mean, I guess we'll have like 30 something more times, but just why not do it now? Besides, what you said back at the rest area.

[D]

Yeah. Yeah, you're right. This is a good opportunity. I mean, what's the worst that can happen?

[B]

Okay, just be careful. I know we've experienced a lot of things that were unable to be explained, but the interstate is something more than that.

[D]

Okay.

[C]

This is weird.

[D]

I feel weird. I feel weird, too. It's kind of cool.

[C]

I'm trying to decide if I'm freaking out a little.

[D]

Why decide?

[C]

I don't know.

[D]

We've been through some really strange stuff together.

[C]

We sure have.

[D]

Sometimes I wish I had something to compare it to.

[C]

I know exactly what you mean.

[D]

Right. People who come from the physical plane straight to here have got to be so freaked out.

[C]

Yeah. You know what's weird?

[D]

What?

[C]

I got this real general understanding of Earth.

[D]

Yeah, me, too. We've talked about it.

[C]

Yeah, I know. When you think about Earth, what sticks out the most?

[D]

Well, before I answer, what is it for you?

[C]

Sleep. I just can't believe people got to sleep so much. I mean, I've taken some naps. You still take naps?

[D]

Yeah, at first, because I was so upset. But now just because they're kind of.

[C]

Nice, but there, they do it so much, they miss, like, a bunch of their life.

[D]

Yeah, it's strange.

[C]

So, what about you?

[D]

You remember why Olenus wanted Cassius Soul so much? Yeah.

[C]

Because he knew she was still alive on the physical plane. He wanted to eat life. Like the cereal. Wow. There's a game called Life and a cereal called Life? Yeah.

[D]

And we've had travelers who come here and they notice that it's missing life. It's not here, and they're sad about it.

[C]

What does this have to do with my question?

[D]

Here they care about life, and there it seems like they don't care about it much at all.

[C]

What do you mean?

[D]

I don't know exactly, but when I think of Earth, I think I'm just surprised that violence is one of the main things that comes to mind when I think of it.

[C]

Damn, man. I thought you were gonna say something like tollbooths or. Yeah. Yeah. I'm glad it's not violent here.

[D]

Yeah, I mean, it's a little violent sometimes, but you've had your fair share of bouts with travelers.

[C]

Yeah, I get a little fisty cuffy sometimes.

[D]

I'm surprised you've never hit me. When we first started working together, you didn't seem too happy with me. No. No, I wasn't.

[C]

Tandy, can I ask you something?

[D]

Of course.

[C]

Do you think I was violent back there?

[D]

What do you mean on the physical plane?

[C]

Yeah. When you talk about people not caring about other people's lives. Lives? Do you think I was like that?

[D]

No. No, Mac, not at all. Why are you so concerned with who you were all of a sudden?

[C]

I don't know. I mean. Yeah, I do know. It's cuz we're going back. What are we going back to?

[D]

Mack? Remember when Cash came back, she told you that you were one of the sweetest men who ever lived?

[C]

Yeah, but someone else said.

[D]

Someone else said what?

[C]

It's nothing.

[D]

Mac, nobody else here knows anything about who you were on the physical plane.

[C]

Yeah. Yeah, that's. That's right. Another question.

[D]

Yep.

[C]

We didn't like each other much when we first started working together. When did that change for you?

[D]

Wow, that's kind of a tough one. Do you remember?

[C]

No. No, I don't remember. It just kind of happened. Right?

[D]

Yeah. There had to have been some. Something. I mean, how else would we.

[C]

Whoa.

[D]

What? Who put this here?

[C]

Huh? Is there anything inside?

[D]

It doesn't look like it.

[C]

Why would anyone just leave a cardboard box sitting in the middle of the interstate?

[D]

You mean the inter state?

[C]

I said what I said.

[D]

Okay.

[C]

What's it doing here?

[D]

No clue.

[C]

Is there anything written on it? Fragile.

[D]

No, I don't think so. Oh, wait. Right here. It says Squeez its. What? Squeez its.

[C]

You don't remember?

[D]

No.

[C]

We used to get those at the station. They're a fruit drink you twist off the top.

[D]

Oh, they come in a six pack.

[C]

Those are the ones.

[D]

Yeah, I remember those were good. Wonder why they stopped sending them.

[C]

I don't know. I bet you we can find some on the sphere of Dougs or friends or whatever it's called now.

[D]

Oh yeah. Yeah, I bet we can. I. I just remembered something.

[C]

What's that?

[D]

I remember when things changed for me.

[C]

Yeah, like when your mind changed about me?

[D]

Yeah.

[C]

Well, when was it?

[D]

Do you remember that time? Cash register.

[B]

Yes, Attendant.

[D]

It looks like a traveler stole another one of our hoses.

[B]

Why do they keep doing that?

[D]

I have no idea.

[B]

Humans are so weird.

[D]

You're not going to hear any disagreements from me. Anyways, would you mind putting in a request for another one?

[B]

Of course. Attendant.

[D]

Hey, Cash.

[B]

Attendant.

[D]

What's my real name?

[B]

I don't know.

[D]

What's in the next life?

[B]

I don't know.

[D]

Who are the superiors?

[B]

Our superiors?

[D]

Yeah, but who are they?

[B]

I don't know.

[D]

What's at the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop?

[B]

A chewy chocolate flavored Tootsie Roll. How long are you going to ask me the same questions?

[D]

How long do you think the astral plane will be in existence?

[B]

Eternity.

[D]

Then. About that long.

[B]

I see.

[D]

Do you know where Mack is? I need him for something. Right here.

[C]

What you need?

[D]

For you to stop doing that.

[C]

Okay, I will.

[D]

But you didn't. Haha.

[C]

Nope. Back to the story.

[D]

Well then, I asked you. We got a shipment of lunchables coming in with the next Traveler.

[C]

Would you mind lifting the box out of the trunk? Yes, only if you do me a favor.

[D]

What's that?

[C]

Work on getting stronger.

[D]

Wow. The same joke you always tell. Bravo.

[C]

Gosh, I must have made fun of your arms at least. I don't know, seven times seven?

[D]

You're joking.

[C]

Eight.

[D]

Eight? Mac, you said.

[C]

Tandy, one of the gas pump hoses is leaking. Mind if I cut off your arm and hollow out your arm and use it as a replacement?

[D]

Mac.

[C]

Hey, Tandy, we're all out of toothpicks. You mind shoving your arm between this tooth and this one? Popcorn kernel. Stuck. Mac, Cash, have you seen my magnifying glass? I'm trying to find Tendi's arms, Mack. Well, traveler, sorry you died. Could be worse. You could have noodle arms like Tendi over here.

[D]

Mac.

[C]

Tendy, when you move your arms, do you think of it as a stick shift? Get it? Stick shift. Like your arms are sticks and they're moving. Mac, Cash, can you help me with some cooking instructions?

[B]

What is it, mechanic?

[C]

I'm trying to figure out if I should add the beef flavored seasoning packet before or after boiling Tendi's arms. Cause they're noodles, Mack. Hey, Tendi, I accidentally dropped a peanut into an ant den. Think you could reach down there and grab it? I don't want to risk damaging those little tunnels, Mac. Hey, Tindy. I heard you could start a fire with two small sticks, rub your arms together and let's see. Mack. Hey, Tindy, you think you could help me lift something? Yeah. Really? Why do you think that? Okay, okay, you've proved your point. Fine. I said nine things about your arms.

[D]

Those were the first nine. I could probably remember a thousand more.

[C]

Wow, you really hold on to shit. What does this story have to do with when you started thinking we could might be friends?

[D]

It was when.

[C]

Cash, you see Tendee anywhere? I need to see if he borrowed my tire gauge.

[B]

He's by the soda cooler, Mechanic.

[C]

All right. What in the hell are you doing? What does it look like I'm doing? It looks like you're trying to pick up a heavy Box.

[D]

Then that's what I'm doing. Why don't you go away?

[C]

Dude, you know I'll do this for you. You just gotta ask.

[D]

Yeah, well, maybe I'm tired of asking.

[C]

Why?

[D]

You know why. Ever since I got here, all you do is make jokes about my arms.

[C]

I get it.

[D]

I'm tall, I'm lanky, I'm not a bodybuilder, Mac. I know.

[C]

I don't care.

[D]

You don't? Seriously, Mac, I'm serious.

[C]

I don't care.

[D]

Then why do you make those jokes all the time?

[C]

They're funny.

[D]

Can you stop?

[C]

Nah, man, probably not. I don't think I have any control over it.

[D]

Look, I know you don't respect me. I know you never will. But stop making me feel weak.

[C]

Who said you were weak? You.

[D]

Over and over again.

[C]

Yeah, but that's a very specific voice form of weak. I mean, you got average strength. Okay, no big deal, it's fine. But by comparison, I'm some sort of God. Okay, but Tendi, you're strong in ways I'll never be.

[D]

What do you mean?

[C]

Well, for one thing, I've been giving you shit ever since you got here and not once have you ever talked about leaving.

[D]

Well, how do you know I'm not thinking about it?

[C]

We're both thinking about it. You've already been around so much longer than the old attendant.

[D]

Really? You've told me so many stories about him.

[C]

Yeah, I mean, I think he was probably here for like 90,000 travelers, which is a lot. Yeah, but not comparatively. You and I have been around so long, we've probably seen 400,000. That many? I'm just guessing. So you got staying power and, well, you're smarter than me. What? No, I'm not.

[D]

I'm not smarter than.

[C]

And that's the other thing. I don't care a whole lot if I make someone feel bad when they're being a jerk. But I've been being a jerk to you, haven't I?

[D]

Well, yeah, kind of.

[C]

And you still care if I feel like I'm dumb or not?

[D]

Yeah, I do. I don't want you to feel dumb. You're not dumb.

[C]

So look, man, truth is, I'm a little jealous. You're a lot younger than me. You're more self disciplined. You got one hell of a work ethic.

[D]

Thank you. The young part I'd kind of disagree with. I'd say we're both ancient now.

[C]

Hmm? Yeah, but I died with some wrinkles.

[D]

I like your crow's feet.

[C]

Thank you. I call Them smile lines.

[D]

But.

[C]

Let me help you with this box. What is it?

[D]

Squeez itself. New flavor, I think. Dude, did you try to cut my own handles into it so I could lift it easier?

[C]

That's actually pretty smart.

[D]

Thanks. Wow. Yeah. That's a good memory. That's the first time I realized that you weren't quite as hard a person as I first thought.

[C]

Yeah, I'm a big old softy tendy. Look at the box.

[D]

What?

[C]

No way.

[D]

Those.

[C]

Those are your handles.

[D]

Mac. What is this place? I don't know.

[C]

You want to leave?

[D]

No. No, I don't. When did things start changing for you?

[C]

Well, I think around the time of that talk. But that was more like coming to an understanding. At least for me.

[D]

Then what was it for you?

[C]

I gotta think about that.

[D]

We can walk a little longer this holiday.

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[B]

Specialoffer how long do we leave them in there?

[C]

I feel like we should probably go in after them.

[B]

I guess if we have to, we should give them a little more time. I'm sure they're fine. Maybe they're already out. Kash. Can you see anything? Maybe they're farther down either side of us. Let's see. Nothing that way. Hmm. There's always a chance they could have come out on the other side. Maybe we should go check it out. Just to make sure. Yeah, maybe. Wait.

[C]

What?

[B]

There's someone out there. Down that way.

[D]

A human.

[C]

Just wandering the desert.

[B]

A woman. She's walking straight towards the interstate. She's probably just trying to get to the forest sphere. Maybe her car's over there.

[C]

So she's just exploring?

[B]

Maybe. Yeah, but maybe not. She just walked in.

[C]

Should one of us check it out?

[B]

Let's see if she comes out the other side first. Like I said, she's probably just passing through. Give her a little bit. Are you sure? Why Are you acting so worried, Cash? I don't know. I think I just have this fear. Fear about what? That it's hard to put into words. What if something doesn't want us to find what we're looking for?

[C]

That's preposterous.

[B]

Is it?

[C]

Isn't it?

[B]

We can wait. But just a little while. Then I'm going in. I think that sounds good. Come on, let's go to the forest sphere. I can't wait to smell those pines.

[C]

Yeah, and then when I went to plug it back in, I forgot I hadn't put the lid back on.

[D]

I didn't know about that.

[C]

Yeah, I mean, I don't tell you everything that happens in the basement.

[D]

That's weird. Why not?

[C]

I'm just saying, sometimes you're so busy. Tendy, look there.

[D]

What's that?

[C]

I don't know, I'm too short. Grab it before it flies by. Got it. Well done, sir.

[D]

It's. It's an empty Whoppers bag.

[C]

That's it.

[D]

What, you don't remember Whoppers? I've had lots of Whoppers.

[C]

No, not that. Okay, let me set the scene. I'm in the store. Well, now, let's see what we got here.

[B]

It's been a while since we've gotten a new variety.

[C]

Yeah, it has, hasn't it? Ah, there it is.

[B]

What is it? What is it?

[C]

Cash, no offense, why would you care? You can't eat it.

[B]

That's mean.

[C]

Yeah, I guess so. Let's see. Okay. Rhea's cottage cheese and pineapple slices.

[B]

Do those things not sound good to you?

[C]

I mean, cottage cheese is just pretty divisive in general. I've heard travelers talk about it, but it's what it says under it.

[B]

What's it say?

[C]

Eat cold.

[D]

Bleh.

[C]

Eat cold. That's unnatural. I gotta show this to Tendi. Maybe something's broken with the afterlife or something. Where is he at?

[B]

He hasn't come back in since she left.

[C]

Huh. Should I check on him?

[B]

Probably, mechanic.

[C]

Okay, but first, did we ever get more Whoppers?

[B]

Yes, mechanic, they're on the shelf.

[C]

Ah, here you are. Got all of these things. Okay, I'm gonna go find Mr. Attendant. Dandy. Tandy? Where ya.

[D]

Over here, Mac.

[C]

What you doing sitting on the ground?

[D]

I, I.

[C]

Are you crying?

[D]

Um, yeah.

[C]

Why? We just got a new burrito.

[D]

Does that really happen? I thought maybe you were joking.

[B]

Really?

[C]

You've seen all the burritos we have in the store, right?

[D]

I thought that was just clever marketing.

[C]

It's clever, but I don't think it's for marketing purposes.

[D]

This. This place is so weird.

[C]

I've never seen you cry. I'm kind of freaking out, man.

[D]

I'm sorry.

[C]

Nah, don't be sorry, man. Tell me what's wrong.

[D]

That woman. Rhea. What about her? I couldn't stop her.

[C]

Yeah, that's how it is.

[D]

What could I have said differently? What could I have possibly done or told her that would have set her on the path to the next life? I failed. Don't you understand?

[C]

If I'm being honest, Tindi, I don't quite understand. I think on some subconscious level, maybe I'm kind of trying to steer people towards becoming burritos. Especially when they're mean.

[D]

She wasn't trying to be mean. She was upset. She felt like she'd abandoned people. It didn't matter how much I tried to comfort her. She wasn't gonna.

[C]

You really care about people?

[D]

Of course I do. You don't?

[C]

Oh yeah. I mean, I do, but I think I got a part of me that can, you know, turn it off. Otherwise this job would kind of drive me nuts.

[D]

How did the old attendant handle it?

[C]

That old dude didn't seem to care at all. We got so many burritos when he was in charge.

[D]

Was he mean?

[C]

Nah, he just. His mind was elsewhere a lot of the time. It's like he was just biding his time, waiting for something.

[D]

Waiting for what? Well, you.

[C]

I think, maybe. Look, I think it's fine to be upset about it. And now that I think about it, maybe you are right to be upset about it. Cause she was really worried, wasn't she? Oh, God, no. So this is why I don't like to think about this stuff, man. Cause if I think think about it too long, I start getting soft and.

[D]

Hey, hey. What's that in your hand? Are those Whoppers? What? Whoppers. The original malted milk balls. I love these things. Really?

[C]

I didn't know that. I never see you with them.

[D]

Yeah, that's. Cause once I start, I don't know how to stop that and.

[C]

And what?

[D]

Well, I know how much you like.

[C]

Them, so you leave them for me.

[D]

Yeah.

[C]

That's really cool, man. You, like, care about me or something?

[D]

Well, yeah, of course I do.

[C]

You want to share this bag with me?

[D]

Yes, I do.

[C]

And then we finished off the whole bag, remember?

[D]

Yeah, I do.

[C]

And then we had another and another.

[D]

And we finished off the whole box of them.

[C]

Tindy?

[D]

Yeah, Mac?

[C]

You didn't notice something?

[D]

What?

[C]

This isn't the interstate. We're in this memory. We're at the station.

[D]

Uh. Oh. That can't be good, right?

[C]

I don't know what happened.

[D]

Cash said this place was weird.

[C]

This is very weird. How do we get back?

[D]

I'm sure things will fix themselves, right? Maybe we should just hang out here.

[C]

I guess we have to.

[D]

Well, as long as we're stuck here. What? I'm gonna go get the whole box.

[C]

Humane.

[D]

We are going to gorge on Whoppers in the interstate.

[C]

The interstate? That sounds amazing.

[D]

I'll be right back. Now, where did we keep the Whoppers?

[C]

Wait.

[D]

Cash.

[C]

Darn.

[D]

I thought that would work. Oh, hi.

[C]

Hello.

[D]

Where did you come from?

[C]

We were already here. Where did you come from?

[D]

I think I better get back to my friend.

[C]

Stay.

[D]

But I can't. I.

[C]

You can go back to your friend when she's done with him.

[D]

Who?

[C]

Mother.

[D]

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

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Afflicted is a tale of hoodoo, a demonic book bound in human flesh and natural disasters that are anything but natural. Which grave did you get the dirt from?

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