Chapter 27 - The Inter State (Part 2)

Summary

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Desert Skies – Chapter 27: The Inter State (Part 2)

Podcast: Desert Skies
Host: Jared Carter
Release Date: December 15, 2025

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Episode Overview

This atmospheric and witty episode plunges deeper into the mysterious "Inter State," the liminal astral realm connecting life and the afterlife. Mac, Tendi (the Attendant), and Cash find themselves interacting with a peculiar group of supernatural kids, led by Cassandra Capernauva ("Mother"), as they wrestle with existential concepts of good, evil, punishment, and redemption. At the heart of the episode are questions of identity, atonement, and the consequences of being labeled "bad."

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. A Fractured Reunion: Mac, Tendi, and the Badass Kids

• Opening Scenario: The group is separated in the astral plane. Tendi tries to return to Mac but is intercepted by Apple, a seemingly intimidating, childlike entity.
• Apple and the "bad kids": Apple insists Tendi stay put until "Mother" (Cassandra) is finished talking to Mac. Humorous, awkward banter about candy (“Whoppers”) and bad language ensues.
  • ("I swear." – Apple at 05:10)
  • ("Abso shitly lutely." – Apple at 05:17)

2. Cassandra’s Philosophy – Are We All ‘Bad’?

• Mac confronts Cassandra: Mac is wary—she previously lied and manipulated.
• Cassandra claims that both she and Mac are "bad," but in a way that denotes non-conformity, alienation, and authenticity, rather than outright evil. She uses the story of "Lambert the Sheepish Lion" (07:33–08:27) as a metaphor for Mac's true nature.
  • "You're a lion, Mac. I've seen it... you're a lion, but you think you're a sheep." – Cassandra (08:29–08:36)
• Cassandra explains that being "bad" is about embracing one's inherent flaws; denial only causes suffering and disconnection.
  • “When we pretend we're not bad, something inside us is always telling us different.” – Cassandra (08:50)

3. The Seed of Doubt—and Recruitment

• Cassandra reveals she 'planted a seed' in Mac, meant to sprout doubt and self-examination.
• She invites Mac to join “the interstate”—a state of suffering and service, under an enigmatic leader who values “badness” as truth.
  • “All you have to do is accept that you’re bad. Really bad. And you can join us.” – Cassandra (22:29)

4. The Nature of the ‘Inter State’

• Detailed metaphysics: The interstate binds realities—physical and astral—allowing certain “finders” to extract, interact with, and even traverse between existential planes (16:36–21:28).
  • "The interstate is like the glue that binds realities together... a soup both orderly and disorderly." – Cassandra (16:36)
• Cassandra describes herself as a "Level Six Finder", relishing her increasing power and mastery. The more facts a finder understands, the more they can interact with or alter reality (20:10–21:28).

5. Astral Consequences – Aging and Suffering

• Cash and Nani (another friend) experience physical changes (aging, losing eyelashes, chipped nails do not heal instantly), suggesting that time moves differently and the astral plane is not free from consequence.
  • "Are you saying the reason you’re surprised about your eyelash is... people don’t lose eyelashes here? Not unintentionally. Nonnie, I think you’re aging." – Mac & Cash (18:11–18:30)

6. Cassandra’s Backstory—and the Badass Kids of Corsicana

• Big reveal: Cassandra and her followers are the spirits of troubled children who died together in a gas explosion at a disciplinary school ("the Corsicana Opry incident").
• Their “badness” comes from trauma, rebellion, and society’s labels.
  • "We were trouble. Rabble rousers, ne'er do goods. They tried to punish it out of us, but good God, they lost. Didn’t they, boys?" – Cassandra (33:55)
  • "I sold pot to third graders." – Cassandra (34:57)

7. Metaphysical Temptation: The Proposal for Mac

• Cassandra claims her leader can help Mac and his friends return to the physical plane—at a price: acceptance of Mac's “bad” self.
  • "He can help you to step out of place. He can help you to step out of time." – Cassandra (22:58–23:05)
• Mac is tormented by visions of past wrongdoing, but questions if true change is possible.
  • "Maybe I was [bad]. But this… it was so long ago. I’m different." – Mac (30:11)
  • "Oh, people don't change, Mac. Not really." – Cassandra (30:18)

8. Ending: Reunited, Unnerved

• The group is reunited. Cash exposes the "kids" as actual children, warped by the interstate; Cassandra bristles at being dismissed as “just children.”
• The kids’ backstories are revealed, blending elements of tragedy and dark humor (including their rebellious acts and resulting punishments).
• The protagonists escape, but the temptation and philosophical tension lingers.

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Timestamps for Memorable Segments

• 03:02 – Tendi (Jared Carter) meets Apple and is detained.
• 06:44–08:36 – Cassandra’s lion/sheep parable & comparison to Mac.
• 09:41–10:54 – Philosophical debate: Can others know us? What does it mean to be “bad”?
• 13:24 & 17:04 – Banter about aging and the astral plane’s rules.
• 16:36–21:28 – Cassandra explains finding, "facts," and the mechanics of the interstate.
• 22:10–22:58 – The leader's ultimate goal: traversing planes and time.
• 29:42–31:51 – Cassandra shows Mac a vision of his past, challenging his sense of change and identity.
• 33:16–36:23 – The origin of the badass kids of Corsicana.
• 36:27–37:20 – Comic “bear” puns as the group escapes to safer ground, echoing the uncertainty and camaraderie.

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Notable Quotes

• Cassandra:
  • “You're a lion, Mac. I've seen it... you're a lion, but you think you're a sheep.” (08:29)
  • “When we pretend we're not bad, something inside us is always telling us different.” (08:50)
  • “True freedom is found in knowing just how awful you are. True healing is found in punishment.” (30:52)
• Apple (Badass Kid):
  • “Abso shitly lutely.” (05:17)
  • “Mother says the man is damn bad. Like us.” (05:00)
• Mac:
  • “Maybe I was [bad]. But this… it was so long ago. I’m different.” (30:11)
• Cash:
  • “They're kids, Mac. Just kids. Some weird little cult of normal kids who've been led to believe they're nothing but bad. They're just children.” (32:45)
• Cassandra:
  • “We were trouble. Rabble rousers, ne'er do goods. They tried to punish it out of us, but good God, they lost. Didn't they, boys?” (33:55)

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Tone & Style

The episode blends dark humor, surreal metaphysics, and poignant existentialism. Cassandra’s dialogue is both seductive and faintly menacing, while Apple’s malapropisms and Tendi’s comic banter provide levity. The emotional core concerns shame, identity, and the possibility of redemption, rendered through a prism of cosmic whimsy.

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Conclusion

Chapter 27 of Desert Skies teases out the tensions between self-perception, shame, and the lure of belonging—even at the cost of one's soul. The episode offers answers, but even deeper mysteries emerge about the true nature and motives of “Mother,” the interstate, and the collector they serve. Mac and his friends are left wondering if escape from their pasts—or from the astral temptations of this liminal world—is possible.

To hear the promise and peril of the interstate, and discover whether these lost children can find peace, keep listening.

Transcript

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[State Farm Advertiser]

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[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

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[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Hi friends, Jared here. Thanks for your patience while waiting for this newest chapter. Before we begin, I just want to take a moment to give a shout out to the newest members of Club 86. They are Victoria Murray, Ignace the Pup, Kennybaby84 Shayla Villegas, Tamara Taylor, Sarah Tarbox, Bella Harris Cassidy Lilly Kaden Souda Big Big Sky Concept Tara Boone, Nastasia Gress, Harlan Behrman, Keith Dorfield, Angelina Nakarado, Connie L, Katy Burke, Nicole Chan, Dylan Rose, Michelle Ramos, Cindy Lou, Jennifer Pryor, Seth Kesh, the Goblin, Firah Alt Gray Silver Camilo Orozco, Cecil Becca Bullock, Coy Carroll, Tom Tyler Morgan, Courtney Ellis, Ms. D Love Novelty Nick Lori Clausen, Pete Speedy TY11 y' all are amazing and I so greatly appreciate your support. Club 86 is not only a great way to support the show, but depending on the tier you can get anything from stickers, T shirts, mugs, sweaters, exclusive mini seasons, commentaries, early releases as available and and ad free episodes. And it's the holidays, so if you know someone who loves desert skies, a great way to show some love is by gifting a subscription. It's nice there's no wrapping involved. I am terrible at wrapping gifts. So whether for yourself or someone you love, visit patreon.com desertskies or click the link in the Show Notes to join onto the show.

[Mac (Main Character)]

For the best listening experience, headphones are recommended.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Now, where did we keep the Whoppers? Wait. Cash? Darn, I thought that would work. Oh, hi.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Hello.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Where did you come from?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

We were already here. Where did you come from?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

I think I better get back to my friend.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Stay.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

But I can't, I.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

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

[Mac (Main Character)]

Who?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Mother.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Hi there, Mac.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What in the hell? What are you doing here?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I just want to talk.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I thought I made it clear that I'm not interested in whatever it is you have to say.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I think you misread my intentions, Mac.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I think you made your intentions more than clear. You want to tear me and my friends apart, convince me they don't love me. I don't know what kind of sick person does that.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

But I'm not a sick person, Mac.

[Mac (Main Character)]

And you lied to me, didn't you?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

About what?

[Mac (Main Character)]

About being the attendant of the rest area.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Oh, that. Yes, that was a lie.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Where's Tandy? He should have been back by now.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

He's fine, Mac. He's with a friend.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Listen, big guy, I don't want any trouble.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

No trouble. You stay.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

I can't. I told my friend I was gonna bring him some Whoppers.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Whopp?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Yeah, these here, see? Whoppers?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

What are Whoppers?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

They're candy.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Would you share with me?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Um, yeah. Hold out your hand. Go ahead and try them.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Good, good. Very good. More?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

If I give you more, will you let me go?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Mother says keep you inside.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Why?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

So she can talk with the bad man.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Bad man?

[Mac (Main Character)]

You mean Mac?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Mac's not a bad man.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Mother says the man is damn bad. Like us.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

You don't seem bad.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

I am bad.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

What makes you bad?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

I swear.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

You swear?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Yes, I damn do.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Dam do.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Abso shitly lutely.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Wow, you are bad. But just bad at swearing.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Yes, I am bad at everything.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

There's a lot to unpack here. Let's start with what's your name?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

I am Apple.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Hi Apple. My name is Tendi. Here, have some more Whoppers. Mind if I ask you some questions?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Like hell I do.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

I'm sorry, is that a yes or a no?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Yes. Hell the yes.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Hey, sock it to me.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

There's more of you.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

This is Little Boy. Little Boy, this is Tendy.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Alright guys, let's talk.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Would you just give me a moment to explain?

[Mac (Main Character)]

You don't need to explain. I already know. It's simple. Lady, there's something wrong with you.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

That's true, Mac. Something is wrong with me and something's wrong with you. We're the same.

[Mac (Main Character)]

We're not the same. I'm getting my friend and we're getting out of here.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I planted a seed, Mac. I planted a seed in your mind.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What do you mean?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I didn't mean to come across so harsh, but that's the way seeds have to be planted. You gotta stir up the soil a little bit if you want it to take root.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Quit talking in riddles and explain what you mean.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You're bad.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Mac, we've covered this.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

But I don't mean it the way you think I mean it.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Oh, really? Do explain.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

When I was just a little girl, my parents took me to see Lambert the Sheepish Lion. It was one of those Disney cartoons. You ever heard of it?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Nope. What does this have to do with anything?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I'll keep this short. So a stork delivers a lion to the wrong place. He ends up getting raised by sheep.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Great story.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I'm gonna go now.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

They make fun of him, Mac. He's different. He doesn't belong. He's not like them. He kind of knows it, but he thinks he's a sheep. And then one day, a wolf comes. And Lambert scares the wolf off and then headbutts him off a ledge. That story got stuck in my head, Mac. I never liked cartoons that much, but that one was pretty.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Boss, the point, please.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You're a lion, Mack. I've seen it.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Seen it how?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

In the interstate.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What do you mean?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You're a lion, but you think you're a sheep. You're always looking for a fight, aren't you?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Well, kinda, yeah.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

And you make fun of your friend quite a bit.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Yeah, I do.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You're just bad. You're just a bad man hanging out with some little goody two shoes. Mac, when we pretend we're not bad, something inside us is always telling us different. When we act like we're good all the time, we get all out of whack, things feel all grody. We're not in our lane. Tell me you don't feel it.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I feel it, I think. I don't know. I know I felt it when I got here. But I've tried to change.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

And where did it get you? You acted like a sheep and let them lead you from your home. Your robot friend. She's already forgotten how much you grieved her while she was gone.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I love my friends.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I know you do.

[Mac (Main Character)]

And they love me.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Maybe. But you know what they say, Mac. You can't love what you don't know. They don't know you. But we do. And we love you. And he wants to love you.

[Mac (Main Character)]

He? He who?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

He thinks you're groovy. Just absolutely groovy. He wants you to join us.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What are you talking about?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Not yet, Mac. He's not quite ready to reveal himself to you. But let me tell you about him, okay? He wants to love you, Mac. But there's a condition. You have to acknowledge how bad you are. He can't love you till you do. He can't love you till you know that there's nothing good about you. But then when you confess it, he's gonna think you're the bee's knees.

[Mac (Main Character)]

So that's it? I tell you I'm bad.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Totally.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Even though. Even though I know I'm not. Not like that. Sure, I got some bad in me. Maybe even some really bad things in me. I don't know. But I'm not all bad like Tendi says. Nobody is all bad or all good. We all got a little bit of both. Just different amounts in all of us.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

And it's because you believe that lie. That's why he sent me to plant the seed. That seed is gonna sprout, Mac. It's gonna grow in your mind and your soul. I know it. Just like it grew in all of us. Then you can join us.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Us?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Join us, Mac, in the interstate.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Interstate?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Join us in our suffering.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Let me tell you my story. Maybe then you'll understand.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I'm gonna make sure Tendi's okay, and then I'll listen to your story.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Go ahead, Mac. Take a look through the window.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What in the hell are those?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You mean, who in the hell are those? The big one is Apple. He's not as scary as he looks. And the wrinkly small one, that's Little Boy. They're both very kind.

[Mac (Main Character)]

They're bad.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Of course they are, Mack.

[Mac (Main Character)]

So how can you say that they're kind?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Just because they're bad on the inside doesn't mean they can't be good on the outside. You should know that a pirate can be polite, a trickster can treat, a sociopath, can be so. So sincere. Even a bad clock is right twice a day.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Never seen a clock, but I'll take your word for it. Well, Tendi looks like he's having an okay time.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Come sit with me, Mac. I brought chairs.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Those weren't here before. How did you do that?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I'll tell you all about it.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

That's it? They haven't emerged. And neither has the woman I saw. I'm going in. Then I'm going with you.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I'm sure they're fine. But I understand your concern. Should I go with you?

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

We'll be fine, Corson. This frame may not be fit for a soldier, but it still has plenty of Fight in it. Why don't you head to the Long Pause and call the station? The sooner we can get those new tires, the sooner we'll be able to be on our way.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Can do. Meet me there when you've secured the attendance.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

I hate going in there. Come on, Cash, it's not that bad. What do you hate about it? I've always had a difficult time with things I can't explain. Then you must hate the astral plane. No, this is different. This feels like something that shouldn't be messed with. Like it's sacred, powerful. Not a place for mere mortals. Then it's good that we're not. Not what? Mere mortals. You said it yourself, Cash. We're different. Yeah, I guess we are. Different is as different does. Come on. Let's go in and find MacIntendy. Okay.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

So how'd you guys get your names?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Mother gave them to us.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

And why do you call her Mother? Is she your actual mother?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

She is Mother.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

What about you, little boy? Got any more context to add?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You unlock this door with the key of imagination?

[Mac (Main Character)]

What?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Twilight Zone.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

I'll repeat the question. What?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

When I arrived here on the astral plane, I was the first of many. A group of us died at the same time. An incident at the Corsicana Opry. Ever heard of it?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Can't say as I have.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

There was a gas leak in the basement. I smelled it first, went to check it out. Probably a bad idea. You smell gas, you should probably go the other way.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I'll try to remember that.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You probably don't have to worry about it.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Hm.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Touche.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Well, as I said, I got here and the first thing I did was visit that cave, or mine or whatever. It was underground. And I waited for my friends there.

[Mac (Main Character)]

The ones that died with you?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Yeah, them. I had to wait a long time. Can I ask you something?

[Mac (Main Character)]

What?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Why is it that people who die at the same time don't arrive at the same time? I must have waited ages for my friends. But we couldn't have died more than seconds apart. Milliseconds.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Well, I used to wonder the same thing. But now that Cash is back, I finally understand. Oh, yeah. Time's slower here. Like, a lot slower. Seconds apart on the physical plane count for a lot more here.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

That's pretty far out.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Indeed.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Well, anyways, I waited until they were all here. And we made the journey together. All the way to the 33rd sphere. That's where we met him.

[Mac (Main Character)]

The Prime Mover?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

No, we never saw him. Someone else. Someone amazing. He was the one to plant the idea in our minds. The same one I planted in yours. The seed that blossomed into an understanding of ourselves. He taught us that we were bad, but he didn't shame us for it. He convinced us of the truth. It truly set us free. Our suffering is the price we pay for freedom.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What suffering are you talking about? I'm so confused.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

The interstate.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What is it?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

It's our recompense. Our way of saying thanks for showing us the way. What is the interstate? I know what you're really asking, and I can't really tell you. Not the whole truth about it, because he hasn't told us.

[Mac (Main Character)]

How do I know you're telling me the truth?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Because of this.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What are you doing?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Wrap your pinky around mine.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Why?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Just do it.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Okay. Nothing's happening.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I pinky promise.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I pinky promotion promise. A pinky promise is the only way you know a bad person is telling the truth.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I disagree with that whole premise. The potential for it to lead to even greater depths of deception is.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Here's what I know. The interstate is like the glue that binds realities together. In here, the physical and the astral coexist. They overlap and they dance, and they move in and out of each other's spaces. It's a soup both orderly and disorderly.

[Mac (Main Character)]

You sound so smart.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I'm just repeating what he said a million times.

[Mac (Main Character)]

But how is this suffering?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Because.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Whoa. Wait a second.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Cash, look.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

What is it? Is that. It's one of my eyelashes. Why is that a big deal? I don't know, but it feels significant. I've never lost an eyelash before. Not here. Really? No, the entire time I can remember. Which, granted, isn't that long, but still kind of long. I've never lost an eyelash. What do you think it means? I told you this place is weird. Do something for me. What? Bite off a fingernail. But I just painted my nails. With what? Some ketchup I let dry on them. Please try. For me. I have a theory. Okay, fine. Mac better have brought more ketchup. Now, wait. What are we waiting for? One time, Mac was biting his fingernails a lot.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Ew.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

I asked what he was doing, and he showed me. He would bite off a fingernail and it would grow right back because. Because not only is it impossible to die on the astral plane, people heal very quickly here, Ann. And they don't age. Are you saying the reason you're surprised about your eyelash is. People don't lose eyelashes here? Not unintentionally. Nonnie, I think you're aging no stinkin way. Really? I can't say for certain, but look at your nail. It's the same. Still bitten off. And I guarantee it'll grow right back the moment we leave here. So I'm getting older? My body is acting like it did on the physical plane? I think so. You know what this means? What? If I hang out here long enough, I can finally get gray hair. I have always wanted peppered hair. Cash, even at the expense of losing what's left of your youth. Youth is overrated. I want to look wise, but still dress young and talk young. Young at heart. Wise in hair. I love you. I love you too, sweetie. Come on, let's find the boys.

[Mac (Main Character)]

You're aging.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Yeah, but it's the price we pay. The price for being bad.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I'm sorry, that just kind of sounds sadistic on the part of this dude you keep saying is so awesome. He just makes you sit in here and get old.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

No, we don't just sit. We have a job to do. We seek and we find.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Find what?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Wrinkles?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

No, Mac, not wrinkles. Facts.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Facts.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Our leader. He's a collector. A gatherer of information from all planes of existence. He's the one that figured out that the Interstate binds realities together. Connects the spheres. Connects the planes. Next time.

[Mac (Main Character)]

But how do you figure it out? What makes him so special?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

A curiosity that knows no bounds. And now we serve him. We seek, we find.

[Mac (Main Character)]

So you're a seeker.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Oh, no, Mac. I'm a level six finder. I'm getting stronger all the time. You see, a regular person, they enter the interstate. And maybe they'll pick up a whiff of some random scent. Or feel a familiar feeling, like the wind or a ray of sunshine. But there's so much more here. If you know how to find it.

[Mac (Main Character)]

And he knows how to find it.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

He's the best at it.

[Mac (Main Character)]

So does that have something to do with the Station being here?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Very good. A finder can do things in the Interstate that others can't. The stronger the understanding of a fact, the greater the ability to interact with it. The Station's existence is a fact. And we understand it because we've studied it. We know all facts about it. Things on the astral plane are easy to understand because we've seen them with our own eyes. Now I can interact with the fact. The fact that is the Station.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Is it really here?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

It is. And it isn't. It's more like an interactive model.

[Mac (Main Character)]

It's just an image.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

More like a reflection. One you can touch. One in this case. It's not even of this time. I pulled an old fact. Like the squeeze its box that Apple left in your way. Or the Whopper's bag that I pulled in. We need to do some updates in.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Our understanding of the station, though.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What's the point in collecting all of these facts? So you can play with them? With images of them?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

No. Interacting with facts is fun, but that's not what he's after. He believes that if one is able to collect enough facts, they could traverse the fabric that binds realities.

[Mac (Main Character)]

You mean like go to the physical plane?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Go to the physical plane. Go to the next life. And not only that, but at any point in time, completely unbound by the laws that govern the soul.

[Mac (Main Character)]

So a human could go back to the physical plane?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Now you're getting it.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Why me?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I don't know, Max. But you're very special to him. He wants you. All you have to do is accept that you're bad. Really bad. And you can join us. You see, Mac, I'm not just a finder, I'm a recruiter. And I'm good at my job. You told me you and your friends are trying to make your way back to the physical plane. Live your life again.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Yeah.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

He can help you. He can help you to step out of place. He can help you to step out of time.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I can't go back without my friends.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You wouldn't have to. If you learn this power, if you let him teach you, you can master the interstate. You can teach your friends.

[Mac (Main Character)]

You lied to me once. How do I know you're not lying to me again?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Do you want to him? See, I can show you.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Show me what?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Take my hand, Mac.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Why?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

You're not strong enough to see it on your own. Trust me.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Fine. Why is your hand so cold?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Oh, that's just a side effect of prolonged exposure to the interstate. It's okay. Our suffering is the price we pay for his power. When he shines, we all shine. You ready to learn?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Learn what?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Just how bad you are.

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[Arian Samadry (Percy Jackson Podcast Host)]

Jason Disney asked me to do this podcast thing. I need some advice.

[Mac (Main Character)]

You've got to have.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Banger gets Walker and Leah.

[Arian Samadry (Percy Jackson Podcast Host)]

Daniel Deamer, Kim Simons, Adam Coveland.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

You're the one asking the Questions how?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Why are they better?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

And answer.

[Depop Advertiser]

I don't know anything epic.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

This season is just make a quest.

[Arian Samadry (Percy Jackson Podcast Host)]

I'm Arian Samadry. Welcome to the Percy Jackson and the Olympians official podcast. Available wherever you get your podcasts. And watch season two of Percy Jackson streaming now on Disney plus and Hulu. Learn [e-mail] what's on?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Okay, you see the salt shaker?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Damn is right.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Watch closely. I place the napkin over the top of it. You see the shape of the shaker underneath the napkin?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Sure do.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

I move the shaker around in a circle on the table. Round and round. And then. Is the shaker still there?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

I can see the shape of the shaker. Where did the shaker go? Where did the shaker go?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Now that's a well kept secret. Out. My friend Mack would be so mad if I showed you. But I suppose if you were to let me go outside to check on him, I could get permission to show you how to do this trick. And the other three I already showed you.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

No attendant cannot go outside.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Please, no more attendant. Like I said, call me Tendi. I'm sure mother wouldn't mind if I.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Tendi cannot go outside. Tendi cannot not go outside. Tendi cannot go.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Okay, okay, okay there, big guy. I can take a hint. You want to see another magic trick?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Hell for sure.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Okay, hell for sure.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

How did it get here? Your guess is as good as mine.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Bonnie. Cash.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Tendi, are you alright? Whoa. Tendi, who are your friends?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Oh, this is Apple and his friends.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Friend?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Little boy. They're holding me captive.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Why?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

And that's the way it is.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

The way what is? Ruh.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Oh.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

What?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Nani, there's no point. How's Mac? They won't let me outside to see him.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

We haven't seen Mac.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

He should be right outside with mother.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Mother.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Mother.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

He's not there.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

He's okay. He's with mother. Mother will take care of him.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Gosh, maybe I shouldn't have encouraged Mack and Tendi to walk around the inter state. You think? Don't get sassy with me. Come on, Tendi, let's go find Mack.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

No, you all stay. Let mother finish with him.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Hey, big guy.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

I will fight you like damn you will.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Okay, maybe not me. Cash, sweetie, take him.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Wait, wait, wait. We don't need to fight. I'm sure things will turn out just fine. Right Apple?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Right, Tendy? It will be okay. Just wait here. Your friend will come back.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Good.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Well, if we're stuck here, why do they call you Apple? Sounds like A kid's nickname. You're not a kid.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Well, funny story, actually.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Where exactly are we?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

We're still in the inter state.

[Mac (Main Character)]

I can't make things out. Are those people? This looks like a city. Why is it so blurry?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Well, like I said, I'm a level six finder. Which means I can see different times in different places. But not clearly when it comes to the physical plane. If I focus in, things become a little clearer. Look here.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Where?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

There.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Is that a. What is it?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

It's a postal collection box. I'm going to focus on it. Look.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Oh, yeah, I can see that. Kinda.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Like I said, I'm level six. Can't quite make out letters yet. Or particularities of faces. I can kind of hear voices. There. See that person talking?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Yeah, I can kind of see a person.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I'm gonna focus on them. Listen.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What's she saying?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I have no idea.

[Mac (Main Character)]

So what are we doing here?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

There. Down that way. There's a factory near the pier.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Pier? Like, are we near the ocean?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Yeah, Mac, we are. Sort of. Come on. To the factory. Hold tight.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Whoa. That was freaky. How long did it take you to get where you could navigate the interstate like this?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Are you ever gonna stop pronouncing interstate?

[Mac (Main Character)]

No.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

It took me a long time, a very long time, to learn to navigate it like this.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Well, we're wherever we're supposed to be.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Yes, but not whenever we're supposed to be.

[Mac (Main Character)]

How do you know?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Because there's still people here. We need to go to the moment in history when the people left.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Who are all these people? There's so many. Why are they just standing around?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I don't know for certain, but I know who that is up there on the scaffolding.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Who is it?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Listen.

[Mac (Main Character)]

That's me. That's me on the physical plane. What in the world is this place? What am I saying? Why are there so many people? Why are they making that sound? Are they upset?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Oh, I believe so.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Because of something I said.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Do you believe me now, Mac?

[Mac (Main Character)]

That you know how to go about the interstate?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

That you're a bad person?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Maybe I was. But this. Whatever it is, it was so long ago. I'm different.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Oh, people don't change, Mac. Not really. This isn't just who you were. This is who you are. The robot girl. The one you said went back to the physical plane. She knows it.

[Mac (Main Character)]

She. She told me I was a sweet man when I was alive.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Maybe she just didn't want to hurt your feelings.

[Mac (Main Character)]

She said that someone tried to beat it out of me. But they lost.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Look around, Mac. Does it sound like they lost?

[Mac (Main Character)]

How did you find this place?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

He told me where to look. It took me a while, but here it is. Mac, I can't make you join us, but I'm just asking you to consider. True freedom is found in knowing just how awful you are. True healing is found in punishment. You could be so much happier. That's what we want for you. That's what he wants for you and Mac.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

That's the only way to help your friends.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Ah, God, I'm so confused. I need to think about this.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

That's okay, Mac. Take all the time you need. That seed is sprouted. I can see it. We just have to wait a little while and you'll be ready. And then I can introduce you to. Come on, let's go back to the station. Come inside. I want you to meet some of my friends.

[Mac (Main Character)]

Okay.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Well, well, well.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Look who's back.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Who the hell are you and what are you doing with our friend?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Mother?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Apple, Little boy? Did you have a good time with the attendant?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

His name is Tendy, Mother. He is good, but he is still my damn friend.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Yabba dabba doo. Really, little boy? Wow, Attendant, you've made quite the impression. Magic tricks.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Answer my question. What were you doing with our friend?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Oh, simply trying to help him.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Mother just wants to help the short attendant.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Oh, she's no mother.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What are you talking about?

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

You want to tell him, or should I?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Be my guest. We have nothing to hide, do we, boys?

[Mac (Main Character)]

What are you talking about, Nani?

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

They're kids, Mac. Just kids. Some weird little cult of normal kids who've been led to believe they're nothing but bad. They're just children.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Just children?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Is she being serious? Why do you call yourself Mother?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Just children.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Everybody calm down.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

If you think we're just children, you've got another thing coming to you. Buck bok bacaque buck bock baconk.

[Mac (Main Character)]

What in the hell's going on?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I'll tell you what's going on. Bakok B, A K, O, C. You've just met the badass kids of Corsicana. Time to tell you who we are.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

It's like a show. You're the badass kid.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

This is no laughing matter. We're the badass kids of Corsicana.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Buck buck baca.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Once upon a time, there was a group of badass, troubled youth sent away from our parents to a little kiddie prison camp by the name of the East Texas Disciplinary School for Kids of Ill Repute.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Ill repute?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

We were trouble. Rabble rousers ne' er do goods. They tried to punish it out of us, but good God, they lost. Didn't they, boys?

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Probably, yes.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Suck it to me.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Apple. Formerly Dickie March, 7 years old. No matter how hard his mom and dad tried, he just wouldn't stop cussing.

[Apple (Badass Kid)]

Damn.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

You are right, Little boy.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Formerly Little Tommy Buttons, 5 years old. Wouldn't stop watching TV. If his parents unplugged it, he'd plug it right back in. If they hid it, he'd find it when they sold it. He just snuck over at night and watched the neighbor's TV through their windows. Now he only speaks tv. And that's the way it is. And me mother? Once upon a time, a 12 year old girl by the name of Cassandra Capernauva. Winner of the Corsicana spelling bee three years in a row. Student of the month every month. IQ of 140.

[Mac (Main Character)]

You don't sound like a bad kid.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Oh, forgot to mention. I sold pot to third graders.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

What?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

I was in need of attention. One day we went on a little field trip. All 13 of us, the Corsicana. Up. When our counselors weren't looking. We slipped into the basement, found a gun, shot a gas line. End of story.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Why was there a gun in the basement?

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Texas. Need I say more?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Yeah, probably.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Anyways, it wasn't really the end of the story. It was just the beginning. Me and my friends found our home in the interstate.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

And it ages you.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Worse than that, it deforms some of us. As you can see. It affects the younger ones the most. But no matter. It's the price we pay. Bok bok, bacaque, Bock bock, Pecock, bac, bach Peka.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

I get it now. Get what? They're the bad ass kids of Corsicana. They're little nicknames. Nicknames? Bad Apple. Bad little Boy. Which. Which means you must be bad motherfu. Nuh, nuh. No. You're 12.

[Cassandra Capernauva (Cassandra)]

Whatever. We're out of here anyways. Mac, keep thinking about what I said. We'd love to have you brothers. Let's go.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

What's she talking about?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Mac, do we have to talk about it right now?

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Yeah, Mack, I think we do.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

But not here. It's not safe. Doesn't matter if they're kids. We need to get as far away as we can from the bcocks. Agreed. Let's get to the Long Pause. After all this craziness, I'm unbearably thirsty.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Clever.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

I can't bear to go another minute without going to the Long Pause.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Yep, got it. Nani.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Maybe we can find a bear tender there.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Mac already made that joke.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Wait, really?

[Mac (Main Character)]

Forever ago.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Fine, I'll come up with another one. Just bear with me for a moment.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

You want a beer, Nani?

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

No, Tendi. I want fur beers.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

Fur beers.

[Cash (Friend of Mac)]

Like four? Like four beer. Whatever. Let's go.

[Jared Carter (Narrator/Host)]

This episode this episode was written, produced and performed by me, Jared Carter. The show is executive produced by the badass kid, Michael Freiberg. Until next time, safe Travels.

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