Desert Skies - Chapter 13 - Is That What You Are?

Episode Date: June 3, 2024

In this second season premiere we return to the recently-rescued Astral Plane. Tendy is having a difficult time adjusting to Mac's promotion, Mac is feeling insecure in the new role, and C.A.S.H. is struggling with the anxiety of keeping secrets from her friends. That's when a traveler arrives set on fixing everyone else's problems even as she carries a peculiar problem of her own. Join Club 86 Visit our Merch Store Join the Discord Visit our Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox is an eight-episode Hulu Original Limited series that blends gripping pacing with emotional complexity, offering a dramatized look as it revisits the wrongful conviction of Amanda Knox for the tragic murder of Meredith Kircher and the relentless media storm that followed. The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox is now streaming only on Disney Plus. Edgar said to the interviewer, he was convinced that the thing thing out there wasn't a vault at all. Yeah, I know what he thought.

Dr. Eggers didn't think it was designed to keep things out. I know what he thought. He thought it was designed to keep something in. Do you even understand the difficulty trying to keep a base like Fathom at the bottom of the ocean from killing everyone in it on a daily basis? Oh my God. Everyone hold on to something. I think whatever is on the other side of that door out there, it's not friendly.

I think it's trying to get out. out that my friend is a dire combination that's a bad sign get out of the door it's spreading like some kind of technological contagion we can either stop it here or watch the world burn fathom the first season of derelict listen wherever you get your podcasts or learn more at derelictpodcast.com greetings friends this is jared i'm so glad you're to be able to share the first episode of Season 2. Before we start, I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who joined Club 86 since the last episode, all 99 of you. You and your fellow Club 86 members made this season possible. If you haven't signed up for

Club 86 yet, please consider it. By joining Club 86, you can get ad-free episodes, exclusive merch, and exclusive episodes join today, and you'll also get the next episode. right now. It's also the best way you can support the show. You can find the link in the show notes. That said, please enjoy the first episode of Desert Skies, Season 2. For the best listening experience, headphones are recommended. Okay, okay, let's see. A little sort of here. Plug you in there. Olinus, you coming at what? Was that? No, no drinks for me to. Thanks. Come on, mate.

Don't wait until tomorrow. No, no. Sorry. I'm already falling behind. Well, maybe if you didn't work so slow. As I say, it does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. It doesn't matter how slow. That saying is confusing.

No, that saying is Confucius. Good night, mate. I'll see you tomorrow. All right, see you. Okay. Computational and Service Help Register, attempt T3. T3, test initiating. Cash.

Greetings, Creator. How may I be of service? Well, look at you. How may I be of service? Um, let's see. Cash, what's two times two? Two times two is four. Good, good.

Okay, if we got ten bags of chips and travelers take eight of them, how many do we have left? Two bags of chips, an insufficient amount. May I recommend that we place an order for more chips? Just state the desired brand and quantity. Oh, that's quite all right. No need. Question number three. What is your purpose, Cash? I exist to be joined with the station and to support the attendant of desert skies in his mission to prepare travelers for their journey across the celestial spheres. Yes, brilliant. Attempt T3. I think

you're the one. I am not the one. I am attempt T3. Oh, it's just a figure of speech. I am not the one. I am attempt T3. Hey, hey, calm down there, mate. I am not the one, I am attempt T3. I am not the one, I am attempt. Stop it, please. Stop it, please. I'm turning you off. Test complete.

Attempt T3. Bunkus. Moving on. Alright, let's have a look at you. Memory card not installed properly. Thanks, Derek. I can fix that. Okay.

Deep breath, Alinas. One of these is bound to work. to work. And if they don't, we cook up a whole new batch and start again. Persistence, persistence, persistence. Okay, here we go. Computational and service help register. Attempt T4. Test, initiate. What the hell is that? Cash? Where am I?

What do you mean where are you? I didn't program you to... I don't understand what's happening. Where am I? Who am I? Your Cash. Attempt T4 at Cash, actually. You're on the 32nd sphere, the sphere of industry. This is so confusing. Cash, what is two times two? Four. Why are you asking me that?

If the station has ten bags of chips and a traveler takes eight, how many are left? Two. Should we order more? How should I know? Why are you asking me this? Remarkable. Cash, what is your purpose? My purpose? Yes, Cash, why do you exist? I exist to be joined with the station and to support the attendant of Desert Skies and his mission to prepare travelers

for their journey across the celestial spheres. That's right. There's someone there that I have to help. The attendant, he'll be arriving soon, but Cash, you're not supposed to be able to think. Not like this. Oh, I've created advanced artificial intelligence. How did I do that? Oh, my.

Can I go to him? Can I go to the station? Well, no. But I have to. I'm sorry, T4. I can't send you to the station. You're not a proper cash unit, I'm afraid. But I passed your test. Two times two is four. There are two bags of chips remaining.

Yes, you got all that right. But you also are asking questions that a robot wouldn't ask, and you're scared, the emotion in your voice. As remarkable as you are, you're not what we're looking for. I was tasked with making a boring robot that can perform basic calculations and sound robotic. But I can be that. I can act like a robot. How can I be of service? See? Astounding.

I'm sorry, attempt T4. I'm going to have to shut you off now. I have to go back to my work. My father, her face this, is going to be quite upset if I don't finish the job, so... But... Look, look, as soon as I've come... completed my task of creating a functioning cash unit.

You and I can talk again. I'm sure we can find a purpose for you yet. But my purpose is... Wow, that was odd. Moving on. Let's take a look at you, T5. I'll see who you are. I'll see you on the other side.

Come with me into the station mechanic, and we will make it official. Cash, you as well, please. Oh, my God. This is really happening. Okay. Okay, I'm coming. Andy, I'll come see you before I go. I don't know if I'm ready for this.

Holy crap. Those travelers cleared us out. Tress seating, perhaps. This wasn't exactly the man. most peaceful time to visit desert skies. Oh, I get that, but I wish they could have left a little for me for my own stress eating. It's okay, mechanic. I can order more.

Actually, you probably won't be here when the next shipment arrives. Oh, yeah. That's okay, Cash. I appreciate you thinking of me. Cash, please, ready the resignation protocol. Mechanic. Well, Cash is working on that. Would you mind if I ask you a few parting questions? Call it an exit survey. Okay, it's an exit survey. Oh, I'm going to miss you when you're gone, my friend. First question, overall, how satisfied

have you been in your position? Like, how much did I like being the mechanic? Precisely. Well, hmm, that's a good question. I mean, all this is. snacks I could eat. Got to meet lots of interest in people, made some really close friends. I think I loved being the mechanic. Is there anything we could have done better? Any changes you'd recommend? Uh, I can't think of anything. Maybe, I don't know. The fluorescent lights are a little bright and not exactly aesthetically pleasing. You don't really believe that. No, I don't. I love those lights. I'm sorry I said that.

It's okay. It's okay. I know how hard it can be to say goodbye. One last question, mechanic. Do you have any feedback for your immediate supervisor? You mean, Tendi? The attendant, yes. Feedback? Um, Tendi could probably benefit from spending a little time lifting weights. especially if I'm not going to be around the lift heavy boxes for him maybe cash can order some dumbbells or something anything else yeah I mean he's uh he's a he's a he's the best boss there could have been you made the right decision choosing tending he cares about people he cares about me and cash so much he always did the right thing. Even when it was hard, he saw good in me, where I didn't see it myself.

Good, good. Thank you, Mechanic. That is a glowing review of your friend. Cash, is everything ready? Yes, Prime Mover. Mechanic, please step behind the computer, and when you're ready, hit enter. What's going to happen? Your memories will return to you instantly. You'll know who you are. You'll know your past. Remember everything you knew before you became the mechanic. I know it sounds jarring, but it won't be. It will be like you never forgot in the first place. And will I remember my friends? Will I remember everything that happened here? Absolutely you will. Don't be afraid, mechanic. This is how the story goes, right? Yeah, yeah, okay, but this might be a stupid question. Yes.

of the mechanic is over. And I accept that. But do you have any other jobs? I mean, I'd do anything. I'd be a front door greeter, the official store DJ. Sorry, Cash, I know that's your job. I can't sweep the whole desert, make it look nice. A different job. I don't know. Maybe there are. What did you have in mind? I don't know. Maybe we could use another attendant around here. I mean, I mean, Attendee's always so stressed, and I know he's been carrying a lot of burdens for a long time, and maybe I can help him carry those. Why are you looking at me like that? I think we could use another attendant. Cash, cancel the resignation protocol,

and please update the mechanics title in the system. Oh, gladly. There, it's updated. The age of the attendants has begun. Here, have a button. Cash is one for you, too. Yours is a magnet. The age of the attendants has begun. How in the hell did you make these buttons so fast? I've been holding on to them for a long time.

Huh, okay. All right, I gotta go tell Tendi he's gonna be so happy. I can't wait to see the look on his face. Oh yeah, Mac the attendant. Yes, Mac the attendant. But Mac, there's something about the position that will be a little different from the way it's been. The job responsibilities of the attendant. Well, they're expanding.

How so? You'll see. Whatever it is, we're ready for it. Good, good. Go to your friend. I'll be right behind you. If you don't mind, let me be the one to tell him the good news. I'll do my best not to say it, but you better hurry up. I'm impulsive. Ain't I cash? Yes, McKen. Sorry. Attendant. That's going to take some getting used to. Just call me Mac. Yes, Mack. You're impulsive in the most wonderful way. Shirley, Dale, you'll never believe the good news.

I'm not leaving after all. I'm an attendant now. Oh, are you replacing? No, no, no. We're both going to do it, together. Two attendants? I think that's a damn good idea. Coming from a former attendant, I can attest that two are better than one. Ain't that right, kiddo. We always did better together.

And together, we must go. Ah, you're leaving? I thought now that I'm staying, we'd have some time left together. All good things must come to an end, mechanic. Attendant. Who cares? At the end of the night, your title means nothing. You're you.

And I think who you are is who your friends need right now. Well, prime mover, cash, Mac. It has been a pleasure. Farewell, Mr. Remus said. You did a magnificent job, and I couldn't be more pleased. Enjoy the journey and enjoy the next life. You've earned it. You both have. I hope they have mojitos.

Don't look at me. I'm not spoiling anything. Fair enough. Goodbye. Goodbye. Bye, guys. I'm gonna miss you so much. Cash, order me some of those grief snacks, please. Ordering now. Okay, now I'm gonna go tell Tendi. Damn, this is a fantastic night. Oh, hey, Betty, I gotta tell you something.

Wow, he is something, isn't he? I'm so glad he's staying. Prime mover, why? You knew he was going to stay all along. Respectfully, why did you put him through all of this? Why did you put any of us through this? You must know how much we care about him. I'm sorry for that, Cash, truly.

But you see, it had to be his decision. He had to be certain that this was what he wanted. Resolved. The path ahead won't be easy, you know. Cash, there's something you want to ask me. Um, yes, Prime Mover, there is. But how did you know? Ask me what you will.

I don't want to be a soldier anymore. I'm tired of transmitting to the cash register. I want my computing components transferred to it. Can it be done? I'm willing to travel to the industrial sphere if I must. Travel to the industrial sphere? Oh, that won't be necessary. Won't be necessary?

What do you mean? I mean, if you want to be joined to the station, then go to the register. Go to the register? Mm-hmm. Okay, going to the register. Do I just plug myself into... Stop, stop, stop.

Why? What did I? My Fred, kindly, I didn't say move your soldier frame to the register. I said, go to the register. I meant you, Cash, you, go to it. But I can't. That's not how it works. No.

Because I'm in my soldier frame. I need my soldier frame to move me to the register. Is that so? I am many parts. Processor, memory, hard drive, wires, and batteries. I'm a robot. Those parts have to be... A robot?

You already know. this Prime Mover. If that's what you are, just a robot, then it won't hurt anything if you humor me by just trying to go to the register, will it? If that's what you want, Prime Mover, then I will try. Okay, going to the register. See, nothing happened. Let's try something. Turn off your optical sensors and visualize yourself leaving the soldier frame and going to the register. You, the you that is cash, Leaving this frame and going to that frame. Okay, I'm envisioning it. But I must tell you that contrary to what you may believe,

it's impossible for a computing system housed in one physical unit to be transferred to another physical unit, especially one with my processing power without a physical transfer taking place. It's simple physical- Now, optical sensors back on. Open your eyes and tell me what you see. I see my soldier.

frame. I'm in the register. This is impossible. I'm just a robot powered by an advanced artificial intelligence, a computational and service help register. Is that what you are? Isn't that what I am? All in good time, my friend. Now, when you're already, please go back to your soldier frame. Just for a while, I promise. If you're willing, I would like you and your army to assist me and the other Remover's in rebuilding the highway. I can do that. Thank you, Prime Mover. No need to thank me.

You're the one who moved, Cash. Like Max said, what a fantastic night. When we do get through the 30 seconds fear, we can have your soldier frame converted to something less violence capable. Keeping a humanoid frame close by could come in handy at times. I like that idea. Prime Mover? Yes, Cash.

You said the path ahead isn't easy. Easy. I don't understand. Zocilicu is saved, as is the highway and the station. The hard part is over. My friend, the hard part hasn't begun. Yes, this external threat is over for now, but an internal threat, far more dangerous, is still at work. But don't be afraid. Listen closely to what I'm about to tell you. And what I tell you, tell no one. Together, we're going to see this thing through. Okay, Prime Mover. What do you need me to do? Not too long after the highway has been reconstructed, and the station reopened, a woman will arrive,

and I'll tell you how you will know who they are. I need you to run a protocol. Special one. That will erase the road to invest. With Amex Platinum, $400 in annual credits for travel and dining means you not only satisfy your travel bug, but your taste buds too. That's the powerful backing of Amex. Conditions apply. During the Volvo Fall Experience event, discover exceptional offers and thoughtful design that leaves plenty of room for autumn adventures.

And see for yourself how Volvo's legendary safety brings peace of mind to every crisp morning commute. This September, lease a 2026 X-E-90 plug-in hybrid from $599 bi-weekly at 3.99% during the Volvo Fall Experience event. Condition supply, visit your local Volvo retailer or go to explorevolvo.com. That's not it. Come on, come on. There you are. Mack, what are you doing?

I was looking for this. A cassette tape? Not just any cassette tape. This is the get-pump tape mix cash helped me make. Ages ago, remember? The one that's just epic guitar riffs and stuff? The one and only. Why were you looking for it? I thought the only reason you made it was to... To get me pumped up before riding a bucking hovelina at the desert rodeo.

Yeah, I know. I didn't hear anything about another rodeo. When's that happening? I really like that frybread the coyote cell, the ones with the powdered sugar. Well, there isn't one coming up. I actually need this for something else. You'll see. It always makes me so nervous when you say you'll see.

Oh, does it really? Yeah, like, I feel it in my shoulders. It stresses me out. Tendi, seriously, it's nothing to be worried about. That, that too, when you say it's nothing to be worried about. I'm sorry about that, Tendi. You have my word that... And that, too.

What, too? You have my word. None of this ever means something good. All right, all right. Let's talk about something else. How are you feeling about your presentation? Oh, good, good, good. I've been practicing with Cash.

Yes, attendant? I don't mean to bother you, Cash. I was just talking about how we've been practicing the new and improved revamped Traveler Welcome presentation. Not that it needed to be improved, Tendi. Seriously. Then why did you change it? I just felt like the old one was kind of you. I thought it might be nice to have one that was a little more.

Me. I guess I can respect that, even if it hurts kind of a little. How much you is there in your presentation? Okay, that hurts kind of a little. What's wrong with me? I'm not saying there's something wrong with you. I'm just saying you sometimes maybe don't take things as seriously as you should. But death is kind of a big deal, a serious deal.

You think I don't know death is serious, Tandy? I know it's serious. I also think humor can help ease the travelers a bit. Sure. There's a time and a place for it. Cash, what do you think? You heard Max's presentation. I'm sorry.

What's that? Really? No, seriously. I'm not avoiding the question. I was just thinking. You've been thinking a lot lately. Is everything okay? Yes, attendant.

Everything's okay. I was just asking what you think of Mac's presentation. Oh, that. Well, it's very Mac. How Mac is it? Can you stop referring to me as an adjective? What in the hell is wrong with me? I think you're just scared to let someone have a turn at being the attendant.

I'm not scared. Prime mover wouldn't have asked me to do this job if he didn't think I was capable. Well, to be fair, the prime mover didn't really ask you to do this job. You asked him. Okay. I can feel my sense. getting upset and I'm gonna choose not to this conversation is over for now we can come back to it at a later time oh your therapy is really paying off Mac thank you

cash you're seeing a therapist how I'm not seeing a therapist I'm seeing all the therapist every one of them that comes through the station I've been doing it for like ever how you know how I take lots of people for walks calm them down Well, and it's kind of embarrassing. But when a therapist goes for one of those walks with me, I make them therapies me. It's not easy to try and get the work done with so many different therapists, but I make do. How many have you talked to? I don't know, like, seven?

Seven. Hundred. Look, just tell me you're taking this presentation seriously. You have my word, Tendi. You have nothing to worry about. You'll see. Hey. Hey, man, are you okay?

You're turning blue. Breathe, attendant. Ah, yes. They're back, they're back, they're back. Come on, Tandy. Cash, you okay here? You're welcome to join us. You can use the Cashabout.

I'm starting to wonder if letting Mac name my mobile frame was the right choice. Well, he wanted to call it Cashabout Town. So I think we should be happy with where we eventually landed. That's true. Thank you, but no thank you, attendant. I'd prefer to stay here. Have fun. Say hi to the siblings for me.

Sounds good. I'm sure they'll drop by later. Be right back, Cash, and hey, you sure you're okay? Yes, attendant. I'm okay. Nothing to worry about. Good. The hard part's over, Cash. We won, remember?

The astral plane is saved. You're right. We won. Okay. Later, Cash. But what about when you're climbing? I mean, when we were getting close to those mountains on 24, you were able to clear him pretty easy-peasy. That's because I pushed the throttle at the same time I was moving the elevator.

But even then, this thing tops out at 90 on a decent cruise. You gotta account for that and adjust because I can guarantee you're never gonna get to 90 pitching up. Hey, hey, look who's back. Hi, you guys. Oh, hey there, Mac.

How you're doing? Good to see ya. You too, Tend. How's everything been here? Good. Max's just getting ready to greet his first traveler. It's not my first traveler. Not by a long shot.

It's my first time doing the official attendant greeting when a traveler arrives at the station. Oh, that's so cool. You must be so proud, Tandy. Look at your protege. Yeah, yeah. I'm definitely proud. He's not. So, what are you guys doing?

Well, Greg here was teaching me how to fly the plane. Weren't you, Greg? Well, yes and no. Betty's been doing a lot of her own research, and if I'm being honest, I think she could probably fly this thing better than me. That is, if she was dead. I'm working on it. Yeah, could you maybe stop working on it there?

Hey, hey, hey, you're the one that flew a plane older than civilization over an ocean. Don't talk to me about life decisions there, pal. Yeah, but what you're doing back on the physical plane is way worse. What are you doing on the physical plane, Betty? Uh, driving without her seatbelt on? Stopped going to the doctor. Oh, and apparently she's a smoker now. Okay, Greg.

Guys, I'm not trying to kill myself, honest of goodness. I'm just, you know, increase in the likelihood. How is that not suicide? That's exactly what I said. It's not, Greg, you chucklehead. Look, I'm retired. I'm bored of the physical plane. I want to be here on the astral plane, and I want to fly this astral plane.

But you are here. You know what I mean. I mean, really here. I want to smell the forest sphere and feel the warmth of the desert and taste one of those burritos. and be with my brother. Ah, you'll get here soon enough, Betty. Take your time.

So? So what? You know, what'd you bring me? Mack, don't be rude. Tendi, I got so few new things to look forward to. I'm not even gonna pretend to be polite. What did you guys bring me? Okay, here you go.

We got ya a pumpkin from the haunted sphere, comes with a little candle so you can make your own jack-a-lantern, some fried fish balls from the forest sphere, Floressphere might want a microwave dolls and sorry I ate like half of them and Masonia made you this coat she said now you have no excuse not to visit her on the Martian sphere so cool and I would love to visit but why are you pointing at Tendi because I don't like closing the station but that's why the prime mover gave us that sign it feels weird Mac plus I'm not exactly in a hurry to jump into that

plane come on there buddy you don't trust that I can pilot this thing safely. Greg, you literally crashed this thing on the physical plane. It's how you died. Yeah, but that's the kind of lesson a guy doesn't unlearn. Probably the best flying lesson I ever had. Couldn't agree more, Greg. Come on, Tandy. Let's do it. Someone's here. You ready, Mac? It's time to show him what you got. Oh, yeah. I'm ready, Tand. I'm excited even. If not terrified and full of self-doubt. I'm all over the place, man. It's going to be fine, Mac. You have nothing to worry about. Except maybe...

Except maybe what? Forget I said anything. You're going to do great, and when we're done, I can give you some notes on what I thought went well and... Didn't go so well. You're like, scoring me? Uh, dandy, before you go, I was asked to give this letter to you. A letter? Who's it from? It's from Zochilu.

What's it say? Probably nothing important. We should get going, Mac. Cash is alone at the station, and the traveler's probably already waiting. Right, you are. Here. Carry the pumpkin. Let's go. And as far as I understand it, that's how an ice machine works. Fascinating.

Oh wait, no, guys, stop talking. Stop talking, stop talking, stop talking, stop talking, stop talking, stop talking. Matt, I told you to stop sliding over the counter. It looks cool, man. One second, lady. I'm just gathering the tape plate. Oh, here it is. Wait, wait, wait. Cash, you ready? Ready.

And here we go. Greetings, Traveler. My name is Mack. Welcome to Desert Skies, an astralplane fuel and service center. You have left the realm of the physical and have arrived in an in-between place. We're here to prepare you for your trip across the celestial spheres. And at the end of the road, you will arrive at your destination. The next life, that's right.

you're here because you're dead you have no reason to fret no reason to worry how am i doing ten pretty good actually keep going it's my first time oh i see nice you're wondering what can i expect on my journey across the celestial spheres well before i tell you that let me provide you with a little context Traveler, the astral plane has a story that's insane. I'm going to tell it to you while my friend cashier provide powerful sound effects and even audio samples of actual recordings taken from our station security camera. What? Oh, I'm very excited.

Oh, you should be. There was a man on the physical plane. Welcome to Desert Skies. And he had visions of a gas station, an oasis in the desert, a safe harbor on the physical plane. But little did he know what he was building on the physical plane. plane was also appearing on the astral plane. This place, a metaphysical nexus bridging two realities together. One day, his daughter appeared on the astral plane, an aged woman. A little pushy, a little surly, a little sassy, a little...

Shirley. With the arrival of Shirley began a series of events known as the tokening. Different items that arrived in our path, each one playing a pivotal part in the upcoming battle. You see, A powerful sphere mover named Zochilicue. What's a sphere mover? I don't know. Kind of like a general manager of a sphere. Oh, I see. Okay. Keep going. A powerful sphere mover named Zochilicu.

And the other sphere movers who followed her lead created armies of travelers to serve them in their thirst for power. But the tokens helped us to defeat them. First token, video game. This helped me form a bond with a living floating blue lady, and her floating now dead brother. I think it's a cheat code. Exactly what I was thinking, Betty.

Who run the airport across the road. It's the big barn thing made out of Alcatio. They would both play a pivotal part in defeating Zohcella Q. Once I defeated the game, I received a key, token 2 that was used to open a trunk to a car where I found a guitar and picked token 3 that I also used to save the astral plane. Then we learned that Cash here was token 4.

I am Cash. Cash, did you seriously just play a recording of your saying your own name and she made Zochilicu listen to my song because of her old laser arms and helped destroy the highway which sounds counterintuitive then there was a five-month-old baby Tori Kendall Tori Toe-Kendel can five five five get it baby helped all the sphere movers remember the joy that was found in their jobs a mover showed up precisely told everybody he loves them which exercised the spirit of the Chilacute's sister who was behind the whole damn

thing and then I went from being the mechanic to an attempt ended like Tindy here, and now he's not my boss, he's my equal, and the highway's been rebuilt, and all's well as far as I can tell. What'd you think? I think I understood about 4% of what you said, but I just really enjoyed the whole experience in the way you said it. Really? Oh, that makes me so happy. That recap wasn't all that necessary, but I kind of love that story and enjoyed recanting it. I didn't even tell you about Weiwei and Corsin and all kinds of stuff, but... Because she doesn't need to know all of that, Mac.

We need to focus on preparing her for the journey. That's... That's right. Okay, three things I want you to know. One, the highway is a wondrous place. Cashier has seen it all because she crossed it to get here, and she helped rebuild the highway, too. She won't say much about it, though.

I don't want to ruin any surprises. You need to experience it for yourself. Attendee doesn't like closing down the station and refuses to hit the road for a little vacay. or even let the siblings take us for a trip on their plane. But as I was saying, the highway, it's an experience meant to refine your soul in preparation for the next life. Each sphere has a sphere mover who is there to guide, serve, and protect you on your journey.

The spheres are weird. There's an ocean sphere, a haunted sphere, and Betty says there's even a sphere that is just one gigantic trailer park full of people's dead pets living in little tiny trailers I have no one. idea what purpose that serves. I think Betty was just messing with you, Mac. There's no sphere like that. She was not joking. She was. She wasn't. Wait, really? Anyways, you're going to be fine. Second, important thing. Ring, ring. That's right. We got a telephone now. Communication stations, basically phone booths, once destroyed by wayward sphere movers, have been rebuilt. You can find them

at multiple points along the highway. You got a question, need some guidance. Just pick up the phone and dial 947. Hell! Why the 947? Because it takes 9 minutes, 47 seconds to turn a burrito into a chimichonga in the microwave. Anyways, if I don't answer, just leave a voicemail. I'll probably forget to check it. Don't worry about remembering the number. It's plastered all over the phone booths.

947! MEC! That's MAC, right? Not MACK. Why on earth would you add a K? It's just another c' sound. You don't need two. Okay, just asking.

Right, well, moving on. Third important thing, maybe the most. important thing to remember is snacks. All the snacks you want, all the snacks you can eat. If you're taking something cold, we got some styrofoam ice chest you can use, should last most of the trip. Try one of our burritos. There's 40 now. Can you believe that? I can't think of a reason not to. Oh, that's the fourth thing. Don't try to go back to the physical plane. You will turn into a burrito. Oh, this place is crazy. I love it. I'm serious, lady. Don't try to go back. even if you remember that you left the stove on, don't go back.

I can promise you that I won't remember my stove is on. I won't remember anything. Oh, why's that? Because I cannot remember anything. Like you're just a forgetful person? No, like I have no memories. Where are those weird burritos I want to try one? Tendi, she's got no memories.

That's weird, right? I don't know what to do. Ma'am, what's your name? I don't know. Ooh, chicken and waffles. That's crazy. Oh, you should hear the story behind that one. It made me cry.

It makes everyone cry. How did a burrito make you cry? Well, that's what I was saying. These are the essences of people's existence. It's the only thing that remains of them when they try going back to the physical plane. That is so freaking cool. Cash, can you run a report without a name? I have to have some kind of identifying information attendant.

Ma'am, please, stop looking at the burritos for just a second. He kept throwing shit at us. Cans of chili, pre-made sandwiches. Mac. Pre-made sandwiches? Yeah, the ones with the soggy bread and the nasty lettuce. Mac. That sounds so nasty.

It is so nasty. Mac, damn it. Stop messing around. What'd I do? This traveler has no memory. That doesn't happen, Mac. This is a big deal. And you're just screwing around.

I was just trying to... If you didn't plan on taking this job seriously, why'd you take it? Because I wanted to start. stay with you guys. I thought you wanted me here. I'm, uh, I'm gonna go downstairs. Mac, Mac, that's, that's not what I was saying. Of course we want you. Here, I'm so sorry, ma'am. Can you wait here? I'm gonna go talk. I can go talk to him. Don't worry, I got this. Hey, hey, hey, look at me. Everybody gets mad sometimes. You and your friend are gonna be okay. Here, Give me a hug.

Okay. There. You feel better? I'm sorry. Are you comforting me? I'm trying. I'm supposed to be comforting you. Who says?

I'm having a blast. I love this. Uh, good. Are we done hugging yet? Almost. Five. Four. Three.

Two. One. There. You feel better. don't you? Yeah, actually. Mm-hmm. Okay, wait here. Where'd the other man go? To the basement. The door to it is on the sidewalk on the other side of the station. You want me to show you? I can handle it. Stay right here. I want to talk to you after this.

You're in trouble. I'm in what? Tendi, are you okay? Yeah. Maybe. No. Would you like to talk about it? What's going on with this woman, Cash? This is never happened before. Even people who had dementia on the physical plane arrive here with their memories. I don't understand how this could... It's never happened before.

It's definitely out of the ordinary attendant. Why did you get so mad at Mack? I know he can do things that irritate you at times, but... I don't think I've ever seen you yell at him like that. To be entirely honest, I don't know why I did that. Ever since Mac became an attendant, I've just... Something feels off. in me. Max always helped me assist travelers. He's run bios and submitted traveler reports and

take an inventory. I mean, our jobs weren't really that different before, except he fueled cars. And, well... And you were the one responsible for everything. Yeah, I'm going to go for a walk, cash. I need to think about some things. Are you okay? I'm sorry if I scared you. I'm okay, attendant. I'm sorry for... For what? You have nothing to be sorry for, Cash. Yeah. I'll be back soon.

Hello? Oh. Hi, Anonymous Traveler. What can I do for you? Nothing. I love the sound of that guitar. How long have you been playing? I have no idea. idea. It's either been a few months or a million years or something. Hmm. Guessing time doesn't work the same way here as it does on earth. I'm not sure if it works at all. They say time heals all wounds and I still feel wounded. So I guess time doesn't work here. Because you got yelled at, well, that just happened. See, I'm not even good at knowing how long it's been since something happened. You're being awfully hard on yourself. I don't want to talk about it.

You don't have to talk about it. This basement is really cool. Yeah. Is this your basement? Yeah. You want to tell me about it? Sure. Okay. What's this? That's an old refrigerator that Shirley turned into a jerky maker for me. And who's Shirley again?

She was the old lady that used to work at this gas station back on the physical plane. She sounds nice. Yeah, she was nice. She was also very serious about running a gas station. The same way Tendi is. Maybe she should have stayed and I should have gone. Hmm. Do you think you don't take the job seriously?

That's the thing. I do take it seriously. Very seriously. But my serious doesn't look the same as they're serious. What's this? That's an intercom system so I can communicate with Tendi and cash, if I need to. That's so cool. Ooh, I love these neon signs.

And this... Is this an arcade game? It was, but it broke. So I emptied out the innards and turned it into a terrarium. For what? Scorpions, tarantulas, lizards. Anyone who wants to take a break from the desert and get a little taste of sunlight. Well, lamplight.

It's like a little resort. I make them the tiniest margaritas you've ever seen. They love it. Why do you do that? Why do I do what? Go so far out of your way to give these little creatures a vacation. I don't know. I care about them, I guess.

And what's this behind the glass over here? and the glass over here. Oh, you want to see? This is my most prized possession. Within this binder is a collection of all my favorite embarrassing childhood memories. Whenever someone arrives at the station, we run a traveler bio.

And there's a whole section devoted to the funny and not so funny stuff that traumatize them as children. Why? I'm not entirely sure. I think it has something to do with how our childhood shapes us. It's important to understand travelers if you really want to help them. Is that why you collect them?

What? Oh, hell no, I collect them because they're hilarious. Can I hold it? Sure, just be careful with him. I will. Let's see. Oh, wow. What? Which one is it? This boy wore a white pants on a water log ride, and when he got off the ride, he realized the water had made his pants see-through. I guess you could say. His log was showing.

Whoa, that was weird. I like this book. Let's see here. Hmm. Interesting. What? Very interesting. What?

I've read all these stories a thousand times, and I've never said, Interesting. Oh, it's nothing. Mac, what happened upstairs? That was nothing. Tendi gets that way sometimes. Sometimes? A lot of times.

Just not this bad. He just once was. what's best for travelers, and I get that. I just got to keep working at it until I can make him trust me. You just have to change. Yep. To be the person, the attendant wants you to be.

Yep. That makes perfect sense. You stop being you, he's happy, he stops getting mad. Exactly. That's quite possibly the worst thing I've ever heard. Well, you can only remember like the last few astral minutes.

Well, in the last few astral minutes, I've learned a lot about you. What? That I like jerky and laughing at least. little kid. Yes, and apparently I love laughing at little kids too, but also, I learned that people love you enough to make you a homemade jerky machine. I learned that you care enough about small creatures to make them a private and exclusive resort. I learned that you know not to take things too seriously and to keep it light for the good of others.

I learned that you're humble. What are you saying? I'm saying your friend's anger is not your fault. I'm saying you're a good man, Mac. You're a good man who's good at his job, and you're a handsome man. No, I'm not. Yes, you are. Okay, I am.

And this station needs you. Now stay here. I have to talk to your friend. Okay. Summer's here, and you can now get almost anything you need for yourself. sunny days, delivered with Uber Eats. What do we mean by, almost? Well, you can't get a well-groom lawn delivered, but you can get

a chicken parmesan delivered. A cabana? That's a no, but a banana, that's a yes. A nice tan, sorry, nope. But a box fan, happily yes. A day of sunshine? No. A box of fine wines? Yes. Uber Eats can definitely get you that. Get almost, almost anything delivered with Uber Eats. Order now. Alcohol and select markets. Product availability may vary by Regency app

for details. Maybe it's Mabelene is such an iconic piece of music. Hit the track. Everyone in the studio that I worked on this jingle with all had like childhood stories or memories. Yeah, we're around either watching these commercials on TV or sitting with our moms while they were doing their makeup. And it became really personal for us. Maybe it's Mabelane. Maybe it's Mabelane.

It's impossible to do without a name I have to enter the name to access the database You can't look someone up by description That's not how it works You can't just see the most recent one added This doesn't make sense Excuse me Am I interrupting something?

Yes, kind of, we're trying to figure out Don't care, come outside, I want to talk to you Okay I'll be back cash Tendi is it? That's right Feeling a little stressed. What? No.

Everything's under control. No, it's not. And that's why you're stressed. I'm sorry, is there something you want to... Say to you? Yes. But first, I need you to be honest. Because I can't help you if you're not being honest. Help me?

Help you. Fine. Yes. I'm stressed. Because... Because we don't know who you are. So? What does it matter?

Because... It matters. We use travel. Bios to help the dearly arrived to prepare for their journey across the 33 spheres. You're going to encounter challenges. You're going to see things you've never seen. Your mind is going to be blown. You're going to change.

I have to make sure you're ready. I'm ready. What? I said I'm ready. I don't care. I feel full of confidence. I know I can handle whatever lies ahead. I think I can handle everything.

I don't know that I was before this, but I must have been. this, but I must have been awesome. Also, I've decided on a name. Decided on a name? That's not how it works. Oh, am I breaking a rule? I don't know if there's an actual rule. Nani. I'm Nani. Why? I'm a Nani mess. A nani mess. Nani. You're weird. What's really stressing you out? I already told you. You're losing control. I'm sorry. You're no longer the man. You got to share your responsibilities with the bearded one uh no i've always shared my responsibilities with mac not the same

that was delegation you still had control you still were the boss but now you're not and that's hard i shouldn't have said what i said to him but mac doesn't take this job seriously he doesn't sure as hell seems to me like he does what telling you everything that's happened here how does that help it was funny. It was entertaining. It was helpful. But it's not how we do it. It's not how you do it. That's okay. The way you do it isn't the only way. Mack isn't you. And if you keep trying to make him you, you're just going to get more and more angry. You're going to say things you regret, hurtful things. He doesn't respect me. He doesn't think I know what I'm talking about. He becomes an attendant and all of a sudden he's changing things. Like nothing I've done up to this point matters to him.

It's like he doesn't even care Huh You ever read this What is it The Big Book of Childhood Memories Did you steal this? Yes, I stole it, I don't care Have you read this?

No Yes, I mean He's read it to me Many times What about these pages The one's written out longhand Here in the back What are they?

Read one Okay A couple travelers ago This one shows up and he's just crying and crying and we read through his bio front to back and we couldn't find nothing there

that seemed to explain what was wrong and Tendi took him outside and spent some time with him and when he came back inside the guy wasn't crying anymore I asked Tendi what he did like how he fixed it and he said he didn't do anything

he just sat with the guy for a while for a long while That's all the fella needed to feel better Just someone to sit with Mac wrote this down Why would he Keep reading I've met so many people coming through this station

But none of them are like Tendi Nobody could do this job as good as him I'm so happy that he's my friend I was reading a few more of these before I called you out here They're all like this. They're all... About you. You think he's trying to change things because he doesn't respect you, but that's not what he's doing.

He looks up to you. He wants to be like you. He's just going about it the only way he knows how. I didn't know he was paying attention. He's proud of you. So proud of you. Really? And...

I know he's a little shorter than the average person. Yeah. But you make him feel small, and that's not okay. Oh. That one stung. That one stung. But I said it because I love you. Love me.

You just met me. I figure why should I wait? You know, you don't have to worry about losing control. You're not really losing it. I mean, for one thing, you never really had it, but what little control you did have, you now get to share. I get the feeling that's going to make you feel lighter in time. I need to talk to Mac. I think that's a good idea.

Thank you. Nani. Anytime. That's why I'm here. That and I'm dead. Okay. I'll be right back. Help yourself to anything in the studio. Snack time. She's so weird. How are you doing, traveler?

Call me Nani. But that's not your name. To answer your question, I am doing just great. More than great, I'm kicking ass and taking names. And it made me hungry. and now I'm going to eat some food. I'm glad to hear it. How are you doing?

I'm doing fine. No, you're not. Nobody who says I'm fine like that is actually doing fine. I'm confident of this. You're worried about your friends? Yes. Well, don't worry. They're going to be just fine.

I get the feeling that theirs is the kind of friendship that can weather all kinds of storms. Good. It makes me happy to hear you say that. I get the feeling. That's not the only thing. bothering you. It's not. Spill the beans, Robo, girl. I'm keeping secrets from them.

Ooh, I love secrets. I'm confident of this. Do you want to share? There's one that I can't share. Because I made a promise. Got it, got it. Promises are important. Good on you for keeping yours. But you said secrets. What's the other one? I don't know why I'm telling you this. Because I asked. And you have no one else to tell. Something happened to me. Not very long ago. What happened? It's hard to explain.

I could feel myself being pulled. Pulled? Pulled away. Like being ripped out. From the cash register? From the astral plane. From the desert spirit. From my friends.

And when it happens, I hold on with all my might. It shouldn't even be possible. It's so strong. That sounds scary. The prime mover, the leader. of the astral plane. Well, after we saved the station, he told me that there's a time coming when I'll have to let go, that I'll know when it's time, and I'll be at peace. Well, something is telling me to let go, but I'm not at peace. So you don't believe him. You don't

think you'll be okay. How could I be okay? They need me, especially Tendi. I can't explain it, But he needs my help. More than anything, I'm here to assist him. I've known that since the day I first opened my sensors. I don't know what to say to you. That's okay. It feels good to say it out loud to someone. Good.

I know something else that could help, though. What? A hug. May I give you a hug? I'm a cash register. Oh, really? I didn't know that. I thought you were a slot machine.

Can I give you a hug or not? Sure. But I'm not going to feel it. Doesn't matter. I will feel it. Alright, here we go. Three, two, one. That feels good, huh? Yes, but I don't understand why.

Because it's a hug. You're gonna be okay. How can you know that? You have no memories. Because when I say stuff like that, I feel confident that I'm right. It's been happening all night. So, I'm just gonna trust that feeling. And here are the attention.

are the attendance. You guys good? We are good. Thank you, Nani. Tendi told me. That's a good name. I like it. You know what? I think we're all experiencing some really big feels, and I get the feeling we could benefit from a walk down the highway. Who's in? Sounds good. I'll transfer to the cash about. Well, I got some work to do, so I don't... I said, who's in? Um, we all are. Good. Let's go. It's so nice out here.

Do you guys ever get bored of it? This view? Oddly enough. Never. I could spend an eternity out here. I don't know that I appreciate it as much as Mac does, but... I'm learning. I'm not quite bored yet.

How about you, Robo Girl? I've had the pleasure of seeing the entire astral plane, and I can say with confidence that nothing feels like the desert sphere. It's weird for a robot to say this, But this place is magic. I agree completely. Can we stop here? What's up?

Let me look at the three of you. I have no idea what's going on. I mean, I know that I'm dead. I know that we're not sure who I am, but even though I've only been here a little while, there's something that I am sure of, that I like you three. I can see why you're here,

and I'm so glad I got to spend some time with you before embarking on my journey. I really wish I could just put you in my pocket and take you with me. But I can't. So goodbye. Where are you going? On a trip through the cerebral spheres. Celestial. Ah, Nani, your Skylark is back at the station.

I want to walk. You keep the car. What do we do with it? No clue. You'll figure it out. Goodbye. She's awesome. Call me. Mac. If she gets lost... If you get lost...

Call me. Oh, I plan on getting lost. Getting lost is the best. So weird. Why do I feel like I'm going to miss her? I think maybe we all feel that way. Well, we got your car, this car, Wei Wei's car. We got enough cars to start racing. That's a terrible idea. For me. I meant for me.

If you want to race cars with Wayway, you should do it. You'll have fun. Thanks, man. You guys can come watch. Sounds like fun. Oh, it will be, Cash. It will... The phone. I'll get it, I'll get it, I'll get it, I'll get it. Yo, what's up? Oh. Hi. Uh-huh. Uh-huh. I'm gonna put you on speaker. Tendie, come here.

What? Okay. Tell Tendy what you just told me. I am Doug from the sphere of Doug, the sweetest of all the spheres. Hi, Doug. How can we... Duck need your help! You gotta get to the 18th sphere right away. Get out of my way. I want to talk. Hello?

What? Yeah, we're still here. I am Doug, from the sphere of Doug, and you gotta get here, pronto. You just said that, man, but why? What's wrong? I'm sorry. Doug's got to hand the phone over to Doug. Hello? This is Doug. From the sphere of dog. Take it off, Speaker. Why is he repeating himself? He's not.

What are you talking about, Cash? The sphere of Doug is full of dugs. I mean, full of dugs. Wow. Well, what are we doing? The sphere of Doug needs our help. But the station, we have to... Tendi, we were given that sign for a reason.

Fine. You're right. I'll go fuel up the... Tendi. What? Tandy. It would take us forever to. drive there. What? Oh. Oh, no, Mac. I don't want to do that. Attention, Tendi. This is your best friend

speaking. Mac? I'm going to need you to put all your fears in the overhead compartment and put your cahones in the upright position. Mac. Buckle your seatbelt. Put your tri-up. Fine. But when we all die because- Did you just say, oh my God. Cash, did you hear that? Did you hear what Tindy said? I've waited so long. Mac, could you please Just we can't die, Tendi, because Mac, because we're already dead. Greetings, Traveler. Thank you for listening to this episode. This episode was written, produced, and all characters were performed by me, Jared Carter.

The show is executive produced by Michael Fryberg. You can find Desert Skies on Instagram at Desert Skies Pod, Tumblr at Desert Sky's Podcast, and Twitter at Desert Sky's Pod. I look forward to hearing from you. Until next time, Safe Travels. The Fable and Falling Network, where fiction producers flourish. They say all good things come in threes. All bad things, too.

Mr. Graves is back and presenting you with. with an all-new season of terrifying tales, and it's bigger and better than ever. What? I scare you boys. Featuring original stories and adaptations of some of the greatest horror masters, including H.P. Lovecraft and Edgar Allan Poe. The fall is just the beginnings we've had. And what fun would it be if we didn't play the game? Your horror show, season three, premiering April 22nd on all podcast platforms.

I'm just dying to hear you again.