Desert Skies - Chapter 16 - It's Gonna Cost You

Episode Date: August 7, 2024

Corson arrives at the station and he has news to share. He's learned something on his journey through the Celestial Spheres, and brought something back with him. This is the tale of one of the strangest of the Spheres and one of the more curious of Sphere Movers. Buy Tickets to see Desert Skies in Portland and Seattle this April Join Club 86 Visit our Merch Store Join the Discord Visit our Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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For the best listening experience, headphones are recommended. I can tell by the looks on your faces and your screen that my presence was unexpected, and you are now curious to know where I found this. Very well, I'm not one to leave a bitch in suspense. My story takes place on one of the most mysterious of our spheres. And with one of the more curious of our sphere-movers, I must warn you, though, which you're about to hear... Hold that hell, Corson.

Why? What are you doing? I'm getting a pickle. A pickle! Give me one. I love pickles. Spicy or regular? Oh, you know what I want. Actually, I do not. Oh, regular, please. For the thrill of the deal.

Mac, have a seat. I'm trying to tell you how I found this bitch. Nani, are you okay with him calling you that? It's cool, Tindy. Don't be such a little bitch. Good one. A pie. Yeah. Seriously? All right, all right. I'm ready for a story.

Oh, wait, I forgot popcorn. Do it and I'll strike you down with lightning. Okay. As I was saying, my story takes place on the strangest of spheres. One that is... Darker than a stornest night. It's asians. little to the taste and

hotter than the fiery pits going down like lava where it wants to sew and tingles the nerves it's down right spooky and I roast it myself I see

I've never tried coffee before I'm partial to O'Gray ah yes I am a fan of tea but I find the coffee awakens the senses to a greater degree, which comes in handy on these stormy days. Thank you for that, by the way. Is it stormy enough for you, Dusick?

More rain, more lightning. I could dial it up a bit if you wish. Oh, thank you, Corson. No, I like it exactly as you've graciously provided. It so perfectly complements our sphere's spooky aesthetics. Couldn't agree more. It's been ages since I've visited your... sphere, but I've always thought my powers lended themselves towards the horrors of your home

place. Would you care for cream and or sugar? No, thank you. I'll try it as it comes first. Very well. Mitch Black, it is. Oh, oh, you're making a joke. It's Black, I get it.

Ah, ha ha. Ah! I must say, it is nice to have another sphere mover here as a visitor. I'll admit, mine is not the type of sphere that receives many of our kind. But lately, that seems to be changing. What brings you here? What brings me here? Do you not remember? You sent me an invitation via Goblin, said you had something important to discuss.

I did. I do not recall sending an invitation to you. It's because you didn't. I sent you the invitation, Corson. Zuchilicue. What is this trickery? I mean you no harm, Corson, but I do understand your apprehension. The last time we met, I was not myself.

Yes, I do remember. You were a bit, how should we put it? Murderous. We will discuss the state of my mind during that dark time later, Corson. It's part of why I asked you here. I'm sorry it was under false pretences. I was worried you wouldn't come if you knew it was I who wrote you. You stole my stationery.

Golden Spiderweb embossing is not so easy to find. My sincerest apologies, Dusick. You invited me into your home, and I betrayed your trust. Please, accept these as my apology. Black spider mums, my favorite. This more than makes up for your transgressions, Ochilicule. These don't grow here naturally. Thank you.

Why didn't you just come to my sphere? Why bring me here? All in good time. Dusick, if you wouldn't mind accompanying us to the graveyard, I'd like to show Corson something and ask you a few questions about the 13th sphere while we're at it. Of course, my dear. I shall have the coachman made ready, and the horses revived.

While we wait, shall I have the chef prepare us some sand itches? Oh. Ah, ha, ha, ha. Here we are. Here we are. Oh, I do hope you enjoy my graveyard, Corton. I'm certain it's enjoying your rain I'm Glad to be of assistance. Who's this? Oh, I know this feline.

Barbara, she likes to escape her home and haunt our graveyard. I'd love to have a cat someday, but I have a dog, you know. He is not very nice. Is Barbara okay out here alone? Don't worry. Her owner will be along to pick her up shortly. They are coming to get you, Barbara. Any time now, I'm certain.

Bussick, I imagine you've been asked this question before, but... Why is there a graveyard? If all travellers on the astral plane are already deceased? Um, yes, that precisely. I do not know. I do not know. But you must have your suspicions. No one could spend as much time here as you have and not manifest some sort of explanation. no matter how unreasonable it might be.

I believe that may have been true at one time or another, but over the ages, I seem to have stopped thinking about it at all. It just is. So Chilikil, why have you had me bring you here? Both that I mind, the stroll in the graveyard does wonders for my soul. But one does wonder, they do. Because, Dusick, I wish to see the garden. Oh, but our garden is not here, my lady.

It's in the center of the park. Very lovely, very tranquil. I'm not speaking of that garden. There is another growing in the catacombs. And I... There is no other. And I would be eternally grateful if you were to show it to us. I invite you into my own, and you doubt to treat me.

With such disrespect? What is this? What's going on? The only one who has shown anyone disrespect is you, Dusik. Where is the garden? Show me now. I will not. You will, or you will suffer me. Back to your old ways, I see.

I've struck you down before, Zochilkew, and I'll do it again. Stand back, Dusik. You would be making a grave mistake attacking me. This sorry excuse for a sphere mover has been keeping secrets, Corson, and putting a great many in danger by doing so. Now, stand aside. I can explain. What is she talking about, Dusik? Would you like to tell him, or should I? You'll find the entrance at the base of the willow. Please forgive me. I shall leave you now. You think I would let you out of my sight? You're coming with us. But I

Cawson, you trust me, don't you? I've done nothing wrong. Well, I'm weary of Zocilicu. I've played enough poker to spot a bluff from a mile away. You're lying, bitch. But Cawson... Lead the way. Very well.

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Oh, hi, buddy. Who's the best? You are. I wish I could spend all day with you instead. Uh, Dave, you're off mute. Hey, happens to the best of us. Enjoy some goldfish cheddar crackers. Goldfish have short memories. Be like goldfish. I'm not playing games, Ducet. And sadly, neither am I. But be patient, and you will see. Under the wide and story sky, dig the grave and let me lie.

Very few have seen what you are about to see. Even I, who admires all that is spooky, macob, dark and dusty, finds this plane. unsettling. Are you certain? Take me to them. How did you know? It's of no concern to you. Very well. Let us enter. Here, it's best if we each take one of these. It's darker than dark in these halls and there's no one coming to save you should you be lost. Wait, there are usually four torches here now there are but three

Dusick what if the torches should go out while we're inside Oh in that instance it's quite possible that you could lose your way Even I have not managed to explore the entirety Of these catacombs And I've been here a while When not for these markers along the way You'd never find your way out

So your torch is of utmost importance That doesn't answer my question, Dusick. What if it goes out? How shall it be relit? Oh, it won't. They never go out. They are enchanted. Anyways, to the garden.

Watch your step. Where is that sound coming from? Oh, that's coming from the Corvin Cantina. Very exclusive bar. wonderful vibes. They occasionally have live music. It's the only thing that's live down here. What are these large drawers for?

Who? Don't who? But I don't understand. You don't want to. Why wouldn't I want to? Patience, Corson. I get the feeling that soon all will be revealed. Very well.

I used to think my sense. Fear was scary. It feels like a child's theme park now. And here we are, the garden. Allow me a moment to raise the portcullis. There, you may step inside. You first. Oh, no, I insist, my lady. I am not your lady. You first. Very well What is this place? Cradina, secretalor

The Garden of Coffins I don't know much about coffins Apart from what's been told to me by travellers But I'm quite certain they don't grow on vines Well, of course they do Look at them Look at this one Why is it so much bigger than the others

Why are there coffin plants here? I do not know I do not know I do not Stop your lies Stop feigning innocence You know exactly why they're here You've played host to this evil

Quite long enough, Dusick In fact I think you've played more than host Haven't you You've been leading them here The Prime Mover won't be happy to hear that Now where is the one I'm looking for I'm tired of your insults

Zucilicu You were a fool to come here It's you who are the fool What kind of sphere mover capitulates to? Nay, embraces such malevolence. You don't understand, so Chilicue. I would not be able to convince you of my intentions. I was under duress.

Oh well, you've made up your mind about me. For that reason, I must go now. Calm, little ones. Ah, get them off me. They're ruining my hair. Hey, give me that. Let go with that. You despicable creature.

Well, they took our torches. Now what? Dusick, where are you? Please forgive me, Sir Chilicue. You forced my hand. Goodbye. Don't you dare leave us in here. Corson, use your lightning. We can blast our way out. I wish it was so, but my powers won't work underground. Not enough moisture to produce a cloud capable of emitting more than a mild lightning strike,

Not enough to blast open an entrance, but enough to hurt. I'm tempted to use it on you. What were you thinking bringing me here? I'm chasing some sort of being, spirit. I don't know. Whatever it is, it's incredibly dangerous. Dangerous? What do you mean?

The only truly dangerous spirit I've encountered on this plane is standing right in front of me. I knew I shouldn't have trusted you. Corson, I'm not the monster you think I am. Even the prime mover made it clear that I was acting under compulsion when I sought to destroy the station. You say you've acted out of compulsion,

but you're too cunning and too powerful to have been completely under the control of your sister. Your sister may be strong, but there's a reason you were the sphere mover and she was whatever she was. You don't know my sister, or of what you speak.

Oh really? It's been a long, time, but I'm quite old enough to remember a maniacal being by the name of Siwa Kotel, the serpent woman, and a proper name for venomous she was. Travelers disappearing from the astral plain she used to build an army. If it hadn't been for Weiwei Kootel, she'd have wreaked total havoc on this place. Had she not been banished to the physical plane? And who do you think banished her there, Corsin? Who do you know besides me? With the power to remove souls from the astral plane.

Am I not the patroness of life and death? You banished your sister. I thought she'd gone mad, Corson. I truly believe that. That she'd lost her mind. I was wrong. I don't understand. I don't expect you to, Corson.

You see, a long time ago, there was a woman, a traveler. one of those who are called the divine women. The divine women. Those who died in battle. My sister was their guardian and guide. A warrior, leading warriors. An interesting job. In our family, an important one.

My sister took her job seriously, Corson. Seriousness runs in your family. For our work is always serious. Some of us don't have time for games And it shows This woman She disappeared while under the care of my sister Cece claimed to know nothing of the disappearance

And I believed her Pardon, Cece It's what I called my sister One day, shortly after the traveler had been lost Cici disappeared And then it started happening More travelers journeying through the astral plane began disappearing, and every time that a traveler went missing, there she was.

Many witnesses attested to her presence at each scene. I would go to find her, but she would always flee before I arrived. It seemed all hope was lost, that is, until Weiwei Koyotul discovered her whereabouts. Which was where? The second sphere. The forest sphere. But why? The forest is an easy place to hide, and the bears have very little interest.

in Astral Affairs. Anyways, Wayway convinced me to turn against my sister. I know he took no pleasure from it. He said removing her from existence was the only way to ensure that no traveler would be lost to us again. So we went to the second sphere. Osonia and a few others joined us, and there we found her. Cece, surrounded by travelers, clothed in the garb of warriors.

They were ready to fight. She was ready to fight. But still, I tried to reason with her, Corson. It was no use. We battled. I overcame her. But I could not remove my own sister from existence. I just couldn't.

So I banished her instead to the physical plane. I failed her. You did what you had to do. You were right to trust Wei Wei. But he was wrong. How so? She was telling the truth, Corson. Someone else took that woman.

Someone else took them all. But you just said your sister was found with all of the stolen travelers. It's true. She was found with a group of travelers, but many more than were found with her had gone missing entirely. But how does any of this absorb your sister? Because when she entered my mind, I saw it. I understood. She really was scouring the astral plane looking for the being responsible

for the first woman's disappearance. And yes, she took travelers, and she trained them as warriors. But for the purpose of overcoming whoever was responsible when she found them, she knew that no one would believe her until a culprit was discovered. But she never got the chance because of me. Well, that does change things. I sent her to the physical plane, Corson. It's no place for an astral being. By nature, their very essence rejects it. It's a fate worse than annihilation.

I fear that now she really has gone mad, and it's my fault. When she entered into my mind, she was different, changed. The hurt done to her drove her to seek revenge. On the person she claims was responsible for stealing travelers. When under her influence, I visited every sphere mover in an effort to convince them, whether by threatening them or making false promises, to abduct travelers so that she could have an unbeatable army, to seek out and destroy the unknown being responsible for taking travelers,

but also to seek out and destroy those whom she felt had made it possible for that to ever happen in the first place. I see, but So Chilicue, why are we here? Because while I was building her army, I visited this sphere. Dusik was not at home, so I waited in his study. There was a page on his desk, written in the darkest of ink, and I took the liberty of reading it. The words didn't make sense at the time.

What did it say? It was in a language I didn't understand. But something about the note. spoke to me. So I made a copy of it. I don't know why, but I chose not to ask Dusick the meaning. I believe it may be written in his heart's tongue. I just kept the note with me. I must have read it a thousand times. I had to travel to the sphere of industry and visit the Grand Library to translate it. It's Romanian. It said, bring them to me, or your soul, is mine. Under the dead, in the garden of coffins, I wait for you. Bring no torch. I wish to not be seen.

And you think this note was written by the one your sister spoke of? I do, Corson. More than think, I know. But why? The note was the first clue, but I needed proof. I needed to be right before I brought this to the prime mover. Of course. You wouldn't want to gain the reputation. of your sister. So I began corresponding with the attendant of desert skies, sending him letters by way of the flying siblings, requesting the names of new travelers passing through the desert sphere. At first, he was hesitant and denied my request, which I can understand. So I had to tell him what I was doing, what I suspected. I asked him to tell no one else, especially the one formerly known as the mechanic.

But why? Those two are like chance in community chest. I can't imagine him not telling Mac. I made it clear. If he were to tell him, Mac would tell Wei, and Wei would never trust me. He'd think the same thing that happened to my sister

happened to me. I couldn't risk that. But the attendant, he did end up trusting you? He must have. Because he began sending me the names I'd requested. And then I waited to see. see who came through my sphere, and sure enough, I began to notice a discrepancy between his

list and mine. It seemed that somewhere between the station and my sphere, travelers were disappearing. Some travelers like to take their time, you know. And I gave it to them. After I'd waited what seemed like enough time, I wrote letters to the movers of the 12th and 14th sphere. Just as I'd suspected, all of the travelers' names the attendant had provided had been identified. as passing through the 12th sphere. And the 14th sphere? Also, as I'd suspected, their list matched mine.

I was right about the note. Travelers were disappearing on the 13th sphere. I just needed Dusick to lead me to this garden. And I needed you to... To be a witness. So the prime mover would believe you. You should have chosen someone else. Why me?

Because... You've proved yourself all. honorable on more than one occasion, protecting that station, not succumbing to my threats by joining me on my Dark Crusade. Corson, you are very decent. How dare you? But also apart from us getting trapped in here, you're remarkably clever, Zuchelikeau. Confirming your hypothesis the way you did, maybe you'll join me for a board game someday

when we get out of here. If we get out of here, I can't imagine there's many games one can play in the dark, is there? Um, well, there is Cawson Polo. Corson... Polo. One of us is looking for the other and yells Corson like this. Corsen and the other person, the one who's hiding, has to respond by yelling Polo like this. Polo!

What in the Blazers was that? I can't believe you found me so cheerikul. truly impressive but also rude you see that invitation was personal Lord Dusick's eyes only who are you? Oh I don't think I'll be giving you my name and I keep it dark in here for a reason Dusick calls me grim

I don't think he says it with any affection but I'm starting to like it He's the one we've been looking for Corson The one my sister Failed to catch. How is she, by the way? Last I heard, someone had banished her to the physical plane. That's not very kind. You dare to speak to me of kindness.

What have you done with them? To whom are you referring? You know who. Where are the travellers you took? Oh, them. They're here in more ways than one. Sure. Yes, in the boxes they call coffins, those in the graveyard and the catacombs.

But they're also in me. Do you take me for a fool? Whoever these boxes are filled with, they're not travelers. Travelers can't die. Travelers can't die. You think you're so smart. You both do. And yet here you are in my possession.

No, travelers cannot die, but they can be dismantled. Dismantled in what way? You don't know. If anyone should know, it's you. How could I? You like that station, don't you, visited many times. As I remember, you're quite partial to a certain microwavable burrito. David's devil's something or another.

Devil's food cake. That's it. You can't get enough of it. Always leaving with a box or two. But how did you... I make it my business to know what happens in that station and to see who comes through it. How?

Well, let's say I had a little hand in its creation. I may have planted an eye on the inside. Does that make you angry, worried? I know how much you care about those mortals. It's admirable. Really? You're practically a god, and you're playing board games with bargain-bin spirits.

But there are more than that, aren't they? Still, caust them. Do you have no shame? Very little. It shows. Anyways, back to the burritos. How do the burritos come to? to be. So Chilicue.

Anyone who tries to return to the physical plane is converted into a burrito. Everyone knows this. Oh, come on! That's such an oversimplified explanation. It's like saying anyone who goes through course and sphere comes out the other side wet. That's the outcome, not the cause.

How do the burritos come to be? You tell me. A gate. A gate built to dismantle the traveler, separating their essence, call it a soul or a spirit or both, from their astral body. Then what happens to the body? Come on, clever boy, look around. We're in a garden of coffins, a garden that's existed since the day the first traveller arrived.

I imagine this garden is an amazing place. Coffins grow, seemingly unprompted and without watering. It's like they know what's coming. When a traveler is separated from their body, it shows up here in one of these. Are you really saying that all of the graves in the graveyard, all of the coffins here in the catacombs, these are those whose essences were converted into burritos. That's impossible. There must be hundreds here. Thousands.

But the last time I visited the station, there couldn't have been more than 36, 37 varieties. 40 now. But no, the station wasn't always there. But the gait's always been. Then what were their essences converted to before the station? Cacti, prickly pear, sororo. That explains so much. So all of these are the astral bodies of those who have been converted. Their essences extracted and used to make the cacti, to make the burritos,

and some have been absorbed into me. I've had enough of your nonsense. I don't know what you've done to these travelers, but I am Zochilicue, overseer of the 23rd sphere, and I've been charged with the safety of all who journey the astral plane. You have given me more than enough reason to unfurden you of your existence.

Ah, ha, ha, ha, ha. You don't want to do that. You haven't listened to the rest of my story. Why are you telling us all this? Because I'm lonely. Maybe a little proud, maybe a little ashamed. It's my confession. Go on.

I'll learn a secret. An incredibly spectacular one. You see, a traveler need not go to the gate in order to be dismantled. With enough ingenuity, intelligence, and good old fashion know how I can bring the gate to them. I don't believe it. It's not possible. Oh, it is if you have the plans. You see, I know the mover who was charged with building the gate ages ago. That gate is ancient.

As are we all. As are we all. I got my hands on those plans and used them to build this device. Oh, I know you can't see it in here, but if you could, you would be quite taken back. Should I describe it for you? Please don't. With this device, I can do to a traveler, but prior to they could only do to themselves.

You let me hurt my sister, so that you could do what? Make burritos? No, no, no, I don't want to convert them into burritos. I absorb them into me. It's not without its unpleasant side effects. I don't think it's helping my mind or my disposition. I swore it off for a long time, you know, after your sister. You believed it was her, and when she was gone, there was no one left to look for me.

Hiding is stressful, so I gave it up. I tried, Zuchelikil, I really did, to never do it again. But when they reopened the highway, well, I couldn't help myself. It's quite addictive. I still don't understand. Ever since that first woman, the one under CWarkoto's care. It's all I can think about all of those essences

flowing through my veins, those emotions, those minds. Mine is such a dull existence, working endlessly with nothing but proper morons. And it's thankless, you know. But I don't do that anymore. I left. Now I live here. And Dusik brings them to me.

I recognize your voice. You're someone I know, aren't you? Maybe. But I doubt you'd be able to remember. What is my name, you suppose? I don't know. Of course you don't. Nobody does.

But it doesn't matter. I don't need anyone to notice me. I found something better than friends. Something that truly takes away the pain of this existence. These unfiltered essences. Not like the little drop you get in a burrito, no, all of it. It's so hard to describe. Each one takes me somewhere I can never have gone on my own.

Each one tastes like the faintest one. whisper of something not dead. But it's not enough. I need you. Wait, what will absorbing our souls accomplish? I mean, sure, we're sphere movers, but... Absorbing your essences might just be enough to help me get the time after. Human essences are transcendent.

There's no real power to be heard from them. But with the essences of two sphere movers such as yourselves, the mighty Lord Cawson and the terrible lady so chillicue, maybe I'll have enough power to defeat the one, the prime mover. Ha, no, that would never happen, not ever. I'm talking about your friend, the coyote. You see, all the other humans, they're just appetizers, before I take in the main course. But why, Wei, wait? What reason could you possibly have for?

I have no interest in Wei Wei. He just stands in the way. I've found an anomaly, something on the astral plane that doesn't belong. An essence unencumbered by a body. You know her. I have no idea what you're referring to. Of course you do. The robot.

Cash? Cash has no essence to absorb. She's just a machine. I thought so too. So foolish of me, I was blinded by my pride. I thought I'd created artificial intelligence. But I always suspected, you know, that she was more than she seemed. And I'd have left well enough alone.

Had I not seen it with my own eyes. Seen what? Back home, I can see everything that happens at that station. After the attempt to destroy it failed, The prime mover and cash were alone inside. He told her to move from her soldier frame body to the cash register, and she did. She went from the bot to the box. Impossible.

I reviewed the footage a thousand times. Slowing it down more and more and more, thought I must be out of my mind, and then I saw it, just a faint spectre, but what I saw between the robot frame and that register. It was human. No, you didn't see that. Cash is not human, you idiot.

Not only is she human, but something's happening to her. I have to get to her soon, because she's not going to be here much longer, I'm afraid. How dare you? Something's happening to her. What? What's happening? Something's happening to her. On the physical plane, I don't know what it is.

She's either... Either what? She's either dying. Or she's waking back up. You're not saying. I am saying. Whoever she is, she's alive. Alive?

And I have to get to her quickly. Leave her alone. I can't. I love Cash. She was so kind to me. I have to know what it feels like. All of the other essences I've tasted over generations. They're lacking something.

They're incomplete. Only by absorbing cash will I know what it feels like to be truly alive. You disgust me. I know, and honestly, Corson, I kind of disgust myself. I've learned to exist with it. Now, stay mostly where you are. There's no point in running. You won't get away. This takes a little while. Just a minute.

You said you can make a sense. You said you could make a small thunder cloud from the moisture in here. I'm good for maybe one little strike, a zap. I don't even know where he is. I can't see him. Hello. What was that? There, so Chilicue behind the portcullis, a torch.

Hello there! You guys know the password to get into that stupid secret bar? They won't let me in. Throw us the torch, and I'll tell you. Oh, okay. Sounds fair to me. Got it. There, Corson, the device.

You bastard. Oh, you broke it! Oh, you're gonna pay for that, mate! You're the only one paying for anything today. Unlakely. Goodbye. For now. Come back here.

Where did he go? He could be anywhere. I'm sure he wouldn't have trapped himself in here with us if there weren't another way out. He hasn't lasted this long without having backup plans. So, what's the password? The... ...to get into that bar. get into that bar.

Please draw the portcullis for us so we may exit this place. The portcullis? She means open the door by turning the winch. I'm sorry, the winch? The winch is that divide. I'm just screwing with you. I know what all these words mean for some reason. Thank you, traveler.

What is your name? My name is Nani. It's short for Anonymous because I don't know who I am. That's odd. Thank you, Nani. not only for the door your quick action with the torch saved us from what would have been a most

unfortunate end yeah yeah you're welcome so what's the password for that secret bar down the way oh I don't know I lied we don't actually know the password we just really need it

you don't know the password seriously okay look give me back my torch wait you guys look stressed and also important. And you got those echoey voices in everything.

Are you like, I don't know, you look like some sort of queen? My skirt, by the way. Those are some pretty flowers. Oh, thank you. I'm a sphere mover. I oversee the 23rd sphere, which is the sphere of flowers. Got it. That means you must be a sphere mover too.

I'm guessing some kind of Italian disco. Italian disco sphere. Yeah, or like a pimp sphere. I'm sorry, it's just your clothes. My clothes? Horson, calm down. You insult my sense of fashion, my dear. You dress like you're trying too hard.

You're what, 40, 45 in human years? Horson, we don't have tired. But you dress like you're in your mid-20s. The color of your ill-fitting back combed ponytail goes terrible with whatever you think passes for foundation and nobody wears hiking boots with acid-washed jeans if they want to be taken seriously. Yeah?

Well, you dress as fancy as you can because you don't want anyone to feel safe enough to get close to you because you know that behind all of this, you're just a scared little man. That was so mean. That was mean. Would you like to be my friend?

I thought we already were friends. Now, come on, get me into that bar. You can pretend you're my dad. What do you mean your dad? Of course, and as much as I'd like to stay and have a drink, the one that calls himself grim is still down here somewhere. We may have bought a little time by breaking his device, but I don't know how much. What do you suggest we do? You go to the desert sphere, tell the attendants and Weiwei what happened here, then take cash and hide her. Somewhere, anywhere on the astral

plane, where you think she won't be found? When you're done, come to me. Where will you be? I'm going to the 32nd sphere His access to the gate's plans His knowledge of the station He must be tied to the industrial sphere somehow Maybe I can get some answers there Now go Get cash before he can get to her

When you arrive We will set out to find the prime mover Wait, robo girl's in trouble I'm coming with you Can I go with you? Fine, but you must play I spy with me as often as I request it Agreed

Follow me. I know the way out. And that's what happened. Oh, my God. I can't believe Cash is... There has to be some sort of mistake, Corson. Cash, my dear. Are you all right? I know that was a lot, too.

Begin message. My friends, I know you will be upset, but I had to leave. And I knew you would try to stop me. You won't find me, so don't even try. I have something I have to do. I promise I'll be back What? Cash is gone We have to do something

I can't believe this is happening I'm so confused Corson should we go after her I'm sorry Tindy I'm as much at a loss as you are But no the last thing I need is the two of you getting lost Or even worse running into that psycho But won't he just come here

Looking for Cash No I don't think he will Not, not for a while. He wasn't willing to come here until he'd absorb the essence of two powerful sphere movers. It's unlikely he'll get the chance again anytime soon. He failed, and he's too afraid to face Wei Wei without our gifts.

Yeah, I agree, Wei, he is a little bitch. He also can't see what's happening in the station anymore. I was wondering why you unplugged the security camera when you got here. My friends, try not to worry. Cash is smarter than all of us combined. I'm sure she left for a good reason, though I can't imagine what it is. And I'm certain she will return, as promised. Now, I must go and meet So Chilicue.

Perhaps if we can find the prime mover, he can help us sort this all out. Are you going to ask the siblings for a ride? I intend to. Good. Maybe you'll spot cash from up there. Nani, are you going to? I think I'm going to stay here. I get the feeling you guys need me.

I think maybe you're right. Yeah. I think so, too. I'm sorry for the way things have gone, attendants. And I wish I could have spent more time with you. I will return. Things will be made right. I know it.

Take good care of them, bitch. I will, dork. Wow. You guys really love cash, don't you? More than anything. Stay here. I'm gonna go microwave you guys some soup. You got a can opener around here?

Um, behind the counter, middle shelf, left side. There's some paper bowls there, too. Thanks. What would it be? Chicken noodle, tomato? You don't have to do that for us, Nani. I know. I want to do it for you. Besides, it's not like I'm doing it for free.

It's gonna cost you. Gonna cost me? I'm sorry. I'm still a little out of it. Yeah, it's going to cost you. You think having a friend like me comes cheap? Having good friends always cost something. I am confident of this.

Yeah. Yeah, I'm confident of that too. Greetings, Traveler. This episode was written, produced, and performed by me, Jared Carter. The show is executive produced by Michael Freiburg. Before you go, there's one last stop we need to make on the astral plane. A friend of mine on the 18th sphere wants to help me thank everyone. who became a member of Club 86 since the end of season one.

Attention all the field mall shoppers. This is nature-tag dog. We wanted to thank each and every one of you who have visited our mall recently, especially those who belong to Club 806. You're truly special to be thanking for your patronage. I'm really terrible with names that aren't dunk, so if I mispronounce yours, just know that in my little heart I know how to pronounce it correctly. And also, I think some of these names were made up.

Here we go. Thank you, Martin, and Katie Mermaid in the Du Boing Quid Duo. I'm pretty sure that's not a name. A Tiffany Wise Hunt. A Star Wolf. Liam and Devin, Alicia Welter, and Frederica LaFleche, and Michelle Ptojack, or Jayjack, John Baker, Cara, you, you serria, Serea, Berks, and Juno, and chicken on a taco. I actually think that's a restaurant here in the mall.

Andrew Rokton, Lone, James Wilson, Alyssa Harrod, Todd, S.C., I'm guessing that's like an afternoon, maybe super cool, wacky. Al-Qaeda, Chris Earl Cave, Chris Sterling, Flora Thapa, Nico underscore forgot, Whitney Lang, Toby, A.T. Banton. Kelly Phillip. Hey, I remember her. Jason Woods. Great Coomert.

Janine Christensen. Ian T. Duncan. Rum. Ashley Fisher. Kind of like Fisher Price, am I right, Katie Toy Store Stug? If you're out there, this next one, Fleetwood Macs Sex Pants, or April. Do I get a choice? I choose the first one.

Jasmine F. Rosie McCrack. Jackie Lowy. Tara, the Bull. That's so scary. We'll have to keep you out of the mall's china shop. Chris Martin. Sierra not from Arkansas.

Abigail Trimmy. Charles, a one Q D, P, R, and Joy. That sounds like a license plate. Mahina! They've got a question mark at the end of their name. St. Currard Madden, Aaron Murphy, Jacob M. Kirkland C.D.

Jennifer Porath. Angie Carlson, Grimlock, Jacob Lambert, Shiloh, Jaystew, Fire Bull, XL Fy. X-L-5, Kat Carruthers, Olly Turner Ward, Rooney Friend, Lisa Smith, Kimberly Pritchard, Raleigh Samson, Dan Remus, I love it, these nature are getting a pretty novel, Daniel Donnelly, Megan, Mighty, Lexi, Arrow, Trim, that's not normal, Michelle Dubio, Kyle K, Logan Hawks, Eddie Gonzalez, Josephine Johnston, Haven Kennedy, Kimbler, Kimberly Newman, Kimberly Newman, and

Stacy Thuisse, or Thuess, or Sarah Good, a Beatrice Von Page, B. Kerrne, a Sarah Turner. I'm liking it, all these names are pretty... Wait, what's this? A chicken nugget, Lex? That's not a real name, I don't think. Laura Torres, Will Parsons, Pinker was here. Kuh, there, Kiara Pelagi. A name... Ninja Dei...

Egypt today. Morgan King, Canopy, Mason Bernier, Dylan Wieslow, John Hanley, Bell Jacobs, a Lion Heart 0,91. That sounds like a Yahoo email address. Olive Love Virgo, and my always a zero. Tess Buckley, Mallory, Peremba, Robert Olivierie. I swear this is going to be over soon. Now so soon. Return to send it. What? Delta Johnson, Christine Lerun, let me see here, Uloa, the flying spaghetti monster? Gordon Deweiss, Henry Runky, Alan Greenwood, Matthew L. Duffy, Redaughts, Tomoggy, Jim, Amelia Bramstein, Gira Cat Lady, Katie, Beth Begarth, Glenn Sager, Petticoast, Swach, Swachl, Russell, Casey McCullough, High David R. Now it's Dave R, I'm sorry, Dave.

You gave me your name, Dave, and I call to David, and Dave is probably more informal, which implies that we are closer friends than what we would be otherwise. Sharon Vauplinski, Tchaise, or Tricaz, or Courtney and Megan, Sarah Farmer and her Prismaric Chickens. Marcellus Moore, Chachogham's, Sarah Wilkins, Courtney, Bruce, Casey, Lily, Mey, Lily, Mingwasser, Muppet, Silas, some people tell me I sound like the Muppet.

Eric Kanssen, Takeda Mockingbird, Travis R. Hayman, Adam Wilson, Lily, Corey Donchot, Kiara Googie Barnthaler, James Smith, Teresa Smith, Cottrell Lindblum, Coe Salsberger, Rhino, Kora, David Livingston, Livingston, Trinkett Corley, Brameter, Nova, Pippin, Daniel, Ryan Shapiro, Naomi Costley, there's a holy nail dress there, I'm not giving it out, D.K., Ted Csson, Sison, Darsie Bone, a cure of a mermaid, she may have come by him and come back. Lex Cochran, Shelly Schrode, wandering Epi, Kate Hopkins, GMC, Tim Bownie, Dolores, Dolores, Squares Snap, Lauren Northrop, K.L. Jennifer Cooper, Aaron T. Grohl, Julie Rodriguez, Alvarez, Mikey, Amanda Robinson, Joe Storm, Burun Mali Sadil, Eddie Tibbs, Harry Fish Nuts.

Oh, come on. Saviore Omo. Amanda Hugging Kiss. I forget that reference. King Humble. If you're so humble, why do you call yourself King? Shireo, Micah Collins Kamopopo Kamopopi Abigail Wachinu on ride And listen

If you'd like to join Club 86 Just visit a communication station And go to patreon.com Forrestes You'll get exclusive episodes And early episodes And audio commentary

If that's the kind of thing you like to spend your money on I prefer to spend my money on laser tech because I freaking love laser tag. Okay, please go back to shopping now. The Fable and Falling Network, where fiction producers flourish.

The town of Milton may seem normal at first glance. But beyond the quaint surface, the shadows are cursed, and the expansive woods surrounding town are forbidden. They call it the void, and nobody comes back a lot. You're heading straight for the void! Don't feel like you have to go with me.

Founded to be a secluded oasis, Milton finds itself anything but that. Milton lives suspended in time, trapped by a darkness that seems to be creeping closer and closer. Does it suck that you live here with no way out? Sure, but it's safe? The void has kept in bay.

Is it, though? There are legends, though, of a mysterious former resident that knows a way through the void. You ever hear about the guide? Join three friends as they embark on an epic journey into the heart of darkness.

He's coming for you While the characters of the void may be fictional You might find yourself confronting your own reality And those things that bind you The Void Wherever you get your podcasts This is just the beginning