maskormenace | [04] Voice

[ So even though the feed opens up, Walt doesn't talk for a moment or so. There's a sharp inhale and it's accompanied by a piteous cough. And then after a couple minute pause, he starts talking -- sounding rather relaxed. ]

Today was my birthday.

[ A beat. Nonchalant. ]

But it's also my death anniversary. How many people can say that? Their life came a full and complete circle, starting and ending all on the same day? I mean, what are the chances? Pretty crazy, that.

[ Another brief pause. Another follow up cough. When he speaks, his voice is a little strained. ]

I mean like, this whole world. What an insane concept, right? To think that our own individual worlds are just this tiny fraction of all the different worlds out there -- some with crazy powers or vampires or Satan. We have Satan. Does anyone ever stop to think about that? How Satan has a TV show? I mean, I guess...what a better way to say welcome to hell than Satan with his own TV show. I've never actually watched it, mind. But I imagine it probably involves burning people alive.

But following that thought -- I still think this place is hell. I mean, I can't be the only dead guy walking here, can I? And it's definitely not heaven. My therapist called it purgatory once.

[ A beat. ]

Purgatory is kind of accurate. Sometimes he knows what he's talking about. All of us just sitting here and waiting -- to either go home and die for good or to do whatever it is we do here. I mean, we can't die. There's a definite statistical likelihood that we come back to life if we get killed, so do we age? I'm 53 today, but am I not really 53? Am I eternally 52 until I die again? Do I die again? Or do I just live an endless loop of my life -- dying, coming here, dying coming here until some otherworldly being makes up their mind?

Maybe that's what Satan's show is about. Collecting as many of us that belong in hell and dragging us back with him. That's a pretty morbid thought, isn't it?

[ So why is Walt laughing. Why is Walt laughing like it's the most hilarious thing in the world? Why is he laughing at all? What was he laughing at again?

The laughter dies. ]

What was I talking about again? [ But it's lost. ] Anyway, I just want to know. Is there anyone else out there who died? Bonus if you died on your birthday. Might be good to talk about it. Therapeutic. And I'm here to listen. We can talk here or in person. If anyone wants to go with me to get birthdeath day breakfast for dinner, that could be a thing. That we do.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[Wait till you hear how old he was when he killed Granny.]

Thirty-four is the milestone you are looking for, I believe. And thank you for that comparison. Does my age really amaze you?

Edited 2015-09-10 01:09 (UTC)

At times you seem even older than me.

[ Which isn't hard because Walt is a big manchild. ]

I mean, do you even have any fun? Apart from making people scream in terror. Do you have any hobbies or watch any television shows?

Mr. White, I am certain you're aware that is a personal question. For what reason are you asking?

[Why do you need to know?]

I'm just making conversation. Is that a crime now?

Not in the least.

I just don't believe in putting everything on show. There is more to class than flashing cash and expensive clothes. Knowledge is power, so they say.

It almost seems like you don't believe in putting anything on display. You'll always be a mystery to the men and women of this world. But the one thing I admire about you is how little you care about what others think about you.

Well, is that so? Then I believe you know my answer to that response, Mr. White. I'm not someone who cares about the trivial things. It's not in my nature. But don't worry, I won't be broadcasting the secrets of your mystery for all to hear. It just doesn't fascinate me.

They've really been going to town on you -- exposing everything they know about you, haven't they? The other imPorts, I mean.

Strong minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, weak minds discuss people.

I do not care what those others say or do or think. If their lives are so boring that they need to discuss mine, that's their problem.

[He's used to people gossiping about him behind his back. Everyone does it. Stupid idiots.]

Well some discussion about people is necessary. When one is trying to find out information. When one is trying to find out the best way to hurt someone else. When that person is Will Graham.

[ Yeah. Walt is pretty mad at Will. ]

Well. You have two options.

First, you can hope Hannibal Lecter is brought to our little community and enjoy the show. One wouldn't need to lift a finger. Second, you can ask yourself what that man would do. How has he hurt Will Graham? Ensured his machinations dispossessed him of his liberty? His sanity? Or... used Abigail Hobbs as a pawn, perhaps?

Hannibal and I are nothing alike from my understanding of the man. It's unlikely I could personally accomplish the same sorts of feats he has when it comes to Will Graham's mind. I'm not....classically trained the way you and Chilton are. And when it comes to Will, I have more of a tendency to lose my head than approach him calmly.

[ A frustrating thing because Walt is certain that's what Will is counting on. ]

If I go after anyone he's close to, he will kill me. I don't have the same sort of liberties Hannibal Lecter does. The only one I can rely on manipulating would be Chilton himself -- I will get Chilton to cut Will out of his life once and for all.

You are frightened of death. Perhaps the pain of dying? Mr. White, you are misguided. Death in this world is temporary. You cannot die - you can do anything you like to Will and the technology the porter has given our bodies shall bring you back to the land of the living.

Though, perhaps not quite the same as you were. Either way, I am sure you'll put on quite the show.

[04] Voice

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