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

But are you open to the possibility? If it does happen?

[ His tone is curious, wondering. He certainly didn't expect to find anyone who would ever compare to Skyler in this world. Though with that thought... ]

And imagine you're married to someone back home. Just imagine it. Do you consider it cheating to take on another sexual partner during your time here?

I'm too busy for something serious so it wouldn't be fair to the person who expressed an interest.

[ Which was partially the truth. Her main focus had been on her store and getting it to run smoothly. ]

In technical terms, it is cheating. But if you're in an unhappy marriage? Separated from them? When you leave this place, it's likely that your memory will get wiped so you wouldn't remember being with someone other than your spouse.

People are weak sometimes. They get lonely.

It's true...

[ There's a long pause before: ]

Hell. My wife cheated on me even before this mess of living in a different world. At least I have something of an excuse.

[ Faintly amused. ]

This world. It sure is something, isn't it?

Perfect excuse to shag anyone you like really.

[ Bela isn't going to judge. Not one bit. ]

And yeah, this world has a lot to say for itself. But I also believe that it also rests on the people who make up this world. Heroes and villains alike. They play a part in shaping it.

Do you like it? I mean, does it suit your needs? This world isn't for everyone. But for some, apparently it's a great place.

I've been reminded that it's even akin to paradise for those who come from worlds that are worse.

I don't hate it. There are a few positive aspects to this place and I won't deny that.

If I'm being honest, I hate the things that can happen here. Like fear gas attacks. [Thanks for nothing, Crane.]

My world is full of supernatural evil and yet I've managed to make it work in my favour.

You do seem like a very resourceful woman, Bela. One who can make many things work in her favor.

I imagine this world or your own, you do very well for yourself.

You have no idea just how good I am.

But thanks all the same. I like it when people say such nice things about me.

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