【SCENES】 The Last Train

[starrystoryteller]

so you went and died

CW: Death, Afterlife, Discussions of Mortality

You wake to the sound of a train on tracks. The sound is quiet and the train's shaking is very faint, with only the occasional bump along the tracks. Opening your eyes, you find yourself sitting in an old fashioned train car. The seats and flooring are all made of wood. Outside of the window, you can see stars and galaxies sailing by. The interior of the car is completely empty and devoid of any other passengers. Looking around, you'll see that there isn't any luggage: Not even your own. Then, upon looking ahead again, you'll find that you are no longer alone.

A young girl sits in the seat opposite you. Her long white hair sparkles like starlight and her purple eyes seem to reflect galaxies. She slowly lifts her spacial gaze to meet your eye, smiling calmly as she says:

"I see... So you died?"

❤

Comments

[notyourstop]

Yes. Alone in a physical sense... But that does not mean that I cannot hear her. I'm sure you're to soon meet her yourself. At that time, please do not fear her. She can help you.

[The train's intercom dings and a voice calls out calmly: "Next Stop: The City of Stars."

The Conductor hums softly as she lifts her head to the noise.]

If you're to remember, then please... Do not speak of my train lightly. I do not wish to see any of you here, you understand? I do not know when one of you will board my train and accidentally give up your ticket, you know? If you desire a conversation with me, then find my sister. She will rely the message.

Though I truly am content to sit in silence. Too many times now, I have seen the entire population of that world cram itself onto the train at once. It's been stressful, true, but certainly given me an appreciation for the sound of silence.

[bluemackerel]

I see. If there's anything to keep an eye out for with her, feel free to tell me before I depart...

[Dazai nods.]

I'm a man who usually plays his cards close to his chest unless absolutely necessary. I'll make sure no one boards lightly. And...you won't see me again. For a while.

But I'll send messages. Even if you like silence, you've been enjoyable company.

[notyourstop]

You as well. I'm sure that my sister will also delight in your company.

She walks a train track on the lowest level of your city... Around and around in her own loop, waiting for someone curious enough to free her. With her help, you will be able to leave the city and visit the Forest of Spirits. Solve their loneliness, before they are enticed by a Rumor.

May I ask that much?

[bluemackerel]

[A train track on the lowest level...the Forest of Spirits...]

You may. And I will oblige.

It's the least I can do, really.

[He's taking note of this. He can't tell Atsushi the exacts, he can't tell Fauna the exacts...they'd both freak out and couldn't keep secrets. Chuuya and Oda would chastise him. Akutagawa, though....maybe.]

[notyourstop]

I thank you.

[The intercom speaks up again as the trains' wheels squeal to a stop:

"Arriving at... the City of Starsand. Please exit the train in an orderly fashion."

Perhaps a silly request, as only Dazai is here to leave the train. The doors open and the platform is pitch black.]

You had best not linger, Osamu Dazai. I'm running out of things to say... Please, be more careful next time. Ah. And though you may wake-up alive and well, you're likely to feel weak for the next few hours. Mind your health.

[bluemackerel]

[Dazai rises from his seat as the train stops, adjusting his coat.]

I promise. You won't have to look after me for a while. [Then he turns towards the exit.] Thank you for your assistance, Conductor. I'll mind my health and keep this meeting in mind.

I'll see you...whenever fate decides to have us meet once more. [He waves behind him as he leaves, strolling back out to the city of Starsand.]