In the Lives of Puppets

by T.J. Klune

FOR HUMANITY: You kinda suck, but you invented books and music, so the universe will probably keep you around for a little bit longer. You got lucky. This time.

“Because all beings deserve a chance to find out what life could be when they don’t have to serve others.”

“What about me?” Rambo asked. Nurse Ratched bumped into him gently. “You have the most important job of all. If the need arises, you will sacrifice yourself so the rest of us can escape.” “Yes!” Rambo cried. “I have purpose!”

“Yes. Victor is happy. His oxytocin levels are rising, but they have yet to reach the level of arousal, so do not worry about him trying to insert himself inside of you. Ha, ha, just kidding. He will not do that.” Vic tried to pull away, but Hap didn’t let him go, continuing to pat his back. “Why would he put anything inside me? What is arousal?”

“I did say that. But this is not that kind of insertion. They would not know how to treat a lady such as myself.” Then, strangely, “They are not prepared for this gelatin.”

only know how to be who I am now, and to be someone else entirely would just mess with my circuitry.”

“In all my days, in all my travels, I’ve never come across a more foolish bunch. And I think it fits. Humans were foolish. Careless. Cruel. But only a few. Most were full of light.”

“There was a man who lived long ago, a philosopher called Socrates. He believed that happiness comes not from bodily pleasures or wealth or power, but from living a life that’s right for your soul.”

“Now it is your turn. Say something that will make me feel better.” “We’re going to be crate buddies!” Nurse Ratched’s screen filled with a frowning face. “I want to go back to the forest.”

“Most unfortunate, in the lives of puppets, there is always a ‘but’ that spoils everything.

And then Dad hugged him back. “I like this,” he said quietly. “I like this quite a lot. Can we do it again?” Vic trembled. “Anytime you want.”