Snippets of a mind

The Reaper needs a hug

Death and the Grim Reaper meet on an intersection in the abyss, shadows roaming in the far distance.

Death: it's rare to see you wandering here, don't you usually take the higher routes?

Reaper: It's rather urgent. A bigger group, down at Verdun. I believe you came from there just now.

Death: Oh, indeed. The humans made a mess of it. Take good care of them, will you? Their souls are more distressed than usual; it's not a good day to die.

Reaper: They will be safe with me, don't worry too much, my scythe is freshly sharpened. I just wish the shadows were calmer today.

Death: I wish I could help you with the work you do, dear friend. I miss the old days, back when we could wander the abyss together to reap and collect the souls. To guide them as friends rather than you having to haste and clean up the chaos I leave you with.

Reaper: So do I, dearest. I was promised aid not too long ago, however I have my doubts about it ever happening. Who would want to carry out a work like mine? There are none but disadvantages; always a step behind Death herself, the overly repetitive explanation of the journey through the abyss and the journey itself. Not to mention the prejudice and fear that made a home in the mind of humans for they do not know the difference between us.

Death: You make me worried for you, old friend.

Reaper: How do you mean?

Death: Do not get me wrong, you still look as terrific as you always did; your mind is, what worries me. You seem to wither just as all things I touch and I can feel my concern grow at each word you say. You take good care of the souls you guide, yet I cannot shake the impression you forget to take care of yourself.

A few moments of silence as they both stare into the abyss

Reaper: You might be right in those assumptions. I tend to forget about myself the more time my work requires. However, I am unsure as to how to change these things as my occupation demands all my time as of lately.

Death: I will see to it, don't you worry. I will find a way to bring more joy to this tideous and one-sided life you live. One cannot say no to death and if they dare, I have my ways to make them comply.

They hug before each going their own ways, lost in thought.