The Advocate
An Epic Beginning
“So, why should I agree to this?” I'd actually expected something more profound when I opened my mouth, but then again, it wasn't every day you spoke face to face with Old Scratch, himself. Short, grossly overweight, filthy and clad only in spandex briefs, his current appearance wasn't exactly inspiring confidence.
“Okay, look. I can see this version of me isn't the one you would have chosen for this visit. All those other personas are 'in my closet,' so to speak. The thing is, when I want to work really closely with someone, I want them to see the real me. Moobs and all. I coined that term, by the way, just so you know.”
“I can appreciate that – I think. Still, what's in this for me? I'm already a writer.”
“And a very influential one, which is why I chose you. Your work is persuasive, and that's exactly what my advocate needs. I'm going to multiply that persuasiveness a thousand times. People will do what you suggest. How about we give you a 7-figure salary and a 20-hour work week? And a guarantee that you won't serve time with me in the afterlife? Oh, and you don't need a suit, or wings or any of that, because you can work remotely – wherever you want. You'll get emails from my staff with outlines for every project and instructions on posting them. Just meet the deadlines!
And of course, you'll need a pseudonym. How about a good “superhero” name? Let's borrow one from the old church: “Advocatus!”
I always did like Latin. What's a starving writer to do?
“Where do I sign?”
***
Another entry for the Epic Beginnings Challenge:
Thanks for reading this weird little tale! Comments and feedback are always appreciated.
About the Creator
Dana Crandell
Dad, Stepdad, Grandpa, Husband, lover of Nature and dogs.
Poet, Writer, Editor, Photographer, Artist
My poetry collection: Life, Love & Ludicrosity
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The Righter
Mike was still too flabbergasted to think straight. He led a boring, nondescript life, worked a boring job as a convenience store clerk, and had no significant impact on the world around him. Why would he, of all people be given this opportunity? And why had they all just shown up at the store?
By Dana Crandellabout a year ago in Fiction
Comments (9)
😲 This was spooky good!
So clever and creative, Dana! And a very engrossing read! Quite a tempting offer
Clever, yet there has to be a catch. Watch out buddy.
I mean.... I'd take the deal but amend it so I could do my own content. 😅 I just wonder what the catch is....
I'm just sure there's a catch here. If it looks too good to be true...
Ha! That made me think if I'd sign for a cushioned job like that. There was a 2003 movie that is based on this idea, titled Shortcut to Happiness.
What a deal! One can dream...
"I coined that term" LOL Great story. (You shoulda declined the position, though!) Seriously, this is a great story, Dana!
"moobs" haha. okay, I'm in. that 20 hour work week and the afterlife thing sold me.