"Are you afraid of anything?" I asked abruptly. As soon as the words left my mouth, I realized how juvenile they sounded.
"Emotions wouldn't serve any function for me. So, no."
Relieved that my question had been humored, I continued.
"That's probably true. Do you believe that emotions are evolutionary for us-- I mean, people-- in order to preserve our well-being? In order to avoid meeting you for as long as possible?"
My guest tilted their head. A pause punctuated the silence before the answer came.
"Ignoring the fact that emotions are primarily a human function, yes. But they are able to be mastered, like many other skills. So I would refrain from pairing them with 'evolution'."
I frowned. "So you think that emotions will eventually become less useful? I'm not sure I understand."
For the first time during our game, Death drew a breath before answering.
"I think that it's important for people to ponder mortality. To understand the transience of life. To struggle with the idea of finality, whatever their belief system may be. It sometimes gives them a greater appreciation for life. I wouldn't presume to speak for all of you, but it seems often under-appreciated amongst your peers."
"Have you spent time think about it? For you?" I countered.
I could almost sense amusement rumbling from across the board. But there was no sound and no movement. Only an echoing retort.
"Of course. Eventually, some day, everything alive will no longer be. And then, neither will I. I'm just a concept, like anything else. "
I tried to be un-incredulous.
"And you accept it that easily?"
The air went brittle.
"Of course. What other reasonable alternative is there? I try to state it simply-- for your benefit-- because it's really rather simple. Any other reaction to cessation of existence is futile, and likely a handicap to your ability to live fully and well. Now. It's your play. Please place, or pass."
I had no reply. Instead, I tried to focus on my next placement, while feeling childish and unwise.
10:23 p.m. - 2014-12-29
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