Episode 68 - Blackbeard's Ghost

FADE IN: INT. HEAVY RADIO STUDIO - NIGHT ERIC and MARCO are sitting in front of microphones in a dimly lit room with posters of heavy metal bands on the walls. They are recording their podcast, "Heavy Radio," and are discussing their favorite heavy metal bands. ERIC (into microphone) Alright, so we've talked about Metallica, Slayer, and Iron Maiden. What's next? MARCO (into microphone) I think it's time we talk about Blackbeard. ERIC (into microphone) Blackbeard? MARCO (into microphone) Yeah, man. Blackbeard was a badass pirate who sailed the seas in the early 18th century. And, as legend has it, his ghost still haunts the oceans today. ERIC (into microphone) That's pretty metal. Alright, let's hear it. Suddenly, there is a gust of wind, and BLACKBEARD'S GHOST materializes in the studio. He's a grizzled, spectral figure with a long beard and tattered clothes. BLACKBEARD'S GHOST (arrogantly) Ahoy, mates. I couldn't help but overhear your discussion of me. ERIC and MARCO are initially frightened but then realize who it is. ERIC (into microphone) Holy shit, it's Blackbeard's ghost! MARCO (into microphone) Welcome to Heavy Radio, Blackbeard. What brings you here? BLACKBEARD'S GHOST (settling in) Well, boys, I've been roaming the seas for centuries, and I've seen a lot of things. But I have to say, this Heavy Radio Podcast is the coolest thing I've ever come across. ERIC and MARCO look at each other in disbelief. ERIC (into microphone) Really? You think so? BLACKBEARD'S GHOST (nodding) Aye, I do. Your passion for heavy metal is inspiring. In my day, we didn't have anything like this. MARCO (into microphone) So, Blackbeard, what was it like being a pirate? BLACKBEARD'S GHOST (smirking) Well, it was a life of adventure, danger, and rebellion. And, of course, there was plenty of rum. ERIC (into microphone) That sounds pretty metal to us. BLACKBEARD'S GHOST (laughing) Aye, it was. But let me tell you, boys, nothing compares to the feeling of sailing the high seas with a crew of loyal pirates by your side. MARCO (into microphone) We can only imagine. BLACKBEARD'S GHOST (grinning) But enough about me. Let's get back to the music. What bands are you guys into? ERIC and MARCO launch into a discussion of their favorite heavy metal bands, and BLACKBEARD'S GHOST nods along, occasionally offering his own opinions. The conversation continues for a while until it's time for the ghost to depart. BLACKBEARD'S GHOST (rising) Well, boys, it's been a pleasure. Keep the heavy metal alive. ERIC (into microphone) We will, Blackbeard. Thanks for hanging out with us. BLACKBEARD'S GHOST disappears in a gust of wind, leaving ERIC and MARCO looking at each other in amazement. MARCO (into microphone) I can't believe we just had Blackbeard's ghost on our podcast. ERIC (into microphone) I know, man. This is going to be our best episode yet. FADE OUT.