A Simple Test

Flash Fiction February: Day 3

Image: Sumaid pal Singh Bakshi via Unsplash+

This is my entry for Flash Fiction February Day 3. You can find all of Week 1’s prompts here as they’re released.

Please enjoy…

---

Hi there,

If you’re reading this, then you’ve been selected for a simple test. Nothing crazy, and don’t worry, there’s no way to study for this one.

You either pass…

Or you don’t.

Just think of this like a game. Have fun with it! It’s really simple stuff, so try not to stress it.

Now, you’re probably wondering how or why we’ve chosen you specifically.

I realize this looks like your standard Substack post, but I assure you, it’s not.

Only viable test subjects can see this post, so if you’re reading this, then congratulations! You passed the first test.

That one’s easy, though. The next ones won’t be.

Test #2: Observation

For our next test, I want you to take a look at the image below:

Now, using the poll beneath this, tell me what you saw:

You’re probably wondering if you passed. From here on out, you won’t know if you passed until the end.

Don’t worry, we’ll explain. In the meantime, just keep playing the game. You’re doing great!

Test #3: Perception

Our next test will assess your hearing capabilities. Keep in mind, this isn’t about how well you can hear. No, this is about how deeply you can hear.

You see, some test subjects will click these audio samples below and hear nothing. If that’s you, then unfortunately you’re not who we’re looking for.

However, if you click on these snippets and hear something? Well…

That’s a very good sign!

Now, without further delay, please play the following three samples one at a time:

All set? Okay, if you heard something on any of these (or ideally, all three), then please move on to the next test.

Test #4: Immersion

Image: Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash

For this next test, I want you to find a story or poem that you’ve written. Something you’re proud of. This is important, it needs to be something you feel a strong connection with.

Got it? Okay, pull it up on your screen. A different tab is fine.

Find a line that stands out to you. It can be dialogue, prose, anything you’d like.

Now, say that line out loud.

Again.

Once more.

Good.

Now, close your eyes for thirty seconds and think about that world you created. Come back here when you’re done.

Now, did you hear, see, feel, touch, or taste anything when your eyes were shut? Something related to that world?

Use the poll below to answer, and be honest. We’ll know if you’re lying.

Let’s move on to the final test.

Test #5: Projection

Image: Elshan Neymatov via Unsplash+

Okay, one more audio test. Please grab a pair of headphones and listen to the audio below. Follow the instructions exactly.

We have provided audio transcripts here as well if you’d like to read it out loud yourself. It MUST be either listened to or read out loud.

---

[MUSIC PLAYS]

This is a meditation exercise. One that will call attention to points of stress and tension in the body.

Focus on your breathing. Take a deep breath over the course of six seconds. Hold it for three seconds, and then spend six seconds letting it out.

[PAUSE FOR BREATHING]

Notice how the air travels into and out of your body. Imagine it flowing like a river through your airways.

Now, focus on the world that lies beyond the veil of your understanding. The one you’ve always known was there.

Do not panic. Remain calm.

Remember to breath. Do your breathing exercises again.

[PAUSE FOR BREATHING]

Good. That’s good.

You have now crossed into another realm.

You have left your body behind.

Say: “I have left my body behind.”

Good.

Take caution in this realm. Travel with fellow Soulwalkers to ensure safety in numbers.

Do not try to take anything back with you.

When you are ready to return to your world, simply remove your headphones.

This concludes our meditation exercise.

---

Now, I know that was a lot. That’s assuming you experienced anything at all.

Did you? Remember, tell the truth.

We’ll know if you’re lying.

A Final Note

Image: Pete Pedroza via Unsplash

This concludes your test. To learn more about the Art of Soulwalking, please see this post.

If you are, in fact, a Soulwalker, then you will hear from us soon. If you are not, then this post will disappear and you won’t be able to find it again.

If you’re unsure, do not worry.

We will find you if you’re one of us.

---

Here’s Your Musical Pairing

Thank you for your participation. Please enjoy this musical pairing below as a thank you for your time. Please note, this is not part of the test.