In the Fallout Universe: Where Were the Bodies of the Dead Put in Vault Terminals?
The Fallout universe is filled with fascinating and often macabre details, especially concerning the post-nuclear world. One intriguing aspect is the handling of deceased individuals within the Vault terminals. In this exploration, we delve into the methods and reasons behind the disposal of bodies in these mysterious and sealed environments.
Incinerators and Vault Design
Several Vault terminals contain references to incinerators, which are strategically positioned near the reactor rooms for logistical reasons. These installations serve a dual purpose: ensuring the quick disposal of remains and maintaining the stability and health of the enclosed communities.
For instance, in Vault 101, bodies were cremated. This practice aligns with the need to prevent the spread of disease and the maintenance of hygiene, particularly in a confined space where resources are limited.
Fallout 3: The Last Poem Challenge
The poem received by a child in Fallout 3 provides a haunting and detailed insight into the fate of the deceased. The final verse reads:
"Larva to pupa, pupa to worker. Buzz buzz! One with the steel honeycomb. 10 lies within the 101, significant at last. Till gray seeps from walls to hair to soul. Then eternal slumber, the sweet sleep of incineration."
This verse strongly suggests that the deceased are cremated, aligning with the incinerator references found in other Vault terminals. The imagery of 'gray seeping from walls to hair to soul' depicts the sorrow and eventual acceptance of the deceased's fate as a contributor to the Vault's operation.
Uniformity in Other Vaults
Given the consistent features across various Vault terminals, it is reasonable to assume that the method of body disposal is similar or uniform. Providing simple cremation facilities is more efficient and practical compared to complex recycling systems. By using incineration, the Vault administrators could manage the disposal of bodies without requiring additional space or resources.
For other Vaults that function for a shorter period or have different experimental purposes, alternative methods might be employed, but incineration remains a common and reliable solution. The implementation of such facilities in Vault 101 suggests that the practice is not limited to a 10th of the time but is a standard procedure within the Vault system.
Conclusion and Future Exploration
The handling of the deceased in Vault terminals is a critical part of understanding the unique challenges and solutions faced by the inhabitants of the Fallout universe. Cremation, through the incinerators, serves as a means to maintain hygiene, prevent disease, and preserve the stability of the sealed communities. Future explorations of the Fallout series, including related modding communities and fan discussions, may reveal even more insights into these mysterious structures and their operations.