February 28, 2023 • 33 mins
A sad and strange tale about a huntsman who tries to save two children from a coven of witches.
On a hunt to kill the most dangerous coven in the mountains, a huntsman comes across two children running from the very witches he seeks. Choosing to be their protector, he must now find a way to escort them back home without falling victim to The Sisters Five.
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Episode Transcript
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Alabaster Catz (00:01):
Good evening, I'm Alabaster Catz. And it's
time to tell another tale in thedark
Welcome to the show. A Huntsmanis defined as one who hunts,
(00:23):
especially one who hunts foxes.
What makes this interesting isthat foxes are notoriously
difficult to catch. They concealthemselves, travel great
distances, and don't move instraight lines. And when they
sense that they're being hunted,they backtrack, circle around
and disguise their scent.
(00:48):
Ironically, to avoid beingcaught, foxes employ the same
misdirection that the huntsmanuses to catch them. And that
brings us to tonight's story. Toanswer a simple question, how do
you know if you are the fox orthe Huntsman? So join me as we
(01:09):
traipse through the sad and thestrange and follow a huntsman
who helps two children that arebeing hunted by the very witches
he hunts. Once again, it's timeto grab a drink, dim the lights
and blend in with the shadowsThe show's about to begin.
(01:55):
The Sisters FiveBy Alabaster Catz
Innkeeper (02:30):
Hello! Welcome stranger. Come in, come in. Have
a seat. Here you go. A pint ofthis and you'll be warmer than a
witch on Sunday. So, are you newto the mountain are just passing
through. Oh, Just in time. She'sabout to start.
Bard (02:49):
All appers well when the eastern wind blows. Safe behind
doors with fires aglow. When outof the dark comes a wrap at your
(03:17):
door from the presence ofsomething that wasn't before. Be
still my little darlings throughthe keyhole you spy and gaze at
(03:47):
the shadows dancing awry. Raiseup your arm and slide back the
latch. Ignoring the sound of thewalls that we scratch. Now give
(04:17):
me your hand on adventure we'llgo. Where nothing that moves
lies under the snow. Wherenothing that moves lies under
(04:44):
the snow. All appears well whenthe eastern wind blows. Silent
and empty when fires turn cold.
When splinters of wood, theyswing from your door. From the
(05:14):
presence of something thatwasn't before. Be still my
little darlings your beds havegone cold. Where nothing remains
(05:41):
but stories of old. Raise yourarms and pray you survive. Don't
open the door to the dreadSisters Five. Now give me your
(06:10):
hand and together we'll go wherenothing that moves lies under
the snow. Where nothing thatmoves lies under the snow.
Innkeeper (06:44):
Ah, the Eulogy of Snow. Never was there a more
dark and beautiful song. Thereisn't a soul in the mountain
that doesn't know it. Why, justthe other day I uh... wait,
don't tell me you've never heardof the Sisters Five? Well, it's
not wise to speak of themloosely but I can't in good
(07:05):
conscience leave you without atleast sharing the tale. It's not
just a story, mind you. It'salso a warning. You see, a long
time ago, there was ahuntsman...
Alabaster Catz (07:23):
Safe behind doors with fire is a glow. These
were the thoughts of thehuntsman as he sat on his horse
and gazed down the mountain atthe village below. Wisps of
smoke rose from chimneys likesouls departing the dead. There
were no merchants selling in thesquare, nor children playing in
(07:43):
the streets. No farmersgathering wheat nor skinner's
tanning fur. The store roomswere full, the woodpiles were
stocked, and all who hoped tosee next spring, were locked
away in the safety of theirhomes. All except the Huntsman.
For only he, a man paid in gold,would set out into the darkness
(08:07):
to kill that which lives there.
A cold wind blew from the eastas the huntsman pulled his furs
tighter around his shoulders. Hechecked his crossbow for frost,
and the potions on his belt forice. Then with an eye to the
dying sun, he tapped his heelsand urged his horse into the
(08:27):
forest.
It had snowed the night before,covering the ground in a blanket
of white. Any sign thatsomething had passed, was long
buried beneath it. However, thiswas of little concern to the
(08:47):
Huntsman, for he knew that whathe was tracking was not required
to set foot on the ground.
Venturing deeper into the woods,he continued his search until
only the moon was left to lighthis way. It was then that the
huntsman dismounted to procurethe flint and tinder for his
(09:08):
torch that he heard a rustlingin the bushes. Whipping around,
he raised his crossbow andcalled out to the night.
Devlin (09:18):
Show yourself!
Alabaster Catz (09:19):
He demanded.
A moment later the bushes partedand out crept a little boy and a
little girl. The Huntsman lookedthem over with a keen eye and
noticed that the boy's hair hadbeen crudely cut, and that his
muddied clothes were a size toolarge. As for the girl, her hair
was a tangled mass, and she waswrapped in the tattered remains
(09:42):
of an old dress. Both werefilthy and lacerated with
scratches. It didn't take longfor the huntsman to conclude
that they were running fromsomething.
Devlin (09:52):
Step into the light.
Alabaster Catz (09:54):
He pressed.
The boy glanced at theHuntsman's belt where a large
knife glistened in thetortchlight. Lowering his
crossbow, the huntsman smiled.
Devlin (10:03):
Be still boy, you have nothing to fear from me. What's
your name?
Reynard (10:08):
Raynard.
Alabaster Catz (10:09):
He answered.
Reynard (10:10):
And this is my sister, Lavinia.
Devlin (10:12):
Well met, Reynad. My name is Devlin. Tell me, why are
you alone in these woods?
Alabaster Catz (10:18):
Reynard moved closer with his sister's hand in
his.
Reynard (10:21):
we're being chased sir.
By a witch!
Alabaster Catz (10:24):
Devlin raised an eyebrow.
Devlin (10:25):
A witch, you say?
Reynard (10:27):
Yes sir. Will you help us?
Alabaster Catz (10:28):
Just then the shrill of a ghostly howl echoed
in the distance.
Devlin (10:37):
I see.
Alabaster Catz (10:38):
Devin said gravely.
Unknown (10:39):
You're fortunate to have found me for that is no
ordinary witch that hunts you.
She is called The Wild. Andshe's the first of the Sisters
Five.
Reynard (10:49):
The Sisters Five?
Devlin (10:51):
Yes. Separately, they are named, The Wild, The Fool,
Alabaster Catz (10:51):
Ask Reynard.
The Temptress, The Liar and TheMurderess. Five witches that
form the most dangerous coven inthe mountains.
Reynardswallowed the lump in his
throat.
Reynard (11:07):
How do you know so much about the Sisters Five?
Alabaster Catz (11:10):
Devlin shrugged.
Devlin (11:11):
I'm a huntsman. I was hired by the villagers to rid
them of this menace. However,given that I cannot hunt with
you by my side. I must nowchoose whether to leave you here
or escort you home.
Alabaster Catz (11:24):
The siblings exchanged nervous glances, and
Devlin chuckled.
Devlin (11:29):
I choose the latter of course.
Alabaster Catz (11:31):
Then the children smiled.
Devlin (11:33):
Now tell me. where's your home?
Reynard (11:35):
At an inn deep in the woods.
Devlin (11:37):
You mean the One Eyed Rabbit? I know of it. It's a
tiny place well known amongstHuntsmen, although I've never
been myself.
Reynard (11:47):
It's true.
Reynard added.
We're often visited by Huntsmen.
They've taught me how to readthe forest. Only, I seem to have
lost my way.
Alabaster Catz (11:57):
Devlin nodded.
Devlin (11:58):
The Wild uses her magic to move the trees, making it
easier to disorientate her prey.
But fear not, for all magic hasits tells. You just need to look
closely to see them.
Alabaster Catz (12:12):
Reaching into his pack, Devlin pulled out two
cloaks and tossed them to thechildren.
Devlin (12:17):
Here, put these on before you catch your death. We
will go on foot from here.
Alabaster Catz (12:23):
As the night drew on, Devlin lead Reynard and
Lavinia deeper into the shiftingforest. The Huntsman moved
through the woods with the easeof someone born to them. And
although the children wereyoung, they found themselves
struggling to keep up. It wasonly after Devlin had stopped
that Reynard realized somethingwas wrong.
Reynard (12:43):
What is it?
Alabaster Catz (12:44):
Whispered Reynard.
Devlin (12:45):
The Wild.
Alabaster Catz (12:46):
Answered Devlin.
Devlin (12:47):
She has found us.
Quickly we must hide.
Alabaster Catz (12:51):
Suddenly a shrieking howl erupted from the
trees and Devlin rushed thechildren down a small ravine.
Grabbing a leafy branch, hedragged it behind them to
conceal their footprints. Thenhe unbridled his horse and
removed his saddle.
Devlin (13:06):
Raynard, quick give me your cloak.
Alabaster Catz (13:09):
Doing as he was told, Reynard handed Devlin his
cloak and the Huntsman tied itaround his horse's neck. Then
with a slap to the hindquarters,the horse took off running.
Reynard (13:19):
What are you doing?
Alabaster Catz (13:20):
Asked Reynard.
Devlin (13:21):
Leaving a trail to follow. Now lie down and be
still.
Alabaster Catz (13:25):
The trio press their bodies against the snow
and within moments, anotherscreeching howl pierced the air.
Then slowly, the vision of awoman riding the frozen carcass
of a bear sauntered into view.
(13:47):
The Wild looked more beast thanhuman. Crouched on the bears
shoulders, she wore a wolf skullheaddress, a black fur cloak and
a leather loincloth. She archedher back to sniff the air and
when she did, her corpse blueskin glowed under the moonlight,
revealing the many tattooedsigils covering her body.
(14:09):
Commanding the bear forward, sheslowly circled the clearing
before stopping at the lip ofthe ravine. The forest fell
deathly silent. Devlin's musclestightened around his crossbow
and his hand drifted to hisknife. He glanced at Reynard,
who was shivering in the snow,but remained absolutely silent.
(14:30):
He could feel the unnatural coldof the bears paws, rolling down
his back like a thick fog. Andwith a snap of her neck, The
Wild turned her attention to thehorse's trail and grinned with a
mouthful of pointed teeth.
Clutching her bone staff, sheheld it overhead to part the
trees and the bear lurched afterthe Huntsman's horse.
(15:00):
For several moments, neitherDevlin nor the children moved.
It was only after hearing thecrows overhead that they emerged
from the ravine.
Devlin (15:11):
It's clear.
Alabaster Catz (15:12):
Said Devlin.
Devlin (15:13):
You can come up.
Alabaster Catz (15:15):
Helping the children to their feet. Devlin
took off his cloak and wrappedit around a shivering Reynard.
Devlin (15:21):
Well done, boy.Well done.
Alabaster Catz (15:23):
Raynard's lips curled into a smile.
Reynard (15:25):
Are we safe?
Alabaster Catz (15:26):
He asked chattering his teeth
Devlin (15:28):
For now, but we must keep moving. For not all witches
require scent in order to hunt.
Alabaster Catz (15:34):
Numb from both the snow and the encounter, the
children simply nodded andfollowed the huntsman deeper
into the forest.
The winter nights can be long inthe mountains, and while the
wind in the cold may bedangerous, every Huntsman knew
that it was the snow that wouldprove your undoing. Whatever
(15:57):
strength was gained from food orrest was always lost trudging
through the snow. Devlin knewthat Reynard and Lavinia were
more tired than they cared toadmit. By himself, he could have
pressed on. But with twochildren, he decided it was best
to set up camp for the night.
Retrieving the axe from hispack, he began to chop down
(16:18):
branches to build a shelter.
Devlin (16:24):
Reynard, can you make a fire?
Reynard (16:27):
Of course I can.
Alabaster Catz (16:28):
Devlin smiled.
Devlin (16:29):
Good lad.
Alabaster Catz (16:31):
Smiling back.
Reynard grabbed a rock and beganstripping a twig to make
kindling. Minutes later, thechildren were sitting under a
lean-to warming their hands bythe fire and watching Devlin
draw symbols in the snow with astick.
Reynard (16:45):
What are you doing?
Alabaster Catz (16:46):
Asked Reynard.
Devlin (16:48):
Creating a barrier.
These are called apotropaicsymbols. They repel witches so
long as they remain undisturbed.
Alabaster Catz (16:57):
Lavinia glanced into the darkness and clung to
Reynard's arm. Devlin kneltbeside her and smiled.
Devlin (17:03):
Fear not little one. Not everything that lives in the
dark is bad. There are goodwitches too.
Reynard (17:10):
Do the symbols keep them out as well?
Devlin (17:12):
No, but only because they require different symbols.
Reynard (17:16):
Really? Which ones?
Alabaster Catz (17:19):
Devlin paused before answering.
Devlin (17:22):
Snow angels.
Alabaster Catz (17:23):
He said grinning. Lavinia giggled.
Devlin (17:27):
Now then, no more talk of witches. Let's get some rest.
Alabaster Catz (17:32):
Smiling, Reynard and Lavinia climbed under their
blankets and drifted off tosleep.
In the quiet of midnight, Devlinawoke to the sound of jingling.
Grabbing his crossbow, hequickly rose to his feet and saw
(17:52):
Reynard standing at the edge ofthe barrier.
Devlin (17:55):
Reynard, what are you doing? Come away from there.
Alabaster Catz (17:58):
Reynard didn't respond.
Devlin (18:00):
Reynard?
Alabaster Catz (18:01):
Suddenly, a woman wearing a red and black
harlequin's garb stepped out ofthe darkness. Her face was
powder white, with eyes as redas her ruby grin. She wore
mismatched colored gloves withlong black fingernails and
slippers topped with tiny bells.
And on her head, a matching capwith two points curled like a
ram's horns. She slowlyapproached, pointing her toes
(18:24):
with each step befor stopping infront of Reynard. Then she
raised a throwing knife into theair and lowered it to the ground
in a deep theatrical bow.
Devlin (18:36):
The Fool
Alabaster Catz (18:37):
Shouted Devlin.
Devlin (18:39):
Reynard move out of the way!
Alabaster Catz (18:41):
But Reynard continued to watch in a dazed
stupor. The Fool frowned atDevlin and held the finger to
her lips requesting silence.
Then with a wave of her hand,the forest swelled with music
and she began to dance. Sheswayed and twirled like a
spinning top, dragging the knifealong her arms while darting in
(19:02):
and out of Devlin's crosshairs.
Then slowly, Reynard began tomimic her movements, lazily
lifting his limbs as if tied tostrings. He hopped in spun in
time with The Fool, and as hedid, he kicked away the symbols
that his feet. Devlin rushed toReynard's side and yanked him
(19:23):
away from the barrier. He aimedhis crossbow and fired, but The
Fool deftly tumbled backwards,avoiding the shot. Landing
gracefully on her feet, shetwirled the knife between her
fingers and grinned. Then with amagician's flair, she waved her
hand and procured four moreknives. Collecting them in a
fist, she tossed them overhead,juggling each one with ease as
(19:46):
she continued to dance. A momentlater, the music came to an
abrupt stop and the knivesfroze, suspended in air. She
flashed a look of feignedembarrassment as if her trick
had been revealed, only for hergrin to return behind the tips
of her fingers. Without warning,the knives turned to face
(20:06):
Lavinia and hurled themselves inher direction. Lavinia screamed,
and Devlin quickly grabbed hisfur bedding and tossed it into
the air. The knives sunkharmlessly into its folds and
fell to the ground. Then heturned to face the fool, but
only in time to see the glint ofmetal plunge into his shoulder.
(20:28):
Growling in pain, Devlin droppedhis crossbow and grabbed a
potion from his belt. He hurledit at the fool and it exploded
on the ground, kicking up asilver mist. However, when the
mist settled, The Fool was gone,leaving only the fading sound of
jingling in her wake.
(20:51):
Worried for the children, Devlinraced to the lean-to to assess
the damage.
Devlin (20:56):
Are either of you hurt?
Alabaster Catz (20:57):
Reynard sat up, dazed as if he had been
sleeping.
Reynard (21:01):
What happened?
Devlin (21:03):
The Fool. She attacked us in our sleep.
Alabaster Catz (21:06):
Devlin then looked at Lavinia who was
crouched under a tree with hereyes shut and ears covered.
Devlin (21:12):
Will she be all right?
Reynard (21:13):
She will.
Alabaster Catz (21:14):
Answered Reynard.
Nodding, Devlin sat down andbegan to tend to his shoulder.
Devlin (21:16):
Why does she not speak?
Alabaster Catz (21:17):
Reynard sighed and got up to comfort his
sister.
Reynard (21:20):
When she was younger, she witnessed the death of our
father at the hands of a witch.
She has not spoken since.
Alabaster Catz (21:31):
A swell of pity filled Devlin.
Devlin (21:34):
I understand your pain, little one. I too, have lost
someone to the foulness ofwitches.
Alabaster Catz (21:41):
Lavinia didn't respond.
Reynard (21:43):
Did they die to?
Alabaster Catz (21:44):
Asked Reynard.
Having bandaged his wound,Devlin stood up and stared into
the woods.
Devlin (21:51):
In a way, but now is not the time to mourn. We must press
on. The Sisters Five know we'rehere.
Alabaster Catz (21:58):
Then with a grunt, the huntsman slung his
crossbow over his good shoulderand began trudging through the
snow.
Hours after sunrise, Devlin andthe children found themselves
battling a raging storm. Coldwinds ripped through their
clothes as pebble hard snowpelted their cheeks. Forced to
(22:19):
seek shelter, Devlin led thechildren to a nearby cave.
Devlin (22:24):
We'll wait here until the storm passes. Then we must
move quickly. For it is likelyThe Sisters Five know where we
are headed.
Alabaster Catz (22:31):
Devlin took the flint from his pack and tossed
it to Reynard who began workingon a fire. He then noticed a
small spot of red on his tunic.
Moving away from the children,he removed his bandage to
inspect his wounds. The bandageswhile soaked, did not reek of
the putressence that oftenforeshadowed infection.
(22:51):
Satisfied, Devlin applied freshwrappings and moved to rejoin
the children. However upon doingso, he caught the faint sound of
a woman humming deep inside thecave. He turned to see if
Reynard and Lavinia could hearit too, but they simply
continued going about theirbusiness completely unaware.
(23:12):
Without a word of warning, heunslung his crossbow and stepped
into the darkness of the cave.
He followed the voice until hereached a large cavern where a
woman was bathing alone and ahot spring. Trickles of water
echoed off the walls as Devlincrept inside with his crossbow
(23:33):
trained on her back. However,before he could get any closer,
she stopped humming.
The Temptress (23:40):
Greetings, huntsman. I've been waiting for
you.
Alabaster Catz (23:45):
The woman's voice was smooth and smoldering,
as if her words flowed likemolten silk. Rolling droplets
glistened down her back, whichwas only covered by the drape of
her long dark hair. The curvesof her hips while tantalizing
and delicate, were left to theimagination beneath ripples of
water. Devlin's eyes traced thelines of her body, and although
(24:08):
he knew she was a witch, hestill felt the pool of her
beauty. Keeping her back to him.
The woman continued.
The Temptress (24:17):
Have you come to kill me?
Devlin (24:19):
No, not yet.
The Temptress (24:22):
Then why have you come?
Devlin (24:24):
The boy and the girl. I wish to see them home safely do
not want you to interfere.
Alabaster Catz (24:31):
Folding her arms to cover her chest. The
Temptress slowly turned aroundand Devlin's heart fluttered. It
had been many years since he'dlast seen the woman he loved.
His eyes welled with tears andhe lowered his crossbow. The
Temptress frowned.
The Temptress (24:48):
It breaks my heart to see you this way,
Devlin.
Devlin (24:52):
No more than it breaks mine.
Alabaster Catz (24:55):
The temptress glanced at Devlin's wound and
took his hand.
The Temptress (24:58):
You're wounded?
Alabaster Catz (25:00):
She said concerned
Devlin (25:01):
It's just a scratch.
I've survived worse.
Alabaster Catz (25:05):
Releasing his hand The Temptress lowered her
gaze.
The Temptress (25:09):
I did what I did and I cannot undo it, despite
wishing otherwise.
Devlin (25:14):
You gave yourself to witches. And for what? Eternal
beauty, power?
The Temptress (25:20):
Love.
Alabaster Catz (25:20):
She replied.
The Temptress (25:22):
And as a result you were spared.
Devlin (25:24):
I would rather have stayed with you.
The Temptress (25:27):
And have the curse take us both. Only the
Sisters had the power to saveus.
Devlin (25:33):
Yes, but at the price of each other.
The Temptress (25:36):
A price we both paid it would seem. I chose so
that you could live on. Be happyand grow old in the arms of
another. Not for you to consignyourself to the guilt that set
you upon your path.
Devlin (25:52):
And I will not stray from it. Not until you... not
until I kill the Sisters Five.
Alabaster Catz (26:00):
Cupping a handful of water, The Temptress
looked away and proceeded tobathe.
The Temptress (26:06):
I will not hinder you from your task, but nor will
I help you. I am bound to theSisters as they are to me.
Devlin (26:16):
I understand. Thank you.
The Temptress (26:20):
Tell me, of what importance to you are the
children. Why risk your life forthem?
Devlin (26:27):
They are innocent, just as we were. I will not see harm
come to them by the same evil.
Alabaster Catz (26:34):
Abruptly dropping the water in her hand.
The Temptress looked at thehuntsman, her face tight with
worry.
The Temptress (26:41):
Devlin you mustn't-
Alabaster Catz (26:42):
But she looked away as if unable to say more.
The Temptress (26:46):
Please.
Alabaster Catz (26:47):
She whispered.
The Temptress (26:48):
Be careful.
Alabaster Catz (26:50):
The lines on Devlin's face softened as he
took her hand and for a moment,they shared the memory of a
spring meadow under a warm sunand the scent of wild Lavender
in their clothes. Then thememory faded, and the Huntsman
was alone.
The storm had passed by the timeDevlin returned to the children
(27:11):
and despite their wonderingfaces, he gathered his pack and
smothered the campfire withoutexplanation.
Devlin (27:18):
Time to go.
Alabaster Catz (27:19):
He muttered.
Doing as they were told, Reynardand Lavinia grabbed their cloaks
and followed him into the cold.
Hours later, the sun was warm,the winds were mild and Reynard
began to recognize hissurroundings. Excited, he darted
ahead of the Huntsman.
Reynard (27:38):
Devlin, I know these woods. I know where we are!
Devlin (27:42):
Reynard, wait!
Alabaster Catz (27:43):
But he didn't.
He ran past the great tree wherehe and his sister would listen
to crows. Past the hidden pondwhere they chased frogs and
through the bushes where theyhunted mice. It was only when he
saw the inn that he stopped.
Seconds later Devlin approachedReynard with Lavinia next to
(28:06):
him.
Innkeeper (28:06):
Hold, Reynad. We don't know if it's safe.
Alabaster Catz (28:11):
Unslinging his bow, Devlin slowly opened the
front door and entered the inn.
The One Eyed Rabbit was more ofa cottage than anything else.
Furnished only with a singletable, a kitchen and a round
window that served as itsnamesake, there was little else.
Scanning the room, Devlinnoticed that the fireplace had
not been lit for at least a fewdays and there were no fur
(28:33):
cloaks hanging by the door. Theinn was as cold and empty as the
forest outside. A ball began toform in the pit of his stomach
as the huntsman looked at thechildren, knowing that it was
unlikely that their mother wasstill alive.
Reynard (28:52):
Perhaps she's out looking for us?
Alabaster Catz (28:56):
Asserted Reynard.
Devlin (28:57):
Perhaps. If that is the case, then you and Lavinia
should wait here. I can staywith you if you wish.
Alabaster Catz (29:05):
Reynard nodded in agreement, but as his eyes
filled with tears, Devlin couldsee that the boy knew the truth
as well.
Devlin (29:12):
Food.
Alabaster Catz (29:13):
Said Devlin changing the subject.
Devlin (29:15):
You both must be hungry.
Let's get you something to eat.
Alabaster Catz (29:20):
Opening the cupboards, Devlin began
gathering various herbs andvegetables for a stew. He filled
the water jug and poured it intothe cauldron hanging in the
fireplace. Then, after dicing upthe ingredients, he poured them
into the pot and went to lightthe fire.
Devlin (29:36):
Reynard, where do you keep your firewood?
Reynard (29:39):
Out back.
Alabaster Catz (29:39):
He replied.
Rising to his feet. Devlin movedto the back door to let himself
out. Aside from a small spacewhere the firewood was stacked,
the back of a cottage openedinto unchecked wilderness.
Devlin tucked a log under hisarm and turned to head inside
when his eye caught somethingblack lying in the snow. Moving
(30:04):
closer to investigate, he sawthat it was Reynard's cloak, the
one he had tied to his horse.
And next to it, a flower thatdidn't bloom in the winter. A
small sprig of lavender.
Devlin's muscles tensed as hedropped the log and raised his
crossbow. Rushing back inside,he found Reynard sitting alone
(30:25):
at the table.
Devlin (30:26):
Reynard, where's your sister?
Reynard (30:28):
She went outside.
Alabaster Catz (30:30):
He replied, startled.
Reynard (30:31):
Why is something wrong?
Alabaster Catz (30:33):
Panicked, Devlin moved to the front door, but
stopped when he noticedLavinia's cloak on the back of
her chair. Alarms rang in hismind and he could feel that
something was wrong. He began towonder how they eluded The Wild
when he forgot to removeLavinia's cloak. He wondered how
The Fool's magic enthralledReynard before the symbols were
(30:53):
disturbed. Then he recalledReynard's crudely cut hair and
oversized clothes, and concludedthat it was the perfect disguise
for a little girl who wanted toappear as a boy. Backing away
from the table, Devlin aimed hiscrossbow at Reynard.
Reynard (31:12):
Very good huntsman.
Alabaster Catz (31:13):
Said The Liar, smiling.
Reynard (31:15):
I'm impressed you figured it out. Unfortunately,
you're too late.
Alabaster Catz (31:22):
Squeezing the trigger, Devlin fired his
crossbow. But nothing happened.
Then The Liar laughed.
Reynard (31:32):
Now give me your hand and together we'll go.
Alabaster Catz (31:37):
Suddenly, a knife pierced through Devlin's
back and the voice of a littlegirl whispered into his ear.
Lavinia (31:43):
Where nothing that moves lies under the snow.
Innkeeper (31:53):
And there you have it. The tale of the Sisters
Five. Well, would you look atthat? Time to close up for the
night. You'd best be on your wayfriend. I hear there's an east
wind coming and I wouldn't wantto be caught on the wrong side
of the door when it gets here.
Sorry, we're closed. Come backtomorrow when- Hello? Is anyone
(32:13):
there?
Alabaster Catz (32:39):
That concludes our show for the evening. Thank
you for listening to theAlabaster Catz podcast and I
hope you enjoyed my presence inthe room. Next time, we'll
(33:02):
explore the cute and the macobreas we discover what happens when
children play games. If youliked what you heard tonight,
Special thanks to tonight'stalent, Rob Sharp for his roles
help us fill the room with morebodies by leaving a review. Once
(33:23):
as "The Innkeeper" and "Devlin,"Natalie Knightingale for her
role as "Reynard," Amy Brown forher role as "The Temptress,"
again. Thank you for joining us.
I'm Alabaster Catz. AndAmelie Brown for her role as
"Lavinia," Andres Hernandez andElvya Dulcimer for their musical
arrangement of The Eulogy ofremember, the best stories are
the ones we tell in the dark.
Snow and Phoebe Street formelody arrangement and vocals.
Good evening, I'm Alabaster Catz. And it's
time to tell another tale in thedark
Welcome to the show. A Huntsmanis defined as one who hunts,
(00:23):
especially one who hunts foxes.
What makes this interesting isthat foxes are notoriously
difficult to catch. They concealthemselves, travel great
distances, and don't move instraight lines. And when they
sense that they're being hunted,they backtrack, circle around
and disguise their scent.
(00:48):
Ironically, to avoid beingcaught, foxes employ the same
misdirection that the huntsmanuses to catch them. And that
brings us to tonight's story. Toanswer a simple question, how do
you know if you are the fox orthe Huntsman? So join me as we
(01:09):
traipse through the sad and thestrange and follow a huntsman
who helps two children that arebeing hunted by the very witches
he hunts. Once again, it's timeto grab a drink, dim the lights
and blend in with the shadowsThe show's about to begin.
(01:55):
The Sisters FiveBy Alabaster Catz
Innkeeper (02:30):
Hello! Welcome stranger. Come in, come in. Have
a seat. Here you go. A pint ofthis and you'll be warmer than a
witch on Sunday. So, are you newto the mountain are just passing
through. Oh, Just in time. She'sabout to start.
Bard (02:49):
All appers well when the eastern wind blows. Safe behind
doors with fires aglow. When outof the dark comes a wrap at your
(03:17):
door from the presence ofsomething that wasn't before. Be
still my little darlings throughthe keyhole you spy and gaze at
(03:47):
the shadows dancing awry. Raiseup your arm and slide back the
latch. Ignoring the sound of thewalls that we scratch. Now give
(04:17):
me your hand on adventure we'llgo. Where nothing that moves
lies under the snow. Wherenothing that moves lies under
(04:44):
the snow. All appears well whenthe eastern wind blows. Silent
and empty when fires turn cold.
When splinters of wood, theyswing from your door. From the
(05:14):
presence of something thatwasn't before. Be still my
little darlings your beds havegone cold. Where nothing remains
(05:41):
but stories of old. Raise yourarms and pray you survive. Don't
open the door to the dreadSisters Five. Now give me your
(06:10):
hand and together we'll go wherenothing that moves lies under
the snow. Where nothing thatmoves lies under the snow.
Innkeeper (06:44):
Ah, the Eulogy of Snow. Never was there a more
dark and beautiful song. Thereisn't a soul in the mountain
that doesn't know it. Why, justthe other day I uh... wait,
don't tell me you've never heardof the Sisters Five? Well, it's
not wise to speak of themloosely but I can't in good
(07:05):
conscience leave you without atleast sharing the tale. It's not
just a story, mind you. It'salso a warning. You see, a long
time ago, there was ahuntsman...
Alabaster Catz (07:23):
Safe behind doors with fire is a glow. These
were the thoughts of thehuntsman as he sat on his horse
and gazed down the mountain atthe village below. Wisps of
smoke rose from chimneys likesouls departing the dead. There
were no merchants selling in thesquare, nor children playing in
(07:43):
the streets. No farmersgathering wheat nor skinner's
tanning fur. The store roomswere full, the woodpiles were
stocked, and all who hoped tosee next spring, were locked
away in the safety of theirhomes. All except the Huntsman.
For only he, a man paid in gold,would set out into the darkness
(08:07):
to kill that which lives there.
A cold wind blew from the eastas the huntsman pulled his furs
tighter around his shoulders. Hechecked his crossbow for frost,
and the potions on his belt forice. Then with an eye to the
dying sun, he tapped his heelsand urged his horse into the
(08:27):
forest.
It had snowed the night before,covering the ground in a blanket
of white. Any sign thatsomething had passed, was long
buried beneath it. However, thiswas of little concern to the
(08:47):
Huntsman, for he knew that whathe was tracking was not required
to set foot on the ground.
Venturing deeper into the woods,he continued his search until
only the moon was left to lighthis way. It was then that the
huntsman dismounted to procurethe flint and tinder for his
(09:08):
torch that he heard a rustlingin the bushes. Whipping around,
he raised his crossbow andcalled out to the night.
Devlin (09:18):
Show yourself!
Alabaster Catz (09:19):
He demanded.
A moment later the bushes partedand out crept a little boy and a
little girl. The Huntsman lookedthem over with a keen eye and
noticed that the boy's hair hadbeen crudely cut, and that his
muddied clothes were a size toolarge. As for the girl, her hair
was a tangled mass, and she waswrapped in the tattered remains
(09:42):
of an old dress. Both werefilthy and lacerated with
scratches. It didn't take longfor the huntsman to conclude
that they were running fromsomething.
Devlin (09:52):
Step into the light.
Alabaster Catz (09:54):
He pressed.
The boy glanced at theHuntsman's belt where a large
knife glistened in thetortchlight. Lowering his
crossbow, the huntsman smiled.
Devlin (10:03):
Be still boy, you have nothing to fear from me. What's
your name?
Reynard (10:08):
Raynard.
Alabaster Catz (10:09):
He answered.
Reynard (10:10):
And this is my sister, Lavinia.
Devlin (10:12):
Well met, Reynad. My name is Devlin. Tell me, why are
you alone in these woods?
Alabaster Catz (10:18):
Reynard moved closer with his sister's hand in
his.
Reynard (10:21):
we're being chased sir.
By a witch!
Alabaster Catz (10:24):
Devlin raised an eyebrow.
Devlin (10:25):
A witch, you say?
Reynard (10:27):
Yes sir. Will you help us?
Alabaster Catz (10:28):
Just then the shrill of a ghostly howl echoed
in the distance.
Devlin (10:37):
I see.
Alabaster Catz (10:38):
Devin said gravely.
Unknown (10:39):
You're fortunate to have found me for that is no
ordinary witch that hunts you.
She is called The Wild. Andshe's the first of the Sisters
Five.
Reynard (10:49):
The Sisters Five?
Devlin (10:51):
Yes. Separately, they are named, The Wild, The Fool,
Alabaster Catz (10:51):
Ask Reynard.
The Temptress, The Liar and TheMurderess. Five witches that
form the most dangerous coven inthe mountains.
Reynardswallowed the lump in his
throat.
Reynard (11:07):
How do you know so much about the Sisters Five?
Alabaster Catz (11:10):
Devlin shrugged.
Devlin (11:11):
I'm a huntsman. I was hired by the villagers to rid
them of this menace. However,given that I cannot hunt with
you by my side. I must nowchoose whether to leave you here
or escort you home.
Alabaster Catz (11:24):
The siblings exchanged nervous glances, and
Devlin chuckled.
Devlin (11:29):
I choose the latter of course.
Alabaster Catz (11:31):
Then the children smiled.
Devlin (11:33):
Now tell me. where's your home?
Reynard (11:35):
At an inn deep in the woods.
Devlin (11:37):
You mean the One Eyed Rabbit? I know of it. It's a
tiny place well known amongstHuntsmen, although I've never
been myself.
Reynard (11:47):
It's true.
Reynard added.
We're often visited by Huntsmen.
They've taught me how to readthe forest. Only, I seem to have
lost my way.
Alabaster Catz (11:57):
Devlin nodded.
Devlin (11:58):
The Wild uses her magic to move the trees, making it
easier to disorientate her prey.
But fear not, for all magic hasits tells. You just need to look
closely to see them.
Alabaster Catz (12:12):
Reaching into his pack, Devlin pulled out two
cloaks and tossed them to thechildren.
Devlin (12:17):
Here, put these on before you catch your death. We
will go on foot from here.
Alabaster Catz (12:23):
As the night drew on, Devlin lead Reynard and
Lavinia deeper into the shiftingforest. The Huntsman moved
through the woods with the easeof someone born to them. And
although the children wereyoung, they found themselves
struggling to keep up. It wasonly after Devlin had stopped
that Reynard realized somethingwas wrong.
Reynard (12:43):
What is it?
Alabaster Catz (12:44):
Whispered Reynard.
Devlin (12:45):
The Wild.
Alabaster Catz (12:46):
Answered Devlin.
Devlin (12:47):
She has found us.
Quickly we must hide.
Alabaster Catz (12:51):
Suddenly a shrieking howl erupted from the
trees and Devlin rushed thechildren down a small ravine.
Grabbing a leafy branch, hedragged it behind them to
conceal their footprints. Thenhe unbridled his horse and
removed his saddle.
Devlin (13:06):
Raynard, quick give me your cloak.
Alabaster Catz (13:09):
Doing as he was told, Reynard handed Devlin his
cloak and the Huntsman tied itaround his horse's neck. Then
with a slap to the hindquarters,the horse took off running.
Reynard (13:19):
What are you doing?
Alabaster Catz (13:20):
Asked Reynard.
Devlin (13:21):
Leaving a trail to follow. Now lie down and be
still.
Alabaster Catz (13:25):
The trio press their bodies against the snow
and within moments, anotherscreeching howl pierced the air.
Then slowly, the vision of awoman riding the frozen carcass
of a bear sauntered into view.
(13:47):
The Wild looked more beast thanhuman. Crouched on the bears
shoulders, she wore a wolf skullheaddress, a black fur cloak and
a leather loincloth. She archedher back to sniff the air and
when she did, her corpse blueskin glowed under the moonlight,
revealing the many tattooedsigils covering her body.
(14:09):
Commanding the bear forward, sheslowly circled the clearing
before stopping at the lip ofthe ravine. The forest fell
deathly silent. Devlin's musclestightened around his crossbow
and his hand drifted to hisknife. He glanced at Reynard,
who was shivering in the snow,but remained absolutely silent.
(14:30):
He could feel the unnatural coldof the bears paws, rolling down
his back like a thick fog. Andwith a snap of her neck, The
Wild turned her attention to thehorse's trail and grinned with a
mouthful of pointed teeth.
Clutching her bone staff, sheheld it overhead to part the
trees and the bear lurched afterthe Huntsman's horse.
(15:00):
For several moments, neitherDevlin nor the children moved.
It was only after hearing thecrows overhead that they emerged
from the ravine.
Devlin (15:11):
It's clear.
Alabaster Catz (15:12):
Said Devlin.
Devlin (15:13):
You can come up.
Alabaster Catz (15:15):
Helping the children to their feet. Devlin
took off his cloak and wrappedit around a shivering Reynard.
Devlin (15:21):
Well done, boy.Well done.
Alabaster Catz (15:23):
Raynard's lips curled into a smile.
Reynard (15:25):
Are we safe?
Alabaster Catz (15:26):
He asked chattering his teeth
Devlin (15:28):
For now, but we must keep moving. For not all witches
require scent in order to hunt.
Alabaster Catz (15:34):
Numb from both the snow and the encounter, the
children simply nodded andfollowed the huntsman deeper
into the forest.
The winter nights can be long inthe mountains, and while the
wind in the cold may bedangerous, every Huntsman knew
that it was the snow that wouldprove your undoing. Whatever
(15:57):
strength was gained from food orrest was always lost trudging
through the snow. Devlin knewthat Reynard and Lavinia were
more tired than they cared toadmit. By himself, he could have
pressed on. But with twochildren, he decided it was best
to set up camp for the night.
Retrieving the axe from hispack, he began to chop down
(16:18):
branches to build a shelter.
Devlin (16:24):
Reynard, can you make a fire?
Reynard (16:27):
Of course I can.
Alabaster Catz (16:28):
Devlin smiled.
Devlin (16:29):
Good lad.
Alabaster Catz (16:31):
Smiling back.
Reynard grabbed a rock and beganstripping a twig to make
kindling. Minutes later, thechildren were sitting under a
lean-to warming their hands bythe fire and watching Devlin
draw symbols in the snow with astick.
Reynard (16:45):
What are you doing?
Alabaster Catz (16:46):
Asked Reynard.
Devlin (16:48):
Creating a barrier.
These are called apotropaicsymbols. They repel witches so
long as they remain undisturbed.
Alabaster Catz (16:57):
Lavinia glanced into the darkness and clung to
Reynard's arm. Devlin kneltbeside her and smiled.
Devlin (17:03):
Fear not little one. Not everything that lives in the
dark is bad. There are goodwitches too.
Reynard (17:10):
Do the symbols keep them out as well?
Devlin (17:12):
No, but only because they require different symbols.
Reynard (17:16):
Really? Which ones?
Alabaster Catz (17:19):
Devlin paused before answering.
Devlin (17:22):
Snow angels.
Alabaster Catz (17:23):
He said grinning. Lavinia giggled.
Devlin (17:27):
Now then, no more talk of witches. Let's get some rest.
Alabaster Catz (17:32):
Smiling, Reynard and Lavinia climbed under their
blankets and drifted off tosleep.
In the quiet of midnight, Devlinawoke to the sound of jingling.
Grabbing his crossbow, hequickly rose to his feet and saw
(17:52):
Reynard standing at the edge ofthe barrier.
Devlin (17:55):
Reynard, what are you doing? Come away from there.
Alabaster Catz (17:58):
Reynard didn't respond.
Devlin (18:00):
Reynard?
Alabaster Catz (18:01):
Suddenly, a woman wearing a red and black
harlequin's garb stepped out ofthe darkness. Her face was
powder white, with eyes as redas her ruby grin. She wore
mismatched colored gloves withlong black fingernails and
slippers topped with tiny bells.
And on her head, a matching capwith two points curled like a
ram's horns. She slowlyapproached, pointing her toes
(18:24):
with each step befor stopping infront of Reynard. Then she
raised a throwing knife into theair and lowered it to the ground
in a deep theatrical bow.
Devlin (18:36):
The Fool
Alabaster Catz (18:37):
Shouted Devlin.
Devlin (18:39):
Reynard move out of the way!
Alabaster Catz (18:41):
But Reynard continued to watch in a dazed
stupor. The Fool frowned atDevlin and held the finger to
her lips requesting silence.
Then with a wave of her hand,the forest swelled with music
and she began to dance. Sheswayed and twirled like a
spinning top, dragging the knifealong her arms while darting in
(19:02):
and out of Devlin's crosshairs.
Then slowly, Reynard began tomimic her movements, lazily
lifting his limbs as if tied tostrings. He hopped in spun in
time with The Fool, and as hedid, he kicked away the symbols
that his feet. Devlin rushed toReynard's side and yanked him
(19:23):
away from the barrier. He aimedhis crossbow and fired, but The
Fool deftly tumbled backwards,avoiding the shot. Landing
gracefully on her feet, shetwirled the knife between her
fingers and grinned. Then with amagician's flair, she waved her
hand and procured four moreknives. Collecting them in a
fist, she tossed them overhead,juggling each one with ease as
(19:46):
she continued to dance. A momentlater, the music came to an
abrupt stop and the knivesfroze, suspended in air. She
flashed a look of feignedembarrassment as if her trick
had been revealed, only for hergrin to return behind the tips
of her fingers. Without warning,the knives turned to face
(20:06):
Lavinia and hurled themselves inher direction. Lavinia screamed,
and Devlin quickly grabbed hisfur bedding and tossed it into
the air. The knives sunkharmlessly into its folds and
fell to the ground. Then heturned to face the fool, but
only in time to see the glint ofmetal plunge into his shoulder.
(20:28):
Growling in pain, Devlin droppedhis crossbow and grabbed a
potion from his belt. He hurledit at the fool and it exploded
on the ground, kicking up asilver mist. However, when the
mist settled, The Fool was gone,leaving only the fading sound of
jingling in her wake.
(20:51):
Worried for the children, Devlinraced to the lean-to to assess
the damage.
Devlin (20:56):
Are either of you hurt?
Alabaster Catz (20:57):
Reynard sat up, dazed as if he had been
sleeping.
Reynard (21:01):
What happened?
Devlin (21:03):
The Fool. She attacked us in our sleep.
Alabaster Catz (21:06):
Devlin then looked at Lavinia who was
crouched under a tree with hereyes shut and ears covered.
Devlin (21:12):
Will she be all right?
Reynard (21:13):
She will.
Alabaster Catz (21:14):
Answered Reynard.
Nodding, Devlin sat down andbegan to tend to his shoulder.
Devlin (21:16):
Why does she not speak?
Alabaster Catz (21:17):
Reynard sighed and got up to comfort his
sister.
Reynard (21:20):
When she was younger, she witnessed the death of our
father at the hands of a witch.
She has not spoken since.
Alabaster Catz (21:31):
A swell of pity filled Devlin.
Devlin (21:34):
I understand your pain, little one. I too, have lost
someone to the foulness ofwitches.
Alabaster Catz (21:41):
Lavinia didn't respond.
Reynard (21:43):
Did they die to?
Alabaster Catz (21:44):
Asked Reynard.
Having bandaged his wound,Devlin stood up and stared into
the woods.
Devlin (21:51):
In a way, but now is not the time to mourn. We must press
on. The Sisters Five know we'rehere.
Alabaster Catz (21:58):
Then with a grunt, the huntsman slung his
crossbow over his good shoulderand began trudging through the
snow.
Hours after sunrise, Devlin andthe children found themselves
battling a raging storm. Coldwinds ripped through their
clothes as pebble hard snowpelted their cheeks. Forced to
(22:19):
seek shelter, Devlin led thechildren to a nearby cave.
Devlin (22:24):
We'll wait here until the storm passes. Then we must
move quickly. For it is likelyThe Sisters Five know where we
are headed.
Alabaster Catz (22:31):
Devlin took the flint from his pack and tossed
it to Reynard who began workingon a fire. He then noticed a
small spot of red on his tunic.
Moving away from the children,he removed his bandage to
inspect his wounds. The bandageswhile soaked, did not reek of
the putressence that oftenforeshadowed infection.
(22:51):
Satisfied, Devlin applied freshwrappings and moved to rejoin
the children. However upon doingso, he caught the faint sound of
a woman humming deep inside thecave. He turned to see if
Reynard and Lavinia could hearit too, but they simply
continued going about theirbusiness completely unaware.
(23:12):
Without a word of warning, heunslung his crossbow and stepped
into the darkness of the cave.
He followed the voice until hereached a large cavern where a
woman was bathing alone and ahot spring. Trickles of water
echoed off the walls as Devlincrept inside with his crossbow
(23:33):
trained on her back. However,before he could get any closer,
she stopped humming.
The Temptress (23:40):
Greetings, huntsman. I've been waiting for
you.
Alabaster Catz (23:45):
The woman's voice was smooth and smoldering,
as if her words flowed likemolten silk. Rolling droplets
glistened down her back, whichwas only covered by the drape of
her long dark hair. The curvesof her hips while tantalizing
and delicate, were left to theimagination beneath ripples of
water. Devlin's eyes traced thelines of her body, and although
(24:08):
he knew she was a witch, hestill felt the pool of her
beauty. Keeping her back to him.
The woman continued.
The Temptress (24:17):
Have you come to kill me?
Devlin (24:19):
No, not yet.
The Temptress (24:22):
Then why have you come?
Devlin (24:24):
The boy and the girl. I wish to see them home safely do
not want you to interfere.
Alabaster Catz (24:31):
Folding her arms to cover her chest. The
Temptress slowly turned aroundand Devlin's heart fluttered. It
had been many years since he'dlast seen the woman he loved.
His eyes welled with tears andhe lowered his crossbow. The
Temptress frowned.
The Temptress (24:48):
It breaks my heart to see you this way,
Devlin.
Devlin (24:52):
No more than it breaks mine.
Alabaster Catz (24:55):
The temptress glanced at Devlin's wound and
took his hand.
The Temptress (24:58):
You're wounded?
Alabaster Catz (25:00):
She said concerned
Devlin (25:01):
It's just a scratch.
I've survived worse.
Alabaster Catz (25:05):
Releasing his hand The Temptress lowered her
gaze.
The Temptress (25:09):
I did what I did and I cannot undo it, despite
wishing otherwise.
Devlin (25:14):
You gave yourself to witches. And for what? Eternal
beauty, power?
The Temptress (25:20):
Love.
Alabaster Catz (25:20):
She replied.
The Temptress (25:22):
And as a result you were spared.
Devlin (25:24):
I would rather have stayed with you.
The Temptress (25:27):
And have the curse take us both. Only the
Sisters had the power to saveus.
Devlin (25:33):
Yes, but at the price of each other.
The Temptress (25:36):
A price we both paid it would seem. I chose so
that you could live on. Be happyand grow old in the arms of
another. Not for you to consignyourself to the guilt that set
you upon your path.
Devlin (25:52):
And I will not stray from it. Not until you... not
until I kill the Sisters Five.
Alabaster Catz (26:00):
Cupping a handful of water, The Temptress
looked away and proceeded tobathe.
The Temptress (26:06):
I will not hinder you from your task, but nor will
I help you. I am bound to theSisters as they are to me.
Devlin (26:16):
I understand. Thank you.
The Temptress (26:20):
Tell me, of what importance to you are the
children. Why risk your life forthem?
Devlin (26:27):
They are innocent, just as we were. I will not see harm
come to them by the same evil.
Alabaster Catz (26:34):
Abruptly dropping the water in her hand.
The Temptress looked at thehuntsman, her face tight with
worry.
The Temptress (26:41):
Devlin you mustn't-
Alabaster Catz (26:42):
But she looked away as if unable to say more.
The Temptress (26:46):
Please.
Alabaster Catz (26:47):
She whispered.
The Temptress (26:48):
Be careful.
Alabaster Catz (26:50):
The lines on Devlin's face softened as he
took her hand and for a moment,they shared the memory of a
spring meadow under a warm sunand the scent of wild Lavender
in their clothes. Then thememory faded, and the Huntsman
was alone.
The storm had passed by the timeDevlin returned to the children
(27:11):
and despite their wonderingfaces, he gathered his pack and
smothered the campfire withoutexplanation.
Devlin (27:18):
Time to go.
Alabaster Catz (27:19):
He muttered.
Doing as they were told, Reynardand Lavinia grabbed their cloaks
and followed him into the cold.
Hours later, the sun was warm,the winds were mild and Reynard
began to recognize hissurroundings. Excited, he darted
ahead of the Huntsman.
Reynard (27:38):
Devlin, I know these woods. I know where we are!
Devlin (27:42):
Reynard, wait!
Alabaster Catz (27:43):
But he didn't.
He ran past the great tree wherehe and his sister would listen
to crows. Past the hidden pondwhere they chased frogs and
through the bushes where theyhunted mice. It was only when he
saw the inn that he stopped.
Seconds later Devlin approachedReynard with Lavinia next to
(28:06):
him.
Innkeeper (28:06):
Hold, Reynad. We don't know if it's safe.
Alabaster Catz (28:11):
Unslinging his bow, Devlin slowly opened the
front door and entered the inn.
The One Eyed Rabbit was more ofa cottage than anything else.
Furnished only with a singletable, a kitchen and a round
window that served as itsnamesake, there was little else.
Scanning the room, Devlinnoticed that the fireplace had
not been lit for at least a fewdays and there were no fur
(28:33):
cloaks hanging by the door. Theinn was as cold and empty as the
forest outside. A ball began toform in the pit of his stomach
as the huntsman looked at thechildren, knowing that it was
unlikely that their mother wasstill alive.
Reynard (28:52):
Perhaps she's out looking for us?
Alabaster Catz (28:56):
Asserted Reynard.
Devlin (28:57):
Perhaps. If that is the case, then you and Lavinia
should wait here. I can staywith you if you wish.
Alabaster Catz (29:05):
Reynard nodded in agreement, but as his eyes
filled with tears, Devlin couldsee that the boy knew the truth
as well.
Devlin (29:12):
Food.
Alabaster Catz (29:13):
Said Devlin changing the subject.
Devlin (29:15):
You both must be hungry.
Let's get you something to eat.
Alabaster Catz (29:20):
Opening the cupboards, Devlin began
gathering various herbs andvegetables for a stew. He filled
the water jug and poured it intothe cauldron hanging in the
fireplace. Then, after dicing upthe ingredients, he poured them
into the pot and went to lightthe fire.
Devlin (29:36):
Reynard, where do you keep your firewood?
Reynard (29:39):
Out back.
Alabaster Catz (29:39):
He replied.
Rising to his feet. Devlin movedto the back door to let himself
out. Aside from a small spacewhere the firewood was stacked,
the back of a cottage openedinto unchecked wilderness.
Devlin tucked a log under hisarm and turned to head inside
when his eye caught somethingblack lying in the snow. Moving
(30:04):
closer to investigate, he sawthat it was Reynard's cloak, the
one he had tied to his horse.
And next to it, a flower thatdidn't bloom in the winter. A
small sprig of lavender.
Devlin's muscles tensed as hedropped the log and raised his
crossbow. Rushing back inside,he found Reynard sitting alone
(30:25):
at the table.
Devlin (30:26):
Reynard, where's your sister?
Reynard (30:28):
She went outside.
Alabaster Catz (30:30):
He replied, startled.
Reynard (30:31):
Why is something wrong?
Alabaster Catz (30:33):
Panicked, Devlin moved to the front door, but
stopped when he noticedLavinia's cloak on the back of
her chair. Alarms rang in hismind and he could feel that
something was wrong. He began towonder how they eluded The Wild
when he forgot to removeLavinia's cloak. He wondered how
The Fool's magic enthralledReynard before the symbols were
(30:53):
disturbed. Then he recalledReynard's crudely cut hair and
oversized clothes, and concludedthat it was the perfect disguise
for a little girl who wanted toappear as a boy. Backing away
from the table, Devlin aimed hiscrossbow at Reynard.
Reynard (31:12):
Very good huntsman.
Alabaster Catz (31:13):
Said The Liar, smiling.
Reynard (31:15):
I'm impressed you figured it out. Unfortunately,
you're too late.
Alabaster Catz (31:22):
Squeezing the trigger, Devlin fired his
crossbow. But nothing happened.
Then The Liar laughed.
Reynard (31:32):
Now give me your hand and together we'll go.
Alabaster Catz (31:37):
Suddenly, a knife pierced through Devlin's
back and the voice of a littlegirl whispered into his ear.
Lavinia (31:43):
Where nothing that moves lies under the snow.
Innkeeper (31:53):
And there you have it. The tale of the Sisters
Five. Well, would you look atthat? Time to close up for the
night. You'd best be on your wayfriend. I hear there's an east
wind coming and I wouldn't wantto be caught on the wrong side
of the door when it gets here.
Sorry, we're closed. Come backtomorrow when- Hello? Is anyone
(32:13):
there?
Alabaster Catz (32:39):
That concludes our show for the evening. Thank
you for listening to theAlabaster Catz podcast and I
hope you enjoyed my presence inthe room. Next time, we'll
(33:02):
explore the cute and the macobreas we discover what happens when
children play games. If youliked what you heard tonight,
Special thanks to tonight'stalent, Rob Sharp for his roles
help us fill the room with morebodies by leaving a review. Once
(33:23):
as "The Innkeeper" and "Devlin,"Natalie Knightingale for her
role as "Reynard," Amy Brown forher role as "The Temptress,"
again. Thank you for joining us.
I'm Alabaster Catz. AndAmelie Brown for her role as
"Lavinia," Andres Hernandez andElvya Dulcimer for their musical
arrangement of The Eulogy ofremember, the best stories are
the ones we tell in the dark.
Snow and Phoebe Street formelody arrangement and vocals.
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