October 31, 2024 ā¢ 45 mins
š§ Leo Brawn Stories: HERMAN
Ā Standalone. Disturbing. Essential.
Episode Description:
Step inside the mind of madness.
From the creators of Leo Brawn comes a chilling new anthology series: Leo Brawn Storiesāstandalone episodes that dive deeper into the twisted lives and haunted pasts of the people who move through the darkness.
First up: Herman Edward Coxlin.
Serial killer. Whisperer of cryptic horrors. A name feared in both the world of the living... and the circles of Hell.
In this nightmarish character portrait, we descend into Hermanās fractured psyche, a labyrinth of violent ritual, whispered prophecy, and infernal language. Words that echo in the black:
Ā Anno Domini... bait... accumulation... contempt... crimson eyelet... hecatomb...
Detritus... conium maculatam... conduit... ophidian weeping... onyx eyelet... eschaton...
This isnāt a case file. This is an incantation.
THIS. IS. HERMAN.
šļøāšØļø Dark. Poetic. Disturbing. A must-listen for fans of true horror fiction.
Tags:
#LeoBrawn #HermanEdwardCoxlin #HorrorPodcast #SerialKillerFiction #AudioDrama #SupernaturalThriller #GothicHorror #LeoBrawnStories #StandaloneEpisode #DarkFantasy #ParanormalPodcast #EsotericHorror #ShoestringTV #PsychologicalHorror #HellSaga #CrimsonEyelet
Starring:
Herman Edward Coxlin - Eric Carlino
Teenage Herman - Brendan Wreay
Toddler Herman - Logan Beard
Lorelei Coxlin, Barbara Earline Coxlin & Young Barb - Emily Fry
OMNI - Mitch LeschinskiĀ
Leo Brawn, Stan Clyde (bully), 1967 Newcaster & 1973 Newscaster - Stitch Mainville
TMITOT (The Man in the Ugly Orange Tie) & Detective Norman "Laddie" Wallace - Michael Cunningham
Stanley Mattress & Martin Brewin - Michael Pelletier
Teacher & Holly (victim) - Stephanie Johnson
Horace Coxlin (Father), Chief Fryer, Mark (neighbor), Prison Guard, Sam (teenager), Toby (teenager) - Lucas Martinez
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The characters and events depicted in this podcast are fictional. Any similarity to any actual persons living or dead or to any actual events, firms, places and institutions or other entities is coincidental and unintentional. This podcast is protected under the laws of the United States and other countries. Its unauthorized duplication, distribution or exhibition may result in civil liability and criminal prosecution. Country of first publication; The United States of America. Leo Brawn c
*Headphones recommended.
Created, written, directed and produced by Jason Beard
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
SPEAKER_00 (00:00):
This is the birth descent.
SPEAKER_02 (00:48):
On early Sunday morning, July 23, 1967, tragedy
(01:11):
struck what many are calling theDetroit Riots.
SPEAKER_01 (01:48):
Mother Lorelei, it's our son.
The way you name him, mother.
SPEAKER_05 (01:53):
Father Horace, he should take after your kin.
So it shall be, mother.
Hi, child.
You will be Herman.
Herman Edward.
After your uncle on yourfather's side.
SPEAKER_00 (02:09):
This is the secret.
You won't remember ourintroduction, but we will be
reacquainted in the future.
(02:37):
You arrive at the time of thegreat germination, the tumor
swelling.
But so be now.
Remember the words and ourdominion.
I bet you for a win.
SPEAKER_03 (03:31):
This is your brother, Herman.
Barbarleen, you put that dolldown and hug your brother.
He stinks.
Why are his eyes like that?
His eyes are still getting usedto the light.
You're six now, so you won'tremember.
But your eyes were dark atfirst, too.
SPEAKER_05 (03:51):
Mother, I need to take the pup to the
veterinarian.
He's fallen ill.
SPEAKER_03 (03:57):
Oh, no.
Why, he was just outside playingwith Barb earlier.
I saw him playing over by someplants with white flowers.
I must have thrown the ball tooclose.
SPEAKER_01 (04:09):
It's probably that goddamn hemlock.
It's spreading faster than I canburn it down.
SPEAKER_03 (04:15):
It's called hemlock?
SPEAKER_05 (04:19):
That's right, little sister, and you behave and steer
clear of it.
This is the first.
SPEAKER_02 (04:49):
It is January 27th, 1973 with the signing of the
Paris Peace Accords ending theVietnam War.
SPEAKER_03 (05:33):
you see that Herman poor thing died how do you know
because I'm 12 and you're halfmy age and I know way more than
you does it look like it'smoving no it looks so scared of
(05:53):
course it was scared animals arestupid they have no idea what's
happening to them it'sEspecially when it wasn't...
natural.
What do you mean, natural?
You're a real doofus, aren't ya?
(06:14):
Most things die on their own.
Why do things...
die?
I don't know.
It's just the way it is.
Every living thing dies.
Including people.
Oh, are you going to cry?
It's sad.
(06:35):
You feel different about it onceyou see what is inside.
Inside?
Yeah, like the inside of thatsquirrel.
It's all red and squishy.
Barb, how do you know what thatlooks like?
SPEAKER_05 (07:00):
Oh, little brother.
I'll show you.
(07:41):
Get away from us, you freak.
If I see you again, I'll killyou.
I go to school here.
We have math together.
What?
What did you say, freak?
(08:01):
Hey, hey, Stanley, get off ofhim.
Shit, let's
SPEAKER_04 (08:04):
go, boys.
Oh, my goodness.
Herman, are you okay?
Let me help you up.
Herman! Herman!
SPEAKER_05 (08:43):
That's right.
You remember.
I haven't spoken to you sinceyou came into this world.
But I've been watching you.
Even when you're hiding in theUndergrowth, I can see you.
Watching me?
Yes.
(09:03):
It is unfortunate that thisreunion will be brief.
Do you see the other...
SPEAKER_00 (09:13):
The
SPEAKER_05 (09:14):
other?
Your relation, sibling.
My sister?
UNKNOWN (09:23):
Yes.
SPEAKER_05 (09:25):
Behold your enemy.
Clyde has ingested her toxicant.
He will now slumber amongst theloam.
SPEAKER_03 (09:36):
Barbara! Herman?
I saw what that piece of shitdid to you at school.
Couldn't let him get away withit.
SPEAKER_05 (09:45):
The other avenged you, Herman.
Remember these words.
Detritus.
Con immaculatum.
Conduit.
Ophidian weeping.
(10:13):
Herman, do you know what theseare?
She's taken her fashion dollsand melted their faces.
Do you see any resemblance?
They look like me and yourmother.
Do you know anything about this?
You two have become thick asthieves.
SPEAKER_03 (10:26):
Horace, he doesn't know anything.
Let him be.
SPEAKER_02 (10:30):
Well, she's caused enough trouble.
Going away is the best thing
SPEAKER_05 (10:36):
for her.
Mother, what does he mean, goingaway?
Your sister needs help, and wefound a place that can give her
that.
She's disturbed, son.
I know you're close to her, butwe can't trust her with you.
You deserve a chance at afuture.
A future?
SPEAKER_02 (11:03):
With more information on the case, I'm
going to hand it over to thelead investigator, Detective
Norman Wallace.
Laddie?
Chief.
SPEAKER_05 (11:14):
Right here?
I don't care.
I'm going anyway.
Thank
SPEAKER_02 (11:19):
you for coming today.
SPEAKER_05 (11:21):
First off, I want to personally thank the agencies
SPEAKER_02 (11:24):
involved that are assisting
SPEAKER_05 (11:25):
us with this case.
The Pennsylvania State Policeand the Federal Bureau of
Investigation.
I also want to thank the peopleof Philadelphia.
We've received over 17,000 tipsand conducted over 250
interviews.
To recap this case, On November13th at 11.58 p.m., we received
(11:46):
a report that an unconsciousperson lay face down in the
front yard of a resident ofDrexel Hill in the Upper Darby
Township.
17th District Police respondedand found a male victim with
fatal wounds which areconsistent with the
SPEAKER_02 (12:00):
previous two victims.
Due to the pattern and thehedonistic nature of the crimes,
we've classified the suspect asa serial killer
SPEAKER_05 (12:10):
who is dangerous at large.
remained undisclosed out ofrespect for their families.
What I will share is that themale victim was a local actor
from whom the killer seemed tohave a...
fixation.
Now, we have a lead in thesedetails we will share.
(12:33):
Officer Leobron discovered aplastic doll's head hidden in
the grass near the victim.
Within the doll's head wasetched a message.
Forever mine.
I believe this was written andemphasizes a particular
obsession towards the victim.
Now,
SPEAKER_02 (12:51):
uh, I'll take questions.
Uh, you.
Uh, yes, Martin Bruin with thePhilly Sojourner.
Has the police department comeup with a nickname for the
serial killer?
My focus is on catching thekiller.
I'll leave the responsibility ofnicknames to all of you.
The Cupid Killer has a nice ringto it.
For the proof as to why no onereads the Sojourner.
(13:13):
Okay, thank you for your time.
SPEAKER_05 (14:28):
Congratulations, son.
A high school graduate.
Your dad would have been soproud.
Thank you.
Mother, I wish he was here.
Barb, too.
Yes, we both wish that.
When she escaped from theclinic...
Mom, it's okay.
I would have thought we'd hearfrom her by now.
(14:52):
But this is your day tocelebrate.
When we get home...
I made your favorite, shoe flypie.
Oh, well, Mother, my friends andI were going to Barry's Diner,
if that's okay.
Oh, well, of course.
I do hope I'll see you tonightso we can celebrate.
Yes, Mother.
Thank you.
(15:13):
Well, congrats, boys.
Raise your root beers.
SPEAKER_02 (15:16):
Hey, would you guys be interested in seeing the new
Brock Gatling movie?
It's supposed to be awesome.
Critics are saying it's like oneof the best movies of the year.
No way.
Nothing can beat Back to theFuture.
Dude, quit living in the past.
That was like last
SPEAKER_05 (15:28):
year.
This is 1986, not 85.
I appreciate the offer.
I'm one of Willie Topaz'sbiggest fans, but I'm supposed
to go home after this.
My mom made shoofly pie.
What?
What the hell is shoofly pie?
What?
SPEAKER_03 (15:43):
It's made from molasses, brown sugar, and
water.
It's disgusting.
But this knucklehead loves it.
Barb?
Hey, little brother.
Sorry, boys.
We have some catching up to do.
Herman is coming with me.
SPEAKER_05 (16:03):
I...
I am?
SPEAKER_00 (16:04):
This is the passage.
Exodus...
SPEAKER_05 (16:16):
You, you look so different.
SPEAKER_03 (16:19):
I won't lie to you, little brother.
I didn't just lose weight for myhealth.
I needed to hide and play insight.
Needed to?
When there's a manhunt for youin three different counties.
Yeah.
A manhunt?
Oh, Herman, stop pretending.
(16:39):
You can't be that naive.
This has always been the workthat has been set out for us.
SPEAKER_05 (16:46):
I don't know what you're talking about.
SPEAKER_03 (16:50):
Yes, you do.
You can pretend with everyoneelse, but don't lie to me.
The dead raccoons behind ourhouse, the neighbor's dog that
went missing, your trophy ofrodent ears buried by the lake.
SPEAKER_05 (17:08):
You know about that?
SPEAKER_03 (17:09):
Of course I do, little brother.
It always builds.
You haven't been ready untiltonight.
Consider this your truegraduation.
SPEAKER_05 (17:24):
Wait, where are you taking me?
The
SPEAKER_03 (17:28):
Bellevue in downtown.
SPEAKER_05 (17:29):
And why are we going there?
SPEAKER_03 (17:32):
Because the actor, Willie Topaz, is staying there.
You know him?
SPEAKER_05 (17:38):
Yeah.
Yeah.
Brock Gatling, Archie Magnet.
I'm like one of his biggestfans, but how do you know where
he'd be staying?
SPEAKER_03 (17:48):
That took some doing, let me tell you.
Let's just say if you'reconvincing enough, you get the
answers you need.
He's been avoiding me for thebetter part of a year.
He has no idea...
He will be my piece deresistance.
SPEAKER_05 (18:10):
But why?
SPEAKER_03 (18:11):
That is the last one.
Stop fucking pretending, Herman.
You know as well as I do, thisis part of who you are.
This act.
The Boy Scout.
It's not you.
Society calls us monsters, but Isay, we're evolved.
(18:34):
A civilized society?
Hmph.
All I see are millions ofmarionettes.
I've cut the strings, and sowill you.
I'm doing what I do because theywere the skills given to me.
And I'm good at it.
Nothing so noble or virtuous assome sort of higher calling.
(18:55):
It is simply what I do, withintense and dangerous
animalistic focus.
That is what you and I are, notso far removed from the beasts
that came before us.
If we instill fear in them, it'sbecause everyone fears what they
don't understand.
(19:15):
But their fear is not whatdrives us.
You and I both know that whatpropels us is no different than
what drives a cheetah to stalk agazelle.
Signs of prey, their movement,their scent.
and this unquenchable thirst fortheir undeniable end.
It's important for you tounderstand this, Herman, and to
(19:40):
finally put aside the act.
Because after tonight, the worldwill know who I am.
And it's time to take the showon the road.
I don't know if we'll ever seeeach other again.
I need to know that you finallycome into your own.
(20:01):
That you can survive and thatyou'll finally give in to being
true to who and what you reallyare.
Please tell me, you know it tobe true?
SPEAKER_05 (20:15):
Yes, sister.
It is true.
I always thought Omni would tellme when there was a green light
to change.
But He hasn't.
Did he tell you?
There
SPEAKER_03 (20:35):
you go again with this omni-nickname.
Is that your mask?
SPEAKER_05 (20:41):
No, he's my friend.
My oldest friend.
Not a mask.
I thought he would give me thesign.
I've been too afraid to do it onmy own.
SPEAKER_03 (20:57):
After tonight...
You won't be.
Now time to get into character.
Hi, little brother.
Is
SPEAKER_05 (21:14):
that his blood?
Yes, I did it.
He's forever with me now.
Herman.
Herman.
I'm not sure when and if we'llmeet again, but you can be free
now.
(21:35):
Where will you go?
As far as I can without gettingcaught.
I'll see you, Herman.
SPEAKER_00 (21:45):
Say goodbye, Herman.
Goodbye.
This is the fall.
The chrysalis.
SPEAKER_05 (22:57):
He walks down Mount Vernon Street towards her
apartment.
I'm waiting inside.
Here she comes.
(23:20):
It won't be much longer now.
Time to get into character.
(23:53):
Seventh floor.
I can hear it.
Rising.
SPEAKER_02 (24:20):
Hey, Holly, hey.
Just walk by your place and thedoor is open.
SPEAKER_04 (24:23):
What?
Thanks, Mark.
SPEAKER_02 (24:27):
Yeah, you
SPEAKER_05 (24:28):
can never be too safe around here.
Not in this
SPEAKER_04 (24:45):
city.
Hello?
(25:08):
Jesse, did you come by theapartment?
Because we talked about that.
You're supposed to let me know.
Because the door is open and youwere the only one who had a key.
Okay.
Okay.
Well, I know I locked up beforeleaving.
(25:28):
Sorry.
Hello?
Okay.
Rude.
What?
(25:55):
Hello?
Hello?
UNKNOWN (26:10):
Hello?
SPEAKER_01 (26:43):
The city of Philadelphia has issued a formal
apology for research experimentsconducted decades ago on inmates
at Holmesburg Prison.
City officials say theUniversity of Pennsylvania
conducted the experiments fromthe 1950s to the 1970s.
The vast majority of thoseexposed to viruses, asbestos,
and other toxins were people ofcolor attempting to make bail.
(27:06):
The city says it was wrong toexploit the vulnerable.
SPEAKER_05 (27:16):
Hey, big sister.
Oh, little brother.
Not so little anymore.
It's been a while.
Yes, it has.
I barely recognized you.
Unfortunately, I've had a returnto form.
They don't offer jazzercisehere.
(27:40):
I can't stay long.
I just wanted to see you.
See how you were doing in here.
It's one of the worst prisons inthe country.
But I found some kindredspirits.
A fellow inmate?
No, there's a doctor thatvisits.
(28:01):
He seems keen on interviewing mein regards to my talent for
making lethal concoctions.
He plans on conducting a fewexperiments at the prison.
I may even get to assist.
So even here, you can't...
We can't change who we are,brother.
(28:22):
No.
I know that all too well.
You do.
So you've won a few trophiesduring your competitions?
Yes.
Several, in fact.
And I've gone on the road to...
(28:44):
Compete.
SPEAKER_02 (28:52):
You got one minute.
SPEAKER_05 (28:55):
One minute to say everything we need to say and
our goodbyes.
I'll visit again.
Oh, little brother.
Still naive.
I doubt by the time you return,I'll still be alive.
The powers that be seek thedeath penalty.
(29:16):
They seem to think that's what Ideserve.
Capital punishment, they callit.
It almost sounds like anachievement.
The first since 1976.
What a wonderful way to ring inthe 90s.
So, this is goodbye?
(29:40):
Just do me one favor.
You remember the name of thedetective?
Wallace.
No, he died.
Not by my hands, unfortunately.
The other one.
Detective...
Braun.
Leo Braun.
Out of Pittsburgh.
That's the one.
(30:01):
He's the dutiful son who foundmy first doll.
I'm...
Intimately familiar with him.
My most recent competition inPittsburgh.
He's been an avid spectator.
He'd make a nice trophy.
(30:24):
Don't you think?
Yes.
Yes, he would.
SPEAKER_02 (30:50):
of me today.
Now between December of 92 andFebruary 93, four bodies were
found along a quarter milestretch of Geneva on the lake.
All four victims were youngwomen in their 20s.
Their bodies were found within aquarter mile stretch of the
beach.
SPEAKER_05 (31:07):
They were all bound at the feet or ankles and had
their left ears and internalorgans removed.
SPEAKER_02 (31:14):
We've just learned that the injuries suffered by
the victims match the M.O.
of several murders spread allover the Midwest.
We also have our
SPEAKER_05 (31:23):
first description of a possible suspect, a fisherman
whose boat ran ashore at around10.47 p.m., observed what he
described as a male,
SPEAKER_02 (31:32):
early 20s, thin and pale with black hair, lingering
over the spot where we found thelast of our four victims,
Susanna
SPEAKER_05 (31:41):
Cartwright.
A fisherman felt that he hadspooked a male who proceeded to
take off once he was spotted.
A
SPEAKER_02 (31:48):
facial composite is being constructed and we plan to
circulate that by this evening.
UNKNOWN (32:06):
This is the door.
SPEAKER_02 (32:46):
There's
SPEAKER_05 (32:52):
nowhere to go.
Just come peacefully.
It's over.
You can't stop me, DetectiveBraun.
Herman, climb to the ledge.
SPEAKER_02 (32:59):
Herman, stop! Don't do it, Herman.
I'll be forced to shoot.
SPEAKER_05 (33:12):
Good.
Now all you have to do is jump.
It's a long way down.
This is your path.
Just open the door.
You need only to lean.
SPEAKER_02 (33:29):
Herman, freeze!
SPEAKER_05 (33:31):
Goodbye, Omni.
On the contrary, Herman.
This is not the end.
Now, jump.
SPEAKER_02 (33:42):
Herman, stop! Hey, Mr.
(34:13):
Coxland, you with us?
SPEAKER_05 (34:16):
Where?
Where am I?
We'll get to that.
Can you give me a name, please?
My name?
Herman.
Full name, including yourmiddle, if you have one.
Herman Edward Coxland.
And what's your name?
I'm Stanley.
(34:37):
Stanley Mattress.
They call me an onboarding
SPEAKER_02 (34:39):
specialist, but I prefer the job titled caseworker
myself.
How are you feeling, Herman?
SPEAKER_05 (34:45):
I actually feel good.
I feel light.
Weightless.
I can't be sure because my headis a little foggy, but I'm
pretty sure I was shot by apolice officer moments ago.
It was about 22 hours ago,actually.
And yes, you were shot.
(35:07):
In the head.
Do you remember why?
Oh, I killed so many.
That's right.
Do you know where you are?
I'm not in jail or imprisoned.
It's not an emergency room.
I doubt this is heaven.
(35:28):
Yeah, no, there was never anychance of that.
You are in hell.
You're a sinner.
Having committed many murdersduring life.
Is Omni here?
I'm afraid I don't know who thatis.
Wishful thinking.
Maybe you can help me withsomething that has always
(35:50):
puzzled me, Mr.
Mattress.
The seven deadly sins.
Yeah?
What about them?
Murder isn't one of them.
Murder, taking the life ofanother, is
SPEAKER_02 (36:03):
considered a mortal sin, Hermann.
Assignment?
Assignment?
SPEAKER_05 (36:36):
What is it?
SPEAKER_02 (36:37):
You are to report to the cave immediately.
I don't have any other furtherinformation to impart.
SPEAKER_05 (36:43):
I'm to report to a
SPEAKER_02 (36:46):
cave?
It's called the Mallee Bulge,but most people just refer to it
as the cave.
SPEAKER_05 (36:54):
Where is this cave?
Funny you should ask.
I have a map.
(37:42):
Mr.
Coxland.
Yes?
Who are you?
Oh.
Names.
Tell me, Herman, does your nameencapsulate who you are?
No.
Far from it.
Then, what should I call you?
I see your point.
(38:04):
Ah, the point...
is that I can help you, Herman.
What would you say if I couldgrant you the vengeance you
seek?
Do I seek vengeance?
Maybe not yet until you hear thename.
What name?
(38:26):
Leo Braun.
Yes, I do seek vengeance againsthim.
Well, what if I told you thatsoon I will have made it so that
you can?
Exact revenge on him.
Here, in hell.
(38:47):
And unlike where you come from,there would be no consequences.
Is Omni helping you?
Omni?
I'm afraid I'm not familiar withthe one you call, uh...
What I can tell you is that youwill have your vengeance.
(39:12):
In time.
For now, you must be patient.
And when the time is right, youwill attend orientation.
What is orientation?
Ah, it helps you with theLeopold Lab.
Provides guidelines, the ruleswe must follow.
Typically, a new arrival will begiven an assignment.
SPEAKER_02 (39:35):
Something like a job.
SPEAKER_05 (39:38):
But this is not for you.
You will live here with me.
I will teach you everything thatI know and then, when Detective
Braun has joined us, you willmeet him face to face.
How you go about enacting yourretribution will be entirely up
(39:59):
to you.
My hope is this will help.
It's...
It's beautiful.
A lethal dagger, consecrated byAsmodeus.
Forged in the first of thefires.
(40:19):
A combination of Beelzebub'sbone and ore.
Mined from the deepest regionsof the Netherworld.
The dagger was once known as theOrabus Grim.
It is yours to wield.
(40:39):
Thank you.
I've never seen anything likeit.
There are few who have.
It devours souls.
And it is yours to keep.
Why are you helping me?
will stage the great battle ofour time.
(41:00):
And you will play a part in itsimpetus.
You have questions, and Iendeavor to answer them.
Have patience, Herman.
There are many rooms within thecave and accommodations.
Let's get you settled.
May I ask, through the glassthere, there's something behind
(41:22):
it.
I can hear it.
Ah, once a great demon, now aloyal pet.
A giant most gentle, but yetpowerful.
SPEAKER_00 (41:39):
I will,
SPEAKER_05 (41:41):
um, show you what it's for.
In time.
Until then, patience andlearning.
to know much her and manysecrets.
(43:00):
Is that you?
It is.
Although in a different phase.
Different than before.
I thought I may never hear fromyou again.
I will always be with you,Herman.
UNKNOWN (43:24):
In life and in death.
SPEAKER_05 (43:31):
Do...
Do you have words for me, Omni?
(44:23):
Leo Braun?
Yeah, I'm Leo.
Herman, it's very good to meetyou.
You're sitting in front of me.
SPEAKER_00 (44:46):
Welcome to hell, Detective Braun.
uh...
This is the birth descent.
SPEAKER_02 (00:48):
On early Sunday morning, July 23, 1967, tragedy
(01:11):
struck what many are calling theDetroit Riots.
SPEAKER_01 (01:48):
Mother Lorelei, it's our son.
The way you name him, mother.
SPEAKER_05 (01:53):
Father Horace, he should take after your kin.
So it shall be, mother.
Hi, child.
You will be Herman.
Herman Edward.
After your uncle on yourfather's side.
SPEAKER_00 (02:09):
This is the secret.
You won't remember ourintroduction, but we will be
reacquainted in the future.
(02:37):
You arrive at the time of thegreat germination, the tumor
swelling.
But so be now.
Remember the words and ourdominion.
I bet you for a win.
SPEAKER_03 (03:31):
This is your brother, Herman.
Barbarleen, you put that dolldown and hug your brother.
He stinks.
Why are his eyes like that?
His eyes are still getting usedto the light.
You're six now, so you won'tremember.
But your eyes were dark atfirst, too.
SPEAKER_05 (03:51):
Mother, I need to take the pup to the
veterinarian.
He's fallen ill.
SPEAKER_03 (03:57):
Oh, no.
Why, he was just outside playingwith Barb earlier.
I saw him playing over by someplants with white flowers.
I must have thrown the ball tooclose.
SPEAKER_01 (04:09):
It's probably that goddamn hemlock.
It's spreading faster than I canburn it down.
SPEAKER_03 (04:15):
It's called hemlock?
SPEAKER_05 (04:19):
That's right, little sister, and you behave and steer
clear of it.
This is the first.
SPEAKER_02 (04:49):
It is January 27th, 1973 with the signing of the
Paris Peace Accords ending theVietnam War.
SPEAKER_03 (05:33):
you see that Herman poor thing died how do you know
because I'm 12 and you're halfmy age and I know way more than
you does it look like it'smoving no it looks so scared of
(05:53):
course it was scared animals arestupid they have no idea what's
happening to them it'sEspecially when it wasn't...
natural.
What do you mean, natural?
You're a real doofus, aren't ya?
(06:14):
Most things die on their own.
Why do things...
die?
I don't know.
It's just the way it is.
Every living thing dies.
Including people.
Oh, are you going to cry?
It's sad.
(06:35):
You feel different about it onceyou see what is inside.
Inside?
Yeah, like the inside of thatsquirrel.
It's all red and squishy.
Barb, how do you know what thatlooks like?
SPEAKER_05 (07:00):
Oh, little brother.
I'll show you.
(07:41):
Get away from us, you freak.
If I see you again, I'll killyou.
I go to school here.
We have math together.
What?
What did you say, freak?
(08:01):
Hey, hey, Stanley, get off ofhim.
Shit, let's
SPEAKER_04 (08:04):
go, boys.
Oh, my goodness.
Herman, are you okay?
Let me help you up.
Herman! Herman!
SPEAKER_05 (08:43):
That's right.
You remember.
I haven't spoken to you sinceyou came into this world.
But I've been watching you.
Even when you're hiding in theUndergrowth, I can see you.
Watching me?
Yes.
(09:03):
It is unfortunate that thisreunion will be brief.
Do you see the other...
SPEAKER_00 (09:13):
The
SPEAKER_05 (09:14):
other?
Your relation, sibling.
My sister?
UNKNOWN (09:23):
Yes.
SPEAKER_05 (09:25):
Behold your enemy.
Clyde has ingested her toxicant.
He will now slumber amongst theloam.
SPEAKER_03 (09:36):
Barbara! Herman?
I saw what that piece of shitdid to you at school.
Couldn't let him get away withit.
SPEAKER_05 (09:45):
The other avenged you, Herman.
Remember these words.
Detritus.
Con immaculatum.
Conduit.
Ophidian weeping.
(10:13):
Herman, do you know what theseare?
She's taken her fashion dollsand melted their faces.
Do you see any resemblance?
They look like me and yourmother.
Do you know anything about this?
You two have become thick asthieves.
SPEAKER_03 (10:26):
Horace, he doesn't know anything.
Let him be.
SPEAKER_02 (10:30):
Well, she's caused enough trouble.
Going away is the best thing
SPEAKER_05 (10:36):
for her.
Mother, what does he mean, goingaway?
Your sister needs help, and wefound a place that can give her
that.
She's disturbed, son.
I know you're close to her, butwe can't trust her with you.
You deserve a chance at afuture.
A future?
SPEAKER_02 (11:03):
With more information on the case, I'm
going to hand it over to thelead investigator, Detective
Norman Wallace.
Laddie?
Chief.
SPEAKER_05 (11:14):
Right here?
I don't care.
I'm going anyway.
Thank
SPEAKER_02 (11:19):
you for coming today.
SPEAKER_05 (11:21):
First off, I want to personally thank the agencies
SPEAKER_02 (11:24):
involved that are assisting
SPEAKER_05 (11:25):
us with this case.
The Pennsylvania State Policeand the Federal Bureau of
Investigation.
I also want to thank the peopleof Philadelphia.
We've received over 17,000 tipsand conducted over 250
interviews.
To recap this case, On November13th at 11.58 p.m., we received
(11:46):
a report that an unconsciousperson lay face down in the
front yard of a resident ofDrexel Hill in the Upper Darby
Township.
17th District Police respondedand found a male victim with
fatal wounds which areconsistent with the
SPEAKER_02 (12:00):
previous two victims.
Due to the pattern and thehedonistic nature of the crimes,
we've classified the suspect asa serial killer
SPEAKER_05 (12:10):
who is dangerous at large.
remained undisclosed out ofrespect for their families.
What I will share is that themale victim was a local actor
from whom the killer seemed tohave a...
fixation.
Now, we have a lead in thesedetails we will share.
(12:33):
Officer Leobron discovered aplastic doll's head hidden in
the grass near the victim.
Within the doll's head wasetched a message.
Forever mine.
I believe this was written andemphasizes a particular
obsession towards the victim.
Now,
SPEAKER_02 (12:51):
uh, I'll take questions.
Uh, you.
Uh, yes, Martin Bruin with thePhilly Sojourner.
Has the police department comeup with a nickname for the
serial killer?
My focus is on catching thekiller.
I'll leave the responsibility ofnicknames to all of you.
The Cupid Killer has a nice ringto it.
For the proof as to why no onereads the Sojourner.
(13:13):
Okay, thank you for your time.
SPEAKER_05 (14:28):
Congratulations, son.
A high school graduate.
Your dad would have been soproud.
Thank you.
Mother, I wish he was here.
Barb, too.
Yes, we both wish that.
When she escaped from theclinic...
Mom, it's okay.
I would have thought we'd hearfrom her by now.
(14:52):
But this is your day tocelebrate.
When we get home...
I made your favorite, shoe flypie.
Oh, well, Mother, my friends andI were going to Barry's Diner,
if that's okay.
Oh, well, of course.
I do hope I'll see you tonightso we can celebrate.
Yes, Mother.
Thank you.
(15:13):
Well, congrats, boys.
Raise your root beers.
SPEAKER_02 (15:16):
Hey, would you guys be interested in seeing the new
Brock Gatling movie?
It's supposed to be awesome.
Critics are saying it's like oneof the best movies of the year.
No way.
Nothing can beat Back to theFuture.
Dude, quit living in the past.
That was like last
SPEAKER_05 (15:28):
year.
This is 1986, not 85.
I appreciate the offer.
I'm one of Willie Topaz'sbiggest fans, but I'm supposed
to go home after this.
My mom made shoofly pie.
What?
What the hell is shoofly pie?
What?
SPEAKER_03 (15:43):
It's made from molasses, brown sugar, and
water.
It's disgusting.
But this knucklehead loves it.
Barb?
Hey, little brother.
Sorry, boys.
We have some catching up to do.
Herman is coming with me.
SPEAKER_05 (16:03):
I...
I am?
SPEAKER_00 (16:04):
This is the passage.
Exodus...
SPEAKER_05 (16:16):
You, you look so different.
SPEAKER_03 (16:19):
I won't lie to you, little brother.
I didn't just lose weight for myhealth.
I needed to hide and play insight.
Needed to?
When there's a manhunt for youin three different counties.
Yeah.
A manhunt?
Oh, Herman, stop pretending.
(16:39):
You can't be that naive.
This has always been the workthat has been set out for us.
SPEAKER_05 (16:46):
I don't know what you're talking about.
SPEAKER_03 (16:50):
Yes, you do.
You can pretend with everyoneelse, but don't lie to me.
The dead raccoons behind ourhouse, the neighbor's dog that
went missing, your trophy ofrodent ears buried by the lake.
SPEAKER_05 (17:08):
You know about that?
SPEAKER_03 (17:09):
Of course I do, little brother.
It always builds.
You haven't been ready untiltonight.
Consider this your truegraduation.
SPEAKER_05 (17:24):
Wait, where are you taking me?
The
SPEAKER_03 (17:28):
Bellevue in downtown.
SPEAKER_05 (17:29):
And why are we going there?
SPEAKER_03 (17:32):
Because the actor, Willie Topaz, is staying there.
You know him?
SPEAKER_05 (17:38):
Yeah.
Yeah.
Brock Gatling, Archie Magnet.
I'm like one of his biggestfans, but how do you know where
he'd be staying?
SPEAKER_03 (17:48):
That took some doing, let me tell you.
Let's just say if you'reconvincing enough, you get the
answers you need.
He's been avoiding me for thebetter part of a year.
He has no idea...
He will be my piece deresistance.
SPEAKER_05 (18:10):
But why?
SPEAKER_03 (18:11):
That is the last one.
Stop fucking pretending, Herman.
You know as well as I do, thisis part of who you are.
This act.
The Boy Scout.
It's not you.
Society calls us monsters, but Isay, we're evolved.
(18:34):
A civilized society?
Hmph.
All I see are millions ofmarionettes.
I've cut the strings, and sowill you.
I'm doing what I do because theywere the skills given to me.
And I'm good at it.
Nothing so noble or virtuous assome sort of higher calling.
(18:55):
It is simply what I do, withintense and dangerous
animalistic focus.
That is what you and I are, notso far removed from the beasts
that came before us.
If we instill fear in them, it'sbecause everyone fears what they
don't understand.
(19:15):
But their fear is not whatdrives us.
You and I both know that whatpropels us is no different than
what drives a cheetah to stalk agazelle.
Signs of prey, their movement,their scent.
and this unquenchable thirst fortheir undeniable end.
It's important for you tounderstand this, Herman, and to
(19:40):
finally put aside the act.
Because after tonight, the worldwill know who I am.
And it's time to take the showon the road.
I don't know if we'll ever seeeach other again.
I need to know that you finallycome into your own.
(20:01):
That you can survive and thatyou'll finally give in to being
true to who and what you reallyare.
Please tell me, you know it tobe true?
SPEAKER_05 (20:15):
Yes, sister.
It is true.
I always thought Omni would tellme when there was a green light
to change.
But He hasn't.
Did he tell you?
There
SPEAKER_03 (20:35):
you go again with this omni-nickname.
Is that your mask?
SPEAKER_05 (20:41):
No, he's my friend.
My oldest friend.
Not a mask.
I thought he would give me thesign.
I've been too afraid to do it onmy own.
SPEAKER_03 (20:57):
After tonight...
You won't be.
Now time to get into character.
Hi, little brother.
Is
SPEAKER_05 (21:14):
that his blood?
Yes, I did it.
He's forever with me now.
Herman.
Herman.
I'm not sure when and if we'llmeet again, but you can be free
now.
(21:35):
Where will you go?
As far as I can without gettingcaught.
I'll see you, Herman.
SPEAKER_00 (21:45):
Say goodbye, Herman.
Goodbye.
This is the fall.
The chrysalis.
SPEAKER_05 (22:57):
He walks down Mount Vernon Street towards her
apartment.
I'm waiting inside.
Here she comes.
(23:20):
It won't be much longer now.
Time to get into character.
(23:53):
Seventh floor.
I can hear it.
Rising.
SPEAKER_02 (24:20):
Hey, Holly, hey.
Just walk by your place and thedoor is open.
SPEAKER_04 (24:23):
What?
Thanks, Mark.
SPEAKER_02 (24:27):
Yeah, you
SPEAKER_05 (24:28):
can never be too safe around here.
Not in this
SPEAKER_04 (24:45):
city.
Hello?
(25:08):
Jesse, did you come by theapartment?
Because we talked about that.
You're supposed to let me know.
Because the door is open and youwere the only one who had a key.
Okay.
Okay.
Well, I know I locked up beforeleaving.
(25:28):
Sorry.
Hello?
Okay.
Rude.
What?
(25:55):
Hello?
Hello?
UNKNOWN (26:10):
Hello?
SPEAKER_01 (26:43):
The city of Philadelphia has issued a formal
apology for research experimentsconducted decades ago on inmates
at Holmesburg Prison.
City officials say theUniversity of Pennsylvania
conducted the experiments fromthe 1950s to the 1970s.
The vast majority of thoseexposed to viruses, asbestos,
and other toxins were people ofcolor attempting to make bail.
(27:06):
The city says it was wrong toexploit the vulnerable.
SPEAKER_05 (27:16):
Hey, big sister.
Oh, little brother.
Not so little anymore.
It's been a while.
Yes, it has.
I barely recognized you.
Unfortunately, I've had a returnto form.
They don't offer jazzercisehere.
(27:40):
I can't stay long.
I just wanted to see you.
See how you were doing in here.
It's one of the worst prisons inthe country.
But I found some kindredspirits.
A fellow inmate?
No, there's a doctor thatvisits.
(28:01):
He seems keen on interviewing mein regards to my talent for
making lethal concoctions.
He plans on conducting a fewexperiments at the prison.
I may even get to assist.
So even here, you can't...
We can't change who we are,brother.
(28:22):
No.
I know that all too well.
You do.
So you've won a few trophiesduring your competitions?
Yes.
Several, in fact.
And I've gone on the road to...
(28:44):
Compete.
SPEAKER_02 (28:52):
You got one minute.
SPEAKER_05 (28:55):
One minute to say everything we need to say and
our goodbyes.
I'll visit again.
Oh, little brother.
Still naive.
I doubt by the time you return,I'll still be alive.
The powers that be seek thedeath penalty.
(29:16):
They seem to think that's what Ideserve.
Capital punishment, they callit.
It almost sounds like anachievement.
The first since 1976.
What a wonderful way to ring inthe 90s.
So, this is goodbye?
(29:40):
Just do me one favor.
You remember the name of thedetective?
Wallace.
No, he died.
Not by my hands, unfortunately.
The other one.
Detective...
Braun.
Leo Braun.
Out of Pittsburgh.
That's the one.
(30:01):
He's the dutiful son who foundmy first doll.
I'm...
Intimately familiar with him.
My most recent competition inPittsburgh.
He's been an avid spectator.
He'd make a nice trophy.
(30:24):
Don't you think?
Yes.
Yes, he would.
SPEAKER_02 (30:50):
of me today.
Now between December of 92 andFebruary 93, four bodies were
found along a quarter milestretch of Geneva on the lake.
All four victims were youngwomen in their 20s.
Their bodies were found within aquarter mile stretch of the
beach.
SPEAKER_05 (31:07):
They were all bound at the feet or ankles and had
their left ears and internalorgans removed.
SPEAKER_02 (31:14):
We've just learned that the injuries suffered by
the victims match the M.O.
of several murders spread allover the Midwest.
We also have our
SPEAKER_05 (31:23):
first description of a possible suspect, a fisherman
whose boat ran ashore at around10.47 p.m., observed what he
described as a male,
SPEAKER_02 (31:32):
early 20s, thin and pale with black hair, lingering
over the spot where we found thelast of our four victims,
Susanna
SPEAKER_05 (31:41):
Cartwright.
A fisherman felt that he hadspooked a male who proceeded to
take off once he was spotted.
A
SPEAKER_02 (31:48):
facial composite is being constructed and we plan to
circulate that by this evening.
UNKNOWN (32:06):
This is the door.
SPEAKER_02 (32:46):
There's
SPEAKER_05 (32:52):
nowhere to go.
Just come peacefully.
It's over.
You can't stop me, DetectiveBraun.
Herman, climb to the ledge.
SPEAKER_02 (32:59):
Herman, stop! Don't do it, Herman.
I'll be forced to shoot.
SPEAKER_05 (33:12):
Good.
Now all you have to do is jump.
It's a long way down.
This is your path.
Just open the door.
You need only to lean.
SPEAKER_02 (33:29):
Herman, freeze!
SPEAKER_05 (33:31):
Goodbye, Omni.
On the contrary, Herman.
This is not the end.
Now, jump.
SPEAKER_02 (33:42):
Herman, stop! Hey, Mr.
(34:13):
Coxland, you with us?
SPEAKER_05 (34:16):
Where?
Where am I?
We'll get to that.
Can you give me a name, please?
My name?
Herman.
Full name, including yourmiddle, if you have one.
Herman Edward Coxland.
And what's your name?
I'm Stanley.
(34:37):
Stanley Mattress.
They call me an onboarding
SPEAKER_02 (34:39):
specialist, but I prefer the job titled caseworker
myself.
How are you feeling, Herman?
SPEAKER_05 (34:45):
I actually feel good.
I feel light.
Weightless.
I can't be sure because my headis a little foggy, but I'm
pretty sure I was shot by apolice officer moments ago.
It was about 22 hours ago,actually.
And yes, you were shot.
(35:07):
In the head.
Do you remember why?
Oh, I killed so many.
That's right.
Do you know where you are?
I'm not in jail or imprisoned.
It's not an emergency room.
I doubt this is heaven.
(35:28):
Yeah, no, there was never anychance of that.
You are in hell.
You're a sinner.
Having committed many murdersduring life.
Is Omni here?
I'm afraid I don't know who thatis.
Wishful thinking.
Maybe you can help me withsomething that has always
(35:50):
puzzled me, Mr.
Mattress.
The seven deadly sins.
Yeah?
What about them?
Murder isn't one of them.
Murder, taking the life ofanother, is
SPEAKER_02 (36:03):
considered a mortal sin, Hermann.
Assignment?
Assignment?
SPEAKER_05 (36:36):
What is it?
SPEAKER_02 (36:37):
You are to report to the cave immediately.
I don't have any other furtherinformation to impart.
SPEAKER_05 (36:43):
I'm to report to a
SPEAKER_02 (36:46):
cave?
It's called the Mallee Bulge,but most people just refer to it
as the cave.
SPEAKER_05 (36:54):
Where is this cave?
Funny you should ask.
I have a map.
(37:42):
Mr.
Coxland.
Yes?
Who are you?
Oh.
Names.
Tell me, Herman, does your nameencapsulate who you are?
No.
Far from it.
Then, what should I call you?
I see your point.
(38:04):
Ah, the point...
is that I can help you, Herman.
What would you say if I couldgrant you the vengeance you
seek?
Do I seek vengeance?
Maybe not yet until you hear thename.
What name?
(38:26):
Leo Braun.
Yes, I do seek vengeance againsthim.
Well, what if I told you thatsoon I will have made it so that
you can?
Exact revenge on him.
Here, in hell.
(38:47):
And unlike where you come from,there would be no consequences.
Is Omni helping you?
Omni?
I'm afraid I'm not familiar withthe one you call, uh...
What I can tell you is that youwill have your vengeance.
(39:12):
In time.
For now, you must be patient.
And when the time is right, youwill attend orientation.
What is orientation?
Ah, it helps you with theLeopold Lab.
Provides guidelines, the ruleswe must follow.
Typically, a new arrival will begiven an assignment.
SPEAKER_02 (39:35):
Something like a job.
SPEAKER_05 (39:38):
But this is not for you.
You will live here with me.
I will teach you everything thatI know and then, when Detective
Braun has joined us, you willmeet him face to face.
How you go about enacting yourretribution will be entirely up
(39:59):
to you.
My hope is this will help.
It's...
It's beautiful.
A lethal dagger, consecrated byAsmodeus.
Forged in the first of thefires.
(40:19):
A combination of Beelzebub'sbone and ore.
Mined from the deepest regionsof the Netherworld.
The dagger was once known as theOrabus Grim.
It is yours to wield.
(40:39):
Thank you.
I've never seen anything likeit.
There are few who have.
It devours souls.
And it is yours to keep.
Why are you helping me?
will stage the great battle ofour time.
(41:00):
And you will play a part in itsimpetus.
You have questions, and Iendeavor to answer them.
Have patience, Herman.
There are many rooms within thecave and accommodations.
Let's get you settled.
May I ask, through the glassthere, there's something behind
(41:22):
it.
I can hear it.
Ah, once a great demon, now aloyal pet.
A giant most gentle, but yetpowerful.
SPEAKER_00 (41:39):
I will,
SPEAKER_05 (41:41):
um, show you what it's for.
In time.
Until then, patience andlearning.
to know much her and manysecrets.
(43:00):
Is that you?
It is.
Although in a different phase.
Different than before.
I thought I may never hear fromyou again.
I will always be with you,Herman.
UNKNOWN (43:24):
In life and in death.
SPEAKER_05 (43:31):
Do...
Do you have words for me, Omni?
(44:23):
Leo Braun?
Yeah, I'm Leo.
Herman, it's very good to meetyou.
You're sitting in front of me.
SPEAKER_00 (44:46):
Welcome to hell, Detective Braun.
uh...
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